In this episode, I sit down with my former colleague and friend, Nicole Kellogg, CRNA, as she shares her inspiring journey of balancing CRNA school, motherhood, and marriage. Nicole opens up about the challenges she faced, from navigating difficult conversations with her husband to managing the demands of school with two kids—all during a pandemic!

In this episode, we cover:
👉 Nicole’s journey from aspiring lawyer to CRNA
👉 How she brought up CRNA school to her husband and navigated that tough conversation
👉 Should you apply to just one program?
👉 Handling doubts about balancing CRNA school with two kids
👉 Were there fears of damaging her kids?
👉 Transitioning into CRNA school and surviving it during a pandemic
👉 Working ahead with board studying + NCE tips
👉 Should you work during CRNA school?
👉 How she balanced clinicals all day and being a mom at night
👉 Managing marriage, kids, and the heavy demands of school
👉 Her stressful first day as a CRNA and transitioning into her new role
👉 Facing scrutiny from co-workers about going to CRNA school
👉 Choosing yourself so you can better show up for others

Nicole’s story is packed with wisdom, resilience, and practical tips for anyone pursuing CRNA school while balancing family life. She reminds us that sometimes we have to choose ourselves in order to show up well for others.

Connect with Nicole:

Follow her on IG here @_nicolekellogg_

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this episode helpful!

In this episode, I sat down with Angelica Wiggins, an SRNA/RRNA momma, who’s proving that CRNA school and parenting can coexist!

Angelica took time during her break to chat with me about her inspiring journey from pre-med to CRNA student, how she balances school and family life, and her best tips for success.

In This Episode, We Cover:
✅ Angelica’s journey from pre-med to CRNA student
✅ Her top study strategies and how she prepared for the SEE
✅ How many schools she applied to and why she chose hers
✅ Managing CRNA school while raising kids
✅ Why she chose to have babies before school
✅ Transitioning from ICU nurse to SRNA life
✅ Working during CRNA school – is it possible?
✅ Handling mom guilt and setting non-negotiables as a parent
✅ Marriage advice for juggling two busy schedules
✅ Financial planning as a wife and mom in CRNA school
✅ Her biggest struggles and words of wisdom for other parents pursuing CRNA

Angelica proves that being a parent shouldn’t hold you back from CRNA school—it can be the very reason you pursue your dreams! f you're wondering “Can I really do this?”—this episode is for you! Angelica's story is proof that with determination, support, and the right mindset, you can achieve your dreams while being an amazing parent.

🎧 Tune in now and get inspired!

Follow Angelica on IG @angelicathesrna

Welcome back to the podcast! I’m thrilled to be here with you again after an unexpected hiatus. Life happens, and sometimes we need to pause, breathe, and reset—and that’s okay.

In today’s episode, I’m tackling one of the most frequently asked questions: “I got into CRNA school—now what?”

We’ll dive deep into:

• The 5 most common struggles SRNAs face in their first semester.
• The journey of entering CRNA school, addressing common feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndrome.
• The importance of self-acceptance and the need to manage expectations as one transitions into this new phase of life.
• How to prepare yourself mentally, emotionally, and practically for CRNA school.
• Why managing your mindset is more important than trying to “do it all” before starting.

Plus, I’ll share actionable strategies to:

• Tackle overwhelm, anxiety, fear, perfectionism, and comparison.
• Build your self-concept and resilience as you transition into CRNA school.
• Shift out of imposter syndrome and embrace your worth as a future CRNA.

This episode is packed with insights, tools, and encouragement to help you feel confident and ready for this next chapter.

Whether you’re newly accepted or already in CRNA school, you don’t want to miss this one!

Resources Mentioned:

• Join The Mindful SRNA/RRNA Coaching Program
• FREE Webinar: How to Feel Confident & Competent in CRNA School Clinicals
• Podcast: How to Elevate your CRNA School Applications

Connect with Me:

• Instagram: @amandakaycrna
• Website: www.amandakaycrna.com
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@amandakcrna

This episode was a blast & you will have so many takeaways no matter where you're at in your CRNA journey.

We explored the path to & through CRNA school with our special guest, Victoria Leigh Adamson CRNA. From dealing with rejections to succeeding in CRNA school, Victoria shares invaluable insights that are sure to inspire and guide current and prospective SRNAs. Whether you're just starting your journey or are navigating the complexities of CRNA school, this episode offers practical advice and motivational stories to help you thrive in the demanding world of nurse anesthesia.

Here's what we covered:

• Victoria's path to CRNA School, How she navigated a CRNA School rejection and Her advice on applications
• We answered the question: Do you have to have CV-ICU experience?
• How she handled the beginning of CRNA school & what should you do before you start CRNA school.
• What she did when s**t got real in CRNA school: "What did I get myself into? What did I sign up for? How do I control my emotions or headspace? Am i going to be able to do this? Will I make it? Am I worthy enough to actually be here? Were they wrong to accept me?"
• How to deal with the fear of failure and being an "average" student
• Why she joined and how she utilized my SRNA/RRNA coaching program. Why coaching and mentoring is important for this journey.
• Tips on taking the SEE & NCE (even if you've had to retake it many times)
• **Special announcement
• What is life like after CRNA school? She gives tips on licensing and starting your job when you've been out of the OR for 6 months
• How she financed CRNA School
• What she loves about being a CRNA vs an ICU Nurse

This episode is truly a gem. Tune in to learn how to transform challenges into stepping stones of getting into and succeeding in CRNA school!

Links mentioned in the episode:

**NEW & ELEVATED Boards & Beyond Program to prep you for life after CRNA school and also how to thrive while studying for the SEE & NCE

*Book a call with Victoria here for your 30min session to create an individualized plan for you and get the support you need to thrive in your journey! Just $30!

SRNA/RRNA Elite Coaching Program if you've been accepted into CRNA school or you're in CRNA School currently. This is the program Victoria was in!

If you're an RN looking to start applying to CRNA school in the next 6mos-1year, check out this: CRNA Roadmap program

Tune into this transformative episode of The Mindful SRNA where we delve deep into the financial world tailored specifically to align with the unique needs and challenges faced by aspiring CRNAs & CRNAs.

I sit down with Brett Fellows, Certified Financial Planner® and the visionary behind Oak Park Capital, who has dedicated his career to helping CRNAs achieve financial independence.Brett brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in cash flow planning, investment management, tax strategies, and estate planning.

Whether you're navigating the complexities of funding CRNA school, managing your new CRNA income, or just have no idea where to start with your finances, Brett’s insights will help you thrive.

🌟 Highlights of the episode include:

• Why Brett specializes in working with CRNAs and how this focus benefits you.
• Practical financial advice for nurses considering CRNA school.
• An innovative take on budgeting with the 50/30/20 Mindset (He actually dislikes budgets.)
• Understanding the impact of debt and how to manage it without fear.
• How we should actually behave around money
• What should I spend my money on after school? Should I buy the fancy car? Take the trip? You'll see a real live example of what it's like to work with Brett
• His take on the "magic" number to save for CRNA school
• A discssion on student loans and investment strategies

You're going to want to take notes and take charge of your financial journey after this!

Brett also shares his unique perspective on how money is not a science but actually a behavior and a good ol reminder to forgive yourself and offer yourself grace around money. Brett believes you don’t have to be a money expert to make wise financial decisions; it's just about aligning your desires.

Listen now to transform your financial mindset witha simply way to approach your finances and take control of your CRNA future.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

Website: https://oakcapitaladvisor.com

Subscribe to his podcast here

Instagram @moneyrxforcrnas

Subscribe to his YouTube page here

Book a Complimentary Call with Brett

Subscribe to his Newsletter for tons of amazing info!

Link to the episode I did on his podcast

Welcome to the latest episode where I delve deep into a pressing question for aspiring CRNAs when they feel stuck, hopeless, or just plain frustrated with the CRNA application process. And that question is: "When should I stop applying to CRNA school & quit on my CRNA dreams?" If you've ever wondered this, then this episode is for you.

I will explore the emotional rollercoaster of repeated rejections, the impact of social media on our self-esteem, and the tough decision of when to call it quits—or push forward. Join me as I offer actionable advice and empower you with strategies to maintain your self-worth and motivation throughout this challenging journey.

Whether you're questioning your path or looking for a sign to keep going, this episode provides the support and insights you need to make informed decisions.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

FREE Webinar How to Make CRNA Applications Not Suck: https://amanda-kay.ck.page/3cfb9941f0

FREE CRNA Roadmap Workbook: https://amanda-kay.ck.page/44194fb32d

CRNA Roadmap Program: https://amanda-kay.ck.page/44194fb32d

Dive into this enlightening episode where I discuss a fresh new approach to your CRNA school applications.

Learn how to transform the process from a daunting task into an empowering journey of strategy. Forget the traditional approach of questioning your worthiness and instead embark on a business-minded adventure to showcase the unique brand that is you.

In this episode you'll:

• Discover an array of actionable insights for crafting compelling resumes and personal statements and acing your CRNA school interview.
• Explore how to leverage your nursing experience, personality, and unique strengths, viewing your application as a cohesive marketing package.
• Uncover the significance of branding and how to align your application with the needs and values of CRNA schools, ensuring you present yourself as an indispensable asset to the anesthesia community.

Whether you're seeking to refine your application or looking for motivational guidance to keep pushing towards your CRNA dreams, this episode offers the tools, encouragement, and expert advice needed to take control of your CRNA school application journey with confidence and creativity.

Tune in to transform your application anxiety into a strategic, fun, and ultimately successful campaign for your future in anesthesia.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

My Website: www.amandakaycrna.com

Your Complete Roadmap to CRNA School: https://the-mindful-srna.teachable.com/p/getting-you-into-crna-school

THE Interview Bundle (also included in the roadmap program above): https://the-mindful-srna.teachable.com/p/the-ultimate-crna-school-interview-prep-bundle

Mock Interviews, CV/Resume & Personal Statement Reviews: https://the-mindful-srna.teachable.com/p/srna-aspiring-crna-mentorship-sessions

FREE Roadmap to CRNA School Workbook: https://amanda-kay.ck.page/44194fb32d

Dive into my tried & tested approach to CRNA School applications so you can start or re-start your journey to CRNA with confidence!

I will unveil my 4 step-process which will help guide you through the challenges and triumphs of CRNA applications. From making a decisive commitment to your dreams, to crafting a foolproof plan, taking action, and then refining your approach based on feedback, we cover it all.

Plus, you'll discover the common pitfalls at each step of the application process and arm yourself with strategies to conquer self-doubt, manage emotions, and navigate setbacks with resilience and determination.

Whether you're just beginning your CRNA journey or seeking to reignite your passion, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical strategies to propel you forward.

Tune in now as I lay down the groundwork for success, demystify the application process, and set you on a path TODAY to achieving your dreams of becoming a CRNA.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:

• FREE CRNA Roadmap PDF: https://amanda-kay.ck.page/44194fb32d
• FREE Webinar on "How to Make CRNA Applications NOT Suck:" https://amanda-kay.ck.page/3cfb9941f0
• CRNA Roadmap Program: https://the-mindful-srna.teachable.com/p/getting-you-into-crna-school
• My Website: https://www.amandakaycrna.com