The Functional Nurse Academy Podcast

This Episode is Brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

 Many foods marketed as “clean,” “natural,” or “high-protein” may not provide the ingredient quality or nutritional value consumers expect. Melissa talks with Functional Nurse Academy graduate Lillian Mueller about evaluating nutrition labels, choosing high-quality protein sources, and incorporating functional ingredients that support women’s nutrition. Lillian also shares how she combined her nursing experience, functional medicine education, and entrepreneurial vision to co-found MÜV+Her, a protein bar brand created specifically for women. This conversation offers practical nutrition guidance while showing functional nurses how their expert...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

In today's episode I sit down with Dr. Peter McCullough, MD, MPH, to discuss what functional nurses need to know about COVID-19, vaccine injury, and persistent spike protein. Dr. McCullough explains his approach to evaluating and addressing persistent spike protein, including strategies involving nattokinase, bromelain, curcumin, NAC, nutrition, and other supportive therapies. We also discuss practical ways functional nurses can help clients reduce their risk of viral illness, including respiratory hygiene, prevention strategies, and comprehensive assessment of COVID infection and vaccination history...

 This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

Melissa sits down with FNA graduate Michele Kostedt, BSN, RN, HWBC-BC, founder of Holistic Wellness and Coaching, to discuss why women in midlife may benefit from addressing the foundations of health before focusing exclusively on hormones or medications. Together, they explore gut health, inflammation, individualized hormone therapy, oral versus transdermal estrogen, and cyclic versus continuous approaches to hormone replacement.

Michele also shares her journey from skepticism to exploring frequency-specific microcurrent and sound therapy, including how she views these m...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

In this episode I examine the major shift underway in U.S. vaccine policy following President Trump’s new Gold Standard Childhood Vaccine Recommendations, including changes to the childhood vaccine schedule and a greater emphasis on parental choice and individualized decision-making. The episode also explores newly released communications involving Dr. Anthony Fauci and revisits the evidence surrounding COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy, including government data base safety signals, animal reproductive data, and Pfizer’s pregnancy trial. I examine what the available evid...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

In this episode, I welcome functional nurse Christin Smoot to discuss her journey from critical care nursing burnout to helping women restore their health through functional and holistic care. Christin shares how overcoming PCOS, PMDD, thyroid dysfunction, and migraines inspired her to pursue her career as a functional medicine nurse and somatic coach.

 Together, we explore the importance of nutrient status, metabolic health, nervous system regulation, and root-cause approaches for women's hormonal health. We also discuss how simple interventions—from opt...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

I examine the recent Senate hearing involving Dr. Anthony Fauci and discuss newly released diary entries, emails, and government records that raise serious questions about dishonest public messaging surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. I cover topics including the origins of COVID-19, lockdowns, masking, early outpatient treatment, vaccine safety, the biodistribution of mRNA lipid nanoparticles, and federally funded fetal tissue research. I also examine these issues through a biblical perspective, discussing how the pursuit of power, fame, and money can corrupt judgment and why...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

On today’s episode of I sit down with board-certified neurosurgeon Dr. Avery Jackson III and his wife, Cara Marie Jackson RD. to discuss why they believe true healing requires addressing the spirit, mind, and body. We dive into how the COVID-19 pandemic strengthened their faith, inspired the creation of The Body Healthcare, and reinforced their mission to integrate biblical principles with modern medicine. We also discuss why we believe Christ belongs at the center of healthcare, the importance of medical freedom and protecting the clinician-patient re...

The Functional Nurse Academy Podcast

 Melissa is joined by functional nurse Amber Andrasek, founder of Redeeming Hope Wellness, to share her remarkable journey from stage 3C inflammatory breast cancer to nearly three years with no evidence of disease. Amber discusses how she combined conventional cancer treatment with personalized metabolic and terrain-focused strategies to support her healing. Her experience ultimately transformed the direction of her nursing career and inspired her to help others uncover underlying imbalances, strengthen the body’s terrain, and build a foundation for long-term health. 

Amber’s website: https://www.redeem...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

In this episode, I explain why "normal" lab results do not always mean optimal health and how a functional medicine approach can identify dysfunction long before chronic disease develops. I walk through some of the most important functional lab markers for thyroid health, blood sugar regulation, and immune function, while sharing my personal journey with Hashimoto's disease and chronic Lyme disease to illustrate the limitations of conventional testing. I also discuss how functional nurses can help identify patterns, educate clients, and collaborate with healthcare providers to...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

Kelly Ann Shannon, founder of K. Shannon Functional Wellness, shares her journey from a career in critical care and cardiology to becoming a functional medicine nurse focused on helping patients address the root causes of chronic illness. She explains why she chose to leave nurse practitioner school in favor of training through the Functional Nurse Academy after becoming frustrated with a healthcare model centered primarily on pharmaceuticals rather than prevention and restoration of health. Together, we discuss the limitations of conventional approaches to chronic disease, the...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

On today’s episode of I sit down with board-certified neurosurgeon Dr. Avery Jackson III and his wife, Cara Marie Jackson RD. to discuss why they believe true healing requires addressing the spirit, mind, and body. We dive into how the COVID-19 pandemic strengthened their faith, inspired the creation of The Body Healthcare, and reinforced their mission to integrate biblical principles with modern medicine. We also discuss why we believe Christ belongs at the center of healthcare, the importance of medical freedom and protecting the clinician-patient re...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

In todays episode, I sit down with Dr. Sherri Tenpenny DO, AOBNMM, ABIHM to discuss her journey from practicing emergency medicine within the conventional healthcare system to becoming one of the world's most recognized advocates for vaccine safety and medical freedom. We explore concerns surrounding the childhood vaccination schedule, proposed mechanisms of vaccine-related neurological injury, and the management of childhood illnesses such as measles, including the role of supportive care and vitamin A. We also examine the ongoing discussion surrounding COVID-19 vaccine injuries, including myocarditis, while...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

In this episode, Melissa interviews functional nurse Ashley Rangel, founder of Voice of Truth Wellness. Ashley shares how her experiences during the COVID pandemic led her to help launch a Mobile IV business and ultimately inspired her to create a functional health practice dedicated to helping individuals address the root causes of their health concerns. Now serving clients across the country, Ashley utilizes functional medicine principles and a personalized approach to support healing and wellness. Together, they discuss innovative healing modalities, including ozone therapy, bioresonance therapy...

This episode is brought to you by The Functional Nurse Academy

In this episode, Melissa is joined by functional pharmacist Michaela Wachal, PharmD, CSP to discuss the potential health impacts of processed seed oils, genetic variations, and environmental toxin exposure. They explore how omega-6 fatty acid imbalances may contribute to oxidative stress, inflammation, and oxidized LDL, as well as how genetic differences can influence detoxification pathways and nutrient metabolism. The conversation also examines aluminum exposure, differences in bioavailability based on route of exposure, and emerging discussions around detoxification support. This episode offers an in-depth look at the...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

Melissa is joined by Kimberly Overton, founder of Remnant Healthcare and Nurse Freedom Network, to discuss her journey from critical care nursing to becoming a leader in advocacy, functional medicine, and nurse entrepreneurship. Kimberly shares how speaking out against COVID-era mandates and hospital protocols ultimately led her to create organizations focused on medical freedom, patient advocacy, and holistic healthcare. Together, they discuss Remnant Healthcare’s innovative model, stem cell therapies, functional medicine success stories, and how nurses can overcome imposter syndrome while building meaningful careers outside the tr...

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Melissa is joined by registered homeopath Tanya Kell to discuss the growing interest in homeopathy and why many individuals are turning to holistic approaches that support the body’s natural healing abilities. Tanya discusses how homeopathy works, the concept of the vital force, and how remedies are selected to help bring the body back into balance and homeostasis. We also dive into the emotional side of healing, including conversations around stress, emotions, and generational trauma. The episode highlights commonly used remedies such as Arnica for pain relief, educational resources available th...

Claim your free Functional Nurse Starter Kit

Melissa is joined by functional nurse Beth Ereio, founder of Functional Health Partners and graduate of the Functional Nurse Academy, to discuss Beth’s journey from autoimmune illness to restoring her health through functional medicine. They also discuss the work Beth is now doing in her practice, helping clients uncover root causes of chronic symptoms through functional medicine, nervous system regulation, and Neuro Emotional Technique (NET) to support emotional healing and overall wellness.

Beth’s links:

https://www.functionalhealthpartners.com/

become an NET...

Join me live at our next free informational webinar + Q&A 

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Academy Podcast, Melissa Schreibfeder, BSN, RN, BC-FMP, explores the rapid rise of functional nurses and the critical role they can play in addressing the growing chronic disease epidemic through root-cause, lifestyle-based approaches. She discusses the growing demand for ethical, clinically grounded functional medicine support and highlights the integrity concerns that can arise in an increasingly unregulated wellness industry. Melissa also breaks down how nurses across multiple licensure levels, including RNs and LPNs, can legally and ethically incorporate functional medicine p...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

Melissa is joined by functional nurse Cassidee Weaver, founder of Cassidee Weaver | Functional Wellness PLLC, to discuss her journey from conventional medicine into functional medicine after experiencing firsthand the limitations of the healthcare system during COVID and her own pregnancy. Cassidee shares how a severe mystery rash during pregnancy completely resolved through targeted dietary changes after being told she would likely need lifelong medication. They also discuss root-cause healing, herbal medicine including burdock root, postpartum nutrient depletion, faith, and wellness success stories involving chronic pain and infertility...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

 In this episode, I’m joined by functional nurse Koral Worsham, founder of Redeeming Roots Functional Medicine. We discuss how Koral left conventional medicine after witnessing the gaps in care during her mother’s Parkinson’s journey.  Since launching her own practice, she has helped clients uncover root causes of chronic illness, including one client with severe debilitating neurological symptoms who later discovered he was suffering from biotoxin illness caused by toxic mold exposure in his home. After leaving the environment and supporting detoxification and healing, he regained...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

An often overlooked cause of chronic fatigue is chronic Lyme disease—a complex condition that is frequently missed in conventional medicine. Approximately 2.5 million Americans suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), yet the traditional medical model rarely investigates underlying causes, focusing instead on symptom management with medications that do not address why patients are unwell.

In this episode, I share my personal journey of overcoming chronic fatigue syndrome through a functional medicine approach that addressed underlying chronic Lyme disease.  I also discuss ongoing concerns surrounding guidance fro...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

Is yoga really just stretching—or is there more beneath the surface? While it’s widely promoted for stress relief and flexibility, its origins are rooted in a spiritual system that raises important questions for Christians. Some believers feel comfortable using yoga purely as exercise, while others avoid it due to practices like kundalini and its underlying spiritual framework. These differing perspectives highlight the need for biblical discernment in today’s wellness culture. Ultimately, the question isn’t just what yoga does for the body—but what it may inf...

Melissa is joined by Dr. Heather Gessling, MD to discuss the clinical use and emerging research surrounding Ivermectin, an affordable medication that has gained significant attention in recent years. They discuss its potential roles in immune modulation, inflammation support, and its application in conditions such as autoimmune disorders and persistent post-viral symptoms. The conversation also addresses the controversy surrounding ivermectin, including differing perspectives within medicine and the factors influencing its use in clinical practice. Dr. Gessling shares her experience utilizing this therapy with patients and how it may fit within a broader functional and root-cause approach to healing. 

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

In this episode, Functional Medicine Nurse Sarah Waycaster shares her powerful journey from being unable to walk for nine months to restoring her health through a functional medicine approach. After being dismissed by conventional medicine, she uncovered underlying vascular and immune dysfunction rooted in trauma. Sarah explains how this experience led her to transition from conventional nursing into functional nursing after training with Functional Nurse Academy. Now, she helps women heal by addressing foundational health pillars, nervous system regulation, and purpose-driven living. The conversation also weaves in...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

 Autism rates in the U.S. are skyrocketing, and functional medicine offers a holistic approach to addressing potential root causes like gut health, toxicity, and inflammation. In this episode, I speak with functional nurse Chelsey Rozeboom, founder of Solid Foundation Functional Health, to discuss how she successfully helped her autistic son improve through dietary, lifestyle, and detox interventions. After seeing firsthand what was possible, Chelsey went on to build a functional medicine practice where she now helps other children and families navigate autism and complex chronic conditions u...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

Melissa is joined by functional nurse Bonnie Ridge, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, PHN, BC-FMP, CTP, HHP, CHC  to dive deep into the world of food allergies and sensitivities. They explore how gut health and immune support are critical in addressing these chronic issues. Bonnie shares her personal story of navigating severe food sensitivities with her child and her transformation from conventional medicine to holistic care. The conversation also touches on practical strategies for healing, from detoxing to nutritional support. Plus, Bonnie shares how Functional Nurse Academy helped her g...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

In this episode, Melissa is joined by one of FNA's top referenced experts Dr. Izabella Wentz, PharmD, to explore the root causes of thyroid dysfunction and her evolution from a conventionally trained pharmacist to a leader in integrative pharmacy. They discuss the widespread mismanagement of hypothyroidism, including why many patients do not feel better on T4-only medications like levothyroxine. Dr. Wentz explains the critical connection between gut health and thyroid function, including how IBS may be a symptom of deeper issues like SIBO and intestinal permeability...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

The gut microbiome plays a foundational role in overall health, influencing digestion, immunity, mood, and inflammation. However, common exposures like glyphosate and chronic stress can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to a wide range of chronic health issues. Fortunately, healing the gut is possible through diet, lifestyle changes, targeted nutrients, and fermented foods. We’re joined by Functional Medicine Nurse Specialist Krysti Jonas to explore how restoring microbiome balance can lead to powerful, lasting health transformations. Topics include environmental toxins, gut-healing strategies, and practical steps for long-term we...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

In this episode, I explore the powerful intersection of biblical healing and modern science. From the healing ministry of Jesus to the medicinal properties of herbs like frankincense and cinnamon, this episode uncovers how Scripture provides a comprehensive blueprint for wholeness. I also discuss how Christian prayer has been scientifically validated by organizations like the Global Medical Research Institute, and how practices like faith, forgiveness, and renewing the mind are backed by neuroscience. Whether you're a believer seeking deeper understanding or a health professional integrating faith into...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

Melissa is joined by Dr. Justin Dearing DC, DACNB, FIAMA, FAARM founder of the Dearing Clinic to explore a powerful, integrative model that combines functional neurology, metabolic medicine, and structural rehabilitation. We break down why patients with “normal labs” are still struggling and how advanced diagnostics uncover the real root causes. We also explore multiple alternative therapies such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and ozone therapy.

Guest links:

https://thedearingclinic.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thedearingclinic/
https://www.youtube.com/@thed...

This episode is brought to you by Functional Nurse Academy

In this episode, Melissa is joined by functional nurse Meghan Cosgrove, founder of Steadfast Functional Health. Together, they unpack the powerful connection between gut health and hormonal balance. They explore how imbalances in one system often show up in the other—and how to heal both.

Book a free discovery call with Meghan: https://my.practicebetter.io/#/5e89eb5e2a982306d08ba297/bookings?r=66f6cd1b9f0681c93e1238de&step=services

 Meghan’s practice: https://steadfastfunctionalhealth.