In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Isaacs, BCEN’s 2026 Distinguished CEN, for a thoughtful conversation about lifelong learning, service, and the lasting impact of investing in others.

Michael Isaacs started out more than 30 years ago as a New York EMT, served as an Army Medic, and then chased his calling straight into the ER. Since day one, he’s been the kind of nurse who lifts everyone around him—teaching ACLS, CEN, ENPC, ENTEP and more—while still pushing himself as a lifelong learner working toward his fifth degree, a Doctor of Nursing Education from The Ohio State University. Today, Mike serves as the Nursing Professional Development Specialist for Emergency Services in central California, shaping the next generation of emergency nurses. When he’s not doing that, you’ll find him volunteering on medical teams at local sporting events, building LEGO as a proud Adult Fan Of Legos, staying active in his church, or hanging out with his wife and their rescue pup, Sadie. Mike was also recently honored as BCEN’s 2026 Distinguished CEN.

Drawing from more than 30 years in emergency medicine, Michael shares how curiosity, certification, and a commitment to continuous learning have guided his journey, while offering insights into what meaningful education looks like for today’s nurses. Through stories of perseverance, purpose, and professional growth, Michael reminds us that knowledge is most powerful when it is shared in service of others. This episode is titled, “A Heart for Learning and a Soul to Serve.”

Michael can be contacted on LinkedIn @MichaelIsaacs

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