What does it take to lead nursing at the executive level while navigating workforce shortages, financial pressures, and an evolving healthcare landscape?

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Leah Gehri, Chief Nursing Officer at Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center, to discuss her journey from bedside nurse to executive leadership. Leah shares why solving system-level challenges became her mission, how investing in nurses is one of the most effective cost-containment strategies, and why healthcare organizations and academic institutions must work together to strengthen the future nursing workforce.

The conversation also explores legislative advocacy, nurse retention, leadership development, and the advice Leah would give to every nurse beginning their career: don't be afraid to ask questions, explore new opportunities, and embrace lifelong learning.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why nurse retention is a strategic investment—not just an HR initiative
• How healthcare systems and academic institutions can strengthen the nursing pipeline
• The leadership strategies that balance workforce investment, innovation, and financial stewardship
• Why nurses need a stronger voice in legislative and policy decisions
• Practical advice for emerging nurse leaders looking to grow their careers

Whether you're an aspiring nurse leader, seasoned executive, educator, or healthcare professional, this episode offers practical leadership insights for shaping the future of nursing.

In this episode of Pulse Check, Dr. Kimberly Long sits down with Dr. Heather Resseger, Senior Vice President, Chief Hospital Operations Officer, and Chief Nursing Officer at NorthBay Health, to explore the evolving role of nurse leaders in shaping the future of healthcare.

Heather shares her leadership journey from bedside nursing to the executive suite and reflects on the experiences that broadened her perspective beyond nursing operations. Together, they discuss the critical importance of strengthening partnerships between healthcare systems and academic institutions, creating sustainable workforce strategies, and expanding opportunities for students in community and rural healthcare settings.

The conversation also dives into the role nurse leaders play in influencing healthcare policy and legislation, highlighting why every leader must use their voice to advocate for patients, healthcare teams, and the future of the profession.

Whether you're an aspiring nurse leader, seasoned executive, educator, or healthcare professional, this episode offers valuable insights on leadership growth, advocacy, and paying it forward.

In this episode of Pulse Check with Dr. Kimberly Long, Dr. Long sits down with Debra A. Flores, a seasoned healthcare executive and nurse leader with more than four decades of leadership experience across complex health systems.

Debra shares the defining moments that shaped her leadership journey - from early mentors who recognized her potential, to navigating personal loss, leading through the challenges of COVID-19, and embracing career opportunities far outside her comfort zone.

Together, they explore the critical need for stronger partnerships between academic institutions and healthcare organizations, discussing how earlier exposure, meaningful internships, and strategic collaboration can better prepare future nurses for the realities of healthcare.

Debra also offers valuable insights on how nurse leaders can become more effective advocates by engaging proactively with legislators and policymakers to influence the future of healthcare delivery.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that authentic leadership is built through resilience, lifelong learning, and a commitment to serving others.

Topics discussed include:

• Defining moments in executive leadership
• Leading through personal and professional adversity
• Strengthening academic and clinical partnerships
• Preparing the next generation of nurse leaders
• Influencing healthcare policy and legislation
• The importance of mentorship, growth, and lifelong learning