CRNA School Prep Academy Podcast

Jenny Finnell
  • 4.9 (107)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
CRNA School Prep Academy Podcast

Ever wish you had a CRNA mentor plugged into the community who has helped THOUSANDS of nurses succeed? The CSPA community is committed to helping you not only gain acceptance into CRNA school but providing support all the way through graduation day! Tune in, get inspired, and get ready to discover why more than 6,000+ nurses turn to CRNA School Prep Academy for guidance regarding all things that the road to CRNA entails. From financial planning, interview styles, ICU experience, anesthesia cases, stress management, study tips, practice settings and so much more; whether you’re a nursing student who is exploring the possibility of becoming a CRNA, an ICU nurse actively pursuing this career path, or a current Nurse Anesthesia Resident looking for extra guidance while in school, each episode is designed to help you take immediate action on the most important strategies for planning, implementation, and achieving your dream of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. Who is this podcast for: Nurses who are researching the requirements for CRNA programs, CRNA school admissions, how to become a CRNA and what does a CRNA do? Other Areas of Focus: How To Become A CRNA CRNA School Requirements What Does A CRNA Do? Shadowing A CRNA Best ICU Experience For CRNA School Standing Out As A CRNA Applicant Preparing For CRNA School Interview Writing Your CRNA School Personal Statement Preparing For CRNA School Improving GPA For CRNA School Overview Of CRNA Programs Top CRNA Schools Becoming A CRNA Intensive And Critical Care Nursing Insights Certified Nurse Anesthetist Role CRNA Interview Preparation Getting Into CRNA School CRNA School Expenses Cost Of CRNA Schooling CRNA Application Process Steps To Become A CRNA A Day In The Life Of A CRNA Questions To Ask CRNA Programs CV Preparation For CRNA School Financing CRNA School Writing A CRNA School Essay CRNA School Interview Questions Finding A CRNA Mentor How To Stand Out For CRNA School Overcoming Dismissal From CRNA School Nurse Anesthetist Shadowing Opportunities

  1. Should You Take The GRE For CRNA School? Plus Get a FREE Magoosh Practice Test!

    NOV 13

    Should You Take The GRE For CRNA School? Plus Get a FREE Magoosh Practice Test!

    Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community Are you wondering whether the GRE is necessary for your CRNA school application, or if it’s worth the time and investment? Curious about the GRE test itself, what are average scores and what are competitive scores? In this episode, Jenny Finnell, founder of CRNA School Prep Academy and a practicing CRNA, breaks down everything you need to know about the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) in the context of CRNA school requirements. Jenny explores whether the GRE is still required by programs, how to achieve a competitive score, and the importance of analytical writing for CRNA school applicants— a skill increasingly valued by CRNA programs. She dives into program-specific GPA requirements, explaining when the GRE might be required and how schools vary in their expectations. She also shares insights into competitive test scores plus tips on improving your own GRE scores, especially in key areas like verbal and quantitative reasoning. Plus, find out how to get a free GRE practice test from Magoosh, with real test questions to gauge your performance before the actual exam! In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why some CRNA programs require the GRE and why requirements can often differ.What a “competitive” GRE score looks like today.How the GRE’s shorter format impacts your study strategy.Tips for tackling the analytical writing and quantitative sections.How a strong GRE score can balance a lower GPA. Whether you’re applying to CRNA school soon or just starting your nurse anesthesia journey, this episode is packed with actionable advice and tools to set you up for success. Tune in now to master the GRE and elevate your CRNA application! Get Your FREE Magoosh GRE Practice Test: https://gre.magoosh.com/practice_tests/free/?referrer_code=AS68M4 Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community Get access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped thousands of nurses accelerate their CRNA success. Become a member of CRNA School Prep Academy: https://cspaedu.com/join Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com Join our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community

    26 min
  2. Professional Roles & Leadership for Nurse Anesthesia w. Dr. Melissa Eisenhauer, University of Evansville Nurse Anesthesia Program

    OCT 30

    Professional Roles & Leadership for Nurse Anesthesia w. Dr. Melissa Eisenhauer, University of Evansville Nurse Anesthesia Program

    Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community From understanding the rich history of nurse anesthesia to learning how to advocate for the profession, Dr. Eisenhauer offers invaluable insights that will help you stand out in your career as a nurse anesthetist. In today's episode of the CSPA podcast, Dr. Melissa Eisenhauer, CRNA and educator, takes you on a journey through the essential leadership skills and professional roles that every aspiring CRNA needs to succeed. You'll learn why leadership is crucial in anesthesia, how to get involved in professional organizations like the AANA, and why advocacy matters—both for your patients and your career growth. This episode also covers leadership opportunities within national committees and the steps to stay involved and proactive in the nurse anesthesia community. Whether you're just beginning your CRNA journey or looking to enhance your leadership skills, this episode provides actionable takeaways to empower you on your path to success. Gain clarity on your next steps as a future CRNA, and learn how to shape your career into a leadership role in this dynamic field. Let's dive in! Need Interview Prep Help In A Hurry? Fast-Track Your CRNA School Interview Prep with our CRNA Interview Crash Course! https://www.cspaedu.com/4wotmlds Get access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped thousands of nurses accelerate their CRNA success. Become a member of CRNA School Prep Academy: https://cspaedu.com/join Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com Learn More about the University of Evansville Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice Program: https://www.evansville.edu/majors/nurse-anesthesia-program/ Join our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community

    33 min
  3. Going to CRNA School w. Credit Card Debt- What You Need to Know

    OCT 16

    Going to CRNA School w. Credit Card Debt- What You Need to Know

    Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community Tackle the daunting issue of going to CRNA school with credit card debt! Jenny Finnell shares the financial burden it can create and offers practical advice for aspiring CRNAs to navigate this challenge. Key points covered include: The high APR (Annual Percentage Rate) associated with credit cards and the danger of making just the minimum payments.A financial simulation that demonstrates how credit card debt can balloon over time while in CRNA school.The importance of paying off existing credit card debt before starting CRNA school. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone considering CRNA school, especially those with existing credit card debt. By understanding the financial implications and taking proactive steps, future CRNAs can set themselves up for success. Fast-Track your CRNA success with the CSPA 6-Month Intensive. Get CRNA Faculty Coaching, Access to Exclusive Live Events and more. Click Here: https://www.cspaedu.com/sixmonthintensive Get access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped thousands of nurses accelerate their CRNA success. Become a member of CRNA School Prep Academy:https://cspaedu.com/join Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com Join our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community Fast-Track your CRNA success with the CSPA 6-Month Intensive. Get CRNA Faculty Coaching, Access to Exclusive Live Events and more. Click Here: https://www.cspaedu.com/sixmonthintensive

    30 min
  4. Ketamine: Uses, Effects & Mechanism of Action w. Dr. Kelly Elmore, Mary Baldwin University

    OCT 2

    Ketamine: Uses, Effects & Mechanism of Action w. Dr. Kelly Elmore, Mary Baldwin University

    Join our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community FREE! CRNA School Interview Prep Guide: https://www.cspaedu.com/uc9a5ih4 Ketamine: A Unique Anesthetic with Diverse Applications Dive deep into the world of ketamine, exploring its history, pharmacology, mechanism of action, clinical uses, and side effects. Dr. Kelly Elmore, Assistant Program Director at Mary Baldwin University's Nurse Anesthesiology Program, guides listeners through this fascinating drug, highlighting its potential for anesthesia, pain management, and even mental health treatment. Targeting NMDA Receptors for Dissociative Anesthesia Ketamine is classified as a dissociative anesthetic, distinct from depressant anesthetics like propofol. It primarily works by blocking NMDA receptors in the central nervous system, thereby reducing excitatory signals and producing profound analgesia and amnesia. This mechanism also contributes to the characteristic dissociative state, where patients may appear detached from their environment and experience hallucinations. Beyond Anesthesia: Exploring Ketamine's Diverse Uses Beyond its role in anesthesia, ketamine offers a range of benefits in various clinical settings: Pain Management: Ketamine's analgesic properties make it valuable for treating acute and chronic pain conditions, including neuropathic pain, complex regional pain syndrome, and post-surgical pain.Mental Health: Emerging research suggests ketamine's potential in treating treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. Low-dose ketamine infusions combined with psychotherapy have shown promise in these areas in the form of ketamine-assisted therapy.Emergency Medicine: Due to its bronchodilatory effects and ability to maintain airway patency, ketamine is a valuable tool in emergency departments for managing patients with respiratory distress. Important Considerations for Ketamine Use While ketamine offers numerous advantages, it's crucial to be aware of its potential drawbacks: Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, and hallucinations are common side effects, particularly at higher doses.Abuse Potential: Ketamine's popularity as a street drug necessitates caution, especially in outpatient mental health settings.Cardiac Effects: In critically ill patients with depleted catecholamines, ketamine can worsen cardiovascular depression.Mental Health Risks: Ketamine may exacerbate symptoms in some mental health disorders. S-Ketamine: A Promising Option for Treatment-Resistant Depression The FDA-approved S-ketamine nasal spray offers a new avenue for treating treatment-resistant depression. This medication is typically used alongside other oral antidepressants. Conclusion: A Multifaceted Drug with Ongoing Research Ketamine's unique properties make it a valuable tool for CRNAs across various healthcare settings. Ongoing research continues to explore its potential benefits and refine its use for optimal patient care. Need Interview Prep Help In A Hurry? Fast-Track Your CRNA School Interview Prep with our CRNA Interview Crash Course! https://www.cspaedu.com/4wotmlds Get access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped 1,000s of nurses accelerate their CRNA success. Become a member of CRNA School Prep Academy: https://cspaedu.com/join Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com Attend an upcoming Virtual Information Session with Mary Baldwin University Nurse Anethesiology Program: https://marybaldwin.edu/programs/nurse-anesthesiology-dnp/ Join our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty

    26 min
  5. CRNA School Interview Trends 2024

    SEP 18

    CRNA School Interview Trends 2024

    FREE CRNA School Clinical Interview Study Guide: https://www.cspaedu.com/2qnt8c4c FREE! CRNA School Interview Prep Guide: https://www.cspaedu.com/uc9a5ih4 What are CRNA Interviews like in 2024 and beyond? Learn what’s new in CRNA school interviews so you can interview with confidence! Jenny covers everything from Emotional Intelligence (EI) and personality tests to what it's like having your interview stretched over several days. Plus, get tips on how to nail both virtual and face-to-face interviews. Whether you’re planning to apply soon or have already landed your interview invite, this episode has all the advice you need to prepare to impress the admissions committee and gain that "Yes!" acceptance. Make sure to listen all the way through for a FREE CRNA clinical interview study guide and a helpful list of common CRNA interview questions—perfect for anyone aiming to become a Nurse Anesthetist. Tune in to learn how you can ace your CRNA school interview! Need Interview Prep Help In A Hurry? Fast-Track Your CRNA School Interview Prep with our CRNA Interview Crash Course! https://www.cspaedu.com/4wotmlds Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community Get access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped 1,000s of nurses accelerate their CRNA success. Become a member of CRNA School Prep Academy: https://cspaedu.com/join Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com FREE! CRNA School Interview Prep Guide: https://www.cspaedu.com/uc9a5ih4 Need Interview Prep Help In A Hurry? Fast-Track Your CRNA School Interview Prep with our CRNA Interview Crash Course! https://www.cspaedu.com/4wotmlds

    22 min
  6. What You Need To Know About Paying for CRNA School

    SEP 4

    What You Need To Know About Paying for CRNA School

    FREE! The Most Affordable CRNA Schools Tuition Guide: https://www.cspaedu.com/spmhqyoc Get ready to deep dive into the financial challenges faced by students heading into Nurse Anesthesia programs! Today, Jenny welcomes back Natalie, who specializes in helping nurse anesthesia students navigate the complex financial landscape of CRNA schooling, as shares invaluable advice on managing costs, optimizing financial aid, and preparing for the financial pressures of CRNA school. She also offers a detailed exploration of cost of attendance, loan management, and alternative funding sources, ensuring students understand how to access and manage funds responsibly. Her expertise provides you with practical strategies for covering tuition and living expenses, while also considering the broader financial implications of student loans and life after CRNA school. By tuning in, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of how to approach the financial aspects of CRNA school confidently, reducing stress and setting yourself up for success both academically and professionally. Whether you’re newly accepted to CRNA school, currently applying, planning your best path or even approaching graduation, this episode is packed with essential financial guidance tailored to your unique educational journey. Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community Thousands of nurses have gained CRNA school acceptance with CRNA School Prep Academy. Join today for access to all of the tools proven to accelerate your CRNA success! Click here: https://cspaedu.com/join Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com Connect with Natalie: https://connect.thrivent.com/roots-financial-group FREE! The Most Affordable CRNA Schools Tuition Guide: https://www.cspaedu.com/spmhqyoc

    53 min
  7. What Is ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) w. Dr. Jeremy Heiner, EdD, CRNA, FAANA

    AUG 21

    What Is ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) w. Dr. Jeremy Heiner, EdD, CRNA, FAANA

    Join our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community FREE! 8 Steps to Becoming a CRNA: https://www.cspaedu.com/3m9jgffp Join us for this enlightening episode of the CSPA Podcast as Dr. Jeremy Heiner, an esteemed educator with over 16 years of experience, dives deep into the complexities of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Unpacking the evolution, pathophysiology, and modern treatment approaches of ARDS, today’s special guest episode offers invaluable insights for ICU nurses and nurse anesthesia providers. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a nursing student eager to expand your critical care knowledge, this episode is packed with essential information that will enhance your understanding and skills in managing ARDS. Tune in for a masterclass in respiratory care and gain practical knowledge that could be crucial in your next shift in the ICU. Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community Thousands of nurses have gained CRNA school acceptance with CRNA School Prep Academy. Join today for access to all of the tools proven to accelerate your CRNA success! Click here: https://cspaedu.com/join Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com Dr. Heiner has an extensive background in clinical anesthesia and is the co-author of several textbooks including Emergency Management in Anesthesia and Critical Care (EMAC), Critical Events in Anesthesia, & Nurse Anesthesia, the main textbook used by a majority of Nurse Anesthesia Programs. Learn More about The Nurse Anesthesia: https://thenurseanesthesia.com/ Join our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community

    28 min
  8. Perioperative Fluid Management With Dr. Carly Mitchell, Bellarmine University

    AUG 7

    Perioperative Fluid Management With Dr. Carly Mitchell, Bellarmine University

    Join our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community FREE! CRNA School Interview Prep Guide: https://www.cspaedu.com/uc9a5ih4 Hello, future CRNAs! Get ready for an exciting episode with Dr. Carly Mitchell, the founding program administrator for the Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Institute Program at Bellarmine University. Since March 2022, Dr. Mitchell has been serving as the Chief Nurse Anesthetist in an obstetric anesthesia department. With her expertise in improving nurse institute preceptorship, obstetric and neuraxial anesthesia, and women's health and wellness, Dr. Mitchell brings a wealth of knowledge to her dual roles. In this episode, she’ll be sharing invaluable insights on perioperative fluid management. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field. Tune in now!   Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community Thousands of nurses have gained CRNA school acceptance with CRNA School Prep Academy. Join today for access to all of the tools proven to accelerate your CRNA success! Click here: https://cspaedu.com/join Get CRNA School insights sent straight to your inbox! Sign up for the CSPA email newsletter: https://www.cspaedu.com/podcast-email Book a mock interview, resume or personal statement critique, transcript review and more: www.teachrn.com The Bellarmine University Doctor of Nursing Practice-Nurse Anesthesia Program is designed for post-BSN students seeking doctoral preparation for advanced practice as a Nurse Anesthetist. The curriculum provides students with the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to care for diverse patient populations across the lifespan. Graduates of the program are prepared to assume clinical leadership roles in health-related organizations to improve systems of care, patient outcomes, and quality of care. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Certification Exam (NCE) offered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA).   Learn More about the Bellarmine University Doctor of Nursing Practice-Nurse Anesthesia Program: https://www.bellarmine.edu/lansing/nursing/graduate/dnp-na Join our Free CSPA Community! Connect with a network of Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors here: https://www.cspaedu.com/community Get into CRNA School- Guaranteed! Start the CSPA 12-Month Intensive Today! Click Here: https://www.cspaedu.com/meblfkto Need Interview Prep Help In A Hurry? Fast-Track Your CRNA School Interview Prep with our CRNA Interview Crash Course! https://www.cspaedu.com/4wotmlds

    29 min
See All (182)

Trailer

4.9
out of 5
107 Ratings

About

Ever wish you had a CRNA mentor plugged into the community who has helped THOUSANDS of nurses succeed? The CSPA community is committed to helping you not only gain acceptance into CRNA school but providing support all the way through graduation day! Tune in, get inspired, and get ready to discover why more than 6,000+ nurses turn to CRNA School Prep Academy for guidance regarding all things that the road to CRNA entails. From financial planning, interview styles, ICU experience, anesthesia cases, stress management, study tips, practice settings and so much more; whether you’re a nursing student who is exploring the possibility of becoming a CRNA, an ICU nurse actively pursuing this career path, or a current Nurse Anesthesia Resident looking for extra guidance while in school, each episode is designed to help you take immediate action on the most important strategies for planning, implementation, and achieving your dream of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. Who is this podcast for: Nurses who are researching the requirements for CRNA programs, CRNA school admissions, how to become a CRNA and what does a CRNA do? Other Areas of Focus: How To Become A CRNA CRNA School Requirements What Does A CRNA Do? Shadowing A CRNA Best ICU Experience For CRNA School Standing Out As A CRNA Applicant Preparing For CRNA School Interview Writing Your CRNA School Personal Statement Preparing For CRNA School Improving GPA For CRNA School Overview Of CRNA Programs Top CRNA Schools Becoming A CRNA Intensive And Critical Care Nursing Insights Certified Nurse Anesthetist Role CRNA Interview Preparation Getting Into CRNA School CRNA School Expenses Cost Of CRNA Schooling CRNA Application Process Steps To Become A CRNA A Day In The Life Of A CRNA Questions To Ask CRNA Programs CV Preparation For CRNA School Financing CRNA School Writing A CRNA School Essay CRNA School Interview Questions Finding A CRNA Mentor How To Stand Out For CRNA School Overcoming Dismissal From CRNA School Nurse Anesthetist Shadowing Opportunities

Information

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada