In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson chats with Dr. Christine Young, Chief Nursing Officer at Akron Children’s Hospital and President of the Ohio Organization for Nursing Leadership. Christine shares how she’s helping her team build a culture where nurses feel valued, supported, and inspired to stay.

They talk about how mission and purpose fuel retention, the importance of well-being, and why giving nurses a voice in decision-making leads to stronger engagement. Christine also highlights the success of Akron Children’s RN Career Path program and their Rising Nurse Leader Academy – two initiatives transforming nurse development and retention.

If you’re a leader looking for real-world examples of what works to create a healthy work culture, this episode is for you.

About Dr. Christine Young

Christine Young, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, joined Akron Children’s in 2012 and currently serves as Chief Nursing Officer. She has more than 30 years of nursing experience and 25 years in leadership. Christine led the design and implementation of Akron Children’s virtual nursing program and oversees behavioral health, perinatal, surgical, inpatient, and respiratory care services across the region. She’s also President of the Ohio Organization for Nursing Leadership.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

How culture directly impacts nurse retention

Strategies to engage a multi-generational workforce

Why involving staff nurses in decisions is non-negotiable

How to develop and retain nurse leaders

Ways to rebuild connection and teamwork after the pandemic

Links & Resources

Connect with Christine on LinkedIn

Email Christine at [email protected]

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