Think Like A Provider | For Nurses

Professor Jennawè

Think Like a Provider™ is the clinical reasoning podcast for nursing students, RNs, and NP students who are done memorizing and ready to understand. Hosted by Jennawè, A double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner & clinical reasoning educator, this podcast teaches the mechanisms behind clinical thinking, not just the answers. Because Aristotle was right: knowing a thing means knowing its cause. And that principle is as true at the bedside as it was in ancient Athens. Every episode builds one of four core competencies: Clinical Reasoning — How to gather cues, build differentials from scratch, recognize patterns, prioritize red flags, and make decisions the way experienced providers actually make them. Not algorithms to memorize. Frameworks to reason with. NP Board Prep — Dedicated episodes for AANP (FNP-C) and ANCC (FNP-BC) candidates. Mechanism-based board prep that explains why the right answer is right — with explicit AANP vs ANCC callouts so you know exactly how each board tests the same clinical content differently. Neuroscience + Performance — The science of how your brain learns, retains, and performs under pressure. Working memory, pattern recognition, the amygdala hijack, procedural memory, and why the freeze during a code is biology, not weakness. Wellness + Clinical Performance — Nutrition, sleep, stress, and recovery framed as clinical performance science — not lifestyle content. Your brain is an organ. This pillar teaches you how to fuel it. If you are searching for how to think clinically, how to build a differential, how to prepare for the NCLEX or NP boards, how to stop freezing under pressure, or how to bridge pathophysiology to clinical decisions, this podcast gives you the mechanism behind every answer. The greatest clinicians in history reasoned their way to the truth. So will you. New episodes every week. All content is evidence-based and peer-reviewed. Educational only — not medical advice. Host: Jennawè Whitley, APRN, FNP-BC, NP-C | The Patho Queen 👑 Instagram & TikTok: @ThinkLikeAProvider Email: thinklikeaprovider@gmail.com

Episodes

  1. Episode 11: Why You Freeze During Codes: The Neuroscience of Stress & Clinical Performance | Nursing Brain Science

    5D AGO

    Episode 11: Why You Freeze During Codes: The Neuroscience of Stress & Clinical Performance | Nursing Brain Science

    Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered why your brain goes completely blank in a code — even when you know exactly what to do? That's the amygdala hijack. And this episode explains the exact neuroscience behind why it happens and how to stop it. You'll learn:  Why the freeze is biology, not weakness — amygdala hijack decoded How acute stress suppresses your prefrontal cortex firstThe difference between declarative and procedural memory — and why only one survives acute stress • Why studying more is the wrong fix for the freeze response • Why simulation discomfort is the training stimulus, not a design flawThree evidence-based in-the-moment tools: breath, anchor phrase, move your feetHow to build the stress-resistant brain over timePractical Takeaways:  The freeze = amygdala hijack + prefrontal cortex suppression — not a knowledge gap Declarative memory (studying) ≠ , procedural memory (practice) — only procedural survives acute stress Build procedural memory through deliberate, repeated practice under realistic stress In the moment: one slow exhale (vagal activation), one anchor phrase, move your feet Debrief every high-stakes experience — extract the clinical data from it Your physiological state before clinical lowers or raises your freeze thresholdTimestamps:  [0:00] The freeze — and what it actually means about you  [4:00] Amygdala + prefrontal cortex — how stress breaks their relationship  [8:30] Declarative vs procedural memory  [13:00] Why studying more doesn't fix it  [16:30] Three in-the-moment tools  [20:00] Building the stress-resistant brain  [23:30] Closing + homework References:  Hossein et al. (2023). Molecular Psychiatry, 28(11), 4602–4612.  Valmaggia et al. (2024). Ulster Medical Journal, 93(2), 115–124.  Hebel et al. (2025). Nursing Reports, 15(8), 307.  Chen et al. (2024). Nurse Education Today, 142, 106335.  Girotti et al. (2024). Neurobiology of Stress, 33, 100670. Host: Professor Jennawè| The Patho Queen 👑  Instagram, TikTok, Threads, & YouTube: @ThinkLikeAProvider Support the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    23 min

  2. APR 28

    Episode 10: Differential Diagnosis for NP Students: How to Build One From Scratch | AANP & ANCC Board Prep

    Send us Fan Mail You don't have a differential problem. You have a method problem. Most NP programs teach you diseases — not the cognitive process of building a differential from the ground up. Both the AANP and ANCC test that process, not your recall. This episode gives you the four-step mechanism-based framework that experienced providers use to derive a differential from any chief complaint. You'll learn: Why memorized differential lists fail under board pressure and in real clinical situationsThe four-step framework: Anatomy → Mechanism → Probability → Can't-MissHow AANP Diagnose domain questions test differential reasoning (and what "most likely" actually means)How ANCC adds an evidence layer and professional role layer to the same clinical reasoningWhy premature closure is the most common cognitive error in diagnosis — and how the framework prevents itTwo full clinical case walkthroughs using the framework in real timeThe specific AANP question patterns you need to recognizeThe ANCC diagnostic uncertainty framework and when communicating uncertainty is clinically requiredPractical Takeaways: Before you think diagnoses, think anatomy — name every structure in the location of the symptomApply VITAMIN C to each structure: Vascular, Infectious, Traumatic, Autoimmune, Metabolic, Idiopathic/Iatrogenic, Neoplastic, CongenitalWeight probabilities using: base rates, risk factors, clinical presentation, demographicsThe can't-miss filter: what diagnosis, if missed, could kill or seriously harm this patient? Rule it out with data, not assumptionAANP "most likely" questions: find the ONE feature that distinguishes the correct answer by mechanismANCC adds evidence layer: know which guideline governs the evaluation of the diagnosis you're building towardHost: Professor Jennawè | The Patho Queen 👑 REFERENCES (2022–2024) Smith, S. K., Benbenek, M. M., Bakker, C. J., & Bockwoldt, D. (2022). Scoping review: Diagnostic reasoning as a component of clinical reasoning in the U.S. primary care nurse practitioner education. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 78(12), 3869–3896. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.15414Loncharich, M. F., Robbins, R. C., Durning, S. J., et al. (2023). Cognitive biases in internal medicine: A scoping review. Diagnosis, 10(3), 205–214. Support the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    32 min

  3. APR 21

    Episode 9: How to Prioritize Patients as a Nursing Student | Clinical Judgment & NCLEX Prioritization

    Send us Fan Mail Four patients. Four needs. All at the same time. Your brain freezes — not because you don't know nursing, but because nobody taught you how to actually prioritize. This episode gives you the mechanism behind clinical prioritization — not the rules, not the NCLEX list, but the framework that makes the right decision feel obvious. You'll learn: Why the way prioritization is taught sets you up to freeze in real clinical situationsThe four questions that drive every prioritization decision you will ever makeHow physiological stability — not urgency or volume — is the true mechanism behind prioritizationWhat failure to rescue is and how your prioritization decisions prevent itHow to communicate prioritization to your team when you can't get everywhere at onceTimestamps: [0:00] Four patients, four problems, one frozen brain — the real clinical prioritization moment[3:30] Official intro + what we offer[4:00] Why the ABCs and Maslow's hierarchy aren't enough[6:00] The real mechanism behind prioritization: physiological stability[8:00] The four questions framework[10:00] Immediate compromise, active decompensation, new vs established, trajectory[13:00] Walking through all four patients using the framework[17:00] The four mistakes that break new nurses[20:30] Failure to rescue — the real stakes of prioritization[23:00] Practical application: building the skill at the bedsideHost: Professor Jennawè|The Patho Queen REFERENCES  O'Connor, T., Gibson, J., Lewis, J., Strickland, K., & Paterson, C. (2023). Decision-making in nursing research and practice — Application of the Cognitive Continuum Theory: A meta-aggregative systematic review. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 32(23–24), 7979–7995. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.16893Vizeshfar, F., Rakhshan, M., Shirazi, F., & Dokoohaki, R. (2022). The effect of time management education on critical care nurses' prioritization: A randomized clinical trial. Acute and Critical Care, 37(2), 202–208. https://doi.org/10.4266/acc.2021.01123Ernstmeyer, K., & Christman, E. (Eds.). (2024). Nursing management and professional concepts (2nd ed.). Chippewa Valley Technical College / Open Resources for Nursing. Support the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    24 min

  4. APR 14

    Episode 8: What to Eat Before Clinicals: Nursing Nutrition & Brain Performance | Neuroscience for Nurses

    Send us Fan Mail You can know all the pathophysiology in the world. But if your prefrontal cortex is offline because you haven't eaten since dinner last night, none of it is accessible. This episode is the neuroscience of why nutrition is a clinical performance issue — not a wellness trend. You'll learn: [0:00] The vending machine cappuccino story — and the preceptor question that changed everything [4:00] Your brain on empty: 2% body weight, 20% energy consumption [6:00] Glucose, working memory, and the 4-7 slot filing cabinet  [10:00] Cortisol and the vicious cycle [11:30] Caffeine: short-term hero, long-term villain, and the 2 PM crash [13:00] What your brain actually needs (mechanisms, not meal plans) [13:30] Omega-3s and neuroplasticity [14:30] Protein and neurotransmitter production [15:30] Complex carbs and sustained glucose [16:30] Hydration — 2% dehydration tanks cognitive performance [17:30] What's sabotaging your clinical reasoning [20:30] The clinical reasoning connection — why this is a patient safety issue [22:30] Practical takeaways [25:00] Closing — your brain is an organ, fuel it like one Practical Takeaways: Before clinical: Protein + complex carb + fat (eggs, oats, avocado)During clinical: Bring snacks — nuts, fruit, protein bar (not vending machine garbage)After clinical: Recovery meal — complex carbs + protein to replenish and restoreNight shift: Eat before your shift, graze on protein and fat during, light meal afterExam day: Eat the breakfast you've practiced, time your caffeine, hydrate the day beforeREFERENCES  Welty, F. K. (2023). Omega-3 fatty acids and cognitive function. Current Opinion in Lipidology, 34(1), 12–21. https://doi.org/10.1097/MOL.0000000000000862Gasmi, A., Nasreen, A., Menzel, A., Gasmi Benahmed, A., Noor, S., Menzel, A., & Bjørklund, G. (2023). Neurotransmitters regulation and food intake: The role of dietary sources in neurotransmission. Molecules, 28(1), 210. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28010210Mascarenhas Fonseca, L., Strong, R. W., Singh, S., Bulger, J. D., Cleveland, M., Grinspoon, E., & Kahn, C. R. (2024). Impact of blood glucose on cognitive function in insulin resistance: Novel insights from ambulatory assessment. Nutrition & Diabetes, 14, 73. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41387-024-00331-0Almarzouki, A. F. (2024). Stress, working memory, and academic performance: A neuroscience perspective. Stress, 27(1), 2364333. https://doSupport the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    32 min

  5. APR 5

    Episode 7: The Neuroscience of Clinical Intuition: How Nurses Build Pattern Recognition

    Send us Fan Mail A woman walks in for a routine diabetes follow-up. Vitals are normal. But Jennawè's gut screams: something's wrong. Five minutes later, an EKG shows she's having a heart attack. How did she know? This episode breaks down the neuroscience of pattern recognition—and how you can train it. You'll learn: Why "gut feelings" aren't magic (they're implicit memory)The difference between pattern matching (memorization) vs pattern recognition (expertise)Two types of memory: explicit (conscious) vs implicit (automatic)The 3 stages of building pattern recognition in your brainWhy memorization doesn't build clinical intuitionDo you really need 10,000 hours? (Quality vs quantity of experience)5 strategies to train pattern recognition fasterWhat "gut feelings" actually are (your brain's alarm system)Novice to expert progression: what changes in your brainCommon mistakes students make when trying to develop pattern recognitionTimestamps:  [0:00] The patient who was having an MI—but Jennawè knew before the EKG  [4:00] Welcome to Think Like a Provider  [4:30] Why students think pattern recognition is memorization (it's not)  [7:00] Two types of memory: explicit vs implicit  [11:00] How your brain builds patterns (3 stages)  [15:30] Why memorization doesn't build pattern recognition  [18:00] Do you need 10,000 hours? Quality vs quantity  [20:00] 5 strategies to train pattern recognition  [24:00] The science of "gut feelings"  [26:00] Novice vs expert: what changes Clinical Pearls: Pattern recognition = implicit memory (automatic, fast, below conscious awareness)Pattern matching = explicit memory (slow, effortful, conscious recall)Your brain builds patterns through repeated, varied exposureReflection consolidates patterns faster than passive experienceThis Month's Neuroscience Deep-Dive Hosts:  Professor Jennawè| The Patho Queen 👑 REFERENCES: Kahneman, D., & Klein, G. (2023). Conditions for intuitive expertise: A failure to disagree - 20-year update. American Psychologist, 78(1), 1-14.Ericsson, K. A., & Pool, R. (2024). Peak Performance: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise, Revised Edition. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.Tanner, C. A. (2023). Thinking like a nurse: A research-based model of clinical judgment in nSupport the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    37 min

  6. MAR 25

    Episode 6: How to Think in Body Systems for Nursing Students | Stop Memorizing Symptoms

    Send us Fan Mail "The patient is short of breath. Should I give oxygen?" Wrong question. The right question: "Why is the patient short of breath?" This episode teaches you how to stop chasing symptoms and start understanding the systems that cause them. You'll learn: Why symptom-based thinking keeps you stuck in memorization modeThe difference between treating symptoms vs. treating systemsHow body systems interconnect (and why one system failure triggers others)The cardio-renal-pulmonary connection that explains heart failure, fluid overload, and edemaHow infection affects every system in the body (the sepsis cascade)Why you should ask "why" instead of "what" for every symptomThe System Localization Method: a 4-step framework for any symptomTimestamps:  [0:00] "Should I give oxygen?" Wrong question.  [4:00] Welcome to Think Like a Provider  [4:30] The problem with symptom-based thinking  [7:00] Symptom-first vs. system-first: a side-by-side comparison  [10:30] How body systems actually work (and interact)  [14:00] Asking "why" instead of "what"  [17:00] Applying system-based thinking to confusion, nausea, edema  [20:00] The domino effect: how dehydration affects every system  [23:00] The System Localization Method (4-step framework)  [25:00] Common mistakes students make Clinical Pearls: Symptoms are signals, not diagnosesSystems don't fail in isolation—they fail in patternsHeart failure → fluid backs up → kidneys retain more fluid → heart fails more (the vicious cycle)Confusion = brain not getting oxygen, glucose, perfusion, or electrolytesAsk: "Will my intervention address the cause or just mask the symptom?"System Recognition: What system? What would cause it to fail? What other symptoms would I expect? Assess to confirm.Hosts: Professor Jennawè, - Nurse Practitioner & Clinical EducatorAlice - Engaging Educator & Student Advocate REFERENCES : McCance, K. L., & Huether, S. E. (2022). Pathophysiology: The Biologic Basis for Disease in Adults and Children, 9th Edition. Elsevier.Victor-Chmil, J., & Larew, C. (2023). Developing clinical judgment in nursing students: A comprehensive review of simulation and case-based learning outcomes. Journal of Nursing Education, 62(8), 445-453.Butcher, R., & Holley, S. (2024)Support the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    28 min

  7. MAR 17

    Episode 5: The NCLEX Doesn't Test What You Know—It Tests How You Think

    Send us Fan Mail 2,000 practice questions. Failed four times. "I know the content—why do I keep failing?" Because the NCLEX doesn't test knowledge. It tests clinical judgment. This episode breaks down what the exam actually tests and how to prepare for a reasoning exam instead of a recall exam. You'll learn: Why "knowing the content" doesn't guarantee you'll passThe 6 cognitive skills the NCLEX actually tests (recognize cues, analyze cues, prioritize hypotheses, generate solutions, take action, evaluate outcomes)The difference between knowledge questions vs. reasoning questionsHow NCLEX questions are constructed (and how to use that to your advantage)Timestamps:  [0:00] The student who did 2,000 practice questions—and still failed  [3:45] Welcome to Think Like a Provider  [4:15] What the NCLEX actually tests (clinical judgment, not knowledge)  [7:30] Knowledge vs. reasoning: side-by-side comparison  [11:00] The anatomy of an NCLEX question  [13:30] Real-time walkthrough: how to reason through a question  [16:45] Why practice questions fail most students  [19:00] The priority framework that works for every question  [21:30] Common NCLEX mistakes and how to fix them  [24:00] What to do the week before (and the day of) the exam Clinical Pearls: NCLEX tests 6 cognitive skills: recognize, analyze, prioritize, generate, act, evaluateAll 4 answers are usually correct—you're choosing the priority, not the right answerPriority framework: What prevents death? What treats cause vs. symptom? What uses nursing process? What follows ABCs?Read the stem TWICE—details matterDon't change your answer unless you found new info you missedHard questions = you're doing well (the exam is adaptive)No studying the day before—your brain needs rest to reasonHosts: Professor Jennawè, FNP-BC, NP-C,  - Nurse Practitioner & EducatorAlice - Engaging Educator & Student Advocate REFERENCES: National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). (2023). Next Generation NCLEX (NGN): Clinical Judgment Measurement Model. NCSBN Research Brief, 2023 Update.Dickison, P., Haerling, K. A., & Lasater, K. (2023). Integrating the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Clinical Judgment Measurement Model: A guide for nurse educators. Journal of Nursing Education, 62(1), 3-7.Support the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    28 min

  8. MAR 10

    Episode 4: What Your Patients Are Telling You (That You're Not Hearing)

    Send us Fan Mail Episode 4: What Your Patients Are Telling You (That You're Not Hearing) 2:00 AM. Post-op patient. Vitals totally stable. But Jennawè knew he was dying. This episode teaches you how to read your patients beyond the monitor—and catch deterioration before the numbers crash. You'll learn: The 5 signs patients show before vitals change (altered mentation, skin changes, behavioral changes, respiratory changes, decreased urine output)Why looking at the monitor first is setting you up to miss deteriorationHow to do a visual assessment before checking vitalsThe difference between what students see and what providers see in the same patientReal case examples: "just confused" stroke, "just anxious" MI, "just tired" hypoglycemiaHow to calculate trends instead of just documenting numbersWhy "resting comfortably" might mean your patient is dyingTimestamps:  [0:00] The patient who looked stable—but was septic  [3:30] Welcome to Think Like a Provider  [4:00] Why students trust the monitor more than the patient  [7:30] The language your patients speak  [12:00] Case breakdown: what I saw vs. what students see  [16:30] More examples: stroke, MI, hypoglycemia  [20:00] How to develop this skill  [23:30] Common mistakes students make Clinical Pearls: Look at patient BEFORE monitor to avoid confirmation biasAltered mentation is earliest sign of deterioration (brain needs O2, glucose, perfusion)Urine output 30 mLs/hr = pre-renal failure/shockVague complaints ("I don't feel right") = body's alarm systemTrends matter more than individual valuesTouch your patients—skin temp/moisture/color tells the storyHosts: Professor Jennawè, Nurse Practitioner & EducatorAlice - Engaging Educator & Student Advocate REFERENCES: Kellett, J., & Sebat, F. (2024). Make vital signs great again: A call for action. QJM: An International Journal of Medicine, 117(1), 1-8.Evans, L., Rhodes, A., Alhazzani, W., et al. (2021). Surviving Sepsis Campaign: International Guidelines for Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock 2021. Critical Care Medicine, 49(11), e1063-e1143.Subbe, C. P., & Kinsella, S. (2024). Recognising acute illness: Respiratory rate and pulse oximetry. Clinical Medicine, 24(1), 100062.Smith, M. E. B., Support the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    24 min

  9. MAR 2

    Episode 3: Why Memorization Fails You Under Pressure

    Send us Fan Mail "I studied 8 hours a day. I did thousands of practice questions. I know the content. But I still failed." Sound familiar? This episode breaks down the neuroscience of why memorization fails under pressure—and what actually works instead. You'll learn: Why your brain can't access memorized facts when you're stressedThe difference between knowledge and reasoning (and why it matters)How working memory works (and why "studying more" makes it worse)Why students who know the content still freeze during examsHow to build mental models instead of memorizing listsThe right way to use practice questions (hint: not just checking answers)How to train reasoning as a skill, not just knowledgeTimestamps:  [0:00] The student who studied 8 hours a day—and failed anyway  [2:45] Welcome to Think Like a Provider  [3:15] What happens in your brain under pressure  [8:30] The shift from memorization to mental models  [13:45] Why practice questions aren't enough  [17:20] The real reason you freeze under pressure  [20:30] How to build reasoning skills (not just knowledge) Clinical Pearls: Working memory holds 4-7 pieces of info—fill it with facts, no room to thinkStress shrinks working memory even more—memorization fails when you need it mostMental models > lists: understand the mechanism, derive the restSkills are robust under pressure; knowledge is fragileDon't ask "what are the signs?" Ask "why does this cause those signs?"Hosts: Jennawè Whitley, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, NP-C - Nurse Practitioner & EducatorAlice - Engaging Educator & Student Advocate REFERENCES  Kavanagh, J. M., & Szweda, C. (2022). A crisis in competency: The strategic and ethical imperative to assessing new graduate nurses' clinical reasoning. Nursing Education Perspectives, 43(2), 102-107.Dickison, P., Haerling, K. A., & Lasater, K. (2023). Integrating the National Council of State Boards of Nursing Clinical Judgment Measurement Model: A guide for nurse educators. Journal of Nursing Education, 62(1), 3-7.Cowan, N. (2024). Working memory: The state of the science. Annual Review of Psychology, 75, 231-258.Croskerry, P., Singhal, G., & Mamede, S. (2023). Cognitive debiasing strategies in clinical decision making. Medical Education, 57(1)Support the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    20 min

  10. FEB 24

    Episode 2: The Clinical Case That Changed How I Teach Reasoning

    Send us Fan Mail A 23-year-old new mom. "Normal" vital signs. But Jennawè knew she was bleeding to death. This episode breaks down the postpartum hemorrhage case that taught her the most important lesson in clinical reasoning: the body lies, and vital signs lag. You'll learn: Why blood pressure is the LAST thing to drop in shock (not the first) How to recognize compensation before decompensation The early signs of hemorrhage students always miss Why "normal" vitals can mean your patient is dying How to trust your clinical assessment over the monitor A framework for recognizing shock in ANY patient (not just OB) Timestamps:  [0:00] She looked fine—but she was bleeding to death [3:00] Welcome to Think Like a Provider [3:30] Why students miss early hemorrhage [8:45] What compensation actually looks like [13:20] The crash: when the body can't keep up anymore [16:40] Why this is so hard to learn [19:00] Framework for recognizing compensation [22:30] How this applies beyond OB Clinical Pearls: Young, healthy patients can lose 30-40% of blood volume before BP drops Tachycardia + pale skin + thirst = early shock, even with normal BP Look at trends (HR 72 → 98 over 30 min) not snapshots The question isn't "Is this abnormal?" It's "Is this patient working too hard?" Hosts: Jennawè Whitley, NP-C, FNP-BC - Nurse Practitioner & Educator Alice - Engaging Educator & Student Advocate REFERENCES:  American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2023). Postpartum Hemorrhage:ACOG Practice Bulletin, Number 183. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 142(4), 974-997.  Evensen, A., Anderson, J. M., & Fontaine, P. (2021). Postpartum Hemorrhage: Prevention andTreatment. American Family Physician, 103(1), 34-43.  Pacheco, L. D., Saade, G. R., & Hankins, G. D. V. (2022). Advances in the management of postpartumhemorrhage. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, 226(2S), S1009-S1023.  Shields, L. E., Wiesner, S., Klein, C., et al. (2021). Use of Maternal Early Warning Trigger Tool reducesmaternal morbidity. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, 221(6), 527.e1-527.e6.  Main, E. K., Goffman, D., Scavone, B. M., et al. (2022). National Partnership for Maternal Safety:Consensus Bundle on Obstetric Hemorrhage. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 126(1), 155-162.  Support the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    21 min

  11. FEB 16

    Episode 1: How Providers Actually Think (And Why Nursing School Doesn't Teach It)

    Send us Fan Mail Join Jennawè and Alice as they break down the story of a patient who looked "totally fine"—until she wasn't. This episode reveals the critical difference between knowing facts and reasoning clinically, and why that difference can be life or death. You'll learn: Why nursing school teaches you what to know, but not how to thinkThe three core principles of provider-level reasoningHow to shift from memorization to clinical judgmentWhy "normal" vital signs can still mean your patient is crashingPractical strategies to start thinking like a provider todayTimestamps: [0:00] The patient who looked fine—but wasn't [2:30] Welcome to Think Like a Provider [3:00] Why nursing school doesn't teach reasoning [8:45] The shift from memorization to clinical thinking [14:20] What provider thinking actually looks like [18:30] Why this is so hard (and the mistake Jennawè made) [21:00] How to start thinking like a provider today Hosts: Jennawè Whitley, MSN, APRN NP-C, FNP-BC - Nurse Practitioner & EducatorAlice - Engaging Educator & Student AdvocateResources: Want to develop provider-level clinical reasoning? Join us inside Think Like a Provider: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider Free Guide: 5 Clinical Reasoning Mistakes Nurses Make: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/5-clinical-reasoning-mistakes-nurses-make- Connect:  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider  Tiktok: thinklikeaprovider Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider X: @LikeAProvider Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thinklikeaprovider/ Support the show Featured Resources: LPN/RN Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/think-like-a-nurse NP Students: https://stan.store/ThinkLikeAProvider/p/the-ultimate-np-transformation-bundle  Connect: Busy schedule, no time for bad nutrition. Equip keeps it clean and simple. Try it today and get 15% off → https://www.equipfoods.com/GUTHEALTH26 Think Like A Provider SKOOL Waiting List: https://tally.so/r/D4zrrR Learn to recognize compensation before it's too late. Join Think Like a Provider  FB Nurse Community:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinklikeaprovider  Instagram: @thinklikeaprovider Tiktok: Thinklikeaprovider Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ThinkLikeAProvider Email: info@capital-covenant.com

    19 min
  • 11 Episodes

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Think Like a Provider™ is the clinical reasoning podcast for nursing students, RNs, and NP students who are done memorizing and ready to understand. Hosted by Jennawè, A double board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner & clinical reasoning educator, this podcast teaches the mechanisms behind clinical thinking, not just the answers. Because Aristotle was right: knowing a thing means knowing its cause. And that principle is as true at the bedside as it was in ancient Athens. Every episode builds one of four core competencies: Clinical Reasoning — How to gather cues, build differentials from scratch, recognize patterns, prioritize red flags, and make decisions the way experienced providers actually make them. Not algorithms to memorize. Frameworks to reason with. NP Board Prep — Dedicated episodes for AANP (FNP-C) and ANCC (FNP-BC) candidates. Mechanism-based board prep that explains why the right answer is right — with explicit AANP vs ANCC callouts so you know exactly how each board tests the same clinical content differently. Neuroscience + Performance — The science of how your brain learns, retains, and performs under pressure. Working memory, pattern recognition, the amygdala hijack, procedural memory, and why the freeze during a code is biology, not weakness. Wellness + Clinical Performance — Nutrition, sleep, stress, and recovery framed as clinical performance science — not lifestyle content. Your brain is an organ. This pillar teaches you how to fuel it. If you are searching for how to think clinically, how to build a differential, how to prepare for the NCLEX or NP boards, how to stop freezing under pressure, or how to bridge pathophysiology to clinical decisions, this podcast gives you the mechanism behind every answer. The greatest clinicians in history reasoned their way to the truth. So will you. New episodes every week. All content is evidence-based and peer-reviewed. Educational only — not medical advice. Host: Jennawè Whitley, APRN, FNP-BC, NP-C | The Patho Queen 👑 Instagram & TikTok: @ThinkLikeAProvider Email: thinklikeaprovider@gmail.com

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