Explore every episode of the podcast Life After Nursing School
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nurses Can Do Hard Things: Why Challenging Yourself Changes Everything | 27 Oct 2026 | 00:30:41 | |
What if the things you're avoiding because they're hard are actually the things that could change your life? Nursing school is hard. The NCLEX is hard. Your first year as a nurse? REALLY hard. But here's what I've learned: Confidence isn't something you need before doing hard things. Sometimes, confidence is what you earn by doing them. In this solo episode of Life After Nursing School, we're exploring the science behind doing hard things and how challenging ourselves can build confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset. I'm also sharing personal stories from running marathons, building LuminaRN, and almost turning down a speaking opportunity I'd literally put on my vision board. 😂 ✨ In This Episode:
Whether you're navigating nursing school, starting your nursing career, or pursuing a dream that feels out of reach, this episode is your reminder that you're capable of more than you think. 🎧 Hit play and remember: You CAN do hard things! Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com LuminaRN: https://www.joinluminarn.com/ ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| Travel Nursing Unfiltered: Contracts, Recruiters & the Truth About Travel Nursing with Lindsey Lawson | 14 Oct 2026 | 00:56:58 | |
What really happens behind the scenes of travel nursing and what do travel nurses need to know before signing their next contract? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with Lindsey Lawson, RN, longtime travel nurse, former travel nurse recruiter, author, and content creator, for an unfiltered conversation about the travel nursing industry. Lindsey’s nursing career has been anything but traditional. She started as an LPN, worked in corrections, urgent care, emergency nursing and more before taking her first travel nursing assignment in January 2020, just weeks before COVID changed healthcare forever. After working pandemic crisis contracts, including one paying more than $10,000 per week, Lindsey eventually stepped behind the scenes and became a travel nurse recruiter herself. Now, she’s using what she learned on both sides of the industry to help travel nurses make smarter, more informed career decisions. In this episode, we talk about:
Whether you’re considering your first travel nursing assignment, already working as a travel nurse, or simply curious about what happens on the recruiter side of the industry, this episode gives you a candid look at travel nursing from someone who has lived it from both sides. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com LuminaRN: https://www.joinluminarn.com/ Connect with Today’s Guest: Lindsey Lawson, RN Instagram: @lindsey_leisures Tiktok: @lindsey_leisures Email: lindseysleisures01@gmail.com Website: lindseysleisures.net ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| How to Quantum Leap Your Nursing Career: 10 Rules I Wish I Knew Sooner | 06 Oct 2026 | 00:38:18 | |
What if the biggest changes in your nursing career don't come from working harder... but from making a few really intentional decisions? After 14 years in nursing, I've worked at the bedside, in leadership, recruiting, education, career coaching, and entrepreneurship. Looking back, there are certain lessons that completely changed the trajectory of my career. I'm calling them my 10 cardinal rules for quantum leaping your professional life. And no, I'm not telling you to write your dream job on a piece of paper and put it under your pillow. 😂 A “quantum leap” can look sudden from the outside, but most of the time, there are years of learning, networking, failing, experimenting, and planting seeds behind it. In this episode, we're talking about how to become more intentional about those seeds. In this episode:
I also share one of the most pivotal moments of my own career: being offered a hospital nurse recruiter position I didn't want, and why saying yes ultimately changed the entire trajectory of my professional life. Because your dream nursing career doesn't have to look traditional. Maybe your quantum leap is becoming a CRNA. Maybe it's leaving bedside nursing. Starting a business. Becoming an educator. Making more money while working less. Or simply finding a nursing job that allows you to have a life you actually enjoy outside of work. You don't have to build your career around what you think you're supposed to do. You can build it around the life you actually want. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com LuminaRN: https://www.joinluminarn.com/ ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| How to Protect Your Nursing License: Documentation, Malpractice & Legal Advice with Legal Nurse Allen | 29 Sep 2026 | 01:03:35 | |
What does it actually take to protect your nursing license and could the way you document put you at risk? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with Legal Nurse Allen (Bianca Allen), RN, a legal nurse consultant, expert witness, nursing educator, and registered nurse with 16 years of experience. Bianca takes us behind the scenes of the legal side of nursing and shares what she has learned from reviewing medical records, working alongside attorneys, serving as an expert witness, and even being deposed about her own nursing documentation. We’re breaking down practical ways nurses can protect themselves, their practice, and their nursing license, without becoming afraid to do their jobs. In this episode, we talk about:
Whether you’re a nursing student, new grad nurse, or experienced RN, this episode is packed with practical insight to help you document more intentionally, protect your nursing license, and practice with greater confidence. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com LuminaRN: https://www.joinluminarn.com/ Connect w Today’s Guest: Bianca Allen MS, BSN, NEA-BC, CV-BC, MEDSURG-BC Instagram: @Legalnurseallen Tiktok: @legalnurseallen Linkedin: Legal Nurse Bianca Allen Website: https://linktr.ee/legalnurseallen.com ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| The PRN Princess: Reva Lewis on Travel Nursing, Dating & Building a Life You Love | 23 Sep 2026 | 01:02:10 | |
In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with Reva Lewis, a NICU nurse with over 15 years of experience, longtime travel nurse, content creator, and self-proclaimed PRN Princess. Reva shares how an unexpected path into nursing eventually led her to the NICU, travel nursing, and a career built around flexibility, freedom, and experiencing life outside of work. In this episode, we talk about:
Whether you're considering travel nursing, per diem nursing, or simply looking for more freedom in your nursing career, Reva's story is a refreshing reminder that there is no one "right" path after nursing school. Sometimes the best career is the one that allows you to build a life you actually love. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com Connect with Today’s Guest: Reva Lewis Instagram: @revamoments Tiktok: @revamoments ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| From Nurse to Entrepreneur: How Cat Golden Built, Sold & Reclaimed Nurses Inspire Nurses | 15 Sep 2026 | 00:51:39 | |
What happens when a simple idea becomes a nationally recognized nursing brand—and then somehow finds its way back to you after you sell it? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with Cat Golden, nurse turned entrepreneur and founder of Nurses Inspire Nurses and 6th Ave Group. Cat shares how Nurses Inspire Nurses started with a few T-shirts and a desire to create genuine community for nurses, then grew into a successful business she eventually sold in 2024. She also opens up about burnout, reinvention, building 6th Ave Group, and the unexpected opportunity to reclaim Nurses Inspire Nurses and lead its next chapter. In this episode, we discuss:
If you've ever wondered what's possible beyond a traditional nursing career, Cat's story is proof that your nursing degree can be the starting point for something much bigger. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com Connect with Today’s Guest: Cat Golden Instagram: @catlgolden @nursesinspirenurses @6thavegroup Nurses Inspire Nurses: www.nursesinspirenurses.com *20% off at NursesInspireNurses.com with code CAROLINEPOD* 6th Ave Group: www.6thavegroup.com ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| Nursing Unions Explained: The Truth About Safe Staffing, Strikes & Nurse Advocacy with Nurse Erica | 08 Sep 2026 | 01:03:46 | |
Are nursing unions really just about higher pay… or is there much more to the story? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with Nurse Erica - registered nurse, advocate, activist, independent reporter, and host of the Nurses Uncorked Podcast - to separate fact from fiction when it comes to nursing unions, safe staffing, and nurse advocacy. With more than 20 years of nursing experience and a platform reaching over 1.3 million nurses, Nurse Erica explains how unions work, why nurses choose to unionize, and the biggest myths surrounding union hospitals. She also shares why advocating for nurses ultimately means advocating for safer patient care. Together, they discuss the current Brigham and Women's Hospital nursing strike, what happens before nurses vote to strike, and how strikes are planned with patient safety in mind. They also explore workplace culture, nurse leadership, burnout, and why every nurse (union or non-union) has a voice.
Whether you're a nursing student, new graduate, or experienced nurse, this episode will help you better understand one of the most important conversations happening in healthcare today. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com Connect with Today's Guest: Nurse Erica Instagram: @The.Nurse.Erica Tiktok: @The.Nurse.Erica Facebook: @TheNurseErica Youtube: @TheNurseErica Website: www.nurseerica.com ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| Nursing Intuition & Learning to Trust Your Gut as a Nurse with Jennifer Johnson BScN, RN | 01 Sep 2026 | 01:04:00 | |
Have you ever had a patient who just didn't seem right, even though their vital signs looked normal? That feeling is often called nursing intuition, and in this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with emergency nurse, educator, speaker, and author Jennifer Johnson to explore what it really is. Drawing from more than 18 years of emergency nursing experience and insights from her book Nursing Intuition, Jennifer explains how intuition develops, how it differs from clinical judgment, and why it's an essential part of safe, evidence-based nursing practice.
Whether you're a nursing student, new graduate, or experienced nurse, this conversation will help you better understand the powerful connection between clinical knowledge, experience, and the intuition that helps nurses provide exceptional patient care. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com Connect with todays guest, Jennifer Johnson Instagram: @ernurse.jenn Tiktok: @ernurse.jenn LinkedIn: Jennifer Johnson BScN RN ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| Can New Grad Nurses Work in the NICU? Career Advice from a Neonatal Nurse | 25 Aug 2026 | 01:07:56 | |
Have you ever wondered what it's really like to work as a NICU nurse or whether new graduate nurses can start their careers in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with Lisa Houston, MSN, RNC-NIC, C-ELBW, a neonatal nurse, nurse educator, and Business Development Manager at the Vermont Oxford Network (VON). With more than 20 years of NICU experience, Lisa shares how one unexpected opportunity changed the course of her nursing career and why she still loves caring for the tiniest patients. Together, they discuss what it's really like to work in the NICU, the skills and qualities that help nurses succeed in neonatal nursing, and practical advice for nursing students and new graduates interested in this highly specialized field.
Whether you're exploring nursing specialties, preparing for your first nursing job, or dreaming of becoming a neonatal nurse, this episode is full of practical advice, encouragement, and career insights you won't want to miss. 🎧 Be sure to subscribe for weekly conversations designed to help you confidently navigate life after nursing school. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com Connect with Our Guest: Lisa Houston Instagram: @nicueducator.lisa Tiktok: @nicueducator.lisa Website: www.niculearningnest.com ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| How One ER Nurse Used Humor to Build an Extraordinary Nursing Career | Joscel James | 18 Aug 2026 | 01:10:25 | |
In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with ER nurse, content creator, speaker, and entrepreneur Joscel James to discuss how embracing authenticity—and not taking yourself too seriously—can open doors you never imagined. Known for his hilarious healthcare videos and relatable nursing content, Joscel shares the story behind his unconventional career journey, from working in the emergency department to becoming one of nursing's most recognizable creators. Along the way, he opens up about burnout, personal growth, social media, and the importance of building a career that aligns with your values instead of other people's expectations. In this episode, we discuss:
Whether you're a nursing student, new graduate, or experienced nurse, this conversation is a reminder that your greatest strengths may be the very things that make you different. If you've ever questioned whether there's room to be yourself in nursing, this episode will inspire you to embrace your unique gifts and create a career that truly reflects who you are. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com Connect with Our Guest: Joscel James Instagram: @josceljames TikTok: @josceljames Website: Joscel StanStore ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| How Nurse Coaching Can Transform Your Career (And Your Life) With Julia Joseph | 11 Aug 2026 | 01:12:01 | |
What if the biggest thing holding you back isn't your résumé or your experience - but the way you see yourself? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with ICU travel nurse and Professional Nurse Life Coach, Julia Joseph to explore how coaching can help nurses build confidence, navigate career transitions, prevent burnout, and create a life they truly love. Drawing from her unique background in critical care nursing and professional life coaching, Julia shares her philosophy of "coaching with a twist", an approach that goes beyond career advice to help nurses reconnect with their strengths, gain clarity, and move forward with confidence. Rather than telling clients what to do, Julia creates a supportive, low-pressure environment where they can discover their own answers and recognize the potential that's been there all along. In this episode, we discuss:
Whether you're a nursing student, a new graduate, or an experienced nurse searching for your next step, this conversation will leave you feeling encouraged, empowered, and excited about what's possible in your nursing career. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com Connect with Our Guest: Julia Joseph Instagram: @juliadelea Coaching Website: https://juliajosephconsulting.com/jj Free Virtual Nurse’s Station Resource: Join Here! ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| The Productivity Trap: Why Slowing Down Might Be the Best Career Move You'll Ever Make | 04 Aug 2026 | 00:24:13 | |
Have you ever felt like you needed to keep doing more, achieving more, and checking off one more task just to feel worthy? In this solo episode, Caroline shares the unexpected story behind her three-month podcast pause - and why it became one of the most transformative seasons of her life. As nurses, we're often conditioned to tie our worth to productivity. But what happens when your intuition tells you it's time to slow down? Caroline opens up about the guilt of stepping back, the pressure of constantly achieving, and how learning to be present helped her gain clarity on the future of her career and business. In this episode, you'll learn:
Whether you're a nursing student, new graduate, or experienced nurse feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or uncertain about your next step, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the greatest breakthroughs happen when you stop forcing the path and start listening to yourself. ✨ If this episode resonates with you, be sure to subscribe and join us for Season 2 of Life After Nursing School, where we'll continue exploring career growth, confidence, and the many paths nursing can take you. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline Instagram: instagram.com/nursecoachcaroline TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nursecoachcaroline Website: www.nursecoachcaroline.com ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 60: Why I’m Pitching Myself to Nursing Schools (And Why It Scares Me) | 07 Apr 2026 | 00:17:08 | |
My business is evolving again… and this next step feels exciting, aligned, and honestly a little scary. In this episode of Life After Nursing School, I talk about why I’m starting to pitch my workshops to nursing schools and how my nursing career keeps changing in ways I never expected. We talk about: I also share how working as a clinical instructor helped me realize that education, career coaching, and helping new nurses navigate the job market might actually be part of my purpose. If you’re a nursing student, new grad nurse, or experienced nurse feeling called to do more, this episode will remind you that growth often feels uncomfortable, but that doesn’t mean you’re on the wrong path. ⬇️ Follow the show for weekly nursing career advice Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you! ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 59: Success in Nursing Isn’t What Nursing School Told You | 31 Mar 2026 | 00:28:02 | |
What does success really look like as a nurse? Is it working in the ICU, ER, or going back to school to become a nurse practitioner… or is that just what we’ve been told success should look like? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, we talk about the pressure nurses feel to chase high-stress specialties, advanced degrees, and job titles that sound impressive… even when they don’t lead to happiness or work-life balance. We’ll cover: If you’re a nursing student, new grad, or experienced nurse questioning your path, this episode will help you redefine success in nursing (on your terms). ⬇️ Follow the show for weekly nursing career advice Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you! ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 58: How to Start a Side Hustle as a Nurse | 24 Mar 2026 | 00:27:53 | |
Thinking about starting a side hustle as a nurse? We cover: Over the past few years, I’ve met so many nurses who started businesses, passion projects, or extra income streams without quitting their jobs. If you’ve ever felt like you want more freedom in your career but still want the stability of nursing, this episode will show you what’s possible. ⬇️ Follow the show for weekly nursing career advice Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you! ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 57: How One ER Nurse Turned a Bedside Problem Into a Business | 17 Mar 2026 | 00:34:31 | |
Every nurse knows the smells that come with patient care. One ER nurse decided to do something about it... and ended up building a business. In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with Jennifer, an ER nurse and the founder of StinkBalm, an odor-blocking stick designed for healthcare professionals. Jennifer shares how her experience with strong clinical odors led her to create a simple but innovative solution that is now used by healthcare workers across the country. What began as a small experiment eventually grew into a successful product-based business. In this episode, we discuss: • How Jennifer went from bedside nurse to nurse entrepreneur If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible beyond the bedside, or have an idea of your own, this episode will inspire you to think bigger about your nursing career. ⬇️ Follow the show for weekly nursing career advice Connect with StinkBalm team: Instagram: @StinkBalm Website: www.StinkBalmOdorBlocker.com *USE DISCOUNT CODE: “NCC20” for 20% of Nurse Gift Sets link here! Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your bedside life! ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 56: How to Quit Your Nursing Job Without Regret | 10 Mar 2026 | 00:21:44 | |
Thinking about quitting your nursing job? Before you hand in your notice, this episode walks you through how to leave strategically and professionally. In Part 2 of this series, we break down how to plan a nursing career pivot with clarity instead of emotion. You will learn: • How to define what you are running toward, not just what you are escaping If you are a nursing student, new grad nurse, or experienced RN considering a job change, this episode will help you make a confident, strategic decision about your next move. Because leaving well is just as important as choosing well. 💛 ⬇️ Follow the show for weekly nursing career advice Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you! ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 55: Burned Out or Just Outgrown? How to Know If It’s Time to Leave | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:21:21 | |
Are you experiencing nurse burnout or have you simply outgrown your nursing job? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline breaks down the difference between burnout and career growth. Learn the true signs of nurse burnout, including micro moral injuries, chronic exhaustion, lack of control, and emotional detachment. You’ll also discover what it feels like to outgrow a nursing role, why you should never quit on a losing day, and how to reflect before making a career pivot. If you’re a nursing student, new grad nurse, or experienced RN feeling stuck, exhausted, or restless, this episode will help you gain clarity and make your next move strategically. Before you update your resume or resign, listen to this. 💛 Journal Prompts Mentioned in the Episode:
Lets Connect! ⬇️ Follow the show for weekly nursing career advice Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you! ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 54: Behind the Scenes of My Nurse Coaching Business: Year 2 Recap and Year 3 Plans | 24 Feb 2026 | 00:46:50 | |
In this episode of Life After Nursing School, I’m sharing a real and honest look at Year 2 of building my nurse coaching business and my vision for Year 3 as a nurse entrepreneur. I talk about what it actually looks like to run an online business as a nurse, including: • Doubling revenue but reinvesting everything back into the business I also share what I want Year 3 to look like, including more in person networking, workshops for nursing students, and staying focused on helping new grad nurses land their first job. If you are thinking about starting a business as a nurse, building a side hustle, or just curious what entrepreneurship really looks like behind the scenes, this episode is for you. Entrepreneurship has stretched me in ways nursing never did but nursing gave me the resilience to handle it ⬇️ Follow the show for weekly nursing career advice Want to connect about workshop opportunities for nursing students? ⬇️ email: info.nursecoachcaroline@gmail.com Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you! ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 53: A Simple Money System for Nurses with April Waddell | 17 Feb 2026 | 00:53:16 | |
Caroline talks with April Waddell, former ICU nurse and founder of NurseMoneyDate, about financial literacy for nurses and how to build wealth without burnout. If budgeting, debt, investing, or retirement planning feels overwhelming, this episode gives you a simple starting point. April shares a practical system that helps nurses:
Other topics discussed:
When you understand your finances, you can reduce overtime, avoid burnout, and make career decisions based on your goals, not just your paycheck. Whether you are a nursing student, new grad nurse, or experienced nurse planning your next move, this conversation will help you feel more confident and in control of your money. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Guest Information and Resources mentioned in this episode: Book recommended by April Waddell: Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel Connect with April:
Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 52: Career Seasons, Resumes, and Job Hopping with Indeed’s Matt Berndt | 10 Feb 2026 | 00:55:57 | |
In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline chats with Matt Berndt, Head of the Job Search Academy at Indeed, about what nurses need to know to navigate today’s job market with confidence. Matt shares practical insights on how resumes are changing in a digital world, what hiring teams really look for in the first few seconds, and why job hopping isn’t always a bad thing. They also break down interview preparation, career pivots, and how to tell your story in a way that actually resonates. With nearly 30 years of career strategy experience and a personal connection to nursing as the father of an oncology nurse, Matt offers a powerful framework for understanding career seasons and finding purpose in every role. Perfect for nursing students, new grads, and nurses planning their next move. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Indeed’s Job Search Academy: go.indeed.com/jobsearchacademy Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 51: 10 Nursing Career Hacks That Actually Make Bedside Life Better | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:34:57 | |
In this episode of the Life After Nursing School Podcast, Nurse Coach Caroline shares 10 bedside nursing hacks that make shifts easier, reduce burnout, and help nurses protect their time and energy. These practical nursing career tips cover everything from picking up shifts strategically and charting smarter, to finding burnout-proof PRN jobs, networking on the unit, and using workplace benefits like education money and EAP. This is real, big-sister nurse advice you won’t learn in nursing school. Whether you’re a new grad nurse or an experienced bedside nurse, these nursing hacks can help you work smarter, leave on time, and build a more sustainable nursing career. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 50: Resume & Cover Letter Mistakes That Are Costing Nurses Interviews | 27 Jan 2026 | 00:14:40 | |
Not getting interviews despite applying to nursing jobs? Your resume and cover letter may be the problem. In this episode of the Life After Nursing School podcast, we break down the most common resume and cover letter mistakes nurses make — mistakes that affect both new graduate nurses and experienced nurses. Drawing from real experience in hospital recruiting and nurse leadership, this episode explains why generic cover letters get overlooked, how unclear resumes cost interviews, and what hiring teams actually look for. If you’re a nursing student, new grad nurse, or experienced nurse feeling stuck in the job search, this episode will help you understand how to create clear, strategic, and human application documents that open doors. Resources mentioned, including Application Advantage, are linked in the show notes. Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate -Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Episode Mentioned Resources:
Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 49: New Grad Nurse Interviews: Why First Impressions Matter More Than You Think | 20 Jan 2026 | 00:17:21 | |
First impressions in nursing interviews matter more than most candidates realize and they form fast. In this episode of Life After Nursing School, we break down what hiring teams are actually noticing in the first few seconds of an interview, often before you even answer the first question. Drawing from over a decade of experience on new grad nurse hiring teams, we explore why first impressions are so “sticky,” how they influence interview decisions, and how they can either work for you or against you throughout the entire interview process. You’ll learn how arrival time, body language, professionalism, warmth, confidence, and energy shape hiring decisions sometimes within the first 60–90 seconds. This episode is especially helpful for new graduate nurses, nursing students preparing for interviews, and nurses navigating career transitions. We talk about how to show up prepared, lead with warmth, and project confidence — even when you’re nervous — so hiring teams stay engaged and open to your answers. If you’re preparing for a nursing interview, residency program, shadow experience, or networking opportunity, this episode will help you show up intentional, confident, and grounded from the moment you walk into the room. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Youtube → Nurse Coach Caroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Application Advantage Resume and Cover Letter Course → Here Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 48: New Nurse Survival Guide: Navigating Your First 90 Days On The Job | 13 Jan 2026 | 00:23:35 | |
In Episode 48 of Life After Nursing School, I’m sharing a new nurse survival guide to help you navigate your first 90 days on the job—especially if you’re in orientation, starting your first nursing role, or wondering, “Why does this feel so hard… and is it supposed to?” We break down why the first 90 days as a new nurse feel so intense, what’s happening behind the scenes during new employee orientation and nursing orientation, and how confidence is actually built through repetition—not perfection. I walk you through the three phases most new nurses experience: Days 1–30 (survival mode), Days 31–60 (the confidence dip), and Days 61–90 (early competence and finding your footing). You’ll also learn practical mindset shifts to help with new nurse anxiety, imposter syndrome, and the pressure to compare yourself to other new grads—plus tips on asking questions, staying safe, getting support, and recognizing the difference between normal discomfort and an unsafe work environment. If you’re a new grad nurse trying to survive orientation and become a confident bedside nurse, this episode will remind you: you’re not failing—you’re becoming. Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate -Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Other Life After Nursing School Podcast Episodes mentioned that may help during the first 90 days:
Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 47: How to Bring Main Character Energy into Your Nursing Career in 2026 | 06 Jan 2026 | 00:23:10 | |
In this episode of Life After Nursing School, we’re kicking off 2026 by talking about Main Character Energy for nurses—what it really means and how to bring it into every shift. If you’ve ever felt like a background character in your own nursing career, this episode is your invitation to shift from survival mode to intention. Main Character Energy isn’t about ego or perfection—it’s about self-respect, confidence, and ownership, even when you’re still learning. We cover how nurses—especially new nurses—can build confidence through preparation, ask questions without apologizing, protect their energy, and make career decisions intentionally instead of emotionally. You’ll also hear real-life examples that show how confidence is built through action, not before it. If 2026 is your year to show up differently in nursing, this episode is for you. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 46: How I Landed on My Word for 2026 As a Nurse Entrepreneur & Career Coach | 09 Dec 2025 | 00:19:39 | |
In this episode of the Life After Nursing School Podcast, we’re talking about one of my favorite end-of-year rituals: choosing a Word of the Year to guide your mindset, career decisions, and personal growth. Instead of relying on rigid New Year’s resolutions, I’m sharing how a single, intentional word has shaped my confidence, my nursing career, my business, and the way I move through life. We’ll reflect on what worked this year, what didn’t, and how to choose a word that supports where you’re headed in 2026—especially if you’re a new nurse navigating overwhelm, burnout, imposter syndrome, or big career transitions. I’m also walking you through the pivotal moments, spiritual insights (yes, we talk astrology!), and real-life examples that helped me land on my word for 2026. By the end of this conversation, you’ll feel inspired to choose a word that aligns with your goals, honors your energy, and helps you step into the most grounded, confident, and intentional version of yourself in the new year. Whether you're a nursing student, a new grad nurse, or a nurse exploring your next chapter, this episode will give you clarity, direction, and a fresh perspective on how to approach 2026 with purpose. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Please consider following and/or rating the show or leaving a review if you feel inspired by the show! ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 45: Everything I’d Do Differently Before Starting My Nursing Career | 02 Dec 2025 | 00:20:22 | |
Learn what I wish I had done before starting my first nursing job. From preparing early for the new grad nurse job search to building a standout resume, setting boundaries, preventing burnout, and staying open to opportunities—this episode is your roadmap to thriving as a new nurse Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Resource Mentioned in the Episode Application Advantage: New Grad Nurse Resume & Cover Letter Course Thank you for being here <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 44: Your 2026 New Nurse Reset: The Science + Courage Behind Doing Hard Things | 25 Nov 2025 | 00:19:37 | |
As we close out 2025 and step into a brand new year, this episode is your invitation to pause, reflect, and reset. Whether you’re a new nurse, a nursing student, or somewhere in the early stages of your nursing career, today’s conversation will help you understand why the things that feel uncomfortable are the very things that help you grow. In this episode, I break down the science behind trying new things including neuroplasticity, novelty, dopamine, confidence-building, and why your brain changes when you step outside your comfort zone. You’ll learn how doing something unfamiliar creates new neural pathways, boosts motivation, expands your window of tolerance, and increases your overall sense of wellbeing. If you’ve been feeling stuck, discouraged, or unsure of your next steps as a new grad nurse, this science-backed mindset shift is going to change everything. But this isn’t just theory, I also share my personal “year of firsts” and what happened when I stopped playing it safe. From starting this podcast, to traveling to Ireland and driving on the opposite side of the road, to running a marathon without a plan, investing in my business, taking on new teaching experiences, and even becoming a chicken owner… every one of these moments stretched me in ways I didn’t expect. And they taught me that growth is always happening, even when it feels messy. If you’re heading into 2026 hoping to build confidence, reduce new grad overwhelm, grow your nursing skills, or simply feel more alive again — this episode is for you. Let this be your permission to try new things, do the hard things, and celebrate every step of progress along the way. Tune in, reset your mindset, and let’s grow together. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Join Application Advantage - Resume and Cover Letter Course HERE Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 43: What a Healthcare Networking Event Taught Me About Connection, Confidence, and Saying Yes | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:22:15 | |
In this episode of The Life After Nursing School Podcast, host Caroline Danna, MSN, RN, shares her biggest takeaways from attending the Indeed Careers in Care networking event in New York City. What started as a few days in Times Square turned into a powerful reminder about connection, courage, and career growth. Caroline reflects on meeting online connections in real life, finding unexpected mentors, and learning why human connection is truly irreplaceable. You’ll hear how one panelist’s simple advice “you eat an elephant one bite at a time”, became a metaphor for navigating the overwhelm that comes with nursing, job searching, and entrepreneurship. Whether you’re a new grad nurse preparing to land your first job or a nursing student working toward graduation, this episode will inspire you to make meaningful connections, embrace fear, and say yes to opportunities that might just change your path. If you enjoy this episode, share it with a friend or classmate, and don’t forget to leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it helps more new nurses find the show! Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Free Resource Mentioned in the Episode List of Hiring Questions to Ask Hiring Team in an Interview Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 42: Debrief: The Book Every New Nurse Needs with Author Stephanee Beggs MSN, RN | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:56:52 | |
In this episode of the Life After Nursing School podcast, host Caroline Danna sits down with Stephanee Beggs, the nurse, educator, and entrepreneur behind RNExplained and author of the bestselling book Debrief. After reading Debrief cover to cover, Caroline knew she had to connect with Stephanee to dive deeper into the real, unfiltered side of nursing — the part that goes beyond exams and clinicals. Together they unpack the emotional highs and lows of life as a new nurse, the challenges of balancing bedside nursing with business, and how to navigate burnout, boundaries, and purpose in your nursing career. Stephanee shares her creative process behind writing Debrief, the meaning of her 555 tattoo, and how she stays grounded while building a multimillion-view platform that helps thousands of nursing students study smarter and feel less alone. If you’re a nursing student, new grad nurse, or nurse entrepreneur seeking inspiration and clarity about your path, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, understood, and ready to “debrief” your own journey. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE Connect with Today’s Guest: Instagram: Stephaneebeggs TikTok: Stephbegg RNExplained Website: https://rnexplained.com/ Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 41: Healing Nurse Burnout: How to Reconnect With Yourself and Find Joy Again with Holistic Nurse Coach Kelly Dubowski | 04 Nov 2025 | 00:45:25 | |
What if nurse burnout wasn’t the end of your story—but the beginning of your healing? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, host Caroline Danna sits down with Kelly Dubowski, Holistic Nurse Coach and founder of Hope With Kelly and Nurturing the Nurse. After experiencing the exhaustion and emotional toll of burnout herself, Kelly transitioned from bedside nursing to holistic nurse coaching, where she now helps nurses regulate their nervous systems, set boundaries, and rediscover purpose in both work and life. Caroline and Kelly dive into what it really takes to move through burnout, the connection between trauma and nursing stress, and how to create self-care routines that actually serve you. Kelly also shares her courageous journey from Boston to San Diego, how a chance encounter led her to addiction nursing, and the life-changing lessons she’s learned along the way. If you’re a nursing student, new grad, or experienced nurse feeling overwhelmed or disconnected from your “why,” this episode will leave you grounded, hopeful, and ready to take your next step toward balance. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE Connect with Today’s Podcast Guest: Instagram → @hopewithkelly TikTok → @nurturingthenurse Website → www.hopewithkelly.com & www.nurturingthenurse.com Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 40: The Only Way Forward Is Through — Lessons on Discipline, Fitness & Faith with Nurse Gaige Matthews | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:50:13 | |
When life as a nurse feels heavy and burnout starts to blur your sense of purpose, sometimes the only way forward… is through. In this inspiring conversation, host Caroline Danna, MSN, RN sits down with Gaige Matthews, former ER nurse and founder of Beyond Bedside Fitness, to unpack what it really takes to rebuild your confidence, discipline, and faith when you’re running on empty. Gaige has helped over 800 nurses transform their health and mindset through her nurse-specific coaching program that blends fitness, nutrition, and faith-based encouragement. Together, Caroline and Gaige dive deep into:
If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of exhaustion, guilt, and self-neglect, this episode is your reminder that you are not alone—and that you have the power to rebuild from the inside out. ✨ Tune in to learn how to move through burnout, strengthen your faith, and reclaim your confidence—one intentional choice at a time. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE Episode Mentioned Resources: Connect with Guest: Gaige Matthews Instagram → @gaigematthews_ TikTok → @gaigematthews_ Website → Gaige’s Website Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 39: How to Romanticize Self-Care as a Nurse (and Actually Enjoy Your Rest Days) | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:22:28 | |
Feeling like your days off vanish before you can actually rest? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, host Caroline Danna, MSN, RN shares how to romanticize self-care and find calm, beauty, and joy in your everyday nurse life — no spa day required. Inspired by Taylor Swift’s song “Opalite,” Caroline explores how happiness can be man-made and how slowing down can recharge your mind, body, and spirit. From brewing coffee like a ritual to turning your commute or shower into a moment of peace, she shows simple ways to transform burnout into balance. If you’re craving mindfulness, meaning, and intention in your nursing journey, this episode is your reminder that you don’t have to wait for joy — you can create it. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Application Advantage- Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 38: The Real Reason 33% of New Nurses Quit Within Their First Year | 14 Oct 2025 | 00:25:46 | |
Did you know that 33% of new graduate nurses leave their first job within a year, and nearly one in five leave nursing altogether? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, host Caroline Danna, MSN, RN (a clinical instructor and new nurse career coach) dives into why so many new nurses are walking away from the bedside… and what you can do to protect your passion, peace, and purpose in this profession. Caroline breaks down the real reasons behind new nurse burnout and turnover - from unsafe staffing and poor preceptorship to emotional exhaustion and lack of support. She also shares actionable strategies to help you survive and thrive during your first year, including how to set boundaries, find your people, and rebuild confidence when work feels overwhelming. If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I can’t do this anymore,” this episode will help you see that you’re not the problem, the system is. But you can take steps to protect your career, strengthen your mindset, and create a version of nursing that actually fits your life. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 37: 10 Tough Love Lessons Every Nurse Needs to Hear to Stop Playing Small | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:28:25 | |
Level up your nursing career with some necessary tough love. In this episode, I share 10 tough-love lessons every nurse needs—perfect for nursing students, new grad nurses, and working nurses navigating today’s high-stress healthcare environment. From letting go of what you can’t control to building confidence before you feel ready, these are the mindset shifts that reduce burnout, boost performance, and help you use your nursing license in a way that actually adds color to your life. You’ll hear personal stories from bedside and leadership—ER shifts, AMA conversations, near-miss medication moments, and the season I realized I’d outgrown a role that looked great on paper. We’ll talk about consistency for skill mastery, why “fake it ’til you make it” (done safely) works, how to stop comparison and measure progress against yourself, why mistakes are lessons—not failure, and the freeing truth that you’re replaceable (which means you’re allowed to pivot). If you’ve been playing small, people-pleasing, or spiraling in “what-ifs,” this episode is your nudge to take the next right step. Great for: nursing school motivation, new grad nurse confidence, clinical growth, time management, career pivots, and burnout prevention. If this resonated, please rate and review the show—it helps more nursing students and new grads find practical support. And if you loved the boundary piece, don’t miss Episode 30 on the “Let Them” theory for stress and burnout. One hand for me, and the other for you. 💛 Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 36: How New Nurses Can Use ChatGPT to Build Critical Thinking Skills | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:15:25 | |
Critical thinking is one of the most important skills you’ll ever develop as a new nurse but it doesn’t come overnight. In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Nurse Career Coach Caroline shares how you can use ChatGPT as a practical tool to strengthen your clinical judgment and build confidence at the bedside. You’ll learn how to apply ChatGPT to the nursing process (ADPIE) - Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation - and discover how it can help you practice patient scenarios, debrief after tough shifts, break down complex topics like lab values and medications, run prioritization drills, and even role-play SBAR handoffs or provider calls. Caroline also highlights creative ways new nurses and nursing students are already using ChatGPT, from creating study tools for NCLEX prep to brainstorming strategies for orientation success. With real-life examples and actionable takeaways, this episode will show you how to use ChatGPT as a safe, judgment-free sandbox to practice and refine your thinking - so you can feel more prepared, confident, and capable in your nursing career. If you’re ready to go beyond memorization and start thinking like a nurse, this episode is for you. Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 35: Exploring Remote Nursing Jobs with the Co-Founder of Go Beyond the Bedside | 23 Sep 2025 | 00:38:27 | |
Are you curious about how nurses can build flexible, remote careers? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, Caroline sits down with David Rosenbeck, co-founder of Go Beyond the Bedside, to talk about breaking free from traditional hospital roles. David shares his journey from bedside nursing to launching a platform that connects nurses with remote nursing jobs, virtual care opportunities, and innovative ways to use their clinical skills outside the hospital. If you’re a new nurse exploring career options or a seasoned nurse ready for a change, this conversation will give you insights into remote work, telehealth, and the future of nursing. Tune in to learn how to create a career that fits your lifestyle, prevents burnout, and expands what’s possible for your nursing journey. Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Episode Guest Info & Mentioned Resources: Go Beyond the Bedside Website Connect with Go Beyond the Bedside Team on Instagram: @gobeyondthebedside FREE Resource: 8 Most Common Remote Jobs PDF Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 34: A Real-Life Grey’s Anatomy Nurse & PA Love Story: Celebrating 10 Years Married | 16 Sep 2025 | 01:01:35 | |
This week, I’m joined by a very special guest - my husband, Bryan Danna, PA-C and Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force. Together, we’re celebrating our 10-year wedding anniversary with a conversation that blends love, laughter, and a behind-the-scenes look at life as a dual healthcare couple. From marathon training to raising three kids, from military commitments to launching my nursing business, Bryan and I get real about what it takes to balance marriage, family, and demanding careers in medicine. We reminisce about our early days, meeting while I was a nursing student and he was an orthopedic PA sharing a story that feels straight out of Grey’s Anatomy (minus the drama). You’ll hear Bryan’s perspective on watching me pivot from bedside nursing into entrepreneurship, the challenges and joys of supporting each other through career changes, and why time (more than money) has become our family’s greatest priority. Whether you’re a nurse, student, or simply curious about what it’s like to build a marriage and career in healthcare, this episode is heartfelt, funny, and full of honest reflections. Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Stan Store Webinar & Freebies → Stan Store Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 33: Maybe a Nurse Retreat is Exactly What You Need | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:36:08 | |
In this episode of Life After Nursing School, I chat with Nicole Johnson, BSN, RN, CCRN - Critical Care Nurse and founder of Unwound Retreats. Nicole knows firsthand the challenges of burnout and has built a career around helping nurses reconnect with themselves and their purpose. With certifications in Happiness at Work, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, and Psychological First Aid, she blends evidence-based wellness with real-world nursing experience. Since 2019, Nicole has led Unwound Retreats across Mexico, Morocco, and California, offering nurses a chance to rest, reflect, and build community. Her retreats combine yoga, meditation, journaling, and CE-accredited education with meaningful connection and plenty of fun. In our conversation, Nicole shares her own life after nursing school, how one season of burnout shifted her path, and why creating space for nurses to breathe is so important. She also gives us a preview of her upcoming Sayulita, Mexico retreat—with luxury lodging, daily wellness practices, paddleboarding, chef-prepared meals, and up to 8 CE credits. Whether you’re a new grad nurse or an experienced RN, this episode will inspire you to prioritize self-care and community. Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Connect with Nicole & Unwound Retreats: *SPECIAL Discount Code: ‘NEWGRADNURSE’ - $200 off Unwound November 2025 Retreat! Unwound Retreats Instagram → @unwoundretreatsfornurses Nicole Johnson Instagram → @nicolejohnson.rn Nicole Johnson TikTok → @nicolejohnson.rn Retreat Website → Unwound Retreats Website Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 32: Pumpkin Spice Season Prep: Energy, Sleep, and Stress Hacks for Nurses | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:29:23 | |
Fall is here - pumpkin spice, busy schedules, and all the chaos that comes with it. Whether you’re a nursing student heading back to clinicals or a new grad nurse starting your first job, this season can feel overwhelming. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 simple strategies to help you stay organized, reduce decision fatigue, and actually enjoy pumpkin spice season. From creating a weekly reset routine to building a bedtime wind-down and protecting your energy, these practical nurse tips will help you move through fall with more calm and confidence. 👉 Perfect for new nurses, nursing students, or anyone juggling school, shifts, and family life. Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate
Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline:
Episode Mentioned Resources: Factor75 Meal Service Link Here Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 31: Surviving Nursing Orientation When Your Preceptor Isn’t the Best Fit | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:20:16 | |
Starting your first nursing job is exciting, but what if your preceptor isn’t the right fit? Orientation sets the foundation for your nursing career, and a mismatched preceptor can make it harder to build confidence and independence as a new grad nurse. In this episode of Life After Nursing School, we’ll break down what a supportive orientation should look like, the red flags of an ineffective preceptor, and how to advocate for yourself if you’re struggling. You’ll hear practical scripts you can use when speaking with your manager, plus strategies to keep the conversation professional and solutions-focused. We’ll also cover how to be a strong orientee - asking the right questions, taking initiative with skills, and using your unit’s resources to accelerate learning. And if your preceptor’s behavior is unsafe or crosses the line, I’ll share steps you can take to protect yourself and your practice. This episode will help you navigate preceptor challenges with confidence and set yourself up for nursing success. Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate
Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 30: The Unique Mindset Shift Every Nurse Needs to Beat Stress and Burnout: The ‘Let Them’ Theory | 19 Aug 2025 | 00:17:48 | |
In this episode, we’re diving into Mel Robbins’ “Let Them” Theory and how it can transform your nursing practice, especially if you’re a new grad or navigating the pressures of the job. The “Let Them” Theory is simple yet powerful:
We will walk through real-life nursing scenarios - from being pressured to pick up extra shifts, to handling frustrated patients, to setting boundaries with family and show you how this mindset shift helps protect your mental health, reduce burnout, and boost your confidence at work. Whether you’re a nursing student, new graduate nurse, or experienced RN, this episode will give you practical tools to manage stress, build resilience, and thrive in your career. Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate
Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 29: How to Build Financial Freedom as a Nurse (Even with Student Loans) ft. The Net Worth Nurse | 12 Aug 2025 | 00:56:55 | |
If you’re a nursing student or new grad nurse dreaming of financial freedom or just wanting more control over your career this episode is for you. Today, I’m joined by Savannah Arroyo, The Net Worth Nurse, who went from hustling to land her first job in California’s saturated market to building a $3+ million real estate portfolio and leaving bedside nursing behind. Savannah shares how she climbed the nursing ladder from bedside RN to nurse manager with her sights set on becoming a CNO. But motherhood changed everything, and she realized she didn’t want her life dictated by her job. That’s when she turned to real estate investing - with no finance background and created a new path for herself. We cover:
By the end of this episode, you’ll see that financial independence for nurses is possible and you’ll feel inspired to take the first step toward a career and life you truly love. Connect with Podcast Guest: Savannah Arroyo - The Net Worth Nurse Books Mentioned in the Episode:
*All books can be viewed here - Caroline may earn a small commission from purchases made through affiliate links of references mentioned in the show. This support helps keep the podcast going and is truly appreciated! Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 28: New Nurses - What No One Tells You During Orientation | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:34:12 | |
Are you a new nurse feeling overwhelmed by everything they didn’t teach you in nursing school? You’re not alone—and in this episode, I’m answering some of the most commonly asked questions from both listeners and members of The New Nurse Society. We’re covering real-life topics every new grad nurse wants (and needs) to know about: Whether you’re starting orientation, struggling to adjust to night shift, or wondering if you made the right career choice, this episode is packed with relatable stories, honest advice, and practical tips you can take with you into your next shift. You’ll also get an inside look at conversations happening in my online community, The New Nurse Society - where new grad nurses come for job search support, career coaching, and real-time answers to the challenges that come after you land the job. ✨ Topics like burnout, imposter syndrome, preceptor red flags, and toxic unit dynamics If you’re a new grad nurse or nursing student preparing for your first job, this is a must-listen episode that will leave you feeling more confident, less alone, and better prepared for the real world of nursing. 🎧 Don’t forget to follow the show, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow nursing student or new nurse friend who could use the support! Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline
Resources Referenced in the show:
Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE Please consider rating & following the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 27: How to Manifest YOUR Dream Nurse Life | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:34:25 | |
Are you a nursing student or new grad nurse dreaming of a life that feels aligned, balanced, and fulfilling - both in and out of scrubs? In this episode of Life After Nursing School, we’re diving deep into manifestation, not the vague, "wish-upon-a-star" kind, but a grounded, step-by-step approach to creating the life and nursing career you actually want. Whether you’re spiritually curious, full-on into manifestation, or just looking for more clarity in your post-nursing school journey, this conversation is for you. ✨ Inside this episode, we’ll explore:
If you’re tired of feeling stuck, burned out, or unsure what’s next after nursing school, this episode offers clarity, tools, and encouragement to help you step into your dream life - on your terms. 💭 Whether you’re trying to land your first new grad nursing job, transition out of a toxic work environment, or explore alternative nursing careers, manifestation can help you get aligned, focused, and ready to take inspired action. 🎧 By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear, 7-step manifestation framework that blends mindset, action, and belief—designed to help you create a nursing life that supports you. Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate -Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline
Please consider rating & following the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 26: How I Accidentally Manifested My Dream Nursing Career | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:29:20 | |
In this episode of Life After Nursing School, I share how I accidentally manifested my dream life and nursing career - without even realizing it. Whether you're a nursing student, new grad nurse, or feeling burnt out in your current role, this story will give you hope, clarity, and a new way to think about your career. I open up about my early struggles as a cross-country runner and how a session with a hypnotist introduced me to the power of the subconscious mind. Years later, after burnout as a nurse manager, parenting through a pandemic, and feeling unfulfilled in my role, I began visualizing a different kind of life - one with more balance, joy, and intention. We dive into:
If you’re wondering how to avoid nurse burnout, create real work-life balance, or pivot your career in a way that aligns with your life outside of nursing, this episode is for you. You’ll hear how I moved from bedside and management roles to travel nurse recruiting, clinical instructing, and building a business that supports other new nurses. ✨ Manifestation isn’t magic—it’s clarity, consistency, and courage. Follow the show for more conversations around new grad nurse success, nurse mental health, mindset shifts, and non-traditional nursing roles. Thank You to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate -Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline
Please consider rating & following the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 25: Nurse Burnout Recovery: Fitness, Boundaries & Motivation with Niko Saunders | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:47:47 | |
Feeling stuck in survival mode as a nursing student or new grad nurse? In this episode, I sit down with ICU nurse, fitness coach, and content creator Niko Saunders (@officialfitrn) to talk all things nurse burnout, healthy habits, and building a life outside the bedside. Niko opens up about the moment he realized he wasn’t okay, how a medical diagnosis led to a wake-up call, and the powerful mindset shift that helped him reclaim his health. We dive into nurse-friendly fitness tips, the truth about burnout, and how to create consistency in a chaotic schedule. Whether you're in nursing school, a new grad navigating your first job, or a nurse ready to feel like yourself again, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, follow, and share it with a nurse friend who could use some motivation today. Guest Bio: Niko Saunders, BSN, RN is a registered nurse working in the medical and neuro ICU. After experiencing the toll that burnout and stress can take on healthcare workers, Niko shifted focus toward fitness and lifestyle coaching specifically for nurses. Now, alongside bedside care, Niko helps fellow nurses build strength, improve energy, and create sustainable habits - without the all-or-nothing mindset. Through a realistic, experience-backed approach, Niko empowers nurses to take back control of their health and well-being Connect with Guest Niko Saunders: Instagram → @officialfitrn Tiktok → @nikosaunders Connect with Nurse Coach Caroline: Instagram → @NurseCoachCaroline TikTok → @NurseCoachCaroline Website → nursecoachcaroline.com Join the Community → The New Nurse Society Thank you to our Life After Nurse School Podcast Affiliate -Mometrix: Study for the NCLEX or entrance exams (HESI & TEAS) with affordable resource Mometrix. Apply “ Caroline20” to get 20% off: https://ref.mometrix.com/1191-852.htm Please consider rating & subscribing to the show if this episode brought value to your life! I am here for you <3 ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 24: What Lights Me Up (& Drives Me Crazy) - The Real Me, Unfiltered | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:25:00 | |
Episode Summary This episode is a little different - it's a personal one. After six months of podcasting, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing more about who I am beyond the mic. From my journey through nursing school and loss, to marriage, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and self-discovery in my 30s - this is the real, unfiltered story behind the podcast. Whether you're a nursing student, new grad, or just someone figuring out your own path, I hope this episode helps you feel seen, supported, and inspired. Resources Mentioned
If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you. DM me on Instagram, send a message through TikTok, or shoot me an email. Your feedback, stories, and questions inspire future episodes and remind me that we’re in this together. Let’s Connect! 💌 Email: info.nursecoachcaroline@gmail.com 📥 New Nurse Society: Link here to join ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||
| 23: What It’s Really Like to Start in the ER and Create Content as a New Nurse with Alyssa Jobes | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:50:40 | |
Today’s episode is a must-listen if you’re a new nurse wondering what it’s like to jump into the ER right after graduation—or if you're curious about building an online presence as a nurse. I’m joined by Alyssa Jobs, a new grad ER nurse and content creator based in California. We talk about her nursing school journey, what it actually felt like to land her first job (after applying to over 100 positions!), how she’s learning to trust her gut as a nurse, and what it’s like to show up online as a creator while working full time. This one is honest, encouraging, and packed with helpful tips.
💬 Connect with Caroline:
Online Community: The New Nurse Society Application Advantage - Resume/Cover Letter Course HERE ⭐️ Join LuminaRN Waitlist here | |||