AWHONN Insights is your go-to source for candid nursing conversations with peers and experts alike. Our hosts and guests offer unique but familiar perspectives because they are perinatal nurses just like you. Join us as we dive into current nursing issues, challenge norms, and engage in real-world dialogue to affect change and drive solutions.
Reading the feed…
What if emotional intelligence is the real secret to better leadership, stronger teams, and greater success? In this episode, Dr. Travis Bradberry breaks down how EQ shapes performance, communication, and workplace culture in healthcare. Learn how managing everyday emotional moments can help you lead more effectively, strengthen teamwork, and create a healthier work environment. Meet our guests: Dr. Travis Bradberry Read More Dr. Travis Bradberry is a world-renowned expert on emotional intelligence and the Chief People Scientist at LEADx. His bestselling books have sold more than 5 million cop
In this episode, we explore the power of advocacy in transforming health care as Rachell Dumas and Dr. Natasha Ramontal walk us through their personal stories and expert insights. They discuss how advocacy influences care at the individual, provider, and systems levels and provide practical strategies to empower nurses and patients to advocate for meaningful change that can result in better health outcomes. Meet our guests: Rachell Marie Dumas, MSN, RN, DNPc Read More Rachell Dumas is the Founder and CEO of HEARD, an AI-powered patient advocacy platform transforming how patients, caregivers, e
Join the co-chairs of the Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality Task Force as they discuss the urgent need to improve neonatal outcomes nationwide. These key leaders from AWHONN and NANN will highlight their data-driven, evidence-based, and equity-centered recommendations as a call-to-action for greater collaboration. Meet our guests: Jill Beck, MSN, APRN, NNP-BC, C-NNIC, C-ELBW Read More Jill Beck is a neonatal nurse practitioner and podcast creator who believes the best neonatal care happens when clinicians, researchers, and families learn together. She serves as Creative Director and host of NAN
Maternal hemorrhage remains one of the leading causes of severe maternal morbidity and mortality while the solutions continue to evolve. In this episode, Randi Boike and Devonee Germain explore emerging trends and innovations shaping hemorrhage care today, including the growing use of tranexamic acid, new technologies like vacuum-induced hemorrhage control devices, the role of antenatal anemia in prevention, and how simulation training can strengthen team preparedness. Listen in to gather practical insights for nurses and leaders seeking to improve outcomes through evidence-based care, prevent
Nurses are the backbone of healthcare, yet many silently battle addiction behind the scenes. In this raw, heartfelt episode, Shari Benson — a nurse in long-term recovery — bravely opens up about her experiences from addiction to advocacy. She explains her powerful decision to speak openly about her recovery, the ripple effects of her vulnerability, and her mission to break the stigma. Tune in now and find the courage to break the silence. You are never alone; help is within reach. Meet our guests: Shari Jill Benson Read More Shari has spent more than 22 years building a meaningful career in nu
Unlock the hidden long-term impacts of preterm birth that most health care providers overlook. Dr. Michelle Kelly breaks down the surprising health challenges preterm infants face decades later — from respiratory decline to hypertension, mental health issues, and more. If you’re a nurse, parent, or health care professional, understanding these connections can transform how you care for and advocate for your tiniest patients. Meet our guests: Michelle M. Kelly, PhD, CRNP, CNE, FAANP, FAAN Read More Dr. Michelle Kelly is Professor and Co-Director of the Mid-Atlantic Center for Children’s Health
Bienvenidos! Join us on AWHONN Insights for our first bilingual episode shining a light on the nursing workforce in Puerto Rico. Drs. Danielle Jones, Angela Lober, and Noemy Diaz-Ramos discuss research after the COVID-19 pandemic that focused on a committed, yet overly stressed nursing workforce in Puerto Rico as well as AWHONN’s new initiative to build representation among the U.S. territories and understand their nursing workforce needs through community-led efforts. Listen to how a collaboration with the University of Puerto Rico unfolded that centers the voices of Puerto Rico nurses and in
Bienvenidos! Join us on AWHONN Insights for our first bilingual episode shining a light on the nursing workforce in Puerto Rico. Drs. Danielle Jones, Angela Lober, and Noemy Diaz-Ramos discuss research after the COVID-19 pandemic that focused on a committed, yet overly stressed nursing workforce in Puerto Rico as well as AWHONN’s new initiative to build representation among the U.S. territories and understand their nursing workforce needs through community-led efforts. Listen to how a collaboration with the University of Puerto Rico unfolded that centers the voices of Puerto Rico nurses and in
Drs. Lori Christ and Angela Lober delve into the complexities of caring for late preterm infants. They highlight what makes these babies unique and how early intervention and proper support from clinicians and parents can dramatically improve their health and development. Use this episode to learn about practical strategies, education points, and resources that can prepare you and your colleagues to care for and educate families with the best evidence-based care. A must listen for postpartum or NICU nurses caring for this population! Meet our guests: Lori Christ, MD Read More Dr. Lori Christ i
In today’s nursing world—AI is no longer optional, but essential. Dr. Linda Burke reveals how nurses can harness AI as a powerful support tool without compromising their humanity or wisdom. This conversation centers on shaping the role of ethical, effective AI in your EMR, eagerly streamlining workflows, and better predicting conditions based on patient data trends. The nurse’s role is irreplaceable and deserves a seat at the table to train AI. Health care practitioners—tune in today! Meet our guests: Linda Burke, MD Read More Dr. Linda Burke is a board-certified OB-GYN with extensive experien
How do trauma-informed care and Respectful Maternity Care converge to strengthen readiness across maternity care settings? Our guest experts discuss where practice gaps persist and how new and revamped tools support more consistent, respectful, and trauma-responsive care throughout the perinatal continuum. Listeners will gain practical perspectives on aligning these complementary frameworks, strengthening clinical readiness, and fostering systems that prioritize dignity, autonomy, and psychological safety for birthing individuals. Nursing Contact Hours: 1.0 nursing contact hours (NCPD activity
Dr. Helen Hurst emphasizes the rising rates of syphilis in pregnant individuals and pinpoints the critical need for open, nonjudgmental conversation and education between clinicians and their patients. Use this episode as a guide to discuss sexual health, address myths, implement talk, test, treat at the point of entry to care, and collaborate with community partners to create campaigns that will improve the awareness and health of those in your surrounding zip codes. Meet our guests: Helen M. Hurst, DNP, RNC-OB, APRN-CNM Read More Dr. Helen Hurst is a distinguished leader in nursing education
Dr. Nicole Rankins, a seasoned OB-GYN, shares her insights on empowering women during childbirth, particularly in hospital settings. Dr. Rankins discusses how evidence-based information can be shared by centering informed decision-making for patients. She emphasizes the critical role of L&D nurses in shaping patient outcomes and highlights the significance of collaboration between nurses and physicians. Dr. Rankins underscores the value of patient education and preparation and offers resources to support expectant families and healthcare providers. Meet our guests: Nicole Calloway Rankins, MD
This collective of guests has all significantly contributed to the success of AWHONN's Emerging Leaders Program. The discussion explores the program's impact on leadership development and personal growth through its immersive education, strategic networking, and advocacy training. Listen and keep watching for the greatness of these nurse leaders. Meet our guests: Miriam W. Yeung Read More Miriam Yeung is a social justice leader who has successfully fought for and improved the lives of young people, women, LGBT people, immigrants, and people of color in the United States. Currently, Miriam is t
Dr. Noor Al-Shibli, a board-certified OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine fellow, shares how remarkable advancements in antiretroviral therapy have drastically reduced HIV transmission rates during pregnancy. Listen to discover the collaborative efforts of health care professionals and community advocates in supporting pregnant individuals living with HIV and learn about the evolving guidelines that empower shared decision-making in infant feeding. This is an inspiring conversation on breaking barriers and fostering hope in maternal health. Meet our guests: Noor Al-Shibli, MD Read More Dr. Noor
Many nurses face barriers in advancing their careers due to limited access to structured professional development, leadership training, and mentorship opportunities. While clinical expertise is well-developed through practice, gaps remain in areas such as leadership skills, strategic decision-making, health care business knowledge, and professional networking. These gaps can limit opportunities for advancement into leadership, management, or specialized roles. Addressing this gap by providing targeted education, mentorship, and career development resources will empower nurses to expand their c
Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is life-threatening, unpredictable, sudden, and complex. Miranda Klassen and Kayleigh Summers are two remarkable survivors and leading voices in AFE advocacy, education, and research. In this episode, they describe their life changing experiences, reflect on how AFE can impact nurses and other health care professionals, and share their mission driven work to heal. Immerse yourself in this episode in order to connect with the tools and resources you need to prepare for an AFE or to support survivors. Meet our guests: Miranda Klassen, BSc Read More Miranda Klassen i
Delve into the groundbreaking Neonatal Advanced Life Support (NALS) program, a collaborative effort between the American Red Cross and AWHONN. Experts Jonathan Epstein and Julie Bacon discuss the critical need for innovative education in neonatal resuscitation as well as how to bridge the gap and provide this evidence-based training in maternity care deserts. Learn how NALS differs from existing programs, what it offers health care professionals, and how you can bring it to your team. Meet our guests: Jonathan Epstein, MEMS, NRP Read More Jonathan Epstein leads the Healthcare Product Managemen
Jessica Irrobali, AWHONN Director of Collaborative Clinical Programs is joined by Drs. Carrie Eaton and Kendra Coles at the 2025 AWHONN Convention. They delve into the critical topic of POST-BIRTH Warning Signs sharing their experiences and research findings from a multi-site study across 17 states. Tune in and discover the challenges and triumphs of implementing the POST-BIRTH Warning Signs education in non-obstetric settings (e.g., EDs and critical access hospitals) and learn how these efforts are building interdisciplinary collaboration and empowering postpartum patients to advocate for the
Laura Scalise, MSN, RN, a nurse manager, discusses the development and impact of programs "HeartSafe Motherhood" and "Healing at Home." These programs were designed to leverage technology to improve patient care and engagement. The dialogue with AWHONN Insights highlights the challenges and successes achieved in implementing these programs, emphasizing the importance of patient feedback and continuous improvement. Meet our guests: Laura Scalise, MSN, RN Read More Laura Scalise is the Nurse Manager of the postpartum unit the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. She’s served in a variety
In anticipation of the first AWHONN Rural Health Summit, Mandy Pugh and Teresa Horak highlight the adaptability and innovation rural health nurses need to solve unique challenges. Tune in to this inspiring conversation on resilience to overcome obstacles, creativity in personalized care, and community relationship building, sprinkled with a couple of myth busters. Meet our guests: Teresa Horak, MS, RN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, FAWHONN Read More Teresa Horak has been an RN for 39 years, with 29 years in nursing leadership. She’s worked in every Maternal Care hospital level (I through IV), during her care
Disparities in the NICU are a critical issue, with many families facing barriers to equitable, high-quality care and support during some of their most vulnerable moments. Jenné Johns from Once Upon a Preemie and Adriauna Davis from the Harmonie Grace Foundation are inspiring leaders who transformed their personal experiences into powerful advocacy and support for families. Listen to learn how your team can enhance patient and family-centered care in the NICU, improve health outcomes, and foster a more inclusive health care environment. Meet our guests: Jenné Johns, MPH Read More Jenné Johns is
To continue our conversation from 2024, research professionals from the University of Alaska Anchorage share their insights on the evolving landscape of polysubstance use across the lifespan and its complex implications for health care. Tune in to learn evidence-based strategies for screening and how to provide patient-centered treatment through innovative methods. Empathy, education, and open dialogue can transform lives in your nursing practice and enhance patient care. Meet our guests: Faith Ozer Green, MPH Read More Faith Ozer Green received her undergraduate degree in medical anthropology
Local Chapters are the heart of AWHONN member engagement. Listen to how three dedicated volunteers transformed into influential AWHONN Section Leaders. They welcomed mentorship and leveraged diverse networking opportunities that are also available for you. Be inspired to elevate your nursing career path and learn new resources that can give you and your statewide colleagues a boost. Meet our guests: Marin Skariah, DNP, MBA, FNP-BC, NEA-BC, IBCLC Read More Dr. Marin Skariah is the Director for Women’s and Children’s Services and Pediatrics, and member of the Board of Directors for the Monetary
Two different paths into nursing brought Mandy Irby and Maggie Runyon to the same place. Listen as they discuss that nurses bring their psychological histories into the birth space and that most adults have experienced trauma at some point in their life. Open yourself to the vulnerability of connection with patients and accept that you’ve been complicit in obstetric violence in order to advocate to nurse leaders to change policies, serve as an active bystander, and make trauma-informed care the standard to improve health outcomes. Meet our guests: Mandy Irby, BSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, LCCE, NSI-L1 R
