Are you running too many labs and missing what really matters?

In this episode of the Functionally Speaking podcast, we’re unpacking a hot topic in functional medicine: testing fatigue. We’re both pro-labs and pro-thinking, and this conversation is all about striking that balance. We share the most common mistakes we see with overtesting, how we approach lab work in our own practices, and why clinical thinking, client readiness, and strong intake forms matter just as much—if not more—than what a lab says.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re leaning too hard on lab work—or felt overwhelmed by all the “must-have” tests—this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:

• 02:11 Why over-testing is a real problem in functional medicine
• 03:04 What targeted testing actually looks like (and why it matters)
• 03:50 Why conventional testing often misses the full picture
• 04:24 What makes a comprehensive health assessment actually comprehensive
• 06:43 How to assess client capacity before you run anything
• 07:29 The cost, stress, and supplement burden of unnecessary labs
• 12:59 Why clinical intuition gets stronger with experience (and fewer tests)

Connect with Unconventional Collaborative:

Join Us: https://unconventional-collaborative.mn.co/

Website: unconventionalcollaborative.com

Instagram: instagram.com/unconventional.collaborative

Connect with Laura Ligos:

Website: https://thesassydietitian.com

Instagram: instagram.com/thesassydietitian

Connect with Danielle Kepics:

Website: https://www.empoweredmindbody.co

Instagram: instagram.com/danielle.kepics

The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast.

The content shared by Unconventional Collaborative is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Additionally, health coaches, fitness professionals, clinicians, and other practitioners are solely responsible for how they interpret and apply the information shared. Practitioners are expected to use their professional judgment and remain within the legal and ethical scope of their individual certification, licensure, or credentialing body. If there is any uncertainty about what falls within your professional scope of practice, it is your responsibility to consult with your licensing board, certifying organization, or regulatory authority.

Unconventional Collaborative and its contributors assume no responsibility or liability for any outcomes resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided in this podcast.