43: From Expense to Revenue: Redefining Nursing Value with Sharon Pearce

What if nurses weren’t seen as a hospital expense—but as a revenue generator? In this episode of Nurse Rosa’s INsights, meet Sharon Pearce, DNP, CRNA, FAANA, FAAN, a nationally recognized nurse leader, advocate, and co-host of the award-winning "Beyond the Mask" podcast. With over 40 years in nursing and decades of advocacy at both state and national levels, Sharon brings her deep expertise in policy, leadership, and health care systems to a critical conversation about reimagining the role of nurses in hospital economics. We explore how transitioning nurses from the “cost side” to the “revenue side” can fundamentally shift how nursing is valued, opening doors for sustainable healthcare models and greater recognition of nursing’s impact. Sharon shares her inspiring journey—from bedside nurse to CRNA, past AANA president, lobbyist, Yale DNP graduate, podcast host, and global speaker. You’ll also hear her personal story of advocacy for diabetes care and her leadership in groundbreaking legislation protecting children with diabetes at school. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How nurses can move from being seen as expenses to recognized revenue drivers in healthcare Sharon’s insights from her leadership roles in the AANA, NOA, and national advocacy work The creation of Yale’s first-ever Candidate School for Nurses and why it matters for future nurse leaders Lessons from Sharon’s run for the North Carolina State House of Representatives and the power of political engagement for nurses The connection between Sharon’s personal journey with diabetes advocacy and legislative wins like SB 911 How nurse-led innovation and advocacy can transform healthcare’s future About Today’s Guest: Sharon Pearce, DNP, CRNA, FAANA, FAAN, has been a nurse for over 41 years, with a career spanning bedside care, anesthesia practice, legislative advocacy, and national leadership. She is the past president of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA), co-chair of the Commission for Nurse Reimbursement, and co-host of Beyond the Mask, one of the top 50 medical podcasts in the country. Inducted into the FAAN in 2022, Sharon is a sought-after speaker on advocacy, healthcare policy, and nursing leadership. Resources & Links: Connect with Sharon Pearce Listen to Beyond the Mask Learn more about the Commission for Nurse Reimbursement Connect with host Rosa Hart: @NurseRosaSpeaks For more podcasts hosted by Rosa Hart, see Stronger After Stroke, Aging Like a Pro and The Lou Review.