Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare

In this episode of Compassion and Courage, Marcus Engel speaks with Rachel Phelps, DNP, about her journey in nursing, the importance of compassionate communication, and the role of mentorship in healthcare. They discuss the integration of technology in nursing education, personal stories that shape their perspectives, and the significance of giving back to the community. Rachel shares her experiences as a nursing educator and the impact of her adopted son on her life, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in patient care.

Key Moments

• 00:00 – Introductions
• 01:20 – Getting to know Rachel Phelps.
• 06:00 – Rachels path through healthcare and witnessing compassion.
• 10:31 – Reading lists and behind the nursing.
• 15:40 – Rachel would like to remind the students that they can make a lasting impression.
• 22:40 – “When life kicks you, let it kick you forward.”
• 27:08 – Conclusion and Thank Yous

Resources for you: 

• More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion: https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/
• Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/
• Learn more about Marcus’ Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/
• Learn more about Nurses Christian Fellowship: https://ncf-jcn.org/
• Learn more Samaritan’s Purse: https://samaritanspurse.org/
• Subscribe to our podcast through Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcast
• Subscribe to our podcast through YouTube: https://bit.ly/Youtube-MarcusEngelPodcast

More about Rachel Phelps:

Rachel E. Phelps, DNP, MSN, RN, CNE®cl is an Assistant Professor and Simulation Director at High Point University’s School of Nursing. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing Administration and an Academic Nurse Educator concentration from Samford University, she is a dedicated educator and researcher specializing in cardiology, simulation, and interprofessional education. Dr. Phelps is a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator and a Certified Academic Clinical Nurse Educator. Her professional experience spans intensive care, cardiac care, pediatrics, medical-surgical nursing, and nurse management. She is actively involved in professional organizations, including Sigma Theta Tau International and the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, and contributes to nursing scholarship through publications and conference presentations. Passionate about faith-based service, she engages in medical missions and volunteer work through Nurses Christian Fellowship and Samaritan's Purse.

Date: 3/10/2025 

Name of show: Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare 

Episode number and title: Episode 165 – Meet Them Where They Are

164 – Finding an Abundant Mindset 

In this episode of Compassion and Courage, Marcus and Marvelyne discuss the concept of scarcity mindset and how to overcome it. They explore the importance of shifting to an abundant mindset, engaging in appreciative conversations, reducing social media consumption, the joy of giving, and learning from losses. The conversation emphasizes personal growth, self-awareness, and the power of connection in overcoming fear and limitations.

Resources for you:

• More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion: https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/
• Learn more about Marcus’ Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/
• Learn more about I’m Here on Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Im-Here-Audiobook/B0D1W3JJBP
• Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/
• Connect with The Hotness on Facebook: https://bit.ly/FB-Marvelyne
• Subscribe to the podcast on Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcast
• Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify: https://bit.ly/Spotify-MarcusEngelPodcast

Date: 3/24/2024

Name of show: Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare 

Episode number and title: 164 – Finding an Abundant Mindset    

Keywords

scarcity mindset, abundance, appreciative conversations, social media, giving, personal growth, overcoming fear, mindset shift, self-awareness, learning from failure

In this episode of Compassion and Courage, Marcus speaks with Ryan Sheridan, a physician assistant specializing in cardiothoracic surgery. They discuss Ryan's journey into the medical field, the importance of compassionate communication in healthcare, and the flexibility of a PA's role. Ryan shares insights on how to practice compassion with patients, especially in post-operative care, and the significance of honesty when communicating both good and bad outcomes. Come listen to Ryan’s experience with leadership skills, the importance of being present with patients, and personal stories that highlight the power of compassion in healthcare and just trying.

Key Moments

• 00:00 – Introductions
• 00:45 – Ryan's Journey to Becoming a PA
• 05:05 – Practicing Compassion in Post-Operative Care
• 08:00 – Communicating Good and Bad Outcomes
• 14:30 – The Impact of Compassion on Patient Care
• 20:50 – Lessons in Leadership from Family
• 23:50 – A Personal Story of Compassion
• 29:40 – Getting to Know Ryan. "Enjoy It."
• 34:15 – Conclusion and Thank Yous

Resources for you: 

• More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion: https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/
• Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/
• Learn more about Marcus’ Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/
• Subscribe to our podcast through Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcast
• Subscribe to our podcast through YouTube: https://bit.ly/Youtube-MarcusEngelPodcast

More about Ryan:

Ryan Sheridan, Physician Assistant practicing Thoracic Surgery in New York.

Date: 3/10/2025 

Name of show: Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare 

Episode number and title: Episode 163 – The Heart of Compassionate Care – Ryan Sheridan, Thoracic Surgery PA

162 – Farewells and New Beginnings 

On this episode of Compassion & Courage, Marcus and The Hotness share the emotional announcement about the Engel pack. At the beginning of January, Marcus and The Hotness began the journey of transitioning from James to his newest seeing-eye dog, Winter! They discuss the challenges and joys of this change, including the training process, bonding with Winter, and Winter’s first public appearance. This episode highlights the importance of compassionate communication and resilience in navigating life changes, especially in the context of service animals and growing families.

Resources for you:

• More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion:https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/
• Learn more about Marcus’ Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/
• Learn more about I’m Here on Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Im-Here-Audiobook/B0D1W3JJBP
• Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/
• Connect with The Hotness on Facebook: https://bit.ly/FB-Marvelyne
• Subscribe to the podcast on Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcast
• Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify: https://bit.ly/Spotify-MarcusEngelPodcast

Date: 2/24/2024

Name of show: Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare 

Episode number and title: 162 – Farewells and New Beginnings

keywords

service dog, guide dog, compassionate communication, emotional transition, pet care, training, bonding, life changes, resilience, healthcare 

In today’s episode of Compassion & Courage, Marcus Engel speaks with Angie Osborn, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, discussing her journey in mental health, the importance of compassionate communication, and the need for integrated care. They explore the impact of mentorship, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the significance of active listening in supporting others. Angie shares her insights on managing emotional triggers and emphasizes the importance of kindness and understanding in healthcare and personal relationships. 

Key Moments

• 00:00 – Introductions
• 00:45 – Angie's Journey in Mental Health
• 03:05 – Mentorship and Leadership in Healthcare
• 05:10 – The Importance of Compassion and Grace
• 09:12 – Witnessing Compassion
• 15:45 – Understanding Mental Health Stigmas
• 18:30 – Active Listening as a Tool for Support
• 23:00 – Managing Triggers and Emotional Responses
• 32:05 – “We are all, really, the same and we need be kinder to each other” 

Resources for you: 

• More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion: https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/
  Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/
  Connect with Angie on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/angie-o-b692a223a
  Learn more about Unwind Your Mind Psychiatry Clinic: UYM-Clinic.com
  Learn more about the Mom & Mitchell Foundation: https://momandmitchell.org/
  Learn more about Marcus’ Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/
  Subscribe to our podcast through Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcast
  Subscribe to our podcast through YouTube: https://bit.ly/Youtube-MarcusEngelPodcast

 More about Angie:

Angie Osborn, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is the founder of Unwind Your Mind Psychiatry & Wellness in Yukon, where she delivers compassionate, inclusive, and nonjudgmental mental health care to individuals ages 5 to 99, with a special focus on children and adolescents. With nearly 20 years of nursing experience, Angie's journey began at 17 when she enrolled in an LPN program, graduating in 2006. This marked the start of her dedicated career in nursing and mental health.

Determined to advance her education, Angie earned an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in 2010. Despite facing various challenges, she persevered with resilience and determination—a trait inherited from her mother. Initially focusing on critical care and cardiac issues, she soon recognized a significant lack of support for the mental health community, particularly in Oklahoma, which inspired her to address this gap.

Angie values the importance of having healthcare providers who reflect and understand the diverse communities they serve. In 2015, she completed her bachelor's degree and discovered a passion for psychiatry. Driven by the critical need for mental health resources in her community, she earned her master's degree in psychiatry from Maryville University in 2022.

Her psychiatry experience began in 2023 at an urgent care and primary care clinic in Yukon, Oklahoma, where she honed her skills in comprehensive patient care and developed a deeper understanding of diverse health needs. Angie launched her clinic in October 2025, offering medication management and psychotherapy services. Her dedication to fostering a supportive environment for mental wellness continues to inspire her work.

2/10/2025 

Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare 

Ep 161 – Navigating Mental Health – Angie Osborn

Marcus Tells the Story of Jennifer and “I’m Here.” He shares the three ways that are best able to help cultivate more compassion and be more present. Marcus gives two definitions for compassion and challenges us to try practicing non-judgement, especially with ourselves. If you’ve ever been touched by the story of Marcus and Jennifer in the emergency room, this episode is a must listen.      

Key Topics:

• 00:19 - Welcome and background. Marcus talks about his story and  what has brought him to this point, this podcast. 
• 04:43 - All I remember from that night... was Jennifer. Marc talks about his first night after the accident and the hand that got him through one of the roughest moments in his life. Simple human presence is the cornerstone of caregiving.
• 07:35 - 20 years go by and Marcus finally meets Jennifer. Even if Jennifer didn’t save Marcus’ life, she saved his sanity. 
• 11:05 - Teaching therapeutic presence and compassion. How to not judge yourself and how to have compassion for yourself. Practice self care, and cultivate compassion. 
• 14:05 - Three ways to generate more compassion in your own life. 
• 18:13 - Thank you and conclusion!

Resources for you:

• Subscribe to the show on Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcast
• Connect with Marcus on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarcusEngelSpeaker/
• Marcus Engel website: www.MarcusEngel.com

Join us weekly and please feel free to share this podcast with any healthcare professionals you know who may need a shot of inspiration! 

In today’s episode of Compassion & Courage, Marcus Engel speaks with Dr. Rachel Spalding, a nurse executive and consultant, about her journey in nursing, the importance of compassionate care, and the role of advocacy in healthcare. Rachel shares her experiences transitioning from bedside nursing to leadership, the impact of mentorship, and the significance of professional organizations in empowering nurses.  We discuss the evolving role of virtual nursing and its impact on patient care, emphasizing the importance of communication and collaboration between virtual and bedside nurses. 

Key Moments

• 00:00 - Introductions
• 01:05 - Rachel's Journey into Nursing
• 05:24 - Transitioning from Bedside to Leadership
• 08:55 - The Role of Mentorship in Healthcare
• 11:25 - Advocacy and Professional Development in Nursing
• 18:00 - Understanding Virtual Nursing
• 29:17 - Witnessing Compassion
• 34:50 - Leadership Development in Nursing
• 38:00 - Messages of Kindness
• 41:30 - About Rachel’s Work
• 45:05 - Conclusion and Thank Yous

Resources for you: 

• More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion: https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/
• Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/
• Connect with Sr. Spalding on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-spalding-spalding-healthcare-solutions
• Learn more about Spalding Healthcare Solutions: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spalding-healthcare-solutions-llc
• Learn more about Marcus’ Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/
• Subscribe to our podcast through YouTube: https://bit.ly/Youtube-MarcusEngelPodcast

About Rachel Spalding, DNP, RN, NEA-BC:

Dr. Rachel Spalding has served as a Chief Nursing Officer and nurse executive since 2014. She holds a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Capella University, a Master's of Science in Nursing from the University of Southern Indiana, and a Bachelor's degree from Morehead State University. Dr. Spalding is an advanced board-certified nurse executive and serves as a board member, and license plate chair for the Indiana Organization for Nursing Leadership and most recently served as a Director on the Indiana State Nurses Association Board. She sits on the Advocacy Committee for both ISNA and for the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, and the Nurse Leaders in Action. Through these roles is where she plays a vital role in shaping healthcare policy for nurses at state and federal levels. She also earned a practice exemplar from the Magnet Commission for her innovative approach to virtual nursing and her most recent work, “Virtually integrated nursing care: A case study in diffusion,” will be featured in the Management in Healthcare Journal’s most recent publication. 

Rachel is deeply committed to legislative advocacy, recognizing the critical role that nurses play in shaping policy that affect nursing practice, workforce, and healthcare outcomes. 

Dr. Spalding is an independent healthcare consultant through her company Spalding Health Care Solutions, that specializes in virtual nursing, professional practice, patient experience, employee engagement, and workforce development. 

Date: 1/13/2025 
Name of show: Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare 
Episode number and title: Episode 160 – The Power of Advocacy in Healthcare – Rachel Spalding, DNP, RN, NEA-BC

In today’s episode of Compassion & Courage, Marcus Engel speaks with Nikki Helms DNP, MBA, RN, CCRN-K, a dedicated nurse and patient experience leader. They discuss Nikki's journey into nursing, the importance of compassionate care, and the impact of personal experiences on her career. The conversation delves into leadership in healthcare, the significance of vulnerability and trust for leaders. Nikki emphasizes the need for kindness and human connection in healthcare, sharing her insights on building relationships and fostering a supportive environment for both patients and staff. Hope you enjoy this wonderful look at leadership and building a culture of care!

Key Moments

• 00:00 – Introductions
• 00:58 – Nikki Helms’ Professional Experience
• 02:35 – The Call to Nursing for Nikki
• 08:38 – Get to Know You Questions
• 10:50 – Leadership Lessons from Nursing
• 15:50 – Biggest Challenge for a Team 
• 21:40 – Miraculous Moments in Healthcare
• 26:45 – A Message of Kindness to the World, “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”
• 27:30  – Closing Remarks and Thank Yous

Resources for you: 

• More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion: https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/
• Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/
• Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/nikki-helms-dnp-mba-rn-ccrn-k-04900716a
• Learn more about Marcus’ Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/
• Subscribe to our podcast through Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcast
• Subscribe to our podcast through YouTube: https://bit.ly/Youtube-MarcusEngelPodcast

Learn More About Nikki Helms:

Nikki Helms is a committed nurse and healthcare leader with over a decade of experience spanning leadership roles, critical care, and patient experience. Her dedication to making healthcare more compassionate stems from numerous personal experiences, fueling her drive to improve communication, reduce medical errors, and cultivate empathy in every patient encounter. Nikki holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Health Systems Leadership and an MBA in Healthcare Administration. She believes that fostering human connection not only improves patient outcomes but also enhances care quality and boosts employee morale.

Date: 12/16/2024 
Name of show: Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare 
Episode number and title: Episode 159 – The Power of Vulnerability in Nursing

On this episode of Compassion & Courage, Marcus and The Hotness delve into the concept of self-sabotage, exploring its various forms and how it impacts mental health, relationships, and personal growth. They discuss behaviors such as perfectionism, avoidance, rebellion, imposter syndrome, overthinking, and martyrdom, providing insights and strategies for recognizing and overcoming these self-destructive patterns. Come tune in to this two-part episode if you want to get out of you own way!

Resources for you: 

• More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion: https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/
• Learn more about Marcus’ Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/ 
• Learn more about I’m Here on Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Im-Here-Audiobook/B0D1W3JJBP 
• Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/ 
• Connect with The Hotness on Facebook: https://bit.ly/FB-Marvelyne 
• Subscribe to the podcast on Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcast 
• Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify: https://bit.ly/Spotify-MarcusEngelPodcast 

Date: 12/2/2024
Name of show: Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare 
Episode number and title: 158 – The Self Saboteur – Part 2

In today’s episode of Compassion & Courage, Marcus Engel and Laurie Smith talk about Laurie’s journey in healthcare, her inspirations, and the importance of leadership and belonging in teams. They discuss Laurie's experiences as a nurse, her transition into leadership roles, and the impact of coaching on team dynamics. The conversation also touches on the significance of the Magnet designation in healthcare and the value of emotional intelligence in fostering a culture of belonging. Laurie shares her insights on feedback, personal growth, and the importance of diversity in teams, concluding with her thoughts on leadership and connection. Come listen and learn how to foster teamwork and future leaders!

Key Moments

• 00:00 – Introductions
• 01:30 – Laurie's Journey in Healthcare
• 04:30 – A Time Laurie Witnessed Compassion
• 07:55 – Leadership Development and Experiences
• 11:14 – The Impact of Coaching and Team Dynamics
• 13:55 – Understanding Magnet Designation
• 16:50 – Personal Insights and Recommendations
• 23:34 – “In our differences we find strengths. In curiosity we find connection.”
• 25:35 - Closing Remarks and Thank Yous

Resources for you: 

• More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion: https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/
• Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/
• Connect with Laurie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-lee-smith/
• Learn more about Laurie Lee Leadership: www.laurieleeleadership.com
• Learn more about Marcus’ Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/
• Subscribe to our podcast through Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcast
• Subscribe to our podcast through YouTube: https://bit.ly/Youtube-MarcusEngelPodcast

Learn More About Laurie Smith:

Laurie is the CEO of Laurie Lee Leadership and a seasoned executive coach with over three decades of healthcare expertise to include system level C-Suite leadership. She is certified by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Laurie's international coaching and leadership engagements have spanned continents, including North America, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, with a focus on enhancing the influence of healthcare leadership on a global scale. Her coaching philosophy is anchored in the cultivation of high-trust leaders who support teams capable of achieving peak interdependence. Laurie holds a Master of Science in Nursing Administration from the University of Mary and a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Alaska, Anchorage. She also holds a Green Belt certification in LEAN Six Sigma, a certificate in Brain-Based Coaching, and Board Certification through the ANCC in advanced Nursing Administration. Laurie received her formal training in executive coaching at the Hudson Institute of Coaching and is currently working toward a PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. 

Date: 11/18/2024 
Name of show: Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare 
Episode number and title: Episode 157 – Leadership Lessons from a Lifelong Nurse