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In this episode of the Coffee Break, Dr. Renee Thompson sits down with Luanne Smedley, Executive Director and Associate Chief Nursing Officer at Stanford Children’s Health. Luanne is a true soul sister in the fight against workplace bullying and incivility.
After a work stoppage and years of strained relationships in the NICU, Luanne led a powerful, interprofessional culture reset, starting with leadership and expanding to the entire team. What began as tough conversations among leaders turned into a structured, monthly opportunity for nurses, NPs, and physicians to talk, listen, and heal together.
What’s the result? Dramatic improvements in communication, trust, sick time, incident reports, vacancy, and turnover. This episode is packed with lessons for any leader ready to turn the tide on workplace dysfunction.
Luanne is a results-driven nurse leader with a long history of success in academic medical centers. She currently serves as the Executive Director and Associate CNO at the Johnson Center for Pregnancy & Newborn Services. With a BSN and an MHA, Luanne brings clinical depth and strategic leadership to every role she takes on.
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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.
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