Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode, host Beth Quaas sits down with nurse, author, and wellness expert Giovanna Navarro to unpack the real science behind burnout, stress, and healing in nursing. With nearly three decades of clinical experience and deep training in neuroscience and behavioral health—including mentorship under Dr. Joe Dispenza—Giovanna explains why traditional “self-care” isn’t enough.

This conversation dives into the physiological impact of chronic stress, the concept of “bracing” in healthcare environments, and how unresolved trauma stays stored in the body—affecting performance, relationships, and long-term health. Giovanna shares practical, science-backed tools nurses can use in real-time on shift to regulate their nervous system, recover faster, and prevent long-term burnout.

Key Topics Covered:

Why burnout in nursing is different (and deeper) than in other professions.
The concept of “physiological bracing” and chronic nervous system activation.
The difference between sympathetic vs parasympathetic nervous system states.
The power of gratitude and emotional regulation in high-stress environments.
Why changing roles doesn’t fix burnout.

Resources & Links:
Find the book Burn Bright Not Out, Burnout Solutions for Nurses in a Broken System on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Connect with Giovanna on LinkedIn and Instagram.
Visit Giovanna's website.

Subscribe, Rate, and Review Don't Eat Your Young!
Your support helps us continue bringing valuable conversations to the nursing community. If you know someone in healthcare who's making a significant impact, we want to hear about them! Whether it's a nurse, NP, CRNA, student, aide, manager, supervisor, or even a patient advocate driving positive change and inspiring others, we’d love to shine a spotlight on their work. Nominate someone today by filling out this form.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★