In this episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, I sit down with Nicole Johnson, a nurse turned entrepreneur who’s tackling one of the biggest challenges in healthcare today—burnout. Nicole opens up about her personal journey from working in critical care leadership to making the difficult decision to walk away and build something entirely new. What she’s created is not just a business, but a powerful movement designed to help nurses reconnect with themselves and rediscover balance.

We dive into the realities of burnout in the nursing profession, why it’s not simply an individual issue, and what needs to change at both the personal and organizational level. Nicole also shares how her global retreats are helping nurses step away, reset, and return with a renewed sense of purpose. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next move, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective on what’s possible.

Episode Highlights

• The moment Nicole realized she could no longer stay in her leadership role—and what pushed her to finally make the leap

• Why burnout in nursing is a systemic issue, not a personal failure

• My own reflections on career transitions and how following creative instincts can open unexpected doors

• How Nicole built Unwound Retreats and why global experiences play a key role in healing and reflection

• The structure of her retreats, blending continuing education with self-care practices like meditation, yoga, and journaling

• Real stories of transformation from retreat participants and the ripple effect it’s creating in healthcare

• Practical strategies for addressing burnout, including the role of workplace standards and support systems

Links & Resources

• Unwound Retreats (Nicole’s retreat programs for nurses)

• American Association of Critical Care Nurses – Healthy Work Environment Standards

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the show, leave a rating and review, and share it with someone who could use a fresh perspective on burnout and career transitions.