Haunani sits down with the unstoppable Dr. Haley Parker, DAOM, L.Ac., and Director for Community Outreach and Partnership for VUIM, for a raw, no‑filter dive into what it really takes to push acupuncture forward in a healthcare system that doesn’t always play nice. From “falling forward” in their careers to battling legislative roadblocks, building community from the ground up, and redefining balance in a profession that demands everything, these two pull back the curtain on the grit, passion, and purpose driving acupuncture in the United States in 2026. It’s candid, energizing, and it asks, “what will your legacy be?” If you’re an acupuncturist, a student, a patient, or just curious about the heartbeat behind holistic and integrative medicine, this conversation will remind you behind every needle is a practitioner who deeply cares about reducing suffering in this world and that vision is carried out in many ways. Afterall, not all peacekeepers are quiet meditators. Listen in on two practitioners who are stirring the pot, uplifting their profession, and building bridges for others.

Dr. Haley Parker, DAcCHM, L.Ac., Dipl. EAM is a licensed Doctor of East Asian Medicine practicing across Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., New Mexico, Florida, Georgia, New York, and New Jersey. As Director of Community Outreach and Partnerships at VUIM since 2021, she has been leading clinic administration, academic integration, and outreach programs across multiple campuses. A former Division I athlete and expert in sports-related and emotional health, Haley has over 15 years of clinical, educational, and advocacy experience. She serves on the National Certification Board for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (NCBAHM) Professional Ethics & Disciplinary Committee, the Virginia Board of Medicine Acupuncture Advisory Committee, and the Acupuncture Society of Virginia Board. Passionate about teaching, community engagement, and promoting East Asian Medicine through patient care, media, and publications, she is dedicated to advancing integrative medicine and empowering the next generation of practitioners.

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Show Notes & Shoutouts

Acupuncture Society of Virginia Get Involved

Virginia University of Integrative Medicine

VUIM Clinic in Virginia, New Jersey, Georgia - Mention hearing “Dr. Haley Parker on Yinspired podcast” to receive a discount on your next treatment.

IG: @vuimclinic

FB: Virginia University of Integrative Medicine Clinic

Dr. Lixing Lao, PhD

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Dr. Haley Parker

00:23 - Context of the advocacy efforts around dry needling legislation in Virginia, defining education standards

02:36 - The difference between dry needling and acupuncture explained

04:31 - The emotional and human side of advocacy work05:16 - How practitioners can get involved locally and the impact of community action

06:37 - The value of authentic leadership and collaboration

07:28 - Advocacy as a professional duty and the importance of unity among practitioners

16:44 - The ongoing fight for recognition in the healthcare field and the need for proactive strategies

17:42 - The importance of understanding and supporting each other across different backgrounds

19:15 - How to bridge gaps within the profession and beyond

20:55 - The bigger picture: integrating Chinese medicine into mainstream healthcare

22:14 - The collective impact of practitioners and the importance of unity

23:43 - The future of holistic healthcare and the role of acupuncturists

25:15 - Embracing diversity, authenticity, and personal growth in the profession

28:47 - Reflecting on legacy, service, and leaving a meaningful imprint

31:16 - Closing thoughts: get involved, stay inspired, and make a difference

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