Nursing Uncharted

Afleveringen

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  Your First Travel Nursing Assignment: What No One Tells You (But Should) 04.08.2026 25min

  That first travel assignment sounds like a dream on paper: a new city, a fresh start, and the freedom to explore while doing the work you love. Then you actually arrive, and reality sets in. Where do you park? Will your badge work? Will anyone even remember your name by day three? In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, Audrey Tate, Manager of Recruitment at AMN Healthcare, sits down with two AMN travel nurses, Ilana and Paige, who are still early in their journeys. They have an honest and unfiltered conversation about what really happens during those first assignment weeks. They cover the nervous first days, the surprising amount of prep work that happens before you even step foot on the unit, and the small habits that help a brand-new city start to feel like home. If you're considering your first contract or you're still finding your footing, this conversation offers the kind of practical advice you won't find anywhere else.
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  The Real Story of Finding Your First Nursing Job with Stella Leiken 21.07.2026 36min

  Landing your first nursing job sounds straightforward after graduation—but for many new grads, the reality is far more difficult. In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, host Ann [BG1][CD2]sits down with Stella Leiken, a recent MSN graduate from the University of San Diego's Master's Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN), to talk honestly about what it's really like to enter the nursing workforce for the first time. Stella shares her journey from a psychology degree at UC Santa Barbara to an accelerated MEPN program, completing 192 hours of hands-on NICU preceptorship, and preparing to take the NCLEX. But the conversation quickly turns to something many nursing programs don't prepare you for: the search for that first nursing job. Despite an MSN, a strong clinical record, and glowing recommendations, Stella applied to nearly every NICU in California and was denied by all of them. She opens up about the emotional toll of repeated rejection, the nursing shortage paradox that leaves new grads competing fiercely for a shrinking number of residency spots, and why she made the decision to look out of state rather than settle for a specialty she didn't want. Her story is raw, honest, and relevant for any new grad nurse navigating today's competitive job market.
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  Skip the Scramble and Plan Your Winter Travel Nurse Assignments Now with Bianca Otero 23.06.2026 41min

  What if the secret to a stress-free holiday season started months in advance? In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, host Ann welcomes back Bianca O., Recruitment Director at AMN Healthcare, to unpack everything you need to know about winter seasonal orders. From snagging your dream location in California or New York to locking in your shift and holiday preferences, you'll learn why these highly coveted contracts move fast and how AMN Passport will put you first in line.
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  The Realities of Strike Nursing with Zach Klemo 09.06.2026 38min

  Have you ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes during a nursing strike? In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, we kick off a special mini-series with Zach C., Senior Director of Fulfillment for AMN Healthcare’s strike division[CD1][BG2]. Zach gives us real-life details of strike nursing assignments, from the rapid-fire logistics and our concierge-level support to the incredible camaraderie built on the floor. Whether you are curious about the true reasons behind strikes or how our cutting-edge technology, AMN Passport, puts control in your hands for these high-paying roles, this episode helps you see the bigger picture of patient care.
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  Travel Nurse Besties Take on the Peds ER 26.05.2026 35min

  In Part 2 of our special Nurses Month series on Nursing Uncharted, we welcome back pediatric ER travel nurses Jess and Sam. They dive deeper into their experiences traveling the country, sharing their experiences adapting to new ER environments, building rapid trust with anxious parents, and developing the emotional resilience required in pediatric care. You'll feel inspired by their camaraderie and equipped with the confidence to take your own emergency nursing skills to new facilities nationwide.
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  Finding Your "Why" and Celebrating Nurses Month with Jess and Sam 08.05.2026 25min

  Welcome to Episode 110 of Nursing Uncharted! Happy Nurses Month to all the incredible nurses out there. In this uplifting episode, Ann sits down with two exceptional pediatric ER travel nurses, Jess and Sam, to reflect on a foundation for all of us: our "Why." We all strive to feel capable and equipped to take on daily bedside challenges. Jess and Sam share their heartwarming personal journeys, reminding us how we can take control of our mindset and positively impact our patients' lives. We also dive into the history of Nurses Month, share some hilarious gift memories, and discuss how to support each other on the floor.
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  Set Yourself Up for Travel Nurse Housing Success with Natalie Dobrijevic 28.04.2026 42min

  Have you ever arrived at a travel assignment only to discover your new home is a nightmare? Do you want greater control of your living situation while on the road? In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, host Ann sits down with veteran travel nurse Natalie to share her wildest "Housing of Horror" stories. From snooping landlords to being locked out in bunny slippers, Natalie’s experiences will make you laugh and leave you equipped to take on life's challenges. You'll feel empowered to set boundaries, to lean on our nursing community, and to find the safe haven we deserve.
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  Travel Nurses Forge a New Path 14.04.2026 38min

  We all desire greater control of our nursing careers. To feel empowered, capable, and equipped to take on our daily challenges, we must boldly embrace new experiences. In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, we discuss the inspiring journeys of travel nurses stepping into the unknown. Join us as we sit down with incredible NICU travel nurses, Akila and Jazmine, who share their powerful stories of helping open a new maternal health hospital in Philadelphia. They share the cultural shifts of travel nursing, the fierce bonds formed in the trenches, and the need to advocate for our patients. How can we better support marginalized communities? How do we push for systemic change in our hospitals? Released in alignment with Black Maternal Health Awareness Week, this episode highlights the realities and disparities in Black maternal health. Listening will leave you optimistic and empowered to raise your voice, take charge of your practice, and make a lasting impact.
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  Finding Positivity in Nursing with Laurel Prince 31.03.2026 24min

  Welcome back to Nursing Uncharted! In this episode, host Ann reconnects with the inspiring Laurel Prince, a returning guest who brings her unique perspective on navigating the challenges of nursing and life. Together, they discuss the power of embracing change, finding positivity in difficult moments, and staying true to yourself.
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  Embracing Change in Modern Nursing with Taniqua Mighty 17.03.2026 39min

  Nursing is changing fast, and new degrees, more travel gigs, and bedside tech are all part of the ride. In this episode, we chat with neurosurgery nurse Taniqua Mighty about how to roll with these changes, spot new opportunities, and stay connected to what matters in nursing. If you’re ready to grow in your career and rethink what’s possible, this one is for you.
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  Finding Your "Why" & The Journey from Travel to Staff Nursing with Alex Craft 17.02.2026 28min

  In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, we sit down with Alex, a dedicated nurse with nearly 12 years of experience, from rehab facilities to Level 1 trauma centers. Alex joins us to share her personal and inspiring journey. She opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped her career and the "why" behind her passion for nursing. Alex's emotional story begins with how her mother's battle with stage 4 lung cancer influenced her decision to enter the field. She recalls the compassion shown by her mother's oncology nurses—not just during treatment, but even after her passing—and how that level of care became the standard she strives for today. Alex also discusses her transition into travel nursing during the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges of balancing single motherhood with a demanding career, and her decision to plant roots as a staff nurse. This is a candid look at the life of a traveler, the importance of a supportive recruiter, and the beauty of finding a hospital unit that feels like family. Alex’s story of resilience, advocacy, and finding joy in the midst of chaos is sure to resonate.
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  The Importance of Nurse-Recruiter Relationships with Audrey Tate 04.02.2026 1u

  Audrey Tate, Senior Travel Nurse Recruiter at AMN Healthcare, joins us to discuss the dynamics of a nurse-recruiter relationship. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of healthcare staffing, the tools available to support nurses on the road, and the importance of recognizing the unique value each traveler brings to the bedside. In this episode, nurses will gain information to build a successful career on their own terms.
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  Manifesting Your Best Year Yet 21.01.2026 22min

  Welcome back to another season of Nursing Uncharted! We are kicking off 2026 with high energy and reflection. In this season premiere, our host takes a moment to look back on the lessons learned in 2025 and sets a powerful new intention for the year ahead. This episode moves beyond the typical, fleeting New Year's resolutions like dieting or hitting the gym. Instead, we explore a deeper theme for 2026: Manifestation, paired specifically with the commitment to put in the work.
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  Embracing Change and Moving Forward 19.12.2025 21min

  In this solo episode, Ann wraps up 2025 by looking back on a year filled with growth, change, and plenty of new experiences. Her word for the year, "embrace," set the tone for everything she did—good, bad, or in between. From going back to her favorite travel nursing assignment to making new friends and tackling the ups and downs of adulting, Ann shares what she learned along the way. This episode is all about finding the good, holding onto meaningful connections, and focusing on the little wins. Ann is a NICU travel nurse and the voice behind Nursing Uncharted. With more than six years on the road, she brings real stories and straight talk to nurses everywhere. Ann loves connecting with the nursing community and sharing both the highs and the challenges of the job.
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  Part 2: Unlocking Mobility – A Nurse’s Guide to Fitness and Wellness with Hailey Abell 11.11.2025 25min

  In this second part of the series of “Unlocking Mobility,” we dive into the critical role of mobility and fitness in the nursing profession. Hailey Abell, a physical trainer dedicated to helping nurses prioritize their health, shares practical tips and routines designed to fit seamlessly into busy schedules. This episode highlights the importance of breathing techniques, core strength, and self-love, showing how intentional self-care can enhance personal well-being and the ability to care for others.
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  Part 1: Get Moving – A Nurse’s Guide to Fitness and Wellness with Hailey Abell 28.10.2025 30min

  In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, we dive into the critical role physical health plays in the lives of nurses. Hailey Abell, a personal trainer with a passion for fitness, shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to becoming a fitness advocate. Together, we explore the mental and physical benefits of staying active, practical strategies for incorporating fitness into a nurse's busy schedule, and the importance of body awareness in preventing injuries. Hailey also breaks down foundational movement patterns and offers actionable advice to help nurses prioritize their health and well-being, even amidst the chaos of daily life.
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  Top Takeaways from TravCon 2025 with Nicole Obra 14.10.2025 35min

  In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, Nicole Obra, Director of Recruitment at AMN Healthcare, joins host Ann to discuss their experiences and highlights at TravCon 2025. Together, they discuss the vibrant atmosphere, the importance of networking, and the value of face-to-face interactions in fostering collaboration and understanding within the travel nursing community. The episode also highlights AMN Healthcare's innovative contributions to the conference and the significance of clinician feedback in shaping the future of travel nursing. Personal stories and shared experiences take center stage, showcasing the inspiring and supportive nature of the nursing community.
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  Navigating the New Landscape of Travel Nursing with Bianca Otero 30.09.2025 47min

  In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, we explore the evolving world of travel nursing, with a spotlight on the recruitment process and the lasting effects of COVID-19 on nursing demand. Bianca Otero, a Director of Recruitment at AMN Healthcare, shares her expertise on high-need contracts, the critical role of compensation, and the dynamics of the nurse-recruiter relationship. The conversation highlights the importance of quality nursing care, the unique challenges faced by travel nurses, and the shifting priorities in the nursing profession as it adapts to a post-COVID landscape.
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  Shifting with Life Seasons with Ann King 16.09.2025 15min

  In this heartfelt solo episode, Ann takes listeners on a reflective journey through her six transformative years as a travel nurse. She dives into the personal and professional growth she’s experienced, the freedom and flexibility that travel nursing offers, and the lessons learned from navigating different life seasons. Ann opens up about the importance of mental health, finding a sense of home, and embracing change as a catalyst for growth. Her insights and stories will inspire nurses and anyone seeking to grow through life’s changing chapters.
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  From Jamaica to the USA: An International Travel Nurse’s Journey with Camille Ferraro 02.09.2025 38min

  In this episode of Nursing Uncharted, host Ann connects with Camille Ferraro, an international travel nurse from Jamaica, to uncover her inspiring journey in the U.S. healthcare system. Camille shares her experiences navigating cultural differences in nursing practices, the importance of patient education, and the honor of receiving the Daisy Award for her compassionate care. The conversation delves into the realities of the opioid crisis, the evolution of charting systems, and the power of nurses supporting one another. Camille’s story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in nursing, offering valuable insights and encouragement for those looking to grow in their careers.