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Nursing Uncharted

Nursing Uncharted

Written by: AMN Healthcare
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 Welcome to the Nursing Uncharted Podcast, where raw and real stories of nurses are told. Join us as we navigate the uncharted territories of nursing, together. We delve into candid conversations covering travel nursing, career advice, nurse empowerment, unique nursing experiences, and some of the technologies that are driving nurse satisfaction and engagement. Tune in for laughter, learning, and discovering new aspects of the incredible profession of nursing. Welcome to our show, where every nurse’s story finds its voice.2024 AMN Healthcare Careers Economics Hygiene & Healthy Living Personal Success Physical Illness & Disease Self-Help Success
Episodes
  • Finding Your "Why" & The Journey from Travel to Staff Nursing with Alex Craft

    Finding Your "Why" & The Journey from Travel to Staff Nursing with Alex Craft
    Feb 17 2026
    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.Key TakeawaysThe Power of a Personal "Why": Alex shares the touching story of losing her mother to cancer, and how the nurses who cared for her mom inspired her own nursing philosophy.Travel Nursing Experiences: Insights into travel nursing during the pandemic, the benefits of seeing how different hospitals operate, and why Alex believes every nurse should try traveling at least once.Transitioning to Staff: How Alex decided to leave the travel life for a permanent staff position and the positive impact she makes by bringing outside perspectives to her new unit.Balancing Career and Single Motherhood: A vulnerable discussion about "mom guilt," the logistics of childcare, and the drive to provide a good life for her son.The Nurse-Recruiter Relationship: The critical role a supportive recruiter plays in a traveler's success and mental well-being.Advocacy in Action: How experienced nurses can advocate for their patients and fellow staff members to improve unit culture and patient care.Timestamps00:00 – Intro and welcome.00:48 – Alex’s introduction and nursing background.01:13 – The emotional story behind why Alex chose nursing.04:22 – Finding passion in nursing after 12 years.06:04 – Starting travel nursing during COVID-19 and becoming a mom.09:03 – Bringing a traveler’s perspective to a staff role.12:19 – The importance of a welcoming unit culture.16:34 – Navigating single motherhood while working as a traveler.20:00 – Building a strong relationship with a recruiter.26:16 – Advice for single moms in nursing.27:06 – Future goals: Teaching the next generation of nurses. Connect With UsIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also find show updates and nursing opportunities on our Instagram at @AMNnurse. Connect With UsIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to our show on your favorite podcast platform. You can also find show updates and nursing opportunities on our Instagram at @AMNnurse. About AnnAnn King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13+ years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 5+ years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing. Connect with Ann on Instagram: @annifer05 Are you interested in coming on as a guest? Send us a message at podcasts@amnhealthcare.com Episode Sponsor:We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare. Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today! Do you know a nurse looking to get into travel? Refer a friend to AMN today! Learn more about AMN Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program. Join Our Other Nursing Communities: YouTubeInstagramApple PodcastsSpotifyLinkedInFacebookPowered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    28 mins
  • The Importance of Nurse-Recruiter Relationships with Audrey Tate

    The Importance of Nurse-Recruiter Relationships with Audrey Tate
    Feb 4 2026
    Episode Highlights & Key ThemesThe Power of the Recruiter Relationship: We discuss why the bond between a travel nurse and their recruiter is the cornerstone of a successful assignment. Trust, vulnerability, and clear communication help navigate the ups and downs of travel healthcare.Why Nurses Travel Today: The motivations for hitting the road are changing. We explore factors like flexibility, leadership shifts in hospitals, cost of living pressures, and maintaining financial stability.AMN Passport App: Discover how technology is streamlining the travel experience. We break down the features of the AMN Passport app, from finding positions to managing credentials and connecting with a community of peers.Valuing Experience and Certifications: A look at how specialized skills and certifications should be recognized and how they impact placement and career growth.Support Beyond the Bedside: How AMN supports nurses holistically, including platforms like this podcast and continuing education resources.Timestamps00:01:16 – How AMN supports nurses beyond the bedside00:02:21 – Meet Audrey Tate: The role of a recruiter00:04:12 – The importance of the nurse-recruiter relationship00:15:38 – The financial realities and cost of living challenges for travelers00:19:00 – Evolving reasons why nurses choose to travel00:36:10 – AMN Passport app features00:51:10 – Recognizing and valuing nurse experience and certificationsAbout Our GuestAudrey Tate is a Senior Travel Nurse Recruiter with AMN Healthcare and brings a wealth of knowledge about the industry. She emphasizes the "human" side of recruiting, advocating for vulnerability and trust as key components of professional relationships. Resources & LinksAMN Passport App: Download the app to view available positions, manage credentials, and track your impact.AMN Healthcare Learning Center: Access free continuing education units (CEUs) and certification assistance. Visit AMN HealthcareNursing Uncharted: Learn more about the show and past episodes.Join the ConversationIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Nursing Uncharted on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us reach more nurses and healthcare professionals. About AnnAnn King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13+ years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 5+ years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing. Connect with Ann on Instagram: @annifer05 Are you interested in coming on as a guest? Send us a message at podcasts@amnhealthcare.com Episode Sponsor:We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare. Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today! Do you know a nurse looking to get into travel? Refer a friend to AMN today! Learn more about AMN Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program. Join Our Other Nursing Communities: YouTubeInstagramApple PodcastsSpotifyLinkedInFacebookPowered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    1 hr
  • Manifesting Your Best Year Yet

    Manifesting Your Best Year Yet
    Jan 21 2026
    Episode HighlightsReflecting on 2025 & Setting IntentionsAnn shares how embracing the "good, the bad, and the ugly" of 2025 helped shape her current perspective. Rather than setting rigid resolutions that can lead to failure, the focus shifts to setting up a state of being. The chosen word for 2026 is "Manifest." This isn't about passively wishing for success or happiness; it is about visualizing where you want your life to go and actively doing the hard work to get there.The "Work" in NursingThe concept of "putting in the work" translates directly to the bedside. Nurses don't just show up and check tasks off a list. They use their brains, hearts, and intuition to advocate for patients who may not speak up for themselves. Ann discusses how to be fully present and proactive in patient care, rather than just existing in the role.Mental Health and Recognizing "Empty Cup" MomentsA key segment of this episode involves a raw personal story about reaching an emotional limit. Ann recounts a specific shift involving a critically ill infant and a challenging interaction with a patient's father. She knew she was burnt out and couldn't respond with the empathy the situation needed. By stepping away and asking her Charge Nurse for help, she protected both her own mental health and patient experience.Work-Life Balance & Self-CareNurses give endlessly, often sacrificing their own well-being. This episode emphasizes the necessity of filling your cup back up, whether that's through a free activity or a financial splurge. Ann shares her decision to book a five-day trip to Mexico with a friend. Despite financial goals, she recognized the need for a reset to maintain her passion for her career.The Evolving Landscape of HealthcareAs we move into 2026, the healthcare and travel nursing industries continue to shift. The host touches on the excitement surrounding these changes, the recovery from post-COVID transitions, and what the future holds for travel nursing. Key TakeawaysManifestation requires action: You cannot wait for someone else to fix your life or hand you success; you must pull yourself up and do the work.It's okay to tap out: Recognizing when you have "nothing left to give" is a strength, not a weakness. It ensures patient safety and preserves your sanity.Prioritize the reset: Whether it's a vacation or a small treat, reclaiming your time off is essential to surviving life at the bedside.Embrace the unknown: Healthcare changes are inevitable. Approaching them with excitement rather than fear can change your entire experience. About AnnAnn King, a seasoned travel nurse with a remarkable 14-year track record, has dedicated the past 13+ years to specializing in Neonatal ICU. Ann has been traveling with AMN Healthcare for 5+ years, enriching her expertise with diverse experiences. Currently residing in San Diego, Ann not only thrives in her nursing career but also serves as the host of the Nursing Uncharted podcast, where she shares invaluable insights and stories from the world of nursing. Connect with Ann on Instagram: @annifer05 Are you interested in coming on as a guest? Send us a message at podcasts@amnhealthcare.com Episode Sponsor:We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare. Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today! Do you know a nurse looking to get into travel? Refer a friend to AMN today! Learn more about AMN Healthcare's Employee Assistance Program. Join Our Other Nursing Communities: YouTubeInstagramApple PodcastsSpotifyLinkedInFacebookPowered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    22 mins
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