In this episode of the NICU Today Podcast, we are joined by Nicole Lewis-Keeber, MSW, LCSW—Business Therapist, author, leadership coach, and a thought leader at the intersection of trauma and entrepreneurship. Nicole is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work and extensive experience working as both a therapist and a coach. She trained directly with Brené Brown and is certified in The Daring Way™ and Dare to Lead™ methodologies. Nicole has been featured in major media outlets including NPR and Fast Company for her work in breaking the stigma around mental health and business ownership.

Nicole’s approach is grounded in understanding the impact trauma has on how people show up in their relationships, careers, and personal lives. She is passionate about helping individuals—especially leaders and caregivers—recognize how their past experiences influence the way they navigate stress, responsibility, and emotional resilience.

On today’s episode:

• Nicole shares her professional background and what led her into trauma-focused work.
• Her experience training with Brené Brown and the most powerful lessons from that process.
• Understanding what trauma really is and the different ways it can show up in someone’s life.
• Why many people don’t realize they have experienced trauma and how it can resurface during high-stress situations.
• How the lens of trauma applies to NICU parents and families navigating fear, uncertainty, and medical trauma.
• Breaking the stigma around mental health and encouraging individuals to seek support.
• Nicole’s biggest piece of advice for those processing trauma or carrying emotional burden.
• Where listeners can learn more about Nicole’s work and access her resources.

Nicole’s insight sheds light on the emotional weight NICU families carry—and offers tools to help them move from survival to healing. This episode empowers listeners to recognize their own emotional experiences and understand that healing is not only possible, but deeply deserved.