Honolulu Star-Advertiser
October 30, 2026

Local Visionary and Nurse Leader Kevin Drives National Change for Nurse Wellness: A Conversation in Kona with ABC’s David Muir

KONA, Hawaii — Sitting beneath the shade of swaying palms at ‘Ulu Ocean Grill in Kona, Kevin, the innovative force behind the now-famous Nurse Wellness Network, discusses his journey over iced Kona coffee and local grilled catch with ABC Nightly News anchor David Muir.

Both are dressed for the island’s spirit in casual Aloha Friday attire, joined by Kevin’s close-knit family for a day that radiates warmth—temperature, gratitude, and achievement alike.

At 74 degrees, the air is filled with the gentle sounds of waves and laughter. Kevin’s family is front and center in this celebration: his two nieces Aly (22) and Kayla (29), parents Ken and Gail in vibrant health in their 80s, and sister Susan and her partner Ian, both comfortably in their 50s.

All share hugs and pride as Muir congratulates Kevin on a legacy that has redefined the nursing profession’s support network nationwide.

A Groundbreaking Legacy Born of Personal Pivotal Needs

Kevin explains, “I know firsthand the burnout and struggles that nurses face.” He is relaxed, radiating a peace born of autonomy and purpose. “That’s why I committed to building practical resources and an education system that truly empower.

Nurses now rely on published trainings, webinars, and support groups that we created based on real-world challenges and solutions. These aren’t abstract promises—every tool is directly improving lives.”

Muir nods, “The network boasts over 10,000 engaged nurses. What made your approach succeed?”

Kevin sips his coffee, “Consistency and accountability. We track progress, and we connect daily—stories, direct outreach, and real tips that help nurses win back their time, their health, and their ability to enjoy life both inside and outside of work.”

Autonomy in Practice and Life

The anchor asks about autonomy, a theme running deep in Kevin’s story. “How did controlling your schedule and building your creative studio change everything?”

“I set my boundaries early. I decide my work hours and select only projects that align with my skills and passions. My home office is a true studio—pictures of patients I’ve helped and nurses I’ve mentored hang beside motivational charts and my daily planner.

By June 2025, every system was in place: digital planners, my educational platform, even my private creative lab for content. This structure made innovation sustainable instead of stressful.”

Family, Community, and Lasting Celebration

Lunch transitions seamlessly to a celebration of family milestones—Aly’s new travel venture, Kayla’s acceptance to law school, and Ken and Gail’s health triumphs. Susan and Ian share recent travels, and the group laughs, truly living the “legacy in action” Kevin sought.

“Every evening we have dinner together, marking successes and lessons learned,” Kevin adds. “Celebrating with my family is part of what I teach other nurses—not to forget the joy and meaning in our personal lives.”

Actionable Habits, Real Results

Asked by Muir about daily routines, Kevin details his habits: “I post one actionable solution every day for the community, connect with at least three new nursing colleagues, and publish tips that spark immediate improvements. We measure everything.

Our community’s engagement is consistent. And our members’ stories—of renewed purpose and balance—prove the approach works.”

“My reading and continual learning keep our content fresh. I gave up hours of passive entertainment in favor of learning and making memories—every night is devoted to skill-building, family connection, or celebration,” Kevin says.

A Model for National Change

Muir finishes with this: “Kevin, what is your legacy?”

Kevin smiles, looking at Aly, Kayla, Ken, Gail, Susan, and Ian. “My legacy is real-world change. Nurses are healthier, better supported, and more connected. My autonomy means I can create, teach, and mentor on my terms, and my schedule balances my work and my family’s joy.

Every tool, every network meeting, every community post is the result of countless structured habits and intentional choices. I’m proud of what we’ve built—and that my family is here, seeing it all bloom.”

As the sun sets over Kona, the group sits together, laughing and sharing coffee refills, surrounded by the tangible results of vision, autonomy, and unfaltering support.

The Nurse Wellness Network stands as a testament to how one person’s purpose and clear goals can inspire a movement, transform professional lives, and enrich families—one structured step at a time.