[0:00 – 0:15] Kimberly:
Hello everyone. I'm so excited to have as our guest today Dr. Joy White. She is the vice president and chief nursing officer and operations executive for Legacy Health Good Samaritan Medical Center. Welcome Dr. White.

[0:16 – 0:20] Joy:
Thank you so much. I'm so delighted to be here with you this morning.

[0:21 – 0:32] Kimberly:
Outstanding. Well I have just a few questions for you. We're going to launch right in because we want everybody to be able to really optimize the information that you provide. So are you ready to go?

[0:32 – 0:33] Joy:
Let's go.

[0:33 – 0:44] Kimberly:
Every leader has a journey that brings them to where they are. Can you share yours and what experiences or challenges shaped your path?

[0:44 – 2:32] Joy:
Oh wow, what a great question and a heavy one to start. I was a single mom of two and starting life and my career over as a divorcee. My oldest son was born with Tetralogy of Fallot, and the nurses were extraordinary in creating space for me as a terrified mom. That inspired me to pursue nursing. I completed my diploma nursing program, then my bachelor's, master's, advanced practice, and doctorate in nursing practice. My journey included challenges like balancing family, being an adult learner, and wanting to leave a mark on the profession. But the passion to transform healthcare kept me moving forward.

[2:32 – 2:45] Kimberly:
As you look back, what is a pivotal moment in your career that truly defined your leadership?

[2:46 – 4:15] Joy:
As I moved from bedside to leadership, one leader, Deanne Seekins, changed everything for me. I approached her early in my career unsure if the position was right for me. She told me, “The reason we hired you is because we saw you as someone who could change things.” That moment defined me—I realized I was the change they were looking for, and from that day forward, I embraced that responsibility.

[4:16 – 4:47] Kimberly:
Love it. Recognizing that you are the change.

[4:48 – 6:21] Kimberly:
Leadership can be isolating. How have you navigated this, and what strategies help you stay connected and grounded?

[4:48 – 6:21] Joy:
Professional organizations have been key—they connect you with like-minded peers facing similar challenges. Staying connected to the work itself is critical: meeting regularly with your leaders, rounding with teams, and interacting with patients helps maintain perspective, avoid isolation, and stay grounded in your purpose.

[6:21 – 6:36] Kimberly:
When you stay connected, you can feel when the disconnection starts happening.

[6:37 – 8:20] Kimberly:
If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their nursing career, what would it be?

[6:37 – 8:20] Joy:
Remember why you started. Your passion and purpose will guide you through tough days. Also, keep your eyes open for opportunities, take stretch assignments, and lean into experiences outside your comfort zone. You’ll discover both what you’re good at and what ignites your passion.

[8:22 – 8:44] Kimberly:
Oh, that is outstanding. Thank you, Dr. White, for sharing your expertise and experience. Emerging and established nurse leaders alike will gain tremendous value from your insights.

[8:44 – 8:46] Joy:
Absolutely. Thanks for having me.