Why new nurses leave and what educators must do differently

Why do so many new nurses leave within their first year — despite completing rigorous academic programs and clinical training?

Welcome to Lippincott Spark: Illuminating Nursing Education, the podcast that fuels teaching, innovation, and leadership. Hosted by Dr. Kelly Dries, this episode explores a transformative mindset for nursing education: Why new nurses leave — and what educators can do differently.

What if the biggest reason new nurses leave has nothing to do with clinical competence and everything to do with the hidden curriculum we never explicitly teach? How can educators empower new nurses to navigate boundaries, build confidence, and make sound decisions in the real world?

Special guest Kati Kleber, MSN, RN — nurse educator, national speaker, and founder of FreshRN — shares her candid insights into the emotional load new nurses carry, the disconnect between structured onboarding and real-world practice, and the pivotal role of preceptors in shaping success.

What unspoken skills are we assuming new nurses will “just pick up” — and at what cost?

Tune in to discover how educators can bridge the gap between intention and impact, equipping new nurses with the skills they need to thrive.