Before we share anything, please note that this is an emotional episode. Not only was the journey to a DNP a long and arduous one for Sharon with plenty of highs and lows that we’ll discuss, but we begin the show with heartbreaking news about Sharon’s granddaughter, Emma Kate. It’s tough to discuss but it’s important for the healing process and we appreciate everyone for the support along the way.
Click the timestamps below to help you navigate through the many topics we discussed.
On This Episode:
Today’s show won’t feature a guest but we think this conversation will still benefit a lot of people, including both Jeremy and Sharon.
As you’ve heard over the past couple of years, Sharon went back to school at Yale to get her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and it’s been a journey full of ups and downs. Now that she’s achieved her goal(!), we thought it would be great to share the good and bad from this experience to help give CRNAs an accurate idea of what to expect.
Sharon's tattoo honoring her granddaughter, Emma Kate
Before we do that, though, we have some very heartbreaking news to share with friends and listeners. Some of you might have heard by now, but Sharon’s sweet granddaughter, Emma Kate, recently passed away shortly after she came into the world. As you can imagine, it’s been a difficult and emotional time for the family but we wanted to address it to help the healing process.
If you’d like to help us remember Emma Kate, the Halos are hosting their 11th Annual Memorial Walk on August 14, 2021 and donations are welcome here.
As you get started on the episode, keep an ear out for these topics:
- What made Sharon decide to go get her DNP
- The why behind her drive.
- The defining moment of her career that really opened her eyes.
- The pros and cons of distance learning and taking online classes.
- Why should someone go get their DNP?
- What words of wisdom does Sharon have for people considering this?
- The tough times during this journey
- Sharon has a final message for younger CRNAs that are considering a DNP.
Check it out the interview at the top of the page and use the timestamps to help you navigate through the many topics we discussed.
2:25 – Plan for the show today
3:32 – Heartbreaking loss for Sharon’s family
8:39 – Sharon’s journey to get her DNP
13:01 – The why behind her decision
15:28 – Pros and cons of distance learning
18:34 – Why should you go back to get your DNP?
22:54 – Words of wisdom
26:57 – Getting overwhelmed through this journey
32:46 – Looking back on the process
35:45 – Final message to the younger CRNAs
Earn MAC Dev Credit by listening to this episode
I learned so much. I thought that I had been around for a long time and I knew a good deal, but there’s still so much to learn. And I enjoy learning and I think by and large, most CRNAs do. They’re continuous learners.
-Sharon Pearce, DNP, CRNA
