Don’t lose new faculty: Mentoring nurse educators to stay

The transition from expert clinician to nurse educator is not always easy. While new faculty bring valuable clinical knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom, many quickly experience what is often described as academic shock as they discover that teaching involves far more than sharing what they know. From developing curriculum and designing assessments to navigating accreditation requirements and engaging today's learners, the learning curve can be steep.

In this episode, host Dr. Kelly J. Dries welcomes nurse leader Dr. Anne Brett for a conversation about one of the most effective ways to support new educators: intentional mentoring.

Drawing on more than 40 years of experience in nursing education and academic leadership, Dr. Brett explores why many new faculty struggle during the transition to academia and how mentoring can help bridge the gap between clinical expertise and teaching success. She shares practical examples of both formal and informal mentoring approaches, highlighting how strong relationships can build confidence, reduce feelings of isolation, and create a foundation for long-term growth.

The discussion also examines the broader impact of mentoring on nursing programs. As faculty shortages continue to challenge nursing programs, supporting new educators from day one is essential to program stability, faculty well-being, and student success. Dr. Brett explains how effective mentoring not only benefits new faculty, but also strengthens teams, improves retention, and helps create healthier academic environments for everyone involved.

Whether you are stepping into academia, mentoring a colleague, or leading a nursing program, this conversation offers practical insight, encouragement, and strategies you can put into action.

Tune in to hear why mentoring matters, what effective support looks like, and how nursing programs can help new educators thrive from the very start.