The Functional Nurse Podcast - Nursing in Functional Medicine

In this episode of the Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager DNP speaks with Barb Hudak, RN, BSN, MS, a former military nurse and expert in holistic health. They discuss Barb's journey in nursing, the importance of emotional resilience, and the integration of HeartMath techniques into nursing practice. The conversation highlights the impact of stress on healthcare professionals and the need for self-care. Barb shares insights on creating a positive work environment and the significance of blending science and spirit in nursing. They also explore heart rate variability and its relevance to patient care, emphasizing the importance of nurses taking care of themselves to better serve their patients. Learn more about HRV in Dr. Sager's recent blog post: Heart Rate Variability for Nurses: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Use It in Practice Connect with Barbara: Visit her website: www.heartfulintegrations.com Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartful.integrations/   💻 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 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/ Website: https://www.holistichealthcode.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: Email: L.Vanderstraeten11@gmail.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!

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 FREE Chat Made Simple: https://www.wellnesswriter.com/customize BrandVibe AI Starter Pack: https://www.wellnesswriter.com/starter-pack-sale   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: ➡️ https://www.nursecoachalessio.com/www.nursecoachalessio.com   ➡️ https://www.facebook.com/share/16PC2fRegf/?mibextid=wwXIfr   ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/nursecoachalessio/   ➡️ https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-alessiornmsnphnncbc/   ➡️ https://linktr.ee/nursecoachalessio   ➡️ www.youtube.com/@NurseCoachAlessio   ➡️ https://x.com/RNCoachAlessio     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!

In this episode of The Functional Nurse Podcast, host Brigitte Sager, DNP discusses the evolving role of nurses in Functional Medicine and how they can advocate for their place in healthcare settings. She emphasizes the importance of patient education, the potential for nurses to lead group medical visits, and the need for nurses to step into entrepreneurial roles to better serve patients. The conversation highlights the barriers nurses face and encourages them to create opportunities within their current practices or through new ventures.   💻 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, 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://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, 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.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, 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-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!

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://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 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-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, 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-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!

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 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!