Episodios

  • S1 012. An Interview with Former NOBC Executive Director Laurie Benson
    Jul 1 2025
    In this episode, our host Dr. Lillian Pryor interviews Dr. Jami S. Brown, ANNA Board Secretary and Associate Professor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and Laurie Benson, Executive Director of the Nurses on Boards Coalition. Together, they discuss the critical importance of having nurses serve on Boards of Directors and the impact of nurse leadership in shaping healthcare policy and improving community health.

    Tune in to hear insights from Dr. Brown’s extensive experience in nephrology nursing and nursing education, alongside Ms. Benson’s expertise in board governance and healthcare innovation. Don’t miss this compelling conversation on how nurses can leverage their unique skills to lead and influence at the highest levels of decision-making.

    Dr. Jami S. Brown is an Associate Professor and Traditional BSN Concentration Coordinator at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center’s College of Nursing in Memphis, Tennessee. A registered nurse for over 20 years, Dr. Brown’s background includes critical care, dialysis nursing, and nursing academia. She is ANNA’s 2024-2025 National Secretary, Chair of the Bylaws and Policy Committee, a member of the Nephrology Nursing Journal’s Editorial Board, and a representative on the Nurses on Boards Coalition Board of Directors.

    Laurie Benson is the Former Executive Director of the Nurses on Boards Coalition, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving community health by advancing nurses into leadership roles on boards, commissions, and appointments. With a distinguished career as a CEO and advisor, Ms. Benson has served on seven corporate boards and brings deep expertise in governance, strategy, and healthcare innovation.

    Dr. Lillian Pryor, DNP, RN, CNN, is Dialysis Program Manager at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Henry. A member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association since 1990, Dr. Pryor has served in roles that include president-elect, ANNA director, ANNA Awards and Scholarships Committee chairperson, ANNA representative to the Kidney Health Initiative Patient Preference Task Force, and an author and peer reviewer for the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Dr. Pryor served as the 2020-2021 President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association. In addition, she is an active member of ANNA’s Dogwood Chapter in Georgia and has served the chapter as both its president and health policy representative.

    © American Nephrology Nurses Association.
    All rights reserved. No portion of this podcast may be used without written permission.

    Podcast production management by Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc., for the American Nephrology Nurses Association.

    Music by Scott Holmes.
    http://www.scottholmesmusic.com
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    38 m
  • S1 011. Advancing Kidney Care Worldwide: The Global Role of the Nephrology Nurse
    May 1 2025
    In this episode, our host Dr. Lillian Pryor interviews John Davis, former Chief Executive Officer of Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO), about the vital role nephrology nurses play in advancing kidney care worldwide. With over three decades of leadership in global kidney health and medical nonprofits, John brings a wealth of experience and insights to the conversation. Tune in as John discusses the importance of nephrology nurses in implementing evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, improving patient outcomes, and shaping the future of kidney care. Don’t miss this inspiring episode that highlights the invaluable contributions of nephrology nurses to the global kidney health community.

    John Davis is the Chief Executive Officer Emeritus of Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) and a global leader in kidney health advocacy and education. Over his distinguished career, John has led groundbreaking initiatives in kidney disease detection, treatment, and prevention, including raising over $200 million for programs that have advanced kidney care worldwide.

    Dr. Lillian Pryor, DNP, RN, CNN, is Dialysis Program Manager at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Henry. A member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association since 1990, Dr. Pryor has served in roles that include president-elect, ANNA director, ANNA Awards and Scholarships Committee chairperson, ANNA representative to the Kidney Health Initiative Patient Preference Task Force, and an author and peer reviewer for the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Dr. Pryor served as the 2020-2021 President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association. In addition, she is an active member of ANNA’s Dogwood Chapter in Georgia and has served the chapter as both its president and health policy representative.

    © American Nephrology Nurses Association.
    All rights reserved. No portion of this podcast may be used without written permission.

    Podcast production management by Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc., for the American Nephrology Nurses Association.

    Music by Scott Holmes.
    http://www.scottholmesmusic.com
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    27 m
  • S1 010. Shaping Policies that Impact Kidney Care: Health Policy Initiatives from the American Nephrology Nurses Association
    Mar 1 2025
    In this episode, our host Dr. Lillian Pryor interviews Donna Bednarski, RN, MSN, ANP-BC, CNN, and Donna Painter, MS, BSN, RN, CNN, ANNA’s Co-Chief Nurse Advisors on Health Policy and Advocacy. Together, they discuss ANNA’s advocacy efforts and health policy initiatives, highlighting the vital role nephrology nurses play in shaping policies that impact kidney care.

    Tune in to hear insights from Donna Bednarski’s extensive experience in quality improvement and legislative advocacy, alongside Donna Painter’s expertise in home dialysis and patient education. Don’t miss this engaging conversation on how nephrology nurses can influence health policy and advance care for individuals with kidney disease.

    Donna Bednarski, RN, MSN, ANP-BC, CNN, is an ANNA Past President and has over 30 years of experience in nephrology nursing, specializing in dialysis access planning, quality improvement, and education. A passionate advocate for quality care, Donna has held leadership roles in legislative and regulatory initiatives with ANNA and the Michigan Nurses Association, bringing her expertise to nephrology health policy efforts.

    Donna Painter, MS, BSN, RN, CNN, is an ANNA Past President and a Certified Nephrology Nurse with over 30 years of experience. Donna has a background in both in-center and home dialysis, with a focus on quality improvement and patient education. She is currently a surveyor for the National Dialysis Accreditation Commission and serves as ANNA’s representative on the Steering Committee of the Alliance for Home Dialysis.

    Lillian Pryor, DNP, RN, CNN, is Dialysis Program Manager at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Henry. A member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association since 1990, Dr. Pryor has served in roles that include president-elect, ANNA director, ANNA Awards and Scholarships Committee chairperson, ANNA representative to the Kidney Health Initiative Patient Preference Task Force, and an author and peer reviewer for the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Dr. Pryor served as the 2020-2021 President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association. In addition, she is an active member of ANNA’s Dogwood Chapter in Georgia and has served the chapter as both its president and health policy representative.

    © American Nephrology Nurses Association.
    All rights reserved. No portion of this podcast may be used without written permission.

    Podcast production management by Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc., for the American Nephrology Nurses Association.

    Music by Scott Holmes.
    http://www.scottholmesmusic.com
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    23 m
  • S1 09. Building a Better Future for Nephrology Nurses: A Conversation with Michele Kimball, ANNA Executive Director
    Jan 1 2025
    In this episode, host Lillian Pryor interviews Michele H. Kimball, the Executive Director of the American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA). Michele brings a wealth of experience in non-profit management and healthcare advocacy, having previously served as Executive Director of Kidney Care Partners and CEO of Physicians for Fair Coverage.

    Join us as Michele shares insights from her extensive career, her vision for the future of nephrology nursing, and her leadership role at ANNA. This episode provides an in-depth look at the challenges and opportunities in the nephrology field and the importance of advocacy and leadership in advancing patient care. Don't miss this enlightening conversation—tune in now to gain valuable perspectives and inspiration!

    Michele H. Kimball is a skilled executive and healthcare advocate currently leading the American Nephrology Nurses Association as their Executive Director. With years of experience in non-profit management, Michele has served as the Executive Director of Kidney Care Partners, the CEO of Physicians for Fair Coverage, and was the first Director of AARP Minnesota. Earlier, Michele served on AARP’s Federal Affairs Health Team, and co-led the AARP Medicare Fraud Team that established an award-winning campaign in partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Justice. Prior to AARP, Michele was a staff member of the U.S. House of Representatives Ways and Means Health Subcommittee and served as a Courtroom Intern for the U.S. Supreme Court. She has a degree in Public Administration and Public Law from Alfred University, a Certificate in Strategic Management from St. Thomas University, and a Certificate in Women’s Leadership from St. Catherine’s University.

    Lillian Pryor, DNP, RN, CNN, is Dialysis Program Manager at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Henry. A member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association since 1990, Dr. Pryor has served in roles that include president-elect, ANNA director, ANNA Awards and Scholarships Committee chairperson, ANNA representative to the Kidney Health Initiative Patient Preference Task Force, and an author and peer reviewer for the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Dr. Pryor served as the 2020-2021 President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association. In addition, she is an active member of ANNA’s Dogwood Chapter in Georgia and has served the chapter as both its president and health policy representative.

    © American Nephrology Nurses Association.
    All rights reserved. No portion of this podcast may be used without written permission.

    Podcast production management by Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc., for the American Nephrology Nurses Association.

    Music by Scott Holmes.
    http://www.scottholmesmusic.com
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    28 m
  • S1 08. Improving Vascular Access and Nephrology Care: A Deep Dive with Deborah Brouwer-Maier
    Dec 1 2024
    In this episode, host Lillian Pryor interviews Deborah Brouwer-Maier, RN, CNN, a nephrology nursing expert with over 40 years of experience, focusing on hemodialysis vascular access. Deborah has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing key vascular access guidelines and initiatives, including her work with the NKF KDOQI Vascular Access Work Groups and the National Vascular Access Improvement Initiative. Deborah shares her extensive knowledge on vascular access care, her contributions to various professional organizations, and her dedication to improving patient outcomes. Don't miss this insightful conversation—tune in now to learn from a true leader in vascular access care.

    Deborah Brouwer-Maier, RN, CNN, has over 40 years of nephrology nursing experience in all forms of kidney replacement modalities. Her area of focus includes hemodialysis vascular access. She served on the National Kidney Foundation KDOQI Vascular Access Work Groups for 1997, 2000, and 2006 versions. She currently is serving as the Co-chair of the 2019 KDOQI Vascular Access Guidelines Implementation Committee. Deborah served on the National Leadership Group for the National Vascular Access Improvement Initiative and various Fistula First Work Groups, including the Work Group that created the One Minute Check toolkit. She is an active member of ANNA, American Society of Diagnostic and Interventional Nephrology, and Vascular Access Society of the Americas professional organizations. She has given numerous local, national, and international presentations on vascular access care. Her body of work includes publications on vascular access in various professional publications geared toward patients, nephrology nurse professionals, and physicians. Her work experience also includes medical devices related to vascular access and clinical studies to improve vascular access care. Deborah joined the DEI committee to foster the principles of DEI within the ANNA organization and membership. Nephrology nurses need to be leaders for DEI principles as it relates to the process of care for all individuals with kidney diseases.

    Lillian Pryor, DNP, RN, CNN, is Dialysis Program Manager at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Henry. A member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association since 1990, Dr. Pryor has served in roles that include president-elect, ANNA director, ANNA Awards and Scholarships Committee chairperson, ANNA representative to the Kidney Health Initiative Patient Preference Task Force, and an author and peer reviewer for the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Dr. Pryor served as the 2020-2021 President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association. In addition, she is an active member of ANNA’s Dogwood Chapter in Georgia and has served the chapter as both its president and health policy representative.

    © American Nephrology Nurses Association.
    All rights reserved. No portion of this podcast may be used without written permission.

    Podcast production management by Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc., for the American Nephrology Nurses Association.

    Music by Scott Holmes.
    http://www.scottholmesmusic.com
    Más Menos
    32 m
  • S1 07. Advancing Nephrology Through Education and Virtual Reality: Insights from Dr. Beth Ulrich and Tim Fitzpatrick
    Nov 1 2024
    In this episode, host Lillian Pryor interviews two distinguished guests about the impact of new technology, including virtual reality, on the nephrology industry. Joining the conversation are Beth Ulrich, EdD RN FACHE FAONL FAAN, a nationally recognized thought leader in nephrology nursing, and Tim Fitzpatrick, co-founder and CEO of IKONA, a pioneer in using virtual reality for patient education in nephrology.Dr. Ulrich brings her extensive experience as a healthcare executive, educator, and researcher, while Tim Fitzpatrick shares his innovative work in virtual reality technology and analytics to improve outcomes for patients with end stage kidney disease. Tune in to explore the transformative potential of technology in nephrology and how it is shaping the future of patient care and nursing practice.Beth Ulrich, EdD, RN, FACHE, FAONL, FAAN, is a nationally recognized thought leader who is known for her research studying nursing work environments and the experiences of new graduate nurses as they transition from nursing school into the workforce and for her leadership in developing the roles of nephrology nurses and improving the care of nephrology patients. Dr. Ulrich has extensive experience as a healthcare executive, educator, and researcher. She is currently a professor of nursing at the University of Texas Medical Branch School of Nursing at Galveston, teaching in the DNP Program, and Editor-in-Chief of the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Dr. Ulrich is a past president of the American Nephrology Nurses Association, a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives, a Fellow in the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, and a Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing. She has been recognized as a Distinguished alumnus of the Medical University of South Carolina School of Nursing and the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Nursing. In 2018, she received the Marguerite Rodgers Kinney Award for a Distinguished Career from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses and in 2023 she received the Nell J. Watts Lifetime Achievement Award from Sigma Theta Tau. Dr. Ulrich has been the primary investigator on a series of national nursing workforce and work environment studies, including five studies of nurse work environments conducted for the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. She has numerous publications and presentations to her credit on topics including nurses' work environments, how new graduate nurses transition into professional nurses, and nephrology nursing. Both editions of Dr. Ulrich’s books Mastering Precepting (2012, 2019) and Mastering Simulation (2014, 2020) have received the American Journal of Nursing Book of the Year Awards. The 3rd edition of Mastering Precepting was published in July 2023.Tim Fitzpatrick is the co-founder and CEO of IKONA, a learning company trusted by over 250 clinics to improve ESRD outcomes using virtual reality and analytics. His interest in healthcare stems from his own experiences as a patient in the US Navy and VA Health System. Before launching his first company, Tim worked as an equities trader in New York where he covered emerging technologies (such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence) and new media (streaming, studios, content). Building on his co-founders’ research, Tim launched IKONA in 2017 to help tackle the uncertainties he once faced in the Navy, a company now backed by top research, healthcare and technology partners including the National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, StartUp Health and NVIDIA. Tim has served as Principal Investigator on multiple patient education-focused research grants, published several papers on the neuroscience of learning and immersive technologies in a leading peer-reviewed nephrology journal, and supported early stage healthcare technology startups as Venture Partner at New York-based FundRx. He also writes Signals, a top newsletter about the future of health/care innovation read by over 10,000 industry and academic leaders across the space, from learning to life sciences, and diagnostics to medical devices.Lillian Pryor, DNP, RN, CNN, is Dialysis Program Manager at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Henry. A member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association since 1990, Dr. Pryor has served in roles that include president-elect, ANNA director, ANNA Awards and Scholarships Committee chairperson, ANNA representative to the Kidney Health Initiative Patient Preference Task Force, and an author and peer reviewer for the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Dr. Pryor served as the 2020-2021 President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association. In addition, she is an active member of ANNA’s Dogwood Chapter in Georgia and has served the chapter as both its president and health policy representative.© American Nephrology Nurses Association.All rights reserved. No portion of this podcast may be used without written ...
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    32 m
  • S1 06. United for Kidney Care: Insights from the Presidents of ANNA and ASN
    Oct 1 2024
    In this episode, our host Lillian Pryor interviews Nancy Colobong Smith, President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA), and Deborah Crews, President of the American Society of Nephrologists (ASN), about a groundbreaking new agreement. This historic pact is the first formal agreement of support between nephrologists and nephrology nurses, aimed at fostering collaboration and enhancing patient care. Tune in to learn how this agreement will impact the nephrology field, improve patient outcomes, and create new opportunities for professional development. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of nephrology care and the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation.

    Nancy Colobong Smith, MN, ARNP, CNN, has over 28 years of experience as a nephrology nurse in multiple roles from direct care to leadership. She earned her Master's in Nursing from the University of Washington with a dual focus as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Practice Specialist. Currently, Nancy is a Clinical Nurse Specialist for inpatient nephrology, dialysis & transplant at the University of Washington Medical Center. Nancy was the lead RN in the first FDA trial in the United States of the Wearable Artificial Kidney. She is an active member of the University of Washington Medical Center Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Committee, an EDI Peer Trainer, and a member of the University of Washington Medicine Bias Incident Report Committee. Nancy serves on regional and national boards including, ESRD Network 16 Medical Review Board, ESRD Network 16 Board of Directors, American Nephrology Nurses Association Board of Directors, and Nephrology Nursing Journal Editorial Board. Nancy is honored to be ANNA’s National President for 2024-2025.

    Deidra C. Crews, MD, ScM, FASN, MACP, is a Professor of Medicine in the Division of Nephrology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. She holds appointments with the Schools of Public Health and Nursing, the Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research, the Center on Aging and Health, and the Center for Health Equity, where she is Deputy Director. Her work has elucidated root causes of the disproportionate burden of kidney disease among socially marginalized populations; addressed social and behavioral risk factors for adverse kidney outcomes through interventions; and informed guidelines for optimizing care processes for people with kidney failure. An elected member of the American Society for Clinical Investigation, the Association of American Physicians and the National Academy of Medicine, Dr. Crews has received numerous awards for her research contributions, including the 2018 Johns Hopkins University President’s Frontier Award—a $250,000 award given annually to a faculty member who demonstrates significant academic achievement and the potential for transformative future work. Dr. Crews received the W. Lester Henry Award for Diversity and Access to Care from the American College of Physicians and is a Master of the American College of Physicians. The American Society of Nephrology has honored Dr. Crews with its Distinguished Leader Award, and she currently serves as ASN President. Dr. Crews received her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia and her medical degree from Saint Louis University. A graduate of the Osler Medical Training Program, she completed nephrology fellowship and a master’s in clinical epidemiology degree at Johns Hopkins.

    Lillian Pryor, DNP, RN, CNN, is Dialysis Program Manager at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Henry. A member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association since 1990, Dr. Pryor has served in roles that include president-elect, ANNA director, ANNA Awards and Scholarships Committee chairperson, ANNA representative to the Kidney Health Initiative Patient Preference Task Force, and an author and peer reviewer for the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Dr. Pryor served as the 2020-2021 President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association. In addition, she is an active member of ANNA’s Dogwood Chapter in Georgia and has served the chapter as both its president and health policy representative.

    © American Nephrology Nurses Association.
    All rights reserved. No portion of this podcast may be used without written permission.

    Podcast production management by Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc., for the American Nephrology Nurses Association.

    Music by Scott Holmes.
    http://www.scottholmesmusic.com
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    28 m
  • S1 05. Beyond the Dialysis Clinic: Exploring Different Roles and Future Trends for Nephrology Nurses
    Sep 1 2024
    In this episode, host Lillian Pryor interviews two distinguished members of the American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA), Deborah Degree, BSN, RN, and Michelle Gilliland, MSN, RN, CNN, about the nephrology industry and the variety of roles within nephrology nursing. Deborah Degree, Renal Program Nurse Educator at Pentec Health and President of the ANNA Dogwood Chapter brings her extensive experience in home dialysis therapies. Michelle Gilliland, Clinical Site Manager at Alio and former Director on the National Board of ANNA, offers her expertise in non-invasive remote monitoring and clinical management. Join us for an engaging conversation on the diverse and evolving landscape of nephrology nursing.

    Deborah Degree, BSN, RN, is currently the Renal Program Nurse Educator at Pentec Health. She serves as a liaison and subject matter expert for IDPN and IPN therapy in Home Dialysis including PD and HHD. Her role includes advising IPN prescriptions, contributing resources related to PD and HHD to the Renal team, speaking to colleagues at various conferences, and providing patient education and hands-on training to patients, their families and home dialysis nurses. Deborah also advocates for IDPN and IPN therapy by consulting with ordering nephrologists, nurses, pharmacists and dietitians as needed. Deborah completed her BSN in nursing at University of Alabama. She has been a nurse for over 30 years serving in the Renal Community since 1990, first as a PD Coordinator and then as a Clinical Manager with Gambro Healthcare. She has also worked in the Pharmaceutical industry with American Regent for Venofer, and Sanofi for Hectorol and Renvela. Currently, she is the President for the ANNA Dogwood Chapter in the greater Atlanta, Georgia area.

    Michelle Gilliland, MSN, RN,, CNN, is a Clinical Site Manager at Alio, a leader in non-invasive remote monitoring for dialysis patients. She develops clinical materials, manages product launches, and provides clinical training. Michelle’s strategic expertise in nephrology includes leading technology initiatives, nurturing customer relationships, and implementing best practices. Her previous roles at Outset Medical and Fresenius Medical Care highlight her strengths in clinical management, team leadership, and continuous improvement, significantly contributing to home dialysis programs and advanced renal solutions. Michelle holds a Master of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, both magna cum laude, from the College of Saint Mary in Omaha, Nebraska. She is a Certified Nephrology Nurse and holds certifications in Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and Project Management. An active member of the American Nephrology Nursing Association, she has served as Director on the National Board and President of the Platte River Nebraska Chapter. Michelle is dedicated to community service with the Nebraska Kidney Association and has been honored with the Wayne G. Schroeder Humanitarian Award. Her contributions to nephrology are also evidenced by her numerous publications and presentations at national conferences.

    Lillian Pryor, DNP, RN, CNN, is Dialysis Program Manager at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Henry. A member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association since 1990, Dr. Pryor has served in roles that include president-elect, ANNA director, ANNA Awards and Scholarships Committee chairperson, ANNA representative to the Kidney Health Initiative Patient Preference Task Force, and an author and peer reviewer for the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Dr. Pryor served as the 2020-2021 President of the American Nephrology Nurses Association. In addition, she is an active member of ANNA’s Dogwood Chapter in Georgia and has served the chapter as both its president and health policy representative.

    © American Nephrology Nurses Association.
    All rights reserved. No portion of this podcast may be used without written permission.

    Podcast production management by Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc., for the American Nephrology Nurses Association.

    Music by Scott Holmes.
    http://www.scottholmesmusic.com
    Más Menos
    40 m