In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Samantha Hamilton MSN-Ed, RN sits down with Tabetha Hystad RN to discuss her journey from traditional community nursing to functional nursing. After 15 years in healthcare and experiencing the challenges of burnout, pandemic-era healthcare, and personal health struggles, Tabetha began searching for a more holistic and empowering approach to patient care. Her path eventually led her to functional medicine and the Institute for Functional Nursing.

Together, they explore how functional nursing principles can be integrated into everyday nursing practice, even in home care and rural healthcare settings. Tabetha shares how she now views patient stories through a root-cause lens, helping clients improve sleep, blood sugar balance, pain management, and overall quality of life through education and lifestyle strategies. She also opens up about her personal experience with fertility challenges, pregnancy loss, women's health concerns, and how functional medicine transformed her perspective on wellness. Whether you're a nurse exploring career possibilities, interested in women's health, or looking for ways to bring functional medicine into your current role, this conversation offers inspiration, practical insights, and hope for what's possible.

• Location: Alberta, Canada
• Profession: Registered Nurse (Home Care & Community Health)
• Instagram: @rootedprairiewellness

How should nurses list credentials after their name? In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Dr. Brigitte Sager explains how nurses, nurse practitioners, and advanced practice nurses can understand and display their professional credentials with more clarity and confidence.

If you have ever wondered whether RN, BSN, MSN, DNP, APRN, NP, board certification, holistic nursing certification, or your other credentials should come first, this episode will help you make sense of the “alphabet soup” after a nurse’s name. Brigitte breaks down the difference between academic degrees, nursing licensure, advanced practice titles, national board certifications, specialty certifications, and program-created certificates.

You’ll also hear how credentialing applies to nurses entering functional, holistic, and integrative healthcare. Brigitte discusses holistic nursing board certification through AHNCC, the Institute for Functional Medicine’s certification process, and the future need for a true functional nursing board certification.

This episode is especially helpful for RNs, NPs, APRNs, nurse entrepreneurs, holistic nurses, functional medicine nurses, integrative health professionals, and nurses pursuing advanced education or specialty training. Whether you are updating your email signature, website bio, resume, professional title, or social media profile, this conversation will help you think more carefully about credibility, professionalism, and how to represent your qualifications accurately.

In this episode:

• How to list nursing credentials after your name
• The difference between degrees, licenses, certifications, and certificates
• Where RN, NP, APRN, MSN, DNP, and board certifications fit
• Why credential order matters for nurses and nurse practitioners
• What holistic nursing certification means
• How IFM certification fits into functional medicine education
• Why functional nursing needs clearer professional standards
• How nurses can communicate credibility in functional and integrative healthcare

Learn more about the Institute for Functional Nursing: www.fxnursing.com

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager welcomes Samantha Hamilton, MSN-Ed, RN, a functional nurse educator, entrepreneur, and the Director of Growth and Partnerships at the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN). Together, they pull back the curtain on what functional nursing education actually looks like, how nurses can integrate functional medicine into practice, and why nursing-specific training is so different from traditional functional medicine programs.

This conversation explores the foundations of IFN's signature Functional Nursing Program™, including how it teaches to IFM's published clinical competencies, leans heavily into case-study learning, offers holistic nursing certification pathways, supports students interested in entrepreneurship, and how nurses can apply functional medicine principles in real-world clinical settings. Brigitte and Sam also discuss the growing demand for root-cause nursing care, the importance of community and mentorship in nursing education, and why nurses are uniquely positioned to lead the future of preventative and integrative healthcare. If you're curious about functional nursing, holistic nursing certification, or starting your own wellness-focused practice, this episode offers an inside look at what’s possible.

• Director of Growth & Partnerships at the Institute for Functional Nursing
• Registered Nurse & Functional Nurse Educator
• Website: https://www.fxnursing.com
• Attend a Q & A webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zNGnUGlaRzqrJlWzaA6AXw#/registration
• Schedule a 1 on 1 call: https://calendly.com/samantha-fxnursing/30min

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager answers one of the most common questions nurses ask when exploring holistic and functional healthcare: can a registered nurse or nurse practitioner become certified in functional medicine?

Brigitte breaks down the current landscape of functional medicine education, explains the difference between certificates and board certifications, clarifies what options are currently available for nurses seeking credibility and advanced training in this growing field and why holistic nursing certification is currently the closest aligned pathway.

This episode also explores the future of functional nursing, including the need for a true nursing-specific board certification in functional medicine and why holistic nursing certification may currently be the closest aligned pathway. Brigitte shares insights on IFM certification, holistic nursing credentials, and how nurses can strategically position themselves for career growth in integrative and functional healthcare settings. If you're considering additional education, wondering what credentials matter most, or trying to decide your next step as a functional nurse or nurse practitioner, this episode offers practical guidance and clarity.

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager shares key takeaways from the Personalized Lifestyle Medicine Institute (PLMI) conference, founded by Dr. Jeffrey Bland, often called the father of functional medicine. This conference focused on clinical integration and real-world application, offering insights that nurses and practitioners can immediately implement.

Brigitte breaks down powerful themes from leading experts in functional medicine, including neurodegeneration and microglial health, the role of inflammation and mitochondrial function, evolving gut health protocols, and the critical impact of circadian rhythm and sleep on metabolic health. She also explores practical nutrition insights, including how taste satisfaction influences eating behaviors, and dives into emerging tools like AI-driven clinical support for functional medicine practitioners. If you're a nurse or healthcare professional looking to stay current and effectively apply functional medicine principles, this episode delivers actionable insights and future-forward thinking.

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager is joined by Dr. Chip Nguyen, DNP, NP-C, IFMCP,  to explore how a functional medicine nurse can successfully integrate aesthetics with root-cause medicine to create a more holistic, patient-centered practice. With over 18 years of experience across primary care, urgent care, pulmonology, aesthetics, and functional medicine, Chip shares how her own health journey led her to a root-cause, patient-centered approach that redefines modern healthcare.

She explains how functional medicine enhances aesthetic results by addressing hormones, gut health, inflammation, and metabolic balance—creating longer-lasting, more meaningful patient transformations.

This conversation dives into:

• How functional medicine supports better outcomes in the aesthetics world
• The role of a functional medicine nurses in integrative and aesthetic care
• Lab testing, root-cause analysis, and personalized treatment strategies
• Building a hybrid practice combining aesthetics and functional medicine
• Entrepreneurship, systems, and scaling a sustainable nurse-led business
• How to stand out in the growing fields of functional medicine and aesthetics

Whether you're a nurse practitioner, aesthetic provider, or exploring functional medicine, this episode offers actionable insights on combining beauty, wellness, and clinical expertise into a powerful, future-focused career.

• Location: Newport Beach, CA
• Website: https://www.wellnesswithchip.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnesswithchip/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Wellnesswithchip-61571193423514/

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP breaks down one of the most common questions nurses and nurse practitioners ask: should you go back to school, and if so, which path is right for you? From BSN to MSN, nurse practitioner programs, DNP vs PhD, and beyond, this episode explores the real impact of advanced degrees on your career, scope of practice, income potential, and long-term fulfillment.

More importantly, this conversation challenges the assumption that more education is always the answer. Brigitte shares insights from her own journey and from working with over a thousand RNs and NPs navigating burnout, career transitions, and the shift toward functional and integrative healthcare. If you're questioning your next step, considering entrepreneurship, or feeling pulled toward a more aligned way of practicing nursing, this episode will help you clarify your goals and make a more intentional decision about your future.

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what it really looks like to become a nurse entrepreneur in the holistic space. We’ll talk about the emotional rollercoaster, the real cost (in time or money), and the surprising skills you’ll have to learn along the way.

You’ll hear hard-earned truths like:

• Why “if you build it, they will come” is a myth (and what to do instead)

• Why passion isn’t enough—and what you’ll need to learn to succeed

• Why crying (sometimes out of nowhere) is part of the process

• And why there's plenty of room for you in this space—even if someone else in town is doing something similar

Whether you’re in the dreaming phase or already building your practice, this episode will help you feel seen, supported, and seriously prepared.

It’s not supposed to be easy—but it is worth it. Let’s talk about it.

Learn more about what we offer at the Institute for Functional Nursing or join the movement at fxnursing.com

Considering our Holistic Nursing Entrepreneur Program™? Learn more here: https://learn.fxnursing.com/hnep 

Subscribe for more episodes on nurse entrepreneurship, holistic care, and transforming healthcare through nursing.

In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP IFMCP shares a major milestone for IFN: the official launch of the first cohort of the Functional Nursing Program. She also shares highlights from two recent conferences: the AANP Health Policy Conference in Washington, DC and the Integrative Healthcare Symposium in New York City, where IFN hosted its first ever exhibitor booth.

Brigitte recaps key takeaways from health policy advocacy on Capitol Hill, and reflects on why nurses must show up, increase policymakers’ understanding, and communicate in language that resonates with constituents. She also shares insights from the NYC symposium, including emerging themes around GLP-1s, brain health, nitric oxide and the glymphatic system, imaging as a tool in functional care, and the realities of nutrition research. The episode closes with behind the scenes lessons from launching the IFN booth, building partnerships, advocating for registered nurses to be recognized by functional lab companies, and navigating a surprise blizzard that extended the trip.

In this episode, I’m sharing 10 hard-earned truths I wish every nurse knew before stepping into functional nursing. This isn’t just a career shift—it’s a whole new way of thinking about patient care, your scope, and your purpose as a nurse.

We’ll talk about:

• Why you’ll never feel fully “ready”—and why that’s okay

• What makes functional medicine feel like coming home to nursing

• How to stop thinking in silos and start treating the whole person

• Why you don’t need 50 labs or supplements to be effective

• And why this path might finally align with why you became a nurse in the first place

Whether you're exploring root-cause healing, looking for more autonomy, or just craving work that matters—this episode is for you.

Let’s redefine what it means to be a nurse in today’s healthcare system.

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about IFN's current programs at https://www.fxnursing.com

Subscribe for more episodes on holistic nursing, functional medicine, and building your dream practice.

Functional psychiatry is one of the least common niches in the functional medicine world, but it is often where patients experience some of the most profound “whole person” care. In this episode, Brigitte Sager interviews Everest Goldstein, board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and IFM certified clinician, about what functional psychiatry really means, how she built her practice, and why nursing is uniquely positioned to lead in this space.

Everest shares her own turning point after Lyme disease, when a provider spent the time to take a full functional history and connect the dots. From there, she explains how functional psychiatry treats depression and anxiety as symptoms with root causes, not labels that end the conversation. You’ll hear practical, surprising examples of how gut health, cortisol dysregulation, dysbiosis, H. pylori, constipation, and yeast overgrowth can drive mood symptoms, and why foundations like sleep, stress, movement, and nutrition matter more than “shiny objects” like endless supplements, peptides, or IVs.

They also discuss building community as a clinician, the realities of starting a practice, and how nurses can confidently work within scope by focusing on foundational health behaviors and patient education.

Missed the Redefining the Future of Nursing Summit? Click here to get access to all the session replays.

• Functional psychiatry is a root-cause approach that integrates conventional and functional tools to restore whole-person health

• Depression and anxiety can reflect underlying physiology such as gut dysfunction, cortisol patterns, hormones, sleep disruption, or unresolved trauma

• Gut health is a recurring driver in mental health cases, including dysbiosis, H. pylori, constipation, and yeast overgrowth

• “Treatment-resistant depression” often signals an incomplete root-cause workup, not a lack of options

• Many medication side effects and poor responses make more sense when you evaluate stress physiology (including low cortisol patterns)

• Nurses can create major impact within scope by prioritizing foundations: nutrition, sleep, movement, stress regulation, and lifestyle change support

• New functional providers often overuse supplements; experienced clinicians typically simplify and return to the basics

• Sustainable practice building requires boundaries, community, and a clear niche that patients can understand

Everest Goldstein, PMHNP-BC, IFMCP Founder, Everest Functional Psychiatry and Wellness, and Evergreen Functional Collective

Facebook

Instagram

Elimination diets sound simple on paper, but in real life, they can create confusion, overwhelm, and unexpected setbacks for both nurses and their patients. In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager breaks down the top 7 challenges functional medicine nurses face when guiding clients through an elimination diet, and how to set the stage for success from the start.

You’ll learn how to help patients navigate challenges and avoid common reintroduction mistakes that sabotage their hard work. Topics include:

• How to choose the right timing and “create space” before starting

• Simplifying to reduce overwhelm and prevent burnout

• What to do when patients feel worse before they feel better

• How to handle slip-ups

• Making the reintroduction phase a true experiment with structure and tracking

• Avoiding common mistakes like reintroducing foods during illness or flare-ups

• Why food sensitivities are not the root cause

This episode empowers nurses to guide patients with confidence, empathy, and clarity while also keeping the focus on gut repair, root cause healing, and sustainable behavior change.

Access the full course: A Functional Nursing Approach to Food Reactions

Learn more about IFN's trainings and resources for functional medicine nurses at: https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

Functional Medicine is meant to be about healing the root cause, not just managing symptoms—but not every provider or clinic claiming to practice “FM” is truly doing it. In this powerful episode, I share a personal (and fully permitted) story about a loved one who finally sought Functional Medicine help—only to end up in a clinic focused more on selling expensive labs and supplements than offering real clinical strategy, support, or individualized care.

This isn’t about calling out individuals. It’s about protecting patients—especially those who are vulnerable, overwhelmed, or desperate for answers. I've had this same type of conversation with hundreds of RNs and NPs, and its an all too common problem. Whether you’re navigating chronic illness, searching for integrative support, or trying to help a loved one who’s struggling, this conversation will help you understand how to identify red flags, ask the right questions, and recognize when a provider isn’t truly practicing root-cause Functional Medicine.

 Learn how to vet Functional Medicine providers Discover the red flags of “brand-based” FM vs. process-based FM  Understand why supplement-heavy protocols often miss the mark  Explore the importance of patient readiness before starting care  See why IFM training is a valuable (but not foolproof) signal

If you're looking for ethical, effective, and personalized root-cause care—this episode is for you.

In This Episode:

• Signs a clinic may be using "Functional Medicine" as a sales tactic

• Why supplement-first protocols often backfire

• How to ask better questions before spending thousands

• The role of readiness in healing (and how to support someone who’s not ready yet)

• The value of proper Functional Medicine training (like IFM)

 If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it.

What does it really mean to be a disruptor in healthcare, and why are nurses uniquely positioned to lead that change?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, dives into how functional nurses are challenging outdated models of care and creating better outcomes through root cause healing, lifestyle medicine, prevention, and education.

Drawing from recent insights by Dr. Jeffrey Bland and other functional medicine pioneers, Brigitte explores:

• What makes a functional medicine nurse a disruptor

• Why questioning conventional care is a responsibility, not rebellion

• How functional nurses are transforming care through entrepreneurship, group programs, patient partnerships, and community-based care

She also covers the risks, challenges, and rewards of stepping outside the traditional nursing box — from professional reputation and system limitations to policy reform and values-driven practice.

If you're a nurse who's ever asked, "Why are we doing it this way?" or felt called to practice differently, this episode is your permission slip to lead, innovate, and disrupt with purpose.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP – Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner and Functional Nursing Educator.

In this episode, Brigitte interviews Ryan Obermeier of Evexia Diagnostics to show nurses exactly how to streamline functional lab testing inside a holistic or functional nursing practice.

We break down how Evexia centralizes thousands of functional and specialty tests, simplifies ordering, integrates with systems like Practice Better, and reduces the administrative burden that often slows down new and growing practices.

Ryan explains Evexia’s Internal Physician Network, which supports nurses who need physician authorization for specialty testing, as well as the Ask the Doctor program for clinical interpretation of advanced labs. We also cover Evexia’s Functional Health Report, supply management, troubleshooting support, white-label marketing tools, and how nursing using the link below can access exclusive perks, waived fees, and discounted resources.

Whether you're launching a functional nursing practice or scaling an established clinic, this episode gives you a clear roadmap for improving efficiency, patient outcomes, and clinical confidence through better lab workflows.

What We Cover in This Conversation:

• How Evexia centralizes thousands of functional & specialty lab tests • Streamlined ordering, processing, and automated reporting • EHR integration with Practice Better and other platforms • Functional Health Report for blood chemistry interpretation • Internal Physician Network for non-licensed or collaborating providers • Ask the Doctor program for specialty lab interpretation • Reducing hidden costs, operational friction, and admin overwhelm • White-label and marketing tools available through the link below • How nurses can register and access waived fees + bonus support

Functional Nurses Offer: Register With Evexia Diagnostics

Evexia is extending exclusive benefits for our functional nursing community of RNs and NPs, including waived fees and access to additional support tools.

Create your account here: https://www.evexiadiagnostics.com/lp/brigitte-sager-landing-registration-page

In this episode, we unpack what functional nursing really means and why it’s time nurses had their own language and space in the world of functional medicine.

We’ll talk about:

• The difference between functional medicine and functional nursing
• How this approach aligns with nursing scope and values
• What makes the Institute for Functional Nursing™ unique
• Details on our programs, including the Functional Nursing Program™ (with early bird pricing through Monday, December 1st!)

If you’re a nurse looking for more alignment, purpose, and tools to truly transform patient care, this episode will feel like coming home. Learn more: https://fxnursing.com

Consider starting with our Introduction to Functional Nursing Course. Ready for more?

Our full Functional Nursing Program™ is open for registration with deep discounts through Monday, December 1st.

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP speaks with Megan Kroeker, MSN, NP, IFMCP about her journey into functional medicine, the importance of prioritizing personal health, and the value of functional nursing in today's healthcare landscape. They discuss the challenges and rewards of starting a private practice in Canada, the significance of using timelines in patient care, and the role of intuition in functional nursing. Megan shares insights on building a supportive community among nurses and the future of functional nursing as a vital part of healthcare.

Connect with Megan:

• Visit her website: https://functionalnp.ca/
• Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megankroeker_functionalnp/#
• Find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/functionalnpmegankroeker

💻 Want to stay up to date on the latest in Functional Medicine and nursing? Sign up for the newsletter at: https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional nurse practitioner and holistic nurse educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

✔️ Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fxnursing

This episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast is proudly sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN). At IFN, we equip RNs and NPs with the knowledge, confidence, and community to lead the future of healthcare through root-cause, patient-centered practice. We offer membership programs, continuing education, and a comprehensive, evidence informed education in functional nursing, all grounded in systems biology, clinical relevance, and the nursing process. Learn more about our offerings, upcoming courses, and how to join the movement at: https://www.fxnursing.com

In this solo episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP shares her key takeaways from the PLMI Thought Leaders Consortium, a premier functional healthcare conference founded by Dr. Jeffrey Bland.

Brigitte breaks down emerging themes shaping the future of functional nursing and functional healthcare, including immunometabolism, immune system resilience, epigenetics, personalized care, and affordable ways nurses can assess patient health using wearables and basic lab data like the CBC. She explains how tools such as heart rate variability, sleep data, continuous glucose monitors, and immune inflammatory indexes like SII and SIRI can help nurses track patient progress without relying solely on expensive testing.

This episode also explores important conversations happening in the functional health space around trust, communication, prescriptions, GLP-1 agonists, longevity, cognitive decline, and the evolving role of nurses as disruptors in healthcare. Brigitte reflects on what it means to practice functional nursing with integrity, maintain strong patient provider relationships, and support patients using a true root cause approach.

This episode is ideal for nurses, nurse practitioners, and holistic healthcare professionals who want to stay current on functional health trends, apply conference insights to real world practice, and better understand how nurses are helping shape the future of healthcare.

PLMI Thought Leaders Consortium membership and conference recordings Podcast referenced by Robert Lustig Functional Nursing Summit registration Functional Nursing Program

Brigitte also shares details about the Institute for Functional Nursing, current CE courses, the membership community with live case reviews, and the full functional nursing program launching in early 2026. If you want practical training that is built by nurses for nurses, or if you are wondering how to integrate functional care into your setting, this episode explains how to get started and where to find mentorship and resources.

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing, the premier functional medicine program for nursing professionals. Learn more and join the waitlist at fxnursing.com/learn. Register for the free Redefining the Future of Nursing summit at fxnursing.com/summit.

💻 Want to stay up to date on the latest in Functional Medicine and nursing? Sign up for the newsletter at: https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional nurse practitioner and holistic nurse educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

✔️ Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP

This episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast is proudly sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN). At IFN, we equip RNs and NPs with the knowledge, confidence, and community to lead the future of healthcare through root-cause, patient-centered practice. We offer membership programs, continuing education, and a comprehensive, evidence informed education in functional nursing, all grounded in systems biology, clinical relevance, and the nursing process. Learn more about our offerings, upcoming courses, and how to join the movement at: https://www.fxnursing.com

Be well!

💻 Want to stay up to date on the latest in Functional Medicine and nursing? Sign up for the newsletter at: 𝐡𝐭𝐭𝐩𝐬://𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧.𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐫.𝐜𝐨𝐦/𝐭𝐡𝐞-f𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥-𝐧𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞-𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional nurse practitioner and holistic nurse educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

✔️ Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP

This episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast is proudly sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN). At IFN, we equip RNs and NPs with the knowledge, confidence, and community to lead the future of healthcare through root-cause, patient-centered practice. We offer membership programs, continuing education, and a comprehensive, evidence informed education in functional nursing, all grounded in systems biology, clinical relevance, and the nursing process. Learn more about our offerings, upcoming courses, and how to join the movement at: https://www.fxnursing.com

Be well!

In this episode of the Functional Nursing Podcast, Brigitte Sager sits down with Barb Hudak—former Air Force Major, cardiac ICU nurse, and integrative practitioner—to explore how functional nurses can use nervous system regulation to support patient healing and improve clinical outcomes.

With over 40 years of experience spanning military healthcare, Mayo Clinic leadership, and holistic practice, Barb shares how tools like HeartMath and heart rate variability (HRV) can be applied in real-world nursing to help patients regulate stress, improve resilience, and support recovery from chronic illness.

You’ll learn how nervous system dysregulation contributes to disease, the role of emotional suppression in long-term health, and how nurses can integrate simple, evidence-informed techniques into everyday patient care. This episode bridges the gap between traditional nursing and functional medicine—offering practical strategies you can start using right away.

Whether you're a registered nurse (RN), nurse practitioner (NP), or transitioning into functional or integrative nursing, this conversation will expand how you think about patient care, stress physiology, and healing.

Connect with Barb Hudak:

• Location: Sedona, Arizona
• Website: https://www.heartfulintegrations.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartful.integrations/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@heartfulintegrations1111

Join Us: Be part of the movement shaping the future of nursing:

• Connect with like minded nurses in our IFN Membership Community: learn.fxnursing.com/the-functional-nursing-membership

• Sign up for the Semester Program Waitlist: learn.fxnursing.com/the-functional-nursing-program

• Save your spot for our Summit in November: fxnursing.com/summit

💻 Want to stay up to date on the latest in Functional Medicine and nursing? Sign up for the newsletter at: https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter-sign-up to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional nurse practitioner and holistic nurse educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

✔️ Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP

This episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast is proudly sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN). At IFN, we equip RNs and NPs with the knowledge, confidence, and community to lead the future of healthcare through root-cause, patient-centered practice. We offer membership programs, continuing education, and a comprehensive, evidence informed education in functional nursing, all grounded in systems biology, clinical relevance, and the nursing process. Learn more about our offerings, upcoming courses, and how to join the movement at: https://www.fxnursing.com

Be well!

Want to dive deeper? Visit https://www.fxnursing.com/learn to explore the Holistic Nursing Entrepreneur Program and other courses designed to support your growth as a functional nurse.

💻 Want to stay up to date on the latest in Functional Medicine and nursing? Sign up for the newsletter at: https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter-sign-up to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional nurse practitioner and holistic nurse educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

✔️ Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing, the premier functional medicine program for nursing professionals. Learn more at https://www.fxnursing.com/

Be well!

Connect with Ashley:

Website: https://www.risefxmed.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyshrader_np/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleyshraderdnp

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator https://www.brigittesager.com/

Love the episode? Spread the word! Share it with fellow nurses on social media, send it in a quick text, or listen together right here. You can also pass along the link to our website and podcast, and don’t miss our new video episodes now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP

Be well!

Connect with Tamra:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamra-geryk-9429673 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tk_geryk/ 

Website: https://www.ritualwomenshealth.com/

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator https://www.brigittesager.com/

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

Connect with Lindsay:

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator https://www.brigittesager.com/

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

Connect with Sarah:

Website: https://www.wellnesswriter.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahcook.wellnesswriter/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahcooknd

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://www.brigittesager.com/BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

Connect with Shantrece:

Website: https://fhytewell.com Instagram: @fhytewellness Facebook: facebook.com/fhytewell LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/shantrece-davis-dnp-fhytewell

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/fhytewell?utm_source=linktree_admin_share

Freebie: 7 Day FhyteWell Reset Guide: https://tr.ee/MfAoO0SZGp

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://www.brigittesager.com/BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

IFM 2026 AIC: https://www.ifm.org/aic

Catalyzing and Promoting Functional Medicine Research: https://www.ifm.org/about/research

💻 Want to stay up to date on the latest in Functional Medicine and nursing? Sign up for the newsletter at: https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter-sign-up to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional nurse practitioner and holistic nurse educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

✔️ Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP 

Be well!

Ways to connect with Laura:

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://www.brigittesager.com/BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

💻 Want to stay up to date on the latest in Functional Medicine and nursing? Sign up for the newsletter at: https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter-sign-up to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a Functional Medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

✔️ Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP 

Be well!

🎉 Special Offer for Listeners! Get 20% off for 4 months when you sign up through our exclusive link: 👉 https://practicebetter.partnerlinks.io/Functional-Nurse-Podcast 

Follow Practice Better on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/practicebetter 

Also on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/practicebetter 

And Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/practicebetter/ 

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://www.brigittesager.com/BrigitteSager.com.  Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager breaks down exactly how nurses and nurse practitioners can get their foot in the door in functional and integrative medicine. Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, working in a clinic, or expanding your role within a traditional healthcare setting, this episode provides a clear roadmap for taking the next step in your career.

Brigitte explores practical strategies for creating opportunities where none currently exist, including advocating for new roles, launching group medical visits, and offering patient education programs that improve outcomes while reducing provider burnout. She also discusses the growing need for nurses in functional medicine practices, the limitations of traditional care models, and how nurses can bridge the gap by focusing on root-cause care, lifestyle education, and holistic support. If you're a nurse ready to move beyond task-based care and step into a more impactful, patient-centered role, this episode will give you both the strategy and confidence to get started.

🤝🏼 Connect with Bev via her website: https://purelypresenthealth.com/

Find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purelypresenthealth/ 

And follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purelypresenthealth/ 

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

💻 Want to stay updated on the latest in functional medicine and nursing? Sign up for my newsletter at: https://learn.fxnursing.com/newsletter-sign-up to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

Be well!

💻 Want to stay updated on the latest in functional medicine and nursing? Sign up for my newsletter at: https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

✔️ Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP 

Be well!

Brooke also shares insights from her memoir, 'Dispensing Pills, Popping Pills,' highlighting the importance of vulnerability and connection in overcoming personal struggles. In this conversation, Brigitte Sager DNP and Brooke Forsythe discuss the transformative journey of nurse coaching, emphasizing the importance of empowering clients, the challenges of building a coaching business, and the profound impact of nursing on mental health. They explore the dynamics of coaching, the necessity of self-discovery, and the significance of personal growth in both nursing and coaching practices.

💞 Connect with Brooke through her website: https://www.forsythewellnesscoaching.com/

📖 Buy her book: https://a.co/d/dZUOOfD

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

• Learn more about the HNEP: https://learn.brigittesager.com/

💻 Want to stay updated on the latest in functional medicine and nursing? Sign up for my newsletter at: https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP 

Be well! 🌿

• AANP Health Policy Conference 2025: https://www.aanp.org/events/2025-hpc
• Farm to School Program: https://www.farmtoschool.org/
• Functional Nursing Membership: https://learn.fxnursing.com/the-functional-nursing-membership

💻 Want to stay updated on the latest in functional medicine and nursing? Sign up for my newsletter at: https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP Functional Nursing educator. https://www.brigittesager.com/

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP 

Be well!

👋🏼 Connect with Karina via her website: www.theeuzenlanding.org 

And follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karina_rn_360_livingwell/

and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/karinayong-landing_the-eu-zen-landing-activity-7236837913919922176-5poR

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://www.brigittesager.com/BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP Functional Nurse educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

Link to Brigitte's Full Script Dispensary: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/manifestwellbeing/store-start

💻 Want to stay updated on the latest in functional medicine and nursing? Sign up for my newsletter at https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrigitteSagerNP 

Be well!

In this conversation, Andrew Newland and Brigitte Sager, DNP delve into the fundamentals of SEO, including technical aspects, content creation, and local SEO strategies. The discussion emphasizes the need for consistency in marketing efforts and the significance of measuring success through key performance indicators. The conversation aims to empower healthcare professionals, especially nurses, to enhance their digital presence and connect with their communities effectively.

🤝 Connect with Andrew via his website: www.functionalmedmarketing.com

And follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/functionalmedicine_marketing 

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

The conversation dives deep into the realities of entrepreneurship, from overcoming roadblocks and marketing challenges to the determination it takes to "get in the door." The group shares candid insights on staying motivated, pushing boundaries, and embracing continuous growth as healthcare innovators.

Tune in to hear how entrepreneurship has reshaped their nursing careers, opened doors to new possibilities, and empowered them to transform patient care through functional medicine. This episode is a must-listen for any nurse considering a path of independence and impact in healthcare.

Ashley Braaten, RN: Podcast episode: https://youtu.be/jTqsqY5JCtM

Rose Acholla, MSN APRN FNP-C RN NC: Podcast episode: https://youtu.be/7DCeOsJHwv8 

Owner of Integrative Wellness, you can visit her website and follow her on Instagram & Facebook

Rebekah Sireci BSN, RN: Podcast episode: https://youtu.be/3V1b5eYmglE

Owner of Bare Health Co., you can visit her website and follow her on Instagram

Nicole Vienneau, MSN, RN, NC-BC: Podcast episode: https://youtu.be/zWO5v5uKawQ 

Owner of Blue Monarch Health & Restoration Room, you can visit her websites Blue Monarch Health & Restoration room and follow her on Facebook / Facebook & Instagram / Instagram

Chelsea McGee, RN, BSN, NC-BC: Podcast episode: https://youtu.be/UgawRS-JkNU

Owner of Atlas Health Co, you can visit her website and follow her on Instagram

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 

Be well!

Join the waitlist for The Functional Nursing Program™ https://fxnursing.com/

The Functional Nursing Membership™ https://learn.fxnursing.com/the-functional-nursing-membership 

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this linkto the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

The episode also offers a behind-the-scenes look at Samantha's efforts to build a business that combines her creative energy with her commitment to helping others. She candidly discusses the challenges of starting something new, from choosing a website platform to investing in branding, and the fulfillment she finds in balancing teaching, functional medicine, and entrepreneurship. Samantha highlights the importance of slowing down, prioritizing self-care, and supporting others—whether they’re overwhelmed parents, busy professionals, or healthcare workers—to achieve healthier, more balanced lives. The video serves as a motivating call to action for anyone looking to find holistic solutions and make meaningful changes.

🤝 Connect with Samantha via her website and follow her on Instagram

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 📱

Be well!

From cutting-edge research to actionable strategies, PLMI continues to lead the way in integrating personalized lifestyle medicine into healthcare. As functional nurses and practitioners, staying ahead of these trends is essential for empowering patients and creating meaningful change in our system.

💡 If you’ve been curious about what’s next for personalized care in healthcare, this is the episode for you!

For more about PLMI, including their membership benefits, visit: https://plminstitute.org.

💻 Want to stay updated on the latest in functional medicine and nursing? Sign up for my newsletter at https://learn.brigittesager.com/the-functional-nurse-newsletter to never miss an update.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 

Be well!

Operating in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, her mission is to provide personalized care, especially for underserved populations in their 40's to 60's, empowering them to take control of their health and wellness journey. She is especially passionate about working with clients on managing chronic disease, promoting wellness, and empowering women through their hormonal shifts and life transitions. Throughout, Rose highlights the importance of meeting clients where they are, tailoring care plans to fit each individual’s goals, needs, and capacity for change.

🖊️ You can connect with Rose via her website: https://msha.ke/revitalizewellnesswithrose 

And you can follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/revitalizewellnesswithrose/ 

and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564615112459 

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 

Be well!

Brigitte invites nurses to apply for the Founders Launch, which will include small group sessions twice a month. Participants will help shape the content of the full program, ensuring it addresses the real-world challenges they face. The program will include expert insights on business topics such as legal considerations, marketing, and healthcare documentation. The Founders will also receive full access to the program upon its official launch in early 2025.

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 

Be well!

Rebekah also discusses her transition to the U.S., where she continued her work in oncology but felt something was missing from the conventional medical approach. This realization led her to explore functional medicine, which blends traditional treatments with holistic practices like diet and lifestyle changes. As a functional medicine nurse and holistic health coach, Rebekah is passionate about addressing the root causes of illness and empowering individuals to take control of their health. Tune in to hear about her fascinating career path, the lessons she’s learned from her patients, and the powerful connection between mindset, functional medicine, and healing.

🖊️ You can connect with Rebekah via her website: http://www.barehealthco.com

And you can follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barehealthco_/ 

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 

Be well!

Brigitte also delves into building confidence in new roles, mentorship, and the growing need for business support for functional nurses. Whether you're a seasoned RN or just stepping into functional medicine, this episode offers key insights and practical information to support your journey.

To read the AJN article, use this link https://journals.lww.com/ajnonline/fulltext/2024/10000/functional_medicine_in_nursing.19.aspx?context=featuredarticles&collectionid=1

To stay up to date with the latest and upcoming, please sign up for my newsletter by visiting BrigitteSager.com.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 

Be well!

Brigitte and Jaz explore how functional medicine and holistic nursing can reconnect patients to core health principles, such as nutrition, emotional well-being, and mindfulness. They discuss the importance of gut health, stress management, and taking time to slow down in a world that often prioritizes speed. This episode is an insightful resource for RNs, NPs, and holistic nurse coaches eager to learn more about functional nursing practices.

You can connect with Jazmine via her website: www.jazmine-reyes.com  

Jazmine's blog: https://jazminereyes.substack.com/ 

And you can follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raw.holistics/ 

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

This episode and others now available to watch via YouTube here!

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!

Brigitte highlights the connection between functional medicine and traditional nursing, encouraging RNs and NPs to embrace entrepreneurship, leadership, and holistic approaches to healthcare. She explains how functional nursing can not only improve patient outcomes but also position nurses as key players in healthcare innovation. Whether you're an RN, NP, or holistic nurse coach, this episode provides valuable insights into how functional medicine can revolutionize patient care.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 

Be well!

Brigitte addresses the differences between calling oneself a nurse coach versus a health coach and the legal and professional implications. She explains the importance of protecting the nurse’s license and adhering to scope of practice laws, especially in different states.

Key points covered in this episode:

Nurse Coaching vs. Health Coaching: Brigitte explains that while “nurse coaching” might confuse people (they may think it’s about coaching nurses), removing the title of nurse to be a health coach can cause issues. Nurses have legal scope of practice requirements that health coaches do not. She emphasizes that nurses are trusted professionals, and keeping the title “nurse” can be an advantage.

Legal Risks: Nurses must be cautious when crossing state lines with their services. Referring to oneself as a health coach and practicing outside of one’s licensed states can lead to legal investigations. Nurses should always work within their state licenses and scope of practice.

Advanced Practice Nurses: For nurse practitioners, midwives, and CRNAs, they are always held to their highest level of licensure. Brigitte advises seeking legal counsel when expanding beyond the typical scope of their advanced practice.

Billing Opportunities for Nurses: Unlike health coaches, registered nurses can bill for services in a clinic setting. RNs can perform group visits, nursing visits, and coaching visits that are billable through insurance. Nurse coaches can provide services that directly benefit a clinic and its patients, offering more comprehensive care than health coaches can.

Brigitte encourages nurses to proudly use their title, emphasizing that being a “nurse coach” has significant value for patients and the healthcare system. It also protects the nurse's hard-earned license while ensuring they are working within their scope of practice.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 

Be well!

Key insights from the episode include:

Pamela’s unique journey from lay midwife to nurse coach, including her early hesitance toward allopathic medicine and her eventual embrace of integrative practices.

The profound impact of learning nurse coaching and functional medicine, highlighting her transformative experience working with Dr. Barbara Dossey and the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy.

How functional medicine has shaped Pamela’s approach to education, emphasizing root cause analysis and holistic care to combat burnout in nursing.

Pamela’s reflections on her teaching role at Oklahoma City University and how she empowers her students to trust their intuition and embrace the full scope of nursing care.

The importance of supporting healthcare professionals in navigating stress and burnout through mindfulness, functional medicine, and holistic self-care practices.

Pamela and Brigitte also discuss the future of holistic nursing and the growing opportunities for nurse coaches to collaborate with healthcare providers, improving patient care while creating more sustainable careers for nurses.

You can find Pamela via her website: https://nurturepathcoaching.com/

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

This episode and others now available to watch via YouTube here!

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!

Key highlights include:

The differences between medical and nursing diagnoses, with an emphasis on how functional medicine focuses on the "why" behind health conditions rather than just the symptoms.

The use of NANDA stems in nursing diagnoses, offering examples that connect nursing diagnoses to nutrition, functional medicine, and patient care.

How nursing diagnoses fit within the scope of nursing practice and the importance of applying the nursing process (ADPIE) when caring for patients.

Empowering nurses to use their foundational nursing skills to support holistic patient care and how this process plays a crucial role in functional medicine.

Brigitte encourages nurses to feel confident in their ability to assess and diagnose patients within the scope of nursing practice and develop effective care plans based on the root causes of health concerns.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 

Be well!

Chelsea discusses the importance of self-healing and self-love, particularly how releasing trauma and negative self-talk has helped both her and her clients achieve greater health. She dives into her practice's focus on holistic approaches, ranging from functional medicine and energy healing to biohacking with tools like the BrainTap device.

Key highlights include:

Chelsea’s transition from conventional medicine to holistic nursing.

The role of self-love and healing in nursing and patient care.

Insights into biohacking for patient awareness without over-relying on data.

The science behind sound healing and meditation, focusing on brainwave patterns and the nervous system.

Her thoughts on leading wellness retreats and empowering clients and nurses through holistic practices.

You can find Chelsea via her website: https://www.atlashealthco.com/

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

This episode and others now available to watch via YouTube here!

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!

From insights on functional medicine’s role in addressing root causes of chronic disease to inspiring discussions on improving healthcare outcomes, this episode is full of valuable takeaways for nurses interested in functional medicine.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

This episode and others now available to watch on YouTube!

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!

What does functional medicine look like when practiced through the lens of 35 years of nursing experience?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, interviews Monique Class, MSN, ARNP, IFMCP, a board-certified family nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist in holistic health. Together, they explore how functional medicine, holistic nursing, and systems biology come together in real-world practice.

Monique shares her unconventional path into nursing and how mind-body medicine, integrative care, and therapeutic partnership shaped her clinical philosophy long before functional medicine had a name. She explains why functional medicine became “home” — a science-based, patient-centered model that blends biochemistry with story and relationship.

You’ll hear real clinical examples of root cause care in action, including:

• Toxin exposure and environmental triggers

• Mitochondrial dysfunction and energy restoration

• Asking better clinical questions: “When were you last well?”

• Using IFM tools to streamline patient education

• Running an efficient functional practice without relying on excessive testing

Monique and Brigitte also discuss how coaching skills support sustainable behavior change and why nursing scope, clarity, and confidence are essential in personalized care.

This episode is essential listening for RNs and APRNs who want to practice functional or holistic medicine ethically, efficiently, and with professional confidence.

Explore functional nursing education and mentorship at: www.fxnursing.com

Imposter syndrome in nursing is more common than we admit — and it often intensifies when stepping into functional medicine, holistic nursing, leadership, or advanced practice roles.

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, explores why nurses at every level — from new grads and charge nurses to nurse practitioners and educators — experience self-doubt when their responsibilities expand. She explains why confidence often lags behind competence, especially when practicing root-cause, systems-based care.

Brigitte shares practical, nurse-tested strategies to move forward with clarity and professionalism:

• How to build confidence through clinical application

• Why mentorship and peer support matter in functional nursing

• Reframing negative self-talk and strengthening professional identity

• A simple readiness framework: If you can explain the “why,” you’re ready to begin

She also offers two important cautions for nurses expanding into holistic or functional practice:

1. Avoid offering services for free just to “practice”

2. Be thoughtful about treating friends and family while building new skills

Whether you’re a new grad nurse, charge nurse, nurse practitioner, educator, or entrepreneur, this episode will help you normalize imposter feelings and develop grounded, ethical confidence in your evolving nursing role.

Explore functional nursing education and mentorship at: www.fxnursing.com

If you missed the symposium, this episode provides a valuable recap and highlights some must-know topics for nurses looking to expand their practice into functional and holistic nursing.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!

Discover how nurses are transforming patient care through the lens of functional and integrative medicine. In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP, sits down with Rita Wadhwani, RN, MSN, ACNP, CNS, RNC-NIC, explore her inspiring shift from conventional ICU nursing to a root-cause, holistic approach grounded in biochemistry, gut health, and lifestyle medicine.

Rita shares how optimizing stomach acid, balancing the microbiome, and deprescribing medications like PPIs can dramatically improve digestion, chronic disease outcomes, and overall well-being. With over 25 years of experience, Rita empowers nurses to apply functional medicine principles to their practice—and their lives.

This conversation is packed with actionable takeaways for nurses, practitioners, and anyone passionate about integrative healthcare.

Connect with Rita Wadhwani Website: https://www.ibiomehealthcare.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ibiome_holisticnp/

Hosted by: Brigitte Sager, DNP – Functional medicine NP and RN/NP educator.

Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode with fellow nurses and practitioners!

What happens when nurses start asking why—why symptoms are showing up, why healthcare is failing so many patients, and why they became nurses in the first place?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager explores how functional medicine begins with asking deeper questions—about the patient, the root cause, and the system. She shares how functional nursing is not about abandoning conventional care, but about expanding it through critical thinking, advocacy, and education.

You’ll also hear how burnout, task-driven care, and systemic pressures can leave nurses feeling disconnected from their purpose—and how functional medicine offers a pathway back to meaningful, patient-centered work. Whether you're working in the hospital, clinic, or community, this episode will remind you of the power you already have to lead change—simply by asking, “Why?”

• Functional nursing starts when nurses ask why—not just how to manage symptoms

• Root cause care personalizes treatment based on the whole person, not just the diagnosis

• Nurses can apply functional principles right now through education and patient advocacy

• Burnout is often a signal of misalignment—functional medicine can reconnect nurses with purpose

• Today’s patients want personalized, meaningful care—and nurses are perfectly positioned to offer it

• You don’t need to diagnose or prescribe to practice functional medicine ethically and effectively

Want to turn your clinical curiosity into functional nursing skills?

Explore the Institute for Functional Nursing's current course offerings at: https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

In this inspiring episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, sits down with Melissa Armstrong, BSN, RN, HWNC-BC, a board-certified nurse coach and functional medicine practitioner who left her career in the Pediatric ICU to build a thriving virtual wellness business.

Melissa shares her personal journey through chronic fatigue, unresolved trauma, anxiety, and gut issues, and how those challenges led her to discover the power of functional medicine. Now the founder of Holistic Health, LLC, Melissa works with women to uncover and address root causes of illness through coaching, lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and functional lab testing.

In this episode, Brigitte and Melissa explore:

• How to blend nurse coaching with functional medicine principles

• Navigating scope of practice as a nurse entrepreneur

• Building a virtual business using nurse coaching and high-touch programs

• How to charge your worth and create sustainable pricing

• The growing demand for holistic health services

• Empowering patients with trauma-informed care and education

Whether you're a nurse exploring holistic care, looking to leave the traditional model, or dreaming of launching your own business — this conversation will leave you motivated and equipped with actionable insights.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP – Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Coach, and Functional Nurse Educator.

• Instagram: @holistichealthbymelissa

• Facebook: Holistic Health by Melissa

• Website: https://holistichealthbymelissa.com

• Podcast: Holistic Health with Melissa

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager tackles a common misconception in healthcare: is functional medicine really not covered by insurance? She breaks down what functional medicine actually is—rooted in holistic nursing, patient education, and lifestyle-based care—and explains how these principles can absolutely be incorporated into insurance-based practice.

This episode explores the realities of billing, time constraints, and how providers can strategically use wellness visits, preventative care, and documentation to justify spending more time educating patients. Brigitte also shares her perspective on the balance between insurance-based care and cash-based functional medicine practices, highlighting why both models are necessary in today’s healthcare system. If you're a nurse or nurse practitioner wondering how to integrate functional medicine into your current role—or considering starting your own practice—this episode provides clarity, practical strategies, and a new way of thinking about accessible, patient-centered care.

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, sits down with Julie Davey, NP, a nurse practitioner and functional medicine educator with over 25 years of experience. Julie shares her journey from traditional healthcare to a gut-health-focused functional medicine practice, and how nutrition, lifestyle interventions, and holistic thinking transformed both her clinical approach and her career.

Together, Brigitte and Julie explore how nurses can use food as medicine, functional lab testing, and root cause care to support patients in healing from chronic issues like fatigue, digestive problems, inflammation, and more. They also discuss the mental shifts required when stepping away from the conventional model—including overcoming imposter syndrome and fully owning your value as a nurse provider.

If you’re a nurse or nurse practitioner considering a functional or holistic approach to patient care, this episode offers inspiration and actionable advice on how to start small, grow with confidence, and help patients in deeper, more meaningful ways.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP – Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner and RN/NP Functional Nurse Educator.

• Website: https://www.julieannwellness.com

• Instagram: @julieannwellness

• Facebook: Julie Ann Wellness

• Rupa University: https://www.rupauniversity.com/instructors/julie-davey

“What should I call myself?”

It’s one of the most common questions nurses ask when stepping into functional medicine, integrative care, lifestyle medicine, or holistic nursing practice.

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, breaks down the practical and ethical differences between common titles such as:

• Functional Nurse

• Functional Medicine Nurse

• Holistic Nurse

• Integrative Nurse

• Lifestyle Medicine Nurse

• Consultant vs Practitioner

She explains how to choose a professional title that:

 Aligns with your state scope of practice  Reflects what you offer  Matches patient expectations  Supports ethical marketing  Avoids overstating certification or credentials

She reinforces that the true marker of functional practice is not the label — it’s whether you consistently ask “why?” and apply root-cause, systems-based thinking.

This episode is essential listening for nurses building a functional or holistic practice who want to lead with clarity, professionalism, and integrity.

Explore functional nursing education at: www.fxnursing.com

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP interviews Lindsey Buhl, RN, BSN about the essential role of functional nursing in preventive care, chronic disease management, and patient transformation. Lindsey shares how she blends functional medicine with conventional nursing to improve outcomes, reduce hospitalizations, and support long-term healing.

You’ll learn:

• How functional nursing complements conventional healthcare

• Practical strategies for lifestyle change, nutrition, and patient education

• Root-cause approaches to chronic symptoms and metabolic health

• Ways nurses can empower patients to become informed participants in their care

• How preventive, whole-person care improves outcomes at every level

Whether you're an RN, NP, or simply passionate about functional medicine and holistic healthcare, this episode offers practical insights you can apply right away.

You can find and follow Lindsey on her YouTube channel and social below:

https://www.youtube.com/@RevivalHealthRN 

https://www.instagram.com/revivalhealthrn/ 

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner and nurse educator, dives into an important and often challenging topic for nurse entrepreneurs: knowing your worth as a nurse.

Brigitte explores why nurses frequently undervalue their time, expertise, and lived experience—especially when transitioning from corporate or insurance-based healthcare into functional medicine, holistic nursing, or entrepreneurship. She discusses the challenges nurses face when pricing services, setting healthy boundaries, and shifting away from productivity-driven care models.

This episode covers:

• Why nurses struggle with pricing and self-worth

• Per-visit pricing versus package-based care

• The importance of charging appropriately for holistic and functional care

• How underpricing can impact boundaries and sustainability

• Why valuing your work leads to better commitment and outcomes

Rather than focusing on complex business strategies, this episode is about mindset, clarity, and empowerment—helping nurses recognize the value they already bring to healthcare and feel more confident offering services that align with their expertise.

This is a must-listen for nurses and nurse practitioners who are considering entrepreneurship, exploring functional or holistic nursing, or already offering services and want to build a practice that is ethical, sustainable, and aligned with their values.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP — Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Coach, and RN & NP Functional Nurse Educator.

If this episode resonates, consider sharing it with another nurse who needs this reminder. You can listen together, share the link, or pass it along on social media.

Is functional medicine misunderstood—or is it being misrepresented?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, FNP makes the case that functional medicine has a branding problem—and explains why nurses are uniquely positioned to help fix it.

She defines what functional medicine is supposed to be: root cause care grounded in biochemistry, lifestyle, environment, and systems thinking—not expensive tests, stacks of supplements, or trendy health claims.

Brigitte breaks down three key factors driving the confusion:

1. Overuse of functional lab testing that doesn’t change the plan of care

2. Profiteering around supplements without clear clinical rationale

3. Unlicensed or undertrained individuals using the term "functional medicine"

You’ll also hear her framework for ethical, clear, and patient-centered practice:

• Focus on low-hanging fruit first (sleep, digestion, stress, diet, exposures)

• Use testing only if it changes the clinical plan

• Be crystal clear about why supplements are used, what they’re for, and how long they’re needed

• Frame care as education, partnership, and physiology-based support within nursing scope

Finally, Brigitte explores how nurses can shift the narrative—by using the language of nursing, role modeling results, sharing evidence-based strategies, and choosing accurate, ethical framing like “holistic nursing” when appropriate.

This is a must-listen for nurses, NPs, and nurse educators working to restore trust in functional care and deliver it with clarity, integrity, and clinical rigor.

Explore nursing-centered functional training at https://www.fxnursing.com

In this powerful interview, Brigitte Sager, DNP sits down with Dr. Terry Wahls, MD, IFM Certified Practitioner and author of The Wahls Protocol, to explore how a functional medicine and lifestyle-based approach transformed her experience with progressive multiple sclerosis.

Dr. Wahls shares her deeply personal journey—from worsening MS symptoms and wheelchair dependence to regaining function and biking again—and how this experience reshaped her clinical practice and research focus. Together, they discuss the science behind cellular health, mitochondrial function, and why diet and lifestyle interventions play a critical role in neurological and autoimmune conditions.

This conversation also dives into the real-world challenges of nutrition research, including adherence, family dynamics, and the need for education and behavior-change support. Dr. Wahls highlights growing evidence showing improvements in fatigue, quality of life, and daily function for people with MS using dietary and lifestyle strategies alongside conventional care.

Importantly, this episode emphasizes the essential role of nursing professionals in helping patients implement sustainable lifestyle changes, monitor progress, and navigate care safely as health improves.

This episode offers hope grounded in science and is essential listening for nurses, clinicians, and anyone interested in functional medicine, MS, and food as medicine.

Learn more about functional nursing education and training at https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

• Dr. Wahls’ progression from MS diagnosis to severe disability and functional recovery

• The role of mitochondria and cellular health in healing

• Why nutrition studies are difficult—and what real-life success actually requires

• Evidence supporting dietary interventions for MS-related fatigue and quality of life

• Framing lifestyle and functional medicine as “creating health” alongside disease management

• Why nurses are essential for education, behavior change, and long-term success

• How identifying a patient’s personal “why” drives sustainable change

Dr. Wahls is the author of:

• The Wahls Protocol: A Radical New Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles

• The Wahls Protocol Cooking for Life: The Revolutionary Modern Paleo Plan to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions

You can find and follow Dr. Wahls here:

• Website

• Facebook

Are your hormone patients still struggling with symptoms like PMS, fatigue, mood swings, or irregular cycles — even when labs look normal?

In this episode, hormone expert Dr. Carrie Jones joins us for a high-level conversation on the often-overlooked connection between gut health and hormone symptoms. From estrogen metabolism and detox pathways to functional hormone testing and lifestyle interventions, we explore how these systems are more connected than most RNs and NPs are taught in conventional training.

We discuss the clinical patterns many nurses are seeing in practice — hormone symptoms that don’t resolve with standard protocols — and how a functional medicine lens can shift the approach.

Whether you're working with women in perimenopause, teens with irregular cycles, or men with hormone-related concerns, this episode offers practical insights and a new way to think about persistent hormone issues.

Website: www.drcarriejones.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.carriejones/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-root-cause-medicine-podcast/id1589219026

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager interviews Bev Mazza, an integrative registered nurse and founder of Purely Present Health, who specializes in stress management, mindfulness, and behavior change. Bev shares her unique journey from psychology and veterinary medicine into nursing, and ultimately into functional and integrative care, where she now helps clients address the root causes of chronic health issues through lifestyle and mindset shifts.

This conversation dives deep into why stress is often the missing link in chronic illness, weight struggles, poor sleep, and burnout. Bev explains how simple, accessible tools like breathwork and mindful awareness can create powerful shifts in health outcomes without the need for complex testing or interventions. They also explore scope of practice for nurses, entrepreneurship, and how foundational habits like sleep, nutrition, and stress management can transform patient outcomes. If you're a nurse, health professional, or someone navigating chronic health challenges, this episode will help you rethink where true healing begins.

• Location: Westborough, Massachusetts
• Business: Purely Present Health
• Website: https://purelypresenthealth.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purelypresenthealth/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purelypresenthealth

🎙️ Tune in to learn how functional nurses can provide impactful care by addressing root causes instead of relying on complex tests or medications, and how to work with patients to meet their readiness for change.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!

Brigitte highlights the insights of renowned speakers, including Dr. Deanna Minich on melatonin's role beyond sleep, Dr. Kenneth Pelletier on longevity and epigenetics, and Dr. Dale Bredesen on Alzheimer's prevention and reversal. This episode also explores how loneliness and trauma impact health, emphasizing nurses' unique role in supporting patients holistically.

https://plminstitute.org/ 

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!

They discuss clinical decision-making, scope considerations, supplement quality, patient education, and the workflow strategies that help nurses build clear, consistent, and sustainable treatment plans. Dr. Lucille also shares how she uses Fullscript to streamline supplement recommendations, improve adherence, and simplify follow-up.

• How nurses and NPs can use supplements safely and within scope

• Choosing high-quality, cost-conscious supplement options

• How Fullscript automations support adherence and reduce nurse workload

• Ways to set clear expectations around dosing, timelines, and symptom changes

• How to teach the clinical “why” behind every recommendation

• Practical workflow tips for nurses integrating functional and naturopathic approaches

• Guidance for nurses transitioning into functional and integrative care

This conversation is packed with practical strategies for RNs, NPs, and any nurse looking to build functional medicine skills and confidently incorporate supplements into patient care.

Fullscript for practitioners:

http://us.fullscript.com/practitioner-signup/manifest-wellbeing

Connect with Dr. Holly Lucille:

https://www.drhollylucille.com/

Courses & Training for Functional Nursing Practice including IFN's Functional Nursing Program™ (Functional Nursing education, membership, and programs for RNs & NPs):

https://fxnursing.com 

This episode is sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN): Functional Medicine, Reimagined for Nurses.

If you're enjoying the Functional Nurse Podcast™, subscribe and share it with a nurse friend.  

#functionalnursing #nursepractitioner #nursesupport #integrativemedicine #functionalmedicine

Learn more: https://www.fxnursing.com

Watch the Functional Nursing Program™ info session: https://learn.fxnursing.com/InfoSession

Explore our Functional Nursing Membership™: https://learn.fxnursing.com/the-functional-nursing-membership 

Listen to the Functional Nursing Podcast™: https://www.fxnursing.com/podcast

Trying to figure out your next step in functional medicine as an RN or NP?

This episode breaks down exactly how nurses can navigate functional medicine education, certification options, and career pathways—so you can confidently choose the right training and build a sustainable functional nursing practice.

You’ll learn the major differences between programs designed for nurses vs. general wellness learners, what to know about IFM & IFMCP certification, how to evaluate credibility, and how to choose the best next course for your goals. We also cover how functional medicine fits into real-world nursing workflows—from primary care to integrative clinics to independent practice.

• How to choose your next functional medicine course as an RN or NP • Key differences between programs built for licensed nurses vs. non-clinical learners • What IFM, IFMCP certification, and advanced practice modules actually mean • How to identify credible educators and evidence-based functional medicine training • Ways nurses are integrating functional medicine into both clinical and independent practice • How to stay connected through conferences, peer communities, and continuing education • Why nursing foundations naturally align with functional and root-cause care

This conversation is perfect for RNs, NPs, holistic nurses, nurse coaches, integrative practitioners, and any clinician exploring functional medicine education.

What happens when a burned-out hospital RN discovers root cause care?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, interviews Lauren Briggs, RN, board certified nurse coach, about her transition from traditional hospital nursing to private practice using functional medicine and nurse coaching.

Lauren shares how gut health, hormone balance, and timeline mapping transformed not only her patients’ chronic migraines and digestive issues — but her own career path.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How extended intake visits and functional timeline mapping reveal root causes

• Why gut dysfunction and hormone imbalance contribute to chronic migraines

• Why functional nurses move beyond “Band-Aid medicine” toward systems-based healing

• How nurse coaching bridges knowledge and sustainable lifestyle change

• What it takes to build confidence in private practice as an RN

• How entrepreneurship can restore purpose after healthcare burnout

This conversation is ideal for:

 Nurses experiencing burnout  RNs exploring private practice or entrepreneurship  Functional medicine nurses  Women struggling with migraines, gut health, or hormone imbalance  Nurses seeking a patient-centered, root cause model of care

If you’re ready to rethink both healing and your nursing career, this episode offers practical insight and inspiration.

Explore functional nursing education at: www.fxnursing.com

Lauren Briggs, RN, BSN, HWNC-BC, NC-BC

Practice: Practical Medicine Location: Stamford, Connecticut Website: https://www.practical-medicine.com/

Functional medicine lab testing can be a powerful clinical tool, but when used too early or too often, it can also increase cost, delay care, and create unnecessary anxiety for patients. So how do nurses decide when testing truly adds value and when it’s better to focus on foundations first?

In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, CNE breaks down the popular “test, don’t guess” philosophy through a practical, nurse-centered lens. She reviews common functional medicine labs, and shares which tests she finds most useful in real-world practice, and which she often skips.

You’ll learn how functional medicine nurses can ethically and confidently use test results to support root-cause healing without over-testing or over-relying on labs. This episode provides a clear decision-making framework to help you determine whether a test will actually change the plan of care or if fundamentals like sleep, stress regulation, nutrition, and lifestyle interventions should come first.

Whether you’re a functional nurse or nurse practitioner, this conversation will help you use labs more strategically, responsibly, and effectively- and in your scope of practice.

Learn more about IFN's programs for RNs and NPs at https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

In this episode, we explore how nurses can use functional medicine, holistic nursing, and nurse coaching to support women in midlife while also building meaningful, sustainable nursing practices.

Brigitte is joined by Nicole Vienneau, MSN, RN, NC-BC, a leading nurse coach known for creating powerful group experiences—from healing circles to coaching programs that help nurses reconnect with purpose, reduce burnout, and guide women through the physical and emotional changes of midlife.

You’ll hear big-picture insights on how nurses can blend functional medicine with holistic modalities, build community-based programs, and support midlife women through evidence-informed lifestyle and wellness strategies.

• How functional medicine and holistic nursing intersect in real practice • The rise of nurse coaching and community-based care models • Supporting women in perimenopause and menopause with lifestyle approaches • How group coaching can expand your impact as a nurse • Creating communities that help nurses heal, lead, and thrive • Building a career aligned with purpose, autonomy, and whole-person care

This conversation is ideal for holistic nurses, functional medicine nurses, nurse coaches, and any clinician passionate about midlife women’s health, community care, and integrative practice.

Brigitte also shares real-life examples from her own practice, along with strategies for talking to friends and family who may not be ready to hear functional medicine advice. Whether you're a functional nurse, nurse practitioner, or nurse coach, this episode will give you practical tools to navigate patient motivation and help them move forward on their health journeys.

Key Takeaways:

The Trans Theoretical Model: A breakdown of the stages of change and how to apply them in patient care.

How to evaluate patient readiness for change in functional medicine and holistic nursing.

Practical strategies for working with clients and patients not yet ready for lifestyle changes.

Tools for tracking progress and motivating patients to achieve long-term health improvements.

This video is not sponsored. Subscribe, like, and share if you find it helpful!

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an Functional Nurse educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!

What happens when a bedside RN experiences firsthand what it feels like to be dismissed in conventional healthcare, and then discovers functional medicine?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager interviews Ashley Braaten, BSN RN, who shares how functional medicine transformed her personal health, her family’s well-being, and the way she practices nursing today.

Ashley opens up about her postpartum health challenges, including sleep disruption, hormone imbalance, stress, and gut health issues, and how a root-cause functional approach helped her heal when traditional care fell short. She also shares powerful real-life examples of applying functional medicine principles to her young daughter’s constipation and respiratory symptoms, illustrating how upstream, lifestyle-based care can change outcomes early.

The conversation also explores what it’s like to return to hospital nursing after functional medicine training—from the frustration of noticing poor nutrition and limited lifestyle education, to the empowerment of offering patients practical, hope-filled guidance they often aren’t receiving elsewhere.

This episode includes an important scope-of-practice discussion, highlighting how registered nurses can ethically and effectively create meaningful change through education, awareness, and lifestyle support—without prescribing or diagnosing.

Whether you’re a bedside nurse, functional nurse, or nurse coach exploring a more holistic path, this episode offers inspiration, validation, and clarity for what’s possible within the RN role.

Learn more about the Institute for Functional Nursing's programs for nurses at https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

Key Topics:

The myth of perfection in healthcare and functional medicine.

Navigating real-life challenges while practicing functional medicine.

Balancing the ideal with the realistic in personal health choices.

How nurses can support patients and themselves by focusing on progress, not perfection.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!

Lab work is a cornerstone of functional medicine, but many patients are told their results are “normal” even when symptoms persist. In this episode, Brigitte Sager explains how functional medicine interprets labs differently by looking for optimal ranges and early patterns that can reveal insulin resistance, inflammation, thyroid conversion issues, and more before a diagnosis is made. She also clarifies what’s within an RN’s scope of practice when reviewing labs, and shares practical options for helping clients access testing through prior labs, provider collaboration, and lab-ordering platforms.

• Why “normal” labs may still be suboptimal in functional medicine

• Early signs of insulin resistance and inflammation that often go unnoticed

• Thyroid testing basics: TSH vs a more complete functional view

• RN scope of practice: educating on labs vs diagnosing

• When testing helps and when lifestyle-first care is enough

• Practical ways nurses can support clients in accessing lab work ethically

To explore safe and effective ways for nurses to use labs in their practice, consider reading THIS ARTICLE Brigitte wrote on the topic.

Key Topics:

Brigitte’s transition from RN to NP and her experience in NP school.

Scope of practice differences between RNs and NPs in functional medicine.

The impact of functional medicine and nurse coaching without advanced degrees.

When testing and supplements are necessary, and when they’re not.

Why some RNs thrive in functional medicine without becoming nurse practitioners.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link.

Be well!

Key Topics:

The history of functional medicine and its alignment with nursing.

Why the term functional nursing may better represent the role of nurses in holistic care.

How nurses can deliver functional healthcare without prescribing medications.

Examples of how nurses can practice functional nursing in real-world settings.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast..

Be well!

Are you a nurse curious about the differences between functional medicine, integrative medicine, and lifestyle medicine? Wondering which model aligns best with your nursing values, scope of practice, and passion for holistic care?

In this insightful episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager demystifies these often-confused terms and provides practical guidance for nurses exploring holistic healthcare roles. Whether you're a nurse coach, NP, wellness advocate, or just beginning your journey, this episode will help you understand:

  What sets functional medicine apart with its root-cause, systems-based approach   How integrative medicine bridges holistic and conventional treatment   Why lifestyle medicine is foundational for preventing chronic illness   How each model fits into today’s evolving healthcare landscape   Tips on choosing the right professional title and career path based on your role, goals, and patient population

You’ll also learn how these approaches support patient-centered care, especially for individuals struggling with chronic disease or feeling unheard in traditional systems.

Ready to elevate your practice? Explore IFN's offerings at: https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow nurses exploring functional, integrative, or lifestyle pathways.

• Why many “breast milk allergies” and infant gut symptoms are rooted in maternal physiology
• How stress, thyroid health, hormone balance, and nutrient status affect milk production
• Why elimination diets can provide clues, but don’t create full healing on their own
• The role of mitochondrial health and toxin exposure in maternal recovery
• How asking better questions (“When were you last well?”) changes care plans
• Why education, empowerment, and nursing scope are central in perinatal functional care

Where can a functional nurse make an impact? Everywhere.

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, reveals 12 surprising places where functional nurses are creating real change in healthcare. From primary care, school nursing, and urgent care to cardiology, endocrinology, and more, discover how functional medicine is being applied in roles far beyond private practice.

Brigitte shares powerful insights from her work as a nurse practitioner and educator, showing how nurses are integrating root cause care, lifestyle interventions, and whole-person approaches to improve outcomes and find greater meaning in their work.

If you're a nurse wondering: "Where can functional medicine fit into my career?" — this episode is for you.

• 12 unique and often-overlooked places functional nurses are working

• How functional medicine enhances both traditional and non-traditional nursing roles

• Real-life examples of nurses leading change in healthcare

• Opportunities for entrepreneurship, collaboration, and practice ownership

Whether you're looking to pivot your nursing path, launch a functional practice, or incorporate holistic care into your current role, this episode offers practical inspiration and next steps.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP – Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Coach, and RN/NP Functional Nurse Educator.

Like what you hear?

Subscribe, share with a nursing colleague, or tag us on social media!

You can also listen and share directly from our website or your favorite podcast app.

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, FNP talks with Jill Jefferson, RN, a board-certified holistic nurse and nurse coach, about her transition from corporate healthcare to a holistic, functional medicine-based practice.

Jill shares how she moved from feeling disillusioned in traditional systems to launching a nurse-led wellness career that combines coaching, root cause care, and functional medicine—all within the nursing scope. This inspiring conversation explores:

• The burnout many nurses feel in corporate healthcare—and how functional medicine offers a path forward

• How nurse coaching shifts the focus from “noncompliance” to patient readiness and empowerment

• The difference between treating symptoms and preventing illness through root cause assessment

• How to integrate functional medicine, coaching, and lifestyle support without leaving nursing values behind

• Practical insights for nurses exploring entrepreneurship without compromising financial stability

Whether you’re an RN, NP, or nurse coach, this episode offers insight and inspiration for building a career that prioritizes healing, connection, and sustainable change.

Learn more about functional nursing education and community at: https://www.fxnursing.com

Jill Jefferson, RN Board Certified Holistic Nurse | Nurse Coach Practice: New Hampshire Health and Wellness Center (Nashua, NH)

This episode is perfect for any healthcare professional curious about how to balance research with functional and holistic interventions. You’ll learn why smaller cohort studies and case studies are often more applicable in functional medicine and how to navigate PubMed and other research tools to find quality evidence to support your practice.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast..

Be well!

Is functional medicine just “alternative” care—or is it truly rooted in science and evidence-based practice? It’s one of the most common (and controversial) questions nurses ask—and in this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, FNP and functional medicine educator, provides a grounded, clinical answer.

Drawing on her experience in both conventional and functional medicine, Brigitte explains how evidence-based nursing can look different when you're practicing root-cause care. She breaks down:

• Why large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) often don’t reflect individualized care

• How pharmaceutical influence in research shapes what gets studied—and what doesn’t

• Why functional medicine relies on biochemistry, physiology, and patient outcomes

This episode reframes how nurses can apply science-based principles to support early intervention, prevention, and healing—well before a disease label is assigned.

Whether you're a nurse or nurse practitioner, this episode will help you feel confident navigating the intersection of holistic care and clinical evidence.

Ready to dive deeper into science-backed functional nursing?

Explore the Institute for Functional Nursing's education programs: https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

Brigitte explores how registered nurses can use their foundational nursing skills to educate patients about root causes of health conditions and guide them towards healing. Whether you're an RN or NP, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding how to practice functional medicine within their scope, while focusing on lifestyle changes and patient empowerment, not just medical diagnoses.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link.

Be well!

Brigitte emphasizes the critical role functional medicine plays in empowering patients and practitioners alike, guiding them beyond the typical "diagnose and prescribe" model of care. Whether you're a nurse, nurse practitioner, or nurse coach, this episode offers valuable insights into integrating functional medicine into your practice while remaining patient-centered. Listen in to find inspiration and practical advice on becoming a more holistic healthcare provider.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link.

Be well!

In this foundational episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, nurse educator and functional medicine practitioner, breaks down what functional medicine really is—and what it isn’t. If you're a nurse or nurse practitioner feeling frustrated by the limitations of conventional care, this episode will help you understand why functional medicine is such a natural fit for the nursing model.

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN) Helping nurses lead the future of healthcare through functional medicine education. Learn more at www.fxnursing.com

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The core principles of functional medicine

• How it differs from conventional and integrative medicine

• Why nurses are uniquely positioned to lead this shift

• The role of nutrition, gut health, stress, toxins, genetics, and lifestyle in chronic disease

• What functional medicine looks like within nursing scope (without prescribing or diagnosing)

This episode is the perfect starting point for building a more sustainable, patient-centered, and fulfilling career in nursing.

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP – Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner and Functional Nurse Educator.

Connect:

• Website: www.fxnursing.com

• Functional Medicine Education for Nurses: www.fxnursing.com/learn

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/fxnursing

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/fxnursing

Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an Functional Nurse educator.

Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.

Be well!