Episodios

  • A $20M Wake-Up Call:The Landmark DonQuenick Joppy Case, Racism, Retaliation, and the Future of Nursing

    A $20M Wake-Up Call:The Landmark DonQuenick Joppy Case, Racism, Retaliation, and the Future of Nursing
    Oct 2 2025
    In this eye-opening episode of The Gritty Nurse Podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley and special guest Jerry Soucy unpack the landmark case of DonQuenick Yvonne Joppy, the ICU nurse who courageously challenged racial discrimination, wrongful termination, and retaliation in healthcare. Recently, a federal jury awarded $20 million to Joppy after finding that Aurora Medical Center (Colorado) had retaliated against her and discriminated against her because she spoke up. During her employment, she was wrongfully accused of causing a patient’s death (charges later dropped) and faced a hostile work environment, unequal workloads, disciplinary scrutiny, and barriers to promotion. In this conversation, Amie and Jerry: Trace the legal journey of Joppy’s case and the jury verdict Explore systemic racism and retaliation in nursing Expose how hospital culture perpetuates bullying and silencing Center the voices of nurses of color who often suffer in silence Propose strategies for advocacy, accountability, and cultural transformation in healthcare This is an essential listen for nurses, leaders, administrators, and all who believe in a just, equitable healthcare system. 🔍 Key Takeaways & Themes $20M verdict marks a turning point — Joppy’s win is a powerful statement that institutions can be held accountable and that speaking up matters. Systemic racism in healthcare is real — This case spotlights how discrimination is not isolated but woven into policy, discipline, and culture. Retaliation silences and damages — Nurses risk their careers when challenging injustice; legal protections must be stronger. Hospital culture enables harm — Toxic leadership, favoritism, and lack of oversight perpetuate harassment and inequality. Advocacy is a lifeline — Collective action, legal recourse, and peer support are vital for nurses of color. Leadership must evolve — Diversity, inclusion, and transparent accountability should no longer be optional. Training, education, and alliances matter — Nurses, managers, and boards need cultural competence, allyship, and courage to confront bias. Grassroots movements drive change — From unions to nursing networks, bottom-up pressure forces institutions to transform. Beyond patient care: moral injury & ethics — Discrimination and retaliation injure nurses’ spirit, agency, and integrity. Vision for a new nursing culture — One rooted in justice, mutual respect, courageous voices, and systemic repair. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healthcare Injustice 04:34 The Case of DonQuenick Joppy 12:57 The Role of Nursing Culture 15:56 The Patient That Needed to be Admitted Had Advanced Directives 19:14 The family wants to redirect care: EOL 20:27 Rapidly Evolving Situation 21:20 Making Something out of Nothing: Mean Girls of Nursing 22:55 Termination and Court Proceeding 23:47 Legal Proceedings and Outcomes 25:33 The Illusion of Quality in Healthcare: Magnet Hospitals and Daisy Awards 26:47 Racism and Bullying in Nursing 28:27 Profession Rotten to the Core 29:25 Legal Battles and the Fight for Justice 32:34 The Duality of Nursing: Care vs. Compliance 35:31 Rating Performance without nurses knowledge: The ESL 39:07 The Verdict: A Step Towards Accountability 41:15 The Ongoing Struggle Against Racism in Healthcare 42:47 Dealing with Racism in Nursing 48:00 The Future of Nursing: A Call for Change Resources https://www.denverpost.com/2022/05/04/donquenick-joppy-lawsuit-medical-center-aurora/ The recent verdict https://www.denverpost.com/2025/08/20/donquenick-joppy-verdict-hca-healthone/ Link to website with 7 short videos and source material regarding the case and context https://www.antiracismnursing.org/ Related links ANA racism in nursing https://www.nursingworld.org/practice-policy/workforce/racism-in-nursing/ Magnet(tm) https://www.nursingworld.org/organizational-programs/magnet/ Daisy https://www.daisyfoundation.org/
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    56 m
  • U.S. Healthcare Reform or Disaster? Breaking Down RFK Jr.’s “Big Beautiful Bill"

    U.S. Healthcare Reform or Disaster? Breaking Down RFK Jr.’s “Big Beautiful Bill"
    Sep 25 2025
    In this hard-hitting episode of The Gritty Nurse Podcast with Amie Archibald-Varley, we dive deep into the controversial healthcare proposal dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill”—a sweeping plan backed by RFK Jr. that claims to overhaul the US healthcare system. But what’s really behind this policy? And who stands to lose the most? Joined by Dr. Kaveh Hoda, gastroenterologist, podcaster, and advocate, we explore: The background and political motivations behind RFK Jr.’s healthcare agenda The devastating consequences of Medicaid cuts on low-income Americans, seniors, and people with disabilities How privatization and deregulation threaten the core of public healthcare Why Canadian listeners should view this as a cautionary tale—what’s happening in the US could be a warning sign for Canada’s own healthcare system 💡 From rising inequity to the erosion of public trust, this episode is a must-listen for healthcare workers, policymakers, and citizens on both sides of the border. If you value accessible, fair public healthcare or are curious about how U.S. health policy debates can inform what's happening (or could happen) in Canada, this episode is essential listening. Let us know your thoughts: share, review, and talk back. 👉 Don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and leave a review to support the show! 📢 Listen now and stay informed. Your healthcare depends on it. Listen on Apple Podcasts – The Gritty Nurse Podcast: The Gritty Nurse Podcast on Apple Apple Podcasts Watch on YouTube – The Gritty Nurse Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thegrittynursepodcast #RFKJr #BigBeautifulBill #USHealthcare #MedicaidCuts #HealthcarePolicy #HealthEquity #GrittyNursePodcast #DrKavehHoda #CanadianHealthcare #HealthcareAdvocacy #PublicHealth #NursingPodcast #USPolitics About House of Pod by Dr. Kaveh Hoda House of Pod is hosted by Kaveh MD: a science‑/medical‐adjacent podcast that often combines deep health policy discussions with critical commentary. Apple Podcasts+2Metacast: podcast app with transcripts+2 You can listen to House of Pod on Apple Podcasts: The House of Pod on Apple Apple Podcasts+1 Also available through other platforms such as Acast, SoundCloud, Castbox, etc. Dr. Kaveh Hoda Social Media X: https://x.com/thehouseofpod Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/kavehmd.bsky.social IG: https://www.instagram.com/thehouseofpod/ Email: hopquestions@gmail.com Takeaways Healthcare is inherently political and affects everyone. The 'Big Beautiful Bill' poses significant risks to Medicaid. Cuts to healthcare will disproportionately affect low-income individuals. Communication is crucial in addressing healthcare issues. Community engagement is essential for effective healthcare advocacy. Misinformation in healthcare is a growing concern. Compassionate conversations can bridge political divides. Healthcare professionals must hold politicians accountable. The future of healthcare requires inclusive dialogue. Canada should learn from the U.S. healthcare challenges. Keywords healthcare, politics, Medicaid, big beautiful bill, Kaveh Hoda, The Gritty Nurse, healthcare access, socioeconomic factors, misinformation, community engagement Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healthcare Politics 07:44 The Big Beautiful Bill: Overview and Implications 15:20 Understanding the Impact on Healthcare Access 19:28 Patriotism vs Nationalism 22:45 Moderate Voices in a Polarized Landscape 26:40 The Role of Healthcare Professionals 29:43 Combating Misinformation in Healthcare 32:47 Accountability in Politics 35:23 The Cautionary Tale for Canada Resources https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/07/03/opinion/domestic-policy-bill-in-charts.html https://www.statista.com/chart/34728/public-view-of-trumps-tax-and-domestic-policy-bill/?srsltid=AfmBOorbA8KxFjHm8B1cLgFP9FrR8yzICKMGrwzJxRbwiuPzkAa8I6H6 https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1 https://globalnews.ca/news/11273459/trump-big-beautiful-bill-details-explained/ https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/07/big-beautiful-bill-trump-deaths/683385/ https://www.msnbc.com/opinion/msnbc-opinion/big-beautiful-bill-trump-america-great-power-medicaid-rcna216034 https://theconversation.com/how-the-big-beautiful-bill-will-deepen-the-racial-wealth-gap-a-law-scholar-explains-how-it-reduces-poor-families-ability-to-afford-food-and-health-care-260680
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    38 m
  • Is Nursing a Profession Worth Dying For? No, it's Not...

    Is Nursing a Profession Worth Dying For? No, it's Not...
    Sep 18 2025
    Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions on suidcide. In this episode, The Gritty Nurse, Amie Archibald-Varley discusses the tragic story of Roseanne, a nurse who died by suicide, highlighting critical issues in mental health staffing, accountability in healthcare, and the need for systemic change. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs of suicide and supporting colleagues in the nursing profession. Through personal anecdotes and advocacy for better mental health care, the episode calls for a shift in how the healthcare system addresses these pressing issues. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in North America for 24/7, free, and confidential support, or dial 911 for life-threatening emergencies. You can also find local resources through the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or doctor for help. https://988.ca/ (Canada) https://988lifeline.org/ (USA) Chapters 00:00 Intro and Amie's Story 07:35 Critical Issues in Mental Health In Healthcare 17:25 Rosanne's Story: Accountability in Healthcare: Who is Responsible? 23:04 Vital Signs: Changing the Narrative on Mental Health 39:03 A Call to Action: Resources and Support for Nurses Takeaways The story of a nurse's suicide highlights systemic failures. Understaffing in mental health units is a critical issue. Nurses should never work alone in high-risk situations. Violence against nurses is often normalized and overlooked. Accountability in healthcare organizations is lacking. Mental health care must prioritize safety and support for nurses. Suicide prevention requires a cultural shift in healthcare. Vulnerability among healthcare providers can foster connection. Recognizing warning signs of suicide is essential for support. The 988 hotline is a vital resource for those in crisis. Episode Links https://globalnews.ca/news/11110293/bc-nurse-dies-by-suicide-attacks-on-the-job/ https://www.clarksfuneral.ca/obituaries/Rosanne-Wallace?obId=40163864 Donations To Honor Rosanne's Memory: GoFundMe https://gofund.me/7dbdf031. Sarah (Sarita Warren) https://sarahewarren.com Don't Clock Out https://www.dontclockout.org Keywords nurse suicide, mental health, healthcare accountability, staffing issues, violence in nursing, suicide prevention, healthcare reform, nurse support, mental health advocacy, healthcare workers
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    41 m
  • Embracing Change in Nursing: The Gritty Nurse is Back

    Embracing Change in Nursing: The Gritty Nurse is Back
    Sep 4 2025

    In this episode of The Gritty Nurse podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley (The Gritty Nurse) and Matt Shepherd, RN discuss the importance of embracing change and personal growth in the nursing profession. They emphasize the need for self-compassion among healthcare professionals, particularly in light of the challenges they face, including burnout and violence in the workplace. The conversation highlights the significance of addressing these issues openly and honestly, while also celebrating the positive changes and opportunities that lie ahead. The podcast serves as a platform for real talk about the realities of nursing and the grit required to navigate the profession.

    Keywords

    nursing, self-compassion, healthcare, burnout, personal growth, podcast, violence in nursing, grit, change, mental health

    Takeaways

    We need to be gentle with ourselves in healthcare.
    It's okay to celebrate change and new beginnings.
    Nurses often forget to give themselves grace.
    Burnout and violence in nursing are real issues.
    Racism and bullying in nursing need to be addressed.
    The Gritty Nurse podcast offers real talk about nursing.
    Self-compassion is crucial for healthcare professionals.
    Change is a part of life, and we should embrace it.
    Nurses play various roles in advocacy and community work.
    The podcast aims to provide supplemental education for nurses.

    Chapters

    00:00 Embracing Change and Personal Growth
    03:01 The Importance of Self-Compassion in Healthcare
    05:54 Addressing Challenges in Nursing
    08:56 The Gritty Nurse Podcast: A Platform for Real Talk

    Thank you to our collaborate partner, Hospital News for supporting the work of The Gritty Nurse.

    Order the #1 National Best Selling Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! Leave me a review on Amazon! https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443468718/the-wisdom-of-nurses/

    Connect With The Gritty Nurse https://www.grittynurse.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grittynursepodcast

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    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrittynursepodcast?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

    X: https://x.com/GrittyNurse

    LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/thegrittynurse
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    29 m
  • I Got Ghosted, But I am Still Alive To Tell The Tale: Ghosting is NOT Boundary Setting

    I Got Ghosted, But I am Still Alive To Tell The Tale: Ghosting is NOT Boundary Setting
    Aug 19 2025

    ***This will be the last ATYPICAL Episode uploaded to THE GRITTY NURSE podcast show!

    THE GRITTY NURSE RETURNS THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 4TH 2026!

    The date went well--but you havent heard back--like...EVER.

    Did your bestie of 10 years suddenly stop talking to you?

    Are you still WAITING to hear back from that job interview that you did over 6 months ago?

    Ever been left on read... forever?

    Sorry hunny, you have been GHOSTED.

    Ghosting isn't just a frustrating dating trend; it's a cultural phenomenon that's silently killing our trust in relationships, friendships and professional connections.

    This week on Atypical Podcast with Nurse Amie Archibald-Varley MN, RN and Therapist Jordan Varley BSW, RSW, we're confronting the fade-out head-on. We'll explore the psychology of why we disappear, why being ghosted by a friend can hurt more than a breakup, and what to do when it happens in the workplace. We'll give you real strategies for coping when you're left in the dark and simple scripts for ending things with integrity—without becoming a ghost yourself. It's time to talk about the conversations we're avoiding.

    If you like what you listened to, please LIKE, SHARE and SUBSCRIBE.

    Questions or Comments about our episode? Having a "dear abby" moment? Send us a live message on Speakpipe:

    https://www.speakpipe.com/HostAmieandJordan
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    1 h y 9 m
  • The Illusion of Support to Increase Social Capital: Unmasking Peformative Allyship and HACKtivism

    The Illusion of Support to Increase Social Capital: Unmasking Peformative Allyship and HACKtivism
    Aug 5 2025

    In this episode of the Atypical Podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley RN, MN and Jordan Varley BSW, RSW delves into the complex world of advocacy work, exploring the responsibilities within their professions (nursing and social work) as well as the challenges of advocacy work. The discussion sheds light on the troubling trend of performative allyship, where actions are often more about boosting one's social capital than effecting real change. Through candid conversations and personal anecdotes, Amy and her guests unpack the layers of intention and impact in advocacy, urging listeners to reflect on their own roles and responsibilities. Tune in for an insightful exploration of what it truly means to be an ally and advocate in today's world.

    Have a comment? Want to leave a suggestion or episode request? Send Amie a Message on Speakpipe!

    https://www.speakpipe.com/AtypicalPodcastAmie

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    49 m
  • Mindfulness Monday – Focus on YOU (Not Them!) with Amie Archibald-Varley

    Mindfulness Monday – Focus on YOU (Not Them!) with Amie Archibald-Varley
    Jul 28 2025

    Feeling pulled in too many directions by the world around you? It's Monday and it's time to hit the reset button. Join Atypical host and "lifecare" advocate Amie Archibald-Varley for a powerful 5-minute mindfulness session designed to help you gently turn your attention inward.

    In this session, Amie guides you through the process of observing your own sensations, thoughts, and emotions, fostering a deeper connection with your internal landscape. Learn to consciously release any preoccupation with the actions, words, or perceived intentions of others, creating a much-needed space for your own well-being.

    This isn't about ignoring the world; it's about reclaiming your focus and cultivating a profound sense of inner peace. Tune in for this Monday Mindfulness session and discover how to start your week centred, grounded, and truly focused on you. A perfect dose of calm to navigate life's beautiful, sometimes chaotic, journey.

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    https://www.speakpipe.com/AtypicalPodcastAmie

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    7 m
  • Cheater, Cheater, Pumpkin Eater: When Personal Actions Cost Professional Trust

    Cheater, Cheater, Pumpkin Eater: When Personal Actions Cost Professional Trust
    Jul 22 2025
    *Note: This is NOT a shaming podcast episode.... In the hyper-connected world, every click, like, and share carries a surprising weight, especially for those in professions built on trust. This week on ATYPICAL podcast with Amie Archibald-Varley RN, MN, we dive into the fascinating and often brutal "digital court of public opinion," sparked by the recent viral "kiss cam" incident involving CEO Andy Byron. His very public moment serves as a potent reminder that in our increasingly transparent society, no one truly lives in a glass house, and the stones we throw online can shatter careers. We'll explore: The Andy Byron Aftershock: How a seemingly personal, fleeting moment, amplified by social media, instantly transformed into a corporate crisis and a public spectacle, raising critical questions about leadership accountability and the blurred lines between private and professional lives. The Unforgiving Gaze: Why social media, while a powerful tool for connection, has also become a relentless arbiter of morality, where context is often lost, and judgment is swift and severe. We'll discuss the concept of "digital shaming" and the difficulty of escaping online reputations. Trust Under Threat: Nurses, Therapists, and the Public Eye: We'll turn our focus to the profound implications for trusting professions like nursing and therapy. Why are healthcare and social work professionals particularly vulnerable to social media missteps? We'll share real-life examples of nurses and therapists who have faced disciplinary action, job loss, or damaged reputations due to: Breaches of Confidentiality: Even seemingly innocuous details can identify patients. Unprofessional Conduct: Venting, mocking, or disparaging remarks about clients, colleagues, or the system. Blurring Boundaries: The tricky line between personal and professional interactions online. Building Digital Walls (or Better Yet, Digital Wisdom): What can individuals in these vital roles do to protect their professional integrity in an always-on world? We'll discuss the importance of understanding employer social media policies, ethical guidelines, and cultivating a mindful approach to online presence. A Call for Empathy: As we scrutinize others in the digital square, we reflect on the universal truth that "we all live in glass houses." Can we foster a more nuanced and forgiving online environment, even as we uphold professional standards? Join us for a candid conversation about personal choices, public perception, and the ever-evolving landscape where our online lives intersect with our professional futures. Dont forget to leave a comment or ask a question to Amie on Speakpipe about the episode! Leave Amie a Message here: https://www.speakpipe.com/AtypicalPodcastAmie Please Like, Leave a comment and Subscribe!! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/atypical-podcast-with-amie-archibald-varley/id1493290782Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/d914ab3f-3dd0-42cb-818e-6c9bd5f8f162/atypical-podcast-with-amie-archibald-varleyAudible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/Atypical-Podcast-With-Amie-Archibald-Varley/B08K5VH59Y?Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IfBAFziaX6ibCaBK4yMxO?si=ddcb1dbbc6d940dciHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-atypical-podcast-with-amie-59510370/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxlDaSr_D2fc-e3pV5pMEEgGoodpods: https://goodpods.com/podcasts/atypical-podcast-with-amie-archibald-varley-91241Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/atypical-podcast-with-amie-arc-2304724Libsyn: https://atypicalpodcast.libsyn.com/Amie Archibald-Varley's Official Website: https://www.amiearchibaldvarley.com/ FOLLOW ATYPICAL PODCAST ON Social Media Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxlDaSr_D2fc-e3pV5pMEEgTwitter (X): https://twitter.com/AtypicalAmiePodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/atypicalwithamie/Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/atypicalpodcast.bsky.social
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    44 m