Susan Branagan, BSN, RN
Susie Branagan, BSN, RN, is a seasoned healthcare leader with 26 years of experience spanning bedside nursing, mental health, pediatric care, and executive leadership. She has dedicated her career to creating safe, compassionate, and psychologically healthy workplaces. As the Founder and CEO of Susie Branagan Consulting, Susie leverages her extensive clinical expertise and leadership experience to transform organizational culture, implement trauma-informed care, and advance patient safety across healthcare systems. Throughout her career, Susan has demonstrated a commitment to both staff and patient well-being. She has held leadership roles in high-acuity environments, including pediatric psychiatry and detox units, where she successfully implemented Just Culture frameworks, evidence-based safety protocols, and innovative technology solutions. Her work has consistently led to measurable improvements in patient outcomes, staff engagement, and operational efficiency. Susie's trauma-informed approach to leadership has been especially impactful in supporting healthcare professionals through burnout, workplace stress and trauma, and complex care challenges. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Susie is deeply committed to mentorship, community service, and advocacy. She actively coaches emerging healthcare leaders and anyone going through trauma, volunteers in youth sports programs, and champions initiatives that promote psychological safety and employee well-being. Susie also sits on boards for AI companies looking to introduce their product into healthcare systems, making sure the nurses' voice is always heard, as they are the end-users. Her approach is grounded in integrity, personal workplace trauma, empathy, and respect, reflecting a career-long dedication to fostering environments where both patients and staff feel safe, heard, and appreciated.
• BSN
• Registered Nurse
• Just Culture Certified Trainer
• Yellow Belt in Performance Improvement
• White Belt in Performance Improvement
• Abuse Prevention Systems Certification
• Saint Anselm College – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Accelerator of Change
• New Emerging Leader of 2013
• Nursing Assistant of the Year
• The Marc A. Susi Scholarship Award
• Essential Hospitals Fellow in Leadership 2023
• Recipient of the 2026 ICF Scholarship
• Academy of Forensic Nursing
• Organization of Nurse Leaders
• International Coaching Federation
• Girls Soccer Coach
• Head Basketball Coach of Girls Junior Celtics
• Boys and Girls Soccer Coach
• Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of lived experience, perseverance, and professional dedication. Navigating personal and professional challenges has given me the empathy, resilience, and insight to lead teams effectively, transform workplace culture, and advocate for patients and staff alike.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to ensure I have a strong support system. In healthcare, you will witness trauma and hardship, and having the right personal and professional support is critical to sustain your impact.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women to educate themselves thoroughly on the realities of healthcare. You will encounter trauma and complex patient needs; being prepared and supported is essential. Remember that helping even one person can make a meaningful difference.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is addressing healthcare workforce burnout while implementing trauma-informed and psychologically safe workplace practices. Opportunities exist to integrate technology and Just Culture frameworks to improve patient safety and enhance staff well-being.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, compassion, and psychological safety are central to my professional and personal life. I strive to lead with empathy, empower others, and advocate for environments where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.