AACN Voices in Nursing Podcast
American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) 43 episodes Nov 4, 2026
AACN Voices in Nursing Podcast features critical care nurses talking with leaders, innovators, and influencers. Episodes explore the ways nurses shape healthcare and the issues that matter in critical care. The show highlights nurses' perspectives, experiences, and impact on the healthcare system. It is produced by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.
Episodes
Ep. 047: What Nurses Hear After Everyone Else Leaves the Room
After the rest of the care team leaves, patients often share their true concerns with nurses: “I’m scared.” “I’m tired.” “I just want to go home.” Dr. Sheila Pierre-Louis explains why these moments are important clinical information, not side conversations. Through a powerful patient story, she shows how curiosity can create space for the patient’s voice in complex treatment decisions. Listen to t
Ep. 046: Inside a Haunted House Built for Nurse Learning
Nurse educator Sarah Warner takes listeners inside a Halloween-themed learning experience where zombies, skeletons and hands-on stations bring pressure injury prevention to life. She shares how her community hospital doubled voluntary participation, built immersive activities on a modest budget and used learner feedback and quality data to strengthen the program. Listen for practical ways to bring
Ep. 045: What It Takes to Nurse Through a Disaster
When disaster strikes, nurses may have to build a field hospital and make high-stakes decisions far from familiar systems. Critical care nurse Mary Jo Kelly takes listeners inside a Disaster Medical Assistance Team, revealing what deployment really demands when resources are limited. She explains how ICU skills translate in the field, what nurses should prepare before answering the call and how th
Ep. 044: When Nurses Shape Technology
Mary Joy Garcia Dia traces the unexpected path that took her from the bedside to the forefront of nursing informatics. She reflects on what technology can make possible when nurses help shape it, why virtual nursing can create meaningful patient interactions and how bedside clinicians can influence the systems they use every day. Her message is clear: Technology should extend nursing care, not co
Ep. 043: Sepsis Recovery Beyond Discharge
Sepsis survivor Rebecca Ferguson shares the hidden reality of post-sepsis syndrome and the years-long toll it took on her life. She reflects on the support that helped her survive, the gaps she encountered after discharge and the difficult path toward recovery. Her story urges nurses to look beyond the immediate crisis and recognize that healing may continue long after a patient leaves the hospita
Ep. 042: Recognizing Sepsis Before It's Too Late
Sepsis remains one of healthcare's greatest challenges, because early recognition can change a patient's outcome. Sara McMannus of Sepsis Alliance discusses why awareness matters for every nurse, shares the personal experiences that fuel her advocacy, and explains how nurses can strengthen early identification through clinical judgment, education and teamwork. Learn practical takeaways that suppor
Ep. 041: A Nurse’s Journey With Mercy Ships
What happens when nursing reaches communities with little access to surgical care? Laura Tice shares how volunteering with Mercy Ships challenged her clinical skills and expanded her perspective. With her deepened commitment to compassionate care, her story offers a powerful reminder that nursing expertise can transform lives no matter where patients live or what resources are available. This epi
Ep. 040: Every Voice, Every Story, Every Table With Tonka Williams
Meet AACN President Tonka Williams as she shares the story behind the AACN theme: Every Voice. Every Story. Every Table. Drawing on lessons from her mother’s kitchen table and her years at the bedside, Tonka reflects on what it means to create spaces where nurses feel they belong, where every perspective matters and where listening can be one of a leader’s greatest strengths.This episode is sponso
Ep. 039: Beyond Sedation - Reimagining ICU Care Through the ABCDEF Bundle (NTI Recording)
Recorded live at NTI, this special “Voices in Nursing” episode explores how care in an awake and walking ICU shaped one young patient’s recovery after a devastating stroke at age 23. Kali Dayton is joined by ICU nurse Kaira Miller and former patient Molly Kratzer, whose connection grew into a lasting friendship. Together, they discuss how communication, compassionate care and the ABCDEF Bundle hel
Ep. 037: The Truth About AI at the Bedside
AI is influencing patient care, clinical alerts and nursing workflows whether nurses realize it or not. Jerri Westphal, RN, breaks down what nurses need to understand about AI, where safety risks can emerge and why their clinical judgment remains essential. From alert fatigue to “hallucinations,” this conversation explores how nurses can confidently navigate the growing role of AI in healthcare.Th
Ep. 036: Trauma-Informed Care With Dr. Melanie Gray
Trauma shapes patient behavior and nurse well-being in ways we often overlook. Dr. Melanie Gray explains how trauma-informed care helps nurses recognize triggers, recognize and avoid personal prejudices and respond with intention. Learn practical strategies to manage secondary trauma, strengthen communication and create safer, more supportive care environments. A trauma-informed approach not only
Ep. 035: Nurse Leadership Well-Being That Drives Retention
Nurse leaders face relentless demands that often leave little room for self-care. In this episode, Dr. Robbin Young shares practical strategies to address leader burnout, from structured well-being initiatives to fostering a culture where rest and support are prioritized. Explore how investing in leadership health creates a ripple effect: strengthening teams, improving retention and elevating pati
Ep. 034: A Nurse’s Guide to Obstetric Critical Care in the ICU
Caring for a pregnant patient in the ICU can feel overwhelming — after all, you're supporting two lives at once. In this episode, Julie Kruithof breaks down a simple, memorable framework — the 3 Ps — to help you stay grounded in high-stakes moments. From understanding normal physiologic changes to building the best partnerships and plan, you’ll gain practical insights to provide support safe, conf
Ep. 033: Confronting Bullying and Incivility in Nursing
Bullying and incivility remain persistent challenges in healthcare, affecting nurses’ well-being, team dynamics and patient safety. In this episode, AACN podcast hosts speak with Dr. Renee Thompson, founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute, about why disruptive behaviors occur and how they differ from bullying. She shares practical strategies for nurses and leaders to address harmful behaviors,
Ep. 032: Night-Shift Napping: A Safety and Wellness Shift
Night-shift fatigue increases the risk of nurse burnout, patient errors and drowsy driving, yet many hospitals still prohibit on-shift rest. In this episode, Dr. Pamela Linds and PJ Eschbach share how they implemented a research-based nurse napping program to improve patient safety, retention and night-shift wellness. Learn how to overcome policy barriers, engage HR and leadership, and use a pract
Ep. 031: Leading Through Listening With Dr. Karen Cox
Dr. Karen Cox, president of Chamberlain University and former president of the American Academy of Nursing, reflects on a leadership journey shaped by empathy, curiosity and a commitment to nurse well-being. In this episode, she explores the power of listening, shared governance and bold advocacy. Discover how her early experiences continue to guide her leadership style and why amplifying the nurs
Ep. 030: When a Young ICU Nurse Becomes a Patient With Delirium
At 23, Erika Breivogel, an ICU nurse, experienced a sudden illness that made her a patient. In this episode, Erika recounts her harrowing experience with delirium, including vivid hallucinations and fear, and how her story reveals critical gaps in symptom recognition, prevention and care. Learn why early mobility, reorientation and compassionate nursing are key not only to managing patients in the
Ep. 029: The Silent Threat Nurses Can’t Afford to Miss
This gripping episode follows Andrea Schmitt, a critical care nurse who faced sudden heart failure days after delivery. Diagnosed with postpartum cardiomyopathy, she went from caregiver to patient in a heartbeat. Her story reveals how easily this rare condition can be missed and how nurses can save lives by recognizing the signs early. Tune in for lifesaving insights every nurse should bring to th
Ep. 028: The Real Impact of Virtual Nursing on Care Delivery
Virtual nursing is transforming healthcare delivery, but misconceptions remain. Paul Malito, University of Alabama at Birmingham eMedicine, talks about real-world examples of how virtual nursing strengthens rather than replaces bedside care. This episode explores how virtual nursing improves workflow, mentoring, nurse satisfaction, retention and patient outcomes while giving bedside nurses more ti
Ep. 027: Robots, Risks and the Rise of Nurse Innovators in AI
Explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in nursing with two visionary nurse leaders, Dr. Olena Svetlov and Dr. Fiona Winterbottom. From early-warning systems to wearable tech and even robotics, the conversation dives into how AI can reshape clinical workflows, improve patient outcomes and empower nurses. This episode is sponsored by the award-winning quarterly journal AACN
Ep. 026: Courage, Care and Critical Moments in Flight Nursing
Thinking about a career in flight nursing? This episode is your liftoff. Veteran flight nurse Cindy Goodrich joins us to talk about the reality of caring for critically ill patients midair, how flight teams work together under pressure, and what nurses need to know before stepping into this high-intensity role. This episode is sponsored by AACN’s online course Fundamental Skills for Preceptors, wi
Ep. 025: Strengthening the Bedside: A Nurse-Led Tele-ICU Innovation Story
Is a human-AI partnership possible for the future of pediatric critical care? Explore how a groundbreaking pediatric tele-critical care program transformed one of the nation’s busiest cardiovascular ICUs. Guests Menchee Berris and Kellie Swink discuss the challenges behind high-acuity pediatric cardiac care and the constant pressure created by staffing shortages. Listen as they reveal how their te
Ep. 024: High Alert: Cannabis Complications at the Bedside
As legalization increases, patients are using cannabis more than ever and not always telling you. Pharmacist Dr. Meagan Good joins Voices in Nursing to unpack the hidden risks, gray areas and clinical blind spots that come with caring for cannabis users. If you've ever felt unprepared to respond, this conversation will change how you assess, advocate for and protect your patients.This episode is s
Ep. 023: What Happens When Nurses Take the Lead?
When nurse leadership at her health system felt fractured, Dr. Holly Muller, Chief Nursing Officer at Presbyterian Healthcare Services, didn’t start with a plan. She started by listening. Learn how she sparked a culture shift by trusting the voices closest to the bedside. This episode of Voices in Nursing dives into the messy, meaningful work of rebuilding trust, restoring purpose and making share
Ep. 022: When ECMO Weighs Heavy: Nurses Confront Moral Distress
ECMO saves lives, but at what emotional cost? In this episode of Voices in Nursing, Christina Block, an ECMO transport nurse, and Jennifer Popies, an ICU clinical nurse specialist, share findings from their CVICU research on moral distress. They discuss prognostic uncertainty, the burden of treatment, and the emotional toll of high-stakes decisions. Explore themes of identity, teamwork and resilie
Ep. 021: Nurse Fatigue: Sleep, Safety and Smarter Solutions
Nurses face long shifts and sleepless nights, but fatigue creates real risks for clinicians and patients. In this episode of Voices in Nursing, Dr. Susan Weaver and Dr. Terri Wurmser discuss their research on nurse fatigue, drowsy driving, and the impact of poor sleep on care. They also share practical strategies such as power naps, improved scheduling, and organizational support to promote nurse
Ep. 020: The Human Side of AI in Nursing
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping healthcare, but what does that mean for nurses? In this episode, Dr. Carl Goforth, retired Navy nurse and educator, joins AACN’s Dr. Vicki Good and Andrea Schmitt to explore the promise and pitfalls of AI in nursing. From clinical decision support to ethical safeguards, Dr. Goforth shares how nurses can use AI as a supportive tool without losing their huma
Ep. 019: From Silence to Safety: Joseph Grenny on Crucial Conversations
Could silence in healthcare be as dangerous as a clinical mistake? Joseph Grenny, co-founder of Crucial Learning and co-author of “Crucial Conversations,“ joins AACN’s Dr. Vicki Good and Brandee Pak to unpack the updated Silence Kills 2.0 study. Together, they reveal why speaking up matters more than ever, how behavioral agility drives innovation, and practical ways nurses and leaders can build ps
Ep. 018: From Burnout to Belonging: Building Cultures That Care
What if well-being wasn’t a program but a practice embedded in every corner of a health system? Kristi McClure shares how OhioHealth created a long-term, data-informed strategy for clinician well-being — years before the pandemic made it urgent. She discusses how they’ve scaled support across 16 hospitals, leveraged the power of peer connection, and how dog therapy can become a symbol of care cult
Ep. 017: Designing Technology With Nurses in Mind
Technology can be a powerful tool — especially if it truly supports the people using it. Dr. Sarah Rossetti, nurse informaticist and researcher, shares her work designing and studying digital systems in critical care. She discusses what happens when nurses shape technology from the ground up, why documentation fatigue matters, and how human-centered design can improve care delivery and nurse satis
Ep. 016: Seeing the Unseen — Addressing Human Trafficking in Healthcare
Human trafficking often goes undetected — even in clinical settings. Forensic nurse Ashley McAree shares how healthcare professionals can recognize signs of trafficking, debunk common myths and offer trauma-informed care. Learn how her team in Maryland transformed their SAFE program to meet the needs of some of society’s most vulnerable patients and how nurses everywhere can take part in building
Ep. 015: Healthy Work Environments and Saving Vulnerable Populations
What if the key to reducing patient mortality lies in the workplace? Dr. Margo Brooks Carthon shares compelling research on how Healthy Work Environments empower nurses to deliver better outcomes—especially for patients facing social and economic barriers. This episode highlights how nurse-driven care, support, and advocacy can make a critical difference for underserved patients during health cris
Ep. 014: Authentic Leadership: Meeting Our Colleagues Where They Are
Authentic leadership is personal. In this episode, Allison Steuber and Ryan Miller share how they tailor recognition and support to meet each team member where they are — from new parents who are adjusting work hours to nurses preparing for advanced practice. Join hosts Andrea Schmitt and Dr. Vicki Good for a conversation on leading with intention and empathy. When we see the individual, we lead w
Ep. 013: Building Better Teams: Insights From the HWE Collaborative
Across 135 nursing units in 45 hospitals, nurses, leaders and interprofessional teams are driving lasting, culture-based change — guided by AACN’s Healthy Work Environment Standards. Dr. Brenda Pun and Dr. Michelle Balas share the work of the HWE National Collaborative and how better work environments start with nurses — and create ripple effects across care teams.This episode is sponsored by the
Ep. 012: Strength in Practice: Owning Your Nursing Power
What does it mean for nurses to own their power? In this Voices in Nursing episode, Dr. Lisa Johnson shares her journey from ICU direct care to hospital leadership — and why empowerment is more than a concept; it’s a call to action. With personal stories, valuable insights and practical advice, she challenges nurses to lead from every level and shape the future of care. This conversation will chan
Ep. 011: A Blueprint for Change: Reclaiming the True Value of Nursing
What if we measured nursing by its healing impact — not only by harm avoided? Dr. Martha Curley shares a bold call to action to redefine the value of direct care nursing. Learn how a new blueprint aims to measure what matters most: advocacy, vigilance, human connection and the outcomes only nurses can deliver.This episode is brought to you by AACN’s Knowledge Assessment Tool, helping educators ide
Ep. 010: From Bullying to Belonging: Changing Nursing Culture
From microaggressions to outright bullying, incivility in nursing takes many forms. Dr. Shalanda Perkins shares her personal journey, from experiencing workplace hostility to becoming a leader in promoting a culture of respect and civility. Hear her powerful insights and evidence-based strategies for creating a culture of respect in nursing.This episode is brought to you by AACN’s Online Nursing C
Ep. 009: Elevating Nurses’ Voices From the ICU to National Policy
Dr. John Gallagher, DNP a critical care expert and former AACN board member, shares his journey as the only nurse on the NIH COVID-19 treatment panel—and how he worked to ensure nursing expertise influenced patient care at a crucial moment in both his personal life and in our nation’s history.This episode is sponsored by AACN’s Membership, offering members special discounts, clinical resources, an
Ep. 008: The Unseen Role: Are You a Last Responder?
Have you ever considered yourself a last responder? While first responders are widely recognized, those who provide care in life’s final moments sometimes go unnoticed. In this episode, Clinical Nurse Specialist Melinda Mayorga shares the powerful story that led her to define this role and why it matters. Tune in to reflect, reframe and recognize the profound positive impact you may already be mak
Ep. 007: Resetting Life: A Nurse’s Journey From Caregiver to Author
After the sudden and tragic death of her husband, Dr. Sue Hassmiller channeled her grief into a blog that later became her acclaimed book “Resetting: An Unplanned Journey of Love, Loss, and Living Again.” She reflects on her experiences as both a nurse and a grieving spouse, her advocacy for compassionate care, and living through unimaginable challenges.This episode is sponsored by AACN’s Beacon A
Ep. 006: Turning Pain Into Improved Patient Safety
Yolanda G. Smith, a former critical care nurse and CNO, transformed personal tragedy into a powerful catalyst for change. In this inspiring episode, she shares her journey of resilience and how the loss of a beloved friend due to preventable errors motivated her to develop innovative programs that enhance nurse well-being and improve patient safety.This episode is sponsored by AACN’s award-winning
Ep. 005: Voices of the Black Angels: A Legacy of Service
In celebration of Black History Month, we shine a light on the inspiring story of Dr.Virginia Allen and the 'Black Angels,' whose bravery and compassion transformed nursing and patient care during a time of fear and segregation. Their legacy has left an indelible mark on history and continues to inspire generations of nurses.This episode is sponsored by the award-winning quarterly journal AACN Adv
Ep. 004: Mental Health and the Co-Caring Model Revolution at Providence
Dr. Vicki Good and guest co-host Dr. Devin Bowers sit down with Dr. Sylvain Trepanier, chief nursing officer at Providence Health Systems, to explore how the innovative co-caring model is transforming nursing practice, supporting appropriate staffing and fostering joy in the work environment.This episode is sponsored by AACN’s online course, Fundamental Skills for Preceptors, with information avai
Ep. 003: Empowered at the Bedside for Impactful Change
Discover how direct-care nurses Annie Nguyen and Randy Padua teamed up to transform their unit’s infection management protocol. This episode explores their inspiring journey through AACN’s CSI Academy and how they created sustainable practices. Learn how structured guidance, teamwork, and innovative solutions empowered them to improve patient outcomes and drive change.This episode is brought to yo
Ep. 002: Bridging Gaps: Leadership and Healthy Work Environments
Join hosts Vicki Good and Andrea Schmitt as they talk with Kelly Kester, nursing director at Duke University Health System, about fostering healthy work environments and improving staffing in critical care. Kelly shares her leadership journey and how AACN's Healthy Work Environment standards helped her enhance nurse retention and engagement. Discover strategies for onboarding new nurses and empowe
Ep. 001: A Heartfelt Perspective: The Dorman Family's Critical Care Journey
In this premiere episode of "Voices in Nursing," Tim Dorman, managing partner of Dorman Leadership Group, and his daughter Abby Pledger share their experiences as a patient and family navigating critical care after a life-altering heart attack. The conversation unfolds as a story of resilience, the compassionate care of ICU nurses, and how their journey was recognized Through the DAISY Foundation;
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