In this 100th podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend and CEO, Janie Schumaker. Janie Schumaker is a dedicated healthcare professional whose journey began in a nursing home doing laundry. She furthered her education as a certified nursing assistant to LPN and finally obtaining her RN. Janie quickly recognized her passion for the Emergency Department, where she spent most of her career at the bedside and in nursing leadership. As the CEO of the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing for the past seven years, Janie is a fierce advocate for nurses, emphasizing the importance of professional development and specialty certification. Janie holds multiple degrees, advanced certifications, and is an active member in several nursing organizations. Outside of her professional life, Janie volunteers for an animal rescue in Kansas City and cherishes time with her family, including her husband, son, daughter-in-law, two granddaughters, four dogs and the occasional foster pet, just because. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Janie about her insights on leadership, taking risks, and owning mistakes. This episode is called, Certified Leadership: One life influencing another. Janie can be reached on LinkedIn and Facebook @JanieSchumaker BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friends, Sean Elwell and Adam Oliver. Sean Elwell is the Senior Director of Emergency Services, Critical Care Transport, and the Pediatric Trauma Center at Nemours Children’s Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware, where he has dedicated over 21 years of service. Starting his career as an EMT, Sean transitioned to become a registered nurse and earned his Doctor of Nursing Practice from Wilmington University. He holds a master’s degree in nursing leadership and health systems management from Drexel University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. A recognized leader in his field, Sean has published numerous articles and presented at regional and national conferences. He is a Past-President of the Society of Trauma Nurses and currently serves as Secretary/Treasurer on the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. In addition to his professional roles, Sean actively contributes to his community as the Mayor of Elsinboro Township, where he has served for 18 years, including 14 years as Mayor. He has held various leadership positions within local government and is currently on the Executive Board for the New Jersey League of Municipalities, set to become First Vice-President this November. Sean also dedicates time to volunteer with the Elsinboro Fire Company, where he serves as Chief. His extensive experience and commitment to both healthcare and public service make him a respected leader in his community. Adam Oliver is a dedicated healthcare professional with over two decades of experience in the emergency medical field. He resides in Gilliam, Louisiana, located in northern Caddo Parish, approximately 30 miles north of Shreveport. Currently Adam serves as the Director of Integrated Health for LifeNet, Inc. and manages three rotor-wing assets and one fixed-wing asset within the Air Division, while also overseeing the development of community paramedic and telehealth programs. As a passionate advocate for community service, Adam is the Mayor of Gilliam and has previously served as a town council member. His commitment to public safety is further exemplified by his ten-year service as a Board Commissioner for Caddo Fire District Seven, which operates in a large rural area. Recently appointed to the Hospital Service District board, he plays a vital role in supporting the North Caddo Medical Center, a critical access hospital that includes five rural health clinics, two pharmacies, and a dental clinic. Since a young age, Adam has been committed to serving others in their most vulnerable moments. His diverse experiences as a paramedic, emergency nurse, ICU nurse, and flight nurse have shaped his approach to healthcare and community engagement, reinforcing his belief in the importance of compassion and support in times of need. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with these dual guests and discuss how their experiences in healthcare have shaped their political roles and community service. This episode is called, Mayor may not be outside the Scope of Nursing. Sean Elwell can be reached via email at [email protected] and Adam Oliver can be reached on Instagram @flyin_fishin. BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend, Crystal Bencken. Crystal Bencken is a Simulation Education Manager at Atrium Health Carolinas Simulation Center, where she leverages 16 years of experience in emergency nursing and trauma to enhance simulation-based education. Her expertise lies in developing projects that emphasize teamwork, communication, systems testing, and process improvement, ensuring that healthcare professionals are well-equipped to deliver optimal patient care. Crystal's commitment to fostering collaborative learning environments makes her a valuable asset in advancing simulation education initiatives. Come along as Janie Schumaker and Hollye Briggs talk with Crystal about her unexpected entry into nursing, her experiences during 9/11, and her realization that healthcare professionals must practice together to be effective. This episode is called, Simulation Education: Let the wild rumpus begin! Crystal can be reached on LinkedIn @CrystalBencken and on the Atrium Health website at https://atriumhealth.org/education/carolinas-simulation-center BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend, Deborah Spann. Deborah Spann is a dedicated Registered Nurse with extensive experience in network development aimed at improving trauma and time-sensitive illness responses across the healthcare system. Currently serving as the Education Coordinator for the Louisiana Emergency Response Network, Deb is committed to advancing emergency and medical surgical nursing through education and certification. Deb holds a degree from Louisiana Tech University and a Masters in Clinical Nurse Leadership from the University of Arizona. Obtaining and maintaining her CEN and being inducted as a Fellow in the Academy of Emergency Nurses, Deb has accomplished many achievements throughout her career and with still more to come. Beyond her professional achievements, Deb is deeply rooted in her family life as the eldest of five siblings, a mother of two, and a grandmother to five, ensuring that her life is both fulfilling and vibrant. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Deb about barriers in communication, the importance of professional development, and the value of recognition. This episode is called, Serving up a hot cup of Coffee and Mentoring. Deb can be reached on LinkedIn @DebSpann and on the LERN website at www.LERN.LA.GOV BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend, Adam Sorenson. Graduating in 2012 with his BSN, Adam Sorenson began his career as a pediatric nurse before transitioning to a role as a pediatric intensive care nurse. After a few years in the PICU, Adam shifted to working in an adult surgical intensive care unit (SICU) at a Level 1 trauma center, where he continues to work today. Adam’s professional development includes advanced training, starting with Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) and Advanced Trauma Care Nursing (ATCN) to obtaining his certification as a Trauma Certified Registered Nurse (TCRN). In 2014, during the Ebola outbreak in Central and West Africa, Adam joined the Highly Infectious Treatment Team (HITeam) at Denver Health Hospital, an all-voluntary group established to handle such crises. Denver Health was designated as an Ebola regional treatment center in 2015. In 2021, Adam took on a part-time role as a Biocontainment Unit Nurse Educator, focusing on training, education, and preparedness for viral hemorrhagic fevers, rare respiratory viruses, and novel viruses. Additionally, Adam has served as a nurse in the Air Force Reserves for the past five years. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Adam about his nursing career from pediatrics to trauma care to biocontainment. This episode is called, “Hero Dirt: Collaboration on Emerging Special Pathogens.” Adam can be reached on the Denver Health website at https://www.denverhealth.org/services/regional-emerging-special-pathogen-treatment-center and also recommends resources through the NETEC website at https://netec.org/ BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend, Tyler Reeves. Tyler Reeves started his career at Clara Barton Hospital in Great Bend, KS. He advanced from CNA to LPN and then RN, eventually spending a decade there with an initial start in med-surg then moving to the Emergency Department. While working in the ED, Tyler had the opportunity to join the Barton County Transfer Service as a ground transport nurse for four years. In 2018, Tyler became a flight nurse with EagleMed, initially stationed in Goodland, KS. Here he obtained his CFRN and CEN credentials. Tyler also furthered his prehospital training becoming a Nationally Registered Paramedic in 2022 and gaining experience at Ellis County EMS. In August 2022, Tyler transferred to a new rotor base, EagleMed 10 in Great Bend, KS, where he has taken on roles as the QA Coordinator, Clinical Coach, and Base Educator. In addition to his roles at EagleMed, Tyler keeps busy as the founder of KanStaff Nurses LLC, pulling shifts with Ellis County EMS and his favorite role of being a dad. Tyler has grown his career in the past 11 years as a nurse and continues to excel in his diverse and impactful career. It’s no surprise to those that know Tyler that he was the recipient of the 2024 Distinguished CFRN Award. Come along as Janie Schumaker and Hollye Briggs talk with Tyler about his career in flight nursing. He will discuss his passion for patient care, and what keeps him motivated. This episode is called, “More than My Hometown: Spotlight on the 2024 Distinguished CFRN Award Winner.” Tyler can be reached on LinkedIn @TylerReeves-316a49215 and on Facebook @EagleMed10-Great Bend, KS and also KanStaff Nurses LLC pages. BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend, Lionel Lyde. Lionel Lyde is a retired Military Nurse with 35 years of service in the armed forces. He holds his MHA MBA, and CEN. Lionel has taken on clinical, leadership and executive leadership positions during his 31-year nursing career, spending most of his clinical time as a critical care and ER/Trauma Nurse. His last position being an Air Force Critical Care Master Clinician and Special Military Consultant to the Air Force Surgeon General for Critical Care Nursing. He retired from military service 2022 but has certainly not retired from nursing. He’s currently the Director of Nursing for a group home and manages a free clinic. His current professional goal is to network primary care clinics that provide care to low income and indigent patient populations. This goal is part of a greater aspiration to facilitate access to the healthcare system and decompress community emergency departments. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Lionel about his career in military nursing and leadership. He will discuss his current focus, improving access to healthcare for low-income populations. This episode is called, This is the Way Of Nursing. Lionel can be reached on Facebook and LinkedIn @Lionel Lyde BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend, Megan Wood.  Megan Wood is currently a critical care ground transport nurse with AHN LifeFlight and holds the CFRN and Pre-hospital Register Nurse certification. She also works as a nurse intensivist, critical care, and L& D nurse at a PA area hospital. Megan began her career as a paramedic for over 10 years in a busy 911 based EMS system and also as a flight paramedic. When she became a nurse, she continued to fly with Stat MedEvac in Pittsburgh, and working some shifts in a local hospital. After a few years, Megan decided to embrace change and jumped into an ICU role in her hometown of Washington, PA, and once she got a few years in the ICU, she changed again to a role in the Labor and Delivery unit. It was here that Megan discovered a great passion for women’s health and has used that knowledge to teach other healthcare providers on the topics of fetal, maternal, and neonatal care as well as transport considerations for this special population. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Megan about the journey from paramedic to transport nurse. She speaks to the challenges of ground transport nursing, particularly for high-risk OB care. This episode is called, Take Care of You on the Go. Megan can be reached on LinkedIn @MeganWood BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend, Jaime Phillips.  Jaime Phillips is currently a special agent with the Army Criminal Investigation Division, a retired Staff Sergeant with the U.S. Army Reserves, a registered nurse, and certified tactical paramedic. Jaime has over ten years of experience in law enforcement and tactical medicine which has made him very passionate about the specialty of operational medicine. Jaime is a founding member, current President, and Fellow for the newly launched Academy of Operational Medicine. This fellowship program recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their advanced practice of operational medicine through experience, education, and leadership. Come along as Janie Schumaker, Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Jaime about his latest mission: the Academy of Operational Medicine. He's unifying healthcare providers practicing in unconventional and hostile environments. This episode is called, Where Comfort Zones End. Jaime can be reached on Instagram @FAOMedicine and on faom.org BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend, Taylor DuBose. Taylor is an emergency nurse with 6 years of experience in various ED settings, including a level 2 trauma and rural. She holds the CEN and CPEN credentials and is currently working as the Department Chair of Nursing at a technical college. Taylor oversees the Associates Degree, Transition, and Practical Nursing programs. Taylor started her nursing education as an ADN then completed an RN to MSN tract in Leadership and Management. She recently completed her MBA and is enrolling in a DNP program for Educational Leadership It’s clear that Taylor is passionate about education and using her love of lifelong learning to help others achieve their goals. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Taylor about her start in emergency nursing. Taylor is using all her experiences to guide student nurses as they navigate the transition from classroom to patient care. This episode is called, “Learning to Embrace the In-between.” Taylor can be reached on Facebook @TaylorDuBose BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Kim Colegrove. Kim Colegrove is an international speaker and the author of Mindfulness for Warriors, The Mindfulness for Warriors Handbook, and Wellness Warrior Style. She’s also the founder of Pause First Academy—an organization that provides online and in-person wellness and resilience training and support for society’s warriors, protectors, guardians, and healers. Come along as Janie Schumaker and Hollye Briggs talk with Kim about her life and work teaching practices of self-care to the front-line warriors in law enforcement, military, and healthcare. This episode is called “Why I decided to Pause First.” Kim can be reached at Academy.pausefirst.com and on Instagram @KimColegroveAuthor BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Merideth Gradowski. Merideth Gradowski is the Trauma Program Manager at an ACS (American College of Surgeons) verified Level I trauma center in Phoenix, Arizona. She has been a nurse since 2009 with the majority of her experience in emergency and trauma nursing. Her prior roles include ED charge nurse and supervisor, trauma injury prevention coordinator, and trauma performance improvement nurse. Merideth initially obtained her associates degree in nursing and then furthered her education with a Bachelors of Nursing from Arizona State University and then a Master’s of Nursing from Queens University of Charlotte. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Merideth about her role within    trauma care and her best advice to progress as a new professional.  This episode is called “Quality Trauma Care: From the City to the Burbs.” Merideth can be reached on LinkedIn @MeridethGradowski and X @level1traumarn BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend, Jonathan Green. Jonathan Green is the Senior Director of Nursing at Montefiore Medical Center’s Einstein Campus, Bronx, NY, responsible for nursing practice and operations across multiple service lines. He has over 25 years of healthcare leadership experience with an emphasis on emergency and critical care nursing and nursing leadership. He is active in the Emergency Nurses Association, the American College of Healthcare Executives, and is a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He teaches nursing leadership courses in the graduate and undergraduate programs at Excelsior University in Albany, NY, and consults on a variety of nursing leadership and nursing education topics.  A little about his education background, Jonathan earned an MBA in Healthcare Management from Excelsior University in Albany, NY, a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Master of Science degree in nursing at Dominican University in Orangeburg, NY, a Bachelor of Science in nursing at Excelsior University in Albany, NY, and a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY. He is board-certified in healthcare management as a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), as an emergency nurse and nurse practitioner (CEN, ENP-C), critical care nurse (CCRN), and as a nurse executive-advanced (NEA-BC).  Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Jonathan about his drive to influence and empower the entire healthcare team. This episode is called, “Engineering Excellence with Intentional Leadership”. Jonathan can be reached on LinkedIn @JGreenDNP BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Becky Rich. Becky Rich has been in the world of emergency medicine and nursing for the past 9 years, and recently obtained her Doctorate in Nursing Practice. She works full time in nursing education teaching didactic and practical skills and also works PRN as a float nurse across multiple emergency departments in a local health system. The chaos and the structure of these two positions are exactly, as Becky believes, the best of both worlds. Outside of her professional life, Becky enjoys family time with her fiancée, daughter, and two dogs. Whether it be walks, hikes, or pool time, she enjoys all the natural joys of the beautiful Arizona weather. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Becky about her start in emergency nursing.  They will chat about how she went from a patient care tech to recently finishing her DNP. It’s been quite a journey thus far, but Becky hasn’t lost a step. This episode is called “Another bend in the road from PCT to DNP”. Becky can be reached on LinkedIn @RebeccaRich BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Angela Atwood. Angela ‘Angie’ Atwood has over 25 years of experience caring for critical care patients in ground, air, and hospital environments. She has served in roles ranging from paramedic, firefighter, ER nurse, Flight RN, and direction of education. Angie has her MSN in Nursing leadership and management as well as her CFRN and FP-C (certified flight paramedic). Her current role includes clinical content creation, serving as a SME and adjunct lecturer and CAPCE (commission on accreditation for prehospital continuing education) Program Director. She also volunteers as a certification item writer and ASTNA education committee member. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Angie about her career. She’ll talk about how she went from taking an EMT class to educating thousands of transport and flight clinicians. Angie has taken every experience as an opportunity to grow into the highly effective professional she is today. This episode is called “Starting with the End in Mind”. Angie can be reached on LinkedIn @AngelaAtwood; Instagram & Facebook @AngieAtwood. BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Joe Hill. Joe Hill started his career at a Level 1 adult/pediatric trauma center then moved into critical care ground transport. He decided to make the jump into flight medicine where he stayed for 19 years serving as a flight nurse and clinical directors. In 2021, Joe finished his MSN-APRN and in March of 2023 Joe began working as a Family Nurse practitioner. Even though the learning curve was bit higher than he initially expected, Joe is finding he can make a significant difference in the emergency needs of patients through his new role in primary care. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Joe about his career in emergency and flight nursing. From his initial why to why he’s stayed in this profession for over 25 years, this episode is sure to help us all find a place to land.     This episode is called “Setting up an LZ in Primary Care”. Joe can be reached on LinkedIn @JosephHill-78937951 BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Mandy Felder. Mandy Felder is a leader in pediatric trauma care with over 20 years of pediatric nursing experience. She is currently the Pediatric Trauma Program Manager at an ACS Level II trauma center in South Carolina. Mandy serves on the South Carolina Emergency Medical Services for Children Committee as well as the Trauma Advisory Committee. She is an active member in several professional organizations including the Trauma Association of South Carolina, the Pediatric Trauma Society, and the Society of Trauma Nursing. She teaches ENPC, TNCC and PTACC. She holds her masters in nursing administration and organizational leadership as well as the TCRN and CPEN. Mandy is passionate about improving care for children in the prehospital and hospital setting and promoting injury prevention efforts and education. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Mandy about her passion for pediatric trauma care. She will also discuss why she believes it’s important to take that next step in professional development because even a small step is significant.   This episode is called “Creating Space for Pediatrics in Trauma Services.” Mandy can be reached on LinkedIn @Amanda Felder

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Tesla Teitge. Tesla is an emergency nurse with over 10 years of clinical experience. She is also the owner and creator for the dynamic and “Paradise” inspired compressions socks from her company, Up at Dawn Compression Socks. In 2023, Tesla completed her Masters in Nursing Education. She lives with her family in the Garden State where she has the opportunity to fill some of her favorite roles: ER nurse, university clinical instructor, mother, wife, beach enthusiast, and small business owner. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Tesla about her passion for emergency nursing and how she took her personal love of compression socks and became an entrepreneur for her company, Up at Dawn Compression.   This episode is called “Emergency Nursing Til Dawn Edition.” Tesla can be reached from her website: www.upatdawn.co

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Lynn Miller Hayward. Lynn Miller Hayward was born in South Africa and started her nursing career by obtaining a Bachelor of Social Sciences as a Registered Nursing and Midwife in 1979. She moved to the US shortly after graduating and spent 3 years in US healthcare before returning to South Africa. An experience with emergency services, lit the fire for Lynn to become an Advance Life Support Paramedic and take to the flight world for several years. She also became an AHA instructor for community education. From a cruise ship nurse to a free-standing ED in North Carolina, Lynn’s career has moved into many different specialties of nursing, but she as she will tell, gaining her CEN made her feel recognized and respected in the field of emergency nursing. Lynn returned stateside in 2023 and is trying something new in the field of Endoscopy, as she believes there is always something to learn. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Lynn about her deep-rooted career in nursing grown over the past 40 years. Lynn is sure to inspire and impart some wisdom she’s learned along the way.   This episode is called “No Wasted Time.” Lynn can be reached by email at [email protected]

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Shawntay Harris. Shawntay Harris is the President and CEO of Eminent Healthcare Resources Consultants Inc, which offers education for nurses from bedside clinical training to leadership and administrative coursework. With over 23 years of nursing experience in emergency services, she has established an influence in her home state of Texas as well as nationally through her work with the Texas Emergency Nurses Association and the ENA Foundation. Shawntay was recently highlighted in the media for her induction as a Fellow in the Academy of Emergency Nursing, becoming the first black nurse to be awarded this distinction for her service and leadership.  Shawntay maintains all 5 BCEN credentials as well as being a doctoral student with completion of her program coming very soon in 2024. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Shawntay about her career, and the ways she’s shaping the future of nursing through education and influence. Shawntay’s energy and excellence are sure to leave an impression.    This episode is called “Establishing an Eminent Legacy.” Shawntay can be reached on LinkedIn and Facebook @ShawntayHarris and on Eminentcpr.com

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Mary Whelan. Mary Whelan has held many different leadership positions over the past 24 years of her career as a director of emergency services from a level II Trauma Center to a community hospital ED, she proved time and again with every leadership role that she possesses the tools to transform department culture and produce improved staff and patient engagement scores. Mary built a reputation of actively engaging with staff to assist with patient flow and clinical care, helping build a relationship with bedside staff and demonstrating to them that she understands the valuable work they are doing. Mary’s tireless work to develop strategic collaborations within the ED and the healthcare system resulted in outcome data that reflected clinical excellence under her leadership.  Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Mary about nursing leadership. Looking across the span of her career, what topics she believes are most important for those continuing to lead the profession.   This episode is called “Reigniting Leadership in Nursing.” Mary can be reached on LinkedIn @MaryWhelan.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Joe Blansfield. Joseph “Joe” Blansfield is a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner with over 5 decades of experience in the emergency and trauma setting. The last 27 years of his career were spent in the role of the Trauma/Acute Care Surgery Program Manager at Boston Medical Center, where Joe was responsible for maintaining all the requirements for this Level 1 Trauma Center until his retirement in June 2019. Joe also has 26 years of active military service in the US Army Reserves retiring as a Colonel from the Army Nurse Corp, also earning a Bronze Star Medal and Legion of Merit. Joe has volunteered for BCEN through the TCRN Exam Construction Review Committee, worked on revisions of trauma materials for ENA, as well as being a speaker and published author of many clinical topics. He has been recognized for his excellence through various national awards as his dedication to nursing seems to know no bounds. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Joe about his career in all things trauma related, from the stretcher-side to deployment, advanced practice to giving back and everything in between.    This episode is called “Navigating and Challenging the Trauma Landscape.” Joe can be reached on Facebook and LinkedIn @Joseph Blansfield.  

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Anne O’Connor. Annemarie O’Connor is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner at the Burn and Complex Wound Center at the University of Chicago Medicine in Illinois. With over 35 years of nursing within burn care from the bedside to administration and advanced practice, Anne has taken on responsibilities that encompass intensive care, surgical assist, outpatient wound management and community health and education. Anne has served on various councils for advanced practice nursing and worked with the American Burn Association on several national committees including the Burn Nurse Certification initiative. She is a national faculty for the Advanced Burn Life Support Course thru ABA and has presented at state, national and international events presenting burn care content and education.   Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Anne about her journey in the specialty of burn nursing from initial fears to pioneering the future with national certification.   This episode is called “When a Passion for Burn Care ignites your Whole Career.” Anne recommends connecting through the website for University of Chicago Medical Center-Burn Center (www.uchicagomedicine.org/conditions-services/burn-center).   BCEN & Friends Podcast is presented by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing. We invite you to visit us online at https://bcen.org for additional information about emergency nursing certification, education, and much more.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Alice Benjamin. “Nurse Alice” Benjamin is a board-certified family nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, author, speaker, podcast host and a nurse pioneer on TV as a medical correspondent. Her experiences range from cardiovascular health, critical care, and emergency medicine involving patient care at some of the most prestigious and underserved hospitals. As a medical correspondent for NBC Los Angeles, she was the nation's most watched nurse on TV who kept millions of viewers up to date with daily reporting during the Covid crisis. Spanning her career, Nurse Alice has appeared on numerous national shows, networks and radio shows including GMA3, Dr. Oz, The Doctors, CNN, HLN, FOX News, News Nation, TVOne, BBC, just to name a few. She also hosts the Ask Nurse Alice Podcast which we will spend more time on in the episode. Her written health features have been published in Parent Magazine, Blavity, Huffington Post, EBONY, The American Nurse, Minority Nurse, and many more. She is also the Founder and Senior editor for AskNurseAlice.com, a trusted online health, wellness, and medical media outlet. Her mantra is she likes to talk to people before they become her patients. And when she talks, people listen. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Alice about her career in nursing, which has spanned from the bedside to the boardroom and national media outlets.   This episode is called “My Way to Becoming Nurse Alice.” Alice can be reached on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @AskNurseAlice or on her website at www.AskNurseAlice.com.  

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend George Olschewski. George Olschewski started out in healthcare as an EMT in 1993 and finished an English degree with a minor in journalism before going back for his nursing degree. Since 1998 George worked in the hospital from the intermediate and step down units to the ED at the Level One trauma center-University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey. It was there that George became a founding member of the Critical Care Transport Team at the trauma center. George continues to serve in both specialties of EMS and transport nursing at Hackensack University Medical Center’s specialty care transport unit and Angel Midflight’s aeromedical flight team. In addition to his CTRN, George holds the TCRN, CEN and TCRN certification along with his certification as a Nationally Registered Paramedic. Come along as Janie Schumaker, Michael Dexter, and Hollye Briggs talk with George about his career in transport nursing and recent nomination and selection for a BCEN award.  Come join in on this celebration conversation. This episode is called “Not all Heroes are in Comic Books: Spotlight on the 2023 Distinguished CTRN Award Winner.” George can be reached on LinkedIn @GeorgeOlschewski.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Jordan Tyczka. Jordan is currently the director of trauma services at Inova Loudoun Hospital, which is a Level III trauma center in Leesburg, VA. Since starting her nursing career in 2007, Jordan has worked in various Level I and Level II trauma centers along the east coast. She has obtained her master’s degree in nursing education and served as the clinical nurse educator for trauma services prior to her current role. During her time in the educator role, Jordan achieved her TCRN and helped 50 other nurse co-workers attain their TCRN certifications as well. Come along as Janie Schumaker, Michael Dexter, and Hollye Briggs talk with Jordan about her career in trauma nursing and recently being selected as the 2023 Distinguished Trauma Certified Registered Nurse. Come join in on this celebration conversation. This episode is called “No Escaping this Distinguished Nurse: Spotlight on 2023 Distinguished TCRN Award Winner.” Jordan can be reached on LinkedIn @JordanTyczka.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Kayleigh Summers. Kayleigh Summers is a licensed clinical social worker and private practice owner in Downingtown, PA. Kayleigh uses her training as a licensed therapist and her own experience as an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor to treat and support families experiencing perinatal trauma. Kayleigh has created thriving birth trauma support communities through Instagram and TikTok, as well as her podcast, where she provides connection, story sharing, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other trauma. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Kayleigh about her lived experiences and current passion for perinatal trauma. Kayleigh offers some great insight and advice during this meaningful conversation. This episode is called “Speak Now with the Birth Trauma Mama.” Kayleigh Summers can be reached on Instagram and TikTok @thebirthtrauma_mama and on her website: https://thebirthtraumamama.com/

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Kris Ramos. Kris Ramos is a master’s prepared registered nurse and paramedic with a broad base of critical care experience including ground and air ambulance prehospital care, adult and pediatric emergency departments, pediatric cardiovascular intensive care, PICU, NICU, hemodialysis, and leadership roles. He currently serves as the Base Hospital Coordinator at Phoenix Children’s. Kris’s daily focus is to improve prehospital care for children by bringing Phoenix Children’s expertise to emergency responders through continuing education, patient follow-up, and operations consultations. Kris is the founder and chair of the Phoenix Children's Annual EMS conference which provides prehospital providers with current pediatric trauma and emergency care continuing education. Kris also serves as vice chair of the Arizona Department of Health Services’ Pediatric Advisory Council for Emergency Services, a committee that plays a lead role within Arizona’s EMS and trauma community to improve pediatric care. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Kris about his career in prehospital medicine and nursing. Kris has been instrumental in moving the benchmarks for pediatric prehospital care and offering the most up-to-date continuing education. This episode is called “Walking the Line for quality pediatric prehospital care.” Kris Ramos can be reached via LinkedIn @Kris-Ramos and through the Phoenix Children’s EMS and Prehospital Care Conference website (ems.phoenixchildrens.org).  

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Sean Fox. Dr. Sean Fox is a Professor of Emergency Medicine and of Pediatrics as well as the Program Director of the Emergency Medicine Residency at Carolinas Medical Center. He works half his shifts in the Pediatric ED and the other half in the Adult ED. Since his time at the University of Maryland, when he served as a Chief Resident, Sean has been passionate about both clinical care and medical education. In 2014 he won the American College of Emergency Physicians’ (ACEP’s) National Emergency Medicine Faculty Teaching Award.  Currently, while he educates the next generation of Emergency Physicians in North Carolina, Sean has partnered with other educators across the U.S. to craft national educational courses and curriculum. Dr. Fox spends his spare time generating and managing several educational websites geared toward the practice of emergency medicine. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Sean about his career in emergency medicine where he specialized in both adult and pediatrics. Sean has some great morsels of advice and recommendations in this conversation. This episode is called “Inconceivable! From emergency medicine to podcast producer.” Sean Fox can be reached on Twitter and Instragram @PedEMMorsels and @EMGuidewire Dr. Fox’s website recommendations: www.pedemmorsels.com, www.emguidewire.com, www.cmcecg.com, www.mededmasters.com, www.cmcedmasters.com

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Carole Covey. Carole Covey has worked in various roles within healthcare over the past 15 years, ranging from ED to ICU, trauma to flight nursing, pre-hospital to administration and lots of in between. She has a passion for education, leadership and serving those in vulnerable populations. During 2020, Carole focused her efforts on emergency response and humanitarian aid services from Florida to California. She is currently the Medical Services Manager with AECOM, working on a large-scale project involving pediatric and adolescent care. Carole holds multiple certifications including the CEN and CFRN. She is also a student, working on a dual master’s degree program in nursing and business administration. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Carole about her journey in emergency nursing which has led her to her current role planning and organizing healthcare to meet the needs of a very vulnerable patient population-unaccompanied minors from the US borders.  This episode is called “Next thing you know: ED nursing to hospital contracts and design.” Carole Covey can be reached on LinkedIn @CaroleCovey & Facebook @Carole.A.Covey.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Travis McCall. Dr. Travis McCall obtained his MSN in 2013 from Vanderbilt University specializing in ED education and earned his Doctor of Philosophy in 2021 from the University of Tennessee College of Nursing with a graduate minor in Epidemiology in Public Health. His dissertation focused on secondary traumatic stress and promotion of nurse welfare. Travis has over 15 years of experience across the emergency spectrum from pre-hospital to his current roles as an Assistant Professor at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing and as a Flight Nurse Practitioner with Vanderbilt LifeFlight. Travis is passionate about advancing nurse welfare through education and the promotion of peer- and self-care, and his research on these topics have been published in the Journal of Emergency Nursing, the Journal of Trauma Nursing, and the Air Medical Journal. Come along as Janie Schumaker and Hollye Briggs talk with Travis about his career and research into compassion fatigue and secondary trauma. His motivation for change is certainly matched well by his compassion for those serving in healthcare with him. This episode is called “Digging into Research: growing compassion satisfaction.” Travis McCall can be found on Twitter @WTravisMcCall.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Caitlin Parker.. Caitlin Parker is a Certified Child Life Specialist at Atrium Health Levine Children's in Charlotte, NC. In her 13-year career at Levine's, she has worked in various roles across multiple service lines in pediatric and adult populations. She is driven by a passion for enhancing family nuclei coping and advocacy in the hospital setting that will carry over to better physical, emotional, and psychosocial outcomes for the trajectory of their health journey. Whether it is a child's first visit to the ED or their 30th admission, Caitlin believes in recognizing and impacting the momentous touchpoints during these visits, which will support the development and wellbeing of the whole family. These moments are where you will find Certified Child Life Specialist, like Caitlin, doing their best work. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Caitlin about her career as a Certified Child Life Specialist. Her compassion and insight are sure to uplift and make a lasting impact.   This episode is called “Living with Purpose as a Child Life Specialist.” Website resources recommended by Caitlin: Child Life Program | Levine Children's Hospital | Atrium Health Association of Child Life Professionals @Home (childlife.org) Caitlin Parker can be reached via email at: [email protected]

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Jonah Pregulman. Jonah has been a nurse since 2016, having initially obtained his BSN from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH. He earned his MSN from Capella University with a specialization in Informatics in 2020. Jonah specializes in emergency, flight, and critical care transport. Jonah has also achieved all 5 BCEN certifications. He is a Nationally Registered Paramedic with a variety of EMS experience spanning over 10 years in 911, IFT and special event EMS. His work history includes various exotic locations such as Guam, Hawaii, Antarctica, and other international locations.  Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Jonah about his career in flight nursing from the US to nearly every continent on the globe. Jonah has advice and insight packed and ready to go.  This episode is called “Where in the world is Jonah?”

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Jacob Miller. Jacob Miller is a Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Nationally Registered Paramedic with a background in flight, critical care transport, and emergency nursing, in addition to over 15 years of EMS practice. Jacob received his Master of Science in acute care from the University of Maryland, a post-master’s certificate in advanced flight nursing from Case Western Reserve University, and his Doctorate in Nursing Practice from the University of Cincinnati. Jacob currently works as a clinical educator and critical care transport clinician in Cincinnati, Ohio. Jacob holds multiple certifications including the CFRN and CTRN from BCEN. He is active in several professional organizations including serving as an at-large director on the Air & Surface Transport Nurses Association board of directors, chair of the Emergency Nurses Association’s advanced practice advisory council, and co-chair for the EMS Special Interest Group with the American Academy of Emergency Nurse Practitioners. One of Jacob’s recent accomplishments is being accepted as a Fellow in the Academy of Emergency Nursing. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Jacob about his career in flight nursing to his latest adventures in advanced practice and all things education. Jacob is serving up lots of advice and insight.   This episode is called, “Professionalism any way you slice it!” Jacob Miller can be reached through the following platforms: Website: www.JacobMillerACNP.com     Facebook/Twitter/LinkedIn - @JacobMillerACNP

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Steven Malarchick. Steven Malarchick began his career in prehospital care as an EMT-basic progressing to a Paramedic. His medic career included roles as the Regional EMS Coordinator for Colorado as well as offshore work on a deep-water drill ship and as public safety Director for the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. He became a nurse in 2003, starting in the emergency department and moving into flight. Steven continued his nursing education becoming a family nurse practitioner in 2021 and continues to fly as a flight NP. Steven enjoys teaching in all its forms: from online to classrooms, conference stages to podcasts. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Steven about his career in flight & nursing to becoming a living donor which had him in the patient role and gaining new perspectives. Steven is setting a new standard for giving back.   This episode is called, “Exponential Impact: From flight nursing to organ donation.” Steven Malarchick can be reached through the following platforms: Facebook/Instagram: @StevenMalarchick

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Sarah Wells Sarah Wells is a certified emergency nurse with her master’s in nursing. She is a national speaker, educator, and the founder of New Thing Nurse, an academic and professional coaching company for the nursing community. Sarah works with nurses and nursing students from around the United States to help them achieve their professional goals. Sarah has worked in various emergency departments over the past 11 years. She is passionate about nurse wellness and creating a more supportive nursing culture throughout healthcare. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Sarah about her career in nursing, from starting in the ED to paying it forward helping others succeed in their nursing journey. Sarah is sure to spark a flame for what’s next.   This episode is called,” Leveling Up with the New Thing Nurse.” Sarah Wells can be reached through the following platforms: Email: [email protected] Facebook/Instagram: @newthingnurse LinkedIn: Sarah K. Wells MSN RNS CEN CNL

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Hannah Pye. Hannah Pye is a certified emergency nurse working as full-time nursing faculty while pursuing her DNP degree. Hannah is passionate about breastfeeding success and believes emergency department nurses can play a key role in breastfeeding support. Her other professional interests include nursing student success, disaster preparedness and response, care seat safety, and of course, emergency medicine.  Hannah is married to an Army physician and has two daughters. She enjoys kayaking, hiking, and eating good food. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Hannah about her career in nursing, from working with nursing students to being a doctoral student herself. Hannah is sure to inspire you to take your shot when it comes to your passion in nursing.  This episode is called, “In the room where it happens: from passion to practice change.” For information on disaster preparedness as Hannah mentioned in this podcast, see the Center for Domestic Preparedness at https://cdp.dhs.gov/.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Bruce Hoffman. Bruce is a critical care registered nurse and paramedic whose clinical background includes the ICU, ER, trauma, cardiology and critical care transport/flight.  He holds graduate degrees in education and advanced practice. Bruce has spoken at multiple conferences and has a passion for education. He lives in CT with his wife, Stephanie (also a nurse) and three beautiful children – Ava Mae, Adelynn Lue and Jackson Lee, and Bella, their Boston Terrier. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Bruce about his career in nursing from pre-hospital to transport, and his passion for all things cardiac. Bruce is sure to create a thirst for knowledge during this conversation. This episode is called “Might as well Jump! into Education and Knowledge.” Bruce Hoffman can be reached on Twitter @BruceEHoffman.

This episode of BCEN and Friends lets you meet our friend Major Tiffany Welsh. Tiffany Welsh is a registered nurse in the United States Air Force Nurse Corp. Her primary nursing practice has been in Emergency and Trauma nursing for 18 years, and she has been on active duty for 10 years. Since coming on active duty, Major Welsh has served as a trauma nurse in military treatment facilities as well as become a member of the Critical Care Air Transport Teams.  She has 3 deployments and is currently a Deputy Director, as well as holding a teaching role, at the Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills in Omaha, Nebraska, specializing in the Principles of Biocontainment Care. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Major Welsh about her career in nursing from joining the US Air Force Nursing Corp, critical care transport and biocontainment. Thanks for joining us as we take this conversation up in the air and into the heart of military nursing. This episode is called Impacting Lives around the World through Military Transport.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Roger Casey. Roger has over 30 years of emergency and critical care nursing experience. He uses his experience by volunteering on the BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse Exam Construction Review Committee to provide evidence-based items to the emergency nursing certification. He serves currently on the Board of Directors for BCEN. Roger has also been a part of the Emergency Nurse's Association's Trauma Nursing Core Curriculum development and is a Fellow of the Academy of Emergency Nursing. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Roger about his passion for nursing and how volunteering and gratitude has shifted his outlook on the profession. Roger is sure to create a spark of gratitude during this conversation. This episode is called Gratitude: shifting from a job to a calling. Roger Casey can be reached on Facebook/LinkedIn @RogerCasey and Instagram/Twitter @Traumanator.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Heather Scruton. Heather is a transport nurse who graduated from the University of Kansas with her nursing degree in 1997 and went back for her master’s degree in nursing and business administration from the University of Mary in 2014. She has over 25 years of experience with high-risk obstetric patients. Heather currently serves as the Director of Outreach for the Critical Care Transport Team at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. Her transport team completes approximately 6000 transports a year, specializing in neonatal, pediatric, maternal and OB services. Heather has spoken nationally on the topics of fetal medicine, innovative program design and implementation, communication in health care and maternal fetal transport. She Is an advocate with the federal lawmakers, educating lawmakers on the topics of FMLA, the opioid epidemic response and rising national maternal mortality rates. Heather serves on the Kansas Maternal Mortality Review Board and the Legislative Coordinator for the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Heather about her passion for maternal/fetal transport and improving communication with each other. It’s going to be a wild conversational ride! This episode is called, “Maternal Health and OB Transport: Oh baby!” Heather Scruton can be reached through Facebook @HeatherScruton and on @ChildrensMercyOutreach-Education and Activities page.

In this podcast episode we want to introduce you to our BCEN Friend Steve Cumming. Steve Cumming has been in healthcare for over 30 years. He started his career in the US Navy and following honorable discharge, he obtained his nursing degree. His early nursing career was in the emergency and ICU setting, however after 15 years, Steve found his true passion: flight nursing. He advocates for lifelong learning and has spoken on the topics of leadership, critical care and education. Steve has been married for 20 years to in his words "An exceptional woman who is my rock-Karen" Together they have 4 beautiful kids and 3 amazing grandkids. When he's not flying or teaching, Steve enjoys the outdoors-camping, hiking and off-roading. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Steve about his career in nursing, from starting as a tech in the ICU to soaring into the clouds of flight nursing. Steve is up for the challenge whether it’s a critical patient or exploring the great outdoors. This episode is called, “Engineered for critical thinking and professional growth.” 

This episode of BCEN and Friends lets you meet our friend, Nancy Denke. Nancy is a Nurse Practitioner in Scottsdale, AZ.  She has lived & worked all over the United States. She grew up in New York and went to Penn State as an undergrad. Years later, she would return to school at the U. of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and earn her MSN as a Clinical Nurse Specialist and then return a year later to earn her FNP.  She worked as a NP in the ED until her husband’s job took them to Fort Collins, CO.  In 2005, her husband accepted a new position in the Phoenix area where landed a position as the 1st Trauma NP for the system, then transitioned after 8 years to a Neuro/Stroke position and now for the last 5 years is working in a small Toxicology practice in the Scottsdale, AZ area. Nancy also received her Acute care NP certificate from St. Louis U. and a DNP in Leadership Innovation at Arizona State University where she has been teaching in the DNP program from 2014. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Nancy about her nursing career which has led to her study of toxicology and a passion for collaboration with the patient care team. When it comes to solving the puzzle of “what did my patient get into?” Nancy is an expert in this field. This episode is called Talking Toxicology: a recipe for disaster.

This episode of BCEN and Friends lets you meet our friend Martha Roberts Martha Roberts is an Assistant Professor and lead of the Pediatrics department for Samuel Merritt School of Nursing in Sacramento, California. She is also an adult and pediatric nurse practitioner at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center in the emergency department. Martha is a host for the Center for Medical Education's EM Bootcamps, The 2 View Podcast, and teaches nationally. Additionally, she remains adjunct faculty for Georgetown University School of Nursing. Her specialty focuses on emergency and critical care populations. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Martha about her career in emergency medicine from her initial start in music & audio production to nursing into advanced practice nursing. Join the conversation discussing the ways Martha uses her skills, talents and passions to build one opportunity on top of another. This episode is called, Building Blocks of a Nursing Career. Martha Roberts can be followed on 2view.fireside.fm

This episode of BCEN and Friends lets you meet our friend Brandon Joines. Brandon Joines is an emergency nurse with over 18 years of experience including pre-hospital, flight and transport care. Brandon started his career as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-Basic) in early 2000’s and since then Brandon has obtained his Master’s in Nursing Education in 2020. Brandon currently works as a flight nurse for CareFlite in the Dallas/Fort Worth area of Texas. He also serves part-time as an adjunct nursing instructor for North Central Texas College. Brandon lives with his wife, Elizabeth, who in Brandon’s eyes is the greatest nurse he knows, along with their two children, Finley and Stella. During Brandon’s first year working as a nurse, his son Finley was diagnosed with Autism. This led Brandon to a new passion, helping to educate emergency professionals in practices to provide better care for patients on the autism spectrum during emergency situations. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Brandon about his journey in emergency services and nursing, leading up to his new passion on educating pre-hospital and hospital staff about best practices related to patients with autism. This episode is called, Flying the Flag for Autism Awareness. Brandon Joines can be reached on Instagram @BrandonJoines

This episode of BCEN and Friends lets you meet our friend Austin Johnson. Austin is a registered nurse born, raised, and living in Florida. He is a Critical Care Transport Nurse with AdventHealth Central Florida, one of the largest hospital systems in the country with an equally large fleet of ground and flight transport units. Austin holds all 5 BCEN credentials as well as 2 other specialty certifications and has been a mentor for the BCEN InstaCrew, helping spread the word about the importance of emergency nursing certification and continuing education. Austin has spoken at several conferences and loves sharing his passion for education and professional development with the nursing community. Austin believes that every nurse should have access to the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to do the best job they can and if he can help them find those, he will. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Austin about the topics of trauma, emergency, critical care and transport nursing. It’s a conversational ride along into certification and mentoring, and so much more. This episode is called, Transporting a Passion for Certification and Nursing. Austin Johnson can be reached on Instagram @AJinFlight  

This episode of BCEN and Friends lets you meet our friend Kristen Gilmore. Kristen obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2004 and in 2014 she graduated with her master’s degree in Nursing. Kristen’s career includes work as an ED nurse, clinical nurse manager, nursing supervisor, nurse manager, and clinical operations coordinator. Throughout her career, Kristen has been the recipient of multiple clinical and leadership awards, serving as a mentor to others. Her passion for education and mentorship led her to teaching for a local nursing program. Kristen in now the Inaugural Program Manager for Nurse Well-Being at Jefferson Northeast in Philadelphia. The newly established Institute for Nurse Well-Being is dedicated to transforming culture to ensure a positive nurse practice work environment. Outside of her day-to-day work, Kristen is the current President of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Pennsylvania ENA. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Kristen about her journey in emergency nursing leading up to her newest venture into Nurse Well-Being. It’s sure to be an encouraging conversation to our valued listeners. This episode is called, Blazing a Trail for Nurse Well-Being. Kristen Gilmore can be reached via email at [email protected] or on Instagram @KristenC1209  

This episode of BCEN and Friends lets you meet our friend Jamin Rankin. Jamin Rankin obtained a bachelor's degree in biology prior to pursuing nursing school. He has been a nurse since 2013, having worked in the emergency department, air transport, and now as a trauma program manager. Jamin’s nursing interests involve all things emergency, trauma, and critical care. In his role as a trauma program manager, Jamin oversees clinical, operational, and performance improvement processes for a newly verified trauma center in north Louisiana. Apart from nursing, Jamin enjoys spending time with his family as well as hunting, fishing, camping, and golfing. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Jamin about his journey in emergency and flight nursing to trauma center manager and everything in between. This episode is called, Defy Gravity: From Flight to Trauma Program Launch. Jamin Rankin can be reached on LinkedIn and Twitter.  

This episode of BCEN and Friends lets you meet our friend Barbara Weintraub. Barbara has been an ER nurse since 1985. After initially obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Northwestern in 1983, she completed her bachelor's degree in nursing in 1984. Barbara later obtained a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1991 and a Master’s in Nursing from Rush University in 1999. Barbara has one son, 32, who lives in Boston and is obtaining a PhD in computer cybersecurity. Barb says he’s the “smarty” in the family! Barb has three cats! Barbara has been very active in emergency nursing, having both presented and been published on a wide variety of topics, including pediatric emergency care and improving patient flow. She has also been an active member of the Emergency Nurses Association, having served in both state and national positions. Come along as Michael Dexter and Hollye Briggs talk with Barbara about her career journey – the past, present, and future of nursing as she sees it. This episode is called, A Heart for Nursing. Barbara Weintraub can be reached on LinkedIn and Facebook.