April 22, 2025

Passion, Purpose, and Scrubs with Kathryn Dickson

43 minutes

In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, we dive into the inspiring story of Kathryn Dickson, BSN, RN, DNP, ENP-C, FNP-C—nurse, entrepreneur, and the visionary CEO behind OliveUs Apparel. Kathryn takes us on her journey from the bedside to the boardroom, sharing how her passion for nursing sparked the creation of a revolutionary scrub company. This isn’t just about scrubs—it’s about reimagining what healthcare professionals wear, with a focus on safety, comfort, and innovation.

From patented features like a stethoscope holder to sustainable fabrics that prioritize health, Kathryn’s designs are changing the game. But this episode isn’t just about the scrubs—it’s about the heart and hustle behind them. Kathryn opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the power of community among nurse innovators, and the importance of supporting small businesses. Whether you’re a nurse, an entrepreneur, or just someone chasing a dream, this conversation is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a whole lot of heart.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the World of Nurse Entrepreneurship
02:47 Kathryn’s Journey: From Bedside to Business
06:05 Game-Changing Scrub Designs and Features
09:04 Why Fabric Safety and Comfort Matter
12:09 Redefining Quality in Nursing Apparel
14:56 Cracking the Scrub Market: Business Insights
23:04 The Push for Sustainable Scrubs
26:17 Building a Brand: The Story Behind OliveUs
29:15 Innovation in Action: The Stethoscope Holder
30:49 Community First: The Philosophy of OliveUs Apparel
32:03 What’s in a Name? The Meaning of OliveUs
34:48 Self-Funding, Growth, and Entrepreneurial Grit
38:17 Balancing Passion and Purpose: Nursing Meets Business
41:29 Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Nurse Entrepreneurs
46:46 Follow Kathryn’s Journey

About Kathryn
Kathryn Dickson, RN, DNP, is a trailblazing healthcare professional and entrepreneur who has seamlessly merged her passion for nursing with innovative design. From a young age, Kathryn sewed and designed her own clothing—a creative outlet that would later influence her approach to reimagining healthcare apparel. Her journey into nursing began at age six, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact. As she grew older, Kathryn's commitment to healthcare only deepened, leading her to volunteer at a local hospital during high school and eventually pursue a career as a bedside nurse and emergency nurse practitioner.

Through her experiences, Kathryn identified a critical need for improvement in traditional scrubs, particularly regarding safety and functionality. Recognizing the risks associated with wearing stethoscopes around the neck, she took the initiative to design her own scrubs, prioritizing the well-being and comfort of healthcare professionals. This endeavor sparked the creation of OliveUs, a brand that has become synonymous with high-quality, innovative healthcare apparel. As the founder and CEO, Kathryn has tested her products with nurses, respiratory therapists, and doctors, garnering valuable feedback and fostering a community that values both style and substance.

Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Kathryn is dedicated to addressing nurse burnout and promoting awareness about the importance of finding passion within the healthcare industry. Her dual role as a bedside nurse and nurse practitioner has provided her with a unique perspective, allowing her to drive innovation that truly meets the needs of healthcare professionals. Through OliveUs, Kathryn continues to empower her peers, advocating for a healthier, more compassionate approach to healthcare.

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About Ann

Ann King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13 years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 4.5 years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing.

Connect with Ann on Instagram @annifer05

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