Podcast

The State of Wellness Podcast is your go-to source for meaningful conversations and insights into Oregon's nursing community. Hosted and produced by the Oregon Center for Nursing, our bi-weekly podcast offers a space for the most pressing nursing workforce conversations.

In-Depth, Candid Interviews: Hear from leading experts in nursing, health care, and wellness. Our guests include researchers, practitioners, policy-makers, and thought leaders who share their insights and experiences.
Timely Topics: Dive into the most pressing topics and challenges that Oregon nurses are facing—from wages to maldistribution and more.
Practical Advice: Get actionable tips, strategies, and insights that you can use at every stage of your nursing career.

We invite you to be a part of our community. Listen to the State of Wellness Podcast on your favorite platform, and don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners.

Have questions, comments, or suggestions for future episodes? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at admin@oregoncenterfornursing.org or fill out our contact form.

Meet Your Host: Jana Bitton, OCN Executive Director

Jana is one of the few non-nurses in the United States who speaks fluent nurse. In 2009, she joined the world of nursing workforce when she accepted a position at the Oregon Center for Nursing as a Program Manager, which led her to be a Program Director, then the Development Director, and finally, the Executive Director. She is the Past President of the National Forum of State Nursing Workforce Centers, a nonprofit dedicated to providing support to nursing workforce centers nationwide. Jana holds a journalism degree, which allows her to tell amazing stories, and a master of public administration, which allows her to bring order to chaos. She has a background in marketing, nonprofit management, and local government.

2024-June

Podcast: The Oregon Nurse Practice Act: Key Takeaways for Everyday Practice

Confused about the legal boundaries of nursing in Oregon? Dr. Sarah Wickenhagen of the OSBN explains what every nurse needs to know about scope, licensing, and decision-making. Learn how to navigate complex situations with confidence and compliance.

2024-May

Podcast: Disciplinary Action and the Nursing Profession

What really triggers a nursing complaint in Oregon? Dr. Sarah Wickenhagen from OSBN sets the record straight on common violations, investigations, and public safety protections. Uncover the truth behind professional discipline and the complaint process.

2024-April

Podcast: How Much Do Oregon’s Registered Nurses Earn?

What does a typical RN earn in Oregon—and how far does that income really go? Dr. Richard Allgeyer unpacks OCN's latest wage study, offering new insights into the financial realities of nursing across the state. Explore the data that’s shaping workforce strategies.

2024-March

Podcast: Everything You Need to Know About the Oregon State Board of Nursing

Behind every license and investigation is a larger mission. Dr. Sarah Wickenhagen shares how OSBN is evolving to better serve nurses through real-time communication, community engagement, and new support initiatives. Discover the Board’s expanding role beyond regulation.