After serving 40+ years as a nurse and case manager, Lori Schellenberg bypassed retirement to found Stepping Stone Advocacy Services. Her company matches patients and their families with Patient Advocates (i.e., licensed medical professionals who work with patients and their care teams to help overcome care challenges, find financial resources, and identify other important resources that improve quality of care.)

Lori is also a strong advocate for nurses. In addition to helping patients and their families, Stepping Stone Advocacy Services helps nurses pivot from the bedside by training them as Patient Advocates. The goal of the company’s nurse training platform is to prevent nurse burnout, provide nurses with key business skills, and keep nurses working in healthcare in a fulfilling way.

As the founder of pivotpath, Audrey McCollough draws from her own journey of transformation to help other nurses discover fulfilling careers beyond the bedside. Her authentic understanding of both clinical and business environments makes her a sought-after consultant in the healthcare technology space, where she consistently drives growth while maintaining genuine connections with the healthcare community she serves.

Maggie Ortiz (MSN, RN), is the founder of Advocates For Nurses, a one-stop resource for nurses seeking guidance, education, and empowerment. With a mission to support and uplift the nursing community, Maggie has created a platform where nurses can gain the tools, knowledge, and confidence to navigate the complexities of their profession and protect their practice.

February is American Heart Month, a time to prioritize the powerhouse organ that keeps us alive and thriving. While we all know the fundamentals—exercise, eat well, and avoid smoking—true heart health lies in the often-overlooked details.

From understanding the impact of stress on your cardiovascular system to the latest research on the connection between sleep and heart disease, this month is about empowering you with knowledge to make informed, impactful changes. Whether it’s exploring heart-healthy superfoods, managing risk factors like high blood pressure, or learning how personalized in-home care can support your wellness journey, it’s time to go beyond the basics and take control of your heart health.

Your heart deserves more than just attention—it deserves action. Let’s unlock the secrets to a healthier, happier life together.

Cat Golden (BSN, RN) is a multi-faceted individual - a nurse, entrepreneur, connector, and the ultimate hype girl. After practicing as a nurse for six years and launching the successful Nurses Inspire Nurses community and brand, she launched a new career as a Brand Engagement Consultant called “Middle Woman.” Leveraging her expertise as a nurse, motivational speaker, community leader, brand builder, and master connector, Cat helps other entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life, humanize their brands, and foster genuine connections.

Nursing is one of the most rewarding professions in the world, but let’s face it—it can also feel limiting at times. If you’re feeling stuck in your nursing career, know this: you’re not alone, and there’s a world of opportunity waiting for you beyond the bedside.

If you’ve ever wondered why POLST and MOLST forms are so critical in elder care, you’re not alone. These forms simplify complex decisions, ensuring that patients receive the care they want—and only the care they want—during life’s most vulnerable moments.

For nurses looking to transition into entrepreneurship, starting a concierge nursing practice can be a rewarding and impactful journey. However, success requires more than just clinical expertise—it’s about asking the right questions and building a solid foundation. Here are some of the essential considerations every nurse entrepreneur should explore before diving in.

Rework by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson challenges traditional business wisdom and provides unconventional advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders. As I read through the pages, these five key lessons stood out to me and shaped how I approach my work and personal life.

By 2022, we successfully sold the company. It was proof that nurses—with their expertise and compassion—are uniquely positioned to build thriving businesses that make a difference.

Savannah Arroyo and Ky Arnold are two passionate nurses on a mission to create positive change in the healthcare industry through their financial wellness platform, InvestHealth. With an innovative solution tailored specifically for healthcare professionals, InvestHealth provides knowledge and a support network to empower all healthcare professionals to take ownership of their financial future.

Oliver Sacks, the renowned neurologist and best-selling author, is celebrated not just for his groundbreaking work in medicine but also for his extraordinary ability to illuminate the human experience through his writing. Among his many works, Gratitude stands out as a deeply personal and moving reflection on what it means to live a life filled with appreciation and wonder.

Discussing elder care with loved ones can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to approach the conversation with empathy, understanding, and patience. Here are a few key tips to make these conversations a little easier.