Yinspired

Celebrating different perspectives in Chinese Medicine & Integrative Medicine
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Celebrating different perspectives in Chinese Medicine & Integrative Medicine. Exploring life, healing, and medicine through the lens of yin and yang. Uplifting yin in a yang-centric world. Shifting paradigms in healing and medicine one conversation at a time. yinspired.substack.com

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Acupuncture & Money

    If charging for your healing work feels hard, this episode will flip the script on value, confidence, and getting paid. In this Yinspired conversation, Linh Taylor, L.Ac., and I, crack open the messy, tangled relationship between money and being a healer in the 21st century. We explore why so many practitioners struggle to charge for their work, how pay disparities in the field can feel downright insulting, and what it really takes to build a sustainable practice without selling your soul. Together, we explore the power of relationships and word‑of‑mouth, the realities of insurance, and the legal and structural foundations every acupuncturist, and healer, needs to protect themselves. Linh shares her personal insights on why new practitioners thrive when they start in established clinics, how marketing becomes effortless when it’s simply storytelling, and why specific patient reviews matter more than you think. We dive into boundaries, money beliefs, long‑term financial planning, and the truth that practicing more—hands on, in real life—is what builds confidence and transforms patient outcomes, not more continuing education classes. This episode is a grounded, heart‑opening reminder that success in acupuncture, and any healing profession, is personal, relational, and absolutely possible when you stop shrinking and start owning the value of your unique gifts, talents, and trust in the medicine. Do you have something to add to this conversation?  Go to Yinspiredpod.com and to leave your kind comments, questions, and keep the conversation going. Enjoying Yinspired? Please remember to share a favorite episode with someone you love and subscribe to Yinspired wherever you listen. If you could leave a five-star review and rating that would help others find Yinspired. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry. Links to all episode show notes, guests' bios and work, and transcripts can be found at Yinspired.substack.com/podcast Connect with Dr. Linh Taylor, DTCM and Dry Needling Pelvic Health specialist at JavaAcupuncture.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit yinspired.substack.com

    1h 50m

  2. 1 MAR

    Ep24: Soup is Generational Medicine w/Lisa Tong

    In this episode of Yinspired, Dr. Haunani Chong-Drake, DACM, engages in a heartfelt conversation with Lisa Tong, known as The Chinese Soup Lady. They explore the intersection of Chinese Medicine, cultural identity, and the creative process of healing through food. Lisa shares her journey from engineering and a corporate background, to embracing her authentic self as a Chinese Medicine practitioner, emphasizing the importance of generational wisdom and healing through cooking soups and teas. The discussion highlights the significance of yin and yang, empowerment through self-observation, and the role of food in nourishing the body and mind. Lisa shares some of her favorite tea and soup recipes (all linked in the Show Notes section below), including how to simplify meal preparation for busy lifestyles. Do you have something to add to this conversation?  Go to Yinspiredpod.com and to leave your kind comments, questions, and keep the conversation going. This is the only place to interact with the Yinspired host and guests. Enjoying Yinspired? Please remember to share a favorite episode with someone you love and subscribe to Yinspired wherever you listen. If you could leave a five-star review and rating on Apple Podcast, that would help others find Yinspired. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry. Links to all episodes show notes, guests' bios and work, and transcripts can be found at Yinspiredpod.com Chapters 01:25 Lisa Tong: The Journey of the Soup Lady 05:01 The Creative Process of Identity 07:30 Generational Wisdom and Empowerment through Food 14:28 Formal Training in Traditional Chinese Medicine 23:59 Bridging Eastern and Western Medicine 28:37 Embracing Asian Identity and Cultural Heritage 30:46 The Yin-Yang of Life and Healing 34:57 Redefining Healing Beyond Traditional Medicine 38:22 Integrating Chinese Medicine into Everyday Life 41:31 Simplifying Chinese Soups for Beginners 42:16 Adapting Recipes for Dietary Preferences 46:19 Understanding Food Properties in Chinese Medicine 48:53 Self-Assessment of Body Temperature and Health 55:14 Balancing Foods for Seasonal Changes 58:26 Utilizing Modern Cooking Appliances 59:38 Frequency and Timing of Consuming Healing Soups 01:01:23 Beauty from Within: Nourishing the Skin 01:08:07 Nourishing the Yin: Internal Moisturization 01:09:57 The Power of Black Foods for Women’s Health 01:12:47 Understanding Dampness and Its Effects 01:22:04 Rapid Fire Insights: Wisdom and Reflections - the science behind why Chinese Medicine tells us to drink warm water. I’d love to hear from you. Please share your comments, questions, or thoughts HERE. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit yinspired.substack.com

    1h 9m

  3. 15 FEB

    Ep23: Collective Reconciliation in Medicine, Healthcare, and Integrative Medicine

    Yinspiredpod.com Welcome to season 2 of Yinspired, where we explore the messy truths of medicine, healthcare, Chinese medicine, and healing in today’s world. Today’s episode is a solo episode where I reflect on the current energetic landscape of 2026. This episode invites us to reflect deeply, own our roles, honor cultural roots, and stand tall as healers and ambassadors of diverse medicines. Key Topics in today’s episode: * The significance of the fire horse year and its Yang energy impact. * Reflection on healing, reconciliation, and cultural practices in 2026. * The importance of making amends for personal and collective healing. * The role of Chinese medicine and other cultural practices in filling healthcare gaps. * Navigating infighting, appropriation, and cultural harm within medicine, the healthcare system, integrative medicine, and Chinese Medicine. * Personal vulnerability and the call for healers to stand tall and be proud. * The importance of self-reflection, owning our patterns, and working with yin-yang balance. * The future of inclusivity and diversity in healthcare systems. Links to all episode show notes, guests' bios and work, and transcripts can be found at Yinspiredpod.com Chapters 00:00 - Introduction of Yinspired 01:32 - The significance of spring and the solar new year in East Asian wisdom 2:38 - Reflection on launching season two and the journey of podcasting 7:05 - Upcoming themes: mindset shifts, cultural healing, racism in medicine 9:38 - Sharing vulnerabilities: anxiety, collective urgency, and personal activism 20:38 - Chinese astrology insights: the fire horse year and personal charts 24:16 - Recognizing patterns of discordance and awakening in times of upheaval 33:28 - The healer archetype: caring, reducing suffering, and cultural stewardship 42:33 - The gaps in healthcare and the potential of Chinese medicine to fill them 45:23 - The ongoing reconciliation within Chinese medicine amidst challenges 48:44 - Moving beyond rebranding: honoring the roots and origins of cultural medicines 51:29 - Learning from marginalized, colonized, and resilient cultures 54:15 - Transformation as a messy, nonlinear process requiring collective effort 60:51 - The need to get real and truthful about internal and professional patterns 73:25 - Embracing diversity in medicine: the more beautiful, just, and radiant world we envision 76:53 - The importance of giving credit and avoiding theft or misappropriation 78:18 - Our responsibility to listen deeply, learn from marginalized peoples, and take action 86:15 - The collective discomfort in times of upheaval and the power of honest reflection 89:14 - Moving beyond blame: taking responsibility for our part in patterns of harm 90:20 - The brilliance of the Chinese medicine field and its potential to lead with integrity 91:17 - The role of practitioners in civic leadership and cultural preservation 97:14 - Inner reflection as a yin act of service—how purpose and work calm anxiety 98:12 - Owning your unique voice and the beauty of standing out in service of medicine 100:07 - Invitation to connect as a guest or collaborator to continue sharing diverse perspectives I’d love to hear from you. Please share your comments, questions, or thoughts at Yinspiredpod.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit yinspired.substack.com

    1h 21m

  4. 1 FEB

    Ep22: The Spirit of Pelvic Health w/Dr. Krystal Couture, DPT, L.Ac.

    Summary Pelvic health is so much more than anatomy—it’s a living dialogue between the physical body, our emotions, thoughts, spiritual journeys, and the deeper stories we carry. In this episode, Dr. Krystal Couture, DPT, L.Ac., reminds us that healing happens when we slow down, listen inward, connect with Spirit, and honor the wisdom of our bodies. From the emotional resonance of acupuncture points to the way breath links our respiratory and pelvic diaphragms, we explore how the body holds experiences—and how slow, sustainable medicine can help release them. We talk openly about sexual health, aging as a natural seasonal change, and why perimenopause deserves compassion rather than pressure to “push through” or “put up” with symptoms. As hormones shift and symptoms like brain fog, hot flushes, or vaginal dryness arise, acupuncture and Chinese Medicine offer real-time tested individualized support. This episode is an invitation to reclaim pelvic health as a personal, embodied journey—one shaped by curiosity, care, and deep self‑connection. Special Offer for Yinspired listeners: Receive a $100 discount to the Advanced Certificate, Pelvic Care Practicals or Online bundle. Go to this episode's Show Notes at Yinspiredpod.com to claim your discount. Do you have something to add to this conversation? Go to Yinspiredpod.com and to leave your kind comments, questions, and keep the conversation going. This is the only place to interact with the Yinspired host and guests. Enjoying Yinspired? Please remember to share a favorite episode with someone you love and subscribe to Yinspired wherever you listen. If you could leave a five-star review and rating on Apple Podcast, that would help others find Yinspired. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry. Links to all episode show notes, guests' bios and work, and transcripts can be found atYinspired.substack.com/podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Yinspired and Pelvic Health 02:46 Exploring the Spirit of Acupuncture Points 05:52 Biopsychosocial Perspective on Pelvic Health 08:38 Connection Between Breath and Pelvic Health 11:26 The Role of Emotions in Physical Health 14:37 Understanding the Interplay of Physical and Emotional Healing 17:40 The Importance of Sexual Health in Pelvic Health 20:36 Navigating the Journey of Pelvic Health 23:27 The Impact of Aging on Pelvic and Sexual Health 26:18 The Role of Practitioners in Supporting Clients 29:28 The Concept of Seasons in Life and Health 32:26 Differentiating Between Structural and Emotional Issues 35:24 The Importance of Listening to Clients 38:16 The Role of Slow and Sustainable Medicine 41:21 Bringing It All Together: The Holistic Approach 44:13 Conclusion and Future Conversations 56:06 Understanding Seasonal Changes in Pelvic Health 58:46 Navigating Perimenopause: Symptoms and Support 01:01:03 Empowerment Through Self-Connection 01:03:18 The Balance of Work and Well-being 01:05:18 Acupuncture’s Role in Pelvic Health 01:08:09 Self-Care Techniques for Pelvic Health 01:11:31 The Importance of Movement and Joy 01:17:33 Reconnecting with Your Body 01:23:43 Finding Joy in Everyday Life 01:28:40 The Power of Connection and Community This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit yinspired.substack.com

    1h 29m
  5. Ep21: Why New Year's Resolutions Fail - a Yin Yang perspective

    18 JAN

    Ep21: Why New Year's Resolutions Fail - a Yin Yang perspective

    Summary Yinspired’s host, Dr. Haunani Chong-Drake, Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, welcomes listeners to 2026, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal rhythms with the solar-lunar calendar. She encourages listeners to embrace the yin energy of winter as a time for rest and reflection rather than rushing into New Year’s resolutions. Dr. Haunani shares her insights on why New Year’s resolutions often fail, attributing this to the natural rhythms of the seasons and the energy dynamics at play during winter. She also talks about one of the more common New Year’s resolutions, weightloss, through a Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda lens. For lasting results, she focuses on holistic digestion, self-reflection to uncover the true motivations behind personal goals, and emphasizes that health and wellness are not solely defined by body size or weight. By integrating principles from both Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, she offers a comprehensive perspective on digestion, that create lasting results in body, heart, and spirit. Do you have something to add to this conversation?  Go to Yinspiredpod.com and leave your kind comments, questions, and keep the conversation going. This is the only place to interact with the Yinspired host and guests. Enjoying Yinspired? Please remember to share a favorite episode with someone you love and subscribe to Yinspired wherever you listen. If you could leave a five-star review and rating, that would help others find Yinspired. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry. Links to all episode show notes, guests' bios and work, and transcripts can be found at Yinspired.substack.com/podcast Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Yinspired: New Year Reflections 01:33 Aligning with the Solar Lunar Calendar 04:21 The Nature of New Year’s Resolutions 13:00 Weight Loss: Going beyond numbers and scales 30:37 The Key to Lasting Weightloss - Digestion: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual digestion 44:04 Closing Thoughts and Listener Engagement This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit yinspired.substack.com

    42 min

  6. 14/12/2025

    Ep20: Yoga Beyond the Mat w/Catie Oliveira

    Gather ‘round with Catie Oliveira an experienced yoga teacher, teacher trainer, and mom who has been a part of nearly every aspect of the growing Yoga culture in the U.S. for over 20 years. In today’s conversation, we delve into the profound essence of yoga beyond the mat and postures and how “yoga is training for life.” We explore how yoga serves as a deeply spiritual and holistic practice that truly is a guide map for living life in harmony (like Chinese Medicine). The conversation highlights the importance of sthira (effort) and sukham (ease) in both yoga practice and daily life. Stability provides safety, yet joy, surrender, and pleasure are equally vital to our balance and vitality. We get into the distinction between Yoga and Yoga Therapy, performing and guiding a class, and the evolution of yoga teacher trainings in the U.S. underscoring the necessity of self-study for authentic teaching. The episode also touches on the lifelong journey of learning and growth in yoga, where balancing strength and softness is crucial to avoid burnout and as we evolve through different stages of life, our Yoga should evolve with us. Other topics discussed in this episode include: * Yoga is not just about postures; it’s a holistic practice and can be a map for living in balance. * The yoga mat reflects our lives and how we navigate them. * Connection with Self is the ultimate goal of yoga. * The pendulum of rigidity and flexibility affects our well-being. * Yoga needs to be accessible to everyone, but not every class suits all. * Social justice in yoga is about bridging communities and creating inclusivity. * It’s okay to mess up; what matters is the willingness to listen, recognize and feel discomfort, unlearn, and keep showing up. Do you have something to add to this conversation?  Go to Yinspired.substack.com/podcast, find the episode and leave your kind comments, questions, and keep the conversation going. Enjoying Yinspired? Please remember to share a favorite episode with someone you love and subscribe to Yinspired wherever you listen. If you could leave a five-star review and rating on Apple Podcast, that would help others find Yinspired. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry. Links to all episode show notes, guests' bios and work, and transcripts can be found at Yinspired.substack.com/podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Yoga and Holistic Health 03:03 The Essence of Yoga: Beyond the Postures 06:02 Personal Journeys: How Yoga Shapes Lives 08:44 Yoga Teacher Training: A Path to Confidence 11:51 The Evolution of Yoga Practice 14:35 Yoga as a Life Philosophy 17:48 The Role of Flexibility in Yoga 20:43 The Importance of Community in Yoga 23:55 Navigating the Challenges of Yoga Practice 26:47 Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Yoga 40:10 Overcoming Perfectionism in Teaching Yoga 41:56 The Journey from Performance to Authenticity 42:56 The Process of Learning and Teaching Yoga 49:19 Self-Study and Authentic Teaching 49:54 The Role of the Teacher as a Guide 51:30 Connecting with the Self through Yoga 55:12 The Balance of Asana and Philosophy 56:48 Sthira and Sukham: The Balance of Effort and Ease 01:07:25 Applying Balance in Daily Life 01:18:10 The Dance of Stira and Sukha in Relationships 01:23:19 Understanding Yoga Therapy vs. General Yoga 01:27:05 The Importance of Tailored Yoga Practices 01:31:56 Finding Balance in Yoga and Life 01:40:08 Yoga as a Tool for Empowerment and Self-Discovery 01:50:59 Social Justice and Accessibility in Yoga 01:55:15 Reflections on Personal Growth and Community Engagement This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit yinspired.substack.com

    1h 42m

  7. 30/11/2025

    Ep19 Finding Yourself & Success Redefined w/Linh Taylor, L.Ac.

    This casual conversation with Linh Taylor is exactly the conversation I dreamt of having when Yinspired was created. Linh and I had never met before, and when we hung up, it felt like I had known Linh for lifetimes. Our shared love for Chinese Medicine, the philosophy of Yin and Yang, and navigating healing journeys in cultures and systems not built for us created a natural bridge between our differences, showing how ancient wisdom can unite diverse perspectives and stories in modern times. Like a winding conversation on a road trip, we explore the topics of redefining success, challenging beauty standards, simplicity and fulfillment, healing through Yoga, practice management wisdom through the lens of service and community, and provider collaboration as a model of integrative medicine. If you like this episode, please remember to share it with someone who would also enjoy it. Also, please make sure to check out the Show Notes & Shoutouts section at Yinspired.substack.com/podcast, including a listener-only 20% code with Carolyn. Do you have something to add to this conversation?  Leave your kind comments, questions, and keep the conversation going at Yinspired.substack.com/podcast. This is the only place to interact with the Yinspired host and guests. Enjoying Yinspired? Please remember to share a favorite episode with someone you love and subscribe to Yinspired wherever you listen. If you could leave a five-star review and rating on Apple Podcast, that would help others find Yinspired. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry. Links to all episode show notes, guests' bios and work, and transcripts can be found at Yinspired.substack.com/podcast Chapters 00:00 Introductions 02:47 Building Trust and Connection 05:44 Linh Taylor’s Journey into Acupuncture and Wellness 08:48 The Balancing Act of Motherhood and Career 11:49 The Emotional Load of Caregiving 14:49 Redefining Success and Ambition 17:36 Cultural Perspectives on Ambition and Gender 20:35 Finding Fulfillment in Simplicity 23:38 The Joy of Living in the Moment 26:38 Lessons from Parenting a Child with Autism 29:21 Making Decisions and Embracing Imperfection 33:50 The Unexpected Journey to Pelvic Floor Health 39:30 The Transformative Power of Connection 41:05 The Essence of Consciousness in Healing 47:13 Redefining Beauty and Self-Acceptance 55:02 Mentorship and Abundance in Acupuncture Practice 01:07:16 The Power of Personal Connection in Marketing 01:09:44 Understanding Patient Needs and Building Trust 01:12:01 Navigating the Challenges of Practicing Medicine 01:13:50 The Importance of Collaboration in Healthcare 01:18:23 Integrative Approaches to Patient Care 01:23:11 The Future of Healthcare: Teamwork and Trust 01:28:58 Blending Techniques: Dry Needling and Acupuncture This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit yinspired.substack.com

    1h 21m
  8. Ep18: Exploring the Power of Yin in Healing w/Carolyn Sykes

    16/11/2025

    Ep18: Exploring the Power of Yin in Healing w/Carolyn Sykes

    In this episode of Yinspired, Dr. Haunani Chong-Drake, DACM, welcomes Carolyn Sykes, an Acupuncturist from England, to discuss the power of yin in healing. They explore Carolyn’s journey into Chinese medicine, her unique practice of Shiatsu for horses, and the importance of intuition in healing. The conversation delves into the significance of living in harmony with the seasons, the five elements, and how acupuncture can facilitate deep states of meditation. They also discuss the need to bridge Eastern and Western medicine to empower patients and promote holistic health. In this conversation, Haunani and Carolyn Sykes explore the connection between human health and the natural cycles of the seasons. They discuss the importance of aligning personal goals with the seasons, the significance of nourishment, and the balance between yin and yang. They also touch on the societal pressures surrounding self-care and the importance of creating space for rest and reflection. Links to all episode show notes, guests' bios and work, and transcripts can be found at Yinspired.substack.com/podcast Do you have something to add to this conversation?  Head on over to Yinspired.substack.com/podcast, find the episode and leave your kind comments, questions, and keep the conversation going. This is the only place to interact with the Yinspired host and guests. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Yinspired Podcast 02:17 Meet Carolyn Sykes: An International Acupuncturist 04:19 The Journey into Chinese Medicine 06:14 The Power of Yin in Healing 11:45 Connecting with Horses: Shiatsu and Acupuncture 17:30 Intuition and Energy in Practice 23:33 The Role of Stillness in Healing 29:19 Exploring Other Realities and Healing 34:55 Navigating Fear in Healing Practices 35:18 Grounding in the Present Moment 37:53 Family Support and Diverse Beliefs 40:12 The Role of Emotions in Healing 42:40 Understanding the Five Elements 47:35 Living in Harmony with the Seasons 51:44 The Importance of Nourishment 55:37 Balancing Yin and Yang 59:25 The Cycle of Seasons and Health 01:03:11 The Interconnectedness of Elements 01:10:21 Exploring the Elements: Fire and Metal 01:13:41 The Cozy Embrace of Autumn 01:15:49 Slowing Down to Speed Up 01:18:29 The Power of Yin and Rest 01:23:15 Meditation and Presence 01:27:20 Normalizing Spiritual Conversations Enjoying Yinspired? Please remember to share a favorite episode with someone you love and subscribe to Yinspired wherever you listen. If you could leave a five-star review and rating on Apple Podcast, that would help others find Yinspired. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit yinspired.substack.com

    1h 17m
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Celebrating different perspectives in Chinese Medicine & Integrative Medicine. Exploring life, healing, and medicine through the lens of yin and yang. Uplifting yin in a yang-centric world. Shifting paradigms in healing and medicine one conversation at a time. yinspired.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Celebrating different perspectives in Chinese Medicine & Integrative Medicine
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Jennifer Haunani Chong Drake
  • Show Website
    Yinspired