Have you ever wondered what it would take to make the shift from an RN to a CRNA? Would it be manageable? Today we’re sharing our conversation with two talented women who are in the middle of that process right now. Larry and Kevin sat down with Jasmine Dhalla, BSN, BLS, ACLS, PALS, CCRN, TNCC and Damilola Olarenwaju, BSN, RN, CCRN, TNCC at the AANA Congress in Nashville so they could share their powerful journeys as ICU nurses taking their first steps toward nurse anesthesia school.  

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

💡 “Why” moments matter: Passion often starts with a powerful, personal experience.

👩‍⚕️ Mentorship is transformative: One connection can change your entire trajectory.

🌍 Conferences are game-changers: Network with CRNAs, residents, and program directors.

🧠 Education is empowerment: RNs are embracing advanced learning and evidence-based practice.

Connect with Damilola: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damilola-o-91812bb4/

Apply to be on the Grade 1 View Season Two (2026) Host Team!

Applications due November 1, 2025. Applicants must be current CRNA students/residents with a minimum of 12 months remaining in their program.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/g1v-host-application

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/grade-1-view/

Visit the AANA Resident Hub: https://www.aana.com/resident-hub/ 

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246