Getting into CRNA school isn’t a straight line — and many applicants face rejection, waitlists, and the challenges of a lower GPA before finally reaching their goal. From preparing for interviews, to navigating NursingCAS, to building resilience after setbacks, the RN to CRNA journey requires persistence and strategy.

In this episode of the CSPA Podcast, Jenny shares real Q&A from nurses just like you, covering CRNA interview prep, GPA requirements, how to strengthen your NursingCAS application, and how to keep moving forward after rejection or waitlist status.

These real conversations will leave you encouraged and equipped with practical next steps on your path to becoming a CRNA.

Episode Highlights:

• How to prepare for CRNA interviews and CRNA mock interviews

• GPA requirements and strategies for applicants with a lower GPA

• NursingCAS tips and what admissions committees look for

• How to bounce back from rejection or waitlist status

• Encouragement and success stories from those on the RN to CRNA path

Want more CRNA insights? Sign up for a FREE LIVE Q&A Session "Stand Out & Get In" to learn everything you need to know about getting into CRNA school.

Want Guaranteed CRNA School Admission? Learn More about the CSPA Money Back Guarantee here: https://community.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/join-cspa

Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs, and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors who are ready to support you. Get real answers and expert guidance in a welcoming space that's free from misinformation and negativity. You don't have to do this alone! Join Now: https://www.cspaedu.com/community

Starting out in the ICU as a brand-new nurse is never easy—especially when you’re balancing life as a dad, navigating the burn unit, and staring down a 3.0 GPA on your way to CRNA.

In this episode of the CSPA Podcast, Jenny sits down with Jacob, an experienced ICU and travel nurse, to share his inspiring journey from burn trauma to CRNA school acceptance, recorded live at NTI 2025 in New Orleans.

Whether you’re an aspiring CRNA worried about your GPA, a nurse trying to gain confidence in the ICU, or simply looking for encouragement on your path, Jacob’s story is filled with practical lessons and honest insights to keep you moving forward.

In this episode, we discuss:

-Jacob’s journey starting out as a new nurse in the burn ICU

-How he built confidence by learning from techs, colleagues, and mentors

-How he overcame the challenge of a 3.0 GPA to get into CRNA school

-The role of resilience, mentorship, and emotional intelligence in interviews

-Why investing in support and preparation made all the difference

Want Guaranteed CRNA School Admission? Learn More about the CSPA 6 and 12-Month Intensives Here: https://community.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/join-cspa

Want more insights? Sign up for my FREE LIVE Q&A Session "Stand Out & Get In" to learn everything you need to know about getting into CRNA school.

Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs, and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors who are ready to support you. Get real answers and expert guidance in a welcoming space that's free from misinformation and negativity. You don't have to do this alone! Join Now: https://www.cspaedu.com/community

Cardiogenic Shock: Clinical Insights with Nicole Kupchik, MN, RN, CCNS, CCRN-CMC, PCCN

In this special episode, Dr. Richard Wilson, DNAP, CRNA sits down with critical care educator Nicole Kupchik to unpack practical bedside considerations for managing cardiogenic shock in ICU patients. From vasopressors to mechanical support, this discussion offers real-world insight into how seasoned clinicians think through this complex condition.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Early signs of cardiogenic shock and why timing matters
• Pros and limitations of Impella, balloon pump, and VA ECMO
• Key hemodynamic markers like CPO and PAPI
• Clinical considerations when using norepinephrine, milrinone, dobutamine, and more
• The balancing act of fluid management in left vs. right ventricular failure

Recorded live at NTI 2025 in New Orleans—expect a more candid format and a touch of background conference buzz.

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

FREE! CRNA School Interview Prep Guide: https://www.cspaedu.com/uc9a5ih4

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

Want Guaranteed CRNA School Admission? Learn More about the CSPA 12-Month Intensive Here: https://www.cspaedu.com/meblfkto