Voices For Nurses: A Podcast for Michigan Nurses by ANA-Michigan Nurses

The One About Leading Through Advocacy

In today’s episode, our host, Wanda Chukwu, DNP, MSN, MA, CNEcl, RN, sits down with ANA Michigan Advocacy Committee Chair, Mindi Johnson, DNP, RN, AGCNS-BC, CPEN, PEDS-BC, NE-BC and Government Affairs Consultant, Evelyn (Evie) Zois Sweeney. In this episode, we’ll dive into why every nurse’s voice matters. We explore how nurses influence healthcare policy and drive meaningful change in practice. Our discussion breaks down the role of nursing lobbyists and ANA committee members, current legislative issues affecting nursing and patient outcomes, and practical advocacy strategies nurses can use to impact decision-making. We also examinehow policy shapes workforce wellbeing, staffing ratios, and patient safety. Join us as our guests, Mindi and Evie, share their experiences, insights, and the power of nurse-led advocacy.

The One About Transforming Healthcare Through Nursing Leadership

Today, our host, Wanda Chukwu, DNP, MSN, MA, CNEcl, RN, sits down with Julie Ishak, RN, MSN, NP-C, CENP, Chief Nurse Executive at the University of Michigan Health, to have a meaningful talk about transforming healthcare through nursing leadership. In this episode, they discuss the challenges of today's "fiscal storm" and the crucial role of transparent, collaborative leadership. They also dive into innovative care models, the importance of interdisciplinary teams, and how leaders can foster a sense of belonging to support and retain nurses, ultimately strengthening the entire healthcare system.

The One About Thriving Through Self-Care

Today our host Wanda Chukwu, DNP, MSN, MA, CNEcl, RN sits down with ANA-Michigan Board Member, Nadine Wodwaski, DNP, MSN-ed, ACNS, RN and Denise Ervin, DNP, RN, NC-BC,  to have an honest and eye-opening discussion about what self-care really means for nurses. They dive into emotional intelligence, setting boundaries, and how nurses can advocate for themselves.

The One About Nursing Care In Our Communities

Today our host Wanda Chukwu, DNP, MSN, MA, CNEcl, RN sits down with ANA-Michigan Board Member, Joseph Current, MSN/Ed, RN, SWOC, IP and Sarah Jennings, DNP, MPA, RN, NEA-BC,  to have a meaningful talk about how nursing care in our communities plays a crucial role in promoting health and well-being by providing compassionate, personalized care while fostering a strong sense of trust and collaboration between nurses and the individuals they serve.

The One About Mentoring Relationships

Today our host Wanda Chukwu, DNP, MSN, MA, CNEcl, RN sits down with our ANA-Michigan President, Barbara Medvec, DNP, MSA, MSN, NEA-BC and Kathleen Poindexter, PhD, RN, CNE, ANEF, FAAN, Associate Professor and Assistant Dean of the Undergraduate Program and Faculty Development at MSU College of Nursing,  to have an eye-opening discussion about fostering mentoring relationships in nursing and how that benefits both the mentors and mentees.