24. Build nurses' resilience and well-being with Jenn Cochran

Menders: Lead from Within with Dr. Nicola De Paul

For Menders episode 24, I had the opportunity to chat with Jenn Cochran, a Nurse Coach and the founder of Happy Whole Life. Jenn shared some of the lessons she’s learned from her years as a nurse and how she’s grown past some of the less helpful elements of the self-sacrificing nursing culture as she’s learned to care for her whole self.

Jenn shares her transformation experience from that “angry at the system nurse” to a nurse who is refreshed daily and delighted to do her job. And she attributes this transformation to boundary setting. Jenn’s story illustrates the power that we have to create transformation, even when we are working in challenging conditions and imperfect organizations.

And she highlights the power leaders have to care for their employees simply by taking the time to honor and value themselves. We can all model self-honoring actions for those around us. Our patients. Our employees. Our families.

Listen to find out:

· How focusing on her self-care was initially received by her nursing colleagues.

· Why focusing on nurses’ well-being is beneficial for the bottom line of healthcare organizations.

· And the simple strategies leaders can use to demonstrate that they value their employees!

I hope this conversation inspires you to take the time to value yourself and to consider what values your behaviors are modeling for those you care about.
Additional Resources:
You can find Jenn Cochran at Happy Whole Life and on Tiktok, Instagram, and Facebook