The Mindful Aspiring CRNA Podcast

Ep 24: Real Talk: Your Top Questions on the CRNA Journey Answered

You asked & I answered! I recently did a LIVE on IG and there were a TON of questions in the chat so I thought I'd do something different and answer them in this episode. Whether you're applying to CRNA school, in the thick of school, or a new grad navigating your first job, I've got practical tips, encouragement, and honest insight to help you thrive. Here's what I cover: * Is it worth it to do Mock Interviews? * What to do if you have a low GPA * How to study for the GRE & CCRN? * How to secure shadowing * Should I work independently or do locums right out of CRNA school? * Are you supported & respected at CRNA only facilities? * What is the work-life balance as a CRNA for real? * How do I best support my spouse who is in CRNA school? * Do I have any regrets about becoming a CRNA? This one's a mix of personal experience and encouragement. Enjoy! 💬 Got more questions? Let's connect: @amandakcrna [https://www.instagram.com/amandakcrna/] Want more CRNA lifestyle? Follow @crna_wellness [https://www.instagram.com/crna_wellness/] 📲 Want coaching or support? Visit www.amandakaycrna.com [https://www.themindfulsrna.com] 💻 Resources & Links Mentioned: * CRNA Roadmap Program [https://the-mindful-srna.teachable.com/p/getting-you-into-crna-school] for RNs * The Ultimate Interview Prep Bundle [https://the-mindful-srna.teachable.com/p/the-ultimate-crna-school-interview-prep-bundle] for CRNA School Interviews * Podcast Episode: Marriage, Finances & CRNA School [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindful-srna-rrna-podcast/id1705935209?i=1000698304392] * LIVE: Are you Abdicating your Life? [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROJHVJazrDA&t=1312s] The Good, The Bad, The Ugly of my CRNA School Journey * GRE & CCRN Resources: * GRE: Magoosh, GRE Mat [https://www.youtube.com/@gregmat8036] & Kaplan * CCRN: Laura Gasparis [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-tq-U3Lq9FetK9ExqrgFDA], Barron's CCRN Exam, Nicole Kupchik [https://onlinecourses.nicolekupchikconsulting.com/courses/ccrn-certification-review-course]

Ep. 23: No Straight Path to CRNA: Overcoming Delays & Doubts with Kiki CRNA

In this episode, I sit down with Kiki CRNA Founder & CEO of The Society of Future Nurses Anesthetists for an honest and inspiring conversation about her unconventional path to becoming a CRNA . From cosmetology and engineering to surgical tech and ICU nursing, Kiki's journey proves that there's no one "right" way to get into CRNA school. Kiki shares raw and honest insights about: ✨ Our biggest limitations in becoming a CRNA & the question you should be asking yourself ✨ Incredible Advice for parents in CRNA School ✨ Her unique journey to CRNA school acceptance ✨ Advice on what to do if you're waitlisted ✨ How she handled the toxic culture of nurses eating their young, a CRNA school rejection and how waiting costed her 2 million dollars ✨ Does age matter when going to CRNA school? ✨ Did she enjoy CRNA school and what she wishes she did differently. ✨ The truth about CRNA mentorship—should you really pay? ✨ Balancing CRNA life, family, and running four businesses. ✨How to be competitive applicant in 2025 ✨ What do you do if you're facing dismissal or really struglling in CRNA school right now? If you've ever doubted yourself, struggled in CRNA school, or wondered if mentorship is worth it, this episode is packed with powerful insights to help you take control of your journey. 📩 Need support? Connect with Kiki and explore mentorship opportunities at: 📌 Follow Kiki on IG @thecrnachase [https://www.instagram.com/thecrnachase/] The CRNA Chase Blog [https://thecrnachase.com/blog/] Society of Future Nurse Anesthetists Website [https://www.futurecrnasociety.org/become-a-member] FB Page: Your Future CRNA Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/futurecrnasociety]

Ep 22: How to Lead, Learn, & Thrive in the Periop Environment with Sara Frey BSN, RN, CGRN

In this episode of The Mindful SRNA/RRNA Podcast, I sit down with Sara Frey BSN, RN, CGRN and clinical shift coordinator of endoscopy, to talk about leadership, teamwork, communication and the power of continuous learning in the perioperative environment. Sara's diverse nursing journey has given her a unique perspective on leadership, teamwork, and growth—and she's sharing practical insights that you can apply now and as a future CRNA, without burning out. Whether you're an SRNA, RRNA, or experienced nurse, this episode is packed with strategies to help you navigate clinical environments, support your team, and grow into a confident leader. 🎙️ In this episode, we dive into: ✔️ How leadership isn't just about a title—it's about how you show up ✔️ Learning from everyone in the OR (yes, even the ones you don't always agree with!) ✔️ Looking for opportunities to fill the gap and step up as a leader ✔️ Why setting small goals and lowering the bar can actually reduce burnout ✔️ The reality of "you don't know what you don't know"—and how to bridge the gap ✔️ Leadership values you can implement now and carry into your CRNA career ✔️ What nurses look for in SRNAs/RRNAs and how to make a great impression ✔️ Communication tips for surgeons—what they actually appreciate in a conversation ✔️ Strategies for handling burnout and stress in high-pressure environments ✔️ The power of check-ins—how small momennts can create big impacts ✔️ Balancing work & motherhood—real talk on managing both worlds If you're looking for real-world leadership lessons and communication skills that will serve you now and throughout your CRNA career, this episode is for you! 🔗 Listen now and start leading from where you are! Follow Sara @bshfrey [https://www.instagram.com/bshfrey/] on IG.

Ep 21: 💍 Marriage, Finances & CRNA School – How to Make It Work! 💉

In this episode, I sat down with Kate Bekken, SRNA/RRNA, and her husband, Zach, to dive deep into what it really takes to balance love, finances, and sacrifices while navigating CRNA school. From managing career shifts to staying connected as a couple, they dropped some GEMS you won't want to miss! We Cover It All, Including: ❤️ Kate's journey to CRNA school – from NP aspirations to landing a spot after mock interviews ❤️ How many schools she applied to, her GPA, and nursing experience ❤️ Zach's career sacrifices and how he balanced his job with Kate's demanding clinical schedule ❤️ How non-medical spouses can support aspiring CRNAs and key conversations to have with employers and each other ❤️ Communicating expectations and setting a shared vision for the future ❤️ Handling multiple moves for school and staying flexible as a couple ❤️ How Kate manages relationships inside and outside of CRNA school ❤️ Staying connected as a couple – avoiding burnout and prioritizing quality time ❤️ Is a 4.0 GPA really worth it? Shifting priorities and adjusting expectations ❤️ Finances, marriage, and the realities of CRNA school – budgeting and planning for success ❤️ Managing resentment and navigating the emotional burdens of school Kate and Zach's transparency and wisdom offer incredible insights for couples who are considering—or currently facing—the challenges of CRNA school together. Whether you're an aspiring CRNA or a supportive partner, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you thrive in both marriage and school. 🎧 Tune in now and take notes – your future self will thank you! LINKS MENTIONED in the Episode: My LIVE on IG @amandakcrna [https://www.instagram.com/tv/Cbx4I6ZKouI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D] Kates IG: https://www.instagram.com/kate_srna/ @kate_srna [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCGhMp9AcV_XNfBb26vhtsCw] #CRNA #MarriageGoals #CRNASchool #Relationships #SRNA #WorkLifeBalance #FutureCRNA #NurseAnesthesia #LoveAndSacrifice

Ep. 20: Finding the Right CRNA Job & Navigating Recruiters with Keith Evola of KTE Services

Are CRNA recruiters really as bad as people say? 🤔 In this episode, I sit down with Keith Evola, President of KTE Services, an anesthesia recruiting company with 24+ years of experience, to spill all the tea on CRNA job hunting, contracts, and recruiters. We're diving into: ✅ The bad rep recruiters get & how Keith handles hate comments ✅ How new grads can protect themselves from bad job deals ✅ The best questions to ask when looking for a CRNA job ✅ Sign-on bonuses, non-compete clauses & contract red flags 🚨 ✅ Should you sign a contract in CRNA school? ✅ What really matters in choosing a hospital or practice ✅ Should you work in a surgery center, office, or hospital first? ✅ The must-haves on your CRNA CV ✍️ ✅ What if you don't feel confident in regionals before finding a job? 💡 Keith's philosophy? Leave people better than you found them and meaningful conversations matter. Grab your notes and get ready to feel EMPOWERED about your CRNA job search! So many paths exist in this career—let's explore them together. 📌 Resources & Links: 🔗 KTE Services Website Link [https://www.ktemedicaljobs.com] Connect with KTE services on Instagram @ktemedicaljobs [https://www.instagram.com/ktemedicaljobs/] 📚Check out my Boards & Beyonds program [https://the-mindful-srna.teachable.com/p/preparing-for-life-after-crna-school-prepping-for-boards-choosing-a-job] which gives you real-world career insights to help you choose your first CRNA job without all the overwhelm of contracts and malpractice PLUS tackle test anxiety and self doubt while creating an effective study plan for the SEE & NCE. Get signed up here [https://the-mindful-srna.teachable.com/p/preparing-for-life-after-crna-school-prepping-for-boards-choosing-a-job]! 🎧 Tune in now & share this with a fellow SRNA or CRNA who's job hunting!