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The Berne Podcast with Dr. Sam Berne cover art

The Berne Podcast with Dr. Sam Berne

The Berne Podcast with Dr. Sam Berne

Written by: Dr. Sam Berne - Holistic Eye Health
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 Welcome to The Berne Podcast, a thought-provoking and informative journey with Dr. Sam Berne, an expert behavioral optometrist, and holistic health practitioner. Delve deep into the world of functional vision, eye wellness, and natural solutions for common and complex vision issues. Each episode explores Dr. Berne’s unique physical vision therapy protocols, integrating natural and holistic techniques to improve eye health, enhance vision, and support overall well-being. Whether you’re curious about functional vision therapy, seeking non-invasive ways to care for your eyes, or want to learn more about natural approaches to eye health, this podcast offers valuable insights for practitioners and individuals alike. Join Dr. Berne for engaging discussions, expert interviews, and actionable advice that will inspire you to see the world in a whole new way—naturally and holistically. Alternative & Complementary Medicine Hygiene & Healthy Living
Episodes
  • Rewiring Vision

    Rewiring Vision
    Oct 27 2025
    Bio: Dr. Sam Berne, OD, BF (Behavioral Optometry)** brings over 40 years of pioneering work at the intersection of vision science, neuroplasticity, and whole-person wellness. Based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, he is both a clinician and thought-leader in holistic and integrative eye care. Qualifications & Training * B.S., Pennsylvania State University * Doctor of Optometry, Pennsylvania College of Optometry * Post-doctoral fellowship at the Gesell Institute, affiliated with Yale University, focusing on infant/child development. ([Dr. Sam Berne][1]) *Certified in Iridology by Dr. Ellen Jensen * Licensure in multiple states (including New Mexico and Hawaiʻi), with advanced training in behavioral/neuro-developmental optometry. ([Dr. Sam Berne Professional Focus Dr. Berne’s approach goes beyond traditional eye exams. He treats vision as a dynamic system of eye-brain-body interaction, using modalities such as vision therapy, color/light therapy, somatic movement, craniosacral work, and nutritional support. Career Highlights * Founded a private practice in Santa Fe that has served children and adults with vision difficulties, learning disorders, traumatic brain injury, and neuro-sensory challenges for over three decades. * Authored multiple books and educational resources, including *Creating Your Personal Vision* and *Vital Vision*, bridging clinical practice with holistic perspective. * International presenter and retreat leader in holistic vision, teaching in locations such as Hawaiʻi, Mexico, Europe and Russia. * Faculty member of the Esalen Institute (Big Sur, CA), leading retreats in whole-health, vision, color therapy and subtle energy. Signature Programs & Innovations * **Functional Vision Integrative Body™ Certification**: a practitioner training program integrating functional vision, somatic movement and holistic eye-brain protocols. * Holistic retreat offerings (e.g., multi-day vision & transformation retreats) grounded in his belief that vision healing is as much about the nervous system, body processes and energy as it is about lenses. * A dedicated focus on conditions often underserved in conventional optometry such as cataracts, macular degeneration, post-viral vision dysfunction, and neuro-plastic enhancement of vision. Mission & Philosophy Dr. Berne’s mission is to empower people to **see clearer, feel better and live brighter**. He challenges the default model of “prescribe-and-manage” by addressing root causes, leveraging neuroplasticity and designing personalized pathways for vision improvement. He states: “Vision is not only about the eyes—it is the organ of light, tied to how the brain, body and spirit work together.” Why People Seek Him Out Individuals come to Dr. Berne when they are ready to: * Explore alternatives to surgery or stronger prescriptions * Reconnect vision with systemic health, brain function and lifestyle * Navigate complex cases (learning-related vision issues, brain injury, progressive ocular conditions) with integrative and functional tools * Participate in immersive experiences (retreats/workshops) that shift not just their vision but their entire visual system and life patterns Contact & Offerings * Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico * Clinic: Holistic Eye Care & Vision Therapy * Online: Tele-medicine, practitioner training, membership portals and global reach * Workshops: In-person retreats and online deep-dives in vision, neuroplasticity and whole-system health **Dr. Sam Berne** stands at the nexus of vision science, holistic health and transformational coaching, offering a unique pathway for those who refuse to live by limits in their eyesight—or in their lives. Join Dr. Sam Berne for These Upcoming Events: 🌀 In-Person Workshop – November 8 A full-day immersion in holistic vision and neuroplastic healing. 💻 5-Week Online Workshop – Begins November 12 Experience Dr. Berne’s Functional Vision methods from anywhere in the ...
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    10 mins
  • Macular Health Q&A: Reducing Risk, Repairing, and Restoring Vision

    Macular Health Q&A: Reducing Risk, Repairing, and Restoring Vision
    Oct 21 2025
    For even more from Dr. Sam, check out his new exclusive membership where you get access to my content and resources, new information, articles, videos, webinars: https://drsambernesmembership.com/ Check out his new documentary here: https://www.drsamberne.com/dr-bernes-documentary/ And his upcoming November 8th workshop at the Geodome His 5 week online course starting November 12th Or his Kauai Retreat February 19th-24th, 2026 https://www.drsamberne.com/workshop/ Keywords macula bleed, eye health, nutrition, functional medicine, angiogenesis, retinal health, dietary absorption, blue light, antioxidants, vision improvement Summary In this episode of the iClarity podcast, Dr. Sam Berne discusses a listener's question about macula bleed, a serious eye condition. He explains the importance of the macula, the implications of bleeding, and the role of nutrition in maintaining eye health. Dr. Berne emphasizes the need for a holistic approach, including dietary changes and potential treatments, to improve retinal health and manage conditions like macular degeneration. Takeaways The macula is crucial for detail and color vision. Macula bleed can lead to serious complications if untreated. Angiogenesis occurs when the macula is starved for nutrients. Nutrition plays a significant role in eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for retinal health. Monitoring glucose levels is important for eye conditions. A ketogenic diet may benefit those with macular issues. Antioxidants like saffron and curcumin support eye health. Blue light exposure can harm the retina. Avoiding progressive lenses can help with macular problems. Sound bites "The macula is bleeding." "Check your glucose levels." "I wish you the very best." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 00:29 Understanding Macula Bleed and Its Implications 02:51 The Importance of Nutrition for Eye Health 04:30 Systemic and Metabolic Factors Affecting Macular Health 06:55 Practical Tips for Managing Macular Health Keep Up with Dr. Sam Website: https://www.drsamberne.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SamBerneOD/?fref=ts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samberneod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/drsamberne LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsamberne/ Dr. Sam Berne has been in private practice in New Mexico for over 25 years and where he works with patients to improve their vision and overall wellness through holistic methods. He holds a Bachelor of Science from Pennsylvania State University, Doctor of Optometry from Pennsylvania College, and did his postdoctoral work at the Gesell Institute in collaboration with Yale University. He has been awarded The Special Awards for Service from the Behavioral Optometrists in Mexico for his innovative and holistic work with children. His protocols take a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to health and wellness. He understands and treats the body as one integrated system rather than a collection of independent organs in order to identify and address the root causes of disease. His whole health protocols improve vision and wellness by healing the mind-body-spirit through nutritional protocols, vision therapy, and self-care techniques. This views each person as genetically and biochemically unique and enables the individual to make lifelong improvements to their well-being.
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    9 mins
  • Beyond Sight: A Masterclass in Holistic Vision Healing

    Beyond Sight: A Masterclass in Holistic Vision Healing
    Oct 12 2025
    Step inside a rare live recording with Dr. Sam Berne, internationally recognized holistic optometrist, as he works one-on-one with participants in an intimate masterclass setting. In this special session, you’ll witness insightful techniques and personalized prescriptions, hear practical guidance for dry eye relief, and discover powerful exercises to improve visual coordination and whole-body integration. More than a lecture, this podcast captures the energy of real-time healing and transformation—showing how vision connects to brain, body, and nervous system. Whether you’re looking for fresh solutions to eye challenges or inspiration for your own journey to clear, vibrant sight, this masterclass offers both education and empowerment. 🎬 New Documentary: Beyond Sight – A Journey into Holistic Vision Healing Experience Dr. Berne’s groundbreaking film that blends science, healing, and patient stories into a powerful exploration of how holistic vision care transforms lives. Beyond Sight takes you inside his unique Functional Vision Integrative Body™ method, featuring live workshops, case studies, and inspiring journeys of people reclaiming their eyesight and health.👉 https://www.drsamberne.com/dr-bernes-documentary/ 💻 Online Workshop – November 12th “The Eyes Never Lie: What Your Vision Reveals About Your Health”Join Dr. Berne for a 5-week online immersion beginning November 12th. This interactive course explores functional eye anatomy, iridology, dry eye solutions, light and color therapy, functional nutrition, and somatic practices to reset the nervous system. Each week includes practical tools you can use immediately to improve your vision and overall vitality.https://www.drsamberne.com/workshop/from-diagnosis-to-direction-5-weeks-of-eye-health-guidance/ 🌴 Holistic Vision Retreat – Kauai, Hawaii February 2026 | 8-Day ImmersionImagine learning holistic vision care surrounded by the beauty of Kauai. This exclusive retreat combines Dr. Berne’s hands-on training in functional vision therapy with somatic movement, vagus nerve reset practices, advanced color therapy, and practical techniques to reduce eye strain and improve clarity. Participants will also enjoy rejuvenating nature excursions and deep relaxation on the Garden Island. Spaces are limited to ensure personal attention.👉 Apply for the Kauai Retreat ✨ Whether you join from home through the November 12th online course, immerse yourself in the documentary, or experience the transformational retreat in Kauai, Dr. Berne invites you to go beyond the lens and discover what your vision truly reveals about your health and potential. And to access Dr. Berne's deeper information, join his membership: https://drsambernesmembership.com Sam Berne (00:00.182) recorded. Okay, great. All right. So Roberta, I've read over your history form. also have your prescription. I want to give you some advice on that. But what would be in your words, maybe a sentence or two, what your the things that are bothering you the most and what would be your goals and objectives? One thing about that prescription, was very recent. was not the prescription that I'm not using the lenses that that optometrist gave me. Because I asked him to make the same type of glasses that you had given me 20 years ago that I still use at night to drive with. But he added a stigmatism correction without my permission. see. I see that. Yeah, and a lot of a stigma, a lot of astigmatism. And well, you know, you get that prescription, it's gonna really, you know, lock down your eyes. I got it. And I put them on. I had them on for like, less than a minute. And I was dizzy, disassociated, nauseous, I had to actually go get bodywork to try to fix what those glasses to me. It was amazing. Anyway, we won't go into that. Yeah, that's why I'm here at the vision therapy. Okay, I was very excited to see it. Real quick. Say more, say more. Well, I just in October,
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    50 mins
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