The College Handoff

This episode of The College Handoff features BYU nursing alumna Susie Kochevar, a registered nurse in Las Vegas, Nevada, experienced in trauma and emergency nursing, who also trains paramedics and firefighters for the city. Also featured is EMT and second-semester College of Nursing student, Calvin Reed. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the eightieth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in November 2022.

In hopes of dealing with finals, the holidays, or just stress, we provide this guided Gratitude Meditation with Associate Teaching Professor Dr. Michael Thomas.  The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is a special episode of The College Handoff series and was recorded in November 2022.

This episode of The College Handoff explores Utah State Hospital. Director of Nursing at USH, Jacklyn Valdez, describes her role and why USH is a great institution. Also featured is Derek Killian, the assistant director of nursing at USH. He shares how USH has changed over the years. Additionally, BYU nursing alumna Alisha Tanner offers insight into the work environment at USH.   The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the seventy-eighth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in November 2022.

This episode of The College Handoff features Curtis Anderson and Jane Jeppson. Curtis is the founder and CEO of NURSA, a recruiting platform for nurses. Jane is a BYU nursing alumna and current head of clinical at NURSA. Together they explain how CNAs, LPNs, and RNs can find per diem work using NURSA to earn clinical experience in a variety of fields. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the seventy-seventh show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in November 2022.

This episode features three healthcare organizations as possible employers for nursing students: Ashley Jones from Generations Healthcare based in California; Joseph Kelley of Saint Alphonsus Hospital in Idaho; and Wendy Turcotte representing St. Luke's Health System in Idaho. All three share the benefits of working in their hospital system and provide tips for applications and interviews. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the seventy-seventh show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in November 2022.

This episode features Dr. Christine Platt, who completed a Ph.D. and DNP simultaneously and shares her doctoral research on disabled children in the foster care system. She also offers her experiences as a mother to multiple foster children. Also featured are BYU nursing capstone students Gabrielle Warnick and Breanna Oliphant; perhaps the only undergraduate student presenters at this year's American Psychiatric Nurses Association annual conference. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the seventy-sixth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in November 2022.

This episode features two BYU nursing alumni: Gretchen Fors and Robin Woodbury. With three children who have suffered hearing loss, Gretchen is passionate about raising awareness of the importance of universal newborn hearing screenings and early intervention for children with hearing loss. Robin shares this sentiment for early intervention health screenings by sharing her insights as an early intervention nurse. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the seventy-fifth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in October and November of 2022.

This episode of The College Handoff features oncology nurse Heather Barney. As a nurse, she supports an oncologist and educates patients and their families regarding cancer treatments. Also featured is Yvonne Ellison, a nurse investigator that works for the Utah Office of Inspector General. She explains how she looks for fraud, waste, or abuse with Medicare billing. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. The seventy-fourth show in The College Handoff series was recorded in October 2022.

This episode of The College Handoff discusses BYU's family nurse practitioner graduate program with faculty members Dr. Neil Peterson and Craig Nuttall. Dr. Peterson is the graduate program coordinator at BYU, and Craig is a former student and current professor in the program. Also featured is Robert Kemsley, a current student in the graduate program. He shares about his experiences at BYU.

This episode features two BYU nursing alumni: Megan Duricka currently works as an OR nurse in California and shares the benefits of working in a small surgery center. Anne Dansie is a rapid response nurse in a large hospital that utilizes specially trained nurses to stabilize critical patients in unusual situations within the facility. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. The seventy-second show in The College Handoff series was recorded in October 2022.

This episode features Associate Teaching Professor Dr. Stacie Hunsaker. As the undergraduate program coordinator for the College of Nursing at BYU, she explains what it means for the Mary Jane Rawlinson Geertsen Nursing Learning Center to be accredited and her vision for the undergraduate program moving forward. Also featured is retiring Associate Teaching Professor Dr. Karen de la Cruz, who has taught at BYU for 14 years. She shares her wisdom and experiences and why a Ghanaian tribal chief once gave her the title of "mother." The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the seventy-first show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in September and October 2022.

This episode features Christine Mohl, a recruiter for Baylor Scott & White Health in Texas. She describes the organization's new graduate nursing program and ways BYU nursing students can participate. Also featured is Lauren Schagel, a BYU alumna and current RN at Baylor Scott & White Health Convenient Care. She discusses her work environment and gives insight into her time as a research assistant for Dr. Julie Valentine. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the seventieth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in September 2022.

This episode features Lorene Hovey, a BYU College of Nursing alumna and current community health nurse. She describes what community health nursing is and the work she is doing to assist with the 2022 Monkeypox outbreak. Also featured is Mary Harris. She explains Advanced Practice Provider (APP) licensure and the benefits of the collaborative association. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the sixty-ninth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in September 2022.

This episode features Dr. Britt R. Berrett, a former hospital CEO and current managing director and teaching professor at BYU. He shares a broader perspective on the healthcare system and describes the new healthcare leadership minor. Also featured is Claire Schulz, an RN and MBA candidate. She explains what the BYU Healthcare Industry Association is, and the importance of leadership within nursing. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the sixty-eighth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in September 2022.

This podcast episode features BYU nursing alumni Debra Thomson and Jaclyn Thatcher. Jaclyn Thatcher is the founder and CEO of Hatcher Packs, a company that makes 2-in-1 diaper bags and baby carriers. Also featured is Debra Thomson, a rehab nurse who helps patients recover following acute injuries. She shares her love of rehab nursing and explains the nuances of rehabilitation. Both offer insight into the diverse careers nurses can pursue.   The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the sixty-seventh show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in August 2022.

This podcast features three nursing students: Maryn Behling, Pyper Schmutz, Katherine Ferrier. All three worked during the summer in healthcare positions. Maryn had the opportunity to be a health coordinator for For the Strength of Youth (FSY)--a church-run youth group. Katherine was a health-hut assistant at a youth camp in Yosemite, California. Pyper worked as an EMT river guide, and they'll share their medical support experiences from working this summer and how other students can find similar opportunities. 

This podcast features nursing professor Dr. Peggy Anderson, who has spent her BYU career supporting at-risk groups. Peggy has taught students that compassion and love answer most concerns, from the incarcerated to refugees and even the homeless or those with disabilities. She shares her insight from 20 years of teaching at the university and her retirement plans. We also hear from two BYU alumni about inventions that make surgery safer and a low-cost device to help infants breathe easier. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the sixty-fifth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in March 2022.

This podcast features two guests. Dr. Corinna Tanner talks about her research to create and improve the curriculum for the visually impaired and blind community. Additionally, she shares some of her experiences as a legally blind individual. Antonia, an undergraduate research assistant to Dr. Tanner, shares how she got into research, what she's learned at the lab, and how others can get involved in important research opportunities. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the sixty-third show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in March 2022.

This podcast features two guests. First, Heidi Vawdrey shares the importance of mental health. As President and CEO at Beehive Comprehensive Clinic, Heidi recognizes the connection between mind and body, and how the health of one can impact the other. Second, we hear from Cindy Filoso, a nurse who worked for 24 years before transitioning to a managerial position at AmeriBen, a company that specializes in processing medical claims. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the sixty-second show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in March 2022.

This podcast features two guests. First, BYU teaching professor Karen Lundberg shares memories of her time at the College of Nursing. She discusses how she became a professor, her work drug testing for the 2002 Winter Olympics, and how she cultivates optimism as a nurse. Second, we hear from Kylee Alejandre, a doula who works to ensure mothers have the birthing experience they want while staying safe. She talks about her journey to become a doula and her experience helping new mothers. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the sixty-first show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in March 2022.

This episode highlights the career of nursing alumna Erin Davis. As a cardiothoracic transplant and mechanical circulatory support manager with the University of Utah Health Hospital, Erin has 20 years of experience with transplants and technology to support life-saving therapies. She shares job insight, ways she supports team members, and the purpose behind a rewarding vocation. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the sixtieth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in March 2022.

This podcast features two alumni guests. First, BYU teaching professor Dr. Sheri Palmer shares memories of her time at the College of Nursing. She discusses the college's public and global health clinical experiences and research she completed in Paraguay as a Fulbright Scholar. Second, we hear from Andrea Jacobs, a CNA Instructor at Mountainland Technical College. She explains how to become a certified nursing assistant and some tips for success in this position.   The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fifty-ninth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in February 2022 and December 2021.

This episode highlights nursing opportunities with the US Public Health Services, one of the eight uniformed services of the United States. We learn from nursing alumna Jennifer Harlos who explains ways nurses, nurse practitioners, and even students can help provide healthcare and related services to medically underserved populations, prevent and control disease, and work with other nations and international agencies on global health problems and their solutions. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fifty-eighth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in February 2022.

This show features alumna Marie Lewis who discusses working in the health units of the US Embassies of Morocco and Jordan. She explains the nursing skills used to support others while learning from them culturally. Marie currently works at the Virginia Hospital Center Outpatient Clinic serving the uninsured populations. We also hear from second-semester nursing student Charity Cordova who wrote a song about learning the Healer's art. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fifty-seventh show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in February 2022.

This week's episode features Ashley Dyer and Kapri Beus, BYU nursing alumni who now work as travel nurses in Boston. Ashley's focus is currently neuroscience and psychiatric nursing; she is also working towards a doctor of nursing practice degree at Johns Hopkins University. Meanwhile, Kapri works in labor and delivery. Both share their nursing advice and experiences from roommates at BYU to roommates in the field. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fifty-sixth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in January 2022.

Today's episode features Mark Slight, a volunteer program administrator for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He explains the need for RNs worldwide to be missionaries for the Church as mission health advisers. We also hear from Verna Nelson, an alumna of the third graduating class of the BYU College of Nursing; she shares experiences from the four missions she served in this role. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fifty-fifth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in January 2022.

This episode features nurse practitioner and alumna Julie Cope who founded BetterThink Practice, an organization focused on client-centered medication management for mental and behavioral health conditions. She helps clients evaluate medication options to treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. We will also hear from certified EFT practitioner Andrea Withers about alternative healing techniques for physical and emotional well-being. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fifty-fourth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in January 2022.

This episode is dedicated to Christina Bohn Rudd, a BYU nursing alumna who died due to premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The show features Laura Murphy, an education director for the International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD). She explains when a menstrual cycle becomes abnormal and the genetic research supporting the imbalance. We also learn how to cope or support others with PMDD. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fifty-third show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in January 2022.

This episode features Tyler Schwab of Operation Underground Railroad. He shares the warning signs of human trafficking and how nurses can protect their patients. Additionally, the BYU Anti-human Trafficking Club encourages students to fight against human rights violations. We also hear from Casey Matheson and Jen Wagenaar, representatives from HCA Healthcare. They explain how nurses can help pay for education costs and get tuition reimbursed with their organization. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fifty-second show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in January 2022.

This episode features nursing alumna Mykin Higbee, who works as a researcher and professor at Utah Valley University. Based on her research, she shares her insights into the effects of caffeine and energy drink consumption. Additionally, she talks about how the nursing education graduate program at UVU provides students with a distinct educational experience. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fifty first show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in November 2021.

This episode features nursing alumna Nicolette Broby, who shares experiences giving humanitarian aid and support to those affected by international disasters. She also provides three principles to consider when you want to help others. We also learn about the college's NEW club—nurses empowering women, discovering its mission, and why you should join the group. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fiftieth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in December 2021.

This episode features nursing alumna Lori Barber. As the nursing division director for the Utah County Health Department, she oversees immunizations, school nurses, healthy baby programs, and more. She explains her career in the family and personal health division and how it keeps individuals and families safe and healthy. We also hear two nursing students share their inspiring learning project to create an immunization awareness campaign for Fijian children. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the forty-ninth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in November 2021.

This episode features Wendy King, a cath lab nurse at Johnson & Johnson. She assists physicians and offers care to cardiac patients during the post-catheterization recovery period. We also hear how to become a cath lab nurse and their primary duties. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the forty-eighth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in October 2021.

This episode features Carlie Gluch, a registered nurse working at the bone marrow transplant unit of the Huntsman Cancer Institute. She discusses her work with patients receiving blood and marrow transplants, working with this population, and ways nurses can support these patients. We also hear from the newly established Utah Chapter of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, including participating in its chapter and planned activities. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the forty-seventh show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in October 2021.

This episode features a discussion with Dr. Deven Jennings, a nurse practitioner specializing in general psychopharmacology and LGBT affirming therapy. He offers specific ways for nurses to provide unbiased care to their patients, including learning to listen and being still more often.  The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the forty-sixth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in October 2021.

This episode features the research of nursing professor Dr. Deborah Himes. She discusses the direct disclosure of genetic information to at-risk family members and their primary care providers. We also hear from Sarah Welty, one of Himes' project assistants who spent the summer at a full-time fellowship in cancer research funded through the BYU Simmons Center for Cancer research. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the forty-fifth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in October 2021.

This episode highlights two nursing recruiters. First, we hear from Amber Brennan of the Veterans Health Administration in Salt Lake City. She shares tips for working with their organization and ways you can find employment--even while still in school. Second, we learn from Hadlee Rose of Ensign Services. They offer post-acute care, including assisted living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitative care in dozens of locations in California, Utah, Texas, Idaho, and Washington. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the forty-fourth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in June and October 2021.

This show features Dr. Kevin McEwan, the chief nursing officer for Madison Memorial Hospital in Idaho. He discusses the role of a CNO, how he advises senior management on best nursing practices, his involvement in creating retention programs, and ways he builds morale for his staff. We also hear from nursing professor Brandon Thatcher who provides an update on the #ThinkLikeANurse campaign and shares a success story. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the forty-third show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in October 2021.

This episode focuses on special nurses for special kids. We will discuss home health pediatrics to care for children living with severe illnesses and support their families. Staff from Ivy Lane Pediatrics in Northern Utah discusses private duty nursing, respite care services, and even pediatric school nursing. Also, Becky Oakley, Brades' Place founder, will explain pediatric palliative care and other home services they arrange.  The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the forty-second show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in October 2021.

This episode highlights MarLeice Hyde, a pain management specialist of California who shares alternative ways she helps her patients with pain and healing. Later, we hear from Dr. Michael Robinson, a new nursing faculty member at the BYU College of Nursing. He explains why being at the university is so rewarding and why he enjoys listening to students—especially those troubled or in need. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the forty-first show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in October 2021.

Today we discuss nurses as leaders and hear two positive examples. First, nursing graduate Jeff Murray, an assistant medical group administrator with Kaiser Permanente in Sacramento, shares why nurses should not shy away from taking on leadership roles to make a difference. Second, fifth-semester nursing student Karissa Hess explains how she and her husband volunteer each summer with Marafiki Africa to support a water project and medical assistance in rural communities. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the fortieth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in September 2021.

Annually, the College of Nursing selects an individual to honor during homecoming week. This year, the college honors Dr. Mary Williams with the Alumni Achievement Award and appreciates her 41 years of service to the college (27-years were spent supporting five college deans as an associate dean). We also hear about BYU's first-year mentor program and how nursing students can serve others in this capacity. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirty-ninth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in August and September 2021.

This episode highlights Eden Lewis, a pulmonary care nurse in North Carolina. She explains her role in helping patients who are suffering from lung and respiratory conditions and how she works with a pulmonologist. We also hear from Denise Mann, a full-time hospice nurse and per diem ICU nurse passionate about end-of-life care.  The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirty-eighth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in May 2021.

This episode focuses on postpartum depression and features Elizabeth Oborn, an L&D nurse in Arizona who is passionate about women's health and is a fierce advocate for pregnant moms to have the birthing experience they want. A second guest is Whitney M. Bassett. She shares her personal story with depression and offers ways nurses can help with mental health concerns and treatment options.  The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirty-seventh show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in June and August 2021.

First, Jeff L. Peery introduces the college's student and alumni mentoring program that pairs individuals together for the semester. He explains how the relationships allow alumni to share their experiences and professional wisdom and give back to BYU while students learn about the career paths of successful alumni. Second, professor Dr. Karen de la Cruz provides a few test-taking strategies from her highly-rated class. Last, we get to know one of the newest professors at the College of Nursing, Sarah Davis!  The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirty-sixth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in August and September 2021.

This episode features nursing graduate program options from Dr. Ryan Rasmussen. He explains advanced degrees available from BYU and other local universities in Utah, such as a master's in nursing, a doctorate in nursing, or a Ph.D. The show also promotes service opportunities from Y-Serve, an on-campus organization that provides ways for you to become a peer mentor or obtain one for most university classes.  The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirty-fifth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in August 2021.

This episode highlights two students that completed their capstone clinical rotations in a rural location. Emma Beaumont and Harper Forsgreen share details of working in a smaller hospital and spending time on multiple units within those facilities—encounters not usually available in more urban settings. We also hear life-balance hacks from nursing professor Gaye Ray and why she has such a positive outlook in her life.  The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirty-fourth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in May and August 2021.

We're back with Season 2, and this episode highlights “Barbara,” a street medic in an American metropolitan area. She and her husband share details of what they do and how they stay safe while providing health care if needed during a riot or protest. In addition, they explain the basics of street medicine, offer resources for getting started, and why it is rewarding. Check back every Tuesday for new episodes, or subscribe now! The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirty-third show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in July 2021.

First, we hear from Emily Royce, a registered nurse at the University of Utah. She shares her unique role of supporting the Indian Health Service program in the state and how her nursing career influences Native Americans to make health a priority. Second, we listen to second-year graduate student Trissa Lyman explaining her master's thesis and how critical access hospital nurses can support end-of-life care. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirty-second show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in April and March 2021.

First, Amy Underwood, an ambulatory care nurse at Kaiser Permanente in California, provides telehealth support for patients to access care, appointments, and treatment plans. Second, associate teaching professor Dr. Leslie Miles shares details of how BYU nursing students are currently participating in telementoring public health sessions with other nursing students in Spain, Finland, and the Czech Republic. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirty-first show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in February and April of 2021.

First, Colleen G. Guymon, the deputy director of clinical services for the Utah State Prison in Salt Lake City, provides a unique perspective to prison nursing and ways her staff makes a difference while serving the incarcerated population. Second, James Reinhardt, a registered nurse at Providence Health & Services in Spokane, Washington, remembers when he spent several clinical shifts at the prison and saw firsthand how nurses provide care in this environment. The College of Nursing at Brigham Young University presents nursing careers and professional insight to undergraduate students. This is the thirtieth show in The College Handoff series and was recorded in March 2021.