About this episode

In this episode of the Marquis Masters podcast, host Ryan Estes speaks with Nina Kelly, mythologist, author, and longtime healthcare professional, about the powerful connections between storytelling, mythology, medicine, music, and human resilience. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in organ donation, transplantation, and end-of-life care, Kelly shares how her unconventional approach to patient care led to pioneering research exploring the role of story and imagery in kidney transplant recovery. She also discusses her academic journey, the influence of New Orleans on her worldview, her love of jazz, and her mission to help younger generations discover the importance of kindness, courage, and environmental stewardship.

Nina Kelly is a mythologist, author, and former healthcare professional whose career has bridged organ donation, transplantation, end-of-life care, the arts, and community service. After more than three decades in medicine, she pursued doctoral studies in mythology, combining her clinical experience with research into the role of storytelling and imagery in patient recovery. She has also written about music, human resilience, and the importance of nurturing curiosity and compassion in children.

Her books include Grace Has a Silent Voice, which explores the resilience of the human spirit in times of tragedy, and Honeybee Treehouse, a children's book focused on the importance of bees and the natural environment. Her children's stories featuring Athena encourage readers to practice kindness and face their fears with courage.

Learn more about Nina Kelly, explore her books, and connect with her work at NinaMKelly.com.