ABOUT THIS EPISODE
In this episode of Code Calm, Dr. Melanie Gray sits down with Keeley Hayes, Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Nursing for a major health system, to explore what it really takes to lead through stress in a high-pressure healthcare environment. Keeley shares her career journey from staff nurse to executive leader, revealing how mentorship, relationship-building, and leading with influence shaped her path to the C-suite.
The conversation dives deep into the realities of managing a large nursing team, delivering strategic outcomes, and staying steady when stress is unavoidable. Keeley also opens up about the leadership habit that has made the biggest difference for her: taking time each day to breathe, reset, and quiet the noise. Listeners will come away with practical, human-centered strategies for leading with calm, kindness, and consistency.
Top Insights:
- Leadership influence matters more than direct control in large organizations.
- Genuine appreciation can reduce stress and strengthen team commitment.
- Self-awareness is a leadership skill that can be developed over time.
- Brief daily breathing and meditation practices can improve calm and consistency.
- Healthy leadership cultures start with what executives model every day.
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💡 Connect with our guest!:
Follow Dr. Keeley Hayes on LinkedIn to stay updated with her latest insights and work:
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/keeleyhayesdnp/
