Functional Flow Wellness Podcast

Functional Flow Wellness Podcast

By Functional Flow Wellness w/ Kristin Grace FDN-PHealth & Fitness
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Functional Flow Wellness Podcast episodes

  • Ep 10: Your Functional Flow Game Plan: 5 Ways to Heal with Me

    Feeling stuck, burnt out, or flared up? In this episode, I'm walking you through five ways you can work with me right now (or soon!)—whether you're ready to dip your toes in or go all in on your healing journey. From low-cost support to high-level labs and 1:1 coaching, I’ve got something for every stage of recovery.

    Here’s what I break down for you in this episode:

    🔹 The Functional Flow Hub ($9/month)
    A low-cost, high-value membership for the fatigued, flared, bloated, and burnt out. Inside, you'll get:
    – Monthly trainings on gut health, nervous system regulation, minerals, and more
    – Community support from others on a similar healing journey
    – Bite-sized education so you can take action without overwhelm
    👉 Perfect if you’re just starting out or want ongoing accountability between deeper work.

    🔹 Functional Flow Foundations – Group Coaching (Next round starts October)
    Our signature 6-week group coaching program focused on foundational habits for nervous system healing, circadian rhythm alignment, blood sugar balance, mineral support, and more.
    💡 Early bird discount: $100 off if you join the waitlist!

    🔹 1:1 Foundations Package (6 Weeks)
    Want personalized support without committing to labs? This is for you.
    – One-on-one sessions to build custom routines around your symptoms and energy needs
    – Text support to stay accountable and troubleshoot
    – Ideal if you're craving structure and coaching around lifestyle shifts and symptom relief

    🔹 1:1 Mini Package (3 Months)
    Includes HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis) + customized protocol
    – Two 1:1 sessions/month
    – Personalized mineral support
    – Nervous system, stress, and fatigue guidance
    – Unlimited voice and text support
    🔥 A solid step if you’re ready to dig into root causes but aren’t quite ready for advanced testing.

    🔹 1:1 VIP Package (5 Months)
    For the client ready to go all in. Includes testing, coaching, and full support:
    – HTMA, OAT (Organic Acids Test), GI-MAP, and DUTCH hormone testing
    – Biweekly 1:1 coaching calls
    – Unlimited voice/text support
    – Deep-dive protocols, nervous system work, and full practitioner guidance
    ✨ Designed for the chronic fatigue, dysautonomia, and gut warrior who wants answers and solutions.

    🔗 Resources & Links:

    – Join the Functional Flow Hub: https://functionalflowwellness.com/programs#functional-flow-hub

    – Get on the Foundations Group waitlist (and grab $100 off!): currently closed
    – Apply for 1:1 Coaching: functionalflowwellness.com/apply
    – DM me on Instagram @functionalflowwellness if you're not sure which offer is right for you!

    💬 Connect with Me:
    Instagram | @functionalflowwellness
    Website | functionalflowwellness.com


    Nothing in this podcast should *ever* be taken as medical advice!


    31 min
  • Ep 9: Mold Illness and ME/CFS Part 2

    In this episode, I continue to break down the diagnostic criteria of ME/CFS as per the CDC guidelines in relation to mold illness.


    This is a continuation of episode 8.

    I talk about:

    • immune system burden
    • the lymphatic system and mold illness
    • cytokine production with ME/CFS and mold illness/mold toxicity
    • increased inflammation
    • stress response
    • dysautonomia, nerve damage
    • functional testing like the OAT (organic acids test), GI Map, and cortisol testing.
    • anti-gliadin/gluten protein and celiac and non-celiac gluten sensitivity, increased intestinal permeability/leaky gut
    • fungal overgrowth on OAT and GI map
    • brain fog and fatigue and nutrient deficiencies
    • Mast cells, mast cell activation syndrome
    • Energy metabolism
    • HPA Axis (Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis)


    Sign up for the Functional Flow Hub (membership) for only $9/month for chronic fatigue, gut health, and nervous system support. Join at https://functionalflowwellness.com/programs#functional-flow-hub


    Nothing in this show should ever be taken as medical advice.

    22 min
  • Ep 8: Can Mold Cause ME/CFS? Why this is complex and nuanced

    In this episode, I talk about whether or not mold illness can cause or contribute to ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome)


    Mold illness is complex and nuanced.


    I talk about

    • mold allergy vs mold illness
    • mold spores vs mycotoxins
    • my own story with mold illness and ME/CFS
    • what the CDC (Center for Disease Control) has to say about it
    • the lymphatic system and "toxins"
    • leaky gut AKA increased intestinal permeability
    • mold, candida, and fungus and their contributions to PEM (post exertional malaise)

    Nothing in this podcast should ever be taken as medical advice.

    38 min
  • Ep 7: My Thoughts on Realistically Healing from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)

    In this episode, I talk about my personal take on healing when it comes to chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

    Based on my own experiences and my own observations in others, I think it is important to continue to have hope.

    I talk about why I value having hope for healing over succumbing to the "no cure" mentality.

    I share my personal journey with the push/crash cycle and how getting into remission isn't linear. No two stories are the same, and I acknowledge the nuances between different stories.

    20 min
  • Ep 6: Understanding The Autonomic Nervous System + Hidden Stressors Behind Dysautonomia

    In this episode, I’m breaking down the autonomic nervous system.

    You’ll learn:

    • What the autonomic nervous system (ANS) actually is and why it matters

    • The two main branches of the ANS: sympathetic vs. parasympathetic

    • How imbalances in these systems show up as symptoms like fatigue, lightheadedness, temperature dysregulation, and more

    • What “dysautonomia” really means and how it’s often misunderstood or overlooked

    • The hidden stressors that keep the nervous system dysregulated.

    This episode is for anyone who suspects their nervous system is stuck in survival mode and wants to begin the process of restoring balance—especially if you’ve been dealing with chronic fatigue, POTS, or unexplained symptoms.

    🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

    • Want personalized support? Learn more about my 1:1 coaching and Functional Flow Foundations program at

      https://functionalflowwellness.my.canva.site/bring-flow-back-into-your-life

    • Join the waitlist for my next group program:

      https://functionalflowwellness.my.canva.site/groupcoaching

    ✨ If this episode resonated, leave a review or share it with someone who needs to hear it. Let’s get your nervous system back into healing mode.

    This is not medical advice and I am not a doctor. This content is not meant to diagnose, treat, or cure any health condition. Always consult with your own healthcare team.

    25 min
  • Ep 5: How Functional Labs Reveal Root Causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)

    In Part 2 of this bonus ME/CFS series, I walk you through the exact functional lab tests I use to help clients get to the root of their chronic fatigue.

    If you’ve ever been told your labs are “normal” — but you still feel exhausted, wired-but-tired, or completely burned out — this episode will show you why standard tests often miss what’s really going on. I address mold and mycotoxins, gluten sensitivity, histamine, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, autoimmunity, inflammation, mitochondrial function, HPA Axis Dysfunction and diurnal cortisol patterns, hormones, leaky gut AKA increased intestinal permeability, and more

    Inside this episode, I break down:

    • What the Organic Acids Test (OAT) reveals about energy production, detox pathways, and gut health

    • How HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis) identifies stress patterns, mineral imbalances, and nervous system strain

    • Why the MRT Food Sensitivity Test is different from IgG testing — and how it supports the gut-immune connection

    • How the GI-MAP pinpoints hidden infections, parasites, and inflammation

    • What the DUTCH test can tell you about cortisol, sex hormones, and your stress response

    This episode is packed with insights for anyone ready to dig deeper into what’s really causing their chronic fatigue.

    🧪 Curious about testing for yourself? Fill out an application to work together 1:1 at functionalflowwellness.com/apply.


    I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. This is for educational purposes only and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.

    34 min
  • Ep 4: Understanding ME/CFS: What the CDC Says About Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Root Causes (part 1)

    In this two-part series, we’re diving deep into Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) — a complex and often misunderstood condition that leaves millions struggling with debilitating fatigue, brain fog, PEM (post exertional malaise), dysautonomia (autonomic nervous system dysfunction) and more.

    In Part 1, I walk you through:

    • An overview of the diagnostic criteria for ME/CFS

    • The CDC's current list of potential causes and triggers

    • Lack of biomarkers does not mean it's not a real diagnosis

    • Why understanding underlying root causes matters in your healing journey

    Whether you’ve been newly diagnosed or have spent years searching for answers, this episode will help you begin to piece together what’s really going on beneath the surface of chronic fatigue.

    💡 Stay tuned for Part 2 — airing this Thursday — where I break down functional approaches to ME/CFS and the specific root causes I see in my clients that align with the current CDC research.


    This is not medical advice, always consult with your own healthcare provider.

    26 min
  • Ep 3: What is ME/CFS: Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Root Causes, and Recovery from a Functional Medicine Perspective

    In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) — what it is, why it’s often misunderstood, and how to start addressing it from a root-cause, functional medicine perspective.

    If you're navigating unexplained fatigue, post-viral illness, or ongoing dysautonomia symptoms, this conversation is essential.
    You'll learn how chronic fatigue syndrome is much more than just feeling tired — it’s a complex, multi-system illness that impacts energy production, the nervous system, immune function, and more.

    In this episode, I’ll cover:

    What is ME/CFS?

    • Understanding the basics: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

    • How ME/CFS is more than just “being tired” — it’s a dysfunction of the body's ability to produce and sustain energy

    • The diagnostic criteria typically used, including post-exertional malaise (PEM)

    Why ME/CFS Is Commonly Misunderstood

    • The stigma and misconceptions surrounding chronic fatigue syndrome

    • Why conventional medicine often overlooks the complexity of this illness

    • How validation, education, and self-advocacy become crucial parts of the healing journey

    Root Causes and Contributing Factors to ME/CFS

    • Nervous system dysregulation and chronic sympathetic dominance

    • Mitochondrial dysfunction affecting energy production

    • Chronic infections (viral, bacterial, parasitic) and their lingering effects

    • Gut dysbiosis, leaky gut, and the gut-immune-brain connection

    • Toxic exposures, including mold, mycotoxins, and environmental chemicals

    • Hormonal imbalances (low cortisol, thyroid dysfunction, sex hormone depletion)

    • Trauma history and the connection between emotional stress and physical illness

    Functional Medicine Approach to Healing ME/CFS

    • Why identifying root causes is essential instead of just managing symptoms

    • How nervous system regulation practices can shift the foundation of recovery

    • Targeted functional lab testing options (gut health, mineral status, cortisol rhythms, infections)

    • The role of gentle detoxification, nutrient repletion, and mitochondrial support

    • The importance of personalized protocols instead of one-size-fits-all plan 

      Why Quick-Fix Approaches Don’t Work

    • How pushing through symptoms often backfires

    • The importance of respecting your body’s signals and working within your "energy envelope"

    • Building resilience gradually through sustainable, step-by-step habits

    If you're struggling with unexplained fatigue, dysautonomia, POTS, or have been told "your labs look fine" but you know something deeper is going on — you're not alone.
    Healing is possible when you approach recovery by honoring your body's unique needs and uncovering the real root causes.


    For a deeper dive into these topics, keep listening for future episodes.


    This is not medical advice, always consult with your own healthcare provider.


    27 min
  • Ep 2: Stress, The Autonomic Nervous System & the HPA Axis

    In this episode, we discussed:

    • The Autonomic Nervous System: The key differences between the stress response (sympathetic nervous system) vs. the relaxation response (parasympathetic nervous system)
    • The HPA Axis: Understanding our stress response system and how it can become imbalanced.
    • Diurnal Cortisol: Why tracking cortisol levels throughout the day provides valuable insights into stress.
    • Stress & Dysautonomia: Having dysautonomia makes it more difficult to shift between sympathetic and parasympathetic states.
    • Hidden Stressors: Briefly touched on often-overlooked sources of stress: hormones, immune system, digestion, detoxification, energy production, and the nervous system.

    Key Takeaways:

    • A dysfunctional HPA axis significantly impacts our stress response.
    • Diurnal cortisol testing offers a deeper understanding of stress than single-point measurements.
    • Stress and dysautonomia have a complex, reinforcing relationship.
    • Recognizing hidden stressors is vital for managing overall well-being and dysautonomia symptoms.

    Next Time On The Podcast: In the future we will dive deeper into conditions like ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) and Dysautonomia (dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system)

    Connect With Us: @functionalflowwellness and functionalflowwellness.com

    Thank you for listening!

    34 min
  • Ep 1: Welcome to Functional Flow Wellness - My Story, My Approach, & How I Can Help You

    Welcome to the very first episode of the Functional Flow Wellness Podcast! I'm your host, Kristin Grace, a certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and owner of Functional Flow Wellness.

    In this introductory episode, I'm excited to connect with you and share more about:

    • My personal journey recovering from multiple chronic illnesses (ME/CFS aka myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, POTS aka postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, general dysautonomia aka dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, and more) and what inspired me to pursue functional wellness.
    • What Functional Diagnostic Nutrition (FDN) is and how it differs from conventional approaches to health.
    • My philosophy and approach to helping driven women overcome frustrating and often debilitating chronic symptoms like fatigue, burnout, hormone dysregulation, gut issues, dysautonomia, and more.
    • The importance of investigating and addressing the root causes of your health challenges, rather than just masking symptoms.
    • How nutrition and lifestyle changes play a crucial role in achieving lasting wellness, and are integral even when combining with conventional medicine.
    • What you can expect from future episodes of the Functional Flow Wellness Podcast.

    This episode is all about laying the foundation for our journey together. I'll be sharing a basic overview of my story, my training as an FDN practitioner, and how I work with women to help them truly solve their chronic health symptoms and flow into a state of greater well-being.

    More About Kristin:

    As a certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and the owner of Functional Flow Wellness, I am passionate about motivating women to take control of their health. My own experience with chronic illness has given me a deep understanding of the challenges you may be facing and a strong commitment to finding real, sustainable solutions. I utilize evidence-informed strategies and a holistic approach to uncover the underlying imbalances/stressors contributing to your symptoms.

    Connect with Kristin:

    • Website: https://www.functionalflowwellness.com/
    • Instagram: @functionalflowwellness
    • Facebook: @functionalflowwellness

    Thank you for joining me for the first step in your journey towards functional flow and lasting wellness. Tune in next time for more in-depth discussions and actionable strategies to help you take charge of your health and flow into wellness!

    Please remember that the Functional Flow Wellness Podcast is designed for educational and informational purposes only. I am not a physician, and the content provided here is never to be taken as medical advice. Nothing discussed on this podcast is intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any health condition or disease. It is essential to consult with your own qualified medical doctor or healthcare provider for any health issues, diagnosis, or treatment. You are solely responsible for your own healthcare decisions. A friendly reminder: this is not medical advice.


    17 min

About Functional Flow Wellness Podcast

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Welcome to the Functional Flow Wellness Podcast. I'm your host, Kristin Grace. As a certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, I share evidence-informed strategies and my personal journey…