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On This Episode:
What does it really take to make it through CRNA school, and what happens after the boards are over? Today, Kevin reconnects with former classmates Madison Martin and Nicole Strickland to reflect on their long journeys to becoming CRNAs. Every path to an anesthesia career is unique, and the joy is often found in the process of growth and learning. This episode will give you a candid, first-hand look at the challenges and opportunities that await you.
Madison, a 35-year-old nurse from Atlanta, shares her early aspirations of becoming a veterinarian before realizing her passion lay in healthcare. After years of working as a MICU nurse and balancing travel nursing, she found her calling in nurse anesthesia. Nicole, a 37-year-old mother of two from South Carolina, recounts her unconventional path to becoming a CRNA. Initially drawn to the arts, she found her way into healthcare through a surgical tech program.
From unexpected career pivots and family sacrifices to the intense emotional toll of clinicals and board prep, this is a powerful testament to perseverance, support systems, and the excitement that finally comes after crossing the finish line.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
✨ Real stories behind why each guest chose the CRNA path
📚 How to handle rejection in the application cycle (and why “not yet” isn’t “no”)
🧠 Board prep tips: what actually worked, what didn’t, and how it felt
❤️ Balancing family, grief, and life outside of school
🌍 Life goals after graduation: from travel dreams to clinical confidence
Last call! Apply to be on the Grade 1 View Season Two (2026) Host Team!
Applications due November 1, 2025. Applicants must be current CRNA students/residents with a minimum of 12 months remaining in their program.
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"Don't give up if it doesn't happen the first time or the second time or the third time. If it's something that you really want and you dedicate yourself to it, don't give up on that."
- Nicole Strickland, CRNA
