CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light

Dr. Kendra Saal, RN

“CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light” is a podcast that highlights the real stories, challenges, and triumphs of nursing students, faculty, and alumni from Concordia University, St. Paul. We go beyond the textbooks and simulations to explore what it truly means to answer the call to care, sharing inspiring experiences, practical insights, and powerful moments that shape the heart of nursing. Whether you're a future nurse or a seasoned professional, join us as we dive deeper into the humanity behind the profession.  We will do our best to drop new podcasts on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month!

Episodes

  1. 4D AGO

    The Calling of a Lifetime: Nursing with Mercy Ships

    What happens when your nursing career takes you thousands of miles away from the comforts of a local clinic and onto a floating hospital? In this episode, we sit down with Maria Brown, a CSP Nursing graduate who traded a traditional hospital setting for a cabin on a Mercy Ship. Mercy Ships is a global humanitarian organization that operates state-of-the-art hospital vessels, bringing free, life-saving surgeries to nations with limited healthcare access. As a volunteer nurse, Maria works at the intersection of high-tech medicine and deep human connection. In this episode, we discuss: The Leap of Faith: What inspired Maria to transition from a student at CSP to a global healthcare volunteer.Education in Action: How her nursing training prepared her for the fast-paced, low-resource environments of West Africa.Life on Board: A "behind-the-scenes" look at the daily routine, the international community of volunteers, and the unique challenges of nursing at sea.Stories of Transformation: Maria shares heart-stirring accounts of patients whose lives were changed by the surgeries they received on board.Global Perspectives: Advice for current nursing students who feel called to humanitarian work and how to navigate cultural and language barriers with compassion.Whether you are a nursing student looking for your "why," a healthcare professional curious about global missions, or simply someone who loves a story of radical service, Maria’s journey will leave you inspired to see the world—and your career—differently. Key Takeaways "The heart of nursing is the same everywhere, but on the ship, you realize just how much a single surgery can restore a person's place in their community." — Maria BrownFollow Maria’s Journey: Learn more about the mission: MercyShips.orgExplore CSP Nursing: CSP.edu/NursingSend us a text

    46 min

  2. 10/23/2025

    Global Health: Making an Impact Beyond Borders

    Guest: Katie DeJong, RN, Global Health Advocate In this inspiring episode of CSP Nursing: Beyond the Calllight, we explore how nurses are making a difference on a global scale. Our guest, Katie DeJong, shares her journey as a nurse leader and global health advocate, offering insight into what it truly means to provide care that transcends borders, cultures, and circumstances. Together, we unpack key questions: How do we define global health, and why is it vital for nurses to engage in this work?What global experiences have shaped Katie’s personal and professional growth?How can nurses address challenges such as infectious disease outbreaks, maternal-child health disparities, and access to care in low-resource settings?What can nursing students and new graduates do to get involved in global health — even if they can’t travel internationally?Katie also reflects on how global health work strengthens the very core of nursing — compassion, adaptability, and cultural competence. From community partnerships to ethical practice, her insights highlight how nurses can lead change both abroad and at home. Whether you’re a nursing student dreaming of working internationally, a faculty member guiding the next generation, or a practicing nurse seeking deeper purpose in your career, this episode will challenge you to think beyond boundaries and imagine the global impact of your care. Here's a list of some books that give a glimpse into global health in some capacity. Not all are focused on healthcare specifically, but violence and oppression are important aspects of global health, so I have included some that address that. Some are fiction, but are based on true events. "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder      The story of Dr. Paul Farmer, who worked to improve healthcare in Haiti, Cuba, Peru, Russia, and African nations. "The Blue Sweater" by Jacqueline Novogratz       An autobiography of an international banker, who left her job to found an organization focusing on helping to uplift people out of poverty through financial self-sufficiency. "When Helping Hurts: by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert       A Chrisitian viewpoint on what the best approach to helping looks like. It challenges many of the current practices that high-income countries often implement to help low-income countries, pointing out the negative impacts that are overlooked. "The Ghost Map" by Steve Johnson      The story of the London cholera outbreak in 1854 and how it led to the invention of epidemiology. This event is considered the beginning of public health interventions. "Left to Tell" by Immaculee Ilibagiza      An autobiography of a young girl during the Rwandan genocide. "In the time of the Butterflies" by Julia Alvarez      A fictionalized account of the real Mirabal sisters, who fought against political oppression in the Dominican Republic. "As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow" by Zoulfa Katouh      A fictional story that takes place during the Syrian Revolution. It follows a college-aged girl who is thrown into the role of a surgeon (despite no training), and explores her journey of being a healthcare provider in the midst of extreme violence. The theme of PTSD is also prevalent, so I will add a trigger warning for those who have experienced PTSD from working in healthcare. "When Sleeping Women Awake, Mountains will Move" by Barbara Mosley de Souza     The author worked in Brazil for 40 years, where she built a curriculum for community health educator training in order to empower women. This book tells many stories of the women she encountered during her work.  Send us a text

    29 min

  3. 09/23/2025

    Call Light Chronicals: The Shift that Broke Me and the One That Built Me Back

    In this emotional episode of The Call Light Chronicles, we follow Rachel, a nursing student whose dream of becoming a nurse collided with a clinical day that nearly broke her spirit. From charting errors and medication mishaps to tears behind a locked bathroom door, Rachel’s story is one many students will recognize. But what happened next—a compassionate instructor, a plan for growth, and the decision to try again—transformed failure into fuel for resilience. Today, Rachel is a pediatric oncology nurse who still journals—not her failures, but her moments of impact. This episode is a tribute to every nursing student who’s ever doubted their place in this profession. Your stumbles don’t define you—your strength does. Story narrated by CSP Nursing Student: Pepsy Ofoegbu Send us a text

    9 min

  4. 09/16/2025

    🎧 Beyond the Diagnosis: Vulnerability and Voice in Mental Health featuring Brendan Downes

    In this powerful episode, ABSN student Brendan Downes opens up about his journey into nursing and the transformative lessons he’s learned from working in mental health care. Brendan shares how shifting from talking at patients to truly talking with them changed his approach to care, and how moments of vulnerability and recovery have deepened his understanding of the nursing profession. Through honest reflections on balancing clinical demands with emotional presence, challenging assumptions, and growing as a communicator, Brendan offers meaningful insights for nursing students and professionals alike. Whether you’re new to psych nursing or just need a reminder of why this work matters, this conversation is a must-listen. Send us a text

    25 min

  5. 09/09/2025

    Call Light Chronicles: The Quiet Power of Presence: Kayla and Eli’s Story

    🎙️ Welcome to The Call Light Chronicles, a special storytelling series from CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light. During these off-weeks, we’re bringing you short, reflective stories from the world of nursing—moments that have stayed with us, challenged us, or changed us. In this episode of The Call Light Chronicles, we follow Kayla, a nursing student just beginning her psychiatric mental health rotation. Nervous and unsure of her impact, she meets Eli, a young patient whose silence speaks volumes. Through stillness, patience, and quiet consistency, Kayla learns that connection doesn’t always look the way we expect—but it matters more than we know. This is a story about listening without fixing, showing up without expectation, and finding meaning in the quiet moments. Story read by CSP Nursing Student, Pepsy Ofoegbu. Send us a text

    7 min

  6. 09/02/2025

    The Power of Advocacy with Dr. Janiece Paulet

    Website Podcast Introduction: In this inspiring episode of CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light, we sit down with Dr. Janiece Paulet, a dedicated faculty member and course lead at Concordia University, St. Paul College of Nursing. Dr. Paulet brings a wealth of clinical experience and a deep passion for empowering future nurses to become strong advocates for their patients, their communities, and themselves. Together, we explore what advocacy means in the nursing profession and why it's more important than ever. Dr. Paulet shares real-life examples, practical tips for nursing students, and advice for new graduates on how to develop their voice and use it to create meaningful change at the bedside, in healthcare systems, and even in legislation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to grow in confidence, courage, and compassion as a nurse advocate. Listen now and learn how to speak up, stand out, and make a difference. 🎙️ CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light Available on all major podcast platforms. #CSPNursing #BeyondTheCallLight #NurseAdvocate #NursingLeadership #NurseEducator #NursingStudentSupport #HealthEquity #NurseVoice #NurseEmpowerment #CSPCommunity #NursingFaculty #NurseMentor #NursePodcast #AdvocacyInNursing #FutureNurseLeader Send us a text

    32 min

  7. 08/19/2025

    Peer Support in Action: Stephanie Ryman on Mentoring First-Semester Nursing Students

    Podcast Description: In this inspiring episode of CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light, we sit down with Stephanie Ryman, a current ABSN student at Concordia University, St. Paul. Stephanie and a few of her classmates have launched a peer-to-peer mentorship group to support first-semester nursing students, and the impact has been incredible. Stephanie opens up about the challenges she faced in her own first semester and how those experiences fueled her desire to help others. She shares how the group provides emotional and academic support, what a typical session looks like, and the importance of creating a safe space for honest conversations. We also talk about personal growth, time management, and the ripple effect of student-led initiatives. Whether you’re in nursing school, thinking about starting a support group, or just love hearing about students lifting each other up, this episode is for you. Listen now and be inspired by the difference a few motivated students can make. #CSPNursing #BeyondTheCallLight #NursingSchoolSupport #PeerMentorship #FutureNurses #ABSNJourney #NursingStudents #NursingSchoolLife #StudentSuccess #NursingPodcast #NurseMentor #CSPCommunity #MentalHealthInNursing #NurseLife #NewNurseSupport Send us a text

    22 min

  8. 08/05/2025

    Leading the Charge: RQI at CSP with Madison Schwab

    In this episode, we sit down with Madison Schwab, Director of Clinical Operations at Concordia St. Paul (CSP), to discuss the launch of the Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) program on campus. Madison shares how this innovative program is transforming CPR training by focusing on low-dose, high-frequency practice and real-time feedback—making life-saving skills more accessible and effective for healthcare professionals and community members alike. Whether you're a CSP student, faculty member, staff, or someone in the community, this episode will open your eyes to why CPR education is evolving—and how you can be part of it. Tune in to learn more about RQI, how it's being implemented at CSP, and why it's a game changer for clinical readiness and community safety. https://www.csp.edu/resuscitation-quality-improvement-rqi-bls-program/ Send us a text

    15 min

  9. 07/22/2025

    Welcome to The Call Light Chronicles

    🎙️ Welcome to The Call Light Chronicles, a special storytelling series from CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light. During these off-weeks, we’re bringing you short, reflective stories from the world of nursing—moments that have stayed with us, challenged us, or changed us. In our very first installment, we're honored to feature a story called "The Patient in 509," read by Pepsy Ofoegbu, one of our incredible Traditional St. Paul nursing students. This story speaks to the quiet power of presence, compassion, and the deep connections that can form in even the most unexpected places. So wherever you are, take a moment to listen in and reflect with us. This is The Call Light Chronicles. Send us a text

    7 min

  10. 07/15/2025

    🩺 Podcast Title: The First Time I Felt Like a Nurse

    In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Professor Dannette Mathis, a seasoned nurse with 11 years of experience and a beloved faculty member at Concordia University, St. Paul. Dannette shares the unforgettable story of the moment she truly felt like a nurse—when clinical skills met human connection and purpose came to life. Together, we explore the deeper meaning behind the profession—how nursing goes far beyond procedures and protocols. It’s about seeing the whole person, being present in sacred moments, and remembering the “why” that keeps you grounded through it all. Whether you're a student, new grad, or seasoned nurse, this episode will inspire you to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the heart of your calling. Send us a text

    35 min

  11. 07/01/2025

    Healing Others, Healing Herself: Rachel’s Journey Home to Nursing

    Guest: Rachel Matsch, CSP Nursing Alumna, ICU Nurse In this unforgettable episode of CSP: Beyond the Call Light, we welcome Rachel Matsch, August 2020 graduate of CSP’s Traditional Nursing program and current ICU nurse at Regions Hospital. But Rachel’s journey to the bedside wasn’t easy. Before she wore the scrubs, she fought through the darkness of alcohol addiction, ultimately finding her purpose and power in the role of a nurse.  Her story is raw, real, and rooted in the kind of resilience that every nurse and nursing student needs to hear. As Florence Nightingale once said, "I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took any excuse." Rachel embodies that truth, and her voice will move you. Whether you're in nursing school, at the bedside, or somewhere in between, Rachel’s journey reminds us all that healing often begins with being brave enough to face your story—and strong enough to rise from it. Grounded in faith and guided by grace, this episode is a testament to the strength it takes to become the nurse you were meant to be. Send us a text

    48 min

  12. 06/09/2025

    Leaping Higher: Arika Harbo’s Journey from Champion to Caregiver

    In this episode of CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light, we sit down with Arika Harbo, Concordia University, St. Paul's most decorated track and field athlete, four-time national high jump champion, and 2022 nursing graduate. From competing in the U.S. Olympic Trials to earning her MBA in Healthcare Management, Arika shares how her drive for excellence has shaped her path as both a student-athlete and a nurse, making an impact beyond the arena.  Send us a text

    32 min
  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

“CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light” is a podcast that highlights the real stories, challenges, and triumphs of nursing students, faculty, and alumni from Concordia University, St. Paul. We go beyond the textbooks and simulations to explore what it truly means to answer the call to care, sharing inspiring experiences, practical insights, and powerful moments that shape the heart of nursing. Whether you're a future nurse or a seasoned professional, join us as we dive deeper into the humanity behind the profession.  We will do our best to drop new podcasts on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month!

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Kendra Saal, RN
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light
  • Show Website
    CSP Nursing: Beyond the Call Light