Nursing Uncharted

Embracing Change in Modern Nursing with Taniqua Mighty

Nursing is changing fast, and new degrees, more travel gigs, and bedside tech are all part of the ride. In this episode, we chat with neurosurgery nurse Taniqua Mighty about how to roll with these changes, spot new opportunities, and stay connected to what matters in nursing. If you’re ready to grow in your career and rethink what’s possible, this one is for you.   Chapters:  [02:31] Taniqua shares how she got into neurosurgery and talks about her next step to become a nurse practitioner. [05:45] From paper charts to apps: how tech is shaking up the daily grind in nursing. [08:16] Faster advanced degrees and open-book tests? Here’s what’s new (and what it means). [12:59] Why more nurses are hitting the road, and how travel nursing opens doors and changes lives. [20:30] Scrub talk—color codes, personal style, and how your work wardrobe can lift your mood. [26:52] Setting patient expectations: what really matters when you’re juggling so much. [30:33] Nurses have a bigger say—your voice matters more than ever on the care team. [37:10] Taniqua’s parting wisdom: “Nothing grows in a comfort zone.” About Our Guest:  Meet Taniqua Mighty—a neurosurgery nurse who’s spent nine years making a real impact in hospitals. Originally from New York, she found her home in Texas thanks to a travel assignment, and now she’s about to jump into her first nurse practitioner role. Taniqua’s all about embracing change and growth, and her stories are packed with real talk about what it takes to adapt, push your limits, and create new opportunities in nursing today. Follow Taniqua on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/nursemighty_/?hl=en]. CONNECT WITH US If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also find show updates and nursing opportunities on our Instagram at @AMNnurse.   About Ann Ann King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13+ years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 5+ years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing.   Connect with Ann on Instagram: @annifer05 [https://www.instagram.com/annifer05/?hl=en]   Are you interested in coming on as a guest? Send us a message at podcasts@amnhealthcare.com   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/nursing-uncharted/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU]today!  Do you know a nurse looking to get into travel? Refer a friend to AMN today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility]!  Learn more about AMN Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility].    Join Our Other Nursing Communities:  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/nursinguncharted] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnnurse] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nursing-uncharted/id1570694185] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1btLYaMHoabT3icqGUgesB] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/amn-healthcare/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/amnhealthcare/] Powered by AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Finding Your "Why" & The Journey from Travel to Staff Nursing with Alex Craft

In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, we sit down with Alex, a dedicated nurse with nearly 12 years of experience, from rehab facilities to Level 1 trauma centers. Alex joins us to share her personal and inspiring journey. She opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her career and the "why" behind her passion for nursing. Alex's emotional story begins with how her mother's battle with stage 4 lung cancer influenced her decision to enter the field. She recalls the compassion shown by her mother's oncology nurses—not just during treatment, but even after her passing—and how that level of care became the standard she strives for today. Alex also discusses her transition into travel nursing during the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges of balancing single motherhood with a demanding career, and her decision to plant roots as a staff nurse. This is a candid look at the life of a traveler, the importance of a supportive recruiter, and the beauty of finding a hospital unit that feels like family. Alex’s story of resilience, advocacy, and finding joy in the midst of chaos is sure to resonate. KEY TAKEAWAYS * The Power of a Personal "Why": Alex shares the touching story of losing her mother to cancer, and how the nurses who cared for her mom inspired her own nursing philosophy. * Travel Nursing Experiences: Insights into travel nursing during the pandemic, the benefits of seeing how different hospitals operate, and why Alex believes every nurse should try traveling at least once. * Transitioning to Staff: How Alex decided to leave the travel life for a permanent staff position and the positive impact she makes by bringing outside perspectives to her new unit. * Balancing Career and Single Motherhood: A vulnerable discussion about "mom guilt," the logistics of childcare, and the drive to provide a good life for her son. * The Nurse-Recruiter Relationship: The critical role a supportive recruiter plays in a traveler's success and mental well-being. * Advocacy in Action: How experienced nurses can advocate for their patients and fellow staff members to improve unit culture and patient care. TIMESTAMPS * 00:00 – Intro and welcome. * 00:48 – Alex’s introduction and nursing background. * 01:13 – The emotional story behind why Alex chose nursing. * 04:22 – Finding passion in nursing after 12 years. * 06:04 – Starting travel nursing during COVID-19 and becoming a mom. * 09:03 – Bringing a traveler’s perspective to a staff role. * 12:19 – The importance of a welcoming unit culture. * 16:34 – Navigating single motherhood while working as a traveler. * 20:00 – Building a strong relationship with a recruiter. * 26:16 – Advice for single moms in nursing. * 27:06 – Future goals: Teaching the next generation of nurses.   CONNECT WITH US If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also find show updates and nursing opportunities on our Instagram at @AMNnurse.   CONNECT WITH US If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also find show updates and nursing opportunities on our Instagram at @AMNnurse.   About Ann Ann King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13+ years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 5+ years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing.   Connect with Ann on Instagram: @annifer05 [https://www.instagram.com/annifer05/?hl=en]   Are you interested in coming on as a guest? Send us a message at podcasts@amnhealthcare.com   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/nursing-uncharted/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU]today!  Do you know a nurse looking to get into travel? Refer a friend to AMN today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility]!  Learn more about AMN Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility].    Join Our Other Nursing Communities:  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/nursinguncharted] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnnurse] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nursing-uncharted/id1570694185] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1btLYaMHoabT3icqGUgesB] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/amn-healthcare/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/amnhealthcare/] Powered by AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Importance of Nurse-Recruiter Relationships with Audrey Tate

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS & KEY THEMES * The Power of the Recruiter Relationship: We discuss why the bond between a travel nurse and their recruiter is the cornerstone of a successful assignment. Trust, vulnerability, and clear communication help navigate the ups and downs of travel healthcare. * Why Nurses Travel Today: The motivations for hitting the road are changing. We explore factors like flexibility, leadership shifts in hospitals, cost of living pressures, and maintaining financial stability. * AMN Passport App: Discover how technology is streamlining the travel experience. We break down the features of the AMN Passport app, from finding positions to managing credentials and connecting with a community of peers. * Valuing Experience and Certifications: A look at how specialized skills and certifications should be recognized and how they impact placement and career growth. * Support Beyond the Bedside: How AMN supports nurses holistically, including platforms like this podcast and continuing education resources. TIMESTAMPS * 00:01:16 – How AMN supports nurses beyond the bedside * 00:02:21 – Meet Audrey Tate: The role of a recruiter * 00:04:12 – The importance of the nurse-recruiter relationship * 00:15:38 – The financial realities and cost of living challenges for travelers * 00:19:00 – Evolving reasons why nurses choose to travel * 00:36:10 – AMN Passport app features * 00:51:10 – Recognizing and valuing nurse experience and certifications ABOUT OUR GUEST Audrey Tate is a Senior Travel Nurse Recruiter with AMN Healthcare and brings a wealth of knowledge about the industry. She emphasizes the "human" side of recruiting, advocating for vulnerability and trust as key components of professional relationships.  RESOURCES & LINKS * AMN Passport App: Download the app to view available positions, manage credentials, and track your impact. * AMN Healthcare Learning Center: Access free continuing education units (CEUs) and certification assistance. Visit AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/] * Nursing Uncharted: Learn more about the show and past episodes. JOIN THE CONVERSATION If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Nursing Uncharted on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us reach more nurses and healthcare professionals. CONNECT WITH US If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also find show updates and nursing opportunities on our Instagram at @AMNnurse.   About Ann Ann King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13+ years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 5+ years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing.   Connect with Ann on Instagram: @annifer05 [https://www.instagram.com/annifer05/?hl=en]   Are you interested in coming on as a guest? Send us a message at podcasts@amnhealthcare.com   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/nursing-uncharted/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU]today!  Do you know a nurse looking to get into travel? Refer a friend to AMN today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility]!  Learn more about AMN Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility].    Join Our Other Nursing Communities:  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/nursinguncharted] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnnurse] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nursing-uncharted/id1570694185] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1btLYaMHoabT3icqGUgesB] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/amn-healthcare/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/amnhealthcare/] Powered by AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Manifesting Your Best Year Yet

Episode Highlights Reflecting on 2025 & Setting Intentions Ann shares how embracing the "good, the bad, and the ugly" of 2025 helped shape her current perspective. Rather than setting rigid resolutions that can lead to failure, the focus shifts to setting up a state of being. The chosen word for 2026 is "Manifest." This isn't about passively wishing for success or happiness; it is about visualizing where you want your life to go and actively doing the hard work to get there. The "Work" in Nursing The concept of "putting in the work" translates directly to the bedside. Nurses don't just show up and check tasks off a list. They use their brains, hearts, and intuition to advocate for patients who may not speak up for themselves. Ann discusses how to be fully present and proactive in patient care, rather than just existing in the role. Mental Health and Recognizing "Empty Cup" Moments A key segment of this episode involves a raw personal story about reaching an emotional limit. Ann recounts a specific shift involving a critically ill infant and a challenging interaction with a patient's father. She knew she was burnt out and couldn't respond with the empathy the situation needed. By stepping away and asking her Charge Nurse for help, she protected both her own mental health and patient experience. Work-Life Balance & Self-Care Nurses give endlessly, often sacrificing their own well-being. This episode emphasizes the necessity of filling your cup back up, whether that's through a free activity or a financial splurge. Ann shares her decision to book a five-day trip to Mexico with a friend. Despite financial goals, she recognized the need for a reset to maintain her passion for her career. The Evolving Landscape of Healthcare As we move into 2026, the healthcare and travel nursing industries continue to shift. The host touches on the excitement surrounding these changes, the recovery from post-COVID transitions, and what the future holds for travel nursing.    Key Takeaways Manifestation requires action: You cannot wait for someone else to fix your life or hand you success; you must pull yourself up and do the work. It's okay to tap out: Recognizing when you have "nothing left to give" is a strength, not a weakness. It ensures patient safety and preserves your sanity. Prioritize the reset: Whether it's a vacation or a small treat, reclaiming your time off is essential to surviving life at the bedside. Embrace the unknown: Healthcare changes are inevitable. Approaching them with excitement rather than fear can change your entire experience. CONNECT WITH US If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also find show updates and nursing opportunities on our Instagram at @AMNnurse.   About Ann Ann King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13+ years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 5+ years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing.   Connect with Ann on Instagram: @annifer05 [https://www.instagram.com/annifer05/?hl=en]   Are you interested in coming on as a guest? Send us a message at podcasts@amnhealthcare.com   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/nursing-uncharted/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU]today!  Do you know a nurse looking to get into travel? Refer a friend to AMN today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility]!  Learn more about AMN Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility].    Join Our Other Nursing Communities:  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/nursinguncharted] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnnurse] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nursing-uncharted/id1570694185] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1btLYaMHoabT3icqGUgesB] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/amn-healthcare/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/amnhealthcare/] Powered by AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Embracing Change and Moving Forward

Episode Overview In this solo episode, Ann wraps up 2025 by looking back on a year filled with growth, change, and plenty of new experiences. Her word for the year, "embrace," set the tone for everything she did—good, bad, or in between. From going back to her favorite travel nursing assignment to making new friends and tackling the ups and downs of adulting, Ann shares what she learned along the way. This episode is all about finding the good, holding onto meaningful connections, and focusing on the little wins. About the Host Ann is a NICU travel nurse and the voice behind Nursing Uncharted. With more than six years on the road, she brings real stories and straight talk to nurses everywhere. Ann loves connecting with the nursing community and sharing both the highs and the challenges of the job. Key Topics & Timestamps [00:00:00] Looking Back and Picking a Word Ann kicks things off by sharing her tradition of picking a word for the year. For 2025, “embrace” led the way and shaped how she tackled new situations. [00:02:40] Trips, Memories, and Happy Moments Ann tells us about her “ski trip” (where she didn’t actually ski!) with friends, and how flipping through old photos helped her remember all the good times that might have slipped her mind. [00:06:05] Going Back to a Favorite Assignment A call out of the blue brings Ann back to a hospital she loves. She talks about what it’s like to be remembered after years away, and how the place and people have changed and grown. [00:11:00] Travel Nursing: Lonely but Rewarding Ann gets real about how travel nursing can feel isolating, but explains how the friendships and warm welcomes make it all worthwhile. [00:13:08] Working Holidays as a Nurse Ann shares her thoughts on holiday shifts—why she doesn’t mind working if it means coworkers with families can be home, and how important it is to be there for patients and their loved ones. [00:17:15] Podcasting as Therapy Ann talks about how hosting her podcast helps her work through tough moments, connect with others, and keep growing personally and professionally. [00:22:20] Focusing on the Good Stuff Looking through photos, Ann realizes that this year had a lot of fun, even if it was hard. She encourages everyone to spot and appreciate the highs, no matter how tough things get. [00:25:05] Making Friends and Embracing Adulting She tells the story of meeting a new friend at the gym and shares some honest takes about moving, budgeting, and all the random challenges that come with getting older. [00:27:54] Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead Ann thanks everyone for being part of her journey. She invites listeners to check out the next episode for her 2026 plans, and welcomes anyone interested in being a guest to reach out. Notable Quotes "My journey in 2025 was about embracing everything—good, bad, and ugly." "The way people welcomed me back was the most fulfilling feeling I’ve had in a long time." "Sometimes you just have to step back and remember why you do what you do." "We capture smiles and fun in our photos—rarely the rough days—and that’s a good reminder to choose positivity." "Even when half the year was rough, there were still positives that made it better." CONNECT WITH US If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also find show updates and nursing opportunities on our Instagram at @AMNnurse.   About Ann Ann King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13+ years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 5+ years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing.   Connect with Ann on Instagram: @annifer05 [https://www.instagram.com/annifer05/?hl=en]   Are you interested in coming on as a guest? Send us a message at podcasts@amnhealthcare.com   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/nursing-uncharted/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=promotion&utm_content=NU]today!  Do you know a nurse looking to get into travel? Refer a friend to AMN today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility]!  Learn more about AMN Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Nursing%20Uncharted%20Podcast&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=visibility].    Join Our Other Nursing Communities:  * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/nursinguncharted] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnnurse] * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nursing-uncharted/id1570694185] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1btLYaMHoabT3icqGUgesB] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/amn-healthcare/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/amnhealthcare/] Powered by AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.