In this episode of Beyond the Adjustment, Dr. Chad Mykietiuk welcomes chiropractor and CNAC board member Dr. Pip Penrose for a thoughtful conversation about chiropractic, family, practice and authenticity.
Dr. Penrose shares the unusual story of how her chiropractic journey began after experiencing mononucleosis as a teenager. With no previous exposure to chiropractic, she contacted a chiropractor who introduced her to the principles of innate intelligence, listening to the body and supporting its natural ability to function.
That experience changed the direction of her life and eventually led her to study at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. Dr. Penrose discusses navigating the philosophical divisions within the profession during her education while remaining connected to the vitalistic understanding of chiropractic that originally inspired her.
Now in her 21st year of practice, Dr. Penrose reflects on the many forms her career has taken, including working as an independent contractor, opening a practice, buying and selling practices, and eventually creating a home-based family practice.
A major theme of the conversation is the importance of allowing a practice to evolve alongside your life. Dr. Penrose explains why professional success is not simply about building the largest possible practice. Although her previous practice was thriving, its demands were affecting her energy and the time she could give to her family.
Her current practice allows her children and husband to be part of the everyday environment, creating a model that feels more aligned with her values. She encourages chiropractors not to feel permanently committed to the practice model they chose at the beginning of their careers.
Dr. Penrose also shares practical advice for chiropractors who want to build a true family and pediatric practice. Rather than viewing families as a practice-growth strategy, she emphasizes genuine care, clinical confidence and meaningful personal connection.
She discusses the importance of continuing education, helping children feel comfortable before their first visit, communicating with both parents and providing video reports that families can review together at home.
The conversation also explores boundaries, delegation and the challenge of caring deeply without becoming overwhelmed. Dr. Penrose explains how she remains accessible to committed patients while still protecting her family time and maintaining the ability to say no.
Key Takeaways;
Build a practice that supports your life.
A practice can be financially successful and still demand more energy than you are willing to sacrifice. Success should reflect your values, family and season of life.
Authenticity creates connection.
Patients recognize when a chiropractor is genuinely invested in them. Dr. Penrose believes that showing up as the most authentic version of yourself ultimately allows you to serve more effectively.
Your practice is allowed to evolve.
The model that works when you graduate may not be the model that works after marriage, children or changing priorities. Chiropractors should not be afraid to bend, flex and redesign their practices.
Family practice begins with genuine care.
Caring for babies and children should not simply be viewed as a strategy for gaining additional family members as patients. Families feel the difference when the connection is sincere.
Trust is built through small personal touches.
Introductory videos, thoughtful follow-ups and communication designed around the realities of family life can help children and parents feel safe, understood and valued.
Boundaries and service can coexist.
Being available does not mean being available at every moment. Clear boundaries allow chiropractors to serve generously when appropriate without sacrificing their own wellbeing.
Guest Bio
Dr. Pip Penrose is a chiropractor with more than 20 years of practice experience and a member of the Canadian National Alliance for Chiropractic board. Throughout her career, she has worked in several different practice environments and has developed a deeply personal, family-centred approach to chiropractic care.
Her current home-based practice reflects her commitment to authenticity, connection and creating a professional life that supports her role as both a chiropractor and a mother.
