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Coffee Break

Coffee Break

Breaking the Cycle of Bullying in Healthcare One Cup at a Time.

All Episodes

EP 32: Leading Through Crisis: Essential Competencies for Nurse Leaders

Adaptability and flexibility are crucial competencies for nurse leaders, especially during and after crises. In this episode, Dr. Michelle Conley, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer for Jefferson Health-North Region, discusses critical competencies for nurse leaders, especially during and after crises like the global pandemic, highlighting adaptability, self-awareness, and vulnerability in leadership. She emphasizes creating a supportive environment where team members feel valued and offers strategies for managing stress and workload, including task prioritization and seeking peer support. Tune in and learn how to foster a supportive environment, prioritize tasks, and leverage individual strengths for successful leadership in healthcare. Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: https://healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast-episodes/
May 8, 2024

EP 31: Transforming Healthcare Through Emotional Onboarding

Fostering meaningful coworker relationships from day one cultivates a nourished and peaceful organizational culture, thus promoting a positive work environment. In this episode, Quint Studer explores the critical practice of emotional onboarding, a method he equates to the welcoming and communal support found in recovery meetings for alcoholics and drug addicts. This approach not only helps new healthcare employees, like nurses, feel connected and supported but also addresses the high turnover rates that plague the industry.  So, grab your coffee, and let's break into this transformative discussion that could redefine emotional well-being and retention in healthcare. Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: https://healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast-episodes/
May 1, 2024

Ep 30: Self-Awareness in Leadership

Authentic recognition of diverse traits fosters a team culture where everyone feels valued and understood. In this episode, Dr. Renee Thompson explores the various strategies for skill development among healthcare teams, which include fostering assertive communication, eliminating workplace gossip, and the art of giving and receiving feedback effectively. She highlights the concept of adding a "healthy workforce" as a standing agenda item to instigate continuous cultural growth and learning.  Stay tuned as we uncover the keys to unlocking a better work environment where everyone can thrive.  Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: https://healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast-episodes/
April 24, 2024

EP 29: Building a Safer Workplace: Collaboration and Prevention Strategies

Empowering healthcare workers to set boundaries with patients is essential to preventing workplace violence. In this episode, Tracy Gosselin, Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, discusses workplace violence in healthcare. Tracy delves into strategies for cultivating a healthy workforce, emphasizing the need to identify key stakeholders, understand data, and create a supportive environment for staff. She emphasizes the significance of acknowledging workplace violence and empowering healthcare workers to set boundaries with patients while providing compassionate care.  Tune in and learn how to cultivate a respectful and safe work culture in healthcare with practical methods that actually work! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: https://healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast-episodes/
April 17, 2024

EP 28: Strengthening Workplace Relationships Through HR Collaboration

If you want to cultivate and sustain a healthy work culture, you have to involve your HR partners. In this episode, Dr. Renee Thompson emphasizes the importance of fostering a healthy and respectful work culture by addressing disruptive behaviors and strengthening the relationship with human resources (HR). She advocates for unity between leaders and HR in handling problematic employees, suggesting rapport-building coffee chats, early intervention for disruptive behaviors, clear communication, decisive action, and implementing strategies to stop bullying in healthcare organizations. Tune in and learn how to cultivate a healthier and more respectful work environment by tackling an age-old problem in healthcare: bullying and incivility! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: https://healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast-episodes/
April 10, 2024

EP 27: Compassion in Action: Creating a Caring Work Environment

It's vital to understand rather than dictate emotions, fostering unity amidst adversity. In this episode, Doug Dascenzo, Regional Chief Nursing Officer of Trinity Health, delves into the crucial aspects of fostering a compassionate and collaborative work culture within healthcare organizations. He addresses the compassion crisis exacerbated by burnout and the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of supporting emotions, fostering open communication and empathy, and recognizing diverse personalities within teams. Tune in and learn how to contribute to building a more compassionate and secure healthcare system for all! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: https://healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast-episodes/
April 3, 2024

EP 26: Guide to Nurse-Physician Partnerships for Change

The impact of solid nurse-physician relationships on leadership success and cultural evolution in hospitals is pivotal. In this episode, Dina Dent uncovers the strategies she employed to build robust relationships, including her innovative "donuts with Dina" sessions, mission rounds, and town halls that engage and recognize staff, even as they answer a staggering thousand questions monthly.  Tune in as this episode offers a glimpse into the importance of diversity in thought and the evolving face of healthcare operations. Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast-episodes
March 27, 2024

EP 25: Effective Strategies To Empower Healthcare Leaders

At its core, effective leadership revolves around nurturing and bolstering the growth of individuals within the team. In this episode, Mandy Tilton, Chief Nursing Officer at BAYADA Home Health, discusses the importance of leadership development in addressing workplace issues like bullying and incivility. She highlights the role of the Clinical Advisory Board in fostering interprofessional collaboration and solving challenges in home healthcare and introduces innovative approaches like the Safety Squad and book clubs for leadership development, stressing the importance of continuous learning for healthcare professionals.  Tune in and learn how small, inexpensive actions can lead to significant improvements in leadership and overall organizational performance! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: http://healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast-episodes/
March 20, 2024

EP 24: Nurturing New Nurses: Essential Strategies for Creating a Respectful Work Culture in Healthcare

Creating an environment where continuous feedback thrives, and interprofessional bonds flourish is paramount for nurturing the success and well-being of new nurses. In this episode, host Dr. Renee Thompson dives into the critical topic of protecting newly graduated nurses in the workplace. She showcases evidence-based strategies for protecting and nurturing new nurse talents, emphasizing the importance of addressing disruptive behaviors and fostering a culture of relentless feedback.  Tune in to discover the pivotal importance of prioritizing the well-being of newly graduated nurses and learn how to cultivate a thriving work culture that nurtures their success! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast
March 13, 2024

EP 23: Evidence-Based Solutions for Improved Relationships

Curiosity and input-seeking, not blame, lead to successful collaboration and workplace improvements. In this episode, Phyllis Stark, Chief Nurse Executive and Chief Operating Officer for Kaiser Fresno Medical Center, shares insights on transforming healthcare culture by addressing disruptive behaviors. She explains how establishing common ground and leveraging evidence-based approaches improves patient-centered care and creates successful collaborations. Phyllis stresses the significance of equipping frontline leaders with the skills to manage disruptive behaviors and the need for a deliberate, stepwise change in organizational culture.  Tune in and learn how cultivating a healthier work culture in healthcare is essential for better patient care, and learn the exact strategies to do it! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast
March 6, 2024

EP 22: The Power of Presence

Leaders who prioritize presence and approachability can significantly enhance trust and loyalty within their teams, leading to a transformative impact. Lauren Smith, CNO at Saint Alphonsus Health System, shares her journey of fostering respect and safety amongst her colleagues. She shares how she created the "CNO office hours" to bridge the gap between leadership and staff, ensuring that communication is not just top-down but a shared experience.  So pour yourself a cup of your favorite brew and listen in as we uncover the secrets to a healthier, where the cycle of bullying and incivility is replaced with trust and collaboration. Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast
February 28, 2024

EP 21: Creating a Positive Shift: Insights into Healthier Work Environments

Empowering healthcare leaders with essential skills and tools is crucial for addressing disruptive behavior and fostering a positive work culture. In this episode, Amy Visser-Lynch shares her proactive strategy for addressing disruptive behavior and cultivating a healthier work culture in healthcare. She underscores the importance of empowering leaders with essential skills, fostering external partnerships, implementing leadership retreats, and transitioning from manager-led to team-led accountability. Tune in to learn more about the impact of disruptive behavior on staff morale and patient care! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast
February 21, 2024

EP 20: Insights on Emotional Intelligence and Abrasive Leadership

Transformative coaching for abrasive leaders creates a positive ripple effect, fostering individual and organizational growth. In this episode, Bonnie Artman Fox talks about her Leadership Turnaround Coaching program, where she aims to replace abrasive behaviors in leaders with emotional intelligence skills. She shares success stories, underscores the importance of self-awareness in leaders, and explains the coaching program's process, emphasizing the crucial role of managers in addressing abrasive behavior. Tune into this episode and learn about some strategies to handle abrasive leaders, the role of managers in initiating change, and the potential positive impact on work environments! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast
February 14, 2024

EP 19: The Key to Comprehensive Workplace Violence Prevention

Workplace violence isn't just physical. It includes bullying and incivility and also impacts the safety, environment, and health of everyone involved. In this episode, Mary Beth Kingston shares her experiences managing an emergency department in a large urban hospital, emphasizing the escalating problem of violence in healthcare. She underscores the significant impact of physical violence, bullying, and incivility on healthcare professionals and patients, advocating for comprehensive safety programs, leadership engagement, and collaboration, and urging leaders to prioritize workplace violence prevention and involve employees in creating a healthier work environment. Tune in and learn how addressing workplace violence is crucial for a safer and more inclusive workplace culture! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast
February 7, 2024

EP 18: Culture Cure: A Prescription for Healthcare Unity

Hospitalists lead patient care, foster communication, and drive a safety-focused culture in healthcare. In this episode, Dr. Rishi Garg shares insights into his role, the challenges faced in hospitalist medicine, and strategies for improving communication and culture within the healthcare setting. He outlines strategies for cultural improvement, emphasizing relationship-building, open communication, and addressing behavioral expectations for enhanced teamwork and collaboration.  Tune in to learn about the complexities of healthcare dynamics and the ongoing efforts to improve the working relationships among healthcare professionals! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast
January 31, 2024

EP 17: Beyond Burnout: Transforming Healthcare Culture

Customized well-being support programs are crucial in healthcare, recognizing the diverse roles and challenges within and emphasizing the absence of a one-size-fits-all solution. In this episode, Jennifer Bickel, the Chief Wellness Officer at Moffitt Cancer Center, dives deep into the intricate world of wellness and explores the silent crisis of burnout among healthcare professionals. Jennifer shares her experiences and the challenges that come with balancing work, family life, and self-care, shedding light on the guilt many professionals feel when prioritizing their own well-being.  So, get ready to reflect, learn, and perhaps even change how you approach wellness in your life and work. Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast
January 24, 2024

EP 16: Courage, Leadership, and Learning: All You Need For A Healthy Workforce Environment

Negative workplace attitudes can negatively impact patients; positive ones lead to positive outcomes. In this episode, Renee Thompson introduces Debbie Pierson, Nurse Manager at Kaiser Permanente, sharing her remarkable journey in transforming her unit's culture with the help of the Healthy Workforce Institute. She emphasizes the transformative impact of a healthy work environment on her personal life and discusses key strategies, including breaking the fear barrier, confronting disruptive behavior, and maintaining consistency during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tune in and learn how fostering a healthy workforce culture can lead to success in any situation! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
January 17, 2024

EP 15: Strategies for Retention and Respect in Healthcare

It's not just about the policies; it's about the people. In this episode, Stacey Schaab, Senior Director of Nursing at Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, delves deep into transforming the healthcare environment into one where respect and civility reign supreme. She dives into the importance of leadership, setting clear expectations, and recognizing the potent role of an empowered workforce in breaking the cycle of incivility in healthcare. If you’re looking to elevate your work environment or navigate the challenging terrain of healthcare leadership, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom. Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
January 10, 2024

EP 14: Creating Connections: Nurse Leadership and Workplace Culture

Empowering employees is more than a buzzword, it's a foundation stone for a thriving organization. In this episode, Emily Chase explores the critical importance of empowering employees through shared governance and the profound impact authentic leadership can have on creating a positive work environment. She discusses how she transforms organizational culture, enhancing productivity, patient outcomes, and thriving cultures across diverse care centers, while supporting leaders with tools and practices. Join us and unpack what it truly means to foster a professional and respectful work culture that resonates with the mission, vision, and values of an organization. Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
January 3, 2024

EP 13: Trust, Time, and Transformation: An Approach to Nursing Leadership

Vulnerability is a strength in nursing, which is why uncomfortable conversations pave the way for powerful change. In this episode, Lori Armstrong talks about her leadership journey and the impact of a senior nurse's humility on her philosophy. She highlights the avoidance of uncomfortable conversations, the importance of trust, and introduces her initiatives, the IMPACT Group Coaching Program and the On-demand Nurse Leader Academy, offering accredited online courses for leadership development. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of trust, visibility, and growth in leadership, challenging conventional norms in the healthcare landscape! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
December 27, 2023

EP 12: How A Healthcare Leader Is Stopping Workplace Bullying

Bullying and incivility happen because healthcare leaders allow room for such behaviors. In this episode, Kristin Aviles explains the strategies she used to transform a challenging department into one known for its positive culture, such as creating a culture of safety and empowering staff to address workplace violence. Kristin also introduces the concept of "Chatter Matters," emphasizing the importance of both internal and external dialogue in shaping a positive work environment. Tune in and learn how addressing disruptive behaviors can contribute to creating a healthier and more enjoyable work environment for healthcare professionals! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
December 13, 2023

EP 11: Empowering Healthcare Through Recognition

Recognizing the unsung heroes of healthcare goes beyond mere gestures. In this episode, Sarah McVanel talks about employee recognition within the healthcare sector and the significance of fostering a positive and appreciative work culture to prevent workplace issues. She discusses leaders' challenges in feeling appreciated, emphasizing recognition's impact on employee engagement and advocates for personalized gestures. Tune in and learn about the nuanced dynamics of employee appreciation and its profound implications for employee well-being and organizational performance! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
November 29, 2023

EP 10: The Power of Polarity Intelligence in Healthcare Leadership

The demands on healthcare leaders continue to intensify, and a comprehensive approach to address burnout and promote work-life balance has never been more pressing. In this episode, Michelle Troseth and Tracy Christopherson introduce the concept of polarity intelligence in healthcare leadership, emphasizing the need for balance and well-being. Michelle and Tracy stress the need for a balanced mindset and the recognition of early warning signs, advocating the dynamic balance blueprint for healthcare leaders' well-being. Tune in to learn about how to uphold the importance of supporting leaders in their pursuit of a fulfilling work-life balance! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
November 15, 2023

EP 9: Creating a Culture of Positivity in Healthcare: Three Proven Strategies for Dealing with Conflict

Leaders need to listen more and talk less, especially when dealing with conflicts among their organization’s members. In this episode, Dr. Becky Hartley talks about strategies to deal effectively with conflict inside a healthcare organization. Becky shares her story of how early challenges in nursing prompted her to help create better healthcare cultures. She stresses the importance of asking for feedback and getting behind the other person’s eyeballs to better understand their motives. Moreover, she offers three powerful ways to enhance healthcare staff relationships, and dramatically decrease bullying and conflict among co-workers: self-reflection, mentorship, and finally, helping the team come up with accountability standards. To learn more about the right ways to deal with conflict within your organization, tune in to this episode with Becky Hartley! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
November 1, 2023

EP 8: Cultivating a Respectful Work Culture: Strategies for Success

Are disruptive behaviors and a toxic work culture taking a toll on your organization? In this episode, Renee Thompson outlines strategies for improving organizational culture and reducing disruptive behavior during National Bully Prevention Month. Her "trifecta approach" offers nine strategies to enhance organizational culture, involving clear policies, skill development, and a focus on "Healthy Workforce" to create a healthier and more professional work environment. Tune in and learn from Renee about the critical role of organizational culture and its impact on issues like burnout, turnover, and bad behavior! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
October 18, 2023

EP 7: Conflict Management Strategies for Effective Leadership

A workplace leader has to inevitably deal with conflict, and here are some tips that will be extremely helpful for it. In this episode, Randy Keirn talks about leadership and conflict management with CLEAR Rx, a concise five-step process. He emphasizes the importance of effective conflict resolution in leadership, introducing the CLEAR Rx method for conflict management, and provides practical advice for improving leadership skills in professional settings. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about leadership and conflict management tools with Randy Keirn! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
October 4, 2023

EP 6: The Power of Authentic Leadership in Healthcare Culture

Creating a positive healthcare culture starts with addressing disruptions. In this episode, Barry McElyea talks about addressing disruptive behaviors and promoting a culture of respect and professionalism in healthcare settings. He discusses his evolution from workplace bullying to anti-bullying advocacy, highlighting strategies for addressing disruptive behaviors and fostering a culture of respect. Tune in to learn how empathy and accountability can reshape healthcare dynamics! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
September 20, 2023

EP 5: The Key to Long-Term Employee Retention

In this episode, Cara Silletto shares her insights on employee retention challenges and well-being in the workplace. She highlights understanding individual mindsets, discusses shifting retention landscapes due to social media, and offers practical strategies, including improved new hire experiences and personalized appreciation. Tune in to learn some strategies and insights for addressing the pressing issue of employee retention in the modern work world! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
September 6, 2023

EP 4: Avoiding Common Mistakes in Handling Workplace Disruptions

Here’s how to avoid common mistakes when handling disruptive workforce behaviors in healthcare. In this episode, Renee Thompson breaks down three common leadership mistakes when addressing disruptive behaviors. She discusses ongoing discussions for behavior change, private talks to retain leadership credibility, and consistent standards for all employees, even the skilled ones. Tune in to learn from common leadership mistakes and which proactive approaches you can apply to create a positive work environment! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
August 23, 2023

EP 3: Fluff to Priority: Culture Change and Disruptive Behaviors in Healthcare with Mitch Kusy

Creating a positive work environment can shape organizational culture. In this episode, Mitch Kusy discusses the importance of culture change in addressing disruptive behaviors, emphasizing its impact on individuals, teams, and organizations, especially in healthcare. He stresses the need to involve stakeholders and use evidence to strategically prioritize culture change, sharing three effective strategies: engagement, evidence-based approach, and defining decision-making parameters. Tune in to learn more about addressing disruptive behaviors and implementing culture change initiatives for long-term positive outcomes! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
August 9, 2023

EP 2: Handling Tough Conversations through Compassionate Communication with Diane Salter

Here’s a little secret. Nurses can be very cruel to each other. In this episode, Diane Salter, Bullying and Incivility Content Expert at the Healthy Workforce Institute and Director of Surgical Services at a Pennsylvania Hospital talks about handling difficult conversations with employees, dealing with disruptive behaviors, and creating a healthy work environment, particularly in a healthcare setting. She discusses the importance of addressing difficult issues with effective communication strategies and fostering a workplace culture of kindness and professionalism. Listen to this episode to learn some tips on navigating difficult conversations! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
July 26, 2023

EP 1: Introducing Coffee Break: Breaking the Cycle of Bullying in Healthcare – One Cup at a Time!

Welcome to Coffee Break: Breaking the Cycle of Bullying in Healthcare - One Cup at a Time! In this episode, Renee Thompson shares her journey and passion for tackling the long-standing problem of bullying and incivility in healthcare. She emphasizes the need for a professional work culture, equipping leaders with evidence-based strategies to address workplace bullying and incivility while featuring successful leaders as guest speakers. Tune in and learn how to create healthier work environments by emphasizing the significance of how healthcare professionals treat one another! Click this link to the show notes, transcript, and resources: healthyworkforceinstitute.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
July 26, 2023

About Coffee Break

A podcast for healthcare leaders who have had enough of the bullying; the incivility, the he-said-she-said, and other shenanigans in their departments and want to cultivate a high-performing, respectful, and healthy professional team.

In each episode, we provide practical tools and strategies for addressing workplace bullying and incivility, fostering a culture of respect and civility, and building trust and collaboration among the healthcare team.

When leaders are equipped with the skills and tools that they need to address disruptive behaviors, employees are more engaged, happier, and better serve patients and each other. This results in high-performing teams with increased retention and improved patient outcomes.

Host

Dr. Renee Thompson, DNP, RN, FAAN, CSP

Dr. Renee Thompson, DNP, RN, FAAN, CSP

Renee grew up in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, the oldest of 5 kids. There was never a dull moment in the Rossi home as her parents provided anyone in need a seat at the dinner table and sometimes a place to stay. Renee’s father had a strong work ethic (still does) and worked hard to provide for his family. Her mom kept everyone fed, watered, clothed, and is extremely kind, generous, and loving. Renee acquired her drive to accomplish everything she could in this one precious life and her passion for helping others from her parents.

Adulting didn’t come easy for Renee at first. She married young and had two kids right away, without the means to provide for them. One day she looked around and decided she wanted a better life for her girls and for herself. So, she got her associate degree in nursing at a local community college, then got her bachelors, masters, and finally, in 2015, received her doctoral degree in nursing. Along the way, she divorced her first husband and married the man of her dreams. Together, Ashley and Renee have built a life that they love.

Ten years ago, Renee took a leap of faith, quit a really great job that she loved, and started her own business. The business started basically as Renee – a speaker. Fast-forward to today, and she’s expanded the business beyond just her and now enjoys watching her company develop into an institute that serves numerous clients around the globe.