The Functional Nurse Podcast - Nursing in Functional Medicine

Bonus Episode Announcing The Institute For Functional Nursing

In this bonus episode , Brigitte Sager, DNP and Monique Class, MS, APRN, BC discuss the evolving landscape of Functional Nursing, focusing on the new certification processes, educational tracks, and the launch of a membership community for nurses interested in functional medicine. They emphasize the importance of nurses in the Functional Medicine movement and outline the structure of upcoming programs designed to enhance nursing competencies in this field.
 
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!

Interview With Samantha Hamilton MSN-ED, RN

In this engaging episode host Brigitte Sager, DNP interviews Samantha Hamilton, MSN-ED, RN. Samantha shares her journey through nursing and her transition into functional medicine. From her early days as an ICU nurse in a high-need area of Milwaukee to becoming an organ procurement coordinator and eventually working as a heart failure clinician, Samantha's passion for patient education shines through. She explains her mission to empower patients by teaching them to make informed decisions and uncovering the root causes of health issues. Samantha reflects on how this approach extends beyond healthcare, touching every aspect of life—from stress management to personal growth.
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!

Takeaways From The Personalized Lifestyle Medicine Institute (PLMI) Consortium

On this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, I’m diving into key insights from the recent Personal Lifestyle Medicine Institute (PLMI) conference. 🌿✨
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!

Interview with Rose Acholla, MSN APRN FNP-C RN NC

In this engaging episode, host Brigitte Sager introduces special guest Rose Acholla, MSN APRN FNP-C RN NC, an experienced ICU nurse and family nurse practitioner, who shares her inspiring journey from traditional healthcare to holistic and functional medicine. With 13 years in critical care and as an NP since 2021, Rose explains how she began to feel limited by conventional approaches in primary care. Seeking a deeper way to support her patients, she found functional medicine, completing courses in Functional Medicine for Nurses and Nurse Coaching. Rose then launched RA Coaching and Consulting LLC in December 2023 to offer a holistic approach to wellness.
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!

Founder's Launch of the Holistic Nursing Entrepreneur Program

In this bonus episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager shares exciting news for nurses interested in entrepreneurship. After listening to feedback from students in her functional medicine course, Brigitte realized that many nurses need guidance on starting their own businesses, especially in functional medicine and holistic healthcare. She discusses the challenges nurses face, like business structure, marketing, and client acquisition, and announces the launch of a new mentorship and entrepreneurial program designed to help nurses build their practices.
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!
 

Interview With Rebekah Sireci BSN, RN

In this insightful episode, host Brigitte Sager interviews Rebekah Sireci BSN, RN, the founder of Bare Health Co. Rebekah shares her inspiring journey into nursing, which began after a life-changing car accident as a teenager. Though she initially pursued a career in the corporate world, she later followed her passion for healthcare, training as a nurse in England. Specializing in oncology, Rebekah reflects on her experiences caring for cancer patients, the compassion that drives her work, and her observations on the impact of mindset and lifestyle changes on health outcomes.
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!

What's New In Functional Nursing?

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner Brigitte Sager shares important updates and emerging topics in functional nursing. From the availability of continuous glucose monitors over the counter to new certification processes by the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), this episode covers the latest developments that are shaping the future of functional nursing. Brigitte discusses how CGMs can empower patients with metabolic issues and previews exciting changes in functional medicine certification for nurses and nurse practitioners.
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!

Interview With Jazmine Reyes RN, BSN, BC-NC

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager interviews Jazmine Reyes, RN, BSN, BC-NC, about her journey from ICU nursing to holistic and functional medicine practice. Jaz shares her experiences as a travel nurse during the pandemic, which led her to shift towards a more intentional, slow-paced, and ancestral approach to health. Together, they discuss how nurses can integrate ancestral wisdom, mindfulness, and slowing down into modern healthcare while navigating the challenges of burnout and fast-paced environments.
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!

Empowering Nurses To Lead The Future Of Healthcare

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner Brigitte Sager shares her thoughts on how nurses can transform healthcare through holistic and functional nursing practices. Brigitte discusses the critical role nurses play in reshaping healthcare systems by stepping into leadership and entrepreneurial roles, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity and ethics. She explores how functional medicine empowers nurses to address root causes of chronic health issues, offering a more personalized approach to patient care. Brigitte also reflects on the challenges and opportunities for nurses to build their own practices while staying true to their core nursing values.
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!

Should A Nurse Call Themselves A Health Coach?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP, discusses a frequent question: Should a nurse call themselves a health coach?
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!

Can a Registered Nurse Become Board Certified In Functional Medicine?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP, answers a frequently asked question: Can a registered nurse become certified in functional medicine? Brigitte, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, delves into the topic of certification and board certification, specifically for nurses interested in pursuing functional medicine. She explains the current options available for nurses and nurse practitioners and the difference between a certificate of completion and a true board certification.
Key points discussed include:
Programs may offer certifications, but Brigitte cautions against courses that create their own certification exams, as they do not meet the rigor of a board certification.
Nurses and nurse practitioners can pursue certifications like the IFM Certified Practitioner (IFMCP) through the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), although the certification is geared toward prescribing providers.
Brigitte highlights the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation (AHNCC), which offers holistic nursing certifications and encourages nurses to consider these certifications to validate their knowledge and skills in holistic care.
Looking ahead, Brigitte shares her optimism for the creation of a functional medicine board certification for nurses in the future and her personal commitment to advocate for such certification.
For now, nurses interested in validating their holistic or functional medicine knowledge can explore options such as the holistic nursing board certification or pursue additional training through IFM. Brigitte also encourages nurses to keep their eye on future developments in this area.
 
As mentioned in this episode, American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation: https://www.ahncc.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. We also now have video episodes on YouTube! 
 
Be well!

Interview with Pamela Melson, MSN, NC-BC, RN

In this episode of The Functional Nurse podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP, sits down with Pamela Melson, a dedicated nurse coach with over 30 years of experience in blending allopathic and integrative medicine. Pamela is passionate about holistic community and mental health care, emphasizing mindfulness, self-care, and functional medicine to prevent compassion fatigue and burnout among healthcare professionals. As a clinical assistant professor and senior faculty member at the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy, Pamela is a trusted mentor and educator for nurses and students alike.
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!

Can Nurses Diagnose Their Patients?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP, explores the common misconception that registered nurses (RNs) cannot diagnose patients. Brigitte addresses this misconception by distinguishing between medical diagnoses and nursing diagnoses and explains how nursing diagnoses align with the holistic and functional medicine approach.
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!

Interview with Chelsea McGee, RN, BSN, NC-BC

In this episode of The Functional Nurse podcast, Brigitte Sager interviews Chelsea McGee, a registered nurse and holistic health practitioner. Chelsea shares her journey from serving in the military to becoming a nurse, nurse coach, and ultimately starting her own business. She explains how she integrates Eastern healing concepts with Western medicine through modalities such as sound healing, Reiki, meditation, and functional medicine.
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!

Takeaways From The Institute For Functional Medicine Annual Conference

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner and educator Brigitte Sager shares her key takeaways from the 2024 IFM Annual Conference in Las Vegas. Brigitte highlights the growing role of nurse coaches in functional medicine and the exciting developments presented by thought leaders like Dr. Mark Hyman and Dr. Jeffrey Bland. She discusses topics like the long lag between research and clinical practice, how emerging tech and AI are shaping healthcare, and the potential for a blood test to evaluate gut health. Brigitte also touches on the importance of group medical visits and the evolving understanding of women’s health, particularly around hormone balance and nutrition.
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!

Interview with Monique Class, MS, APRN, BC

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner and educator Brigitte Sager interviews Monique Class, a board-certified family nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, and expert in functional and integrative medicine. Monique shares her inspiring journey from holistic health to teaching at Yale and working with the Institute for Functional Medicine. She discusses how creativity, spirituality, and a patient-centered approach shape her practice, blending functional medicine, mind-body medicine, and coaching. Key takeaways include how nurses can co-create care plans with patients and the value of integrating functional medicine into nursing practice.
Monique explains the importance of combining holistic nursing with functional medicine’s systems biology approach. This episode provides valuable insights for RNs and NPs interested in expanding their scope of practice to include integrative methods, nutrition, and patient empowerment. Monique’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative impact nurses can have when they embrace functional nursing principles.
Monique is a thought leader and sought-after educator in the field of functional medicine, mind-body medicine, and coaching.  She lectures nationally and internationally on women’s health, mind-body practices, nutrition, and coaching. She is a senior faculty member for the Institute for Functional Medicine, clinical instructor for the Yale Graduate School of Nursing, and Director of Coaching Development for The Functional Medicine Coaching Academy. She is the cofounder of The Center for Functional Medicine in Stamford, CT, where she has been practicing for 22 years.
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!

The Impact Of Imposter Syndrome On Your Nursing Practice

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner and educator Brigitte Sager discusses how impostor syndrome can undermine nurses’ confidence in their practice. Brigitte explores why nurses, especially those incorporating holistic and functional medicine practices, often feel unqualified despite having the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact. Learn practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt and stepping into your role as a healer with confidence. Key takeaways include how to recognize impostor syndrome and actionable steps to move past it in both nursing and leadership roles.
Brigitte explains how functional medicine ties into the core nursing concepts of patient education, advocacy, and holistic care. She highlights the unique challenges nurses face when balancing traditional care with integrative approaches, offering insights for RNs and NPs ready to embrace functional nursing practices. By addressing root causes, nurses can transform their practice and help patients heal more effectively.
 
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!

My Key Takeaways From The Recent INCA Symposium

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, shares her top five key takeaways from the Integrative Nurse Coach Symposium held in Miami, Florida. From the importance of self-care in nursing to trauma-informed care and community service, Brigitte covers the most impactful insights from the event. Learn more about the Healthy Nurse, Healthy Nation movement, the power of trauma-informed care, the significance of service and outreach, cannabis in nursing, and the shared experiences that bring nurses together.
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!

PPI Overuse, GERD & Functional Medicine Nursing | Deprescribing with Rita Wadhwani, NP

This episode is proudly sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Explore functional nursing education, mentorship, and community at: www.fxnursing.com
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 WadhwaniWebsite: 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!

Exploring The WHYs Of Functional Medicine And Nursing

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, discusses the two key "whys" of functional medicine for nurses and how they can transform your practice. Brigitte explores the powerful questions nurses should ask to understand the root causes of patients' health concerns and how aligning your practice with your deeper purpose as a nurse can lead to more fulfilling patient care.
Brigitte shares insights into when and how to integrate functional medicine into your current practice, explaining that the moment you can explain "why" to your patients is when you’re ready to start. She also reflects on the deeper motivations behind becoming a nurse and how functional medicine can reignite your passion for helping others heal by looking beyond the symptoms. This episode is a must-listen for nurses who are curious about functional medicine, looking to deepen patient care, and questioning their role in the current healthcare system.
 
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!

How This Nurse Coach Built a Successful Functional Medicine Business

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN) — helping nurses lead the future of healthcare through functional medicine education and support. Learn more at www.fxnursing.com
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.
Connect with Melissa Armstrong:
Instagram: @holistichealthbymelissa
Facebook: Holistic Health by Melissa
Website: https://holistichealthbymelissa.com
Podcast: Holistic Health with Melissa

Is Functional Medicine Covered By Insurance?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, explores the question: “Is functional medicine covered by insurance?” Brigitte dives into common misconceptions about billing for functional medicine, the role of insurance in healthcare, and how functional medicine can be integrated into conventional healthcare models. She explains how nurses can incorporate holistic care and patient education into insurance-based visits and emphasizes that functional medicine is not only possible within insurance structures, but should be a core part of healthcare.
Brigitte also discusses the challenges and benefits of having a cash practice versus accepting insurance, the importance of patient education, and how functional medicine principles like stress management, nutrition, and lifestyle changes can be incorporated into even the briefest of visits. Whether you work in a traditional healthcare setting or have a functional medicine practice, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
 
You might also be interested in listening to this podcast regarding knowing your worth as a Functional Medicine nurse and charging accordingly: Know Your Worth As A Functional Medicine Nurse
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!

From Burnout to Gut Health Expert: A Nurse Practitioner’s Functional Medicine Path

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN) — supporting nurses in building impactful, root-cause-focused practices through functional medicine education. Learn more at www.fxnursing.com
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.
Connect with Julie Davey:
Website: https://www.julieannwellness.com
Instagram: @julieannwellness
Facebook: Julie Ann Wellness
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What Should I Call Myself?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, addresses a frequently asked question: What should I call myself? Brigitte explores the nuances of titles within functional medicine, holistic nursing, and integrative medicine. She also discusses the importance of choosing the right title to reflect your practice, whether you’re a functional nurse, functional medicine nurse, or holistic nurse. This episode is packed with practical guidance for nurses, nurse practitioners, and nurse coaches considering how to align their titles with their scope of practice and professional identity.
Brigitte shares insights on the differences between functional medicine, integrative medicine, and lifestyle medicine, helping nurses decide which term best suits their work. She also touches on certifications and how nurses can confidently call themselves experts in functional medicine, even without a specific board certification for nursing in this field. Whether you’re in private practice or thinking about transitioning from conventional healthcare, this episode will provide clarity on how to represent your unique approach as a nurse.
 
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!

Functional Medicine Nurse Insights with Lindsey Buhl, RN | Preventive Care & Patient Support

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN)Learn more: https://fxnursing.comExplore the Functional Nursing Program™: https://learn.fxnursing.com/the-functional-nursing-program
 
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/ 

Building a Functional Medicine Nurse Business: Value, Pricing & Boundaries

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN) — supporting nurses in building sustainable, nurse-led functional and holistic practices. Learn more at www.fxnursing.com
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.

Does Functional Medicine Have A Branding Problem?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, explores whether functional medicine has a branding problem. She dives into misconceptions surrounding functional medicine, particularly the overuse of supplements and expensive testing, and emphasizes the importance of root-cause medicine. Brigitte highlights the difference between practicing holistic nursing and what some call "functional medicine," offering clarity on why addressing lifestyle, nutrition, and cellular health is essential. Nurses play a vital role in promoting true functional medicine, and Brigitte provides actionable insights on how to bridge the gap in understanding for peers and patients.
Brigitte shares practical tips on how nurses can explain functional medicine to peers, avoid excessive supplementation, and focus on evidence-based holistic care. She discusses the ethical considerations around supplement sales and highlights the importance of role-modeling functional medicine to improve its perception. This episode is a must-listen for nurses and nurse practitioners looking to practice functional medicine with integrity and impact.
 
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!

Interview with Terry Wahls, MD

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner Brigitte Sager interviews Dr. Terry Wahls, MD, a pioneer in functional medicine and an expert in managing chronic immune conditions. Dr. Wahls shares her personal health journey with multiple sclerosis (MS) and how functional medicine and lifestyle changes, including the Wahls Protocol, transformed her life and clinical practice. Key takeaways include how dietary interventions like the paleo and ketogenic diets can support cellular health and improve MS symptoms, as well as the powerful role of lifestyle medicine in reversing chronic illness.
Dr. Wahls discusses her latest research on the efficacy of diet in improving quality of life for people with MS. She shares insights on why diet and lifestyle should be core components of managing autoimmune conditions and how nurse practitioners and RNs can apply these principles to their own practice, offering hope and healing to patients. This episode is a must-listen for any RN or NP interested in the intersection of functional medicine and chronic disease management.
She is the author of The Wahls Protocol: How I Beat Progressive MS Using Paleo Principles and Functional Medicine, The Wahls Protocol: A Radical New Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles, and the cookbook The Wahls Protocol Cooking for Life: The Revolutionary Modern Paleo Plan to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions.
 
You can find and follow Dr. Wahls through her website and socials below:
https://terrywahls.com
https://www.instagram.com/drterrywahls
The Wahls Diet Cheat Sheet
Efficacy of Diet on Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis is recruiting people with multiple sclerosis for a clinical trial. Learn more at www.terrywahls.com/msstudy.  Scan the QRS code to complete a short survey to see if you are eligible to participate in this important study.
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
This episode is 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!

Rethinking Hormone Symptoms: Gut, Detox & Testing for Functional Medicine RNs and NPs

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing – www.fxnursing.com
 
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.
Connect with Dr. Carrie Jones
Website: www.drcarriejones.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.carriejones/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-root-cause-medicine-podcast/id1589219026

An Interview with Beverly Mazza BSN, RN with Purely Present Health

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, interviews Beverly Mazza, BSN, RN, an integrative registered nurse and founder of Purely Present Health. Bev shares her journey into nursing, her focus on stress and mindfulness, and how she uses functional medicine principles to help her clients make meaningful lifestyle changes. Learn how Bev’s unique approach bridges conventional medicine and holistic practices to support clients dealing with stress, chronic conditions, and overall well-being.
🎙️ Discover how nurses can create their own integrative practices, provide stress relief strategies, and incorporate mindfulness into their work.
 
You can find and follow Lauren through her website below:
https://www.facebook.com/purelypresenthealth
https://www.instagram.com/purelypresenthealth
http://www.purelypresenthealth.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.
Be well!