
Building Esteem Through Feedback and Support
Over the past season, we've explored the conditions that support nurse engagement, including infrastructure, healthy work environments, competency, safety, and belonging. In this episode of the Beyond Nurse Residency Podcast, we turn our attention to another essential element: esteem. Host Nicole Weathers is joined by nurse leader, educator, speaker, and human skills advocate Rachel Kelter for a conversation about the role esteem plays in shaping a nurse's experience, growth, and engagement. Together, they explore both self-esteem and organization-based self-esteem, examining how a nurse's belief in their own capabilities, and their sense of being valued by their organization, influence confidence, resilience, and professional development. In this episode, you'll learn: Why confidence and competence don't always develop at the same pace The relationship between esteem, self-efficacy, and self-advocacy How belonging and psychological safety contribute to self-belief The role human skills play in personal and professional growth Practical strategies for leaders, educators, preceptors, and colleagues to help cultivate confidence and esteem in others Whether you're supporting new graduate nurses or developing seasoned clinicians, this conversation offers valuable insights into creating environments where nurses feel capable, valued, and empowered to make a meaningful impact. Guest: Rachel Kelter, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, CPC Nurse Leader, Speaker, Coach, & Educator Rachel Kelter, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, CPC is a dynamic speaker, nurse leader, and human skills educator who helps healthcare teams—and professionals beyond healthcare—strengthen communication, build trust, and lead with grounded confidence during times of change. With more than a decade of experience in nursing professional development, Rachel designs and delivers high-impact learning experiences focused on leadership growth, workforce development, and meaningful practice transformation. As a master’s-prepared registered nurse and board-certified Nursing Professional Development specialist, Rachel combines clinical expertise with evidence-based education, coaching, and leadership development to create practical, relatable strategies audiences can immediately apply in both professional and personal environments. How to find Rachel: Website LinkedIn Disruptor Diaries podcast Article: Human Design and Nursing Professional Development A New Approach to Preceptor Support Supporting nurses is our priority. Visit https://nursing.uiowa.edu/ionrp to explore our resources for new graduate nurses and beyond.
















