Still A Nurse

Episode 49Hey Listeners! Sorry to have disappeared for a bit there. Some exciting life decisions and changes have popped up and Still a Nurse has had to take a back seat for a while till things normalize again. This is the caboose episode for season 4! I assure you that Still a Nurse will be back, but it may take some time. So please be patient with me! You all probably know by now that I have a special place in my heart for Hospice. As such, I am very excited to share some absolutely wonderful nursing stories from the hospice world today! Meet Nurse Hadley, she is a super fun and stellar hospice nurse out in the state of Louisiana and she has so much to teach YOU about hospice care. In her opinion (and mine), hospice nursing is how ALL nursing should be. If you are wanting more interaction time with your patient and their caregivers, then do yourself a favor and listen to this episode! And if you want to know more about Nurse Hadley and learn what hospice is really like, follow her on social media where she gives fun and interesting insights into what her job is like! See the notes below for mor info!Show Notes: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursehadley?source=h5_m To follow Nurse Hadley on Tiktok click the link above.https://www.instagram.com/nurse.hadley/?hl=en To follow her on Instagram click this linkhttps://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/709707/the-in-between-by-hadley-vlahos-rn/ To learn more about Hadley's book The In-Between, Click this linkTo be a guest on the show and share YOUR nursing story, reach out to me at soelberg90@gmail.com

Episode 48Welcome SaN listeners to the year 2023! Our guest this week is here to encourage any out there who long to be a nurse, but are not sure if they have missed that train. Mindy is a wonderful woman who knew from a young age that nursing would one day be her thing. Life sometimes has a way of sending our plans off course however, and her time for nursing was pushed back. Working first as a dental assistant, then enjoying time as a stay at home mother, she did not begin Nursing school until her kids were all in school and she was 45. Achieving your goals can sometimes take longer than anticipated, and that is not necessarily a bad thing. Mindy's experiences as a dental assistant, and mom all helped her become a more excellent nurse. Her advice to others? Try! Don't give up on your nursing dreams even if they are late in coming! It is better to try nursing than to live with regret for letting the opportunity slip by. Take a listen and be inspired!

Episode 47My guest this week is an incredible woman who started in obstetrics and discovered a passion for nurse leadership and desire to learn more. After earning her MBA she found she had a unique skill set to fix a problem she found while working as a nurse director. The financial reports continuously showed the need for fewer nurses in her units, when her experience working in those areas, and the nurses she was over, told her the exact opposite. Tune in to hear how Heidi is using her natural grit to disrupt hospital reporting to show the actual nurse staffing needs in the obstetrical realm. Join along as Heidi shares with us her fascinating journey into and through the nursing world, and how she is using her experiences to create solutions to a big problem.Show Notes:Website - Parity Healthcare Analytics - Company websiteLinkedIn - Parity Healthcare Analytics - Company LinkedIn PageHeidi E. Morin, RN, MSN, MBA, FABC | LinkedIn - Heidi's LinkedIn PagePARITY DEMO - Link to request Parity Product Demo for Perinatal Nurse LeadersChallenging the Status Quo to Innovate the Future of Nurse Productivity and Benchmarking - Heidi E. Morin - AWHONN Convention Podium Presentation Publication in JOGNN (2020)Development of a Staffing Activity Tool That Works - Heidi E. Morin - AWHONN Convention Poster Publication in JOGNN (2017)

Episode 46Are you searching for an adventure but not sure how to make that work with your nursing career? Travel nursing could be the answer for you! While my guest this week is not a nurse, she is currently the president of RN network, a travel nurse staffing agency that staffs all across the US. With 24 years of experience in this field, Lynne Grosse shares what RN network can offer you and your nursing career. From more flexibility, the opportunity to travel and explore, great benefits, competitive pay, and a fantastic network of support from the company, it seems RN network has it all! Show Notes:https://rnnetwork.com/about-rnnetwork/ To learn more about RN network and connect with one of their recruiters, click here.https://www.linkedin.com/company/rn-network/ To hear some nurse stories and follow RN network on LinkedIn, click here.https://chghealthcare.com/ RN network is under a parent company called CHG Healthcare. Click the link above to learn more about them.

Episode 45*I apologize for my bad sound in this episode. I had technical difficulties and had to use the mic that would work at the moment. Unfortunately it was the laptop mic. My guest however has fabulous sound, so I know you will enjoy listening to him.*If you are a creative thinker, have an entrepreneurial spirit, and like solving problems you see in nursing, then this episode is DEFINITELY for you! My guest this week, Zach, worked at the bedside for 6+ years before taking his nursing knowledge to uncharted waters. He shares why he chose nursing over advertising in college, how he taught himself marketing skills, those skills and his nursing experience to help start successful businesses all aimed at helping nurses. So how does nursing translate into the marketing world? Tune in to find out for yourself!Show Notes:https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-smith-bsn-rn-a781bb30/ To connect with Zach Smith on LinkedIn, click the link above.https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6983912076272427008/ Click here to check out this cool commercial Zach wrote and assistant directed for nursing shoes.https://nursegrid.com/ Click here to check out the nurse Grid calendar app Zach helped launch.

Episode 44We all have areas of nursing that we hope to work in someday. Some of us achieve those dreams and never want to leave. Others work tirelessly, get the job of their dream only to find out that unit is more like a nightmare and leave discouraged. Today's guest falls into another group. Those who fully expect to end up in one area of nursing only to find their true passion somewhere unexpected. Keeley was determined to become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) until she did her preceptorship in the NICU and fell in love with the work and the patients there. Our nursing dreams do not always turn out the way we plan them, sometimes they turn out better, as is the case for Keeley. Her love of the NICU is clear to hear in her voice as she shares the joyful, and the difficult experiences that come from working in the NICU, and how she has learned to balance her emotions with the situations work throws her way.  Tune in to have your questions about life as a NICU nurse answered!

Episode 43I am not really sure how this season of Still a Nurse ended up with so many L&D nurses, but I am certainly not complaining.  I love hearing all your Labor and Delivery experiences and seeing where they take you in the wonderful world of nursing! Each nurse has shared a unique perspective and insights from their experiences in this realm of nursing that are valuable to our listeners. This weeks episode is certainly no different. Tara, my guest this week on SaN, had a longer and more challenging path into nursing than some, but she eventually found her home base caring for laboring women.  Nursing as a career is a physically and emotionally demanding one, and occasionally brings danger. Just take a listen to Tara's amusing and bizarre stories to see what I mean.   Her stories are something else! Show Notes:https://nursing.post.edu/programs/doctor-of-nursing-practice/ To learn more about the undergraduate and online graduate programs Post has to offer, click here.

I LOVE talking with nurses! Each one has a unique story, career path, and experiences that have taught me so much since starting this podcast. My guest today, Karen Furr is no exception! One question I ask all my guests is why nursing? Of all the careers out there in the world you could have chosen, why this one? Karen's answer is a bit surprising, and I am glad she answered so openly and honestly. (you will have to listen to get the story)Like many RNs, Karen has dealt with surprising setbacks and challenges in life. During those times she was glad to find that nursing is versatile enough to adapt to her needs in various stages of life. However, one of these setbacks opened her eyes to the very real difficulty of burnout. Not only did this remarkable nurse find her own way through burnout to resiliency, but has made it her mission to help others as well.Take a listen to see what tips Karen has to help YOU on your path to becoming a resilient nurse!Show Notes:https://www.rnproject.org/ Karen's website for the Resilient Nurse Project. If you are looking for a helpful resource to overcome burnout and become a resilient individual, click the link.https://paperravenbooks.com/theresilientnursebook Here is a link to check out Karen's book.https://resilientnursebox.com/ CODE: STILL  This is a link to buy Karen's book with a discount code. Don't miss out on this discount!To find/follow Karen on social media, you can find her on Facebook and Instagram under the name  @theresilientnurseproject

Episode 41Welcome back Still a Nurse fans!Today's episode highlights once again, just how versatile the nursing profession can be. My guest Benny, an NP, shares with us how and why he chose to dive into nursing, how he has created a career schedule that allows him to live the life he loves, gives incredible advice to nursing students who may be struggling, and shares a great story of a run away patient. Tune in to hear Benny's wonderful words of wisdom, details to his funny story, and learn from his experiences in the fabulous world of nursing!Show Notes:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bengt-c-lock-fnp-c-144573198 to connect with Benny on LinkedIn, click here.

Episode 40Howdy there Still a Nurse fans, and thanks for tuning in to this weeks episode!My guest this week was actually a professor of mine back in nursing school and a darn good one too!Now, have any of you wondered what that PhD does in the world of nursing? I am pleased to be able to share the answer to that with you all today. Francine does an excellent job in breaking down the why's of getting this advanced nursing degree and even explains what you can do with one as well. She makes a compelling argument for why the nursing field needs more individuals with this credential to really impact nursing as a whole.  Tune in to hear the unique and little known niche of nursing that she is working to improve for a needy population.  Francine is a marvelous teacher and you will be amazed at all you will learn in this episode! PLUS along the way she also shares an embarrassing mix up that you will not want to miss! Show Notes:-https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-almanac/national-center-complementary-integrative-health-nccih#:~:text=October%201998%20%E2%80%94%20The%20National%20Center,105%2D277 Early on in the episode Fran and I discuss how the medical field seems to be integrating traditional medicine and complimentary and integrative medicine. This is a study Fran found to demonstrate this progress.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2946124/#:~:text=Yale%20joined%20the%20Consortium%20of,clinical%20practice%2C%20in%20November%202006 This is another article that Fran found to show how Yale has joined a consortium of complimentary and integrative medicine.

Episode 39Hello SaN fans! I have a real treat for you today! My guest this week is Janine Kelbach and she is a pure delight to listen to. I know you are all going to enjoy this episode as Janine is one of those bright spots in the world that is bound to put a smile on your face! She is down to earth and tells it like it is as she describes her journey from a Burger King employee, to discovering a love for nursing and Labor and Delivery. Like many of us, Janine's path has led her to some very unexpected places, and handed her unique opportunities. And, while I know we have had quite a few nurse writers on the show, I promise you are not going to want to skip this one! Janine's path to become a nurse writer was unexpected and has led to an amazing full time business that could greatly influence your own life. I am not going to spoil the show here and tell how though. Tune in to this weeks episode to see what Janine's business, Write RN, could do for you!Show Notes:https://writern.net/ Check out Janine's website herehttps://savvynursewriter.com/ Join Janine's writing class herehttps://writern.net/book/ Check out Janine's book EntrepreNURSE here. Entreprenurse includes contributions from 30+ nurses that summarizes more than 15 careers nurses can do away from the bedside, ranging from creative work to managing a home care business. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-savvy-scribe/id1452676453?mt=2 Janine even has a podcast! Check out the Savvy Scribe using this link.

Episode 38Hello SaN listeners! Welcome to the first episode of SEASON 4!It has been such an awesome experience hosting this show and getting acquainted with so many amazing nurses! I am really looking forward to sharing this new batch of experiences, stories, laughs, grimaces, encouragement, and inspiration with you all. All of my guests have wonderful and insightful experiences to share with all of us and I know that I have personally learned and grown a ton throughout this process, and I hope you all have as well!Kicking off this new season we are keeping it very real with night shift Labor and Delivery veteran, nurse Anna. She truly has an amazing message to share with nurses in all areas of care, and some great stories of heartache and growth as well. Tune in to this episode to hear how Anna gets real and dives into the good, the hard, and the necessity of having co-workers you can rely on in nursing. Stay tuned in to the last few minutes to hear a fun and surprising fact about Anna and how she has managed to balance family, night shifts, and personal time for so long.Want to hear your nursing stories featured on the Still a Nurse podcast? Let me know at soelberg90@gmail.com. I would LOVE to hear from you!

Huge shout out to all you marvelous listeners out there for getting Still a Nurse podcast to over 2,500 Downloads! Whoooot! I am so grateful to all of you out there, whether you have just discovered this show or are long time listeners. I have learned SO much on this journey and have truly LOVED getting to chat with and meet so  many fabulous nurses from across a large spectrum in the nursing field. I hope you have enjoyed learning more about what nursing has to offer alongside me! This is NOT the end of Still a Nurse podcast! Season 4 will be coming in a few months so stay tuned! I am currently in my "gathering" phase and seeking more interesting nursing stories to share with you all. With that being said PLEASE contact me! I would love to connect, hear your stories and share them with everyone. You can contact me on Instagram at @still.a.nurseor via email at soelberg90@gmail.com.

Episode #37 Show Notes:So many of us get into nursing school with a preconceived notion of what we want our nursing career to look like, only to either have that change through our schooling experience or have it blocked from us for a time. This is the case for my guest this week, Melissa, an RN in Las Vegas, NV. When her nursing job of choice was unavailable she found alternative jobs that not only showed her the various places nursing can lead, but also continued to add valuable nursing tools, knowledge, and skills to her "tool box".  True she may not have landed her "dream job" yet, but she is becoming a better, wiser, and more experienced nurse through her adventures in the "atypical" jobs she has found. Tune in to learn how this wonderful nurse overcame doubts and fears about nursing school, what neat jobs she has discovered and enjoyed, and her two most important lessons she has learned from nursing so far!Links:https://www.acacamps.org/links/association-camp-nursing Interested in working as a camp nurse? Click here to learn more about the associations of camp nurses!http://www.facebook.com  and http://www.instagram.comTired of looking at Indeed.com and other sites to find a job? Try Melissa's method and turn to social media to see what you can learn about "other"nursing jobs.

Episode 36So you have been in your area of nursing for 20+ years. You are an expert in your specialty and have seniority. And, you are getting bored. It happens. But, as my guest this week shows so well, that do NOT mean you need to leave nursing to find something new to interest or challenge you! Julie is a veteran, pro, superhero, take your pic, in the Labor and Delivery/nursery area. She earned her stripes, went back to school even to get into those management roles and absolutely LOVED being and L&D nurse. But rather than finish out her career where she started, she decided to take a step into the unknown and came to appreciate just how versatile and exciting nursing really is. Tune in to hear funny and touching stories, and all the details of her journey to see where nursing has taken her since stepping out of her L&D shoes!

Epsiode 35Hello Still a Nurse Listeners! Thanks for hanging in there with me for a bit while life got crazy.I am so happy I had a minute with the laptop to bring you a new episode!Burnout. It can happen no matter which area of nursing you are in. So, what does it look like and what can you do to keep it from stripping you of your nursing desires and aspirations? My guest this week, Emily Mazurak, draws upon her own personal experience with burnout and shares exactly how she managed to turn things around and come back as a stronger and more capable nurse. Listen to the end to learn more about the Fill Up Your Cup Project  and how she may be able to help you through your own burnout struggles. Links: http://fillupyourcupproject.com  Click here to explore the Fill Up Your Cup websiteFollow Emily on Instagram @emily.mazurak

Hey Still a Nurse crew!Sorry for the silence on my part here. Life throws some crazy things at us right? Never fear though! More episodes ARE forthcoming in the next few weeks! Once I get my family all settled and cozy in our new home and have access once again to all my podcast gear, I will be back at it and have more nursing stories to share. Coming up in the next few episodes you will hear about life coaching in the realm of nursing and how that can help with burn out. And you will get to hear great stories from a veteran women's health nurse.  So be patient with me a little longer and I will get those up just as soon as I can!

Episode 34This week we have the opportunity to dive into the chaos and stress that was caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in a California hospital system. I know, I know, we are all sick if hearing about this darn pandemic. However, I found my discussion with nurse Rylee to be very eye opening. While her nursing career has only been going for 3 years, I have to say she is a true veteran of nursing after everything she experienced in the height of the COVID outbreak. Like so many nurses, she felt burnt out and uncertain about her nursing future.  Upon moving back to Utah from California she heard about a new and very different work situation that would allow for more flexibility. Take a listen to hear about her difficult experiences, amusing stories, and her work situation now, and where Nursa fits in. If you have nursing stories you would like to share, email me at soelberg90@gmail.com!If you are a fan of the show, please share it with your nursing friends, and leave us a review wherever you listen to podcasts.Links:https://nursa.com/ click here to learn more about Nursa.https://www.uvu.edu/nursing/ Click here to explore the UVU nursing programs.

Episode 33It should be no surprise by now to hear that I LOVE talking to nurses. I learn so much from each nurse I have the privilege to speak to  whether they are fresh out of school or 30+ years under their belts. Today's guest is no exception. With 35 years of nursing experience, Sandra Albrecht of Ontario Canada, has a wealth of knowledge to share with all of us!  Her experiences have an amazingly wide range as well from ICU, and obstetrics, to Charge nurse, ER, and middle management, all the way up to senior management over part of the operations of a hospital. Sandra is a perfect example in where nursing can take you! From the adrenaline rush and stress of an ER and now to healthcare outside of the hospital with digital health, Legal Nurse experience, and more! So get comfortable and take a listen. With so much to learn, you will be happy you took the time for this episode!Links:http://www.nursingthesoul.info/ Click here to learn more about what Sandra does as a life coach and see if she could be a good resource for you.sandra.albrecht@nursingthesoul.info Contact Sandra here is you want to know more about her life coaching.https://www.instagram.com/nursingthesoul_coaching/ Click here to follow Sandra on Instagram

Episode # 32Nursing is such a fascinating career. No matter how many nurses I get to talk with, I always learn something new and interesting. Todays episode is no different. Meet todays guest, Alexa Davidson, MSN, RN and learn from her experiences and expertise in the realm of Pediatric Cardiac ICU. She demonstrates perfectly how nursing can literally take you from coast to coast as she became a travel nurse in the U.S.  Alexa shares what a shift is really like working in the PICU, the perks of travel nursing, and which qualities set you up for success in these roles. It is no surprise that being in a high stress role such as PICU leads many nurses to burn out. Alexa shares her own personal story with this and how she decided to handle the situation and what she is up to now. You do not want to miss the fantastic stories from Alexa's career that will have you laughing, and remind you how awesome nursing truly is. Take a listen and enjoy!If you like what you hear in this episode, tell your friends about us! And please  consider rating our show where ever you listen to podcasts. Thanks!-Tristan   Still a NurseLinks:https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexadavidsonrn/ Click here to find Alexa on LinkedInhttps://www.thearticulatern.com/ Click here to learn more about Alexa's start up.https://www.instagram.com/articulate_rn/ Click here to find Alexa on Instagramhttps://nursekeith.com/ Click here to learn more about the mentor that helped Alexa find her new path in nursing, Nurse Keith.https://savvynursewriter.com/dashboard/ Click here to learn more about the nurse writing course Alexa took from Janine Kelbach

Episode 31Working in the hospital setting is not for everyone, though many often feel pushed in that direction when looking for that first nursing job. But what do you do  as a nurse if you do not really want to work in a hospital or clinic? Our guest this week Sadie Glisson, BSN and Founder/CEO of The Remote Nurse, had these same questions after graduation.  After having an "existential crisis",  she found an atypical nursing job working with medicaid insurance, as a care coordinator for the pediatric special needs population. This position led her to other non-traditional nursing roles with nursing informatics, data abstraction, and eventually a remote nursing job. In all she has had very little in person interaction with patients, but has used her nursing degree and knowledge every step of the way. Tune in to this episode and learn what remote nursing really is, so that you can determine whether it is a suitable career path for you!Links:https://theremotenurse.com/ Click here to explore the remote nurse homepage, become a member, and learn all about remote nursing opportunities.https://www.instagram.com/theremotenurse/ Click here to follow The Remote Nurse on instagramhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/remotenursingjobs Click here to join the remote nursing jobs facebook page.https://www.facebook.com/theremotenurse/ To follow The Remote Nurse on Facebook, click here.

Episode 30Student debt is so prevalent in America today and it is a terrible burden. My episode today strays from the norm as my guest is not a nurse, but a writer for the Wall Street Journal. Rebecca Ballhaus goes into great detail about an article she and her co-author, Rebecca Smith, wrote for the Wall Street Journal about a federal program to help ease the burden of student debt for healthcare professionals. Tune in and learn from Rebecca what this program is called, how it strives to help healthcare professionals, and how it is financially ruining others. Though the full article highlights professionals of various backgrounds, Rebecca and I focus only on the nurses. Check out the links at the bottom if you want to read the full article. Links:https://www.wsj.com/articles/program-to-cut-healthcare-providers-student-debt-sticks-some-with-even-more-11644421910?page=1 Click here to find the article discussed in this episode.https://www.wsj.com/news/author/rebecca-ballhaus Click here to find more articles by Rebecca Ballhaushttps://nhsc.hrsa.gov/ Click here to learn more about the National Health Service Corps

Episode 29I am constantly amazed by what nurses are able to accomplish when they find something they are passionate about. Whether that be working in one specific of nursing for decades, switching to new areas of nursing to broaden their knowledge and abilities, returning to school for further education, or starting a new business within nursing. I have learned that nursing has great variety to be uncovered, and that nurses themselves are a powerful force to be reckoned with. My guest today, Judy, a nurse in Hawaii, is one such individual. While working full time and progressing in her Masters of Nursing program she rediscovered her love of writing. After working for 15 years as a nurse, she decided she is ready to try something new in nursing, something "Fun".  Tune in to learn how she is working to turn this rekindled passion into a side hustle. And perhaps you will find the inspiration you need to turn your skills, talents, or hobbies, into a side hustle of your own!Show Links:judy-campbell.com to learn more about Judy and her freelance writing go to this website. You can find and connect with Judy on Instagram at @nurse.and.writer linkedin.com/in/judycampbellrn -Find Judy on LinkedInCommission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC) (ccmcertification.org) Click here to learn more about case management certification.

Nursing is a labor of love. Love for the patients we care for, love for the profession and skills, love for the ability to truly help people when they are in desperate need. But what do you do when your own health declines and prevents you from being the best nurse you can be?  What if bedside nursing is no longer an option? When the very career you are so passionate about seems to be closed to you, do you give up? Or do you find another way to still be a nurse? Our guest this week is Ashley Hay of Ahaynursing, did the latter and found her way onto a new and little known path of nursing, that of nurse writing.Take a listen as Ashley shares her journey into nursing and how she overcame challenging roadblocks to pivot into nurse entrepreneurship as a writer. If you are like me and had no clue this was even an avenue for nurses, you're in for a treat with this episode! Show Notes:Desired from an early age to become a pediatric nurse in oncology.Ashely admits that her nursing path was "not a straight line".She started off trying out her state college in New Jersey and hated that experience. She was there one semester and dropped out.Instead did her own research and found a small local nursing school and found that a much better fit, and really hit her stride.While she absolutely loved her roles as a bedside/floor nurse, her health eventually prevented her from continuing in that work. First job was in adult oncology at a big hospital in New York.oncology is an area of nursing that often leads to burn out. Ashley was able to beat this by changing jobs within oncology. changing from adults to peds for example.Ashley had the difficult realization that her health was making it so she was not the nurse she would have wanted at her bedside. Her husband helped encourage her to find a different avenue in nursing that would not have such a negative impact on her own health. Stumbled upon nurse writing, found a few fantastic mentors to help her get started.Ashley shares tips on how to get into the medical/nurse writing path.5 years ago started her own freelance writing and clinical consulting business.Her advice: "Just be patient" it takes time for your business to get going, but there are others there to help you out.Links:https://allnurses.com/ Ashley suggests starting here if you are interested in becoming a nurse writer. https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahaynursing/ To find Ashley Hay on Linkedin, click here.https://ahaynursing.com/ To learn more about Ashley and her writing business, check out her website here.https://ahaynursing.contently.com/ Ashley was willing to share her writing portfolio to help you get ideas on what you can write about as a medical/nurse writer.https://stillanurse.co/ check out our new and evolving website here.

One of my favorite parts of hosting the Still a Nurse podcast is the exposure it offers to differing points of view. I love discovering alternative career paths and new ideas regarding this field. Today's guest has years of experience with both traditional and herbal medicine and a perspective that may challenge your opinions and assumptions. I'm very interested to hear listeners' thoughts on this topic. You can leave comments on stillanurse.co. As always, nothing contained in this or any episode constitutes medical advice.  So keep an open mind and Enjoy!Show Notes:Angie earned her RN in 1991 and has a passion for maternal/fetal medicine.She currently works as a home health and hospice nurse.It was through her work as a nurse that she began to take an interest in herbal/natural medicine.Angie has put a lot of time into researching and learning about herbs through books, classes, and just studying on her own. Angie and some of her like minded friends were able to be adopted into a Native American tribe and become a medicine woman.While working as a nurse Angie feels she has to keep her passion for herbal medicine to herself and works strictly as an RN. That being said, she loves to help people gain greater health using her knowledge of natural medicine on her own time.Angie works with her daughter, a personal trainer, to help individuals on the road to better health.She hopes that some day, her two areas of health and medicine will be able to go hand in hand.Links:https://homegrownherbalist.net/?rfsn=5938502.8fa9bd&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=5938502.8fa9bd If you are interested in becoming an herbalist, this is an Angie's affiliate link for a class that she has taken and recommends. It is with Homegrown Herbalist Dr. Jones.sweetthymeteas@gmail.com  If you would like to order her book directly from her or talk to Angie about herbs and natural medicine, she has kindly shared her contact info.https://www.amazon.com/What-When-Moms-Not-Here/dp/1987416864/ref=sr_1_1?crid=18Y4PSXGR7JA5&keywords=what+to+do+when+moms+not+here&qid=1642631929&sprefix=what+to+do+when+mom+%2Caps%2C301&sr=8-1This is the title for Angie's self published book. The link will take you to the amazon page where you can order her book if you prefer to go through Amazon.https://stillanurse.co/ To check out the official Still a Nurse podcast website click here!

How often have you come home from your 12+ hour shift drained and tearful over the difficulties you faced that day? Have you often thought about how that shift would have been better if their had only been enough nurses to go around? Has a solution to your particular problem ever come to mind? But, did you actually DO anything about it? My guest this week is an extraordinary woman who did just that, starting not one but TWO different companies to help the nursing world in her own "little way". Listen in as Fumi shares why and how she started Valley Of Joy Homecare, and later Valley Of Joy Medical Staffing, how she pushed on through the tough times, and what her message is for the nursing community at large. Get ready to be inspired!Show Notes:Became a nurse in 2012Stayed with and cared for her grandmother who had early dementia starting at the age of 18 and grew to love the elderly community.In 2017 started a home care agency called Valley Of Joy Homecare in Pennsylvania to make home care more accessible to the elderly in her community.When COVID-19 hit in 2019 she saw another need and decided to start another company, Valley of Joy Medical Staffing, to fill that need.Fumi has a rare gift in that she is able to see a need in nursing, realize she can do something to help, and then puts in the time to research and get the job done. Starting a business is challenging. Fumi has found that using the Department of Human Services and nursing boards were both very helpful in learning how to start a nursing business. What is the draw to working for a staffing agency? Travel nursing. With her agency you can even travel with your family and they will find lodging for you. And the pay is pretty good too!Finding a balance with nursing,  family time and running a business proved to be too much. Fumi learned she needed to hire more help and step back into an administrative role to have more time with her family.Fumi's advice for those who have an idea they would like to pursue as an entrepreneur: "As a nurse, you are already special. Just go for it. Listen to your heart... Don't hold back. Just keep pushing as nurses. You can do this!"Businesses take a while to get rolling. Don't expect to make money right away. Fumi says it took about 3 years before her first company was well established and providing income. More advice, hold off on getting funding until after your company is already bringing in a little money. Hold off getting into debt as long as you can. What kept Fumi going when times were tough and it was tempting to give up? The patients and clients she was trying to help. She would look at them and be motivated once more seeing how badly they needed her services. Fumi's staffing agency is making a big impact in her area. In one nursing facility they were able to boost the nursing staff from 25% capacity up to 67%. She notes that placing more nurses in these facilities has decreased the number of falls as there are more eyes and hands available to help the patients. Finally Fumi shares that her experiences becoming a nurse entrepreneur has taught her to "never give up!"Show Links:http://www.valleyofjoyhomecare.com/home Click here to find out more about the homecare company Fumi started.https://valleyofjoymedicalstaffing.com/ Click here to learn more about the medical staffing agency Fumi started.https://nyweekly.com/business/fumi-ogunsemore-establishes-valley-of-joy-medical-staffing-to-help-hospitals-and-healthcare-professionals-serve-pat

 Curious about what rural nursing is all a bout? Well, it is true what they say about small towns, everyone knows your name. It is especially true when you are the sole medical provider in your small rural community. My guest this week, Nancy, DNP is familiar with the charm that all her small town life has to offer. She has also discovered that being an nurse practitioner and primary care provider gains her the respect and trust of her community, but also makes it difficult to keep a solid boundary between work and personal life. It is difficult to stop work when everyone has your cell phone number! For her, this is a small price to pay compared to the payoff. Using her hard earned skills and knowledge to help those who really need it, and being able to live the life where and how she wants makes it all worth while. Tune in to see how she forged her own path through the nursing world.Show Notes:Being an FNP in a small town earns you a certain level of respect and trust in your community.Nancy started her nursing journey at Southern Utah University, USA and earned her LPN and ASN through their Weber State University extension nursing program. Hers was the final class of this co-operative program at SUU.After passing the NCLEX Nancy chose to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.Upon the completion of her mission Nancy found her first job as an RN in an Orthopedic Specialty Hospital.After working for a few years and starting her family, Nancy decided to return to school through the University of Utah's online BSN program.Worked in a small town hospital in Wyoming, USA and gained experience in many areas of nursing. (i.e med/surg, mom/baby, L&D)While at that hospital her shifts always varied and it proved to be very taxing on her family. Realized she needed/wanted a change and that she needed to go back to school to get the work/life balance she desired.Earned DNP through the University of Utah, USA. This was a 3 year program.Ended up in behavioral/mental health care after completing the DNP and traveled quite a distance for work. Nancy discovered a passion for mental health through this job that has enhanced her skills in patient care.Eventually transitioned to rural health near her home town working in a clinic and starting a smaller one room clinic in her community where she is now able to make a big difference in her own town.Links:https://nursing.utah.edu/programs/graduate/dnp Click here to learn more about the U of U DNP program and specialty tracks.https://nursing.utah.edu/programs/bs Click here to learn more about the U of U BSN program.https://www.weber.edu/nursing Click here to learn more about the Weber State nursing program.

Let's face it, nursing is hard. We give a lot of ourselves for our patients and it often can feel thankless, exhausting, frustrating. . . just plain hard. But, as our guest today explains, that's okay. Remember your teacher asking you to write down your dream job for when you grew up? If we all made those childhood visions come true, there'd be a lot more pro athletes and princesses in the world. Janie is one of the rare few who stuck with her plan. She knew she wanted to be a nurse since the second grade (around age 7) and has made that happen, discovering in the process a passion for helping the elderly. Show Notes:Janie earned a BS degree in Biology and worked as an EMT before earning her RNWorking in the float pool is not for every nurse, but it does give a breadth of experience and skills that specializing does not.Ever heard of Nurse Care Management before? Janie shares with us her experience working in this role in a internal medicine setting and the impact she was able to have in her patient's care.Working your way through your education can be a long process. Janie shares how and why she earned a BS in biology, then went on to earn her associate degree in Nursing and worked for a while before going back to earn her BSN. Finally culminating in earning her DNP in geriatric care. There are many online or hybrid options out there for graduate programs in nursing. Janie walks us through how she chose her program and her school.Janie is passionate about caring for the geriatric community where she lives. Listen in to discover how she is planning to use her knowledge and skills to help this patient demographic. Near the end of our chat Janie shared a few nursing stories and experiences to remind us nurses that the basic cares for our patients are our concern too. If your patient has a need, take care of it! Don't leave it for the CNA's to do later.Show Links: https://www.weber.edu/majors/nursing.html The Nursing program where Janie earned her ASN.https://www.wgu.edu/online-nursing-health-degrees/rn-to-bsn-nursing-bachelors-program/ranking.html#close  More on the Western Governors University RN-BSN programhttps://online.maryville.edu/nursing-degrees/np/adult-gerontology-primary-care-nurse-practitioner/ The online DNP program Janie completed.

My good friend Nurse Carly joins me on the podcast this week and shares her experiences working both as a nurse and mother of young children. It is common for parents to feel guilt working when they have a young family to care for at home as well. Carly shares how she was able to overcome these feelings of guilt and find joy in both of her important jobs.She also shares what it was like working in her cardiac unit when COVID-19 hit, and how her role changed from cardiac nurse to ICU nurse in the height of the pandemic.Show Notes:-Carly earned her ASN from Dixie State University in southern Utah.-Worked in an assisted living facility as her first job. Saw the effects of budget cuts on that setting and how hectic life became when staff had to be reduced.-Earned her BSN through Dixie on line in 1.5 years. -Moved to a hospital setting working on a Med Surg floor to get well rounded experience. -Eventually moved to a Cardiac unit working nights. -The flexibility of nursing makes it possible to move hours around to fit the current needs of her family. Moved to PRN to be home with her children more.-COVID-19 caused many changes in her hospital as they prepared for the surge of patients to come. Her unit became an overflow area for COVID patients and she was "trained" as an ICU nurse to help manage the uptick in patients. Link:-https://health.dixie.edu/nursing/ For more information on Dixie State University's nursing program.

My first guest for season 3 of Still a Nurse podcast is my lovely friend and neighbor Mary.  I am so glad that she was willing to be on the show and share with us her journey through nursing over the past 43 years.  This episode really shows just how varied your nursing career can be! Tune in to hear about Mary's experiences as a nurse on a pediatric ICU and watching early open heart surgeries, working on a reservation in Arizona with  Hope and Navajo tribes, and on to high risk antepartum nursing, and finally finishing out in home health care. This is an episode you don't want to miss!-Mary was educated as a nurse at the Oregon Health Sciences University.-She has nursed in several different states.-Throughout her career she has had several drastic changes in the types of nursing she has done. Her advice to those facing a new nursing job or role is to remember that "The fundamental basis of all nursing is assessing" As long as you have strong assessment skills, are humble and willing to learn and ask questions, in her opinion you can quickly adapt to just about any nursing position.Links:-https://www.ohsu.edu/school-of-nursing Click here to learn more about the program Mary graduated from and speaks so highly of.-https://www.ihs.gov/nursing/Click here if you want to learn more about nursing on reservations.-Do you have nursing stories you want to share? We want to hear them! Email me at soelberg90@gmail.com or go to http://www.stillanurse.co and leave a comment under the "Let's Connect" tab.

We have heard from several nursing students this season that have chosen to enroll in various tech programs over university nursing programs. This week our guest Kaelia gives very compelling reasons why this may be the best option for you!Show Notes:Kaelia is attending her first semester of the Draper, UT Ameritech College nursing program.This degree program is 5 semesters to finish your pre-reques  and earn your associate RN.You are able to apply right out of high school, no college pre-requisite courses are needed to apply as they are built into the program.It is one year more of online courses to complete the BSN degree. This program brings in a more varied student body with some straight out of high school, some CNA veterans, some parents, and others switching careers.With much of this program on-line, there is added flexibility, though some classes and labs are in person. Kaelia is able to work full time as a CNA full time while going through this program.While she earned her CNA as a junior in high school and has found value in having experience there prior to nursing school, she does not feel it is essential to success. In some cases it easier for those without that experience as they do not have to "un-learn" anything. The 5th semester is the capstone where you get a great experience working with a nurse instructor to get your hours completed. It is also the semester where they prepare you to take and pass the NCLEX.Upon completing your RN you are automatically enrolled in the BSN program where you have the option to spread the online learning out over a period of 1-3 years. Kaelia's favorite part about this program is that all of the lessons feel pertinent and valuable, not excessive.While Tech programs are often more costly than a university program, they can be completed faster and are flexible enough to allow most students to work full time. In her opinion, the time cost weighs in the favor of a tech program. Kaelia shares why she chose to be a nurse, and how the experiences she has had working in various fields as a CNA have given her more confidence and empathy.Her advice when trying to pick a program is to "pick what works for you." Find what your goals are that are driving you and what your preferences are as well. Are you looking for more flexibility? More online learning? Do you excel with in person class time? Are you looking for the friendships and comradery that a university setting will offer? Or do you just want to get done as quickly as possible? Let what works for you guide you to the learning option that will fit your needs best.Links:https://www.ameritech.edu/nursing-programs-overview/ For more info on the programs Ameritech has to offer, click the link above.https://atitesting.com/teas-prep For more information on the TEAS test that is required to get into the program click here.

This weeks guest, Josh, did not originally plan to become a nurse. In fact, his primary goal on entering college at BYU-Idaho was to go through business school and open a book store. Upon taking a pre-business course however, he discovered that the class, environment, and students were "not [his] tribe".  Enrolling in science classes instead he discovered where his passion lay. Not sure what to do in the science realm, he began researching  different careers in science. After much thought and study he finally settled on nursing with the knowledge that if he so desired, he could go on to earn his Nurse Practitioners license. Though nursing had not previously been on his radar, it has been a fantastic career and well worth the time, schooling, and hard work he invested in it. So give nursing a try, you may be surprised by how well it suits you!Show Notes:Josh was looking for a calling that would allow him to help people for his job. Nursing fit the bill!As he was already enrolled in BYU-I for his pre-reqs, he decided to continue on there to earn his nursing degree. BYU-I also had a high NCLEX pass rate.Taking the NCLEX is stressful and unpleasant for everyone, but Josh had to go into his exam right after a car accident that totaled his vehicle!His first job upon passing the NCLEX was on a cardiac unit where he learned just how much he did not yet know as a new nurse.  Josh was constantly learning, asking questions, and studying on his own to learn the medications. The world of rheumatology was opened to him by his uncle, a rheumatologist looking to hire an infusion and research nurse. Josh took the position. While in this role, Josh earned his BSN. Time management became key as he worked full time and attended school, all while balancing time with his young family as well.After earning his BSN Josh decided to go on and earn his NP. He chose Walden University as it was online, allowed for more flexibility, and got him through the program faster than other options. He chose to pursue a masters degree in Family Nurse Practice, (FNP) as this allowed him freedom to choose to work in various areas of nursing  rather than feeling stuck in one specialty.This program took 2 years. They were difficult but good years as he worked fulltime and was a full time student again as well. Keeping Sunday as a day for family, religion, and rest helped him stay grounded and in better balance with all of lifes demands. The greatest perks to being an FNP for Josh? Greater autonomy, greater scope of practice to help people both at work and outside of it. Better work hours and more time with family. He does not have to work a 12hr shift, or nights, weekends, or take call. Links:https://www.byui.edu/nursing/ Check out BYU-Idaho's nursing program here.https://www.waldenu.edu/programs/nursing Check out the nursing degree options from Walden University here.https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 If you are looking for a podcast media host that simplifies and teaches you how to publish a podcast, click this affiliate link! Doing so let's buzzsprout know we sent you, gets you a $20 amazon gift card if you sign up for a paid tier, and helps support our show!   https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are interested in podcasting but not sure where to start, click this affiliate link to learn more about the class I have used to get my show up and running. 

We have learned a lot this season about different paths to getting that coveted RN. This weeks guest, Lexy's story is no exception. She shows how it really does pay off putting in the time to research your schooling options well before you apply. Sometimes the best path for you is not a straight shot through a university program. Like Lexy it may wind through one university, to a technical college, and finish at a different university. Whichever path you end up taking, it is possible to tailor  your nursing education to your individual needs and preferences.  So take time like Lexy did, and do your homework first to give you the best experience possible!Show Notes:Lexy worked on her pre-requisite courses at Utah State University.With her Dad working as a Physical Therapist she discovered early on a love for knowledge about the human body.While she did not have any nursing mentors growing up, she did eventually have some friends go into nursing to help give advice. A family experience with a fantastic NICU nurse she heard growing up inspired her to become a nurse.While USU did have a nursing program, it was very new, and not accredited at the time and she had heard some negative feedback from students in the program. This led her on a search for an option that felt better for her.Found a program through the Weber State University nursing program that was offered through Bridgerland Technical College in Brigham City, Utah.This is a 3 year program. 1st year you earn an LPN, 2nd year= associate RN, 3rd year=BSN. The first year is at the tech college and then you finish up at Weber State University. Lexy explains was an LPN is and what they can do, and the benefits of having one while working on the rest of your schooling.Lexy began as a CNA, then became a med tech at an assisted living center which has given her valuable experience. Listen in to learn what her experience in this program has been, and see if it would be a good fit for you. Lexy's advice for other prospective nurses: Go to an accredited school, Talk to those in the program to see what it is like first. Talk to other nurses working in the area and ask which schools send in the most competent students. And, Just go for it!Links:https://nursing.usu.edu/ The USU program is now accredited and may be a good option for you!https://btech.edu/certificate/nursing/ Click here to learn more about  Bridgerland Technical College and their LPN program.https://www.weber.edu/nursing Click here to learn more about the Weber State University nursing program.https://www.kaptest.com/nclex Click here to learn more about Kaplan and their NCLEX test prep materials. https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 If you are looking for a podcast media host that simplifies and teaches you how to publish a podcast, click this affiliate link! Doing so let's buzzsprout know we sent you, gets you a $20 amazon gift card if you sign up for a paid tier, and helps support our show!   https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are interested in podcasting but not sure where to start, click this affiliate link to learn more about the class I have used to get my show up and running. 

This week has a different format as I decided to do a solo show to share my own nursing story in more detail. So, if you have been curious as to who exactly your host is, tune in to learn all about how I found my way into nursing!Show Notes:Learn what my dream job is. Hint: it was not nursing!Sometimes fiction can have a powerful impact on us. Was it fact or fiction that drew me towards a career in nursing?I earned my BSN from Utah Valley University but that is not where I started. Clinicals showed me my strengths and weaknesses in nursing and changed the career path I thought I was going to take.Why I have not worked for the past 6 years. (I do keep my license active though through Netce)Learn how I got into podcasting and which resources I used to learn how to make it happen.I have come to learn that life offers opportunities that push outside of our comfort zone, or field of knowledge. There are times when those opportunities are worth chasing as they help us develop new skills, gain new knowledge, and grow in unexpected but wonderful ways. More importantly, ANYONE can do this!Links:https://www.uvu.edu/nursing/ To check out the program I graduated from.https://nursing.usu.edu/Though USU did not have a nursing program when I was needing one, they do now! Check it out here!https://www.fantasticfiction.com/h/dean-hughes/children-of-the-promise.htm If you enjoy a good historical fiction, check out this series by Dean Hughes that influenced my decision to become a nurse.https://courses.smartpassiveincome.com/p/power-up-podcasting I mentioned Pat Flynn in this episode as having a great podcasting course. Check out this link to learn more!https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 If you are looking for a podcast media host that simplifies and teaches you how to publish a podcast, click this affiliate link! Doing so let's buzzsprout know we sent you, gets you a $20 amazon gift card if you sign up for a paid tier, and helps support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are interested in podcasting but not sure where to start, click this affiliate link to learn more about the class I have used to get my show up and running. https://www.netce.com/ This is the resource I use personally to keep my license active. 

Every nurse has a journey that is unique to them. This weeks guest is no exception. Surrounded by examples of medical careers, Megan knew early on she wanted to be a nurse. And with experience working with children in a daycare setting, pediatric nursing seemed like a natural fit. As is often the case however, her original plan was altered by her experiences as a new RN working at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City Utah.  While teaching the parents of her pediatric patients she realized that Teaching is a passion of hers. With this realization came the decision to return to school to earn her Masters degree in teaching with an emphasis on nursing. After her masters program and a few more surprises in her planned path, Megan ended up teaching at Ameritech college of nursing in UT, truly discovering her passion in the nursing field. Show Notes:Megan had a grandfather that was an MD and her mother was an RN, which led her to the medical field.Originally wanted to be an MD, then thought she wanted to be a Nurse Practitioner.She earned her RN and her MS from the University of UtahShe had prior work experience in a day care setting and discovered a love for working with children, especially infants.Also had experience as a CNA prior to and during nursing school. From her personal experience and seeing the experiences of others as an instructor she highly recommends getting going this route if possible. She felt those students who were CNA's or had other medical experiences first were better prepared for nursing school.She found she was surprised to learn what nurses actually do, and to see how much educating was done in her new role. She loved this though and it changed her career path. Her masters program was 2 years, 5 semesters in total.While in her program she thought she wanted to teach in a hospital setting but soon learned she loved actually teaching nursing students, changing her career path again.Her advice if you want to become an instructor:Start out as a clinical instructor and if that is enjoyable the masters program will be worth it.There is a LOT of writing involved in a masters program, that may turn some away.Make sure you are passionate about what you teach as the students can tell when you do not care about your topic and will not learn as well. Apply to accredited schools.She had her kids while working as an instructor. She found her school was willing to be flexible for her and allowed her schedule to change to fit her family needs. If that is important to you, be willing to shop around until you find a school that will allow that flexibility as not all will. Links:https://nursing.utah.edu/Click here to learn more about the U of U  nursing programs.https://intermountainhealthcare.org/primary-childrens/about/careers Click here to learn more about Primary Children's Hospital and career opportunities there.https://www.ameritech.edu/ Click here for more info on Ameritech college and schooling or career opportunities there.https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg  If you have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a good podcast host? try out Buzzsprout! th

We all have dreams or goals we want to achieve in this life. Occasionally we feel the need to put those goals aside as our time and attention is needed elsewhere. Afterward it is all too easy to assume it is too late to achieve those dreams. My guest this week, Monica, is here to share her story of how it is NOT too late to fulfill our dreams! Describing herself as "the least traditional student" in her cohort, she has entered nursing school after having a successful career in an unrelated field, had a family, and many other defining experiences along the way. Take a listen to this episode to see how the delays in her nursing aspirations and the experiences she has had have increased her self confidence and worked for her benefit as she begins her nursing journey.Show Notes:Monica has wanted to become a nurse since she was a teen but doubted her ability to learn the sciences. This doubt took her away from her nursing dream.A first semester at Idaho State University USA, she feels her experiences have given her greater confidence in her ability to learn and now she loves the science aspects of nursing.Friends helped encourage her to get into her current program and she has found nothing but support and encouragement from the staff and students in her cohort. She was very nervous about starting a program and unsure if it was a good idea, so she reached out to the program advisors who allayed some of her fears by letting her know how valuable her experience would be in the program and that she "is not the oldest" applicant for her cohort.Getting back into school and learning has been stimulating and exciting, not as difficult as she had imagined. She also has found that she learns better and has greater focus than she did in her 20's going through college before. She and her kids now do homework alongside one another. She feels it is encouraging for them to see her working so hard to accomplish a difficult thing.While most of her cohort is young, in their 20's, she and the other parents in her group have found that their worries over not being accepted were unfounded. Everyone works together and supports each other regardless of prior experience.Her biggest challenge so far?  Time management between family needs and school work. Setting schedules so family knows when she is available and when she is studying has really helped.Share your successes with your family! Let them be involved in what you are doing and learning.Her advice? Just go for your goals! "No one will wait for you, you have to take those (goals) on yourself and the support will be there.  You only have one life. You won't regret that you tried, but you might regret not trying."Links:https://www.isu.edu/nursing/ To learn more about our guests program click here.https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg  If you have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a good podcast host? try out Buzzsprout! this is the host I use and have had a great experience! Clicking the link shows that we sent you and earns you a $20 amazon gift card when you sign up for a paid tier and it will help support our show. 

My guest this week shows how sometimes, our goals and take a hefty dose of persistence to be reached. Meet Monique, currently a masters student at Vanderbilt University earning her Pediatric Nurse Practitioner license with an emphasis on primary care provider. Monique knew early on that she wanted to become a nurse as she had a passion for science and working with and helping people. So, starting as a CNA in high school, she began her journey. Little did she know that it would turn into a saga. Listen in as Monique details her nursing experiences and how occasionally it can take more than one, two, or even three tries before things really work out the  way you hope. But, as she shows, hard work, continuous effort, and believing in yourself and your abilities does pay off in the end!Show Notes:Currently at Vanderbilt University based in TN, though she lives in Maryland.Being a full time masters student and working as an RN is tough but can be done!This full time program is a little over a year long.Why go on to be an NP? For Monique the benefits are a career that suits her lifestyle better. She loves getting to know the families of her pediatric patients well, and getting to see these kids grow up to an extent.It took a few tries but Monique was accepted into the University of Utah's nursing program where she earned her BSN. She was able to get into her PNP program after just 1 year of nursing experience where she gained experience in adult oncology, an emotional but very inspiring area to work in!She currently works in Post Partum and occasionally in the nursery and NICU.In choosing a masters program it was important for her to get into a well known school as she felt that it would help make up for her "lack of experience".Her advice: if you are wanting to get into a masters program, do your research and really seek to understand why you want to go that path. Then, once you find one that fits your goals, GO FOR IT! Trust yourself, "someone out there needs you. You can do it!"Follow us on Instagram @stillanurse.To be a guest on the show email us at soelberg90@gmail.comSubscribe and share this podcast with all your nursing friends!Links:https://nursing.vanderbilt.edu/index.php Click here to learn more about nursing programs at Vanderbilthttps://nursing.utah.edu/ To learn more about the programs at the University of Utah click here.https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg  If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.* https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*

Our guest this week is here to prove that you can indeed do nursing school with young children.  Sariah is currently finishing her last two semesters of her BSN program and get this folks, she just had TWINS in December of 2020! These beauties bring her up to 4 children  ages 7 and under. And she is not only surviving her program, but thriving as well! How does she do it? Take a listen to this weeks podcast to find out!Show Notes:Sariah has known from a young age that she wanted to be a nurse. She started out getting her CNA when she was 16 to get experience in the medical field.She has had 6+ years working in a drug rehab facility with her CNA. She feels this work experience has been very beneficial and recommends becoming a CNA to others looking to get into a nursing program.Starting off on her journey she began working through a local university to complete her pre-requisite courses but soon felt that with her young daughter the timing was not right.Never loosing sight of her goal to become a nurse she continued working as a CNA until a friend talked her into checking out the nursing program through Provo College.In this college she found a program that would allow her the flexibility she needed so she could still be there for her very young family.She is able to do much of her course work online (especially since the pandemic started in 2020). And the program goes straight through to a BSN in 3 years.Sariah admits that self motivation for this program is key to success as there is not as much in person class time. There is a lot of reading, zoom instruction, and self learning. But, as a perk for her, she is able to be home with her kids more. COVID-19 caused her cohort to miss an entire semester of clinicals. To replace this time they had to clinical hours in the school labs.Clinicals are open now and she does 2-3 clinical shifts a month. This allows her to work out schedules with her husband so he can be home with their children. No babysitter required! This has given Sariah peace of mind. She encourages others looking into programs to check out the smaller colleges and other accredited programs, not just the universities as you may find they fit your needs better. A key thing she has gained from this experience? CONFIDENCE  in her ability to learn the subject material largely on her own. How does she thrive in such a challenging situation? Don't procrastinate! Work ahead when possible so that when things come up you do not have missed assignments.Links:https://www.provocollege.edu/programs/bachelors-degree-nursing/ To see if the program through Provo College is a good fit for you, click the link!https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Our affiliate link to Buzzsprout. If you are looking for a media host for your podcast, try them out! You will receive a $20 Amazon gift card after signing up for a paid plan and using this link will support our show. https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*

Welcome to season two of Still a Nurse podcast! I am so excited to bring this first episode to you all! My guest is Deanna Cooper Gillingham, who is a successful nurse entrepreneur, fellow podcaster, and overall amazing woman. I am so honored that she took the time to chat with me about her path into nursing and where it has led her. Learn alongside me as she shares what nursing case management is, and how certifying as a case manager led to a wonderful entrepreneur experience. Although this episode is not about your traditional nurse education, take a listen and have your eyes opened to a new aspect of nursing that is NOT taught in school! Look further down in the links to learn more about Deanna, her podcast, and her websites.Show Notes:Deanna currently works full time as a nurse entrepreneur and has done so for the past 5 years.At first she avoided nursing even though it interested her because family friends scared her away.  After a few years though she realized it truly is what she wanted to do as a career and she dove in.Deanna was expecting her second child when she got into a community college to earn her associate RN in 2 years. Though she planned to take a short sabbatical once her baby was born she quickly realized that if she took a break she would never finish. So, with her baby only 5 weeks old, and a toddler at home, she learned to balance school and family time to reach her goal. In her words, "it is definitely  not easy, but it can be done" with good time management. Deanna earned her LPN and then her RN and loved her work as a nurse and loved being a mother. Her perception of nursing and lifestyle design changed when she decided to homeschool their children and needed a job schedule that would allow her to do so. Finding a job that fit the needs of her family lifestyle opened her eyes to new possibilities with nursing.An opportunity arose to become a case manager, a job position she previously did not know existed. She had to learn what this job was and what it entailed, and in the process found even more freedom and independence than she had previously experienced as a nurse.Listen to the episode to discover what qualifications you need to become a case manager.While studying for the Case Management exam she found there was a need for a quality book to study from. After some time she became the one to solve the problem and wrote the book herself.That book, which started as a side hustle, eventually led to a second edition, a course, and a website. One of the things that helped Deanna keep going was to have a "wish list" of things she hoped she could accomplish with her side hustle. Eventually her side hustle became her full time gig!Deanna shares how she learned the necessary skills to accomplish all of this and gain independence as a nurse entrepreneur.Links:https://thestayathomenurse.com/ Deanna's website and podcast about nurse entrepreneurship.https://casemanagementinstitute.com/ To learn more a bout case management click here.https://www.facebook.com/deanna.c.gillingham Follow Deanna on Facebook here.https://www.instagram.com/the_stay_at_home_nurse/ To follow Deanna's podcast on instagram click here.https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Our affiliate link to Buzzsprout. If you are looking for a media host for your podcast, try them out! You will receive a $20 Amazon gift card after signing up for a paid plan and using this link will support our show.

Show NotesThis week on the show we have Karla, an operating room nurse who was set on the RN trail by her Dad. Often others are able to see certain attributes in us that lend themselves to one career path or another that we are not able to see in ourselves. This was the case for Karla. Nursing was nowhere to be found on her life goal list but with some kind encouragement, she found that nursing really was a good fit for her. Karla attended the BYU-Idaho nursing program and loved the comradery she found there with her fellow classmates. She loved the nursing program there and really liked the emphasis they placed on connecting with the patients as well as gaining the technical skills.  Upon completion of her schooling she was able to get her first job on a post-surgical unit in a hospital. Working with orthopedic, urology, trauma, performing surgical dressing changes, assisting with ADL's, Passing medications etc.  While this was not a job she particularly enjoyed, she found that the year of experience there was invaluable in learning nursing skills that have helped her in her nursing practice as a whole. My guest also learned the frustrating way that transferring your license to another state can be a huge headache. Her advice is to do your research before you plan to move so you can be prepared as the process may very well take a few months. Karla has had the unique experience of working in small towns (Idaho, Iowa) and in a big city (Chicago, Illinois).  She was able to share some neat experiences in all these places. Though she had to endure a few positions she did not love first, she eventually did make it to her dream job of working in the operating room. Training took 6 months, but she loves being the circulating and scrub nurse in the OR. Moving between multiple states and finding a job in a new area can be stressful and intimidating, but for this nurse it has been a wonderful experience that has really added to her knowledge and skill set. Working in three different states has not been the only challenging transition Karla has had to make. She also had to learn how to be a nurse and a mom recently. This transition brought on a bit of an identity crisis but she has learned how to thrive as both a mother and a Nurse. A big advocate of finding balance in life, she has a few tips on how to make this transition and how to make work and family life mesh together well. Linkshttps://www.byui.edu/nursing/ CLick here to learn more about the nursing program at BYU-Ihttps://www.ayahealthcare.com/  This is an example of a travel nurse agency that you can look into.https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a media host for your podcast? Click this link and earn a $20 gift card for signing up for a paid plan and support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg  If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*

This weeks guest is a delightful nursing student named Sarah.  Sarah is currently in her third semester of nursing school at Utah Valley University in Utah, USA.  She gives us the scoop on what motivated her to work toward nursing, what the process is like getting into this particular program, her favorite things about the UVU program, and her experiences with nursing thus far. She also has some interesting insights into what nursing school and the clinicals have been like with COVID-19.Show Notes:1:30 Sarah shares her motivation behind her decision to become a nurse.2:40 What it is like trying to get into the UVU program6:30  Describing the professors and the nursing school environment.9:15 All about clinicals and how they were affected last year (2020) by the COVID-19 pandemic.13:00 How much COVID-19 has affected the clinical portion of the nursing program.17:00 Overcoming nerves can be hard especially when performing your first IV. Sarah tells how she handled this learning experience.19:45 Sarah and I discuss how confidence is key in the clinical setting.22:00 The UVU program has you get your associate RN after your 4th semester upon passing the NCLEX. Two more semesters will earn you a BSN.22:35 Like most people, Sarah has been surprised by the areas she has found interesting in clinicals.23:50 Why Sarah thinks she may be a good fit for oncology.28:00 Tips from Sarah on getting into nursing school. Having some healthcare experience can be really useful in her opinion.29:15 Her tip for when you are in a nursing program. 30:35 Interesting experiences she has had during clinicals.32:35 How the students in Sarah's cohort feel about their prospects of getting a job once they earn their RN's.Links:https://www.uvu.edu/nursing/ To check out the UVU nursing program, click here.https://www.atitesting.com/educator/solutions/teas For more info on the TEAS test and a possible test prep option.https://www.ncsbn.org/nclex-faqs.htm Click here for information on the NCLEX exam.https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a media host for your podcast? Click this link and earn a $20 gift card for signing up for a paid plan and support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg  If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*

Sometimes events in life seem to guide us in an unexpected direction. This was certainly true for my guest today, Janessa RN. She explains how she, like others we have heard from, never set out to become a nurse. Her first choice was elementary education. But events kept nudging her to check out nursing in the months leading up to her college adventure, and rather than ignore those she decided to learn for herself if Nursing was for her. She admits that at first she had major doubts. Even describing herself as one who was afraid of needles and blood. She learned however, that those things could be overcome with exposure and practice in the nursing program. Janessa is a dear friend of mine and I am grateful to her for being a guest on the show.  Janessa is the epitome of Still a Nurse as she has chosen to keep her license active while she raises her 6 young children. She demonstrates how even though she may not be actively working as an RN she is still a nurse and has opportunities to use and even expand her nursing skills.  1:00 Why Janessa Chose nursing3:10 It is possible to overcome a fear of needles and blood to become a nurse.5:50 Janessa shares a valuable lesson she learned while in nursing school.11:00 How she got her first RN job in Hospice.12:00 All about Hospice.18:00 Working in an assisted living facility and finding flexible hours.20:25 Pros and Cons of working in an ALF or long term care facility.28:00 How her hospice knowledge helped with a family members care.31:50 Janessa shares an experience of using her wound care skills to help an elderly neighbor.33:50 How she keeps her license active.35:10 On being the camp nurse for girls camp for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.36:35 Transferring  her license between states and what she learned.45:50 Amusing nursing storyLinks:https://www.byui.edu/nursing/ check out this nursing  programhttps://www.nurse.com/ How Janessa keeps her license activehttps://www.netce.com/ Another resource for keeping your license active.https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a media host for your podcast? Click this link and earn a $20 gift card for signing up for a paid plan and support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg  If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*

Show Notes:Join me in learning from nurse Jill all about her life in the OR as the circulating nurse and charge nurse for her operating room and how she has become the "eye specialist" nurse in Utah.0:00 intro to guest Jill and how she got into nursing.1:30 School Jill attended for nursing program.2:30 How she ended up in the OR where she has been for 30+ years.3:00 Description of work in the OR6:40 Jill tells what the roles and responsibilities of the circulating nurse are in the OR.9:00 Jill tells us how she is the eye specialist OR nurse in Utah.10:00 Description of the eye surgeries She gets to help with and how she got to be so specialized.14:00 The "accordion nurse" how nursing has allowed her to have varied hours to be involved and present for her children and family.15:00 On getting back into school to earn her BSN after having her ASN for 30 years. And why she went back. 19:00 How her nursing knowledge has been useful in various aspects of life, and how she was the "camp nurse" for her church girls camp program with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.20:00 Jill shares an experience she had being the only medical person on a study abroad to  Israel with Brigham Young University.23:00 tips for working toward the OR if your are looking to get there.24:40 The longest she has been in on a surgery, and what she does on those long cases.28:30 Tips on how to decrease hours when your life requires it.30:00 On how COVID-19 impacted her job in 2020.33:35 A few changes she has seen in the forward movement of the medical field.36:10 Jill shares some funny/embarrassing nursing stories.40:40 What she feels the best part of being an OR nurse is. 42:00 How nursing has given her more confidence and added to her personality.43:00 On remembering that the Patients you meet really need kindness and caring as they are likely in a crises moment. "They don't need a grumpy old OR nurse".Know a nurse? Share this podcast!Follow us on Instagram @still.a.nurseHave a question you would like to hear answered on our show? leave a comment on our Instagram page, or send me an email at soelberg90@gmail.comIf you would like to share your nursing stories on our show please let us know! Just send an email to the address listed above.Links:https://intermountainhealthcare.org/locations/utah-valley-hospital/ If you want to know more about Utah Valley Hospitalhttps://www.byui.edu/nursing/ Nursing program our guest did. This school used to be called Ricks Collegehttps://intermountainhealthcare.org/locations/lds-hospital/Click here if you want to learn more about LDS hospital in UThttps://www.wgu.edu/online-nursing-health-degrees/rn-to-bsn-nursing-bachelors-program.html Click here to learn more about the RN to BSN program Jill did.https://absn.gcu.edu/ Click here to learn more about the accelerated BSN program through Grand Canyon Universityhttps://www.uvu.edu/nursing/ Click here to find out more about the UVU nursing programhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/?lang=eng Jill mentioned wanting to serve a mission for the church she is a part of. Click here to learn more about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

So you want a career that is meaningful and fulfilling but still want to have that family you have dreamt of. Nursing is the career for you! Tune in to this weeks episode and meet Laurie, a super nurse AND a superb mother of 6.  Laurie was not sure about nursing at first but new she wanted a job that would allow for flexibility and the opportunity to become a mother someday.  After looking into teaching, physical therapy, and other options, nursing seemed to tick all of the boxes. Since choosing nursing she has had a wonderful and varied career, met wonderful people, learned self confidence as she learned new skills, had an impact on the lives of others, and had her own life impacted by others as well. She also shows how it is possible to take a significant amount of time away from nursing and still get back in when the time is right. It may be frightening, but as she puts it "You just gotta jump in, have confidence in yourself, and think positive". Laurie also tells of her experience in her current role as a triage tele-nurse working from a home office showing just how flexible and varied this wonderful world of nursing truly is.Show Notes Time Stamps:1:00 Why nursing?2:30 About experience at BYU nursing school in Provo UT4:15 Description of finding her first job in a tough market and how being willing to move  for a job may be key.  6:30 Description of her first job on a Medical Oncology unit8:45 Moved to a new job for better hours at a Pediatric Neurology Unit10:00  Nursing is great due to variety but can also be hard as switching jobs requires you to switch gears and become the "new guy" again. 12:00 When beginning your first, or new job there are many fears and nerves to overcome. "You just gotta jump in...have confidence in yourself...think positive"13:35 Describing her third job in a Physical Medicine and Rehab clinic as a nurse manager.16:15 Tips for managing employees well "Be there to listen"18:00 Patient and family interactions and experiences have been the most impactful  part of nursing for her. It is important to look beyond physical needs, look at the patient as a "whole person".20:15 Took a 16 year hiatus from work to have a family.  23:15 Getting back into nursing was "terrifying" after 16 years off. Just go for it though! Be willing to "be vulnerable...ask questions...don't be discouraged...It may not be easy but it is definitely doable".25:00 How she kept her RN license active.27:30 Description of her current triage nurse job where she works from home.33:00  Process she went through to get hired for above job.35:15 Her personal Nursing storiesLinks:https://nursing.byu.edu/ BYU nursing programhttps://www.netce.com/ Source for continuing education creditshttps://jobs.sutterhealth.org/ An example of a company that frequently hires remote triage nurses. (May only be for Utah RNs)https://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=Remote+Triage+Nurse&l= An example of a job search site you can use to find remote work as an RNhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a media host for your podcast? Click this link and earn a https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg  If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and click

Nursing truly does open up a world of possibilities. Whether you are based in a large city or a small town of 500 people or less, there are nursing opportunities available to you if you know where to look. My guest this week, Heidi, shares with us her experiences of working at a large hospital vs. working in a small town hospital with only 18 beds total.   So, whether you are a city kid dreaming of a small town scene or just the opposite, take a listen to this episode to learn some pros and cons for each situation. Not sure which area of nursing is "your jam" so to speak? Learn from Heidi why being a float nurse can be a fun way to experience multiple areas rather than specializing in one area.  Our need for work fluctuates throughout our lives, especially when it comes to having a family. Perhaps you need fewer hours but do not want to give up nursing all together. Heidi gives her opinion and tips about how to go about asking for a change in schedules that will allow you to continue to be a stellar nurse while also being there for family when they need you most. Show Notes:Everyone has a different path into nursing. In this episode we learn of the benefits of becoming a CNA prior to attending nursing school.It is possible to start your nursing program at one school and transfer to another after a year.Becoming a float nurse gives you great experiences in many areas of nursing while also allowing you to learn which area are most interesting to you.Bigger hospitals may afford you more opportunities for growth and upward movement, while also being a great way to specialize in one area of nursing.Small hospitals force you to be more involved out of necessity. You may get to help deliver a baby, take a patient in the ED,  and have a hospice patient all in the same shift!In Heidi's words, "Some of the very best nurses I know worked there [small hospital]"Nursing really allows for a wide variety of hours and scheduling. While it can be frightening, it is possible to go PRN if that is what your life demands at the time. Just make sure you have shown your worth as an RN where you work, and that you have a good relationship of trust with  employers."Be present" whether you are on shift or not, really try to be in the moment.Know a nurse? Share this podcast!Follow us on Instagram @still.a.nurseHave a question you would like to hear answered on our show? leave a comment on our Instagram page, or send me an email at soelberg90@gmail.comIf you would like to share your nursing stories on our show please let us know! Just send an email to the address listed above.Links:https://www.usu.edu/degrees/index.cfm?id=1187 Nursing program in northern Utahhttps://www.suu.edu/nursing/ Nursing program in southern Utahhttps://www.jointcommission.org/ For more information about the Joint Commission click herehttps://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a media host for your podcast? Click this link and earn a $20 gift card for signing up for a paid plan and support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg  If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*

My guest today is Don, and he realized early on that he was destined for the medical world. With a curiosity for the Human body and a knack for quickly learning the sciences, medicine seemed a natural fit. But which area to study?  Med school to become an MD? Nursing, or something else? Fortunately for him, he happened to have two fantastic nurses right there in his neighborhood all growing up. Not everyone is lucky enough to have a mentor just down the road, especially a well respected professor of nursing. Though he may not have seen a clear path before him, his mentor noticed he would be a great fit as a nurse, and thankfully mentioned it to him. Like most of us though, it takes more than a suggestion to make such a big decision. Don explains he decision process for choosing to apply for the University of Utah Nursing program, as well as how he made the move for further education.  If you have been on the fence about whether or not you want to get that higher degree in nursing, be it a Masters, a PhD in nursing or a CRNA, you'll want to give this episode a listen as Don has great advice on how to break this decision down. And, as a bonus, my guest is full of humor as well. You do NOT want to miss his three fantastic stories! Show Notes and Quotes:"How much does your job own you", or how much do you want it to own you? Try taking Don's mindset when making your pro and con list for potential careers.Nursing school can really "open" your world to the possibilities that await you.When applying for jobs, be willing to try new things, to allow yourself to or even look for opportunities to stretch and grow.Being an ICU nurse, it is no wonder that "burnout" can and does happen. Don shared with me how he was able to combat this and continue thriving in his position. As he says, "the ICU has [his] heart to this day".It is easy to get comfortable in a position and feel you can settle there for the rest of your career. That is how Don felt in a management role over 35 staff members in a surgical unit. Until he had the feeling that he was capable of more and needed to stretch and grow once more. He details how he chose to listen to this voice prompting him onward despite an intense fear of failure.Don talks in depth about his "decision tree" regarding choosing the right NP program for him and his family.Don also shares some key experiences that shaped him as a nurse in the ICU."Nurses make the world go round"Know a nurse? Share this podcast!Follow us on Instagram @still.a.nurseHave a question you would like to hear answered on our show? leave a comment on our Instagram page, or send me an email at soelberg90@gmail.comIf you would like to share your nursing stories on our show please let us know! Just send an email to the address listed above.Links:https://nursing.utah.edu/https://nursing.byu.edu/Section/programs.aspxhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a media host for your podcast? Click this link and earn a $20 gift card for signing up for a paid plan and support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg  If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*

Picking a major, which hopefully will lead to a career, is often a stressful and daunting task in our young adult years. Fortunately for my guest today, she had friends and mentors along the way to guide her to nursing even though it meant switching majors. Observing the joy and fulfillment her friend got from her job as a nurse, and seeing the wealth of opportunities for continuous learning turned out to be just what she was looking for in a career for herself. If you are like my guest Jessie and thrive off of new experiences, ceaseless opportunities to learn and improve your skills, nursing may just be the best option for you as well.Jessie is a specialized Neuro/Trauma Pediatric Nurse in Utah. She is also became a mother in the last year. Tune in as she gives advice to other mothers who wonder how to continue to nurse their infant while working as an RN. My guest is also part of the quality and care improvement team on her unit and she gives great advice for nurses looking to up their career. Along with advice for current nurses, she also has tips for new grads looking for their first job. This episode is PACKED with great info, fun stories, words of encouragement and empowerment. Take a listen to see what there is for you to learn!Show Notes:Having little "healthcare experience" prior to becoming a nurse may not be as big a detriment as you think. In Jessie's opinion; "Some of the best nurses...are people that are shaped outside of the healthcare field prior to their entrance as a nurse".It is possible to land a job that allows management roles as well as bedside patient care.One of the great things about nursing is that it is broader and deeper than you may think at first.Finding a balance between work is tricky. It is important to remember that "Everyone's  journey is different, everyone's work and home life balance is going to be so different".Portable battery powered breast pumps really helped this RN in the transition from maternity leave back to full time work.Try getting on a pumping schedule 2 weeks before you go back in to work.Try keeping a consistent schedule when you do return to work as this may make for an easier transition for you and your family.Schedule quality time with your spouse, children, or even yourself to help maintain a balance.If you are looking to add on new roles at work, start by taking on small projects. Those will often lead to bigger ones, and opportunities for new responsibilities. If you see that something could be done better, speak up!There is "always going to be someone with more experience than you. But they are NOT you so just go for it!"When it comes to interviews, whether in person or done virtually; ALWAYS dress professionally!For those in capstone in their nursing programs; by the end of your capstone, make it a goal to be as independent as possible and ask for feedback and friendly criticism. Links:https://www.monster.com/jobs/search/?q=Nursing&intcid=skr_navigation_nhpso_searchMain  Looking to get back into nursing? try this site and the one below. They may have resume templates as well.https://www.indeed.com/q-RN-l-Utah-jobs.htmlhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a host site for your podcast show? Click this link and earn a $20 gift card for a paid plan. And, using this link will also help support our show.https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are have an idea for a podcast 

It is all too easy to tell ourselves we cannot do something. Saying things like, I am not smart enough, that is too intimidating, I will never make it, etc. In this episode I get to chat with Tanya, a woman who never wanted to become a nurse for some of the very reasons listed above. She illustrates how sometimes it is the very act of saying "I will never..." that starts us on the path to doing or becoming just that. Though she found herself a very unlikely candidate for nursing and wondered many times if she had made the right choice, her experiences has taught her that she CAN. Often it is the classes, jobs, or other life situations, that push us out of our comfort zones the most that result in the greatest growth. Listen in to this episode as Tanya lays out how she went from "I could never  be a nurse" to absolutely loving her job even though it initially ticked off all her "I do not want" items in a job. I had a wonderful time getting to know her nursing story as she illustrated her personal growth as an individual and as a health care professional. I hope you take a listen and enjoy her life stories and learn from the lessons she has to share!Show Notes:Getting outside of our comfort zone may not be a bad thing.Paying for school can be tough and even seem impossible. Tanya's path allowed her to do so using the GI bill. Sometimes it is all about who you know when it comes to getting that first job out of school. Our guest accepted a friends offer to help, even though the job did not seem ideal. Sometimes the job may not seem to be what we want, but can teach us to love an area of nursing we may not have discovered otherwise. It can be difficult to jump in and out of the nursing pool, but it can be done with perseverance and a willingness to work and learn new things.Tired of completing all those continuing education credits to keep your license active? Look into being an immunization nurse! This can be a fun way to get a few of those hours you need.It is ok to "work to live and not live to work".My personal favorite quote, "You can pretty much learn to do anything if you do it enough."Links: https://www.slcc.edu/nursing/ Looking for a nursing program in UT? Check out Salt Lake Community College where our guest went.https://www.cns-cares.org/ Our guest mentions using this as a resource for finding jobs that allowed more flexibility in scheduling.https://www.interimhealthcare.com/saltlakecityut/careers/ Our guest also mentioned working for a staffing agency as a good option for hours/pay ratio and flexibility. Here is one that I found in a quick search for UT. Check out agencies near you!https://www.netce.com/specials.php This is the source our guest uses when she needs to complete continuing education hours. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tabiona,_Utah In the show, Tanya mentions a small town in UT called Tabiona. If you are curious, here is a link to some facts.https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a host site for your own podcast? Click the link above and earn a $20 Amazon gift card when you sign up for a paid plan. And, using the link will help support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *

Working  in the ED, ICU, or being part of the Rapid Response Team at your hospital is not a job for everyone. It is fast paced, high stress, demanding, and involves making quick decisions that can have a major impact on your patients wellbeing. Our guest today has become a veteran nurse in these fields. Meet Gabe,  a nurse in the critical care setting in San Antonio, TX who has been working with COVID-19 patients since March 2020. In this episode he tells us how Nursing felt like a calling for him after being raised in the inner city of San Antonio and seeing first hand the need in his community for medical help. Witnessing critical EMS calls in his neighborhood, and doing his best to help care for people before medical help arrived, prepared him for his future career. Take a listen to this episode to learn more about how COVID-19 care is done in his ICU, how his ICU unit has changed since the pandemic hit in March 2020,  and how skeptical patients have learned the hard way not to take this illness lightly. Gabe also gives his personal advice on whether nursing is still a good option for a career in light of this ongoing pandemic. Show Notes:Don't be afraid to take on the high acuity assignments. there is so much you can learn as a nurse and as a person.Working in these high stress environments does get easier and more comfortable with time.Don't be afraid to ask questions. And be proactive about talking to more experienced nurses to get their advice on how to thrive in the ED or ICU.Remember to take care of the patients mental and emotional wellbeing, not just their physical health. Sometimes the time you take with patients to talk about how they are feeling is more impactful than the actual nursing care.Don't be afraid to make connections with patients or to get attached. Those nurse patient relationships are what make nursing so fulfilling.Nervous to start nursing? Ask yourself, "what is my purpose? Do I really want to help people?"Know a nurse? Share this podcast!Follow us on Instagram @still.a.nurseHave a question you would like to hear answered on our show? leave a comment on our Instagram page, or send me an email at soelberg90@gmail.comIf you would like to share your nursing stories on our show please let us know! Just send an email to the address listed above.Links:https://www.uthscsa.edu/academics/nursing Click here for more info on UT Health San Antonio nursing school. https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a media host for your podcast? Click this link and earn a $20 gift card for signing up for a paid plan and support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*

So you have been using that associate RN degree of yours for years. Now what? Learn how  and why this fabulous L&D nurse chose to go back to school to earn her BSN.  Do nurses really need to switch around to different floors or different jobs? Not necessarily. Nurse Darci found her passion in women's health early on,  particularly on the Labor and Delivery unit, and has stayed put. Learn from her experience about how it is possible to keep that love for nursing alive while working in the same area of expertise for years. Show Notes:L&D can be tricky to get into. Listen in and learn some tips from a pro.Going back to school can be daunting. Learn how this RN coped with entering the student role and what she gained from doing so.Role models are important when choosing your life's course. Could you be a role model for someone else?Nursing while having a family can be tricky.  But as this nurse shows, it can be done!Are you in the mood for a good laugh? be sure to listen through to the end for a great nursing story that will leave you in a fit of giggles!Subscribe to our channel so you do not miss an episode.Share this poscast with others.Follow us on Instagram @still.a.nurseHave a question you want answered on our show? Do you have experiences you would like to share? Leave a comment on our instagram account, or send me an email at soelberg90@gmail.comLinks:Check out this nursing program. https://www.weber.edu/nursing Check out this great resource for furthering your education. This program is not for everyone, but may be a great option for you. https://www.byupathway.org/https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a media host for your podcast? Click this link and earn a $20 gift card for signing up for a paid plan and support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*

Have you been enjoying the stay at home gig for a while and wondering how to get back into work as a nurse? Are you currently looking for resources to keep that hard earned RN license active? Or, are you simply looking for the next perfect nursing job and struggling to find the right fit? Meet Lindsey, a delightful and cheerful RN who has made the trek from full time RN to full time Mother and back again...a few times! Listen in to learn what helpful tips and life lessons she has learned and see that you can do it too!Show Notes:Lindsey has a unique approach to finding her jobs. Do you fit your life to your job, or your job to your life? Learn how you can jump in and out of the nursing pool with relative ease.Looking for a job? Try Lindsey's tactic and check out your local classifieds to see what needs exist in your area. You may even find some interesting  and unusual jobs there!Balancing work and family is a tough gig! Learn how Lindsey manages to keep up her nursing and be there for family as well.My personal favorite quote from the interview. "I choose nursing. We can clean the house later."Try checking your local health departments for healthcare conferences to keep learning.Join a nursing association and go to their conferences they may have to help keep your license current.Subscribe to a nursing magazine to keep current in the field of nursing you enjoy.Subscribe to our podcast so you never miss an episode.Know a nurse? Share this podcast!Follow us on Instagram @still.a.nurseHave a question you would like to hear answered on our show? leave a comment on our Instagram page, or send me an email at soelberg90@gmail.comIf you would like to share your nursing stories on our show please let us know! Just send an email to the address listed above.Links:https://jobs.ksl.com/search/nursing example of a local job classified page. This is specific to Utah, USA.Check out where this nurse earned her RN. https://nursing.byu.edu/ https://www.netce.com/ A resource for continuing education.https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1358281 Looking for a media host for your podcast? Click this link and earn a $20 gift card for signing up for a paid plan and support our show!https://www.thepodcasthost.com/academy/?ref=tristansoelberg If you are have an idea for a podcast but don't know how to get started, check out this podcast course! This is the course that I personally used to get this show up and running.  *This is an affiliate link, and clicking it will show we sent you and will help support our show.*