Culture Change RX

How Rural Hospitals Build Leaders and Approach Change

Sue Tetzlaff / Shelby Guevera Season 1 Episode 44

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In this episode, Shelby Guevara, a Chief Nursing Officer in rural Iowa, shares her insights on leadership in healthcare, particularly in rural hospital settings. She discusses the importance of building trust and empathy among leaders, engaging frontline staff in decision-making, and the significance of understanding one's purpose in leadership. Shelby emphasizes the value of promoting from within and creating a supportive environment for leaders to grow and develop. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of leading in healthcare, especially in fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.


  • Understanding individual motivations aids in leadership development.
  • Investing in developing and strengthening relationships pays dividends.
  • Individual growth and process improvement, and even conflict, require a supportive environment.
  • Successful continuous improvement requires ongoing auditing and accountability.
  • Leaders can reflect on their purpose to stay motivated for this work.
  • Leaders play a crucial role in selecting and organizing change initiatives.


13th Annual Healthcare Executive Forum - June 18 (afternoon) and June 19 (morning)
High Reliability, Just Culture & Psychological Safety Made Simple focuses on breaking down these critical concepts into practical, actionable strategies tailored for senior leaders in small and rural healthcare settings. 

 🎟 Event Registration & Details

13th Annual Healthcare Executive Forum - June 18 (afternoon) and June 19 (morning)
High Reliability, Just Culture & Psychological Safety Made Simple focuses on breaking down these critical concepts into practical, actionable strategies tailored for senior leaders in small and rural healthcare settings. 

 🎟 Event Registration & Details

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