In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson chats with Kristen Gilmore, the Program Manager for Nurse Well-Being at Jefferson Health, about what nurse well-being looks like when it’s thoughtfully designed and fully integrated into the workplace. Kristen shares how her inaugural, grant-funded role supports nurses across all career stages – from new graduate nurses to nurse leaders. The conversation explores how Jefferson Health embeds well-being directly into clinical environments through nurse coaching and therapy-based programs, including pet, music, and art therapy, without disrupting patient care. Listeners will gain insight into why stress drives incivility and turnover, how proactive support improves retention, and why investing in nurse well-being is a leadership responsibility, not a perk. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What an effective nurse well-being role actually looks like How therapy-based programs support nurses during their shifts Why stress fuels incivility and unhealthy work cultures How nurse coaching strengthens new graduate confidence and retention Why leadership well-being is essential to workforce stability About Kristen Gilmore Kristen Gilmore, MSN, RN, CEN, TCRN, NE-BC, NC-BC, is the inaugural Program Manager for Nurse Well-Being at Jefferson Health, supporting the Bucks, Frankford, Einstein Montgomery, and Torresdale campuses. She has a background in emergency nursing and nursing leadership and is deeply committed to advancing clinician well-being. Kristen serves as President of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) and chairs the ENA National Wellness Committee. She is a board-certified nurse coach, Certified SMART Practitioner, national speaker, and co-author in the Journal of Emergency Nursing. Her work focuses on integrating evidence-informed well-being strategies into real-world clinical settings. Links & Resources Email Kristen: Kristen.Gilmore@Jefferson.edu Connect with Kristen on LinkedIn Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here!  Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this special year-end episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson closes out 2025 with reflection, clarity, and intention. Instead of a traditional recap, Renee shares what truly stood out to her this year – the ideas that shaped her thinking, the language she kept returning to, and the lessons that influenced how she leads, coaches, and lives. Through personal stories and professional insight, Renee explores the power of truth paired with grace, the difference between a judger lens and a learner lens, and why having a clear vision for culture matters more than ever. She also reflects on boundaries, productivity, and self-leadership, offering listeners permission to protect their time, energy, and well-being. This episode is perfect for healthcare leaders who want to end the year grounded and begin the next one intentionally. About Dr. Renee Thompson Dr. Renee Thompson is a leading authority on creating healthy work cultures by eliminating bullying and incivility in healthcare. With more than 31 years of experience as a clinical nurse, educator, quality manager, and executive leader, she has become one of the most sought-after experts on workplace culture. As CEO and Founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute, Renee works with healthcare organizations around the world to equip leaders with the tools they need to cultivate professional, respectful, and supportive teams. Renee is a published author, award-winning speaker, and one of only 30 nurses worldwide to earn the Certified Speaking Professional designation. She also serves on The Joint Commission’s Workplace Violence Technical Advisory Panel and has been recognized globally for her thought leadership and advocacy. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why effective feedback requires both truth and grace – and what happens when one is missing How shifting from a judger lens to a learner lens changes growth, resilience, and self-leadership Why leaders must clearly articulate and repeatedly communicate their vision for culture How “space and permission” create safer conversations about behavior and accountability What setting “bumpers” can teach us about boundaries, productivity, and sustainability Why being an “advice monster” can get in the way of real leadership and coaching How protecting yourself as the asset benefits your team, organization, and future Practical reflection prompts to help you move from 2025 into 2026 with intention Links & Resources Connect with and follow Dr. Renee Thompson on LinkedIn Learn more about the Healthy Workforce Institute on their LinkedIn and website Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and Amazon #1 Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders on Amazon  here! And on the website here.  Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Dr. Heidi Kosanke to explore one of the most critical, and often overlooked, issues in nursing today: how we prepare and support preceptors and students during the transition to practice. Together, Renee and Heidi unpack what shifted in clinical education after the pandemic, why so many preceptors feel unprepared, and how this gap directly impacts new graduate confidence, communication, and retention. Heidi shares insights from her research and real-world experience, including how inadequate preceptor preparation can unintentionally contribute to stress, incivility, and unsafe learning environments. This episode is especially valuable for nurse leaders, educators, academic partners, and anyone invested in creating stronger academic–practice partnerships and healthier transitions for new nurses. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why the transition to practice really begins in the final semester of nursing school The hidden gaps in traditional preceptor training programs How poor preparation contributes to stress, incivility, and moral distress Practical strategies to support preceptors, students, and faculty Why well-being and clinical judgment must be taught together How academic–practice partnerships can become a true win–win About Dr. Heidi Kosanke Dr. Heidi Kosanke, DNP, MSN/Ed, RN, is an Assistant Clinical Professor and Program Director at the University of Arizona College of Nursing. She has over 20 years of nursing experience and is passionate about preparing practice-ready nurses who can remain resilient in the face of challenges. Heidi is the co-author of Building Social Resilience in Nursing, a workbook designed to help nursing students develop strong social support systems and positive coping skills. Her work focuses on improving the confidence, well-being, and self-efficacy of nurse preceptors so they can better support students and new graduate nurses during the transition to practice. Links & Resources Connect with Dr. Heidi Kosanke on LinkedIn Email Heidi at heidi@enhancedpreceptors.com Check out her company on LinkedIn Check out her website: www.enhancedpreceptors.com Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Dr. Tera Gross, Chief Nursing Officer at Mayo Clinic in Florida, for a thoughtful and practical conversation about what it truly takes to lead well in today’s healthcare environment. A seasoned nurse executive and national nursing leader, Tera shares how intentional leadership development, strong relationships, and a quality improvement mindset can shape culture, improve outcomes, and reduce disruptive behaviors across teams. From fostering psychological safety to equipping leaders with the skills to give and receive feedback, this episode is packed with real-world insights leaders can immediately apply. This conversation is especially valuable for nurse leaders, executives, and anyone responsible for shaping culture in complex healthcare systems. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why leadership development must go beyond technical skills and focus on relationships, influence, and trust How fostering a culture of feedback improves accountability and psychological safety Practical strategies for addressing disruptive behavior with curiosity, clarity, and consistency How quality improvement is a mindset, not just a project Why interprofessional leadership alignment is essential to a healthy work culture Lessons from Tera’s leadership journey and how reflection shapes better leaders About Dr. Tera Gross Tera L. Gross, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, CENP, FACHE, is the Chief Nursing Officer for Mayo Clinic in Florida. She has served in progressive leadership roles at Mayo Clinic for nearly 25 years in both Minnesota and Florida. Tera is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Assistant Professor of Nursing at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, and a recipient of the Diamond Quality Fellow Award from the Mayo Quality Fellows Program. She currently serves as Region 4 Director on the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) Board of Directors and is passionate about empowering healthcare leaders to thrive through quality improvement, integrity, and intentional leadership.  Links & Resources Connect with Dr. Tera Gross on LinkedIn Email Tera at gross.tera@mayo.edu Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Dr. Courtney Ruck, Divisional Director for Critical Care at Tower Health and one of the organization’s champions for creating a culture of civility. A nurse leader who blends compassion, accountability, and action, Courtney shares her personal journey – from being a new nurse afraid to speak up to becoming a DNP-prepared leader determined to break the cycle of bullying and incivility in healthcare. Courtney opens up about her early experiences with disruptive behavior, how those moments shaped her leadership, and why psychological safety is non-negotiable in today’s demanding healthcare environment. She and Renee discuss the power of collective learning, the impact of equipping leaders with real scripts and strategies, and the importance of building a culture where accountability and kindness coexist. Anyone who wants to strengthen team culture, support new nurses, or become a more confident leader will find this conversation incredibly relatable…and encouraging. About Dr. Courtney Ruck Courtney Ruck, DNP, RN, SCRN, NEA-BC, is the Divisional Director for Critical Care at Tower Health in Reading, PA. With more than eight years of leadership experience, she is known for elevating patient care, advancing professional practice, and creating supportive, high-performing teams. Courtney previously served as Nursing Unit Director of the Neuroscience Stroke Unit at Reading Hospital, leading expansion efforts and implementing innovative engagement strategies. Courtney earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from West Chester University, where she focused on leadership support and bedside engagement to build a culture of civility. She is passionate about developing future nurse leaders and fostering environments where accountability, compassion, and clinical excellence thrive. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why culture shaped Courtney’s leadership journey,  including the early experiences with bullying that motivated her to work toward safer, kinder environments. How leaders can build psychological safety so new nurses feel supported, confident, and willing to speak up. The power of cohort learning and how bringing 70+ nurse leaders together created shared language, alignment, and vulnerability across Tower Health. Why scripts matter and how using structured communication tools helps leaders address disruptive behavior with clarity and not avoidance. How to embed Healthy Workforce practices into everyday leadership, including making “Healthy Workforce” a standing agenda item. Simple, practical cultural strategies — from welcoming new hires with intention to preparing for difficult conversations. A fun closing surprise: Courtney’s obsession with sourdough baking…and why learning new skills fuels her joy. Links & Resources Connect with Dr. Courtney Ruck on LinkedIn Email Courtney at courtney.ruck@towerhealth.org Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Dennis W. Pullin, FACHE, President and CEO of Virtua Health and an influential voice in healthcare leadership. Known for his commitment to being a “champion of humanity” and for leading with presence, purpose, and heart, Dennis shares insights on culture, authenticity, and what it truly means to show up as a leader. From discussing the leadership lessons woven through his Amazon bestselling book Suited for Leadership to exploring how he fosters respect and belonging across a large health system, Dennis offers a powerful reminder that great leadership isn’t about status…it’s about how you treat people. If you want to learn how to lead with courage, authenticity, and humanity, this episode is for you. About Dennis Pullin Dennis W. Pullin, FACHE, is the President and CEO of Virtua Health, an academic health system in New Jersey serving communities across more than 400 locations. Widely recognized for his transformational leadership, Dennis has been named one of the Top 10 Healthcare Leaders in the U.S., a Top 25 Innovator, and one of Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People. A thought leader, board member, educator, and advocate for health equity, he is also the author of the bestselling book Suited for Leadership: How to Show Up with Purpose to Have a Lasting Impact. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Dennis defines being “suited” for leadership — and why it has nothing to do with clothing Why authenticity is the most attractive trait in a leader How he creates a culture of respect, belonging, and shared purpose at Virtua Health What it looks like to hold people accountable at every level, including the highest Why vulnerability and continuous learning are essential leadership practices The “refrigerator moment” his mother gave him that still guides him today And yes…what makes the perfect margarita Links & Resources Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn Email Dennis: dmoise@virtua.org Grab a copy of his book, Suited for Leadership: How to Show Up with Purpose to Have Lasting Impact here.   Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In Part 2 of this two-part series, Dr. Renee Thompson continues exploring the updated edition of Enough! by focusing on Chapters 6–10. She breaks down practical strategies leaders can use to hold employees accountable, hardwire healthy cultural norms, strengthen communication, and weave kindness into daily practice. Renee also highlights new leadership skills needed in today’s workforce – including lateral agility, radical candor, multiverse communication, and becoming a leader-as-coach.  This episode gives leaders clear, actionable steps to address disruptive behaviors and build a respectful, professional work culture. About Dr. Renee Thompson Dr. Renee Thompson is a leading authority on creating healthy work cultures by eliminating bullying and incivility in healthcare. With more than 31 years of experience as a clinical nurse, educator, quality manager, and executive leader, she has become one of the most sought-after experts on workplace culture. As CEO and Founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute, Renee works with healthcare organizations around the world to equip leaders with the tools they need to cultivate professional, respectful, and supportive teams. Renee is a published author, award-winning speaker, and one of only 30 nurses worldwide to earn the Certified Speaking Professional designation. She also serves on The Joint Commission’s Workplace Violence Technical Advisory Panel and has been recognized globally for her thought leadership and advocacy. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why accountability begins with a strong partnership between leaders and HR How communicating your process builds trust and reassures employees What effective documentation should include — and why it matters Practical strategies to hardwire and sustain healthy cultural norms The impact of initiatives like Sacred Spaces, Shift Success, Mother Bear, and Red Carpet Treatment How kindness can serve as a powerful antidote to disruptive behaviors Four leadership skills essential for today’s workforce: lateral agility, radical candor, multiverse communication, and leader-as-coach How these chapters guide leaders to intervene early, prevent escalation, and create a respectful, professional workplace Links & Resources Connect with and follow Dr. Renee Thompson on LinkedIn Learn more about the Healthy Workforce Institute on their LinkedIn and website Check out part one where Renee discusses chapters 1-5 here.  Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and Amazon #1 Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders on Amazon  here! And on the website here.  Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson takes listeners behind the scenes of her newly updated book Enough! Eradicate Bullying and Incivility in Healthcare: Strategies for Frontline Leaders. This is Part 1 of a two-part series where she unpacks why she rewrote the book, what’s changed since the original 2019 release, and what leaders can immediately take away from the first five chapters. Renee shares vulnerable moments from her early leadership career, explains the “hidden virus” harming healthcare teams, and walks through mindset shifts and strategies leaders need to stop normalizing disruptive behaviors. She also covers the importance of awareness, the power of vision and behavioral expectations, and why confronting overt incivility is both essential and doable when leaders have the right tools. Listeners will walk away with practical strategies they can begin using today to address disruptive behaviors and foster a healthier, more professional work culture. About Dr. Renee Thompson Dr. Renee Thompson is a leading authority on creating healthy work cultures by eliminating bullying and incivility in healthcare. With more than 31 years of experience as a clinical nurse, educator, quality manager, and executive leader, she has become one of the most sought-after experts on workplace culture. As CEO and Founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute, Renee works with healthcare organizations around the world to equip leaders with the tools they need to cultivate professional, respectful, and supportive teams. Renee is a published author, award-winning speaker, and one of only 30 nurses worldwide to earn the Certified Speaking Professional designation. She also serves on The Joint Commission’s Workplace Violence Technical Advisory Panel and has been recognized globally for her thought leadership and advocacy. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why Renee chose to revise and expand her original 2019 book rather than write a new one The personal story in Chapter 1 that shaped her mission to eradicate bullying Why leaders must stop normalizing deviant behaviors How disruptive behavior threatens patient safety and fuels turnover A practical approach for having honest behavior-focused conversations with employees How to create a compelling vision and translate it into clear behavioral expectations Why scripting works — and how leaders can begin addressing overt behaviors with confidence What to expect in Part 2 of this series as she explores the remaining chapters Links & Resources Connect with and follow Dr. Renee Thompson on LinkedIn Learn more about the Healthy Workforce Institute on their LinkedIn and website Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and Amazon #1 Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders on Amazon  here! And on the website here.  Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson chats with Dr. Penelope (Penny) Gorsuch, Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive at Summa Health. With 38 years in healthcare and 28 in leadership – including 28 years in the U.S. Air Force – Penny shares how she’s transforming Summa’s culture through evidence-based leadership and a clear nursing vision: “To deliver care beyond expectations.” From rebuilding professional governance to reducing ED turnover from 80% to zero, Penny’s approach shows what’s possible when leaders align vision, strategy, and implementation. If you’re ready to move beyond talking about healthy work environments and start building one that lasts, this episode is for you. About Dr. Penelope Gorsuch Penelope Gorsuch, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, EBP-C, FACHE, USAF Col (Retired), is the Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive at Summa Health. With more than 38 years in healthcare and 28 in leadership, she is known for fostering cultures of inquiry that drive quality and reliability across large health systems. A retired Colonel from the United States Air Force, Penny has led major initiatives in nursing strategy, evidence-based practice, and relationship-based care. She also serves as an Assistant Professor at The Ohio State University College of Nursing, teaching leadership in their DNP Executive track. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to lead large-scale culture change using evidence-based frameworks The importance of vision and how to cascade it from the C-suite to the bedside Strategies for rebuilding professional governance and re-engaging nurses How evidence-based practice strengthens healthy work environments Why implementation must be tailored at the unit level to succeed Links & Resources Connect with Penny on LinkedIn Email Penny at gorsuchp@summahealth.org  EP 98: Why Healthy Work Environments Are Non-Negotiable - Healthy Workforce Institute with Dr. Vicki Good Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson chats with Dr. Christine Young, Chief Nursing Officer at Akron Children’s Hospital and President of the Ohio Organization for Nursing Leadership. Christine shares how she’s helping her team build a culture where nurses feel valued, supported, and inspired to stay. They talk about how mission and purpose fuel retention, the importance of well-being, and why giving nurses a voice in decision-making leads to stronger engagement. Christine also highlights the success of Akron Children’s RN Career Path program and their Rising Nurse Leader Academy – two initiatives transforming nurse development and retention. If you’re a leader looking for real-world examples of what works to create a healthy work culture, this episode is for you. About Dr. Christine Young Christine Young, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, joined Akron Children’s in 2012 and currently serves as Chief Nursing Officer. She has more than 30 years of nursing experience and 25 years in leadership. Christine led the design and implementation of Akron Children’s virtual nursing program and oversees behavioral health, perinatal, surgical, inpatient, and respiratory care services across the region. She’s also President of the Ohio Organization for Nursing Leadership. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How culture directly impacts nurse retention Strategies to engage a multi-generational workforce Why involving staff nurses in decisions is non-negotiable How to develop and retain nurse leaders Ways to rebuild connection and teamwork after the pandemic Links & Resources Connect with Christine on LinkedIn Email Christine at cyoung2@akronchildrens.org Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with communication expert Kelli Newman, APR, President of Newman & Newman, to explore how communication shapes trust, engagement, and culture within healthcare organizations. Together, Renee and Kelli break down the difference between brand messaging (what your organization says it stands for) and values messaging (how those values show up in daily behavior). They discuss practical strategies for translating words into authentic experiences, so that what your organization says aligns with what your people actually feel and see every day. Kelli shares how the words leaders choose (and how they live them out) directly influence how employees connect, collaborate, and trust one another. If you’ve ever wondered how to bring your mission, vision, and values to life, or how to communicate in a way that builds genuine trust, this episode is for you. About Kelli Newman Kelli Newman, APR, is President of Newman & Newman, a Houston-based, woman-owned communication strategies firm. For more than 30 years, she’s helped healthcare and nonprofit organizations create authentic brand and values messaging that strengthens culture and builds trust. She’s also the creator of Experienced Messaging®, a proprietary, trademarked process that helps leaders align what they say with what people experience. Kelli teaches marketing and communication at Rice University’s Leadership Institute for Nonprofit Executives and is an active member of the Ignite Health Network, a coalition of women leaders influencing the future of healthcare. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why communication is the cornerstone of trust and engagement The difference between brand messaging and values messaging How to make organizational values tangible and actionable Simple ways to connect your department’s identity with the organization’s mission Why “scripting” doesn’t work and what authentic communication looks like instead How to align messaging, behaviors, and experiences to create a culture of integrity Links & Resources Visit ExperiencedMessaging.com Connect with Kelli on LinkedIn Email: kn@newmanandnewmaninc.com Harvard Business Review: Begin with Trust   Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, I sit down with the ever-inspiring Dr. Joy Parchment, Assistant Professor at the University of Central Florida College of Nursing and one of the most respected nurse leaders I know. Joy and I talk about what it really takes to develop capable executive leaders — the kind who not only drive outcomes but also build strong, trusting relationships with their teams. We unpack the difference between “command and control” leadership and relational leadership, how to handle conflict with curiosity, and why self-awareness is the foundation for leading well. This is an honest, heart-centered conversation about leadership, humanity, and the power of relationships. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to have all the answers or struggled to stay calm in the storm, this episode will remind you that the best leaders don’t lead from perfection — they lead from awareness and authenticity. About Dr. Joy Parchment Joy Parchment, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, CPDC, ACC, is an accomplished nurse leader, educator, and coach with over 35 years of diverse nursing experience. She serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Central Florida College of Nursing and is a Commissioner on the ANCC Commission on Magnet®. Joy is deeply committed to helping nurse leaders grow their capacity to lead with confidence, compassion, and courage. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why building relationships is the foundation of effective leadership The power of curiosity over judgment when managing conflict How to recognize and manage your triggers as a leader Simple tools to help you stay intentional and grounded How self-talk shapes leadership mindset — and how to shift it Links & Resources Connect with Dr. Joy Parchment on LinkedIn. Email Joy: jparchme@gmail.com Book: Change Your Questions, Change Your Life by Dr. Marilee Adams Buckwheat Sprouted Flour Renee mentioned Book: The Next Conversation by Jefferson Fisher Coffee Break Podcast Episode with Dr. Simmy King here Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Greta Rosler, CEO and Principal of Radius Leaders, to talk about one of the most practical and transformative leadership tools in healthcare – strategic leader rounding. Greta shares how being intentional and present as a nurse leader can strengthen connection, improve engagement, and foster a healthier, more respectful culture. From developing measurable rounding frameworks to empowering staff through open-ended conversations, Greta explains how leaders can move beyond “checking the box” and make every round meaningful. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance visibility with strategy, or how to round without feeling like you’re putting out fires all day, this episode is for you. About Greta Rosler Greta Rosler, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, CPXP, is an experienced nurse leader with a background in frontline nursing leadership, patient experience, and professional development. She is the CEO and Principal of Radius Leaders, a nurse leader development partnership she founded in 2017. Through her Skilled Nurse Leader© and WIN Your Rounds© programs, Greta helps healthcare organizations strengthen leadership skills, improve engagement, and sustain healthy work environments. Her work has led to measurable improvements in turnover, patient experience, and nurse leader confidence. Greta is actively involved with the Pennsylvania Organization of Nurse Leaders (PONL), serves as a subject matter expert for multiple healthcare leadership organizations, and is currently pursuing her PhD in nurse leader self-efficacy and rounding effectiveness. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How strategic, intentional rounding builds trust and psychological safety Why most leaders struggle with rounding and how to fix it The difference between “checking the box” and creating meaningful engagement How to empower your team instead of enabling them Simple, open-ended questions that transform performance conversations Why presence and purpose are key to sustaining a healthy work culture Links & Resources Connect with Greta Rosler: LinkedIn Visit Radius Leaders: www.radiusleaders.com Email Greta: greta@radiusleaders.com Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book and #1 Amazon Best Seller Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Have a question for Renee? Email us at wecare@healthyworkforceinstitute.com to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! Disclosure: The host may be compensated for linking to other sites or for sales of products we link to. As an Amazon Associate, Coffee Break earns from qualifying purchases. Liked this episode? Rate, review, and share with your colleagues. Your support helps us reach more healthcare leaders working to create better work environments.

October is Bullying Prevention Month – a time when awareness of this global issue is amplified. In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson shares practical strategies that leaders can implement right away to stop the cycle of disruptive behaviors, create safer environments for staff and patients, and build healthier teams. Drawing from decades of experience coaching healthcare leaders, Renee unpacks four of the most common challenges leaders face and gives actionable solutions: from un-normalizing deviant behavior, to stopping overt incivility in the moment, to avoiding the trap of over-defending yourself, and addressing behaviors you didn’t personally witness. She also shares a bigger-picture approach: why workshops alone won’t solve this problem, why HR and the interprofessional team must be part of the solution, and how the Healthy Workforce Institute’s Framework can guide organizations toward real, lasting culture change. About Dr. Renee Thompson: Dr. Renee Thompson is a sought-after speaker, author, consultant, and leading authority on creating healthy workforces by eliminating bullying and incivility. With more than 31 years as a clinical nurse, nurse educator, quality manager, and nurse executive, Dr. Thompson is a leading authority on workplace bullying and incivility and spends the majority of her time working with healthcare leaders who want to cultivate a healthy workforce. Renee is the CEO and Founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute and has been repeatedly published, interviewed, and awarded for her work to eradicate disruptive behaviors in healthcare. In 2020, the Joint Commission invited Renee to become a member of their Workplace Violence Technical Advisory Panel. She has been published in numerous nursing journals and is a frequently invited guest on radio, podcasts, webinars, and online social media platforms. In 2016, Renee received the Nursing Excellence Award as a nurse entrepreneur to honor her work to eliminate workplace bullying. She received the first Outstanding Nursing Alumni for Excellence in Leadership Award and Distinguished  Alumni recognition from her alma mater and was a finalist in the Healthcare Heroes Awards as a Healthcare Provider. Her blog has won numerous awards as a Top Nursing Blog “must-read” by the online nursing community, and her anti-bullying videos are viewed by healthcare organizations around the world. Renee is one of only 30 nurses in the world who have achieved the prestigious certified speaking professional designation. In 2018, she was recognized as one of LinkedIn’s Top Ten Voices in Healthcare for her contribution to the global online healthcare community. In 2022, she was identified as one of the top 5 Nurse Influencers on LinkedIn. Also, in 2022, Renee was inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing for her work to eradicate disruptive behaviors in healthcare. Renee has a Master's degree in Nursing Education and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of Pittsburgh. Links & Resources Connect with and follow Dr. Renee Thompson on LinkedIn Learn more about the Healthy Workforce Institute on their LinkedIn and website Download your copy of our 33 Scripts to Address Disruptive Behavior When You Don’t Know What to Say Check out Renee Thompson’s newly revised book Enough! Eradicating Bullying & Incivility: Strategies for Front Line Leaders here! Check out Renee Thompson’s book Do No Harm Applies to Nurses Too! Strategies to Protect and Bully-proof Yourself at Work here! Learn more about the Eradicating Bullying & Incivility eLearning Program here! Check out the article: 3 Common Landmines to Avoid When You Confront Bullying Behavior

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Dina MacDonald, Nursing Director of the Maternal Newborn Center at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center, to talk about something we can all relate to – turning a toxic work environment into one where people actually want to come to work. Dina shares her personal journey from being the target of a bullying boss to becoming a leader who reshaped her department’s culture. She opens up about the power of accountability, why tough conversations are necessary, and how even the hardest decisions can set the tone for a healthier, more respectful workplace. If you’ve ever wondered how to deal with resistors, set clear expectations, and build a team that actually supports one another, this episode is for you.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Dr. Katherine Virkstis, Chief Clinical Officer at Get Well, to talk about the intersection of patient experience, staff well-being, and healthy workplace culture. Katherine shares Get Well’s inspiring origin story, which was founded by a patient who believed every person should be treated like a VIP, and how their digital tools now empower patients, reduce cognitive burden on staff, and foster joy in care delivery. She also explains how innovations like automated documentation, real-time feedback, and a digital kindness pledge are not just transforming patient experience, but also strengthening work cultures and reducing workplace aggression. You’ll hear practical strategies leaders can use right now to reduce stressors, support their teams, and create a safer, more respectful environment for both staff and patients.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson welcomes Patricia McGaffigan, President of the Certification Board for Professionals in Patient Safety at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. Patricia has dedicated her career to advancing patient and workforce safety, and she brings powerful insights into why safety cannot just be a project or fleeting priority – it must be an organization’s purpose. Together, Renee and Patricia explore the deep connection between patient safety and workforce well-being, the importance of shifting leadership mindsets, and practical strategies organizations can adopt to hardwire safety into their culture. Patricia also shares tools and frameworks leaders can start using immediately, including the National Action Plan, a new workplace violence reporting framework, and IHI’s Joy in Work framework. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of how every interaction impacts safety and why creating safer workplaces requires action at both the system and individual levels.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson talks with Dr. Jeff Doucette, Senior Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer at Press Ganey about two urgent issues in healthcare today: the alarming rise in workplace violence and the critical role of nurse leader engagement. Jeff shares insights from Press Ganey’s data on the alarming rise of workplace violence, revealing that three nurses are assaulted every hour in the U.S., and emphasizes why zero-tolerance cultures must start at the top. He also highlights the powerful connection between leader engagement and patient outcomes, offering strategies for creating safer, healthier, and more engaged work environments.

In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Dr. Rachel Culpepper, Nursing Director at Indiana University Health West Hospital, to explore how nurse leaders can better support managers in one of the hardest jobs in healthcare. Rachel shares practical strategies for guiding managers through conflict, coaching them to pause and fact-find before reacting, and navigating challenges with multi-generational teams. Listeners will walk away with actionable tools to help managers build trust, create accountability, and turn conflict into opportunities for growth.

In this milestone 100th episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson reflects on her journey of hosting conversations with extraordinary healthcare leaders who are shaping stronger, healthier work cultures. From Quint Studer’s insights on “emotional onboarding,” to Dr. Stacey Alves’s reminder that you “can’t lead from your desk,” to stories of kindness, recognition, and resilience from nurse leaders and executives across the country – Renee revisits the moments that resonated most over the past 100 episodes. This episode is both a celebration and a learning journey. Whether it’s tackling workplace violence, holding leaders accountable, or cultivating joy through recognition, listeners will walk away with practical strategies and renewed inspiration to create a culture where nurses and all healthcare professionals thrive.