Building a successful acupuncture practice requires balancing technical expertise, entrepreneurial vision, and effective management. In this conversation, Heidi Lovie shares practical principles for navigating the challenges of running a business, especially when starting with limited resources.

We discuss the importance of discipline and structure, and the concept of a "business triangle" with three sides: technical skills, entrepreneurial drive, and managerial responsibilities. From strategies like establishing financial cushions to balancing work-life priorities, Heidi offers actionable insights for avoiding burnout and staying resilient through the ups and downs of business. And reminds us that just because we are capable of doing something, it does not mean that we should.

Understanding the legal and business side of running a practice can feel overwhelming for many healers. Michael Taromina brings a wealth of experience in helping acupuncturists navigate these complexities, offering clear and practical insights. With a background in law and a deep engagement with Eastern medicine, he emphasizes the importance of integrating business acumen into practice—not as a separate entity, but as a foundation that supports meaningful healing work.

Michael discusses how healers, often unprepared for the demands of entrepreneurship, can overcome challenges like liability, practice management, and financial planning. He demystifies common concerns, from choosing business structures to ensuring proper insurance coverage, all while stressing that a well-run practice is not only protective but empowering.

A meaning path is shaped by legacy, curiosity, and the drive to make meaningful change. Wahji Kasten’s journey from a chemistry undergraduate to naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist reflects these influences. She now combines the art and science of curiosity and creativity into her practice.

Wahji’s work in public health and with Indigenous communities emphasizes the importance of systems thinking—addressing the interconnectedness of health, environment, and community. The practice of medicine is as much about honoring the wisdom passed down through generations as it is about applying modern techniques. Her perspective on "asking why" is an invitation to dig deeper, exploring not just symptoms but the systems that support well-being.