In today’s fast-paced and high-pressure healthcare settings, communication can become strained, reactive, and inconsistent. This session explores how stress, competing priorities, and interpersonal dynamics shape the way we interact with colleagues and patients. Participants will examine how their own habits and communication patterns shift under pressure and learn practical strategies to stay intentional, clear, and supportive.
Through reflective activities and guided discussion, attendees will build greater self-awareness, practice techniques for maintaining effective communication in challenging moments, and explore ways to foster open dialogue within their teams. The session emphasizes creating a culture where communication remains respectful, reliable, and collaborative—even in the most stressfilled environments.
Robyn Ewalt is a seasoned Leadership Development Consultant with Avera health Talent Development, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience, including more than a decade in primary care clinic administration. Her career began in the retail industry, where she spent 14 years before transitioning into health care 18 years ago.
In her current role, Robyn focuses on creating and delivering leadership development opportunities for formal leaders, emerging leaders, and informal influencers across the organization. She supports Avera's mission to:
Robyn is deeply engaged in her community. She has served for over a decade on the Aberdeen Area Chamber of Commerce Health and Wellness Committee and is the current Board President of Aspire, Inc. where she has been a board member for many years. She also volunteers regularly at her children's schools and clubs and is active in her church.
Robyn lives on a hobby farm just outside Aberdeen with her husband, Jeremy, their three children, and a lively group of four-legged companions.