Amanda J. Maxwell

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today? Was there a moment that solidified your decision?

I’ve been a nurse for 15 years, primarily working in hospital and inpatient settings. Over time, I realized that what kept me in a role wasn’t the patients, the pay, or even the level of acuity—it was the leadership. A supportive supervisor and a culture of mutual respect made all the difference. That realization inspired me to pursue leadership myself. I decided I wanted to become a Director, not just to support one unit, but to create that same kind of environment across an entire hospital division.

What’s a professional challenge that still keeps you up at night, and how are you navigating it?

One of the biggest challenges I face—and one many nurses face daily—is setting and maintaining boundaries while still remaining therapeutic. Healthcare professionals often endure verbal or emotional abuse that goes unaddressed simply because we are compassionate by nature. It can feel “mean” or “wrong” to tell someone in pain that they must still treat us with respect.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked hard to recognize those moments, resist the urge to brush them aside, and address them directly in the moment. I also pursue ongoing learning to strengthen these skills and openly share what I learn with my colleagues. As a leader, I coach staff through these situations so they, too, can develop the tools to navigate them. Ultimately, I want to create a culture where disrespectful behavior is never tolerated.

What’s one accomplishment in your career that fills you with pride?

I spent five years working to improve access to multi-modal pain and comfort tools within the hospital setting and was able to publish that work. The project involved hundreds of patient interviews about their pain experiences, data analysis with the help of a Research Nurse Scientist and a Pain Management specialty team, and collaboration with hospital leadership.

The outcome was the development of “comfort carts,” which provided resources to patients and directly contributed to improved HCAHPS (Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) scores. Seeing comfort carts in hospitals today reminds me that I helped ensure access to these tools, and that impact fills me with pride.

What personal motto or belief keeps you grounded through the ups and downs?

One quote that has stayed with me is from the show Ted Lasso. He references what he says is a Walt Whitman quote: “Be curious, not judgmental.” That simple line reminds me that every situation is unique and not always what it seems on the surface. Taking time to understand someone’s story allows me to better lead, support, and collaborate with others.

Who is a woman—past or present—who has profoundly influenced you?

My mother. She is intelligent, loving, and deeply caring. She knows what makes her happy and has pursued it unapologetically, regardless of outside opinions. She’s steadfast in her values, endlessly supportive of her family, and never wavers in her belief that those she loves should live authentically. Her strength and integrity have been a constant source of inspiration in my life.

What’s one ritual or habit that keeps you focused and feeling like yourself?

Healthcare is an ever-changing field—no two days are the same. To stay grounded and show up as my best self, I begin each day with a short walk in nature. Stepping outside helps me feel centered, grateful, and connected to the world beyond work. It’s a daily reminder that while my career is important, life is about balance—finding joy in both the work we do and the experiences we share with the people we love.

Amanda J. Maxwell, RN, BSN, CMSRN, is an Acute and Critical Care Inpatient Nurse. She is passionate about creating supportive healthcare environments where both patients and staff can thrive. She specializes in nurse education, leadership, and quality improvement, and has published work on pain management in American Nurse Today. Currently completing her MSN in Nursing Education, she continues to focus on improving patient experiences and advancing the nursing profession.

Reprints of Boss Babes Magazine featuring Amanda J Maxwell on the cover are available through our on-demand print vendor.