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Today, we’re talking about one of my favorite strategies for avoiding burnout and sustaining long-term productivity: the Deload Week. Borrowed from the world of weightlifting, this concept has become a core part of how I structure my work and energy throughout the year.
Whether you’re juggling multiple roles, running a business, or just feeling like you never get a true breather—this episode will help you rethink how (and when) to pause without losing momentum.
As you listen, think about the natural cycles in your work or personal life. When could you plan a “pullback” period that would set you up for a stronger push forward? If you’re feeling exhausted, uncreative, or like you’re constantly in output mode, this episode will help you recalibrate.
💡 Have a question or a workplace challenge you want me to unpack on the pod?
Send me a DM on Instagram or reply to one of my System Sunday emails—I’d love to turn your Q into a full episode.
⁉️ Want me to answer your question or scenario on the podcast?
I just opened a new form where you can anonymously submit:
I'll be selecting a few to feature in upcoming episodes.
Submit your Q here!
Today’s episode is a little different—I’m recording straight from my bed, under the covers, because inspiration struck and I had to get this out of my brain.
I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at preparing for and delivering my first big keynote—to an audience of 2,000 at a national nurse practitioner conference. From pre-speech jitters to the moment I walked off stage, I’m unpacking what worked, what surprised me, and the mental strategies I used to keep my nerves in check.
If you’ve ever had to speak in front of a group, pitch an idea, or step into a high-pressure leadership role, this episode is for you.
If you’ve got a presentation, pitch, or public speaking moment coming up, listen to this episode with that in mind. Think about how you can apply these strategies to show up with more confidence and own the room.
⁉️ Want me to answer your question or scenario on the podcast?
I just opened a new form where you can anonymously submit:
I'll be selecting a few to feature in upcoming episodes.
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Today’s episode is a special sneak peek from my private podcast series: The Changemaker Case Files. This private series takes you behind the scenes into real coaching conversations with nurse changemakers — nurses just like you — who are navigating career pivots, leadership challenges, and everything in between.
In this episode, I’m sharing the 8-step process I personally use to navigate roadblocks in my own change work — including the very real tech disaster that almost derailed this entire podcast project. Whether you’re leading a project, navigating a career transition, or just trying to stay afloat in a constantly shifting healthcare system, these steps will help you stay grounded and move forward with confidence.
If you love this episode, you’ll love the full Changemaker Case Files series — and you can access it for free by subscribing at the link in the show notes.
Listen with a recent or current challenge in mind, and think about how you can apply the 8-step process to your own situation. Even if you’re not leading a big project right now, this framework will serve you in any season of your career — from day-to-day work frustrations to major career pivots.
The healthcare landscape is evolving at breakneck speed—but the career advice nurses are still being given is stuck in the past. In this episode, we’re getting brutally honest about why the “stable job, climb the ladder, collect degrees” mindset is no longer enough—and how it’s actively hurting your ability to build a career that lasts.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything “right” but still feel stuck, burned out, or unsure what’s next, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do instead.
Most importantly, you’ll learn why becoming a systems thinker and building a changemaker skill set is the ultimate form of career insurance in today’s healthcare world.
As you listen, take note of the career advice you’ve been following—where does it come from? Is it aligned with the realities of healthcare today, or are you still clinging to outdated ideas that no longer serve you? Reflect on what being a changemaker could look like for you, no matter where you work today.
✔ Stop chasing stability and start building adaptability—become someone who can thrive in any setting.
✔ Audit your career mindset—are you waiting for a seat at the table, or learning how to build your own?
✔ Start thinking like a systems thinker—practice seeing the big picture, not just your daily tasks.
✔ Explore Changemaker Essentials—Claire’s 12-week program to help you build the strategic skills, influence, and confidence to create a career that works for YOU, not just the system.
🚨 Changemaker Essentials enrollment is OPEN!
This 12-week program is designed for nurses who are ready to:
Enrollment is only open March 3-6, 2025, so head to the link in the below to save your spot.
🔗 Visit here to enroll in Change Maker Essentials before doors close on March 6th.
📩 DM Claire on Instagram @nursing.the.system with any questions—or just to share your biggest takeaway from today’s episode.
📤 Know a nurse who feels stuck in their career? Send them this episode!
⁉️ Want me to answer your question or scenario on the podcast?
I just opened a new form where you can anonymously submit:
I'll be selecting a few to feature in upcoming episodes.
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Stepping into a leadership role—whether you’re new to an organization, promoted within your unit, or stepping up as a charge nurse—can feel like drinking from a firehose. You’re excited, a little overwhelmed, and wondering, Where do I even start?
The truth? New leaders often feel like they’re failing before they’ve even begun. But leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about learning how to ask the right questions. In this episode, we’re breaking down the mindset shifts, first steps, and success tools you need to transition into leadership with confidence.
Reflect on where you’re at in your leadership journey—are you feeling pressure to over-perform, or are you focusing on learning first? Take notes on the success tools shared in this episode and pick one or two to start implementing this week.
✔ Shift Your Mindset: Give yourself permission to be a learner first, not a fixer.
✔ Set Up 1:1 Conversations with key team members to understand what’s working and where support is needed.
✔ Start Your Orientation Manual: Document important systems, processes, and stakeholder insights.
✔ Use the Map Your Impact Mini-Course to identify key players and how to strategically build relationships.
✔ Find an Early Win: Look for a small, meaningful improvement to build credibility with your team.
📌 Navigating a new leadership role? My Map Your Impact Mini-Course will help you cut through the noise, identify your strategic position, and make an impact—without feeling overwhelmed. Find it in the show notes!
📌 Want a clear strategy for leading with confidence? Join the waitlist for Changemaker Essentials—my leadership coaching program designed to help you step into your role with clarity and purpose.
⁉️ Want me to answer your question or scenario on the podcast?
I just opened a new form where you can anonymously submit:
I'll be selecting a few to feature in upcoming episodes.
Submit your Q here!
📩 DM me on Instagram @nursing.the.system to share your biggest leadership challenge—I’d love to hear from you!
Join my System Sunday email list for your weekly dose of strategy and sanity for nurses leading change in healthcare.
🎧 If this episode resonated with you, send it to a fellow nurse leader or tag me on Instagram with your takeaways.
If you’re thinking about grad school—or you’re already in the thick of it—there’s a lot you probably wish someone had told you. Many nurses see grad school as the natural next step for career growth, but without a clear “why,” they often end up burned out, frustrated, or questioning if it was worth it.
In this episode, I’m breaking down the six biggest mistakes nurses make when choosing, applying to, and navigating grad school—so you can make the most of your experience.
Take a moment to reflect on why you’re considering grad school. Are you running toward something or just running away? Listen with a critical and open mind—this episode will help you get clear on whether grad school is the right move for you right now.
✔ Get clear on your "why" before applying—ask yourself what long-term impact you want to have.
✔ Assess whether you need grad school or just a better structure for career growth.
✔ Do the math—look at the true financial, time, and energy cost before enrolling.
✔ Research schools intentionally—find a program that aligns with your career goals, not just the most prestigious name.
✔ Seek mentorship proactively—connect with faculty, peers, or professional groups to support your journey.
📌 Thinking about grad school? My Personal Statement Writing Guide is your roadmap to crafting an authentic, standout application.
📌 If you’re feeling uncertain about your next career move, Changemaker Essentials is designed to help you build clarity and confidence in your professional path.⁉️ Want me to answer your question or scenario on the podcast?
I just opened a new form where you can anonymously submit:
I'll be selecting a few to feature in upcoming episodes.
Submit your Q here!
📲 Call to Action:📩 DM me on Instagram @nursing.the.system to share your thoughts on this episode or ask any questions!
Join my System Sunday email list for your weekly dose of strategy and sanity for nurses leading change in healthcare.
🎧 If you found this episode helpful, share it with a fellow nurse who’s considering grad school!
🎙 Episode Overview:
In this episode I discuss how I am stepping into a leadership role where I was hired for my leadership skills—not my subject matter expertise. In this episode, I’m sharing how I prepared for my new role and the seven things I did six weeks before my first day to set myself up for success. If you’re navigating a leadership transition, this episode will give you tangible strategies to help you feel more confident, clear, and prepared.
🔑 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
🧠 Key Ideas to Take With You:
🎧 How to Get the Most Out of This Episode:
If you’re stepping into leadership, about to start a new job, or feeling overwhelmed by a transition, use this episode as a checklist. Pick one or two strategies that resonate and implement them now—you’ll thank yourself later.
🛠️ Practical Actions You Can Take:
📣 Special Announcements:
🚨 The Map Your Impact Mini-Course is here! This course helps you map out your role, focus your energy, and start driving meaningful change from day one—without feeling overwhelmed.
As a podcast listener, you can use the code MYI10OFF for $10 off your enrollment. Find the link in the show notes!
⁉️ Want me to answer your question or scenario on the podcast?
I just opened a new form where you can anonymously submit:
I'll be selecting a few to feature in upcoming episodes.
Submit your Q here!
👉 Resources Mentioned:
🎙 Episode Overview:
Silos in healthcare are everywhere, from departments that don’t communicate to shifts operating in isolation.
In this episode, I’m diving into why breaking down these barriers is critical for collaboration, patient care, and building a healthier workplace culture.
I’ll walk you through practical steps to start dissolving silos at your level—whether that’s with your coworkers, managers, or other departments—so we can create an interconnected web of trust and teamwork.
🔑 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
🧠 Key Ideas to Take With You:
🎧 How to Get the Most Out of This Episode:
Come ready to reflect on how you interact with others at work. Pay attention to the practical examples I share and think about how you can apply them to build stronger connections in your organization.
🛠️ Practical Actions You Can Take:
📣 Special Announcements:
🚨 I’m so excited to announce the launch of the Map Your Impact Mini-Course! In this course, I’ll guide you through creating a personalized impact map to help you identify your role, focus your energy, and start driving meaningful change without feeling overwhelmed.
As a podcast listener, you can use the code MYI10OFF for $10 off your enrollment.
📲 Call to Action:
⁉️ Want me to answer your question or scenario on the podcast?
I just opened a new form where you can anonymously submit:
I'll be selecting a few to feature in upcoming episodes.
Submit your Q here!
👉 Resources Mentioned:
🎙 Episode Overview:
When you're in a meeting discussing a complex problem, have you ever wondered how everyone can be looking at the same issue but seeing it completely differently?
In this episode, we dive into systems mapping—a powerful visual tool that helps get your entire team on the same page. You'll learn how to use this approach to break down complex problems, create shared understanding, and move toward meaningful solutions together.
🔑 In This Episode, You'll Learn:
🧠 Key Ideas to Take With You:
🎧 How to Get the Most Out of This Episode
Take notes on the 4-step process for facilitating a systems mapping session. Think about a current challenge in your workplace that could benefit from getting everyone's perspective visually mapped out.
🛠️ Practical Actions You Can Take:
📣 Special Announcements:
Stay tuned for a special surprise in the next episode! Make sure you've collected all the secret code letters from the past few episodes. Collect this episode's secret code letters: "O F F"
👉 Call to Action:
⁉️ Want me to answer your question or scenario on the podcast?
I just opened a new form where you can anonymously submit:
I'll be selecting a few to feature in upcoming episodes.
Submit your Q here!
📲 Links & Resources:
In this deeply personal episode, I share how an unexpected pull toward living in the Netherlands challenged my carefully planned life path—and what that taught me about navigating vision shifts. Whether you're feeling a tug toward something new or wrestling with seemingly conflicting goals, this episode offers a framework for aligning your shifting vision with your life and career.
Take time to reflect on your own experiences with shifting visions or conflicting goals as you listen. Consider grabbing a journal to work through the reflection prompts shared in the episode, especially if you're currently feeling a "tug" toward something new in your life or career.
⁉️ Want me to answer your question or scenario on the podcast?
I just opened a new form where you can anonymously submit:
I'll be selecting a few to feature in upcoming episodes.
Submit your Q here!
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