Have you ever dreamed of working in a more holistic, patient-centered way—without having to start your own practice from scratch? If so, you’re going to love today’s episode. We’re diving into the growing field of integrative and functional medicine—especially for those who want the stability of an employed role while practicing in a more meaningful, whole-person way.

In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa McDonald, founder of Integrative Connections, a leading job board and recruiting service for integrative and functional medicine. Lisa is not a physician, but her own healing journey through functional medicine inspired her to help others find their way into this meaningful field. She shares what these roles really look like and how to find your path into one. Whether you’re just starting to explore this field or wondering what kind of training might be helpful, Lisa offers practical tips, personal stories, and lots of encouragement for taking that first step—or simply testing the waters.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode224

• What is integrative and functional medicine?
• Why are more physicians seeking to incorporate these modalities into how they care for patients?
• What kinds of patients and conditions do these practices typically see?
• The training and certifications that can increase your knowledge and help you stand out
• Typical visit length, scheduling, and expectations in integrative jobs
• How to explore these roles and ask the right questions in interviews
• Advice for physicians curious about pivoting into integrative or functional care

https://integratedconnects.com
https://integratedconnects.com/professional-development/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisapmcdonald/

Andrew Weil Center For Integrative Medicine - 2-year fellowship with several onsite weeks in AZ

https://awcim.arizona.edu/education/fellowship

Institute for Functional Medicine - can be fully remote, but also in-person conferences.

Free 1.5 hour CME course

https://ifm.org

Episode #23: Curious About Integrative and Functional Medicine?

Carpe Diem Resume Kit - Converting your CV to a resume helps recruiters better understand why you are a great match for a specific job. My resume kit will guide you through creating a polished resume for your desired job. Templates are included as well as a bonus on writing your cover letter. Reach out to us at team@doctorscrossing.com for more information!

Today’s episode is a powerful conversation about identity, loss, and rediscovery. I’m joined by Dr. John Fondran, a colorectal surgeon whose career ultimately came to an end due to severe arthritis in his hands and feet—a condition he had long been managing, but whose impact he struggled to fully accept.

Dr. Fondran takes us through the difficult process of stepping away from surgery—not by choice, but by necessity—and how he confronted the emotional weight of no longer being able to do what he loved. We explore the dark period that followed, the impact on his identity, and how he ultimately found healing and purpose in a new role in clinical informatics.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode223

In this episode we’re talking about:

• What it’s like to lose your surgical career due to physical limitations
• The emotional toll of walking away from a deeply ingrained identity
• How Dr. Fondran navigated depression, denial, and a major transition
• The importance of support systems, therapy, and self-care in recovery
• What clinical informatics is and how it allowed him to stay in medicine
• How physicians can still see themselves as “healers” after leaving patient care
• Advice for others facing forced or voluntary career transitions

Links for this episode:

LinkedIn for Physicians Course - Would you rather clean out your garage or attic than “put yourself out there” and network? No worries! My LinkedIn course is geared to make networking doable and fun. I will show you how to connect with people who can be helpful for your career, what to put in your messages, and how to apply strategically for the job you really want. You can learn more about this course and get a sneak peek inside right HERE.

Dr. Fondran LinkedIn

Episode #61: Coping with anxiety as a new attending

If you are curious about expert witness work and whether it might be a good fit for you, this episode offers valuable insights.

I’m joined by Dr. Amy Fogelman, an internist and founder of High Rock Experts and High Rock Academy. Amy shares her journey into expert witness work and breaks down what it takes to get started, including qualifications, mindset shifts, compensation, and common concerns—like testifying against another physician. We also discuss how her program helps physicians build a rewarding and flexible side gig in the legal space.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here:

www.doctorscrossing.com/episode222

• What expert witness work involves and how to get started
• Whether you need to be board-certified or clinically active
• The difference between medical malpractice and personal injury cases
• Why testifying against another physician is not always what it seems
• Ways to niche down and attract your ideal cases
• How to avoid common beginner mistakes and stand out to attorneys
• An overview of Dr. Fogelman’s expert witness course and what it includes

https://highrockexperts.com/

https://www.instagram.com/amyfogelmanmd

https://www.facebook.com/amyfogelmanmd

Thinking about expert witness work? Dr. Amy Fogelman’s course is a fantastic way to turn your clinical experience into a new, rewarding opportunity. I’ve had a chance to review the program and I highly recommend it!

👉 Use the code HEATHER at checkout for 5% off her program:
Explore the Course & Enroll Here

Want to chat with Dr. Fogelman directly to see if her course is a good fit?
Book a Discovery Call with Dr. Fogelman

🎁 Bonus: When you enroll in the course through my link above, you’ll also receive access to my LinkedIn for Physicians course—absolutely free!

💻 Just interested in mastering LinkedIn on its own?Check out the LinkedIn for Physicians Course