The Functional Nurse Podcast - Nursing in Functional Medicine

Exploring The WHY's 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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Interview with Melissa Armstrong, BSN RN HWNC-BC with Holistic Health LLC

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager interviews Melissa Armstrong, a nurse coach and functional health practitioner who transitioned from conventional nursing to holistic medicine. Melissa shares her journey from working in the Pediatric ICU to opening her own Functional Health and Wellness Coaching business. She discusses how her experiences with unresolved trauma, chronic fatigue, anxiety, and gut issues led her to holistic and functional medicine, and how she now helps women address the root causes of their health issues.
Melissa and Brigitte explore topics like balancing nurse coaching with functional medicine, the importance of lifestyle interventions, scope of practice concerns, and the rewarding nature of helping patients achieve true transformation. Melissa also shares insights on charging for your worth, group coaching, and the growing demand for holistic healthcare services. This episode is packed with practical advice for nurses considering their own holistic or functional medicine practice.
 
You can find and follow Melissa on her website and socials below:
https://www.instagram.com/holistichealthbymelissa/
https://www.facebook.com/HolisticHealthbyMelissa
 
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!
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Interview with Julie Davey, RN, MSN, ANP-C, ACNP-C

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager interviews Julie Davey, a nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience in healthcare. Julie shares her journey into functional medicine and how she uses a holistic approach to help patients overcome gut health issues, restore energy, and improve overall well-being. As an expert in gut health and a leader in functional medicine education, Julie discusses her path from conventional nursing to becoming a functional medicine provider and educator. You’ll learn about her work at Rupa University, where she leads boot camps on GI mapping and teaches providers how to incorporate functional testing into their practice.
Julie and Brigitte also dive into practical advice for nurses interested in functional medicine, including how food, stress, and foundational lifestyle changes can have a profound impact on patient outcomes. This episode is a must-listen for any nurse or nurse practitioner considering a shift toward functional nursing or those wanting to deepen their expertise in gut health.
 
You can find and follow Julie on her website and socials below:
https://www.julieannwellness.com/
https://www.instagram.com/julieannwellness/
https://www.facebook.com/julieannwellness/
https://www.rupauniversity.com/instructors/julie-davey
 
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!
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Interview with Lindsey Buhl, RN, BSN with Revival Health

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, functional medicine nurse practitioner Brigitte Sager interviews Lindsey Buhl, an RN with over 15 years of experience in emergency trauma and critical care. After going through her own autoimmune health crisis, Lindsey shifted her career toward functional medicine and holistic nursing. In this insightful conversation, she shares her journey of healing through functional medicine, how she transitioned from conventional healthcare to becoming a functional medicine nurse, and the impact it’s had on her life and her family. This episode is essential listening for nurses and nurse practitioners considering the move into functional medicine.
Lindsey talks about how her practice now focuses on providing accessible functional medicine education through her YouTube channel, Revival Health RN, and how she balances conventional nursing skills with holistic approaches to healthcare. Nurses, nurse practitioners, and holistic nurse coaches will learn valuable tips on incorporating functional medicine principles into their practice, creating positive patient outcomes, and even exploring in-home care. If you’re interested in how functional medicine can complement your nursing practice, this episode is packed with practical advice.
 
You can find and follow Lindsey on her YouTube channel and social below:
https://www.youtube.com/@RevivalHealthRN 
https://www.instagram.com/revivalhealthrn/ 
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 view via YouTube here!
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Knowing Your Worth As A Functional Medicine Nurse

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, dives into the important topic of knowing your worth as a nurse. She discusses how nurses often undervalue their time and expertise, especially when transitioning from a corporate healthcare setting to starting their own practice. Brigitte explores the challenges of pricing services, setting healthy boundaries, and understanding the true value of holistic care. This episode is a must-listen for nurses and nurse practitioners considering entrepreneurship or already offering functional medicine or holistic nursing practices.
Brigitte also covers the different ways to structure fees, including per-visit pricing versus packages, and explains the importance of charging what you're worth. She emphasizes how charging appropriately ensures that clients are invested in their care, leading to better outcomes. This episode empowers nurses to recognize the value they bring to healthcare and provides practical tips on structuring a sustainable and impactful practice.
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

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!
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Interview with Dr. Carrie Jones, ND, DABNE, MPH the ”Queen of Hormones”

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner and educator Brigitte Sager sits down with hormone expert Dr. Carrie Jones, a naturopathic physician known for her extensive work in women's health, hormones, and endocrinology. Together, they dive into the critical role nurses can play in functional medicine, focusing on hormone balance and how foundational practices can significantly impact patient outcomes. Tune in for insights on how to help clients improve their health by addressing core issues like stress, sleep, diet, and hormone testing, without jumping straight to advanced diagnostics.
Dr. Jones shares her expertise on why starting with the basics can make a huge difference for patients, including when to consider advanced testing like the Dutch test. They also discuss the importance of understanding stress and cortisol, insulin resistance, and how hormone imbalances are often linked to lifestyle factors that can be addressed through functional nursing principles.
 
You can find and follow Dr. Jones through her website and socials below:
https://www.instagram.com/dr.carriejones/
https://www.tiktok.com/@drcarriejones
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-root-cause-medicine-podcast/id1589219026
www.drcarriejones.com
 
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!
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Prioritizing Care When Practicing Functional Medicine As A Nurse

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, discusses the crucial topic of how to prioritize care when practicing functional nursing. Drawing from her experience with over 500 nursing and nurse practitioner students, she addresses the common challenge of determining where to start when addressing patients' health concerns. Brigitte emphasizes the importance of starting with fundamental practices like stress management, sleep optimization, and the Elimination Diet as part of the 5Rs of functional medicine.
🎙️ 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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

My Key Takeaways from a Recent Functional Medicine Conference

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, shares her favorite takeaways from the 2023 Thought Leaders Consortium hosted by Dr. Jeffrey Bland, founder of the Personalized Lifestyle Medicine Institute. This Cutting Edge conference, held in Seattle, focused on the neuroimmune connection and explored crucial topics like long COVID, mitochondrial health, nutrition, autoimmune conditions, and chronic illnesses like fibromyalgia and Alzheimer's.
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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

An Interview with Dr. Holly Lucille, ND, RN, ONC with Fullscript

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, interviews Dr. Holly Lucille, a nationally recognized naturopathic doctor and registered nurse. Together, they discuss the intersection of nursing and naturopathic medicine, how nurses can effectively integrate supplements into patient care, and the role of functional and holistic approaches in healthcare. Holly shares her journey from nursing to naturopathic medicine, shedding light on how nurses can leverage their training to offer comprehensive care.
This episode offers valuable insights for nurses and nurse practitioners interested in using dietary supplements and integrative medicine to support their patients. Learn about the importance of quality in supplements, patient education, and how technology like Fullscript can streamline supplement management in nursing practice.
 
Learn more about using Fullscript to offer quality supplements to your patients or sign up at: http://us.fullscript.com/practitioner-signup/manifest-wellbeing 
You can find and follow Dr. Lucille through her website below:
https://www.drhollylucille.com/
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

How To Choose Your Functional Medicine Education Path As A Nurse

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, functional medicine nurse practitioner Brigitte Sager guides nurses and nurse practitioners on how to choose the best functional medicine education path for their career. Drawing from her personal journey, Brigitte shares insights on the benefits and challenges of various programs, including her own experience with the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM) and other courses. She highlights what to consider when selecting a program, from finding nurse-focused courses to understanding certification options. If you're an RN or NP exploring functional medicine education, this episode will help you make an informed decision.
Brigitte also explains the value of learning functional medicine through a nursing lens and how her course at the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy bridges this gap. This episode is essential for nurses looking to enhance their skills and find the right niche in functional medicine.
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

An interview with Lauren Briggs, Functional Medicine Nurse Coach and Clinical Homeopath

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner Brigitte Sager welcomes Lauren Briggs, a registered nurse, nurse coach, and yoga instructor, to discuss her journey from burnout to owning her own practice, Practical Medicine. Lauren shares how she integrates functional medicine, gut health, hormone balancing, and migraine relief with her unique coaching approach. They explore the power of nurse coaching and how it complements functional medicine, offering a holistic way to empower patients in their healing journey. Lauren's story will inspire nurses looking to break free from traditional healthcare models and start their own functional nursing practice.
Lauren and Brigitte delve into what it means to be a nurse coach, the benefits of longer patient appointments, and how functional medicine can provide deeper insights into root causes of illness. This episode is perfect for RNs and NPs curious about how functional medicine and nurse coaching can transform their practice.
 
You can find and follow Lauren through her website below:
https://www.practical-medicine.com/ 
https://inursecoach.com/admissions/
 
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!
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Is Test, Don’t Guess The Best Approach? & Top Functional Lab Tests!

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner and educator Brigitte Sager takes a deep dive into functional testing, weighing the pros and cons of the "test, don’t guess" approach. She discusses the benefits of popular functional tests like stool testing, organic acid testing, and hormone testing, while also examining why some tests, like food sensitivity testing, may not always be the best option.
Brigitte shares how balancing testing with core functional medicine fundamentals can lead to better outcomes for both patients and practitioners. Brigitte explains how functional testing aligns with holistic nursing, helping nurses and nurse practitioners tailor their care based on both objective data and lifestyle-based interventions. This episode is especially valuable for RNs, NPs, and holistic nurses interested in learning how to integrate functional testing into their practice without relying solely on expensive lab work.
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

An Interview with Nicole Vienneau MSN, RN, NC-BC. CEO of Blue Monarch Health, PLLC and Restoration Room, PLLC

In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, is joined by Nicole Veno, MSN, RN, NC-BC, a leader in nurse coaching and group coaching for nurses and patients. Nicole shares her insights into how group coaching creates a powerful and supportive environment, especially in functional medicine, allowing nurses to connect and help patients on a larger scale. Discover how group settings can foster better health outcomes, strengthen patient engagement, and improve overall care.
If you're a nurse practitioner (NP), RN, or holistic nurse, this episode will inspire you to explore group coaching in your own practice and make a broader impact in your community.
🌟 Key Takeaways:
The benefits of group coaching in functional medicine and nursing practice.
How group coaching improves patient outcomes and boosts nurse engagement.
Nicole’s personal journey from burnout to becoming a nurse coach and group facilitator.
Tips for nurses looking to incorporate group coaching into their practice.
 
You can find and follow Nicole through her websites and social media below:
https://bluemonarchhealth.com/
https://www.restorationroom.org/
https://www.facebook.com/BlueMonarchHealth
https://www.facebook.com/restorationroomtucson
https://www.instagram.com/bluemonarchhealth
https://www.instagram.com/restorationroomtucson
https://www.instagram.com/nicolerncoach/
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!
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Understanding Patient Motivation And Readiness For Change In Functional Medicine

In today's episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, explores one of the most essential aspects of functional medicine: evaluating and understanding patient readiness and motivation for change. Learn how to assess where patients are on the readiness spectrum, adapt your approach, and use coaching techniques to guide them toward lasting lifestyle transformations.
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 RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

An Interview with Ashley Braaten, BSN RN: A Registered Nurse and Functional Nurse

In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, interviews Ashley Braaten, RN, a nurse with over a decade of experience. Ashley shares her journey from conventional nursing to functional medicine after her own health challenges and the transformative care she received through functional medicine. The conversation touches on the struggles of postpartum health, balancing family life with holistic care, and how functional medicine has changed her approach to patient care both in the hospital and at home.
Key Topics:
Ashley’s health journey and introduction to functional medicine.
Transitioning from conventional nursing to a more holistic approach.
The power of education in nursing and how functional medicine can empower nurses to support long-term health.
How to implement functional medicine in your home and patient care practice.
 
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!
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Is Perfection A Realistic Goal When Practicing Functional Medicine?

In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, tackles a concept many of us struggle with—perfection. As healthcare professionals, the pressure to be perfect in both our personal lives and careers can be overwhelming. Brigitte shares her personal journey with letting go of perfectionism in practicing functional medicine and encourages nurses to embrace progress over perfection. From balancing healthy choices with real-life realities to setting realistic self-care goals, this episode is a candid reminder that we're all on a wellness continuum, and that’s okay.
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, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

How Nurses Can Use Lab Work in Functional Medicine

In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, dives into how lab work should be used when practicing functional medicine. Brigitte explains how lab work interpretation in functional medicine differs from traditional healthcare, the importance of optimal ranges versus normal limits, and how RNs can ethically review lab work in their scope of practice. Whether you're an RN or NP, this episode is packed with practical insights on how lab work can be leveraged—or when it's unnecessary—in supporting patients holistically.
Key Topics:
Understanding optimal vs. normal reference ranges in lab work.
When and why to use lab work in functional medicine.
Ethical considerations and scope of practice for RNs reviewing labs.
Creative ways RNs can help clients get lab work done without practicing outside their scope.
Addressing the stereotype of functional medicine as expensive lab tests and supplements.
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Does A Registered Nurse Need To Become A Nurse Practitioner to Practice Functional Medicine?

In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, addresses the question many registered nurses face: Do you need to become a nurse practitioner to practice functional medicine? Brigitte shares her personal journey from RN to nurse practitioner, explores the unique scopes of practice for both RNs and NPs, and offers insights into why RNs might not need to pursue the NP route to excel in functional medicine. If you’re deciding between further education or advancing your nursing practice right where you are, this episode is for you.
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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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.
Be well!

Is it Functional Medicine or Functional Nursing? What Should I Call Myself?

In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, discusses why some nurses may prefer the term functional nursing over functional medicine when describing their practice. Brigitte explores the evolving role of nurses in functional healthcare, highlighting how nurses can deliver holistic, root-cause-focused care without stepping outside their scope of practice. She also delves into the history of functional medicine and explains how this powerful approach to healthcare aligns with the core principles of nursing.
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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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..
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What is the Difference Between Functional, Integrative, and Lifestyle Medicine?

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, breaks down the key differences between functional medicine, lifestyle medicine, and integrative medicine. Each of these approaches to health offers distinct methodologies, and understanding them can help nurses and practitioners better navigate their roles within the healthcare system. Brigitte shares insights into how these methods differ from traditional allopathic (Western) medicine, focusing on their unique applications in patient care, prevention, and root cause analysis.
Key Topics:
The differences between functional medicine, lifestyle medicine, and integrative medicine. How functional medicine uncovers root causes of illness and uses a personalized, biochemistry-based approach.
Why integrative medicine works well in settings where patients seek quick fixes or are not ready for lifestyle changes.
How lifestyle medicine focuses on prevention and uses six pillars of health: diet, exercise, sleep, stress, relationships, and avoiding risky substances.
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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..
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An Interview with Katie Oshita: a Lactation Consultant and Functional Nurse

In this episode, I interview Katie Oshita, BSN, RN, IBCLC.  Katie is a Registered Nurse and a board certified lactation consultant. Katie has completed coursework in Functional Medicine for Nurses, and she shares her experiences adding functional nursing to her offerings in her online private practice.
You can learn more about Katie on her website www.cuddlesandmilk.com or email her at katie@cuddlesandmilk.com
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

Twelve Surprising Places You Can Work As a Functional Nurse

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, walks you through 12 surprising places where functional nurses are making a significant impact. From primary care clinics to school nursing, hospitals, cardiology, and beyond, this episode reveals how functional medicine is transforming healthcare in diverse settings. Brigitte explores the role of functional nurses in innovative ways, including running their own practices, working in endocrinology, and even contributing in retirement. Whether you're curious about where functional nurses thrive or considering functional medicine as a career shift, this episode is packed with inspiring ideas.
Brigitte also shares insights from her experiences as a nurse practitioner, functional medicine consultant, and educator, shedding light on how functional medicine principles can enhance traditional nursing roles.
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!

An Interview with Jill Jefferson: a Nurse Coach Incorporating Functional Medicine into Her Private Practice

In this episode, host Brigitte Sager, DNP, interviews Jill Jefferson, RN, BSN, HWN-BC, a holistic nurse and nurse coach with a passion for functional medicine. Jill shares her journey from business and economics to nursing, and how her interest in integrative approaches like acupuncture and yoga led her to embrace functional medicine. Together, Brigitte and Jill discuss how functional medicine bridges the gap between Eastern and Western healthcare practices by addressing the root cause of illness rather than just managing symptoms.
Jill also offers insight into starting her coaching practice, combining functional medicine and holistic tools, and empowering clients to make sustainable lifestyle changes. Whether you’re a nurse thinking about starting a private practice or looking to deepen your coaching skills, Jill’s journey and practical advice will inspire and guide you.
You can read more about Jill here: https://www.nhhealthwellness.com/team/jill-jefferson 
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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!
 

Evaluating the Evidence from a Functional Medicine Perspective

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner and educator Brigitte Sager explains how to effectively evaluate evidence in healthcare, specifically within the realm of functional medicine. Brigitte shares strategies for identifying reliable research, reviewing studies critically, and finding the most up-to-date, relevant data for best practices. From understanding the hierarchy of studies to exploring why functional medicine may not always have the large-scale trials seen in conventional medicine, this episode equips nurses, NPs, and healthcare practitioners with tools to make evidence-based decisions in functional medicine.
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.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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..
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Is Functional Medicine Evidence Based? The Nursing Perspective

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner and educator Brigitte Sager addresses the question: "Is functional medicine evidence-based?" Brigitte explores how functional medicine relies on core scientific principles like biochemistry and pathophysiology. She discusses why large-scale studies might not validate the root-cause approach of functional medicine but highlights how case studies, cohort research, and fundamental science provide strong evidence for its effectiveness. By addressing the root cause of chronic conditions, rather than just managing symptoms, functional medicine has helped many patients heal and reverse diseases.
Brigitte emphasizes that functional medicine is deeply rooted in scientific evidence, even though it doesn't always follow the conventional path of randomized control trials. She encourages healthcare practitioners to look beyond traditional guidelines and consider the holistic, personalized care that functional medicine offers. This episode is essential for any RN or NP looking to integrate evidence-based holistic practices into their care model.
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
To learn more about the Functional Medicine for Nurses course offered through the Integrative Nurse Coach Academy INCA in partnership with the Institute for Functional Medicine IFM, click 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.
Be well!