In honor of Nurses Week, this episode of Still Caring shines a light on the people at the heart of healthcare. We sit down with Mary Beth Hunziker, VP of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Stillwater Medical, for a meaningful conversation about leadership, purpose, and the impact of nursing on our community.

From her early days at the bedside to leading nursing across the organization, Mary Beth shares how her journey has shaped her approach to caring for both patients and caregivers. We talk about what drew her to nursing, the essential role nurses play in the patient experience, and the resilience it takes to show up—day after day—for others.

Lee Bird has spent a lifetime showing up for others—and in this episode of Still Caring, she shares what that looks like on the front lines of the emergency room at Stillwater Medical. A former university vice president turned patient advocate volunteer, Lee brings both leadership and lived experience to her role, helping bridge the gap between clinical care and human connection in the ER.

From launching volunteer programs to sitting at the bedside during difficult moments, Lee offers a candid look at what it means to serve patients and families when they need it most. She also opens up about her own deeply personal connection to Stillwater Medical—where she credits the team with saving her life not once, but three times.

This conversation is a powerful reminder of the impact of compassion, the importance of community, and how even the smallest acts of care can make a lasting difference.

In this episode, Denise Webber, President and CEO of Stillwater Medical, joins us to discuss the many challenges facing today’s healthcare industry. She shares personal stories that offer both inspiration and caution as we work to deliver better, more patient-centered care within a strained system.

If you’re interested in healthcare leadership, rural health, patient-centered care, and the future of medicine, this episode delivers an honest and hopeful conversation about where we go next—and how we get there together. 

Learn more about Denise Webber 

The caregiver perspective is often overlooked, but it should not be. Lori Hunter gives a real look at what it means to support, advocate, and endure alongside someone you love.

This conversation focuses on the reality of living with a serious diagnosis, the intense and unpredictable moments that bring patients into the Emergency Department, and how compassion and trust in care can transform pain into purpose.

In this episode, we explore the powerful connection between curiosity and innovation with Sara Brown, Executive Director of Still Wonder. This program is designed to spark imagination and discovery in young minds. From hands-on learning to community-driven inspiration, the conversation highlights why nurturing curiosity in children is essential to developing the thinkers, problem-solvers, innovators and healthcare leaders of tomorrow. Learn how homegrown programs like Still Wonder are helping shape the next generation—and why investing in curiosity today can lead to a healthier, stronger community for years to come. ✨ 

Learn more about Sara Brown 

Cancer care in Stillwater is entering a new era. In this episode, we’re joined by Michael Chacko, medical physicist at Stillwater Medical, to discuss the latest breakthroughs in modern cancer treatment and the advanced technology now available locally. Michael shares how precision radiation therapy, safety protocols, and behind-the-scenes physics are improving accuracy and outcomes for patients across our community. This conversation offers valuable insight for patients, caregivers, and anyone interested in how Stillwater Medical is advancing cancer care close to home.

Join us as we sit down with Chad Weiberg, Athletic Director of Oklahoma State University, to discuss his unexpected journey through open heart surgery. Chad shares key insights about his diagnosis, the pivotal role of early screenings, and his path to recovery. Learn why self-awareness and routine health checks are crucial for everyone. Don't forget to schedule your own check-up today! #GoPokes #HeartHealth #PreventiveCare #HealthScreening

Before the conversations begin, get to know the voices behind Still Caring. In this episode, the hosts reflect on the experiences that shaped them, the moments that connected them to Stillwater Medical, and the shared belief that better health takes a village. They also share what they hope this podcast will create for patients, partners, and the community.