Prefer audio? Listen & subscribe on
In this episode of the Coffee Break Podcast, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Dr. Heidi Kosanke to explore one of the most critical, and often overlooked, issues in nursing today: how we prepare and support preceptors and students during the transition to practice.
Together, Renee and Heidi unpack what shifted in clinical education after the pandemic, why so many preceptors feel unprepared, and how this gap directly impacts new graduate confidence, communication, and retention. Heidi shares insights from her research and real-world experience, including how inadequate preceptor preparation can unintentionally contribute to stress, incivility, and unsafe learning environments.
This episode is especially valuable for nurse leaders, educators, academic partners, and anyone invested in creating stronger academic–practice partnerships and healthier transitions for new nurses.
About Dr. Heidi Kosanke
Dr. Heidi Kosanke, DNP, MSN/Ed, RN, is an Assistant Clinical Professor and Program Director at the University of Arizona College of Nursing. She has over 20 years of nursing experience and is passionate about preparing practice-ready nurses who can remain resilient in the face of challenges.
Heidi is the co-author of Building Social Resilience in Nursing, a workbook designed to help nursing students develop strong social support systems and positive coping skills. Her work focuses on improving the confidence, well-being, and self-efficacy of nurse preceptors so they can better support students and new graduate nurses during the transition to practice.
Email us to have your leadership question featured in an upcoming Q&A episode.
A leading authority on creating healthy work cultures by eliminating bullying and incivility in healthcare, with 31+ years of clinical and executive experience. One of only 30 nurses worldwide to earn the Certified Speaking Professional designation.
Never miss a Coffee Break. New episodes every week.
