We have become obsessed with arriving.

We live in a world that celebrates degrees, promotions, big houses, big dreams...anything that makes a sexy highlight reel. Or anything that shows that we are productive.

But what if the greatest work isn't in getting there, but preparing to carry what you've been asking for.

In today's episode, I'm sharing one of the most personal messages I've ever recorded.

We're talking about the hidden danger of settling, why disruption is often an invitation instead of a punishment, and how growth isn't about becoming more impressive—it's about increasing your capacity to be where you are well.

Using lessons from anesthesia, freediving, leadership, and my own journey, we'll explore:

• Why comfort quietly steals your calling.
• The surprising connection between pressure and expansion.
• What carbon dioxide tolerance can teach us about anxiety and resilience.
• Why we mistake discomfort for failure when we're actually adapting.
• How radical ownership creates radical freedom.
• Why you don't simply arrive at purpose—you train for it.

Whether you're navigating CRNA school, healing from disappointment, or simply wondering why life feels so hard right now, this episode is an invitation to stop surviving and start becoming.

Because someday people won't need your perfection, they'll need the presence only you can bring.

And the version of you who can carry that responsibility is being built today.

You don't just arrive. You train for it.

Have you ever felt like life completely derailed your plans?

Like the dream was finally within reach, only for everything to fall apart?

This may be one of the most powerful conversations we've ever had on The Mindful CRNA Podcast.

In this deeply honest episode, Amanda sits down with current NAR Shana Dagny—a former professional actress, singer, competitive athlete, ICU nurse, and one of the most resilient humans you'll ever meet.

Shauna's journey to CRNA school is anything but traditional.

Born in the Philippines and then living in the world of theater and performance, she spent years chasing success on stages and enduring rejection after rejection in pursuit of her acting dream. Nursing orginally was the side hustle and how she put food on the table. Eventually though, nursing became the place where she rediscovered her joy and her CRNA calling.

But just as she was preparing for her next chapter, her health took an unexpected turn.

After developing severe asthma and complications from long-term steroid treatment, Shauna faced devastating diagnoses including Addison's Disease and Cushing's Syndrome. Within weeks, she gained over 80 pounds, became largely bedridden, lost her athletic abilities, and was forced to defer her CRNA school acceptance.

Many people would have stopped there but Shana didn't. Instead, she rebuilt her life one day at a time.

In this episode, we discuss:

✨ Handling rejection and disappointment without losing yourself

✨ Why failure may be one of your greatest teachers

✨ The surprising lessons acting taught her about CRNA interviews

✨ Learning to stop seeking validation from others

✨ What it means to intentionally pursue discomfort & failure

✨ Building confidence through action instead of certainty

✨ Navigating chronic illness while pursuing ambitious goals

✨ The mindset that helped her get accepted into CRNA school

✨ Why "you don't need more strength—you need fewer excuses"

✨ Trusting God when the path forward doesn't make sense

This conversation is a reminder that courage isn't the absence of fear, It's showing up anyway.

Whether you're applying to CRNA school, currently in school, facing rejection, battling health challenges, or simply navigating a difficult season of life, Shana's story will challenge you to rethink what is possible.

The greatest victories aren't found in perfect circumstances but in the willingness to keep going.

🎙️ Listen now and prepare to be inspired.

Delayed Dreams and Unshaken Purpose. Delays don't have to take you off your path but can become the very things that keep you grounded in it.

LINKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:

Shana's IG: How to Find Happiness Experiment

Flow Anesthesia on IG

Commercials Shana has done

How to Find Happiness Experiment on YT

Shana Broadway Musical Theatre

What does it really take to get into—and through—CRNA school?

In this episode of The Mindful CRNA Podcast, Amanda sits down with CRNA and content creator Bilal Mohammad for an honest conversation about leadership, perseverance, social media, and the realities of becoming a nurse anesthetist.

Bilal shares his unique journey from aspiring aerospace engineer to CVICU nurse to CRNA, including how he was accepted into CRNA school with just 2 years of nursing experience.

Together, they tackle some of the biggest topics facing aspiring CRNAs today:

✨ Gatekeeping in anesthesia
✨ Getting into CRNA school with "limited" ICU experience
✨ Leadership qualities that set applicants apart
✨ Why delayed gratification is essential for success
✨ Failing exams and bouncing back stronger
✨ Surviving integrated CRNA programs
✨ Managing difficult preceptors and clinical challenges
✨ Social media, professionalism, and protecting your career
✨ Board preparation and transitioning into practice
✨ Learning to trust yourself when self-doubt creeps in

If you've ever wondered whether you're ready, questioned if you belong in CRNA school, or struggled through the inevitable challenges of this journey, this conversation is for you.

Bilal's message is simple but powerful: You were selected for a reason. You belong where you are. Keep going.

🎙️ Whether you're an aspiring CRNA, current NAR, or new graduate preparing for boards and your first job, you'll walk away with practical advice, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on what it means to lead yourself through one of the most demanding journeys in healthcare.

Follow Bilal @thatcrnawholifts