Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long

What does strong nursing leadership look like in today’s healthcare environment?In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Theresa Murphy, Chief Nursing Officer at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital, for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, purpose, and staying grounded in high-pressure environments.Theresa shares her journey from bedside nursing to executive leadership, the lessons learned leading through COVID, and why staying connected to frontline nurses is critical for every healthcare leader. She also opens up about building high-performing teams, the power of calm leadership, and the advice she would give her younger self.This is an inspiring conversation for nurse leaders, healthcare executives, and anyone committed to leading with purpose and compassion. 

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Elaina McAdams, CEO of the College and University Healthcare Education Consortium, to discuss her remarkable journey from CNA and trauma nurse to healthcare executive and entrepreneur.Elaina shares the bold career decisions that led her from traditional nursing leadership into startups, venture-backed growth, and now solving workforce challenges at scale. She opens up about choosing impact over comfort, the realities of entrepreneurship, and why leadership is about ownership, action, and creating meaningful change.This conversation is packed with insights for nurse leaders, healthcare executives, and anyone navigating career growth with purpose.

What does it really take to grow into leadership while staying connected to your purpose?In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Valerie Kaura, Associate Chief Nurse Officer at Redlands Community Hospital, to discuss her journey from LVN to executive leadership. Valerie shares how personal adversity shaped her calling to nursing, why mentorship changed the trajectory of her career, and how great leaders stay meaningfully connected to their teams.They also explore the importance of knowing your “why,” building healthy workplace cultures, and leading with authenticity while embracing your own style. This is a powerful conversation for anyone navigating growth, leadership, and purpose in healthcare. 

Growth doesn’t happen in comfort.In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Terri Lynn Hunter shares her journey from emergency nursing to executive leadership - and the pivotal moments that shaped who she is today.After spending over two decades in a system where she was comfortable and thriving, Terri made a bold decision to step into the unknown. What followed was one of the most challenging - and transformative - periods of her career.This conversation dives into: Why the biggest growth comes from choosing discomfort  How mentorship shapes leadership and purpose  What it really means to “take a pulse check” in your career  Practical advice for young and emerging healthcare leaders Terri also shares a powerful reminder: you don’t need to be perfect to lead - you just need to be willing to grow.If you’re navigating change, questioning your next move, or looking to expand your leadership impact, this episode will hit home.

What does it really mean to lead in healthcare without losing touch with patient care?In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Kimberly sits down with David Marshall, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Executive at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, to unpack a career that didn’t follow a straight line but led to powerful impact.David shares how his journey from bedside nursing to executive leadership shaped his perspective on purpose, influence, and staying grounded in what matters most. He reflects on a pivotal “pulse check” moment where he reassessed his impact, made intentional shifts, and reconnected with frontline teams.They also dive into the balance between precision and presence in leadership, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why giving yourself grace is critical to long-term growth.This is a conversation about leadership, reflection, and making meaningful impact at every level of healthcare.

What happens when you say yes to opportunities you’re not fully prepared for?In this episode of Pulse Check, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Judie Boehmer, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals, to unpack the pivotal moments that shaped her leadership journey.From stepping into roles outside her clinical expertise to navigating career uncertainty with intentional “pause and reflect” moments, Judie shares the mindset shifts that helped her grow into a senior healthcare leader.They dive into the power of self-reflection, the importance of building a trusted circle for feedback, and why embracing discomfort can unlock your next level of impact.If you’re navigating your career path or stepping into leadership, this conversation will challenge you to think bigger - and trust the process.

Leadership in healthcare often moves at a relentless pace. But the best leaders know when it’s time to pause.In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Kimberly sits down with Dr. Anne Marie Watkins, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Executive at UCI Health and Assistant Dean of Nursing Education. Anne Marie shares how her career evolved from a pediatric ICU nurse to a healthcare executive leading system-wide transformation.They discuss the power of influence beyond the bedside, the importance of listening to frontline teams, and why leaders must sometimes step back and take a “pulse check” during times of rapid growth and change.Anne Marie also reflects on how leadership visibility, communication, and trust empower nursing teams to thrive. She closes by sharing advice she would give her younger self about pacing a career in healthcare and maintaining balance along the way.This conversation offers valuable insights for healthcare leaders, nurses, and anyone navigating leadership in complex environments.In this episode, you'll learn:How nursing leaders can expand their impact beyond direct patient careWhy pausing during organizational change can strengthen teamsThe importance of frontline input when making operational decisionsHow visibility and communication keep leaders connected to their teamsWhy a successful career in healthcare is a marathon, not a sprint

In this mini episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Long speaks with Ben Farber, Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Eisenhower Health.Ben shares the journey that took him from bedside nursing to executive leadership, highlighting the mentors and opportunities that helped shape his career. He reflects on pivotal “pulse check” moments when evaluating career transitions, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal values with organizational mission.The conversation also explores how leaders can maintain purpose and meaning in demanding executive roles, and why remembering your “True North” can guide you through the most challenging days in healthcare.Ben closes with advice to his younger self - a reminder that mistakes are part of leadership growth and that learning from them is what ultimately shapes great leaders.In this episode, we discuss:Ben’s career path from bedside nurse to Chief Nursing OfficerThe importance of mentorship and growth opportunitiesHow leaders should evaluate career transitionsFinding purpose and meaning in executive healthcare leadershipWhy learning from mistakes is critical to leadership development

In this episode of Pulse Check, host Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Deborah Sober, MSN, MBA, RN, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula. Deborah shares her remarkable 31+ year journey at the hospital - from bedside ICU nursing to leadership roles - and reflects on never imagining herself in executive leadership, yet finding deep fulfillment in supporting nurses to deliver exceptional patient care. She opens up about key "pulse check" moments, including navigating the uncertainties of COVID-19 and the recent unionization of nurses at her long-union-free organization. Deborah discusses maintaining purpose amid chaos, the importance of checking ego at the door, and her unwavering "why": caring for patients, teams, and the community. A candid, inspiring conversation on leadership, adaptability, and staying grounded in mission-driven healthcare.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Kimberly sits down with Jennifer Cord, Chief Nursing Officer at Providence Mission Hospital, to discuss her inspiring journey in nursing, leadership lessons from the pandemic, and the enduring purpose that drives her work. Jennifer shares candid insights on navigating challenges, supporting care teams, and the importance of lifelong learning in healthcare leadership. Whether you're a healthcare professional or aspiring leader, this conversation offers practical wisdom and heartfelt reflections on making a difference in your community.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Dr. Nancy Blake, a distinguished nurse scientist and recently retired Chief Nursing Officer of Los Angeles General Medical Center. Dr. Blake reflects on her remarkable 45-year career in nursing leadership, sharing insights on resilience, purpose, and navigating pivotal moments in healthcare administration.From early experiences in pediatric nursing to leading during the pandemic and guiding her hospital to Magnet designation, Dr. Blake offers candid advice for aspiring nurse leaders and shares the lessons she wishes she could tell her younger self. This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, career strategy, and the importance of self-care in high-pressure roles.Tune in for inspiration, practical wisdom, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead one of Southern California’s most critical hospitals.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with James Jackson, CEO of Alameda Health System, to discuss his 35-year journey in healthcare administration. From an unexpected pivot from clinical sciences to healthcare leadership, to moments in his career that prompted deep reflection, James shares invaluable lessons on ethics, purpose, and balancing work with family. He also reflects on the pride of serving his hometown community and the legacy of his father in healthcare. This is a must-listen for emerging healthcare leaders and executives seeking insight into navigating a meaningful, ethical, and impactful career in healthcare administration.

On this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, we are honored to welcome Dr. Joy White, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Legacy Health Good Samaritan Medical Center. Dr. White shares her inspiring journey from a single mother navigating life challenges to a transformational healthcare executive leading complex clinical operations.We explore pivotal moments that shaped her leadership style, strategies for staying grounded in an often isolating field, and the essential advice she gives to emerging nursing professionals. Dr. White emphasizes the power of remembering your “why,” leaning into opportunities, and leading with purpose and empathy.Whether you are an aspiring nurse leader, healthcare professional, or anyone passionate about human-centered leadership, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement to make an impact in your field.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Kimberly sits down with Carina Menjivar, Associate Chief Nursing Officer at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, to explore the journey of leadership in healthcare. Carina shares how her diverse experiences - from bedside nursing to healthcare administration - shaped her approach to leadership, the pivotal moments that defined her style, and strategies for staying grounded in high-pressure roles. She also offers actionable advice for nurses starting their careers, emphasizing adaptability, mentorship, and embracing opportunities to lead.Whether you’re a healthcare professional or simply interested in leadership lessons, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring stories about impacting teams and patients alike.

In this episode of Pulse Check, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Courtnay Caufield, Associate Chief Nursing Officer at Cottage Health, to explore leadership, resilience, and the human side of nursing. Courtnay shares her journey from frontline nurse to executive leader, the pivotal moments that shaped her approach to leadership, and how she fosters trust, connection, and curiosity within her teams.Whether you’re an emerging nurse, healthcare professional, or leader looking for inspiration, Courtnay’s insights on mentorship, staying grounded, and leading with humanity offer actionable takeaways for any career stage in healthcare.Listen to learn how one leader creates impact not just through processes, but through people, trust, and kindness.

In this episode of Pulse Check, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Karen Descent, Chief Nursing Officer at Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital, to explore her journey in nursing and leadership. Karen shares the pivotal moments that shaped her career, the lessons she’s learned about leading with heart, and the strategies she uses to stay grounded in a high-pressure field. From personal loss to professional growth, Karen offers advice for new nurses and insight into how transformational leadership impacts patient care and staff development.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Long sits down with Nicolette Fiore-Lopez, PhD, RN, CENP, FAONL, FAAN, Chief Nursing Officer at St. Charles Hospital, part of Catholic Health in Long Island, New York.Nicolette shares her leadership journey - from unexpected beginnings in nursing to more than two decades of executive leadership. She reflects on the mentors and professional organizations that shaped her growth, discusses how she stays grounded amid the isolation that can come with senior leadership, and offers thoughtful advice for nurses at every stage of their careers.This conversation is filled with practical wisdom, humility, and perspective for emerging nurse leaders and seasoned executives alike.

In this episode of Pulse Check, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Dr. Rendi Solis, Assistant Chief Nursing Officer at Antelope Valley Medical Center, to explore what it truly means to lead with humility, purpose, and compassion in healthcare.Dr. Solis shares her journey from bedside nursing to executive leadership, pivotal moments that shaped her career, and strategies for overcoming challenges like staffing, access to care, and the isolation often felt in leadership roles. She also offers actionable advice for nurses and emerging leaders stepping into management positions.This episode is a candid look at modern nursing leadership—rooted in service, resilience, and connection.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Karrie Powell, CEO of ATC Healthcare, to explore her journey in healthcare leadership. Karrie shares the pivotal moments that shaped her career, the mentors who guided her, and the strategies she uses to stay grounded as a leader. From opening new hospitals in California to transforming rural healthcare systems in South Carolina, Karrie provides invaluable insights for nurses, aspiring leaders, and anyone passionate about making a meaningful impact in healthcare.Tune in to hear her advice for new nurses, the importance of mentorship, and how to lead with purpose, resilience, and community focus.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Cody Legler, Senior Vice President & System Chief Nursing Officer at Maimonides Health. Cody shares his journey from a hospital phlebotomist to a top nursing executive, highlighting pivotal career moments, leadership lessons, and strategies for navigating the challenges and occasional loneliness of nurse leadership. Tune in for actionable insights on mentorship, professional growth, and influencing the nursing profession at large.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Chief Nursing Officer Sharon Howe shares her powerful journey from ICU bedside nurse to senior nurse leader - and the pivotal moments that shaped who she is today.Sharon opens up about the unexpected push that launched her leadership career, the profound impact of managing a COVID ICU during the height of the pandemic, and the emotional toll leaders often carry in silence.She discusses the isolation many new leaders face, the importance of building community, and the practical steps she took to stay grounded while supporting teams through unimaginable challenges.Sharon also delivers one of the most important reminders for every nurse and nurse leader: taking care of yourself isn’t optional. It’s foundational to caring for others.If you're in nursing or leadership - or on the path to becoming either—this episode offers wisdom you’ll return to again and again.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Dr. Pat Patton, Chief Nurse Officer for Swedish Health System, to explore the journey of becoming a transformative leader in healthcare. Pat shares his story -from aspiring veterinarian to Army combat medic, pediatric nurse, and ultimately, Chief Nursing Officer - highlighting the pivotal experiences, challenges, and lessons that shaped her leadership philosophy.Listeners will gain insights on leadership development, emotional intelligence, navigating career pivots, and maintaining balance in high-stakes healthcare roles. Whether you’re a nursing professional or a leader in any field, Pat’s story provides actionable advice and inspiration for your own leadership journey.