The Functional Nurse Podcast - Nursing in Functional Medicine

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? What Nurses Need to Know

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com
In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager tackles a common misconception in healthcare: is functional medicine really not covered by insurance? She breaks down what functional medicine actually is—rooted in holistic nursing, patient education, and lifestyle-based care—and explains how these principles can absolutely be incorporated into insurance-based practice.
This episode explores the realities of billing, time constraints, and how providers can strategically use wellness visits, preventative care, and documentation to justify spending more time educating patients. Brigitte also shares her perspective on the balance between insurance-based care and cash-based functional medicine practices, highlighting why both models are necessary in today’s healthcare system. If you're a nurse or nurse practitioner wondering how to integrate functional medicine into your current role—or considering starting your own practice—this episode provides clarity, practical strategies, and a new way of thinking about accessible, patient-centered care.

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

What Should I Call Myself? Functional Nurse or Functional Medicine Nurse

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing — Learn more at www.fxnursing.com
“What should I call myself?”
It’s one of the most common questions nurses ask when stepping into functional medicine, integrative care, lifestyle medicine, or holistic nursing practice.
In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, breaks down the practical and ethical differences between common titles such as:
Functional Nurse
Functional Medicine Nurse
Holistic Nurse
Integrative Nurse
Lifestyle Medicine Nurse
Consultant vs Practitioner
She explains how to choose a professional title that:
 Aligns with your state scope of practice Reflects what you offer Matches patient expectations Supports ethical marketing Avoids overstating certification or credentials
She reinforces that the true marker of functional practice is not the label — it’s whether you consistently ask “why?” and apply root-cause, systems-based thinking.
This episode is essential listening for nurses building a functional or holistic practice who want to lead with clarity, professionalism, and integrity.
Explore functional nursing education at: www.fxnursing.com

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? A Nurse Practitioner's Perspective

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing — Learn more at fxnursing.com
Is functional medicine misunderstood—or is it being misrepresented?
In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, FNP makes the case that functional medicine has a branding problem—and explains why nurses are uniquely positioned to help fix it.
She defines what functional medicine is supposed to be: root cause care grounded in biochemistry, lifestyle, environment, and systems thinking—not expensive tests, stacks of supplements, or trendy health claims.
Brigitte breaks down three key factors driving the confusion:
Overuse of functional lab testing that doesn’t change the plan of care
Profiteering around supplements without clear clinical rationale
Unlicensed or undertrained individuals using the term "functional medicine"
You’ll also hear her framework for ethical, clear, and patient-centered practice:
Focus on low-hanging fruit first (sleep, digestion, stress, diet, exposures)
Use testing only if it changes the clinical plan
Be crystal clear about why supplements are used, what they’re for, and how long they’re needed
Frame care as education, partnership, and physiology-based support within nursing scope
Finally, Brigitte explores how nurses can shift the narrative—by using the language of nursing, role modeling results, sharing evidence-based strategies, and choosing accurate, ethical framing like “holistic nursing” when appropriate.
This is a must-listen for nurses, NPs, and nurse educators working to restore trust in functional care and deliver it with clarity, integrity, and clinical rigor.
Explore nursing-centered functional training at https://www.fxnursing.com

How Terry Wahls, MD Used Diet and the Functional Medicine Approach to Reverse Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing – Learn more at fxnursing.com
In this powerful interview, Brigitte Sager, DNP sits down with Dr. Terry Wahls, MD, IFM Certified Practitioner and author of The Wahls Protocol, to explore how a functional medicine and lifestyle-based approach transformed her experience with progressive multiple sclerosis.
Dr. Wahls shares her deeply personal journey—from worsening MS symptoms and wheelchair dependence to regaining function and biking again—and how this experience reshaped her clinical practice and research focus. Together, they discuss the science behind cellular health, mitochondrial function, and why diet and lifestyle interventions play a critical role in neurological and autoimmune conditions.
This conversation also dives into the real-world challenges of nutrition research, including adherence, family dynamics, and the need for education and behavior-change support. Dr. Wahls highlights growing evidence showing improvements in fatigue, quality of life, and daily function for people with MS using dietary and lifestyle strategies alongside conventional care.
Importantly, this episode emphasizes the essential role of nursing professionals in helping patients implement sustainable lifestyle changes, monitor progress, and navigate care safely as health improves.
This episode offers hope grounded in science and is essential listening for nurses, clinicians, and anyone interested in functional medicine, MS, and food as medicine.
Learn more about functional nursing education and training at https://www.fxnursing.com/learn
Key Discussion Topics
Dr. Wahls’ progression from MS diagnosis to severe disability and functional recovery
The role of mitochondria and cellular health in healing
Why nutrition studies are difficult—and what real-life success actually requires
Evidence supporting dietary interventions for MS-related fatigue and quality of life
Framing lifestyle and functional medicine as “creating health” alongside disease management
Why nurses are essential for education, behavior change, and long-term success
How identifying a patient’s personal “why” drives sustainable change
Dr. Wahls is the author of:
The Wahls Protocol: A Radical New Way to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions Using Paleo Principles
The Wahls Protocol Cooking for Life: The Revolutionary Modern Paleo Plan to Treat All Chronic Autoimmune Conditions
You can find and follow Dr. Wahls here:
Website
Facebook

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

Stress, Mindfulness & Functional Nursing: How Nurses Transform Chronic Health Naturally

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com
In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager interviews Bev Mazza, an integrative registered nurse and founder of Purely Present Health, who specializes in stress management, mindfulness, and behavior change. Bev shares her unique journey from psychology and veterinary medicine into nursing, and ultimately into functional and integrative care, where she now helps clients address the root causes of chronic health issues through lifestyle and mindset shifts.
This conversation dives deep into why stress is often the missing link in chronic illness, weight struggles, poor sleep, and burnout. Bev explains how simple, accessible tools like breathwork and mindful awareness can create powerful shifts in health outcomes without the need for complex testing or interventions. They also explore scope of practice for nurses, entrepreneurship, and how foundational habits like sleep, nutrition, and stress management can transform patient outcomes. If you're a nurse, health professional, or someone navigating chronic health challenges, this episode will help you rethink where true healing begins.
Connect with Bev Mazza:
Location: Westborough, Massachusetts
Business: Purely Present Health
Website: https://purelypresenthealth.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purelypresenthealth/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purelypresenthealth

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.
 
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.
 
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!

Supplements in Functional Nursing Practice: What RNs and NPs Should Know (with Dr. Holly Lucille)

In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP talks with Dr. Holly Lucille, nationally recognized naturopathic doctor and registered nurse about how RNs and NPs can safely and effectively use supplements in functional nursing practice.
They discuss clinical decision-making, scope considerations, supplement quality, patient education, and the workflow strategies that help nurses build clear, consistent, and sustainable treatment plans. Dr. Lucille also shares how she uses Fullscript to streamline supplement recommendations, improve adherence, and simplify follow-up.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How nurses and NPs can use supplements safely and within scope
Choosing high-quality, cost-conscious supplement options
How Fullscript automations support adherence and reduce nurse workload
Ways to set clear expectations around dosing, timelines, and symptom changes
How to teach the clinical “why” behind every recommendation
Practical workflow tips for nurses integrating functional and naturopathic approaches
Guidance for nurses transitioning into functional and integrative care
This conversation is packed with practical strategies for RNs, NPs, and any nurse looking to build functional medicine skills and confidently incorporate supplements into patient care.
 
Resources & Links
Fullscript for practitioners:
http://us.fullscript.com/practitioner-signup/manifest-wellbeing
Connect with Dr. Holly Lucille:
https://www.drhollylucille.com/
Courses & Training for Functional Nursing Practice including IFN's Functional Nursing Program™ (Functional Nursing education, membership, and programs for RNs & NPs):
https://fxnursing.com 
 
 
This episode is sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN): Functional Medicine, Reimagined for Nurses.
If you're enjoying the Functional Nurse Podcast™, subscribe and share it with a nurse friend.  
 
#functionalnursing #nursepractitioner #nursesupport #integrativemedicine #functionalmedicine

How to Become a Functional Medicine Nurse | Choose the Right Training Program for RNs and NPs

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing™ (IFN)
Learn more: https://www.fxnursing.com
Watch the Functional Nursing Program™ info session: https://learn.fxnursing.com/InfoSession
Explore our Functional Nursing Membership™: https://learn.fxnursing.com/the-functional-nursing-membership 
Listen to the Functional Nursing Podcast™: https://www.fxnursing.com/podcast
Trying to figure out your next step in functional medicine as an RN or NP?
This episode breaks down exactly how nurses can navigate functional medicine education, certification options, and career pathways—so you can confidently choose the right training and build a sustainable functional nursing practice.
You’ll learn the major differences between programs designed for nurses vs. general wellness learners, what to know about IFM & IFMCP certification, how to evaluate credibility, and how to choose the best next course for your goals. We also cover how functional medicine fits into real-world nursing workflows—from primary care to integrative clinics to independent practice.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How to choose your next functional medicine course as an RN or NP• Key differences between programs built for licensed nurses vs. non-clinical learners• What IFM, IFMCP certification, and advanced practice modules actually mean• How to identify credible educators and evidence-based functional medicine training• Ways nurses are integrating functional medicine into both clinical and independent practice• How to stay connected through conferences, peer communities, and continuing education• Why nursing foundations naturally align with functional and root-cause care
This conversation is perfect for RNs, NPs, holistic nurses, nurse coaches, integrative practitioners, and any clinician exploring functional medicine education.

Gut Health, Hormones & Migraines: A Functional Medicine Nurse’s Career Pivot Story

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing — Learn more at www.fxnursing.com
What happens when a burned-out hospital RN discovers root cause care?
In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, interviews Lauren Briggs, RN, board certified nurse coach, about her transition from traditional hospital nursing to private practice using functional medicine and nurse coaching.
Lauren shares how gut health, hormone balance, and timeline mapping transformed not only her patients’ chronic migraines and digestive issues — but her own career path.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How extended intake visits and functional timeline mapping reveal root causes
Why gut dysfunction and hormone imbalance contribute to chronic migraines
Why functional nurses move beyond “Band-Aid medicine” toward systems-based healing
How nurse coaching bridges knowledge and sustainable lifestyle change
What it takes to build confidence in private practice as an RN
How entrepreneurship can restore purpose after healthcare burnout
This conversation is ideal for:
 Nurses experiencing burnout RNs exploring private practice or entrepreneurship Functional medicine nurses Women struggling with migraines, gut health, or hormone imbalance Nurses seeking a patient-centered, root cause model of care
If you’re ready to rethink both healing and your nursing career, this episode offers practical insight and inspiration.
Explore functional nursing education at: www.fxnursing.com
Guest Information:
Lauren Briggs, RN, BSN, HWNC-BC, NC-BC
Practice: Practical MedicineLocation: Stamford, ConnecticutWebsite: https://www.practical-medicine.com/

Functional Medicine Lab Testing for Nurses: Is Test Don't Guess the Best Approach?

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more at www.fxnursing.com 
 
Functional medicine lab testing can be a powerful clinical tool, but when used too early or too often, it can also increase cost, delay care, and create unnecessary anxiety for patients. So how do nurses decide when testing truly adds value and when it’s better to focus on foundations first?
In this episode, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, CNE breaks down the popular “test, don’t guess” philosophy through a practical, nurse-centered lens. She reviews common functional medicine labs, and shares which tests she finds most useful in real-world practice, and which she often skips.
You’ll learn how functional medicine nurses can ethically and confidently use test results to support root-cause healing without over-testing or over-relying on labs. This episode provides a clear decision-making framework to help you determine whether a test will actually change the plan of care or if fundamentals like sleep, stress regulation, nutrition, and lifestyle interventions should come first.
Whether you’re a functional nurse or nurse practitioner, this conversation will help you use labs more strategically, responsibly, and effectively- and in your scope of practice.
 
Learn more about IFN's programs for RNs and NPs at https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

Nurse Coaching & Functional Medicine | Supporting Women in Midlife & Building Community (with Nicole Vienneau, MSN, RN, NC-BC)

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN)Learn more: https://www.fxnursing.comFunctional Nursing Program info session: https://learn.fxnursing.com/InfoSessionMembership & community: https://learn.fxnursing.com/the-functional-nursing-membership Podcast home: https://www.fxnursing.com/podcast
In this episode, we explore how nurses can use functional medicine, holistic nursing, and nurse coaching to support women in midlife while also building meaningful, sustainable nursing practices.
Brigitte is joined by Nicole Vienneau, MSN, RN, NC-BC, a leading nurse coach known for creating powerful group experiences—from healing circles to coaching programs that help nurses reconnect with purpose, reduce burnout, and guide women through the physical and emotional changes of midlife.
You’ll hear big-picture insights on how nurses can blend functional medicine with holistic modalities, build community-based programs, and support midlife women through evidence-informed lifestyle and wellness strategies.
What this episode explores:
• How functional medicine and holistic nursing intersect in real practice• The rise of nurse coaching and community-based care models• Supporting women in perimenopause and menopause with lifestyle approaches• How group coaching can expand your impact as a nurse• Creating communities that help nurses heal, lead, and thrive• Building a career aligned with purpose, autonomy, and whole-person care
 
This conversation is ideal for holistic nurses, functional medicine nurses, nurse coaches, and any clinician passionate about midlife women’s health, community care, and integrative practice.

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

From Bedside RN to Functional Medicine Nurse: How Functional Approaches Changed One Nurse’s Life

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more at fxnursing.com
 
What happens when a bedside RN experiences firsthand what it feels like to be dismissed in conventional healthcare, and then discovers functional medicine?
In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager interviews Ashley Braaten, BSN RN, who shares how functional medicine transformed her personal health, her family’s well-being, and the way she practices nursing today.
Ashley opens up about her postpartum health challenges, including sleep disruption, hormone imbalance, stress, and gut health issues, and how a root-cause functional approach helped her heal when traditional care fell short. She also shares powerful real-life examples of applying functional medicine principles to her young daughter’s constipation and respiratory symptoms, illustrating how upstream, lifestyle-based care can change outcomes early.
The conversation also explores what it’s like to return to hospital nursing after functional medicine training—from the frustration of noticing poor nutrition and limited lifestyle education, to the empowerment of offering patients practical, hope-filled guidance they often aren’t receiving elsewhere.
This episode includes an important scope-of-practice discussion, highlighting how registered nurses can ethically and effectively create meaningful change through education, awareness, and lifestyle support—without prescribing or diagnosing.
Whether you’re a bedside nurse, functional nurse, or nurse coach exploring a more holistic path, this episode offers inspiration, validation, and clarity for what’s possible within the RN role.
Learn more about the Institute for Functional Nursing's programs for nurses at https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

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, DNP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
 
Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link to the website and podcast.
Be well!

Functional Medicine Lab Work: How Nurses Review, Educate, and Advocate for Better Results

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at fxnursing.com
Lab work is a cornerstone of functional medicine, but many patients are told their results are “normal” even when symptoms persist. In this episode, Brigitte Sager explains how functional medicine interprets labs differently by looking for optimal ranges and early patterns that can reveal insulin resistance, inflammation, thyroid conversion issues, and more before a diagnosis is made. She also clarifies what’s within an RN’s scope of practice when reviewing labs, and shares practical options for helping clients access testing through prior labs, provider collaboration, and lab-ordering platforms.
Key Takeaways
Why “normal” labs may still be suboptimal in functional medicine
Early signs of insulin resistance and inflammation that often go unnoticed
Thyroid testing basics: TSH vs a more complete functional view
RN scope of practice: educating on labs vs diagnosing
When testing helps and when lifestyle-first care is enough
Practical ways nurses can support clients in accessing lab work ethically
To explore safe and effective ways for nurses to use labs in their practice, consider reading THIS ARTICLE Brigitte wrote on the topic.

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.
 
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.
 
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!

Integrative vs Functional vs Lifestyle Medicine: What Nurses Need to Know

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing – explore our transformative training programs at fxnursing.com
Are you a nurse curious about the differences between functional medicine, integrative medicine, and lifestyle medicine? Wondering which model aligns best with your nursing values, scope of practice, and passion for holistic care?
In this insightful episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager demystifies these often-confused terms and provides practical guidance for nurses exploring holistic healthcare roles. Whether you're a nurse coach, NP, wellness advocate, or just beginning your journey, this episode will help you understand:
  What sets functional medicine apart with its root-cause, systems-based approach  How integrative medicine bridges holistic and conventional treatment  Why lifestyle medicine is foundational for preventing chronic illness  How each model fits into today’s evolving healthcare landscape  Tips on choosing the right professional title and career path based on your role, goals, and patient population
You’ll also learn how these approaches support patient-centered care, especially for individuals struggling with chronic disease or feeling unheard in traditional systems.
Ready to elevate your practice?Explore IFN's offerings at: https://www.fxnursing.com/learn
Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow nurses exploring functional, integrative, or lifestyle pathways.

Maternal Health & Breastfeeding: A Functional Medicine Approach with an IBCLC

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing — Learn more at www.fxnursing.com
 
What if many breastfeeding challenges aren’t just about latch or milk supply—but about maternal health and root causes?
 
In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, interviews Katie Oshita, RN, IBCLC, lactation consultant and functional medicine nurse. Together, they explore how a functional medicine approach to lactation transforms outcomes for both mothers and babies.
 
Katie shares how her transition from hospital-based maternal-infant nursing to private practice allowed her to look upstream—addressing the ecosystem of mother and baby rather than isolated symptoms.
 
In this conversation, you’ll learn:
Why many “breast milk allergies” and infant gut symptoms are rooted in maternal physiology
How stress, thyroid health, hormone balance, and nutrient status affect milk production
Why elimination diets can provide clues, but don’t create full healing on their own
The role of mitochondrial health and toxin exposure in maternal recovery
How asking better questions (“When were you last well?”) changes care plans
Why education, empowerment, and nursing scope are central in perinatal functional care
This episode is essential listening for:
✔️ Nurses and nurse practitioners
✔️ IBCLCs and lactation consultants
✔️ Functional medicine clinicians
✔️ Professionals interested in women’s health and infant gut health
✔️ Nurses exploring private practice or telehealth
 
If you care about supporting families upstream—through root cause healing, perinatal nutrition, and functional nursing principles—this conversation will expand how you think about breastfeeding support.
 
Guest Information
Katie Oshita, RN, IBCLC Business: Cuddles & Milk Website: https://www.cuddlesandmilk.com Instagram & Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cuddlesandmilklactation
https://www.instagram.com/cuddlesandmilk/
 
Explore functional nursing education and training at: www.fxnursing.com

Twelve Surprising Places You Can Work As a Functional Nurse

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN) — empowering nurses to transform healthcare through functional medicine education and training. Learn more at www.fxnursing.com 
Where can a functional nurse make an impact? Everywhere.
In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP, IFMCP, reveals 12 surprising places where functional nurses are creating real change in healthcare. From primary care, school nursing, and urgent care to cardiology, endocrinology, and more, discover how functional medicine is being applied in roles far beyond private practice.
Brigitte shares powerful insights from her work as a nurse practitioner and educator, showing how nurses are integrating root cause care, lifestyle interventions, and whole-person approaches to improve outcomes and find greater meaning in their work.
If you're a nurse wondering: "Where can functional medicine fit into my career?" — this episode is for you.
What You’ll Learn:
12 unique and often-overlooked places functional nurses are working
How functional medicine enhances both traditional and non-traditional nursing roles
Real-life examples of nurses leading change in healthcare
Opportunities for entrepreneurship, collaboration, and practice ownership
Whether you're looking to pivot your nursing path, launch a functional practice, or incorporate holistic care into your current role, this episode offers practical inspiration and next steps.
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, DNP – Functional Medicine Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Coach, and RN/NP Functional Nurse Educator.
Like what you hear?
Subscribe, share with a nursing colleague, or tag us on social media!
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From Corporate RN to Holistic Nurse Coach: Functional Medicine in Action

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing – Explore IFN's courses and programs at fxnursing.com
In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, FNP talks with Jill Jefferson, RN, a board-certified holistic nurse and nurse coach, about her transition from corporate healthcare to a holistic, functional medicine-based practice.
Jill shares how she moved from feeling disillusioned in traditional systems to launching a nurse-led wellness career that combines coaching, root cause care, and functional medicine—all within the nursing scope. This inspiring conversation explores:
The burnout many nurses feel in corporate healthcare—and how functional medicine offers a path forward
How nurse coaching shifts the focus from “noncompliance” to patient readiness and empowerment
The difference between treating symptoms and preventing illness through root cause assessment
How to integrate functional medicine, coaching, and lifestyle support without leaving nursing values behind
Practical insights for nurses exploring entrepreneurship without compromising financial stability
Whether you’re an RN, NP, or nurse coach, this episode offers insight and inspiration for building a career that prioritizes healing, connection, and sustainable change.
Learn more about functional nursing education and community at: https://www.fxnursing.com
Guest Information
Jill Jefferson, RNBoard Certified Holistic Nurse | Nurse CoachPractice: New Hampshire Health and Wellness Center (Nashua, NH)
 

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.
 
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 Evidence-Based? A Nurse Practitioner’s Perspective

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing – Learn more at fxnursing.com
Is functional medicine just “alternative” care—or is it truly rooted in science and evidence-based practice? It’s one of the most common (and controversial) questions nurses ask—and in this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, FNP and functional medicine educator, provides a grounded, clinical answer.
Drawing on her experience in both conventional and functional medicine, Brigitte explains how evidence-based nursing can look different when you're practicing root-cause care. She breaks down:
Why large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) often don’t reflect individualized care
How pharmaceutical influence in research shapes what gets studied—and what doesn’t
Why functional medicine relies on biochemistry, physiology, and patient outcomes
This episode reframes how nurses can apply science-based principles to support early intervention, prevention, and healing—well before a disease label is assigned.
Whether you're a nurse or nurse practitioner, this episode will help you feel confident navigating the intersection of holistic care and clinical evidence.
Ready to dive deeper into science-backed functional nursing?
Explore the Institute for Functional Nursing's education programs: https://www.fxnursing.com/learn

Can a Registered Nurse Practice Functional Medicine?

In this episode, functional medicine nurse practitioner and nurse educator Brigitte Sager answers a critical question often asked by her students: "Can a registered nurse practice functional medicine?" Brigitte dives into the scope of practice for RNs, emphasizing that education, advocacy, and promoting wellness are well within the scope of a registered nurse. While this episode is not a substitute for legal advice, it offers clarity on the significant role RNs can play in functional medicine without overstepping into diagnosis or prescription, and addresses common misconceptions about supplements and lab work.
Brigitte explores how registered nurses can use their foundational nursing skills to educate patients about root causes of health conditions and guide them towards healing. Whether you're an RN or NP, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding how to practice functional medicine within their scope, while focusing on lifestyle changes and patient empowerment, not just medical diagnoses.
 
Hosted by Brigitte Sager, NP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, nurse coach, and an RN and NP FM educator.
 
Consider sharing this podcast with other nurses on your social media platforms, in a text, or listen together on this page or share this link.
Be well!