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Your productivity isn’t powered by hustle but by the deeply personal tools you carry in your inner medicine bag.
What helps you feel grounded when everything feels chaotic? What small rituals or comforts help you reset and keep showing up? In this episode, I’m sharing the idea of the inner medicine bag, a collection of items, habits, and practices that support your well-being in ways no planner or productivity hack ever could. I’ll walk you through how mine has changed over the years, from med school to motherhood to where I am now, and how those shifts reflect the different seasons of life.
I’ll also introduce you to the four Catalyst Archetypes (Reflective River, Fervent Flame, Wise Wind, and Resolute Rock) and offer insights into the unique tools each one can lean on to stay grounded, clear, and connected to what really matters. Whether your version includes a playlist, a sticky note, a favorite tea, or something beautifully unexpected, my hope is that this episode gets you thinking about what truly helps you thrive and why giving yourself permission to honor those things matters more than checking another box on your to-do list.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 What Is an Inner Medicine Bag and Why It Matters
03:01 How Your Inner Medicine Bag Evolves Through Life Stages
08:44 Introduction to the Four Catalyst Archetypes
09:04 Reflective River: Tools for Emotional Grounding
11:23 Fervent Flame: Rituals for Energy and Focus
14:14 Wise Wind: Grounding Practices for Visionaries
17:16 Resolute Rock: Finding Lightness and Joy in Structure
20:30 Reframing Self-Care and Creativity as Essential, Not Optional
21:15 Catalyst Question: What Do You Truly Need to Thrive?
Links
Catalyst Archetype Quiz: https://3nb09zv7070.typeform.com/archetype
Catalyst Advantage: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst/#Advantage
"What Kind of Healer Are You"? https://drlarasalyer.com/2024/11/01/episode-136-what-kind-of-healer-are-you-how-to-evolve-your-unique-self-expression/
Connect with Dr. Lara Salyer:
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
Resentment gets a bad rap, but what if it’s actually a guidepost?
This episode is a look inside one of my recent Catalyst Studio mentoring sessions, where a brilliant practitioner found herself loving the work… and hating how it made her feel. Sound familiar? She wasn’t burned out, yet, but the resentment was building. And it wasn’t loud. It was quiet, chronic, and easy to ignore. Until it wasn’t.
We talked through where that resentment was coming from, how it tied to people-pleasing, guilt around pricing, and the belief that overdelivering somehow proves your worth. We named it. We mapped it. And then we got to work.
Inside this episode, I share the tools and scripts I gave her to start protecting her energy and time, without shrinking or apologizing. We talk about boundaries (internal and external), membership models, and why policies aren’t just for your practice… they’re for your passion.
If you’ve been carrying silent resentment, feeling overextended, or struggling to hold your own boundaries, this one’s for you.
Let’s talk about what needs to shift, before burnout makes the decision for you.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Resentment as a Burnout Warning Sign
05:00 The Pressure to Be Liked and Its Hidden Costs
08:13 Scripts for Saying No
10:12 Public vs. Private Boundaries
15:05 Self-Abandonment and Internal Boundaries
16:10 Practicing Discomfort
18:00 How to Spot Quiet Resentment
20:14 Building Structure for Sustainable Care
22:04 Final Reflections and the Catalyst Quiz
Links
https://3nb09zv7070.typeform.com/archetype
https://drlarasalyer.com/shop
https://rightbrainrescue.com/p/membership-magic-design-your-3-tier-functional-medicine-membership-to-grow-and-scale
https://drlarasalyer.com/2025/07/11/episode-154-the-big-comeback-ten-rules-that-changed-my-practice-and-life/
Connect with Dr. Lara Salyer:
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
I’m back with a new season of The Catalyst Way, and I’m not picking up where I left off. I’m starting from a very different place, one shaped by change, growth, and a reminder that joy has to lead the way.
In this episode, I’m sharing why I paused the podcast and what brought me back. A lot has shifted, personally and professionally, and I want to be honest about what that looked like. I’ve been through some big transitions lately, and like many of you, I’ve had to untangle parts of my life that felt stuck so I could reconnect with a sense of creativity and authenticity that feels true to who I am now.
This season, I’m bringing that energy to the podcast. I’m sharing the ten Catalyst Codes I live by, my personal ethos that’s helped me design a more aligned, sustainable way of practicing and mentoring. These aren’t tips or tricks. They’re values that came from lived experience: mistakes, grief, intuition, and a whole lot of unlearning.
What you’ll get is the real me, talking from my home office, maybe with a barking dog in the background, maybe in the same outfit as last week. I’ll be sharing stories from my own life and from the incredible women in my Catalyst Studio, with takeaways that actually make a difference in how you move through your day.
If you’ve been carrying a calendar that doesn’t feel like yours… if you’re craving a new way to work, live, and lead… I hope this season gives you the space to breathe, reflect, and start imagining something better. Let’s get into it!
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Welcome to a New Season of The Catalyst Way
01:50 What Is Time Alchemy
05:02 From Burnout to Creative Mentorship
08:05 What to Expect This Season
12:41 The 10 Catalyst Codes
16:49 Flow Over Hustle
23:32 Catalyst Question: What Stopped Being Fun
24:12 Navigating Personal Transitions
Links
https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst/#Advantage
https://drlarasalyer.as.me/discovery
https://3nb09zv7070.typeform.com/archetype
Connect with Dr. Lara Salyer:
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
I used to dread discovery calls. Before switching to a membership model, I felt like I was constantly chasing patients, trying to get them to use their remaining visits, and repeating myself over and over again. But once I transitioned to a membership model, everything changed. I started attracting patients who were just as enthusiastic as I was about finding the root causes of their health concerns. Instead of feeling like a salesperson, I became a true partner in their healing journey.
Membership works because it’s clear, structured, and provides the ongoing support that functional medicine truly requires. Packages might seem like a simple solution, but they don’t set you—or your patients—up for long-term success. Functional and integrative medicine is complex, and true progress happens with consistency, feedback, and real partnership. That’s why I developed a membership model that serves both me and my patients, and today, I’m sharing exactly how you can do the same.
The process is easier than you think. It starts with identifying how long your patients typically work with you, listing out all the services you provide, and organizing those into structured tiers. When done right, a membership-based practice invites your patients to become co-creators in their own health journey. If you’re tired of the unpredictability of packages and want to build a sustainable, rewarding practice, this episode is for you!
Quotes
Links
Schedule a 20-minute Brainstorm Session: https://drlarasalyer.as.me/discovery
Connect with Lara:
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
A career in functional medicine should feel fulfilling, not exhausting. So how do you build a practice that supports both your patients and your well-being?
I sat down with Lisa McDonald, founder of Integrated Connections, to talk about what it takes to create a sustainable career in personalized medicine. Lisa’s own journey—from struggling patient to industry leader—shaped her passion for helping practitioners find roles that align with their values and prevent burnout. With over 15 years of experience in recruitment, she’s seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities in functional and integrative medicine.
Burnout is a real risk when you care deeply about your work. Lisa and I discuss why setting boundaries and building the right support system is essential, especially for those working with complex, chronically ill patients. We also explore how group visits and collaboration can create better outcomes for both patients and providers.
If you’re thinking about making the leap into functional medicine or looking for ways to protect your energy while doing meaningful work, this episode is for you!
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction
01:14 Transitioning from Conventional to Functional Medicine
02:06 Tips for Building Your Own Practice
03:20 Lisa McDonald’s Journey
07:06 The Impact of Practitioners on Patient Lives
09:02 Importance of Boundaries and Self-Care for Practitioners
11:23 Lisa’s Personal Compass for Well-being
14:41 Embracing Imperfection in Creativity
18:01 Differences Between Burned Out and Thriving Practitioners
23:08 Advice for Burned Out Practitioners
24:23 Tips for Starting Your Own Practice
29:06 The Reality of Starting a Functional Medicine Practice
32:09 Integrating Functional Medicine into Mainstream Healthcare
33:31 Innovative Ideas for Future Healthcare Practices
35:58 Designing Support Systems in Your Practice
38:04 Growth and Demand in Functional Medicine
40:01 The Backend Work of Integrated Connections
42:08 Connecting Childhood Activities to Adult Life
Links
Connect with Lisa McDonald:
Website: https://integratedconnects.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisapmcdonald/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/integratedconnections/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/integratedconnections
Book a Brainstorm Session (Coupon code - PODCAST): https://drlarasalyer.as.me/discovery
Connect with Lara:
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
Trusting your gut in business isn’t magic. It’s a skill you can develop, and once you do, decisions feel clearer, opportunities stand out, and success starts to flow.
I’ve learned firsthand how powerful intuition is for entrepreneurs. Have you ever felt pressured to chase an opportunity that looked great on paper but didn’t sit right with you? I’ve been there. When I was encouraged to start an agency, it seemed like a smart move. But something felt off. So instead of jumping in, I used my 48-hour snooze rule—a simple pause that helps me check in with my intuition. When I came back to the idea, I knew it wasn’t the right path.
Some opportunities may be lucrative, but are they truly aligned? I believe creativity and individuality matter more than rigid systems, and that applies to both medicine and business. Intuition isn’t just a hunch. It’s a skill you can strengthen, just like Oprah Winfrey did when she turned down a major role and built something even bigger.
I’ll share how you can train your intuition to work for you. I’ll walk you through simple practices like journaling and small intuitive risks that build confidence in your decision-making. If you’ve ever second-guessed yourself or felt stuck between logic and instinct, this episode will help you trust yourself more fully and build a business that truly fits you.
Quotes
Links
Book a Brainstorm Session (coupon code PODCAST): https://drlarasalyer.as.me/discovery
Free Micropractice Assessment: https://3nb09zv7070.typeform.com/to/P56ItjWi?typeform-source=drlarasalyer.com
Upcoming Membership Magic workshop: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/dr-lara-salyer-do-ifmcp-14966663375
Connect with Lara:
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
Your brain makes thousands of decisions every day. Why not make the process easier?
In this episode, I share how heuristics, or “life rules” can lighten your cognitive load, simplify daily choices, and free up energy for what actually matters. I’ll walk you through practical shortcuts like the one-touch rule, theme days, and energy matching to help you work with your brain instead of against it. I’ll also share how a simple mindset shift, “everything is art,” transformed my approach to home design and decision-making.
What life rules could help you bring more ease, creativity, and flow into your day?
Quotes
Links
Book a Brainstorm Session: https://drlarasalyer.as.me/discovery
Magic Membership workshop mentioned in this episode:
https://rightbrainrescue.com/p/membership-magic-design-your-3-tier-functional-medicine-membership-to-grow-and-scale
Right Brain Rescue Book: https://www.amazon.com//dp/B08JCKBWK5/
Connect with Lara:
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
How can we, as healthcare professionals, transform portal messaging from a burden into an efficient tool for care? In this episode, I explore how both patients and practitioners can approach portal communication with more clarity and balance.
I share tips for patients to craft concise, actionable messages that respect their provider’s time while ensuring their concerns are addressed. For practitioners, I point out setting boundaries, managing expectations with clear guidelines, and leveraging group visits to reduce message volume.
By rethinking how we use portal messaging, we can protect vital energy and foster a more sustainable healthcare ecosystem for everyone involved!
Quotes
Links
Schedule a 20-minute Brainstorm Session: https://drlarasalyer.as.me/discovery
Visit https://drlarasalyer.com/shop. Direct link to the course: https://rightbrainrescue.com/p/reclamation
Connect with Lara:
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
When I think about how Practice Better could have transformed my practice, I can’t help but wish I’d found it sooner. In this episode, I reflect on the game-changing potential of this intuitive EMR system, and I’m joined by Natalie Mullin, whose background in education and wellness coaching brings fresh insights into how tools like automations and AI charting save time and improve care. What would it mean for your practice if you could focus more on your patients and less on administrative tasks? Together, we explore how technology and community can revolutionize holistic healthcare, supporting both your purpose and your well-being.
Quotes
Links
Connect with Natalie Mullin:
Website: https://practicebetter.io/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/practicebetter
Connect with Lara:
Book a Brainstorm Session with coupon code PODCAST: https://drlarasalyer.as.me/discovery
Discount link for Practice Better, 20% off for 4 months. (This still allows a 14 day free trial on any plan first): https://my.practicebetter.io/?ps_partner_key=MWZiNDBiODNiNjcw&utm_campaign=5824129-Lara+Salyer%27s+Catalyst+Podcast+January+2024+%7C+Partner&utm_source=partner_larasalyer&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_content=Catalyst-Podcast&ps_xid=j0cWM65sRFpWz8&gsxid=j0cWM65sRFpWz8&gspk=MWZiNDBiODNiNjcw#/p/register?pc=LaraSalyer20
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
This year, let’s skip the resolutions and try something more transformative. I’m inviting you to join me in rebranding your year and creating a life that feels more aligned and energizing. In this episode, I’m sharing insights from "The Year in Review and Rebrand Guide”, where we’ll reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and what truly lights you up.
I’ll share my personal journey of navigating burnout, setting boundaries, and finding clarity. Together, we’ll talk about choosing a guiding word for the year, like my mantra for 2025—"magnetic joy"—and crafting self-care habits that actually stick.
If you’re ready to let go of what’s holding you back and step into 2025 with purpose and creativity, this episode is your roadmap. Let’s color outside the lines and make this year your most joyful yet!
Quotes
Links
Book a Brainstorm Session: https://drlarasalyer.as.me/discovery
Year in Review and Rebrand Guide: https://rightbrainrescue.com/p/2024-year-in-review-and-rebrand-guide-722622
Connect with Lara:
Website: https://drlarasalyer.com
The Catalyst Way: https://drlarasalyer.com/catalyst
Instagram: @drlarasalyer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drlarasalyer
Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlarasalyer/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrLaraSalyer
TikTok: @Creativity.Doctor
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
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