Explore every episode of the podcast The Functional Nurse Podcast - Nursing in Functional Medicine

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com.

What is shaping the future of pediatric functional medicine? In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Dr. Brigitte Sager shares her biggest takeaways from A4M’s Pediatrics Reimagined 2026 conference in Nashville. She explores emerging insights into pediatric metabolic health, food as information, environmental toxins, mold exposure, the gut microbiome, neuroinflammation, trauma, genomics, methylation, PANS/PANDAS, and personalized vaccine conversations.

Brigitte also reflects on the importance of staying current as a healthcare professional and translating complex research into practical, actionable care. She discusses why inflammation requires a more specific, root-cause investigation, why pediatric health cannot be separated from family and environmental health, and how nurses and nurse practitioners can make functional and integrative care more accessible. From foundational nutrition and lifestyle support to whole-child care, this episode highlights how helping children earlier may transform the health of families, communities, and future generations.

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com.

Could a child’s sudden anxiety, OCD, behavioral changes, or psychiatric symptoms have an underlying biological cause? In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Dr. Brigitte Sager sits down with Dr. Zendi Moldenhauer, a psychiatric and pediatric nurse practitioner, functional medicine expert, and nationally recognized leader in pediatric functional psychiatry. Together, they explore PANS, PANDAS, neuroinflammation, and the ways infections, immune dysregulation, mold exposure, Lyme disease, gut imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies may influence a child’s brain and mental health.

Dr. Moldenhauer shares powerful stories from her clinical practice and explains why treating the whole child can uncover answers that may be missed when physical and psychiatric symptoms are addressed separately. The conversation also explores foundational strategies involving nutrition, sleep, movement, screen time, and family health, along with the important roles nurses, nurse practitioners, and nurse coaches can play in root-cause care. Dr. Moldenhauer also shares lessons from building a functional medicine practice and her vision for bringing functional and holistic care into nursing education.

Practice: Arbor Health Functional Medicine and Psychiatry Location: Pittsford, New York, in the Rochester area Website: www.arbor-health.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arbor_health Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArborHealthFunctionalMedicine

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com.

The Functional Nurse Podcast is celebrating its 100th episode! In this milestone episode, Dr. Brigitte Sager reflects on the evolution of functional nursing—from the early conversations that inspired this podcast to a growing movement of nurses and nurse practitioners bringing root-cause, holistic, and personalized care into healthcare. With that foundation established, Brigitte looks ahead to an important next chapter: strengthening the evidence for functional nursing through research, quality improvement, evidence-based practice, and meaningful patient outcomes.

Brigitte explores how nurses and nurse practitioners can help shape the future of functional medicine by asking better clinical questions and studying what actually improves patient care. She shares ideas for DNP projects, PhD research, capstones, quality improvement initiatives, patient-reported outcomes, and practice-based research—including nutrition assessments, functional medicine screening tools, group visits, nurse coaching, access to care, patient satisfaction, and clinician outcomes. She also discusses the Institute for Functional Medicine's approach to studying the complete functional medicine care model and why systems thinking, antecedents, triggers and mediators, modifiable lifestyle factors, and personalization matter when evaluating functional care. Whether you're currently in nursing school, considering an advanced degree, or simply want to help transform healthcare, this episode invites nurses to help build the evidence that can move functional nursing forward.

IFM's research page 🔗 https://www.ifm.org/about/research

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com.

What does functional nursing look like in Canada? In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Samantha Hamilton MSN-Ed, RN is joined by Canadian nursing professionals Megan Kroeker MSN, NP, FMCP-M, Mat Chartrand, NP, and Tabetha Hystad, RN, BSN, to explore how nurses and nurse practitioners are bringing functional medicine into the Canadian healthcare landscape. They discuss the realities of working within a publicly funded, often reactive healthcare system and why more nurses are becoming interested in prevention, integrative medicine, patient education, and root-cause care.

The conversation dives into some of the biggest questions Canadian nurses have about functional nursing, including career opportunities, private practice, scope of practice, functional lab testing, supplements, and the differences between practicing as an RN versus a NP. Megan also shares her experience building a virtual functional medicine practice in Ontario, while Mat and Tabetha discuss how they hope to incorporate their functional nursing education into their careers. Throughout the episode, the guests share why they believe Canadian nurses are uniquely positioned to help patients become more informed, proactive participants in their health and why functional nursing may represent an exciting new direction for nurses looking beyond the traditional healthcare model.

This episode is for educational purposes and does not provide legal or scope-of-practice advice. Nursing regulations vary by province, and nursing professionals should consult their applicable regulatory body.

Megan Kroeker, NP Location: Ontario, Canada Website: https://functionalnp.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megankroeker_functionalnp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/functionalnpmegankroeker

Mat Chartrand, NP Location: Ontario, Canada

Tabetha, RN Location: Alberta, Canada Website: https://rootedprairiewellness.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedprairiewellness

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com.

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Samantha Hamilton sits down with Jessica Spradley, RN, a former Navy corpsman, emergency department nurse, and Functional Nursing Program student who recently began working in a functional medicine clinic. Jessica shares how a simple curiosity about nutrition sparked a journey into functional medicine and ultimately transformed both her personal health and nursing career.

Jessica discusses how she integrates functional nursing principles into the fast-paced emergency department by meeting patients where they are, providing practical nutrition education, recognizing root-cause patterns, and empowering patients with small, meaningful lifestyle changes. She also shares her personal experience with functional lab testing, the GI-MAP, and the elimination diet, along with how these tools changed her own health perspective. Whether you're an RN, nurse practitioner, military veteran, or healthcare professional wondering how functional nursing fits into traditional healthcare, this episode offers practical examples, career inspiration, and hope for a more fulfilling future in nursing.

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 DNP, FNP-C, FMCP-M, CNE challenges one of the most common narratives in healthcare: are nurses truly burned out, or are they experiencing something deeper? Drawing from years of conversations with nurses across a variety of specialties, Brigitte explores why so many healthcare professionals feel disconnected from the very calling that inspired them to enter nursing. She examines how modern healthcare systems often prioritize tasks, documentation, and productivity over meaningful patient relationships, leaving many nurses questioning their purpose and future in the profession.

Brigitte discusses the concept of professional misalignment and how functional nursing offers a path back to the heart of nursing by emphasizing root-cause care, patient education, prevention, holistic nursing, and therapeutic relationships. She also explores why functional medicine is reigniting purpose for many nurses, helping them move beyond symptom management toward meaningful healing and long-term patient outcomes. Whether you're experiencing nurse burnout, considering a career change, or searching for a more fulfilling way to practice nursing, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and a vision for the future of the profession.

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com.

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Samantha Hamilton sits down with Autumn Wake, RN, IBCLC, to explore how functional nursing is transforming lactation consulting and postpartum care. Autumn shares her personal journey into functional medicine after searching for answers to her son's digestive issues, and how those experiences led her to integrate root-cause thinking into her practice supporting mothers, babies, and families.

Together, they discuss the connection between maternal health and infant wellbeing, including gut health, food sensitivities, breastfeeding challenges, birth interventions, tongue ties, structural issues, maternal stress, and the importance of treating the whole family, not just the symptoms. Autumn also shares practical ways she's incorporating functional nursing into lactation consulting, helping parents simplify care, build confidence, and support healthy development through nutrition, lifestyle, and individualized education. Whether you're a nurse, lactation consultant, maternal-child health professional, or parent interested in holistic postpartum care, this episode offers valuable insights into creating healthier outcomes for both mom and baby.

• Website: https://breastfeedingsupportlv.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/advancedbreastfeedingsupport/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BreastfeedingLasVegas

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 shares her biggest takeaways from two major healthcare events: the Institute for Functional Medicine's Annual International Conference (AIC) and the American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) Conference. From innovative care models and functional medicine implementation to the growing role of nurses in integrative healthcare, this episode offers an inside look at the conversations shaping the future of patient care.

Brigitte discusses emerging trends in functional medicine, including the integration of artificial intelligence in clinical practice, the impact of social determinants of health, fertility and women's health, chronic disease prevention, neuroplasticity, longevity, and metabolic health. She also shares inspiring examples of how nurses are leading change in healthcare through education, coaching, entrepreneurship, community-based care, and functional nursing. Whether you're a nurse, nurse practitioner, healthcare entrepreneur, or simply interested in the future of holistic and root-cause medicine, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical ideas you can apply in your own work.

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing™. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com

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

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

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

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com

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

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

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

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

In this episode:

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

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

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

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

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

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 answers one of the most common questions nurses ask when exploring holistic and functional healthcare: can a registered nurse or nurse practitioner become certified in functional medicine?

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

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

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

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

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

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

This conversation dives into:

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

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

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

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

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

So you’re thinking about starting a holistic nursing business? Amazing. But before you launch that website or invest in a program, there are a few things you need to hear—things most people don’t tell you when you’re just starting out.

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

You’ll hear hard-earned truths like:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our courses and programs at www.fxnursing.com.

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

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

Thinking about becoming a functional medicine nurse? Before you dive in, there are a few things you need to know.

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

We’ll talk about:

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

• What makes functional medicine feel like coming home to nursing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing – Explore courses and training at www.fxnursing.com

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

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

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

• Simplifying to reduce overwhelm and prevent burnout

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

• How to handle slip-ups

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

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

• Why food sensitivities are not the root cause

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

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

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

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at fxnursing.com

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

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

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

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

In This Episode:

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

• Why supplement-first protocols often backfire

• How to ask better questions before spending thousands

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

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

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

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

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

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

• What makes a functional medicine nurse a disruptor

• Why questioning conventional care is a responsibility, not rebellion

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

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

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

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

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN) www.fxnursing.com

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

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

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

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

What We Cover in This Conversation:

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

Functional Nurses Offer: Register With Evexia Diagnostics

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

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

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN) www.fxnursing.com

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

We’ll talk about:

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

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

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

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

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN) www.fxnursing.com

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

Connect with Megan:

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

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

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

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

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

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing (IFN) www.fxnursing.com

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

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

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

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

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

With the foundational Functional Medicine for Nurses course coming to an end, many nurses are asking, what now? Brigitte Sager, DNP answers that question and maps out the next steps for nurses who want to bring functional approaches into practice. She explains why functional nursing is more than a rebrand, how it reclaims nursing roles as healers, teachers, and leaders, and why nurses need clear scope, community, and clinical support to apply these concepts safely.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode, Brigitte Sager DNP discusses the importance of establishing healthy boundaries for nurse entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the need for clear communication, setting expectations with patients, and managing appointments effectively to improve patient care and prevent burnout. The conversation covers various strategies for maintaining boundaries, including cancellation policies, limiting the scope of visits, and ensuring self-care for nursing professionals.

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

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

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

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

Be well!

Sponsored by the Institute for Functional Nursing. Learn more about our programs at www.fxnursing.com

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

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

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

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

Connect with Barb Hudak:

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

In this conversation, Brigitte Sager DNP discusses the evolving landscape of functional nursing, emphasizing the importance of nurses as advocates for change in healthcare. She highlights the need for a shift towards a more holistic approach to patient care, where nurses can utilize their skills to address root causes of health issues. The discussion also covers the significance of certification in functional nursing, the establishment of a supportive community for nurses, and the future of functional nursing education.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this conversation, Brigitte Sager, DNP discusses the essential mindset shifts that nurse entrepreneurs need to embrace in order to successfully charge for their services and establish their practices. She emphasizes the importance of valuing one's time, setting boundaries, and avoiding the pitfalls of offering free advice. The discussion also covers the significance of discovery calls and how they should not be treated as free consultations. Ultimately, Brigitte encourages nurses to recognize their expertise and charge accordingly, as this not only benefits them but also the nursing profession as a whole.

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Dr. Ashley Shrader shares her journey from conventional nursing to functional medicine, emphasizing the importance of gut and hormone health. She discusses her personal health challenges, particularly with autoimmune issues, and how they shaped her approach to patient care. Dr. Shrader highlights the unique needs of endurance athletes and the significance of group support in health transformation. She also shares insights on starting a functional medicine practice and the vital role nurses play in this evolving healthcare landscape.

Connect with Ashley:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Tamra Garrick, a board-certified family nurse and founder of Ritual Wellness, shares her journey from sports marketing to nursing. She discusses holistic health, the role of athletics in shaping her approach, common misconceptions about nursing, and the importance of collaboration in functional medicine.

Connect with Tamra:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode, Brigitte Sager DNP interviews Lindsay Vanderstraeten, a critical care nurse with a passion for integrative and functional medicine. Lindsay shares her journey from traditional nursing to exploring holistic practices, including yoga, meditation, and nurse coaching. They discuss the importance of addressing stress in healthcare, the role of nurse practitioners, and the evolving landscape of functional medicine. Lindsay emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to patient care and the significance of personal growth in the nursing profession.

Connect with Lindsay:

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

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

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

Be well!

This interview with Sarah Cook ND explores the challenges and strategies holistic health practitioners face when marketing their services. Sarah shares her journey from practicing naturopathic medicine to becoming a content creator, emphasizing efficient marketing, the use of AI tools, and the importance of finding one’s voice in entrepreneurship. The conversation also covers mindset blocks, foundational content, repurposing strategies, and new resources available to support practitioners.

Connect with Sarah:

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode, Brigitte Sager interviews Shantrece Davis, a nurse practitioner and transformational life coach, about her journey from marketing to holistic nursing. They explore empowering women over 35 through functional nutrition, mindset shifts, and group coaching. The conversation highlights the value of community, personalized wellness, and tools like ChatGPT to support growth in both life and business.

Connect with Shantrece:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager DNP shares her insights from the annual international conference for the Institute for Functional Medicine (AIC). She discusses the themes that emerged during the conference, including the importance of connection and purpose in healthcare, the role of technology in patient care, and the significance of nutrition and group medical visits. Brigitte emphasizes the need for research to validate functional medicine practices and explores future directions for functional nursing.

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, nurse coach Laura Alessio shares her journey from public health nursing to legal nurse consulting and ultimately to nurse coaching. The conversation explores integrating functional medicine with nurse coaching, celebrating client wins, and how personal health experiences shape professional practice. Topics include the differences between mindfulness and meditation, the challenges of building a coaching practice, and strategies for explaining the nurse coach role. The episode also highlights the importance of advocacy, networking, and community building within the functional medicine and nursing fields, encouraging aspiring nurse coaches to follow their passions.

Ways to connect with Laura:

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager discusses the importance of memberships in functional nursing practices. She explores how memberships can provide ongoing support for patients, create predictable income for nurses, and foster community engagement. The conversation delves into the benefits of memberships for both nurses and patients, including flexibility, recurring revenue, and improved patient outcomes. Brigitte also shares insights on designing effective membership offerings and strategies for launching and sustaining a successful membership program.

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Natalie Mullen from Practice Better shares innovative strategies for holistic nurses to grow their practices while avoiding burnout. She explores key features of Practice Better, including group coaching, online courses, and membership models to boost patient engagement. The discussion emphasizes building client trust through challenges and email marketing, customizing services for diverse needs, and using community support and feedback to manage time and expand offerings. Natalie also addresses overcoming fears in entrepreneurship and using templates to streamline processes, highlighting the power of connection in the wellness space.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

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

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

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager welcomes back Bev Mazza, a board-certified nurse coach and integrative health consultant. They discuss Bev’s shift to focusing on blood sugar management for pre-diabetic and menopausal women, covering continuous glucose monitoring, stress regulation, and personalized care. The conversation also explores structuring services, pricing, client attraction, networking, and the role of education in functional medicine and corporate wellness initiatives.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager DNP shares insights from the AANP Health Policy Conference, emphasizing the importance of nurse practitioners in advocating for healthcare policy changes. She discusses the challenges faced by nurse practitioners, particularly in rural areas, and highlights key statistics about their impact on patient care. The conversation also covers the need for better representation and advocacy within the nursing profession, as well as the importance of addressing misinformation and funding for nursing initiatives.

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

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

Be well!

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP explores the opportunities and challenges for nurses interested in entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of understanding state regulations, scope of practice, and patient safety when starting a business. She highlights the need for legal guidance, especially when incorporating services beyond traditional nursing roles. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about nursing, the significance of nursing diagnoses in holistic care, and the growing trend of nurse practitioners gaining full practice authority. She encourages nurses to navigate these complexities while embracing business ownership.

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

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

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

Be well!

On this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP interviews Brooke Forsythe, a nurse with 18 years of experience who shares her journey through mental health challenges and the importance of mindset in healthcare. Brooke discusses her transition from wanting to be an accountant to becoming a nurse, her struggles with anxiety and depression, and how she found healing through mindset work and coaching. She emphasizes the need for a shift in the healthcare system towards more holistic approaches and the value of nurse coaching.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this bonus episode, Brigitte Sager DNP introduces the Holistic Nursing Entrepreneur Program, designed for nurses and nurse practitioners seeking to establish their own practices. She discusses the journey of becoming a nurse entrepreneur, the development of the program, and the comprehensive course structure that includes insights from founding nurses and expert interviews. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support, marketing strategies, and legal considerations for aspiring nurse entrepreneurs.

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

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

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

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

Be well! 🌿

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager explores how holistic and functional nurses can lead the way in transforming healthcare through advocacy. From improving school nutrition to hospital meals and influencing policy, Brigitte shares actionable steps for nurses to create meaningful change. Inspired by a discussion with Dr. Barbara Dossey, this episode highlights the power of nurses' voices in shaping a healthier future. Learn how you can get involved and make an impact in your community.

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

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

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

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

Be well!

On this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP interviews Karina Landing RN, a seasoned healthcare professional who has transitioned from traditional nursing to functional medicine and wellness coaching. Karina shares her journey through various nursing roles, her insights into the challenges faced by mid-career professionals, and how she integrates technology with functional medicine to empower her clients. The conversation explores the importance of personalized health strategies, the role of coaching in health transformation, and the evolution of nursing informatics in the digital age. In this conversation, Karina and Brigitte discuss the evolution of healthcare technology, the importance of choosing the right platforms for practice, and the integration of various systems to enhance patient experience. They explore the challenges of entrepreneurship in healthcare, the balance between nursing responsibilities and business management, and the significance of marketing in reaching patients. The discussion emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to find fulfillment in their careers by aligning their work with their passions and values.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!

On this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, Brigitte Sager, DNP discusses the important distinctions between education, recommendations, and prescribing within the nursing scope of practice. She emphasizes the role of nurses in educating patients, the nuances of making recommendations, and the importance of empowering patients to make informed decisions about their health. The conversation also touches on the use of online dispensaries for quality supplements and the significance of clear communication in nursing practice.

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

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

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

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

Be well!

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP interviews Andrew Newland, co-founder of Functional Medicine Marketing. They discuss the importance of functional medicine in healthcare, the challenges of implementing these practices at home, and the critical role nurses play in the future of healthcare. Andrew shares insights on effective marketing strategies for functional medicine practices, emphasizing the need for community engagement and building trust with potential clients. He also highlights the significance of SEO over social media in reaching the right audience.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be well!