AWHONN Insights Podcast

Drs. Lori Christ and Angela Lober delve into the complexities of caring for late preterm infants. They highlight what makes these babies unique and how early intervention and proper support from clinicians and parents can dramatically improve their health and development. Use this episode to learn about practical strategies, education points, and resources that can prepare you and your colleagues to care for and educate families with the best evidence-based care. A must listen for postpartum or NICU nurses caring for this population!

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In today’s nursing world—AI is no longer optional, but essential. Dr. Linda Burke reveals how nurses can harness AI as a powerful support tool without compromising their humanity or wisdom. This conversation centers on shaping the role of ethical, effective AI in your EMR, eagerly streamlining workflows, and better predicting conditions based on patient data trends. The nurse’s role is irreplaceable and deserves a seat at the table to train AI. Health care practitioners—tune in today!

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How do trauma-informed care and Respectful Maternity Care converge to strengthen readiness across maternity care settings? Our guest experts discuss where practice gaps persist and how new and revamped tools support more consistent, respectful, and trauma-responsive care throughout the perinatal continuum. Listeners will gain practical perspectives on aligning these complementary frameworks, strengthening clinical readiness, and fostering systems that prioritize dignity, autonomy, and psychological safety for birthing individuals.

Nursing Contact Hours: 1.0 nursing contact hours (NCPD activity available through 1/20/2029)

To receive contact hours for this continuing education activity, participants must:

Dr. Helen Hurst emphasizes the rising rates of syphilis in pregnant individuals and pinpoints the critical need for open, nonjudgmental conversation and education between clinicians and their patients. Use this episode as a guide to discuss sexual health, address myths, implement talk, test, treat at the point of entry to care, and collaborate with community partners to create campaigns that will improve the awareness and health of those in your surrounding zip codes.

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Dr. Nicole Rankins, a seasoned OB-GYN, shares her insights on empowering women during childbirth, particularly in hospital settings. Dr. Rankins discusses how evidence-based information can be shared by centering informed decision-making for patients. She emphasizes the critical role of L&D nurses in shaping patient outcomes and highlights the significance of collaboration between nurses and physicians. Dr. Rankins underscores the value of patient education and preparation and offers resources to support expectant families and healthcare providers.

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This collective of guests has all significantly contributed to the success of AWHONN’s Emerging Leaders Program. The discussion explores the program’s impact on leadership development and personal growth through its immersive education, strategic networking, and advocacy training. Listen and keep watching for the greatness of these nurse leaders.

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Dr. Noor Al-Shibli, a board-certified OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine fellow, shares how remarkable advancements in antiretroviral therapy have drastically reduced HIV transmission rates during pregnancy. Listen to discover the collaborative efforts of health care professionals and community advocates in supporting pregnant individuals living with HIV and learn about the evolving guidelines that empower shared decision-making in infant feeding. This is an inspiring conversation on breaking barriers and fostering hope in maternal health.

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Many nurses face barriers in advancing their careers due to limited access to structured professional development, leadership training, and mentorship opportunities. While clinical expertise is well-developed through practice, gaps remain in areas such as leadership skills, strategic decision-making, health care business knowledge, and professional networking. These gaps can limit opportunities for advancement into leadership, management, or specialized roles. Addressing this gap by providing targeted education, mentorship, and career development resources will empower nurses to expand their career trajectories, enhance job satisfaction, and contribute more effectively to improving patient outcomes and organizational growth.

Nursing Contact Hours Available

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is life-threatening, unpredictable, sudden, and complex. Miranda Klassen and Kayleigh Summers are two remarkable survivors and leading voices in AFE advocacy, education, and research. In this episode, they describe their life changing experiences, reflect on how AFE can impact nurses and other health care professionals, and share their mission driven work to heal. Immerse yourself in this episode in order to connect with the tools and resources you need to prepare for an AFE or to support survivors.

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Delve into the groundbreaking Neonatal Advanced Life Support (NALS) program, a collaborative effort between the American Red Cross and AWHONN. Experts Jonathan Epstein and Julie Bacon discuss the critical need for innovative education in neonatal resuscitation as well as how to bridge the gap and provide this evidence-based training in maternity care deserts. Learn how NALS differs from existing programs, what it offers health care professionals, and how you can bring it to your team.

Meet our guests:

Jonathan Epstein, MEMS, NRP

Jessica Irrobali, AWHONN Director of Collaborative Clinical Programs is joined by Drs. Carrie Eaton and Kendra Coles at the 2025 AWHONN Convention. They delve into the critical topic of POST-BIRTH Warning Signs sharing their experiences and research findings from a multi-site study across 17 states. Tune in and discover the challenges and triumphs of implementing the POST-BIRTH Warning Signs education in non-obstetric settings (e.g., EDs and critical access hospitals) and learn how these efforts are building interdisciplinary collaboration and empowering postpartum patients to advocate for their health.

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Laura Scalise, MSN, RN, a nurse manager, discusses the development and impact of programs “HeartSafe Motherhood” and “Healing at Home.” These programs were designed to leverage technology to improve patient care and engagement. The dialogue with AWHONN Insights highlights the challenges and successes achieved in implementing these programs, emphasizing the importance of patient feedback and continuous improvement.

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In anticipation of the first AWHONN Rural Health Summit, Mandy Pugh and Teresa Horak highlight the adaptability and innovation rural health nurses need to solve unique challenges. Tune in to this inspiring conversation on resilience to overcome obstacles, creativity in personalized care, and community relationship building, sprinkled with a couple of myth busters.

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Disparities in the NICU are a critical issue, with many families facing barriers to equitable, high-quality care and support during some of their most vulnerable moments. Jenné Johns from Once Upon a Preemie and Adriauna Davis from the Harmonie Grace Foundation are inspiring leaders who transformed their personal experiences into powerful advocacy and support for families. Listen to learn how your team can enhance patient and family-centered care in the NICU, improve health outcomes, and foster a more inclusive health care environment.

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Jenné

To continue our conversation from 2024, research professionals from the University of Alaska Anchorage share their insights on the evolving landscape of polysubstance use across the lifespan and its complex implications for health care. Tune in to learn evidence-based strategies for screening and how to provide patient-centered treatment through innovative methods. Empathy, education, and open dialogue can transform lives in your nursing practice and enhance patient care.

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Faith Ozer Green, MPH

Local Chapters are the heart of AWHONN member engagement. Listen to how three dedicated volunteers transformed into influential AWHONN Section Leaders. They welcomed mentorship and leveraged diverse networking opportunities that are also available for you. Be inspired to elevate your nursing career path and learn new resources that can give you and your statewide colleagues a boost.

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Two different paths into nursing brought Mandy Irby and Maggie Runyon to the same place. Listen as they discuss that nurses bring their psychological histories into the birth space and that most adults have experienced trauma at some point in their life. Open yourself to the vulnerability of connection with patients and accept that you’ve been complicit in obstetric violence in order to advocate to nurse leaders to change policies, serve as an active bystander, and make trauma-informed care the standard to improve health outcomes. 

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In this poignant episode of AWHONN Insights, Jose Perez shares the tragic story of the loss of his fiancé, Christine Fields. Pause as you listen to the details in order to identify the loopholes where a clinician or advocate could have intervened. Jose has now taken up the mantle to fight for respectful care, better parent preparation for childbirth, legislative changes including passage of the Grieving Families Act, and greater community support.

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Jose Perez

Since its inception in 2018, AWHONN on Capitol Hill has seen increasing attendance and engagement. This episode offers an in-depth exploration of the critical role nurses play in shaping health care legislation. It also highlights how AWHONN’s advocacy program is designed to empower nurses to share their personal experiences, illustrating how proposed bills impact their workplace, their health, and the lives of their patients.

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This rockstar team of nursing, medical, and legal experts kick off AWHONN Insights live in Phoenix, AZ. Nurses and providers at any career stage caring for pregnant, laboring, and postpartum people will learn more about your best defense for when litigation occurs. The time to improve your clinical practice is now.  

Support for the AWHONN Insights episode How Nurses Are Coping in the Current Climate was provided by Medela.

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The AWHONN Insights Content Advisory Board discusses the current challenges faced by nurses and how they’re coping. The conversation centers on self-care strategies, emotional coping, and the importance of support within the nursing profession. The group explores ways to nurture creativity and resilience amid the constantly evolving and demanding landscape of obstetrics and women’s health.

Support for the AWHONN Insights episode How Nurses Are Coping in the Current Climate was provided by Medela.

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How well do you know the anesthesia providers’ critical role in caring for OB patients? This conversation delves into the importance of open communication and collaboration through teamwork. Our guests discuss how to best prepare for emergencies, centering the birthing person’s emotional needs, environment cues, and assessment of blood volume and hydration status.

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In its first ever special issue, three JOGNN guest editors focus on women’s mental health and the critical junctures that have lasting outcomes across the life course. Listen as they discuss screening guidelines, tailored interventions, community-based support, and innovative ways health care experts can partner with legislators to promote evidence-based policies.

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Two powerful advocates share their personal journeys into lactation consulting and discuss the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ families. Join us as we discuss the significance of human milk for infants and provide insights on how health care professionals can support diverse families. We also address stigma and bias in the health care setting and offer resources for nurses to become better allies.

Meet our guests:

Jacob Engelsman, IBCLC

Quality improvement science in perinatal care can address the preventable morbidity and mortality disparity affecting racial and ethnic minorities. Leaders from the Institute for Perinatal Quality Improvement describe how and why they designed SPEAK UP to dismantle racism in health care. Listen to explore the collective responsibility of nurses and health care professionals to implement change and improve outcomes for all birthing individuals.

Meet our guests:

Debra Bingham, DrPH, RN, FAAN 

Hear Tammy Toney Butler’s harrowing journey out of being sex trafficked as a child. Learn the importance of understanding adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the effects of intergenerational trauma. Receive guidance and resources for health care professionals on self-care, compassion, trust, and how to listen survivors.

Warning: This content may be distressing or triggering, especially for survivors of abuse and trauma.

Meet our guests:

Hear Tammy Toney Butler’s harrowing journey out of being sex trafficked as a child. Learn the importance of understanding adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the effects of intergenerational trauma. Receive guidance and resources for health care professionals on self-care, compassion, trust, and how to listen survivors. 

Warning: This content may be distressing or triggering, especially for survivors of abuse and trauma.  

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This conversation explores the unique experiences of male nurses in maternal health, highlighting their personal journeys, the challenges they face, and the rewarding aspects of their careers. Our roundtable of guests share insights on how they engage with families during the birthing process and the importance of inclusivity in nursing. Listen closely to learn about the power of mentorship that helped these nurses excel and how they collaborate and network through professional associations to build community and support among nurses.

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Explore the opportunities available for nursing students through UNCF and HBCUs and discover how increasing diversity among nurse scientists can transform health care. Our guests discuss the importance of outreach, mentorship, and community support in nursing education, as well as strategies for building connections with funders. Tune in for insights into how you can get involved in supporting the next generation of nursing professionals.

Meet our guests:

Explore the opportunities available for nursing students through UNCF and HBCUs and discover how increasing diversity among nurse scientists can transform health care. Our guests discuss the importance of outreach, mentorship, and community support in nursing education, as well as strategies for building connections with funders. Tune in for insights into how you can get involved in supporting the next generation of nursing professionals.

Meet our guests:

Allyssa L. Harris RN, PhD, WHNP-BC, FNAP, FADNL

In August 2024, Dr. Kandis McLean partnered with Avion Drayton-Bailey and the Trinidad and Tobago National Nursing Association to led a team of U.S. nurses to Trinidad and Tobago to teach AWHONN’s Obstetric Patient Safety Program. Learn about their motivation, preparation, cultural adaptations, and team dynamics, especially if you’d like to take your nursing skills abroad. This episode highlights the importance of global collaboration in maternal health with the shared goal of reducing maternal mortality rates.

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In August 2024, Dr. Kandis McLean partnered with Avion Drayton-Bailey and the Trinidad and Tobago National Nursing Association to led a team of U.S. nurses to Trinidad and Tobago to teach AWHONN’s Obstetric Patient Safety Program. Learn about their motivation, preparation, cultural adaptations, and team dynamics, especially if you’d like to take your nursing skills abroad. This episode highlights the importance of global collaboration in maternal health with the shared goal of reducing maternal mortality rates.

Meet our guests:

Avion Drayton-Bailey, B.Sc.N. Admin; RN; RPN 

Our conversation with Dr. Francine Bono-Neri delves into the global crisis of human trafficking as she shares her journey into the anti-trafficking movement. She discusses how health care professionals can identify and support survivors, the psychological manipulation involved in trafficking, and the need for trauma-informed care. This episode also details the impact of digital technology on child safety and encourages listeners to get involved in the anti-trafficking movement.

Warning: Some of this content may be distressing or triggering, especially for survivors of abuse and trauma. Please prioritize your well-being.

Meet our guests:

Our conversation with Dr. Francine Bono-Neri delves into the global crisis of human trafficking as she shares her journey into the anti-trafficking movement. She discusses how health care professionals can identify and support survivors, the psychological manipulation involved in trafficking, and the need for trauma-informed care. This episode also details the impact of digital technology on child safety and encourages listeners to get involved in the anti-trafficking movement.

Warning: Some of this content may be distressing or triggering, especially for survivors of abuse and trauma. Please prioritize your well-being.

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Nurses who work closely with patients going through a traumatic experience often witness events that can lead to emotional distress and/or PTSD. This episode centers pathways to healing from secondary or vicarious trauma. Our guests Krysta Dancy and Dr. Ashley Winch discuss how to recognize and get help.

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Nurses who work closely with patients going through a traumatic experience often witness events that can lead to emotional distress and/or PTSD. This episode centers pathways to healing from secondary or vicarious trauma. Our guests Krysta Dancy and Dr. Ashley Winch discuss how to recognize and get help.

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Krysta Dancy, MA, MFT, CBD(CBI), Certified Provider Educator

In recognition of National Diaper Need Awareness Week and the start of a new school year, we discuss the nationwide issues of diaper need and period poverty. Dr. Tabitha Poole and Lacey Gero are passionate about these issues and share the stats and resources from the National Diaper Bank Network and the advocacy on basic needs informed care. Listen to find out how you can be a changemaker in this space.

Meet our guests:

In recognition of National Diaper Need Awareness Week and the start of a new school year, we discuss the nationwide issues of diaper need and period poverty. Dr. Tabitha Poole and Lacey Gero are passionate about these issues and share the stats and resources from the National Diaper Bank Network and the advocacy on basic needs informed care. Listen to find out how you can be a changemaker in this space.

Meet our guests:

Tabitha Poole, DNP, RNC-OB, C-EFM

Join us as we talk to Angie and Kate, two nurses who became maternal health advocates after surviving their own harrowing birth-related complications. You’ll learn what it’s like to sometimes know too much, how peer support for birth trauma survivors can impact recovery, and what nurses can do to save lives.

Meet our guests:

Join us as we talk to Angie and Kate, two nurses who became maternal health advocates after surviving their own harrowing birth-related complications. You’ll learn what it’s like to sometimes know too much, how peer support for birth trauma survivors can impact recovery, and what nurses can do to save lives.

Meet our guests:

Kate McMeekin, WHNP-BC