The CRNA Club Podcast

Looking to score a CRNA shadow experience but hitting dead ends? You're not alone, and this episode will give you everything you need to confidently find and maximize your shadowing opportunities. In this episode, we discuss why shadowing a CRNA is an unspoken must, even if not technically required by every program. You'll learn how to find shadow experiences in creative, effective ways - from reaching out to state organizations and cold-emailing clinics, to attending AANA meetings and connecting with SRNA programs in your area. Plus, we dive into exactly how to prepare so that your shadow day becomes a standout addition to your application, not just a checkbox. Stay till the end for specific, actionable email tips and unconventional resources to help you break through the noise and get that valuable OR time. Ready to crush your CRNA goals? Check out the links below to access your free 7-day trial of The CRNA Club Membership—your go-to resource for shadow day prep, resume help, and more. RESOURCES TO HELP YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY:

Why are CRNAs always talking about politics? In this episode, we break down the “why” behind some of the most talked-about issues in the CRNA world, giving you the foundational knowledge you'll need as you step into this profession. In this episode, we discuss what it means to be an "opt-out" state, how the CMS 2001 ruling opened the door for CRNAs to practice independently, and why this matters so much, especially in rural and veteran care. You'll also hear about the critical role CRNAs play in underserved areas, and why the rise of Anesthesiologist Assistants (AAs) has stirred up concerns about patient care and workplace dynamics. Stick around until the end for key takeaways on how YOU can advocate for the profession, even as an applicant, and why your voice matters more than ever. Don't forget to check out the links below to get access to a free 7-day trial of The CRNA Club Membership! RESOURCES TO HELP YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY:

In this episode of The CRNA Club Podcast, we're discussing the pros and cons of front-loaded CRNA programs. If you're in the thick of school selection or just curious about what front-loaded actually means for your day-to-day life and long-term success, this one's for you. You'll hear firsthand insights from someone who thrived in a front-loaded setup, plus perspectives from current SRNA Courtney Lamb, who completed her didactic year remotely. We break down the major perks (like cost savings, staying local, and building a solid academic foundation) as well as the potential downsides (isolation, delayed hands-on clinical exposure, and how your learning style plays into it). By the end, you'll walk away with a clearer idea of whether this structure aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and learning preferences.

In this episode, we break down the must-know tips for mastering your CRNA school interviews, both in-person and virtual. From what to wear and how to carry yourself, to navigating awkward silences, computer glitches, and high-pressure clinical questions, we're covering it all. You'll also learn how to let your personality shine through, use the STAR method to answer emotional intelligence questions, and how to handle it when your mind goes blank. Stick around to the end for practical advice on how to mentally prepare and show up as the best version of yourself on interview day. Make sure to check out the links below to get access to a free 7-day trial of The CRNA Club Membership where we have interview prep, study guides, worksheets, drug charts and more to help you with your interview prep! RESOURCES TO HELP YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY:

Your resume is one of the most critical pieces of your application. In this episode, we break down real resume mistakes from past applicants and shares expert tips on formatting, credentials, ICU experience, and leadership sections that admissions committees actually want to see. Learn what to include (and what to ditch) to create a competitive, clean, and compelling resume. RESOURCES TO HELP YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY:

In this episode, we're diving into one of the most common and most anxiety-inducing questions for aspiring CRNAs: How many programs should you apply to? Should you cast a wide net and apply to 10+ schools, or go all-in on your top two choices? We break it all down and give you a realistic, strategic approach to help you decide what's best based on your unique situation.RESOURCES TO HELP YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY:

In today's episode, we discuss reapplying, specifically applying twice—to the same CRNA program. We cover actionable strategies, mindset shifts, and realistic expectations you'll need to turn a second (or third) submission into a success story.RESOURCES TO HELP YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY:

In this episode we break down how you decide WHICH AANA meeting you're going to attend, whether that's a state or national meeting. Tune in to figure out which one is the best option for you! And check out our CRNA Club Membership where you can connect with other applicants going to these meetings, plus get all the resources you need (like business card templates, questions to ask, resources to bring) to make it well worth it! RESOURCES TO HELP YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY:

In this episode we go over the 10 most asked questions that I get from applicants. We'll explore strategies for strengthening your application, from targeting specific programs to boosting your GPA and choosing the right graduate-level courses. We'll discuss GPA calculation, CV vs. Resumes, and who to ask for those crucial letters of recommendation. Plus, we'll break down the personal statement (even when there's no prompt!) and give you insider tips on acing the interview, including handling clinical questions, EQ assessments, and those unexpected left-fielders.RESOURCES TO HELP YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY:

We've been working on our brand new CRNA Club Membership for the past year and it's FINALLY here. It's MORE than just a membership, it's an entire ecosystem of tools, resources, videos and a community. You get access to our School Database (totally upgraded, btw), over 60+ video lessons covering the entire application process and pharm + patho review. Plus swipe files, templates, study guides + done for you resources. Plus, a community of applicants who are go-getters just like you. Join us! CHECK OUT THE CRNA CLUB MEMBERSHIP HERE!Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/thecrnaclub/

In this Walk + Talk episode, come with me on a bike path walk as we discuss preparing for a State or National Conference, how to decide which one to go to, what days, and what you should be doing a month out from the meeting (aka. how to prepare!).

On the fence?! Just do it! It'll be worth it I promise. Professor Temmermand and I will be there. If you need a little convincing to join us at the AANA Annual Congress, take a listen!

Stemming from a text I got from a Program Director, this episode is meant to just be a quick reminder of what NOT to do. Trust me, you don't want to be that guy.

You'd be surprised at how many people fumble basic questions. Yes, some schools hit heavy on the clinical content, but MOST will at least have several EQ questions. You might not know the answer to a clinical question (and it might still be just fine), but if you fumble an EQ question, whelp...you won't be so lucky.

Why we love being CRNAs! This episode is meant to encourage you to keep going and help you see the light at the end of the tunnel. It's not easy, but it's worth it, I promise!

Feel like your personal statement is just a box to check on your CRNA school application?Think again! In this episode we dive into the art and power of storytelling in your personal statement and explain why your personal statement is more important than ever. Plus some tips to help you write an essay that will knock it out of the park.Doors are now open for our Accelerator program, check it out here before doors close on 5/4: https://thecrnaclub.com/accelerator-bundle-deal

This episode we discuss three crucial things you should know before applying to CRNA school, especially considering how competitive it has become.We've got a 2-Day Challenge coming up on April 23rd and 24th, we're going to uncover your application blindspot and develop a plan of action to address your weak spots. Register below! 4/23 + 4/24 TWO DAY CHALLENGE: UNCOVERING YOUR APPLICATION BLINDSPOT - Register Now!

Let's discuss what it means to take a step back and look at your application from a couple of different angles. Sure, a high GPA helps, but if you're missing some of these key things even a 4.0 won't be enough. We've got a 2-Day Challenge coming up on April 23rd and 24th, we're going to uncover your application blindspot and develop a plan of action to address your weak spots. Register below! 4/23 + 4/24 TWO DAY CHALLENGE: UNCOVERING YOUR APPLICATION BLINDSPOT - Register Now!

If you're in the planning phase, this episode is for you. Let's break down each key piece of you application and the timeline for completing each milestone. Register for the free roadmap planning workshop below! FREE WORKSHOP 4/7/2024 - CREATING YOUR APPLICATION ROADMAP

It's not just ONE thing that's going to make you competitive. It's checking the boxes in a few areas. Tune into this episode to see what piece of the puzzle you're missing, and what you can do about it!

Did you know programs don't all look at the same type of GPA, or calculate it in the same way? This week on the podcast we break down what you need to know about calculating your GPA, and how to strategize based on your GPA.

We've seen a LOT of resumes, and in this episode we dive into the top self-sabotaging mistakes that we see applicants make. Your resume is your chance to capture the admission faculty's attention, and entice them to invite you for an interview. Take a listen to learn how to craft a strategic resume. Resume Templates plus over 50+ prompts - grab yours here! Just $37

There's a LOT that goes into picking your programs. And not all schools are created equal. In this episode I'll share with you the mistakes that I made when picking programs, and give you some tips on some things you should consider, that some people overlook (and it costs them later!). Looking for CRNA schools? - check out our School Database Tool to find your schools in a matter of clicks!

We've seen a TON of applicants this past year. Some implementing some moves that really made a difference for them in the application process. It's incredible how competitive programs are now, and in this episode we're breaking down some strategies you can activate to help you stand out and set yourself apart.

An unfiltered, unedited episode about a question that I got in Office Hours the other day, and I was mad that this is even an issue. Might delete later, who knows

Your Shadow Day isn't a passive experience. It's a day that you should be prepared for, have done research for, and show up prepared with specific objectives. How many hours should you shadow? What questions do you ask? We're covering it all.

Podcast takeover alert! RNs Max and Anna introduce a new, free resource and support community for nursing students. The RN Roadmap Zoom calls are a safe space to gain support, insight, and guidance from ICU nurses who traveled the same path before you. Sign up to get the Zoom link emailed to you: https://learn.thecrnaclub.com/rn-roadmap

Ashley is an Accelerator student and ER turned ICU nurse. We had the pleasure of meeting up in Seattle, and I got to watch this extrovert first hand work her magic. In addition to being incredibly supportive of her peers, Ashley is incredibly encouraging and gives us an inside peek into what her application journey has been like thus far. Just as a side note, but computer was NOT happy and was a *tad* laggy. There are times where my audio cuts out or overlaps with hers, sorry about that! Looking for CRNA schools? - check out our School Database Tool to find your schools in a matter of clicks!Curious to see how competitive of a CRNA School Applicant you are? Take the quiz here.Let's be friend on the 'gram: thecrnaclub.We've got TONS of free resources to turbo-boost you to pressing "submit" on that application, check us out online at The CRNA Club.com

I've had the privilege of following Kyle's journey over the past year. Seeing him work hard and navigate the ups and downs of applying to CRNA school has been incredibly inspiring. Kyle was faced with some tough decisions along the way, tune in to find out why he turned down an acceptance, and what ultimately moved the needle for him. Follow Kyle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/credleanesthesia/Check out his blog: https://emergencytoanesthesia.com/

Professor Rhea Temmerand and Sachi dish the behind the scenes on their recent trip to Seattle for the 2023 AANA Annual Congress. What they planned vs. what really happened, the highlights of the experiences, and what they'll do differently next time. (We met a TON of awesome applicants, residents, and CRNAs, we couldn't mention everyone, but know we truly loved connecting with each and every single one of you)

Your critical care experience sets a solid foundation for CRNA school, here are 6 things that you should focus on while you're in the ICU. BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Finding support, whether that is through mentorship, coaching, or even friends and family is key to making it through both a rigorous application process as well as CRNA school itself. Programs and faculty vary in the level of support, as well as the culture of different clinical sites. Being adaptable, receptive, and resilient is key. Amanda is a big advocate for building a support system, and focusing on your mental health through school. In this episode she walks us through her challenging experiences during CRNA school, and how she is helping others become successful SRNAs and CRNAs. You can work with her here! And give her a follow on Instagram @amandakcrnaBRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Planning to take your CCRN? Nick, founder of CCRN prep Critical Care Academy, shares with us insight about the exam, how many test questions you should plan to take, and what the latest update to the exam is. He gives us his best tips! And don't forget, you can use code "crna10" to enroll in his CCRN Review Course with 10% off! CCRN Review Course by Critical Care AcademyFollow Nick on Instagram!BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Dr. Diane Cady, our resident word wizard here at the CRNA Club, shares some tips and advice surrounding crafting a personal essay that captivates. Dr. Cady is a development editor, and has helped some of the most talented professionals get into some of the most competitive programs in the country, across all fields. She has a gift for working with "even the draftiest of drafts". With the transition to all programs being Doctorate degrees, the essay is more important than ever. Listen to learn how to write an essay that is polished and perfected. BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Talk about INSPIRING. Our favorite CRNA Dream Team, Vinny and Amber, dropped some major bombs on mindset, working toward your goals with intention, and what life looks like as a 1099 CRNA (spoiler alert, it looks pretty freakin' good). Follow them on IG: https://www.instagram.com/amber_crna/https://www.instagram.com/vinny2guns_/Find them on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thisisdreamteamBRAND SPANKIN' NEW

In this episode, current SRNA Moneer shares his secret sauce, how he finally got in after multiple application cycles, and his superpower that has gotten him far. Edit: We want to be clear that Moneer got his Master's degree and did achieve a >3.6 GPA in that achievement. We're not sure if we mentioned that, but for full transparency, that was a big game changer for him!BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Let's break down the most common FAQs from applicants (and the answers). Not all the rumors are true!BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Our SRNAs have spoken! 5 tips from SRNAs for your application process. Getting into CRNA school is HARD. But you know what? We're here to help. Oh, and don't miss the last tip- it's the best one! BRAND SPANKIN' NEWGet on the Waitlist for CRNA School Application Accelerator

Dr. Rhea Temmermand is a faculty member, full time researcher, textbook editor, and downright impressive CRNA. In this episode, she shares with us what she looks for in CRNA school applicants, gives some tips on how to stand out, and drops a big knowledge bomb on a piece of the application puzzle that is more important than ever. BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

In this guest episode, Communications Coach and professional actress Michelle Miller gives some pointed advice on how to better communicate, appear and feel more confident, and how to prepare and handle high stress situations (like your CRNA school interview). She also specializes in storytelling, which is KEY in both the interview process as well as the personal essay. She dishes some exercises and actionable tips to help you remain cool, calm, and collected. I guarantee you'll learn a TON. Check out Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellesimonemiller/ BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Applying to nursing school and CRNA school are two different beasts. Tune in to listen to what makes the CRNA school application process DIFFERENT, and what you can do about it to maximize your efforts. BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Being a new graduate in the ICU is tough. BEYOND tough. Being in the right ICU, with the right culture, with the right people all help, but Vincent unlocks some major gems on what else it takes to succeed. Follow Vincent on IG: https://www.instagram.com/vincentdoann/Check out his YouTube ChannelBRAND SPANKIN' NEW

The quickest way to getting into CRNA school? Getting a coveted new graduate ICU job. In this episode, graduating nursing student Anna gives us some insider tips on how to weed out bad new grad ICU job offers from good ones, and how to ensure you're getting high acuity experience that checks the right boxes for your future CRNA school application. BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Thoughts on my drive home from work. 3 things I repeat over and over again. A bit of coughing because, you know, germs. And just an unfiltered, real life episode for ya. BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

My love note to you. A gentle reminder to myself. And how to run a marathon. BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Sorry for the clickbait headline (sorta, haha) but there are some key, avoidable mistakes that I see people making over and over again that I want to MAKE SURE you don't make. Let's discuss 3 reasons why people don't get into CRNA school.BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

In the past few years, the CRNA school application pool has gotten a lot more competitive. This might be due to social media, the increased awareness about the profession, or maybe even the fact that Covid was incredibly stressful for nurses and that lit a fire underneath them to pursue the next steps in their careers. Regardless, it takes a lot more to get into CRNA school now then it did 5 years ago. I'm uncovering your secret-weapon for applying to CRNA school, don't miss this!BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

Better than being a Karen, be a Chatty Cathy. Here's why. It's CRNA-related. I swear. BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

So you might be like many people and wonder when you're actually going to be ready or rather feel ready to apply to CRNA School. And the answer might shock you. You might never truly feel ready. However here are some signs that you can consider to see if it's time you start working on the CRNA school application.BRAND SPANKIN' NEW

There is a lot to do during that year or two that you are getting critical care experience. It's going to go by FAST. One of the biggest mistakes we see applicants making is not starting to prepare soon enough. So today we are going to be talking about 3 key things that you should be doing in the ICU while you are getting your Critical Care experience.BRAND SPANKIN' NEW