What if what looks like resistance is actually fear?
In this episode of The Relational Approach Podcast, Mindy Spigel, a nurse, author and speaker, shares how fear shows up in residents, families, as well as care teams, and how a relational mindset can transform those moments into trust-building opportunities.
Mindy introduces her unforgettable metaphor of having a “snake on your head” – a vivid way of understanding how fear and anxiety block people from truly hearing what we’re trying to say. Whether it’s admission day or a difficult care conversation, these moments are often flooded with emotion. And when fear goes unrecognized, it shows up as confusion, anger, or resistance.
Through powerful stories and practical strategies, Mindy shares how to ease fear by focusing on human connection, empathy, and meaningful communication. From first impressions to word choices, her approach will help you create deeper relationships with families and residents while also supporting your own emotional well-being as a care team member.
You’ll hear:
– How fear can block understanding and how to meet it with empathy
– Why first impressions shape long-term trust
– How thoughtful language and presence ease tension
Mindy’s insights are a powerful reminder that a Relational Approach isn’t just a philosophy, it’s a practical, everyday strategy that supports better care, deeper trust, and healthier workplaces.
Tune in to discover how you can tame the “snakes” in your day-to-day work and create a care culture rooted in trust, empathy, and connection.
About Mindy Spigel:
Mindy Spigel’s passion is helping people create meaningful connections as a leader, a team member, and while caring for customers. It is her desire to alleviate patient fears, build trust, and create an exceptional experience for all.
Mindy is proud to be a nurse with both a Masters and Bachelors degree in Nursing. Mindy is a certified Patient Experience Professional (CPXP) with experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. As an educator, Mindy has taught in both academic and clinical settings. Mindy has been honored to have presented at numerous National, State and local conferences and provided consultation and coaching to various organizations.
Mindy conducted research on patients and families fears in the healthcare setting and the most important things we can do to alleviate their fears. She has published her paper on Beryl Institute research site and has published a book entitled, “There’s a Snake on My Head! Strategies for Alleviating Fear and Anxiety in Healthcare.”
You can connect with Mindy here:
Linkedin.com/in/mindyspigel
Website: Mindyspigel.com
Watch Mindy’s TEDx Talk here
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