In this episode, I sit down with Kiki CRNA from The CRNA Chase 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 CRNA and explore mentorship opportunities at:

📌 Follow Kiki CRNA 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