In this week’s episode, Cara is joined by a nurse comedian, Joscel James RN, CPR LOL HYFR, to explore the healing power of laughter in healthcare. They dive into fascinating research showing that just 15 minutes of comedy can melt away stress and even give your immune system a boost—proving that laughter really is medicine. The conversation highlights how nurse comedians skillfully use self-deprecating humor and “punching up” jokes to create a safe, supportive space for their colleagues, never at the expense of patients. You’ll hear how nurses navigate the delicate balance of humor in clinical settings, sometimes leaving themselves reminders to ensure laughter uplifts rather than hurts. The episode also peels back the curtain on the creative process, revealing how fleeting ideas are captured and shaped into powerful, relatable comedy.

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In this week's episode, Cara is joined by Dr. Shakira Henderson, to unpack the challenges and opportunities facing new nurses as they step into today’s complex healthcare landscape. The conversation dives into why many graduates feel unprepared for clinical realities, despite strong academic backgrounds, and explores the steep learning curve and high turnover rates in their first year. You’ll hear eye-opening insights about how current training often falls short in immersing students in interdisciplinary collaboration, leaving gaps in practical experience across departments. The episode also tackles the heavy documentation burden nurses face and why current tech solutions aren’t quite hitting the mark yet. Cara and Shakira discuss the urgent need for clearer role definitions to support fair nurse reimbursement, and reflect on the impact of losing seasoned mentors during COVID-19. Wrapping up, they highlight innovative dual roles for staff and faculty that could energize nursing education and build stronger connections.

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In this week's episode, Cara is joined by Dr. Katie Huffling, DNP, RN, CNM, FAAN, Executive Director, Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments to discuss the intersection of nursing and environmental health. Katie shares her inspiring journey into the field, influenced by Dr. Barbara Sattler and her work at the University of Maryland. They dive into the environmental challenges faced by lower-income populations, particularly poor air quality and its impact on asthma. Katie also sheds light on the dangers of PFCs, known as "forever chemicals," and their widespread contamination. The conversation takes a practical turn as Katie offers actionable steps for reducing healthcare waste and emphasizes the power of nurses advocating for climate change action. Tune in to discover common-sense tips for minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals and learn how nurses can make a significant impact.

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