Connecting with Purpose at Covenant Health

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, host Spencer Rogers engages with Wes Wells, who shares his journey from pharmacist to executive director of surgical services. They discuss the importance of leadership in healthcare, the challenges of transitioning into new roles, and the significance of purpose in caregiving. Wes emphasizes the need for collaboration, trust, and effective communication within teams, as well as the value of personal growth and development in leadership. The conversation highlights the rewarding aspects of working in healthcare, especially in a faith-based organization, and the moments that reinforce one's purpose in the field.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, host Spencer Rogers interviews Stetson Smitherman, a nurse manager at Covenant Health. Stetson shares his journey from a biochemistry background to nursing, highlighting his experiences during COVID-19 and his transition into patient logistics. The conversation explores the importance of community service in healthcare, the challenges of managing patient logistics, and the need for effective leadership and change management in the healthcare sector.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, Jamie White shares her journey in healthcare, from her early aspirations to her current role as Executive Director at Covenant Health. She discusses her passion for leadership, the importance of community engagement, and the impact of working in a faith-based nonprofit organization. Jamie emphasizes the challenges of healthcare, the motivation she finds in patient care, and offers advice for aspiring leaders in the field.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, host Spencer Rogers speaks with Andrew Johnson about his journey in healthcare, transitioning from nursing to leadership roles, and his new position as Director of Operations at Covenant Children's Hospital. They discuss the importance of finding purpose in healthcare, the challenges and opportunities in the current healthcare landscape, and the significance of saying yes to new opportunities for career growth.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, host Spencer engages with Connie Gonzales, the new Executive Director of Nursing at Covenant Health. Connie shares her journey into nursing, her military service, and her leadership philosophy. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, patient care, and aligning with the mission of Covenant Health. Connie also discusses the challenges and rewards of leadership, the significance of listening to caregivers and patients, and her vision for fostering a compassionate healthcare environment.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, Ely Perea shares his extensive journey in healthcare, detailing his transition to the role of Chief Administrative Officer at Covenant Health. He discusses the importance of aligning with the organization's mission, his leadership style, and the adaptability required in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Ely also reflects on personal interests, including his social media engagement centered around grilling, and offers valuable advice for aspiring leaders.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, Chris Shavers shares her extensive journey in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of human connection and the mission of caregiving. She discusses her role in human resources, the significance of supporting caregivers, and the impact of personal stories on the mission. The conversation highlights the commitment to community needs, caregiver development, and the challenges of balancing HR functions within a faith-based organization. Chris reflects on the importance of reconnecting with the mission and the profound impact caregivers have on the lives of others.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, hosts Spencer and Daniel are joined by Bishop Robert Coerver to discuss the intersection of faith and healthcare, emphasizing the importance of mission-driven care. They explore the historical role of Catholics in healthcare, the significance of inclusivity, and the spiritual journey through Lent leading to Easter. The conversation also addresses the challenges faced by healthcare workers, particularly nurses, and the need for self-care and community support. Bishop Coerver shares personal experiences and insights, encouraging caregivers to remain focused on their mission and the impact they have on patients' lives.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, Hannah Fish shares her journey in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of mission-driven caregiving. She discusses her role in the human experience team at Covenant Health, the challenges and rewards of addressing patient concerns, and the deep connection to the mission of serving the vulnerable. The conversation highlights the significance of empathy, the integration of faith in healthcare, and the inspiring stories of caregivers making a difference in patients' lives. Hannah encourages new caregivers to engage with the mission and connect with their colleagues to enhance their experience and impact.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, host Spencer engages with Theresa Hayes, an executive assistant at Covenant Health, who shares her 44-year journey with the organization. Theresa discusses her deep connection to Covenant's mission and values, her day-to-day responsibilities, and how her personal faith influences her work. She emphasizes the importance of serving others, the impact of a faith-based approach in healthcare, and the genuine care exhibited by her colleagues. The conversation highlights the significance of community, support, and the spiritual aspect of healing in patient care.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, host Spencer engages with Joshua Reglin, a chaplain at Covenant Health, to discuss the vital role of chaplaincy in healthcare. Josh shares his journey into chaplaincy, detailing the educational requirements and the importance of self-awareness in providing spiritual care. The conversation explores a typical day for a chaplain, the alignment of chaplaincy with Covenant's mission, and the significance of supporting both patients and healthcare staff. Joshua emphasizes the need for chaplains in the healthcare system, especially in the wake of the pandemic, and provides insights into how chaplains navigate diverse spiritual backgrounds while offering support. The episode concludes with practical information on how staff can access chaplaincy services.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, host Spencer engages with Cayce Kaufman, a mission lead at Covenant Medical Group, discussing her journey in healthcare, the role of faith in caregiving, and the importance of community partnerships. They explore how Covenant Medical Group approaches patient care, addresses challenges, and emphasizes mentorship and leadership within the organization. Cayce shares personal reflections on her mission leadership and offers advice for caregivers on managing stress and finding fulfillment in their roles.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, host Spencer engages with Holly LaFebre, Chief Mission Officer at Covenant Health, discussing her journey, the mission and vision of the organization, and the importance of caregiver engagement. They explore the concept of 'sacred encounters' in healthcare, the new mission and culture orientation for caregivers, and the Values in Action program that recognizes caregivers living the mission. Holly emphasizes the significance of community involvement and the rewarding nature of being a mission leader, encouraging caregivers to connect deeply with their work and the mission of Covenant Health.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, hosts Spencer and Daniel engage with Sister Marian Schubert, who shares her extensive journey in caregiving and mission integration within healthcare. The conversation emphasizes the importance of seeing patients as individuals sent by God, the necessity of compassion in healthcare, and the significance of mission integration in all aspects of caregiving. Sister Marian's experiences highlight the challenges and rewards of serving the community, and the hosts reflect on finding purpose and gratitude even in difficult times. In this conversation, the speakers reflect on the historical roots and ongoing mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph, emphasizing the importance of compassion, dignity, and community service. They discuss the challenges faced by religious life today and the need for adaptation and sustainability in their ministries. The dialogue highlights the interconnectedness of values and the call to serve others, while also acknowledging the evolving role of sisters in healthcare and community service.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, Dr. Amy Thompson shares her journey from a passionate medical student to the CEO of the Lubbock Service Area. The conversation explores the sacred relationship between caregivers, the importance of mission and heritage in healthcare, and how personal faith influences leadership. Dr. Thompson discusses the challenges of transitioning from clinical practice to administration, the significance of addressing community health needs, and the legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph. The episode emphasizes the importance of compassion, community service, and the ongoing commitment to providing quality care, especially for the vulnerable.

In this episode of the Connecting with Purpose podcast, the new host Spencer Rogers joins Daniel Hronek to discuss their shared experiences in healthcare, the importance of mission and heritage in caregiving, and the future direction of the podcast. They explore Spencer's journey from the operating room to public relations, the significance of mission work, and how the podcast aims to connect caregivers and share impactful stories.