Episodes
- The Two Moments That Changed My Life (LIVE at AWHONN)Jun 27, 2025 · 1 hr 2 minI wanted to share something really personal with you—my keynote presentation from the AWHONN Convention in Orlando, FL. In this talk, I open up about two moments that completely changed my life: being banned from donating blood in nursing school for being gay, and having my first panic attack after a long shift in the ICU. These moments could’ve broken me. But instead, they lit a fire. One pushed me to start Banned4Life and help lift the FDA’s gay blood ban. The other led me to create my Nurse Blake social media accounts as a way to share my story & overcome burnout. Life gives us moments—some beautiful, some painful, some totally unexpected. My hope is that as you listen, you’ll look at your own defining moments and realize: they don’t have to hold you back. You have the power to take them, shape them, and turn them into something meaningful. ___________ I hope to see you later this Fall during my But Did You Die? Comedy Tour! Tickets on sale now at: nurseblake.com ___________ I want to shoutout AWHONN for selecting me to be their Keynote and to everyone who attended my session!
- Vet Techs Are Nurses? Exploring Our Titles & RolesJun 11, 2025 · 20 minAre vet techs nurses? It’s a hot debate across social media, and in this episode, I’m diving into both sides of the conversation. We’ll break down the education, licensing, and responsibilities of veterinary technicians vs. nurses—and spotlight some surprising skills you may not know vet techs have. I’ll also share your comments & hot takes. Spoiler: this isn’t about who does more—it’s about credentials, respect, and keeping it honest in both the human and animal healthcare worlds. 💬 Join the convo and send me your thoughts for a future episode!
- I’m back!! Rehab & Hook up Stories..Apr 22, 2025 · 31 minI’m back!! Welcome to Season 2 of the Nurse Blake Podcast! To start, I’m going on a whole new comedy tour, BUT DID YOU DIE?! Presale starts Wednesday April 23rd at 9am local with presale code: NURSE and general sale opens Friday April 25th at 9am local. VIP packages also available. Tickets: nurseblake.com I’m so excited to be back! Thanks for all your love & patience, the past 2 years have been crazy, divorce, rehab, hospital hook up stories! But I’ve learn a lot about myself and feeling better than ever! Wanna leave a comment, questions, or story, call the podcast hotline and leave me a message: (904) 586-8174 🫶 Nurse Blake Ps NurseCon at Sea Jamaica is 70% sold out! Book fast to lock in early bird pricing: nurseconatsea.com
- #40 - LIVE FROM NURSECON AT SEA 2022!Jun 2, 2022 · 38 minI’m back with my husband Brett with Two Ts aboard NurseCon at Sea ‘22, the inaugural sailing of the most EPIC nursing conference. Listen in while we sail away somewhere in the middle of the ocean! Brett and I presented the show in front of a live audience on the third night of the conference. This special live recording was just one small part of an incredible week! I share why I wanted to create NurseCon at Sea following my own experiences at other nursing conferences. Why not make them more fun?? I also talk about what it feels like to finally put on the event, and you get to hear Brett and I's reactions to everything that has gone down so far. Expectations were definitely exceeded, and we loved seeing all the nurses make connections and make the most out of the experience! What are we looking forward to next? Could we live on a cruise ship? After asking ourselves some fun questions, we answer some questions from our live audience. It was a blast and I’m already so excited for next year! NurseCon at Sea 2023 registration opens this Friday 6/3 at Noon ET!! SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING
- #39 - Season Finale: 2021 In ReviewJan 6, 2022 · 37 minHappy New Year! I’m sad to say I will be taking a bit of a hiatus, so this will be the season finale for The Nurse Blake Podcast. I appreciate every listener, but I have a lot of other exciting things planned for 2022. Stay subscribed because I’ll be back for NurseCon at Sea in April! As usual I’m with my husband Brett with two T’s, and I’m going over all of my favorite things this past year. I share my favorite thing this week, which is artificial turf for my pups! Then, Brett and I recap our winter break vacation in the British Virgin Islands. We spotted Jeff Bezos’ mega yacht, and we ran into a bunch of nurses! We also talk about our favorite songs, tv shows, and movies we watched in 2021. Brett and I reflect on some major milestones from 2021, and our goals for this year. I also cover trends that may shape the nursing profession in 2022. After that, we play a game that quizzes our knowledge on what was searched the most on Google last year. To wrap up I am reading a BUNCH of shout outs, thank you all for your submissions! Only a few rooms left on NurseCon at Sea! https://nurseconatsea.com/ Stay tuned for more show dates! https://nurseblake.com/ Thanks for listening!
- #38 - NCLEX Prep & Closing Out 2021Dec 16, 2021 · 42 minThis week’s podcast will be the last one of the year, and it's all about the NCLEX. How is 2021 almost over?? My favorite thing this week is drinking around the world at Epcot! As usual, I’m with my husband Brett with two T’s and we break down our Epcot day with my family. We took my Nan, who has previously been a guest on this podcast and was the star of one of my latest videos. Go check out my TikTok documenting our Epcot trip! Congratulations to all the nursing students who have recently graduated! Unfortunately, you all aren’t nurses yet. You still have to take the NCLEX. I’m going over the basics of what the NCLEX is, the registration process, and when to take it. I’m also sharing the special trick to see if you passed or failed! Then, I go over the top tips for passing the NCLEX. It’s not like any test you’ve taken in nursing school. Brett and I also play some geographical trivia in honor of drinking around the world. To wrap up, I answer a “Dear Blake” question and read shout outs submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Only a few rooms left on NurseCon at Sea! https://nurseconatsea.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #37 - OB Nursing aka Baby CatchersDec 9, 2021 · 45 minWhat’s up everyone! For this week’s podcast I’m talking all about OB nursing with my husband Brett with two T’s. I’m also mentioning NurseCon at Sea, and the planning cruise I recently sailed on. It's going to be so much fun, and there are only a few rooms left for the sailing in April! Plus, I give a special shout out to the 2021 Nurse Blake Awards winners! Then I get into the different OB specialties like labor and delivery and postpartum OB nurses, the high pressure around the main event (the birth), and if eating placentas is vegan or not. Our game this week is all about cruising with some true or false Royal Caribbean trivia. I also read some day in the life messages from OB nurses who are NurseCon members. To wrap up, I answer a “Dear Blake” question from a nursing student. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. More giveaways coming soon through NurseCon! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #36 - ER vs. ICU NursingDec 2, 2021 · 59 minI’m back!! This week I’m in the studio again alongside Brett with two T’s. All good things must come to an end, and the tour is officially over for 2021. Thank you to everyone who came out! My favorite thing is Adele’s new song OMG. I give an update on the Croc saga, I share who’s getting my tour bus next, and Happy Birthday to Brett! The nursing topic for this week is ER/ED nursing vs. ICU nursing. I go in depth on each specialty and share the similarities and differences. In the ER there’s a lot more unknown, because you never know who’s going to come through the door. I share my experience as an ICU nurse, which is more of a controlled environment. Which specialty would be the best fit for you? We also play a fun Netflix themed game, and I answer a “Dear Blake” question for a nurse that’s afraid to use her PTO. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. More giveaways coming soon through NurseCon! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #35 - Self Care and Segways (Mini Episode)Nov 18, 2021 · 13 minHey everyone! This week is a mini episode because it’s been a busy week with my PTO Tour. There are only a few stops left, and I’m sad it’s almost over for 2021! I’m in California today with my husband Brett with 2 t’s, and we’re taking a little self-care day. I have two favorite things, and one is Thai massages. I explain why they’re so cool! My other favorite thing is segways, and I talk about my first time riding up and down San Francisco with my best friend @FabulousRn. Thanks for listening! We’ll be back the week after Thanksgiving. Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING
- #34 - Nursing ShiftsNov 11, 2021 · 48 minFor this episode, I’m going in depth on nursing shifts and how 3 12’s affects nurses. I’m still on the road with my husband Brett with two T’s for the last stretch of my PTO Comedy Tour! We’re recording in Denver, which reminds me of some memorable hikes I’ve taken in Colorado. I have a few favorite things, including the breadsticks at Olive Garden and Insomnia Cookies! Sponsor us? After some bowel movement talk, I jump into different nursing shifts including the most common 3 12’s schedule. The appeal of flexibility has definitely changed over time, and is it safe? Sometimes shifts can stretch as long as 16 hours! Overtime laws vary by state, but there are a lot of nurses who are forced to work mandatory overtime. I get into short staffing, on-call shifts, and what nurses are currently going through at their hospitals. Advocate for patients and the nurses that care for them. To close out I’m reading shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #33 - Nursing Specialties Pt. 2Nov 4, 2021 · 53 minHappy Thursday! This week I’m going over more nursing specialties beyond the bedside. I’m still in Texas with my husband Brett (with two T’s), and we talk about how all of our favorite things come from Austin, our spiritual walk, and how our break has been. My favorite thing this week is bees, and I share some fun bee knowledge I learned during my trip to the bee farm! The specialties I go over this week include Forensic Nursing, Legal Nurse Consultants, and School Nurses! These nurses play vital roles in the community, and it’s fun to learn more about them. I’m also talking about Medical Script Nurses, which leads us to a Grey's Anatomy conversation. Then, I answer a “Dear Blake” question for new nurses. To close out I’m reading shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #32 - Nursing Specialties Pt. 1Oct 28, 2021 · 47 minWhat’s up everyone! I just wrapped up the Midwest leg of my PTO Comedy Tour, and I’m in Austin, TX for a short vacation break with Brett. We share some stories about the last time we were in Texas, which includes some water sports action! I also reflect on my big Nashville show, my fear of bees, and I’m giving the details on my Halloween costume. For this week’s nursing topic, I’m exploring different nursing specialties. And next week I’m diving into more! I’m starting with flight transport nurses (they have the BEST uniforms). I go into the expectations of the job, and requirements to apply. I also test my pilot husband with an aviation quiz! I also talk about telephone triage nursing and correctional care nursing. There are so many interesting nursing specialties beyond the bedside, so if you want to leave bedside nursing remember that you don't have to leave the nursing practice all together. To close out I’m reading shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #31 - Nursing Around the WorldOct 21, 2021 · 46 minThis week, I’m talking to you all about nursing around the world with my wonderful husband Brett! I’m not covering every country, but I go over different regions of the world and see what the similarities and differences are in nursing across the globe. My favorite thing this week is my weighted blanket, and shoutout to the fan that gave me a Crocs gift card! What Croc charms should I get? Then I dive right in with some interesting global nurse facts. I guess we’re all short staffed? After that I’m going over what healthcare coverage is like in other countries, staff ratios, uniforms, and more. I read responses I received from international nurses from the NurseCon app and Facebook. I’m moving to Australia so I can be a casual nurse! I also test Brett with a “Countries Around the World” quiz. To close out I’m reading shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #30 - Travel NursingOct 14, 2021 · 54 minHappy Thursday! This week, I’m with my husband Brett (with two T’s) and we’re talking all about travel nursing. I’m also going over some super sweet reviews you all have sent in about my comedy tour. I have a few favorite things this week- one important one being food delivery services. Tip your drivers! My other favorite thing is going on TikTok and sending sunglasses on live. If you’re confused, don’t worry I will explain. Travel nursing is always a hot topic, so I’m breaking down all the ins and outs. Travel nurses have the opportunity to earn a much higher income than staff nurses, but that can cause tension between staff and travel nurses. It’s important to stick together, because nurses are in demand and patients need us. Is travel nursing for you? Then, Brett and I take a quiz to find out which types of travelers we are! I’m almost halfway through my PTO Comedy Tour, and I’m going over some reviews of the show. Email Netflix about getting me a comedy special! Thank you to everyone who has come out, I love you all! To close out I’m reading shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #29 - The Power of Social MediaOct 7, 2021 · 1 hr 4 minThis week, I’m back on the road with my husband after a short break. Brett is back! My favorite thing this week is my birkenstock sandals #notsponsored, and Brett has a favorite thing this week too! For this episode, I’m talking all about the power of social media. I start by getting nostalgic about my early internet usage like MySpace and AOL instant messaging. I also discuss which social media sites I’ve never used, and which ones are my favorites. Then I share the story behind my first viral video, the scrub romper! I’m talking about the way I approach being a content creator as a nurse, and why it’s important to maintain a level of professionalism online. I also get into the good and bad when it comes to using social media as a nurse. Thank you for supporting me and being a part of my journey! I play This or That: Social Media Edition with Brett, and to close out I answer a “Dear Blake” question and read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #28 - My Nan and Nursing School 101Sep 30, 2021 · 53 minWhat’s up everyone! I have a super fun episode for you this week. I’m wrapping up the East Coast run of my PTO Comedy Tour in Tampa, and my grandmother Nan is in town! I’m so excited to finally introduce my Nan, who is an avid listener of the podcast. My favorite thing this week is Todd Patrick, which is a luxury queer-owned streetwear brand I found in Atlanta. I’m breaking down types of nursing schools, and give some tips for applicants looking for the right program. I’m also sharing stories with my Nan, and asking her questions about her life so you all can get to know her better. I also go over the classes you take in nursing school, and the certifications you’ll earn. What type of nurse would Nan be? I also answer some nursing school related “Dear Blake” submissions. Then, I quiz Nan on her East Coast knowledge in honor of closing out my East Coast run on tour. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #27 - Nurse Ride-Out TeamsSep 23, 2021 · 44 minHappy Thursday! This week, I’m recording another episode on the road! This time Brett and I are in a hotel conference room, because we’re so fancy. To start, I talk about crashing a nursing school lecture in Pittsburgh, and the local lingo my cousin taught me. My favorite thing this week is my fanny pack! I share what’s in my bag and why I love it. Then, I get into the main topic of the episode, which is all about nurse ride-out teams. I’m covering the differences between being on the ride-out team vs. the recovery team. I’m sharing my tips for ride-out nurses, and Brett and I discuss how we’ve handled natural disaster situations in the past. I also take a preparedness quiz with Brett to see if we’re prepared for another natural disaster! Shoutout to all the ride out healthcare workers, you all are amazing! To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #26 - Life on the RoadSep 16, 2021 · 55 minI’m back!! And I’m on the road. This week, I’m recording the podcast from a dressing room because my PTO Comedy Tour has started! As always, I’m with Brett with two T’s, and we’re talking about bus life, our tour crew, and the cities we’ve stopped at so far. To start, I explain how my tour is going, and the work I’ve put in with my team to make this show amazing! Brett and I break down what it’s like to live on a tour bus, and we get into all the ins and outs. I love being on the road, because it’s so fun to connect with all of you across the country! My favorite thing this week is my new headphones, which leads to a story about how I got lost in the woods in North Carolina. I’ve also launched the 4th Annual Nurse Blake Awards, which is a sweepstakes! There is the Grand Prize: 2022 Tesla Model 3 or $25,000, two First place winners: $5,000 each, and ten Second place winners: $500 each. It’s the biggest Nurse Blake Awards yet! Then, Brett and I play “This or That - Travel Edition”. Would you rather travel by plane or bus? Tropical vacation or mountain vacation? I also go through the 5 states where nurses are the happiest! To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Enter for a chance to win through the free NurseCon app, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #25 - Dating a Nursing Student *tipsy episode*Sep 2, 2021 · 56 minWe made it!! This week I’m sipping on a High Noon with my husband to celebrate 25 episodes of the podcast. TW: the carbonation led to some burps. This episode is really fun because it’s all about dating a nursing student! I share my experience, and Brett with two T’s shares his perspective on being the partner of a nursing student. My favorite thing this week is my brand new shoes. They look like fancy crocs, so they’re comfortable and practical. Dating a nursing student isn’t easy, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Nursing school is stressful and it takes up a lot of your time. You can make dating work though, and I share 8 tips on how to do it. I also go through the 5 love languages, and I take the love language quiz to see how well my husband knows my love languages. I’d say we’re pretty compatible! Even if your love languages are very different from your partner’s, you can learn how to show the love they want to receive. To close out, I answer a “Dear Blake” question. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. After next week’s break I’m going to start to record the podcast on the road! I’m so excited! Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #24 - The Real Nursing CrisisAug 26, 2021 · 51 minFor this episode, I get serious and give my unfiltered thoughts on nurse retention, and a New York Times article that came out this week titled “Nursing is in Crisis”. To start, I get into my favorite thing this week, which is pumpkin spice lattes! Summer is over y’all. That means my tour is starting so so soon! Check out my website for tickets. Most of the people cited in the NY Times article were executives, not bedside nurses. I will always advocate for bedside nurses, and the general public needs to hear from the nurses themselves. Nursing has been in a crisis before the pandemic, and now it’s become clear nurse’s needs are often forgotten. To lighten things up- Happy National Dog Day! My husband Brett and I ask each other some dog trivia questions to celebrate. Nurses deserve more recognition than gum and water bottles. It’s time for hospitals to implement safe staffing protocols. Advocate for each other, because nurse advocacy and patient advocacy go hand in hand at the end of the day. Next week is our drinking episode, so be sure to tune it! To close out I answer a “Dear Blake” question and give a shout out. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. NY Times Article: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/21/health/covid-nursing-shortage-delta.html Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #23 - Growing Up Be Like...Aug 19, 2021 · 51 minThis week, I’m sharing stories from childhood with my husband Brett! My favorite thing is Air Head Extremes, which leads to a conversation about candies and how they’ve changed over the years. From cereal milk to embarrassing moments, Brett and I are diving into growing up stories that helped shape us into who we are today. I talk about my rivalry with the “other” Blake from elementary school. Brett talks about breaking his nose, but luckily for me I wasn’t great at sports so I never got injured. I was talented in other ways though, and I talk about my acting roles in high school. Since we both grew up in Florida, I share “Florida Man” stories that came out on our birthdays. Brett and I play a 2nd round of Favorite and Least Favorite! This time we're getting into social media, months of the year, nursing shifts, and more! I talk about my first show rehearsal for my upcoming tour; I’m so excited to see you all! After that I answer some Dear Blake questions about nursing school and burnout at the bedside. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #22 - My 1st Nursing JobAug 14, 2021 · 47 minI’m talking about my very first nursing job for this episode! As usual I have to start with my favorite thing this week- my ice beanie. If you run hot like me, this is a game changer y’all. I’m excited about my tour kicking off in less than a month! There might be a big surprise at one of my shows, and I tell my husband Brett all about it. I’m also talking about NurseCon, which is now available on the App store! It’s free to sign up, and you can get your CNEs for FREE. Before I dive into my first nursing job story, I answer some Dear Blake questions for new grads. Some things you’ll just have to shake off, but in some circumstances it is the right thing to do to leave your new job. I had my first nursing job in Greenville, SC at a level one trauma center. I get into the residency program, starting on the night shift, and bonding with my unit and patients. My biggest piece of advice is to remember to have fun! Remember why you wanted to be a nurse in the first place, because it will all feel overwhelming at first. You got this! Brett and I also play “Favorite and Least Favorite”, from jobs, to classes in school, and I even reveal a big change to my coffee choices during the game! To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #21 - Surviving Nursing SchoolAug 5, 2021 · 56 minThis episode is all about surviving nursing school! My absolute favorite thing this week is my puppies coming home. Brett and I had our two dogs in training for 6 weeks, and I’m so happy to have them back full time! I also share the story of how we ended up with two dogs instead of one. I answer some “Dear Blake” school related questions from listeners. Then, I go through the Top 10 Nursing Schools in 2021 according to nurse.org, and Brett tries to guess which schools made the list. So how do you survive nursing school once you find the best program for you? It’s important to focus on retention instead of memorization. Communicate with friends and family that you will be less available once nursing school starts. You’ll see who your real friends are! Make sure you are staying on top of your work, because it’s easy to get behind. Staying organized will be key. Tackle your clinical nerves by being prepared. Get there early, ask questions, and stay engaged. This week’s game is “This or That- Nursing School Edition”. Brett asks me all the This or That questions since I’m the only former nursing student on the podcast. Iced coffee over energy drinks for sure! This past year has resulted in a lot more online education, so be sure to ask lots of questions when you are on the job. Everyone will know your experience was different, and your unit will want to help you. Nursing is a learning journey, and you will continue to learn until you retire. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy show are on sale NOW! https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #20 - Best and Worst Parts About NursingJul 29, 2021 · 51 minBefore I get started, I wanted to address the loss of Nurse Ebi last week. He was the creator of @nurselifern on Instagram, host of the Nurse Speak podcast, and overall an incredible nurse and advocate. You will be missed! We made it to 20 episodes! I’m smiling through the pain from my dentist appointment, which I get into to start the episode. Then I talk about my favorite thing this week, which is Buzz Balls! No it’s not a toy- it’s an adult beverage in the shape of a ball! Please drink responsibly. #HotNurseSummer I’ve also added 9 new shows to my PTO Comedy Tour! Get your tickets before they’re gone. This week, I am discussing the best and worst parts of nursing. I start with the best parts of nursing, like the ability to care for others, job security, diverse opportunities, and more! There are so many reasons why nursing is a great career choice. Of course, there are some negatives. I go through some of the worst parts- including working overtime, exposure to germs and viruses, and high stress environments. To me, the pros outweigh the cons, but don’t jump into the profession because it pays well. Choose nursing if it’s right for you! I also quiz Brett with some basic nursing questions since he’s “basically” a nurse now. Then, I do my first installment of my new “Dear Blake” segment, where I answer questions you all submitted! To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Tickets for my comedy tour are on sale now! https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #19 - Nurse Pay, Let’s Talk MoneyJul 22, 2021 · 47 minAnother week, another new podcast episode! I’m talking all about what nurses get paid in different states. To start the episode, I’m talking about my “Category Is…” series I’ve been doing in my stories. The hydration stations are getting out of control, and the bugs and animals freaked me out! I also have a special announcement in regards to my tour coming soon, so be sure to follow me on social media for updates. Then I go through the highest RN salaries by state, and the lowest. I’m also comparing the pay to the living wage in those states. Some states may surprise you with their ranking! In the spirit of covering different states, we play the easiest state trivia quiz ever. Spoiler- I may have struggled with a question or two. I also dive into different nursing specialties where you can earn the big bucks! Keep in mind, nursing student debt is no joke. It’s all about doing your research and finding the right path for you. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. I’M GOING ON TOUR! TICKETS ON SALE NOW https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #18 - Medical TV ShowsJul 15, 2021 · 43 minHow realistic are medical TV shows? If you work in healthcare, you know some shows totally get it wrong! This week is all about medical tv shows and my perspective as a nurse. To start, I’m sharing my favorite thing this week- the MealTime app! It’s helping me use more seasonings than salt and pepper. Unfortunately my first meal didn’t go over so well with Brett’s stomach. Then, I dive into some of the most popular medical tv shows over the years. I’m sharing which nursing show I think is a total flop, and I’m quizzing my husband on the accuracy of popular shows based on the responses from doctors and nurses. I go in depth on Nurse Jackie and the reactions from real healthcare workers. Some people think the show negatively impacted the public perception of nurses. Did the show portray nurses in a bad light? Does the general public’s opinion on nurses really matter? I’m being candid about my thoughts. Shoutout to Nurse Bokhee for being featured in all 17 seasons of Grey’s Anatomy! This was a really fun episode and I hope you all enjoy it. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. I’M GOING ON TOUR! TICKETS ON SALE NOW https://www.nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening! Referenced articles: https://nursingeducation.org/25-best-tv-shows/ https://www.insider.com/experts-reveal-the-least-and-most-accurate-medical-shows-2019-12 http://ojin.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/ANAMarketplace/ANAPeriodicals/OJIN/Columns/Ethics/Nurse-Jackie.html
- #17 - Nurses Support Their YoungJul 8, 2021 · 52 minThis week is all about nurses eating their young, and why instead nurses should SUPPORT their young. BRETT IS BACK! My favorite thing this week, besides recording with my husband again, is the Velocicoaster at Universal Orlando. The Florida rain was not going to stop me from getting on this ride. There were a lot of twists and turns, it was intense! Then, we read some stories submitted by listeners about bullying they’ve experienced in nursing. If you’re not getting the support you need in nursing school, find a different program. If you’re working in a toxic environment, find a different nursing job. There are supportive programs and nursing jobs out there, and you deserve to be treated fairly. It is a real problem, and it takes active effort to change the culture of bullying in nursing. I go over a study on nurse bullying called “Our Own Worst Enemies”, published in 2019. We go over the different bully archetypes presented in the article, and how we can counteract these behaviors. https://journals.lww.com/naqjournal/fulltext/2019/07000/our_own_worst_enemies__the_nurse_bullying_epidemic.12.aspx I also play “How Well Do You Know Me?” with my husband to test our knowledge of each other as a couple. We try our best not to bully each other along the way! To wrap up the nurse bullying conversation, I break down strategies you can use to address nurse bullying. Shoutout to the awesome and supportive leaders in nursing that help maintain a healthy work environment. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. I’M GOING ON TOUR! TICKETS ON SALE NOW https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #16 - Ask Me AnythingJul 1, 2021 · 50 minThis week, I’m solo on the podcast (Brett will be back next week!) and I’m answering questions submitted through my website and from Instagram. We’re talking about nursing school stress, work-life balance on the night shift, toxic work environments, and more! I'm getting REAL on this episode. To start the show I’m talking about my comedy show this Fall, because I’m just so excited!! If you haven’t already, get your tickets on my website. Let’s get some local hospital rivalries going... rep your hospital! My favorite thing this week is TikTok. Not even embarrassed! Then, I’m diving into all your questions and sharing my thoughts based on my own experiences. What made me want to pursue a career in nursing? Will anxiety affect your nursing practice? Tips for dealing with burnout? I’m covering it all. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. I’M GOING ON TOUR! TICKETS ON SALE NOW https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #15 - The Gay Blood BanJun 24, 2021 · 44 minThis week on the podcast, my husband Brett and I discuss our experience fighting the gay blood ban. Before we dive into that topic, we have to tell you all about sending off our puppies to training camp! We miss them so much. My favorite thing this week is sweet tea Mio! Drinking plain water wasn’t working for me... Then we talk about the first big project we started together- Banned4Life. We wanted to get the FDA to end the permanent gay blood donor ban. We didn’t want to boycott blood drives, so we raised awareness by getting eligible donors to donate on our behalf. Before we knew it, news stations were picking up the story, and we had a feature in Men's Health magazine! In December of 2015 the FDA ended the lifetime ban. Now, there is still a 3-month deferral period that requires donors to abstain from gay sexual encounters. So much progress has been made, but there’s still more work to be done. I’m working with One Blood (in partnership with LBGTQ+ centers) to get 2,000 gay and bisexual males to participate in the ADVANCE Study to present evidence to the FDA that even a 3-month deferral is unnecessary. Sign up at https://advancestudy.org/ You have the power to create change in your community. Brett and I also read off some blood donor facts from redcrossblood.org you may not know! To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. I’M GOING ON TOUR! TICKETS ON SALE NOW https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #14 - Self Care is Hard!Jun 17, 2021 · 54 minNursing is hard, and so is self care! This week, my husband and I are talking all about self care. My favorite thing this week is my one gallon hydration water bottle. I’m always trying to drink more water, so we’ll see if this helps! I ran a 5k this past week, because clearly I’m a natural born athlete. Tickets for my comedy show this Fall are officially on sale! Because I’m preparing for the tour this will be the last podcast with video, but we will keep the podcast going every week audio only. Self care is so important for nurses and nursing students, but it can feel overwhelming to find the time to take care of yourself. I’m breaking down my favorite self care habit, which is my skin care routine of course. Brett’s favorite self care habit is Uncle John’s Bathroom Readers (sponsor us)! We’re not self care experts, but we do our best. We wrap up the self care conversation by reading 25 ways you can practice self care everyday by Women’s Health magazine. Eat your greens, unless it’s arugula… gross! To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. I’M GOING ON TOUR! Tickets ON SALE NOW https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #13 - Life After Nursing SchoolJun 10, 2021 · 54 minBIG week! I announced my PTO Comedy Tour, and tickets go on sale Friday 6/11! I’m super excited, and that’s one of the first things I dive into. My favorite thing this week is my pride shirt from… Abercrombie?! (I know, shocking). I also got the BTS meal at McDonalds this week, and I share my not-so-great experience with McFlurrys. Then my husband and I get into the main topic of the episode, which is life after nursing school. I’m sharing my experience looking for a job after nursing school, and what it was like having my first nursing role as a new grad. Along the way I offer some advice for the new grads as you all navigate your journey as a nurse. You got this! To provide the ultimate interview guide, I decided to let my husband Brett interview me. Why are these basic questions so hard to answer?? It was a lot of fun, and I hope you all enjoy it and take away a new interview tip or two so you can kill it in your next nursing role. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. I’m going on TOUR! Tickets ON SALE 6/11 https:/nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- BIG ANNOUNCEMENTJun 7, 2021 · 1 minTickets go ON SALE this Friday 6/11 at 10am local time for my comedy tour! I’m sharing my experiences from nursing school and as a nurse through live sketches and visuals for an immersive comedy show. I can't wait to see you there, bring your coworkers and friends! Artist Pre-Sale begins tomorrow 6/8 at 10am local time, text "PTO" to 31996 for the early access code! Go to nurseblake.com for details!
- #12 - Nurse Breakroom DisastersJun 3, 2021 · 1 hr 4 minThis week I dive into all of the worst breakroom photos my followers have been sending me on Instagram. Before that I’m sharing my new favorite thing this week with my listeners, which is the Wooley Pad for my sweet pups! I didn’t think my dogs could enjoy eating their food any more, but I was wrong and I definitely recommend this for dog owners. Then my husband and I react to some of the grossest breakroom fridges that were sent to me. Seriously, who is going to clean out the fridge?? Not that nurses get a full lunch break to begin with. Shoutout to the hospitals with mandatory breaks! I had to apologize for my epic day date fail to Brett that happened the day we recorded (oops)! It’s more forgivable than most of these breakrooms though. The bathroom/breakroom combinations, the old dirty recliners, storage closet breakrooms, and more. We also play a fun game of This or That - Breakroom Fridge Edition. Are you eating an old turkey sandwich, or an unwrapped PB&J? To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. I’m going on TOUR! https:/nurseblake.com/tour Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #11 - Our Cross Country RoadtripMay 27, 2021 · 55 minThis week on the podcast, my husband and I went down memory lane and shared the story of our cross country roadtrip. To kick off the episode I talk about my favorite thing this week, and that is “The Circle” on Netflix. In close a second is my confetti vegan smoothie. It’s delicious, I promise. So good I had to go get it in the middle of the episode! While living in an RV for a year, we lived off of Brett’s nature photography through art gallery shows. We’re not the best planners, so we had a few near death experiences along the way. Plan your hikes accordingly! To wrap up, Brett and I quiz each other on state capitals. I’m a geography expert! Somehow I was accepted into nursing school along the way, and I flew back and forth for orientation. There’s always time to get lost in the desert while pursuing your dreams. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Check out my merch! https://store.nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #10 - Nurses Week Gifts Suck Pt. 2May 20, 2021 · 57 minOne episode was not enough! I’m back this week with more terrible Nurses Week gifts. My followers sent way too many hilariously bad gifts for just one podcast. Spaghetti in a bag, a hula hoop event, passive aggressive emails, and (unfortunately) so much more! It’s sad, but we have to laugh together. My favorite thing this week is... my new haircut! I tried to describe it for my listeners the best I could. Thank you to everyone who wished me a happy birthday! Feeling 30, flirty, and I’m thriving. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Check out my new merch! https://store.nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #9 - Nurses Week Gifts SuckMay 13, 2021 · 57 minThis week, I am breaking down all of the worst Nurses Week gifts my followers sent me this year. It was a mess, and my husband and I don’t hold back with our unfiltered thoughts. From the typical cheesy puns, to the passive aggressive emails, and some things I don’t even feel comfortable typing out… it’s safe to say that nurses deserve more. My favorite thing this week is the secret to my smile- my new toothbrush! Brett and I also play a game of Nurse Trivia, and we’re quite surprised by some of the results. This episode was so fun to record, and I can’t wait for you all to listen! I’m also wearing Nurse Ebi’s merch this week in support of my friend and the man behind @nurseslifern. Ebi was diagnosed with cancer last year, and you can support him by donating to his GoFundMe, or buying some of his super cute merchandise. We love you Ebi! To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Ebi’s GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/vky9j-ebi039s-gofundme?utm_campaign=p_cp_url&utm_medium=os&utm_source=customer Ebi’s merch: https://nursespeak.com My merch: https://store.nurseblake.com Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING
- #8 - Was Florence Queer?May 6, 2021 · 34 minHAPPY NURSES WEEK! This is a very special episode, because I’m talking all about Florence Nightingale to kick off Nurses Week. To start the episode, I’m sharing the best method to get the perfect scoop of ice cream with my listeners. I used to microwave my ice cream until I found the ultimate ice cream scooper! Then I get into the life and legacy of Florence Nightingale. I’m sharing her story in detail to show how her extraordinary efforts in nursing contributed to the development of modern nursing as we know it today. One part of Florence’s story that remains a mystery is her personal life and relationships. My husband and I share our experience learning more about Florence in London a few years back, and we provide some evidence that may lead some to believe that she was a part of the LBGTQIA+ community. So, was Florence Nightingale queer? To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Check out my new merch! https://store.nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #7 - "You're Just a Nurse"Apr 29, 2021 · 47 minTo kick off the episode I am spilling the tea about the HAIR I found in my Starbucks drink. As if things couldn’t get any worse- there has been an oat milk shortage! Am I switching my allegiance to Dunkin Donuts? After that I talk about my new favorite thing, my Tovala (not sponsored)! Then, I am diving into all the misconceptions the general public has about nursing, and breaking down what a nurse actually does at the bedside. I am calling out public figures who have made wild claims about nurses during a game of “Who Said It?”. To wrap up, I get into jobs beyond the bedside within the nursing field. If you’re unhappy with your current role, there is no need to leave nursing all together. The world needs more incredible nurses like you! To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Check out my new merch! https://store.nurseblake.com/ Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #6 - Life on the Night ShiftApr 22, 2021 · 45 minI’m talking all about the night shift for this week's episode. My husband and I will be rocking pajamas, and we’ll describe our bedtime fits for our listeners. We are also celebrating our 5 year wedding anniversary! I share our last minute wedding day story, and explain why loosely planned events can turn out to be the best sometimes. Then I get into my experience on the night shift, and the differences between working at night versus the day shift. I also read some creepy night shift stories from our listeners! After that, Brett and I play “This or That- Job Edition”. Would you rather be a Gastroenterologist or a Coal Miner? If you’ve ever been curious about what it’s like to work on the night shift, this episode is for you! Shoutout to all the awesome night shifters out there. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. Become a member of NurseCon, the ultimate nursing organization! https://www.nursecon.com/ SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #5 - Our Coming Out StoriesApr 15, 2021 · 44 minThis week, my husband and I opened up about our own individual coming-out stories. We start off by talking about our childhood celebrity crushes. Were you Team Backstreet Boys or Team NSYNC? Then, Brett talks about coming out later in life, and the response he received from friends and family. I share my own coming-out story and my experience with going through conversion therapy as a teen. We also discuss the importance of visibility in healthcare, and why the nursing field needs more diversity. Remember you are who you’re meant to be, and there are many people out there who want to love and support you. You are never alone. Zebra Coalition® is a network of organizations which provide services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and all youth (LGBTQ+) ages 13 – 24. If you’d like to donate visit: https://zebrayouth.org/ donate To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. We also have some exciting news about NurseCon at Sea 2022! SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING Thanks for listening!
- #4 - I Failed My Nursing Entrance ExamApr 8, 2021 · 48 minThis week, my husband and I talk about my new favorite Starbucks drink, going to Starbucks in Seattle, and our newfound appreciation for oat milk. Then we delve into our first jobs, and the jobs that helped prepare me for nursing school. It wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows though, because I FAILED my TEAS exam! We get into failing and trying again, then we test our knowledge by quizzing each other with TEAS exam prep questions! To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast . Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING! Get your merch at store.nurseblake.com Thanks for listening!
- #3 - Dating a Nurse & Our BreakupApr 1, 2021 · 47 minThis week, my husband and I dive into our relationship history. We talk about how we met, our Temptation Island obsession, who had the last scoop of protein powder, and test each other to see if we know our favorite fast food orders. Then we talk about our relationship before I started nursing school to Brett dealing with me on the night shift. Spoiler alert- WE BROKE UP! We explain the breakup and the reconciliation. After that Brett talks about our crazy acrobatic plane ride date for Valentine’s Day. We answer viewer questions and give advice for anyone who’s currently dating a nurse or nursing student. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast . Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING!
- #2 - The State of NursingMar 25, 2021 · 32 minIn this episode, my husband Brett and I discuss my new kitchen appliance purchase. We review comments about different podcast titles and I look up our zodiac sign compatibility. We dive into Brett’s “celebrity” bio, and our fitness routines. Then, we switch gears to discuss the current state of nursing and compare the healthcare industry to the airline industry. To close out we read shoutouts submitted on my website nurseblake.com/podcast . Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners. SUPPORT THE PODCAST BY SUBSCRIBING! Thanks for listening! MERCH: store.nurseblake.com
- #1 - Me, Myself, and My HusbandMar 18, 2021 · 30 minWelcome to my new podcast! Meet my husband Brett and hear the story of our 10 years together on this very first episode. Each week we will take on a new nursing topic and bring up questions and stories submitted by our listeners.