We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Vann and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
Throughout my life, my guiding principle has been a deep-seated commitment to caring for others. This passion was evident even in my childhood, where I would play the role of a nurse, giving “shots” to my cousins. This early inclination naturally directed me towards nursing as a career. Immediately after high school, I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and have since dedicated over 30 years to this fulfilling profession.

My nursing career has been incredibly rewarding, providing me with the opportunity to touch countless lives. However, as I contemplated a transition to Panama, I encountered a significant challenge: the inability to practice as a nurse. This led me to consider how I could continue my journey of caring and make a meaningful impact in a new capacity.

Leveraging my extensive experience, I embarked on a path to become a certified professional life coach. This role allows me to continue supporting and guiding individuals, albeit in a different manner. During this transition, I became acutely aware of a critical issue that demands attention—the growing epidemic of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the stigma surrounding them.

There is a pervasive silence and shame associated with STIs, which often exacerbates the emotional and psychological burden on those affected. My mission is to break this silence and lead a movement to normalize conversations about sexual health. I envision a world where individuals are educated about STIs, empowered to take charge of their sexual health, and free from the stigma and shame that currently surrounds these diagnoses.

As I look towards the culmination of my career, I aspire to be at the forefront of this transformative effort. I aim to educate and equip a new generation with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from STIs, fostering a society where sexual health is openly discussed and respected. This mission is not just a professional goal but a personal calling to effect positive change on a global scale.

In essence, I want to end my career, having contributed to a world where sexual health conversations are normalized and the stigma surrounding STIs is eradicated. This vision of change is where I see my professional journey culminating—a life dedicated to caring, evolving into a legacy of education and empowerment in sexual health.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My professional journey in healthcare and coaching is one of resilience, passion, and a commitment to making a difference in people’s lives. When I graduated from college with my BSN, I faced significant challenges. I looked very young, and as a young Black nurse in a facility known for its racial undertones, I was often met with preconceived judgments and skepticism.

It wasn’t easy at first. The saying that “Black women have to work twice as hard to be just as good” resonated deeply with me during those early years. I often went home in tears, grappling with the weight of expectations and the struggle to prove myself in an environment that wasn’t always welcoming. However, I was determined to overcome these obstacles through thoroughness, knowledge, and a relentless commitment to excellence. My perseverance paid off, as I demonstrated not just my competence but my deep care for my patients.

Now, looking back on over 30 years in nursing, I am proud of the breadth and depth of my experience. I have had the privilege of caring for people across various settings—from hospitals and home care to ambulatory care and now, telehealth. This journey has taken me through multiple states, caring for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. The evolution from traditional nursing to the modern-day innovations like telehealth reflects the adaptability and forward-thinking nature that has defined my career.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career has been mentoring and encouraging others, both in their personal and professional lives. I’ve guided many through their own challenges, helping them find their paths and nurturing their growth. This passion for mentorship naturally led me to life coaching. As a certified professional life coach, I can now extend my impact beyond clinical care, helping individuals navigate their journeys and achieve their personal and professional goals.

What sets me apart is my unwavering belief in authenticity and love. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that being your authentic self is the cornerstone of genuine connection and effective care. Showing love and compassion in all interactions, whether in a hospital room or a coaching session, creates a foundation of trust and support that is essential for growth and healing.

One key lesson I’ve learned along the way is that you will never know everything, but you can always find out. This mindset fosters continuous learning and adaptability, qualities that are vital in both healthcare and life coaching. Embracing this philosophy has allowed me to grow and evolve, adapting to new challenges and opportunities as they arise.

As I continue my journey, my mission is clear: to normalize conversations about sexual health, eliminate the shame and stigma associated with STIs, and empower individuals to take control of their health and lives. My story is one of overcoming adversity, pursuing excellence, and striving to make a positive impact on the world.

Through my brand and my work, I want the world to know that genuine care, authenticity, and a commitment to growth are the foundations of lasting change and meaningful success. Whether through nursing or life coaching, I am dedicated to helping others thrive and live their best lives

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
This one was a little difficult since I am such a homebody.

Day 1: Welcome
Morning:
Breakfast at Crave: known for its delicious omelets, fresh juices, and cozy atmosphere.
Afternoon:
Visit Anaheim Packing House, a historic food hall. There is an awesome speakeasy called The Blind Rabbit.
Dinner at Orange Hill. The steaks are excellent, and the view is breathtaking.

Day 2:
Morning:
Drive to Temecula Wine Country and go to Wilson Creek Winery for the almond champagne.
Evening:
Dinner at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa for their Rhythm on the Vine® Concert Series.

Day 3:
Morning:
Spa Day at Glen Ivy Hot Spring with a massage and enjoy their therapeutic mineral baths, and mud pools.
Evening:
Go see the new Bad Boys at Anaheim GardenWalk.

Day 4:
Morning:
Explore Downtown Disney: Spend the morning wandering through Downtown Disney.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen: We can indulge in Cajun-Creole cuisine and live jazz music.
Evening:
Rooftop Music at The FIFTH: where we can snack, have a cocktail and look at stunning views of Disneyland’s fireworks.

Day 5:
Home Day: Binge-watch some of our favorite movies or series and enjoy each other’s company.
Door Dash for dinner.

Day 6:
Morning: A little hike in Peters Canyon Regional Park: It’s really pretty.

Day 7:
This is pack and head out day.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In reflecting on my journey, there is one person who stands out as the bedrock of my growth and development: my grandmother. She is the reason I am who I am today.

Growing up, my grandmother was a significant figure in my life, and I often perceived her as stern and stoic. Her demeanor was not what one might traditionally view as nurturing or soft, and as a child, I sometimes struggled to understand her approach. However, as I matured, I realized her steadfastness was a gift. She recognized my strong-willed and independent nature and understood that I needed a firm foundation to thrive.

My grandmother provided the structure and discipline that were essential in shaping my character. She taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of dedication, and the strength to face life’s challenges head-on. Her unwavering guidance helped me cultivate the resilience and compassion necessary for a career in nursing and, later, as a life coach.

Her influence was profound. She instilled in me a sense of responsibility not only to myself but also to those around me. She showed me that true care and support sometimes come in forms that are not immediately recognized but deeply impactful. Because of her, I have been able to navigate my path with confidence and a clear sense of purpose.

My grandmother’s legacy lives on in my work and how I interact with the world. She has left an indelible mark on my life, and I carry her teachings with me every day. Her strength and wisdom continue to inspire me as I strive to make a difference in the lives of others.

Website: https://www.straighttalkwithsissy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/straighttalkwsissy

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-vann-bsn-rn-cplc-4a8276236/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100079460571853

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/straighttalk-with-sissy-kansas-city?uid=_h3-4oAGrjSMqKU7gut3nQ&utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@straighttalkwithsissy

Other: Kindle:
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Emily+Vann&crid=2AKN8KU013243&sprefix=emily+bann%2Caps%2C219&ref=nb_sb_noss_2

Spotify:

Pinterest:

TokTok:

@straighttalkwithsissy

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