Overcoming Grief and Embracing New Dreams: An Interview with Cara Doering

In this latest episode of the Dream Catcher podcast I talk with Cara Doering who shares her inspiring journey from nursing to speaking and coaching. She also shares her experiences with grief, and her dreams of writing a book and becoming an Airbnb host. Discover how her passions, personal stories, and professional insights can motivate you to live your best life.BIOCara Doering is a grief and wellness coach, registered nurse, and educator redefining how we navigate grief, build resilience, and care for ourselves in the midst of life’s hardest moments. She helps caregivers, healthcare professionals, and high-capacity humans expand their emotional capacity so they can care deeply—without burning out.With years of experience as an ICU nurse, Cara supported patients and families through life-and-death moments on a daily basis, guiding them through uncertainty, loss, and unimaginable change. Her work is not only professional—it is deeply personal. Having experienced profound grief herself, Cara brings both clinical expertise and lived understanding to every space she enters.She holds a BSN and an MSN in Nursing Education and has taught and mentored thousands of nursing students and clinicians, preparing them to deliver not only skillful care, but deeply human care.Currently working in transplant care, Cara educates patients awaiting life-saving transplants and trains healthcare teams in best practices—bridging the gap between clinical excellence and compassionate presence.Cara became a speaker to continue caring for people beyond the bedside. Today, she delivers powerful, heart-centered keynotes that blend science, story, and practical tools. Her work challenges the normalization of burnout and offers a new paradigm: one where presence, self-trust, and sustainable care are not luxuries—but necessities.Through her grounded and compassionate approach, Cara leaves audiences feeling seen, equipped, and expanded—ready to navigate grief, lead with empathy, and show up fully in both their work and their lives.Chapters00:00Introduction to Cara Doering03:02Kara's Journey in Nursing and Grief06:00Transitioning to Speaking and Coaching09:00The Process of Writing a Book12:01Future Aspirations and Coaching15:05The Importance of Community for Moms17:58Personal Experiences with Loss19:31Family Life in Missouri vs. Florida21:01Finding Happiness and Health22:10Exploring Local Attractions24:12Community Growth and Changes25:50Sports and Hobbies28:43The Journey of Nursing Education30:25Nursing Shortages and Challenges34:35Navigating Grief and Loss38:57Hope and Moving Forward