When new nurses enter the profession, they’re told to “toughen up” — but what they really need is support, balance, and space to be human.

In this week’s episode of The Happy Nurse Podcast, I’m joined by nurse educator and coach Deanne Geddes, who shares her powerful insights on helping graduate nurses transition into practice with confidence and care.

We talk about burnout, identity, boundaries, and why thriving as a nurse isn't about being the toughest — it's about being the most human.

Let this conversation remind you that self-care is not selfish — it’s essential to sustain your career and your compassion.

• The critical challenges new graduate nurses face during their transition into professional practice.
• Deanne’s personal nursing journey and how her experiences shaped her coaching focus.
• The harsh realities of burnout affecting up to 25% of new nurses within their first year.
• The conflict between nursing’s caring identity and the tough, “just push through” culture.
• How different nursing specialties and workplace cultures impact nurse wellbeing and career satisfaction.
• The importance of holistic support—beyond clinical skills—during the graduate year.
• Why identity is a major factor in nurse burnout and career fulfillment.
• The role of workplace support programs and the shortcomings in current hospital systems.
• Practical advice for graduate nurses on setting boundaries, seeking mentorship, and valuing their own wellbeing.
• The need for nurse-specific coaching and mentoring to support career longevity.
• Reflections on how self-care, debriefing, peer support, and psychological safety contribute to thriving in nursing.
• Calling for cultural shifts in nursing to value humanness alongside clinical competence.

• Being the “most human nurse” is more important than the “toughest nurse.”
• Nurse identity should not be confined to a single role or ward—flexibility is key.
• Self-care, boundaries, and holistic support are crucial to prevent burnout.
• Graduate nurses deserve tailored coaching and a culturally supportive environment.
• Debriefing and peer support are essential components of emotional processing and resilience.
• Nurses can have rewarding, sustained careers aligned with their values and lifestyle needs.

Deanne Geddes, a nurse educator and coach with over 11 years of experience in clinical and non-clinical nursing roles. Deanne shares her passion for supporting new nurses transitioning into practice with confidence, balance, and care. Drawing from her own journey through burnout and recovery, she now empowers nurses to build sustainable careers using mindset, self-care, and holistic strategies.

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Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and experiences shared by guests on this podcast are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host. This podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are seeking support for your mental health or wellbeing, we strongly encourage you to reach out to a qualified mental health professional. If you are in crisis, please contact your local emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area immediately.