When a Nurse’s Story Changes—Finding a New Path Through Creativity, Resilience & Community (With Melanie Van Sistine)

In this inspiring episode of Nurse Converse, Melanie Van Sistine of Mel's Crafty CoRNer shares her journey from canceled shifts and burnout during the pandemic to becoming a two-time Best of Nursing Award winner and full-time nurse entrepreneur. She opens up about navigating a serious back injury, losing income as a PRN nurse, and facing early business setbacks—all while trying to rediscover who she was beyond the bedside. Mel reveals how creativity became her lifeline and how resilience can look softer, quieter, and more human than we’re taught to believe.

This episode is a reminder that nurses are allowed to evolve, pivot, and dream beyond the roles they’ve always known. Whether you're feeling stuck, unseen, or uncertain about your next chapter, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are.

>>When a Nurse’s Story Changes: How Creativity, Resilience & Community Helped Me Find a New Path

Jump Ahead to Listen: 

[00:01:18] Finding purpose through creativity.
[00:06:29] Nurse Entrepreneur of the Year.
[00:08:39] Evolving as a nurse.
[00:12:10] Celebrating nurses beyond the bedside.

Connect with Melanie on social media:
Instagram: @mels.crafty.corner
TikTok: @mels.crafty.corner
Shop Mel's Crafty CoRNer!

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