HerbalistS. Alchemists. Healers.

We are co-founders of Apotherie, an herbal apothecary and nursery. We practice elemental herbalism that is informed by ancestral tradition and western sciences. Apotherie combines both spiritual and scientific aspects to their community apothecary. Angela has a career background in neuromuscular rehabilitation, occupational therapy and energy healing. Kevin worked as a nonprofit executive for many years before rediscovering his interest in horticulture and plant medicine. Apotherie began by Kevin creating simple CBD-based formulas and herbal teas for Angela to use in her private practice that centers holistic healthcare and daily wellness. After seeing huge benefits and patient care outcomes, Kevin and Angela grew Apotherie into a small business venture.

How does being Taiwanese/Taiwanese American and/or community ally play a role in your life?

Both of us are Taiwanese-American so our paths have been similar — the immigrant parent story, highly academic childhoods, and stay-on-the-path expectations. We both learned the value of hardwork and perseverance from our parents, but we also strayed from the prescribed path a couple of times. But maybe it’s the independent and entrepreneurial spirit of Taiwanese culture that helps us to keep exploring new ways of living — whether it’s quitting everything to live in a van or quitting everything to work with plants.

If you could teach future generations 1 thing about being Taiwanese/Taiwanese American or Taiwan, what would it be?

Be proud of your heritage without being prideful. Celebrate your community but have an open heart for all. Find the ways your culture is similar to other cultures. Have strong roots so you can branch out. Learn and live all the beautiful traditions; toss the oppressive and toxic ones.

Being Taiwanese-American means you can choose to have the best of both worlds. Speaking two languages gives you more perspective. Having two cultures gives you the opportunity to grow in both directions. In a world that becomes more global, knowing and honoring your heritage is advantageous. The “efficiency economy” makes life fast and fleeting, but being well-rooted gives you a foundation to live at a pace that makes sense for you. Many passed-down traditions follow a more natural and seasonal way of life. Take time to slow down and honor that ancestral knowledge.

What does the future of Taiwanese America look like to you?

We envision an America with greater diversity and successful outcomes for people of color, including those of Taiwanese American heritage. We hope for greater community solidarity to celebrate our heritage. We strive for greater visibility for the Taiwanese American community. There are so many Taiwanese people doing unique and creative work, and it’s amazing to amplify those voices as inspiration for future generations.

Favorite memory of Taiwan/Taiwanese America?

Kevin’s favorite childhood memory of Taiwan is the breakfast sandwiches and crawfishing with Auntie. Angela’s favorite childhood memory is dotting the dragon’s eye at the Dragonboat Festival in Long Beach, CA.

Favorite Taiwanese food?

Kevin loves cua bing (shaved ice) with extra condensed milk. Angela loves spicy stinky tofu.