So, you’re sitting there wondering if it’s too late to dive back into school for MRI at 37, while juggling a toddler and your full-time gig. Let me tell you, age is just a number, my friend! With over 20 years in radiologic tech, I’ve got the scoop: your experience and wisdom can totally work in your favor. We chat about the real deal of going back to school—like how it’s not just about age, but more about having a solid plan and support system. From cutting back hours to figuring out childcare, it’s all about knowing what you need to keep that hustle alive. So, let’s break it down and tackle those worries together!

Ever found yourself wondering if you're too old to hit the books again? Well, our chat today dives into the heart of that conundrum. Picture this: you’re 37, juggling a toddler and a full-time job, and you’re eyeing a shiny new path in MRI technology. Sounds like a wild ride, right? But hold on, because age is just a number, my friend! With over 20 years in the radiologic tech game, I've got the scoop: your experience, your wisdom, and your fierce determination might just make you the perfect candidate for this challenge. Forget what the naysayers say! The real question is—are you ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into something that’ll demand your time and energy for a couple of intense years? Spoiler alert: if you’ve got a plan, you can totally do this! And don’t forget to picture yourself six months in, because it’s gonna be a ride, but a totally achievable one if you prep right. So, let’s get to it!

Takeaways:

• You might be wondering if being 37 and going back to school is crazy, but it's totally doable!
• Experience and wisdom can work in your favor when starting a new career path, trust me on this.
• Balancing school, work, and family is tough, but having a solid support system makes it easier.
• Don't let age deter you from pursuing your dreams; focus on what your reality looks like instead.

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Cheryl Peachy is here to blow your mind with how radiology is playing the role of the superhero in solving crimes! Yep, you heard that right—our guest today is a radiologic technologist who works in forensics, using X-rays and CT scans to help crack cases wide open. We dive deep into the fascinating world of forensic imaging, where the scanners do more than just look at bones—they help identify the deceased and give families the closure they desperately need. Cheryl shares her journey into this niche field, shedding light on how techs like us can make a real impact in justice. So, buckle up, because this episode is a wild ride through the intersection of science and crime investigation!

What if your CT or X-ray scan could help solve a crime?

In this episode of A Couple of Rad Techs Podcast, host Chaundria Singleton sits down with Cheryl Peachey, a Senior Lecturer at the University of New Mexico and forensic imaging specialist, to explore a side of radiology most technologists—and patients—never see.

Cheryl explains how post-mortem imaging is used in death investigations, how CT technology supplements autopsies, and why forensic imaging is critical during a national shortage of forensic pathologists.

She also shares a day-in-the-life inside the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, where imaging helps identify decedents, determine causes of death, and provide evidence for the justice system.

For technologists seeking a new challenge—or anyone fascinated by how medical imaging impacts public health and criminal justice—this episode offers insight, emotion, and inspiration.

🎧 Listen to learn:

• What a forensic imaging technologist actually does
• How CT and X-ray assist in solving deaths
• The emotional realities of working in death investigation
• Career paths for radiologic technologists beyond the hospital

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• #ForensicImaging
• #RadiologyPodcast
• #RadiologicTechnologist
• #MedicalImaging
• #CTTechnologist
• #ForensicRadiology
• #HealthcarePodcast
• #RadiologyCareer
• #ACoupleOfRadTechs
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Cheryl Peachy is in the house, and let me tell you, she's got some wild stories that’ll make you see radiology in a whole new light. We dive into the world of forensic imaging, where X-rays and CT scans aren’t just used for diagnosing the living, but for solving crimes and uncovering the truth about the deceased. Imagine being the tech behind the scenes helping investigators piece together the puzzle of a crime scene—it’s pretty intense! Cheryl shares how she got hooked on forensic imaging, all thanks to a mentor who opened her eyes to the darker yet fascinating side of radiology. From her early days as an X-ray tech to becoming a forensic imaging specialist, she’s been on a journey that combines science with a bit of detective work. We chat about the unique protocols they have for scanning decedents, the importance of precise imaging in criminal investigations, and how CT scans can sometimes save families from the heartache of waiting too long for justice. Seriously, you’ll be amazed at how much impact radiologic technologists like Cheryl have on the world of forensics!

Takeaways:

• Radiology isn't just for healing the living; it plays a vital role in solving crimes.
• Cheryl Peachy uses CT and X-ray to uncover truths about decedents and provide closure.
• Being a forensic imager means working with heavy cases, but teamwork keeps morale high.
• Forensic imaging can save costs and time, helping families and the justice system alike.
• The future of forensic imaging might include AI, enhancing the ways we detect pathology.
• It's crucial to advocate for forensic imaging in every state for justice and answers.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• University of New Mexico
• New Mexico Office of Medical Investigator

forensic imaging, forensic radiology, crime investigations, medical imaging, radiologic technology, CT scans, X-ray imaging, justice through science, identity verification, cause of end of life determination, medical imaging education, radiology career opportunities, forensic pathologist, crime scene investigation, radiologic technology programs, imaging techniques in forensics, closure for families, importance of imaging in justice, radiology technology advancements, forensic imaging certifications

Mentioned in this episode:

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If I were starting Radiologic Technology School today, I’d definitely approach it with a different mindset! Let’s be real, this journey is gonna test everything from your patience to your sanity—seriously! So whether you’re gearing up for this wild ride or just kicked it off, I’ve got some golden nuggets to share that I wish someone had handed me on day one. From learning the “why” behind the “how” to surrounding yourself with sticky notes like they’re your new best friends, we’re diving into tips that’ll not only help you survive but thrive! Trust me, you’ll want to soak up these insights—your future self will thank you when you’re rocking those clinical shifts like a pro. Grab a notebook and let’s get into the good stuff!

Diving into the wild world of Radiologic Technology, our latest episode takes a refreshing detour down the memory lane of what we wish we knew before embarking on this journey. I mean, let’s be honest, if I had a nickel for every time I thought, ‘Why didn’t anyone tell me that?!’, I could probably fund a whole semester’s worth of textbooks! So, if you’re gearing up to start or have just dipped your toes into Radiologic Technology school, grab that trusty notebook because I've got some golden nuggets of wisdom to share.

First up, it’s all about the ‘why’! Forget rote memorization of the ‘how’—understanding the reasoning behind procedures not only makes you a better tech, it earns you major respect in the imaging world. I also talk about the life-changing power of sticky notes. Seriously, they’re like magical little reminders that can help you conquer those tricky anatomy terms when the going gets tough. And let’s not forget the importance of studying to understand, not just to ace tests. Trust me, when you grasp the concepts, those pesky exam questions start to make sense!

Beyond school tips, I dive into the realities of clinicals. Treat every placement like a job interview—because, spoiler alert: it kinda is! Show up early, help out, and ask those burning questions. You never know who might be hiring in the future! Plus, let’s not overlook the importance of taking care of your mental health. The pressure can be intense, and burnout is real—so don’t forget to breathe, have lunch with friends, and remember your worth!

Takeaways:

• Starting Radiologic Technology School? Remember to learn the 'why' behind procedures, not just the 'how'.
• Sticky notes are your best friends in school; use them everywhere to remember important concepts.
• Always study to truly understand the material, not just to ace the tests and get good grades.
• It's totally okay to say 'I don't know'—it builds trust and shows that you're eager to learn.

radiologic technology school, tips for radiologic students, how to succeed in radiology, radiologic technologist advice, anatomy study tips, radiology clinical experience, student radiologic technologist, self-care for radiology students, professional behavior in radiology, effective study habits for radiology, understanding radiologic concepts, radiology program challenges, making the most of clinicals, radiologic technology tips, learning anatomy for radiology, career in radiologic technology, radiology program preparation, mastering radiologic techniques, importance of asking questions in radiology, building confidence in radiology practice

© 2025 A Couple of Rad Techs Podcast

This trailer episode of A Couple of Rad Techs shares how CT scans are changing the game when it comes to forensic radiology and imaging, especially with the shortage of pathologists.

Subscribe to the podcast to hear the full episode coming Monday!

In this trailer episode, Cheryl Peachey provides an exclusive look into the world of forensic imaging. Discover the daily routine of a forensic imager, including early morning equipment preparation, the role of morphology technicians, and the detailed scanning process. Learn about the importance of case presentations and the teamwork required to manage the workload efficiently. Don't miss the full episode coming this Monday!

forensic imaging, forensic science, Cheryl Peachey, morphology technicians, scanning process, case presentations, forensic technology, forensic imaging workflow, forensic imaging techniques

How Radiologic Technologists Help Solve Crimes

Feeling stuck in your 30s and wondering if a career in healthcare could be your second chance? You're not alone, and I've been there too! I share my personal journey of starting over after closing a business and leaving a radiology program due to illness. Trust me, moving back home and driving FedEx trucks wasn’t my dream scenario, but it led me to rediscover my passion for healthcare and become a radiology technologist. In this episode, I dive into the nitty-gritty of evaluating healthcare careers through the lens of time, money, lifestyle, and longevity. So, if you're looking for a fresh start, let’s explore how healthcare could be your golden ticket to a fulfilling future!

Starting fresh in your 30s (or even 40s) can feel like you’re diving into the deep end without a life jacket, right? Well, grab your floaties, because I've got a personal story that just might inspire you to take that plunge. Picture this: I was in my 20s, freshly out of a business venture that didn't quite go as planned, feeling like a deflated balloon. I had to pack up my life, leave a radiology program due to illness, and sell almost everything I owned. Yep, I went from independent adult to moving back into my childhood bedroom. Cue the dramatic music! But here's the kicker: driving FedEx trucks became my gig while I rebuilt my life. Crazy, right? This journey led me to rediscover my passion for healthcare, and I eventually became a radiology technologist. So, if you're a woman in your 30s feeling stuck or burned out, this episode is your personal lifeline. We break down the essentials of evaluating a career in healthcare, so you don’t just dive in blind. I dive into the framework of time, money, lifestyle, and longevity—no need to waste precious resources! We’ll navigate the waters together, exploring how a career in healthcare can be your second chance. Forget the fear; let’s talk about how you can pivot your career and make meaningful changes that align with who you are today!

Takeaways:

• Starting over in your 20s can be terrifying, but it often leads to growth and new opportunities.
• Healthcare careers are generally recession-proof, making them a smart choice for job security.
• When considering a career change, evaluate time, money, lifestyle, and longevity to make informed choices.
• It's never too late to pivot your career; your 30s can be the perfect time for a fresh start in healthcare.
• Medical imaging offers various pathways, allowing for flexibility and future growth in your career.
• Choosing a healthcare career involves understanding the balance of stress, rewards, and your personal well-being.

radiologic technology, healthcare career change, midlife career pivot, starting over in healthcare, medical imaging careers, radiologic technologist salary, healthcare job stability, career options in radiology, radiology program duration, flexibility in healthcare careers, tuition for medical imaging, pursuing a career in healthcare, benefits of medical imaging, burnout in healthcare jobs, career growth in healthcare, adult education in healthcare, mid-30s career transition, lifestyle in healthcare professions, stress in healthcare jobs, longevity in medical careers

© 2025 A Couple of Rad Techs Podcast

How Hospitals Are Paying Off $37,500 in Rad Tech Debt

www.clasp.com/coupleofradtechs

Struggling with the huge cost of becoming a radiologic technologist? You’re not alone. In this episode, Chaundria dive deep into the reality of student loan debt for radiologic technologists and introduce a game-changing solution: hospital loan repayment programs offering up to $37,500 toward your rad tech school debt.

You’ll hear firsthand stories about the burden of education costs, the frustrations of hunting for scholarships, and the overwhelming pressure of student loans. But there’s hope! Discover CLASP—a new bridge between hospitals in need of technologists and recent grads weighed down by debt. Find out how you can connect directly with hospitals offering real, no-gimmicks student loan repayment without waiting years or navigating endless fine print.

Whether you’re a current rad tech student, recent graduate, or considering a career in radiologic technology, this episode is packed with financial advice, resources, and step-by-step guidance on how to take advantage of these incredible repayment opportunities.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The true cost of radiologic technology programs and the debt crisis facing new grads
• Why traditional options like scholarships and loans often fall short
• An overview of CLASP and how it connects techs to hospitals offering student loan repayment up to $37,500
• How the application process works (spoiler: it takes just five minutes!)
• What hospitals and regions are currently offering these programs
• How these benefits can relieve financial stress and reduce burnout in the radiology field
• Tips for applying and maximizing your opportunities as a recent grad or soon-to-be radiologic technologist

Key Resources Mentioned:

• Apply for hospital loan repayment with CLASP
• Follow Chaun’s Instagram for updates and real-life success stories
• Explore partner hospitals currently hiring and offering loan repayment (Boston Children’s, Trinity Health, Ohio Health, Rochester Regional, and more)

Join the Conversation:

Have you applied for hospital loan repayment? Do you have tips or experiences to share? Leave a comment below or connect with us on Instagram! Your story could help inspire other rad techs on their financial journey.

Listen Now & Start Your Journey to Debt Relief!

If you’re ready to step into your rad tech career with less financial stress, don’t wait—explore the hospital partners and apply for student loan repayment opportunities with CLASP today.

Subscribe & Share:

If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend who could use a financial boost and subscribe for more insights and resources tailored to radiologic technologists!

Show Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by CLASP. Learn how you can work in radiology and get up to $37,500 of your loans repaid by partnering hospitals. Check out clasp.com/coupleofradtechs for more info.

You don’t have to choose between your passion and your financial stability. Hospitals need rad techs, and you deserve help paying for your education! Listen in and take the next step toward a debt-free future in radiologic technology.

Links referenced in this episode:

• clasp.com/coupleofradtechs

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• CLASP
• Boston Children's Hospital
• Trinity Health Saint Alphonsus
• Ohio Health
• Rochester Regional Health
• radiology partners
• Arkansas Children's

© 2025 A Couple of Rad Techs Podcast

• Beyond Exhaustion:
• Burnout isn’t just about long hours or heavy workloads (although those don’t help). Sean discusses how feeling stuck and lacking growth opportunities hits medical imaging professionals hard, often leading to disengagement and questioning one’s path.
• Personal Breaking Points:
• Sean shares candid stories about his own burnout moments, including struggles with certification and feeling unseen in the workplace. If you’ve ever sat in your car after a shift, wondering if anyone notices your effort, this conversation will resonate.
• How the ASRT Makes a Difference:
• Discover how connecting with others through the ASRT changed the trajectory of Sean’s career and mindset. From volunteer opportunities and mentorship to leadership development and advocacy, the ASRT provides valuable resources for technologists at every stage.
• Actionable Steps for Rad Techs:
• Learn simple steps to reenergize your career—whether it’s attending an ASRT event, volunteering, participating in a networking group, or exploring leadership training. Community, growth, and a sense of purpose are essential antidotes to burnout.

Takeaways & Resources:

• Burnout often looks like silence, disengagement, or “going numb”—not just physical fatigue.
• Growth and connection are vital: You’re not lazy or broken if you crave change.
• The ASRT offers more than CE credits: think advocacy, volunteer roles, networking, and leadership programs.
• Take the step: Visit asrt.org, explore events, directed readings, and volunteer possibilities.
• “Connection is the antidote to burnout.” Share this episode with a colleague who needs to hear it.

Recommended Links:

• ASRT Events & Conferences
• ASRT Volunteer Pathways
• ASRT Leadership Development Program
• A Couple of Rad Techs Podcast – More Episodes

If This Episode Helped You:

Hit subscribe, leave a review, and share with another rad tech or therapist who might feel alone in their struggles. Your peace is the most important protocol you’ll ever protect.

Connect with Us:

• Comment your burnout stories below—how did you make it through?
• Follow for more honest, practical conversations about life in radiologic technology.

SEO Tags: radiologic technologist burnout, radiation therapist career growth, ASRT, medical imaging community, fighting burnout in radiology, professional development for rad techs, radiologic tech support, radiology CEU, imaging technologist wellness, healthcare burnout solutions

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Mentioned in this episode:

Silence Is a Warning Sign: Why Disconnection Is Killing Your Career

We're diving into some real talk about how to kickstart your career in radiology. Today, I'm answering your burning questions—everything from how to get into MRI tech without a fancy degree to the nitty-gritty on whether radiation is actually dangerous for us techs. Spoiler alert: it’s not as scary as it sounds, and I’m here to clear up those misconceptions! We’re also chatting about the money side of things—because let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to know which modalities can help pad the wallet? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the world of medical imaging, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s get this Q&A party started!

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to step into the world of radiology, you’re in for a treat! In this lively episode, Chaundria takes us on a journey through the frequently asked questions that have been pouring in from her social media followers. With a casual tone that feels like a chat over coffee, she tackles everything from the pathways to becoming an MRI tech to the realities of radiation exposure for techs. One of the standout moments is her breakdown of the educational requirements—turns out, you don’t need a fancy bachelor’s degree to get started in this field!

What’s truly refreshing is how Chaundria blends her professional expertise with relatable anecdotes, ensuring that listeners feel both informed and entertained. For instance, she addresses concerns surrounding radiation safety with a mix of solid facts and a light-hearted approach, reassuring aspiring techs that the risk is considerably low with proper safety measures in place. Throughout the episode, there’s a palpable sense of camaraderie as Chaundria encourages her audience to explore their options and think strategically about their careers.

And just when you think the episode can’t get any better, she dives into the money side of things, discussing which modalities might bring in more cash. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just curious about the field, this episode promises to be both enlightening and enjoyable, leaving listeners with a better grasp of radiology and perhaps even a few laughs along the way!

Takeaways:

• To become an MRI tech in the US, you don't need a BSc; an associate's degree will do!
• Radiology offers various pathways, so think strategically about your education and certifications.
• Working in radiology does not significantly increase cancer risks; safety protocols are in place.
• If you want to switch modalities, explore additional certifications to boost your marketability.
• Before investing in a radiology program, check how your criminal record might affect licensing.
• Different radiology modalities offer varying salaries; research is key to knowing your worth.

Links referenced in this episode:

• racheltheradiographer.com

radiology, MRI technologist, medical imaging, radiologic technology, ARRT certification, radiologic sciences, healthcare careers, radiation safety, medical imaging education, radiology job market, cross-training modalities, radiation therapy, ultrasound technology, interventional radiology, dosimetry, healthcare certifications, radiology Q&A, radiology podcast, career advancement in radiology, medical imaging professions

© 2025 A Couple of Rad Techs Podcast

In this episode of A Couple of Rad Techs, Chaundria explores the rapid evolution of medical imaging and what it means for radiologic technologists on the front lines. From AI-driven image reconstruction to hybrid imaging modalities, the landscape is changing fast. But staying relevant doesn’t always mean working with brand-new equipment. Chaundria discusses how technologists can build confidence and stay career-ready through ASRT’s Directed Readings, webinars, and advocacy efforts. She also breaks down the common fear of falling behind and offers real-world strategies for keeping your edge, even in a facility that hasn’t upgraded in years. Whether you’re a CT, MRI, or X-ray tech—or just trying to pivot into something new—this episode will help you rethink what growth looks like in today’s imaging environment.

👉 Tune in now to learn how to turn CEUs into career power—and why your ASRT membership matters more than ever.

Ready to dive into the ever-evolving world of medical imaging? This episode is all about how radiologic technologists can totally keep their edge as AI and new imaging modalities shake things up. We're talking about the ASRT, which isn’t just your go-to for CEUs, but a powerhouse for career advancement and professional advocacy. Chaundria spills the tea on how to navigate changes in the field, even if you're stuck with equipment that’s older than your favorite pair of sneakers. Plus, we’ll explore how tools like Directed Readings and webinars can help you stay ahead of the game. So if you're feeling a bit lost or just want to level up your rad tech game, this convo is definitely for you!

Takeaways:

• Artificial intelligence is reshaping medical imaging, and understanding its role is crucial for technologists.
• Your skills as a radiologic technologist aren't defined by the age of your scanner; it's about knowledge and adaptability.
• Staying competitive means embracing continuing education, which is key for career resilience in radiology.
• The ASRT offers valuable resources like directed readings and webinars that can help you stay ahead in your profession.

Links referenced in this episode:

• asrt.org

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• ASRT

© 2025 A Couple of Rad Techs Podcast