The Commercial Break

Episode: TCB Infomercial: Nurse Blake
Release Date: June 24, 2025
Host/Authors: Bryan Green and Krissy Hoadley
Guest: Nurse Blake, Internet Provocateur, Influencer, and Comedian

Introduction

In this episode of The Commercial Break, Bryan Green and Krissy Hoadley welcome their special guest, Nurse Blake—a renowned internet provocateur, influencer, and comedian with a strong voice in the nursing community. Described as a bridge between healthcare professionals and the public, Nurse Blake brings both humor and critical insights into the challenges faced by nurses today.

Nurse Blake’s Journey and Influence

Nurse Blake begins by sharing his transition from a practicing trauma nurse to a public advocate and comedian. He has amassed a significant online following by candidly discussing the realities of the healthcare system, nurse safety, and the everyday lives of medical professionals. His comedic approach makes complex and often distressing topics more accessible and engaging to a broader audience.

Bryan Green [00:03:31]:
"Nurse Blake has turned into a mouthpiece for other nurses around the country. Millions of people online follow him because he's saying the things that they won't or can't say about healthcare."

Healthcare System Challenges and Nurse Safety

A central focus of the discussion revolves around the systemic issues within the healthcare system, particularly the safety and staffing challenges faced by nurses. Nurse Blake emphasizes the alarming rise in workplace violence against nurses and the inadequate security measures in many hospitals.

Nurse Blake [00:27:18]:
"Nurses get hit, we get bit, we get slapped, we get punched. And it's insane. Hospitals don't provide enough security."

Bryan Green [00:30:03]:
"It's outrageous that anyone would say no to providing basic security measures for nurses."

The conversation highlights the dire need for legislative action to enforce safe staffing ratios and implement comprehensive security protocols in healthcare facilities. Nurse Blake advocates for nurses to become active voices in pushing for these changes to ensure both their safety and the quality of patient care.

The Pit: A Realistic Medical Drama

Bryan and Krissy delve into their appreciation for the television show The Pit, praising its authentic portrayal of emergency room dynamics. Nurse Blake concurs, noting that the show accurately reflects the ethical dilemmas and high-pressure situations that nurses regularly navigate.

Krissy Hoadley [00:24:25]:
"The Pit's different. They talk about all the real issues that we face, like the ethical dilemmas we have, and it's a really incredible show."

Nurse Blake [00:23:40]:
"It's the most accurate description of medicine, especially in today's age. Unlike other medical dramas, The Pit doesn't just rehash stories; it dives into the nitty-gritty of emergency care."

This segment underscores the importance of media representation in shaping public perceptions of nursing and healthcare professionals, fostering greater understanding and respect for their critical roles.

Comedy and Personal Anecdotes

Nurse Blake's unique blend of comedy and nursing experiences provides a refreshing take on serious topics. He shares humorous yet insightful stories from his tours, including interactions with fellow nurses and amusing health-related mishaps.

Krissy Hoadley [00:46:44]:
"Is it a 9? When you ask, like, what's your pain? On a scale of 0 to 10? They're like, it's 18. I'm like, that's not the scale."

Nurse Blake [00:47:35]:
"We've seen everything—from broken arms to the quirkiest medical emergencies during shows. It's all material that keeps our audiences laughing and informed."

These anecdotes not only entertain but also humanize nurses, showcasing their resilience and ability to find humor amidst the chaos of medical emergencies.

Advocacy and Community Building

Nurse Blake is deeply committed to advocating for nurse safety and fostering a supportive community. He discusses his initiative, Nurse Con at Sea—a conference held on a cruise ship that brings together thousands of nurses for networking, relaxation, and professional development.

Nurse Blake [00:37:20]:
"We take over a whole cruise ship, bringing 3,500 nurses together for a week of fun, learning, and support. It's a much-needed escape and a way to strengthen our community."

This initiative highlights the importance of solidarity among nurses and provides a platform for them to share experiences, empower each other, and advocate for necessary changes within the healthcare system.

Pride Month and LGBTQ Advocacy

The conversation also touches on Pride Month and the significance of representation and support for LGBTQ individuals within the healthcare community. Nurse Blake shares his experiences and the importance of creating inclusive environments where all patients feel safe and respected.

Bryan Green [00:43:14]:
"Why anybody gets upset about Pride, or gay folks in their community, they are the best partiers. If you're going to have a party, go there."

Nurse Blake [00:52:17]:
"We push for more diversity in healthcare so that the people working in hospitals can represent and understand the communities they serve."

This segment reinforces the podcast's commitment to diversity and inclusion, showcasing how Nurse Blake uses his platform to advocate for marginalized groups within the healthcare sector.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Bryan and Krissy expressing their admiration for Nurse Blake's work and emphasizing the critical role nurses play in healthcare. They encourage listeners to support Nurse Blake's tour and initiatives, highlighting the importance of voicing and addressing the systemic challenges within the healthcare system.

Bryan Green [00:58:03]:
"Nurse Blake, you can find him on social media. All the relevant links are in the show notes. 68 city tour. He's coming to Atlanta, and we're definitely going to support you."

Key Takeaways

• Healthcare System Issues: Chronic understaffing, lack of security, and the rising violence against nurses are critical issues needing immediate attention.
• Nurse Safety Advocacy: Legislative efforts are essential to ensure safe working conditions and adequate staffing ratios in hospitals.
• Media Representation: Accurate portrayals of nursing in media, such as The Pit, can enhance public understanding and respect for healthcare professionals.
• Community Building: Initiatives like Nurse Con at Sea foster solidarity among nurses, providing essential support and professional development.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Advocating for diversity within healthcare ensures better representation and understanding of the communities served.

Notable Quotes

• Nurse Blake [00:27:18]:
  "Nurses get hit, we get bit, we get slapped, we get punched. And it's insane. Hospitals don't provide enough security."

• Krissy Hoadley [00:24:25]:
  "The Pit's different. They talk about all the real issues that we face, like the ethical dilemmas we have, and it's a really incredible show."

• Bryan Green [00:30:03]:
  "It's outrageous that anyone would say no to providing basic security measures for nurses."

This episode of The Commercial Break offers a compelling blend of humor, personal stories, and critical discussions about the healthcare system, highlighting the indispensable role of nurses and the urgent need for systemic reforms. Nurse Blake's candid insights and comedic prowess make this episode both enlightening and entertaining, providing valuable perspectives for listeners unfamiliar with the intricacies of nursing and healthcare advocacy.