In this episode of The Mindful SRNA/RRNA Podcast, I sit down with Amber CRNA for one of the most honest, human conversations we've ever had about the CRNA journey—and what happens when life doesn't wait for your plans.

We talk about the deep connection CRNAs share, the truth that everyone has a story, and how Amber's path to nurse anesthesia wasn't linear: retaking classes, applying to schools, preparing for CRNA school after being out of school for 13 years, and learning how to trust her "why" even when the road got hard.

Just as CRNA school was beginning, Amber's family was hit with a devastating diagnoses. She opens up about how she worked with her program, handled the chaos of school, and what truly carried her through when everything felt overwhelming.

This episode is about more than getting through CRNA school—it's about who you become when life happens, how illness can reshape your purpose, and why the quality of your life is determined by the stories you tell yourself.

Plus we discuss her career pivot and how to avoid the mistakes she made when she made the decision to work from home and step away from anesthesia for a bit.

We talk about:
• How Amber knew she wanted to be a CRNA
• Being out of school for over a decade before starting anesthesia training
• What really got her through the hardest moments
• Why your "why" matters more than your circumstances
• How she chose her first job and her advice for passing the NCE
• Was CRNA school worth it?
• Using CRNA as a stepping stone and making a career pivot
• How she transitioned out of clinical anesthesia into entrepreneurship
• Taking a CRNA gap year: what she'd do differently
• The CRNA skills that transfer into business—and the mindset of always figuring it out

⚠️ Trigger Warning: We discuss miscarriage around the 27:00 mark, as well as becoming a mother later in life.

If you're in CRNA school, thinking about applying, facing personal challenges, or wondering what's possible after graduation—this conversation will remind you: you will be okay when life happens.

Because your journey doesn't have to look like anyone else's to be meaningful.

CONNECT WITH AMBER:

IG @amber_muhlhan

Her Functional Medicine Website: Restore My Vitality

FB Page

It's a new year—and we're starting with a truth every CRNA needs to hear: you don't have to have it all figured out.

In this return-to-the-podcast episode, Amanda Kay dives into a question flooding her DMs:
"Did I get enough regional experience?"
"What if I lose my skills?"
"What job should I take so I don't fall behind?"

But the real conversation isn't just about nerve blocks—it's about what they represent: confidence, competence, ego, fear, and the pressure to prove yourself.

This episode explores:

• What to do if you didn't get as much regional or OB experience as you wanted

• How to relearn skills without shame or panic

• Why "figuring it out" is not a flaw—but a lifelong feature of growth

• Muscle memory, humility, and the power of curiosity over ego

• Navigating job decisions, confidence gaps, and systemic limitations

• Practical ways to grow your skills—even if your environment doesn't prioritize them

Amanda also shares deeply personal stories—from relearning epidurals and central lines to a powerful reflection from her CRNA graduation speech and mission work in Kenya—reminding you that you were trained for more than you think.

Whether you're in CRNA school, a new grad, or years into practice, this episode is an invitation to release perfection, embrace growth, and trust yourself again.

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LINKS MENTIONED:

Muscle memory article: https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-muscle-memory

Regional anesthesia conferences:

www.aana.com

https://www.twinoaksanesthesia.com

https://www.twinoaksanesthesia.com/courses

https://mtsa.edu/events/

POST CRNA School Course: https://mtsa.edu/academics/regionalfoundations/

For Coaching & Resources: www.amandakaycrna.com

***Subscribe so you don't miss upcoming episodes—new interviews and solo episodes dropping twice a month.

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

Want more CRNA lifestyle? Follow @crna_wellness

📲 Want coaching or support? Visit www.amandakaycrna.com

💻 Resources & Links Mentioned:

• CRNA Roadmap Program for RNs

• The Ultimate Interview Prep Bundle for CRNA School Interviews

• Podcast Episode: Marriage, Finances & CRNA School

• LIVE: Are you Abdicating your Life? The Good, The Bad, The Ugly of my CRNA School Journey

• GRE & CCRN Resources:
  • GRE: Magoosh, GRE Mat & Kaplan
  • CCRN: Laura Gasparis, Barron's CCRN Exam, Nicole Kupchik

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

The CRNA Chase Blog

Society of Future Nurse Anesthetists Website

FB Page: Your Future CRNA Community

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 on IG.

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

Kates IG: https://www.instagram.com/kate_srna/ @kate_srna

#CRNA #MarriageGoals #CRNASchool #Relationships #SRNA #WorkLifeBalance #FutureCRNA #NurseAnesthesia #LoveAndSacrifice

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

Connect with KTE services on Instagram @ktemedicaljobs

📚Check out my Boards & Beyonds program 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!

🎧 Tune in now & share this with a fellow SRNA or CRNA who's job hunting!

💡 CRNA School Didn't Go as Planned? You're Not Alone.

In this episode of The Mindful SRNA/RRNA Podcast, we're diving into a tough but necessary conversation—what happens when CRNA school doesn't work out? Whether you had to take a leave of absence, withdrew, or were dismissed, I want you to know this: Your journey isn't over.

🔹 The fear of failing or being found out as an "imposter" is real.
🔹 Social media paints an unrealistic picture of success, but the truth is, struggles happen.
🔹 This episode is here to help you remove the shame, navigate next steps, and find hope.

I'll cover:
✅ Why this happens and the three main circumstances students face
✅ What you can do to process, pivot, and keep moving forward
✅ How to handle difficult conversations with faculty and plan your next steps
✅ The importance of knowing your program's policies
✅ Mindset shifts that will help you rebuild confidence and clarity

💬 Need support? You're not alone. Feel free to reach out—I'm here to help.
📩 Email me: amandakayonline@gmail.com

👉 If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And don't forget to subscribe for more coaching on thriving in CRNA school and beyond!

#CRNASchool #CRNACoaching #MindsetMatters #CRNAJourney #NurseAnesthesia

Here's the link to my coaching program: The Mindful SRNA/RRNA Coaching

Link to the episode I mentioned: How to Prepare for CRNA School