EP 88: Healing a Fractured Culture – How One NICU Transformed Its Team Through Honest Conversations

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.