In this episode, we delve into the rapidly growing field of virtual nursing, uncovering its transformative impact on patient care and the healthcare workforce. Joining us are two women with differing experiences in virtual nursing who share their unique perspectives: one who transitioned to virtual care after decades in bedside nursing and another who assists the profession from a partner collaboration. Together, they discuss the skills essential for success, the challenges of connecting with patients remotely, and the opportunities this innovative role brings. Whether you're a nursing student exploring emerging career paths or a healthcare professional curious about the future of nursing, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

In this episode, Jeff and Aspen take listeners on an in-depth journey through the University of Texas at Arlington’s nursing programs and broader health care disciplines. They discuss UTA’s innovative approaches to nursing education, highlighting how the programs are tailored to meet the needs of Texas’s diverse communities, including rural areas. Together, Jeff and Aspen dive into how UTA’s health care programs go beyond nursing to include allied health fields, emphasizing the university's holistic approach to training skilled health professionals ready to make a difference. With anecdotes and expert perspectives, they unpack what makes UTA a leader in preparing students for the challenges and opportunities in today’s health care landscape.

In this episode, we explore the journey to becoming a postpartum nurse, diving into the educational path, the unique challenges, and the rewards of this vital nursing specialty. You'll hear from an experienced postpartum nurse who shares her non-traditional route into the field, the day-to-day responsibilities of caring for new mothers and their babies, and the essential skills needed to thrive in this role. Whether you're a nursing student contemplating your future or a seasoned nurse looking to specialize, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration for anyone interested in this critical area of healthcare.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of nurse anesthesia, exploring the educational journey, the challenges, and the rewards of this highly specialized nursing career. You'll hear from an experienced nurse anesthetists about her unconventional pathway into the field, the day-to-day responsibilities, and the skills needed to excel. Whether you're a nursing student considering your next steps or a seasoned nurse looking to specialize, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone interested in this critical role in healthcare.

Join Aspen and Jeff as they delve into the unique aspects of the Rural Residency Program at UTA's College of Nursing and Health Innovation (CONHI). Discover how this innovative professional development program is shaping the future of healthcare in rural communities, offering invaluable experiences and opportunities for new healthcare professionals. Tune in to learn about the challenges and rewards of rural healthcare, and how UTA CONHI is making a difference.

In this episode, hosts Aspen Drude and Dr. Jeffrey Taylor chat with Dr. Jason Rosenfeld, a public health professional with over 20 years of experience designing, implementing and evaluating international and domestic community health education and behavior change programs. Tune in as they explore the necessity of a global perspective in addressing social determinants of health, the critical role of community involvement in public health decision-making, the empowerment of community health workers, and the importance of a responsible and inclusive approach to public health.

In this episode, hosts Aspen Drude and Dr. Jeffrey Taylor chat with Henry Paschall and Jade Morrison, recent graduates of the University of Texas at Arlington with bachelors of science in public health. Tune in as they delve into their award-winning group presentation on HIV awareness in the black community, their educational experiences at UTA and the motivations behind choosing public health, strategies for crafting an effective advocacy plan, the significance of collaboration and forming partnerships, and their aspirations post-graduation.

In this episode, hosts Aspen Drude and Dr. Jeffrey Taylor chat with Dr. Cary Cain, MPH, RN, assistant professor in the Division of Public Health Pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine. Dr. Cain shares insights into her impactful public health journey, reflecting on her transformative experiences as a school nurse and her ongoing research endeavors. Delve into the crucial role of community health workers in supporting communities, the intersection of gun violence and pediatrics, and the imperative of advocacy in addressing health disparities. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on public health, community empowerment, and driving positive change.

In this episode, hosts Aspen Drude and Dr. Jeffrey Taylor chat with Dr. Erin Carlson, clinical professor at University of Texas at Arlington’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation where she is the founding Director of Graduate Public Health Programs. The three talk about Dr. Carlson's public health journey and childhood influences, transitioning to academia, her passion in infectious diseases and social determinants of health, global health work and its impact on her career trajectory, and creating a public health program at UTA. 

In this episode, hosts Aspen Drude and Dr. Jeffrey Taylor chat with Dr. Ziyad Ben Taleb, an assistant professor and the director of the Nicotine and Tobacco Research Laboratory at the University of Texas at Arlington. The three talk about Dr. Taleb's public health journey, his research focused on smoking, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, hookah and cannabis, creating and managing UTA's Eliminate Tobacco event, and advocating for policy change.