EP 103: Fired, Fought Back, and Made History: The Truth About Laura Gasparis

In this powerful episode of Nurses Uncorked, Nurse Erica sits down with legendary nurse educator and activist Dr. Laura Gasparis Vonfrolio for an unfiltered conversation about nursing, activism, and legacy. Laura opens up about her turbulent exit from the bedside during the early days of the pandemic, the harsh reality of workplace retaliation, and how she fought back when most nurses felt silenced.

She discusses her inspiring education journey from ADN to PhD, the controversy around using the title "Doctor" as a nurse, and why she refused to teach virtually during COVID. Laura also reflects on the seismic shifts in nursing culture over the last 30 years and the barriers that still prevent nurses from advocating for themselves.

We revisit the iconic 1995 nurse march on Washington, which Laura organized before the internet era—mobilizing over 35,000 nurses to demand better staffing ratios and workplace protections. She details the resistance she faced from hospital leadership and how it felt to stand on the Capitol steps as the voice of an entire profession.

Laura also weighs in on the failed 2022 National Nurses March, offering a candid look at why it fell short and what the future of nursing activism requires. From unionization to continuing education, and the mass exodus of new nurses, this episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about the profession.

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Laura Gasparis Vonfrolio RN, PhD:

https://greatnurses.com/

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   • Laura Gasparis Vonfrolio RN PhD - Nurses M...  

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