Live from South College

What does it really mean to care for someone's mental health? For Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs), the answer goes far beyond diagnosing conditions and prescribing medications. It's about understanding the whole person and helping patients build healthier, more resilient lives.

In this episode of LIVE From South College, host Kathleen Stockham welcomes Dr. Shawn Malugin, Graduate Nursing Faculty Member at South College, for an engaging conversation about the growing field of psychiatric mental health nursing and the important role these advanced practice nurses play in today's healthcare environment.

Dr. Malugin shares his perspective on holistic mental healthcare, the connection between brain health and physical well-being, and why treating mental health conditions requires more than medication alone. He also explores the diverse career settings available to PMHNPs, from hospitals and private practices to telehealth, community mental health centers, and beyond.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• What Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners do and where they work.
• How South College's MSN Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences.
• Why holistic, individualized approaches are essential to effective mental healthcare.
• Common misconceptions about psychiatric nursing and mental health treatment.
• What prospective students should consider before pursuing a PMHNP degree.
• The importance of CCNE accreditation, national certification, and state licensure.
• How lifelong learning, personal growth, and resilience shape successful healthcare professionals.

The conversation also takes a personal turn as Dr. Malugin shares his lifelong fascination with the human brain, his passion for teaching, and his philosophy that personal and professional growth are part of the same journey.

Whether you're a registered nurse considering an advanced nursing degree, a healthcare professional exploring a new specialty, or simply interested in the future of mental healthcare, this episode offers valuable insights into a profession dedicated to improving lives.

Learn more about South College's Master of Science in Nursing programs and explore your next step at www.south.edu.

LIVE From South College — Let Your Dreams Find Direction.

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction. 

SPECIAL CUT Perspectives: Inside PA School With PA Faculty

What does a PA program director look for in future Physician Assistant students — and what makes the PA profession such an appealing career path?

In this SPECIAL CUT of LIVE From South College, host Kathleen Stockham talks with Timothy Calcagni, Program Director and Physician Assistant at South College Asheville, for a faculty perspective on PA education, admissions, and the profession itself.

Tim shares the story of South College Asheville's PA program and discusses the qualities he sees in successful PA students, including academic preparation, patient care experience, enthusiasm, intellectual curiosity, communication skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

He also explains why the PA profession continues to attract students, including the ability to practice medicine across different specialties and the flexibility PAs can have throughout their careers.

And for future applicants, Tim offers insight into the competitive PA school admissions and interview process — although Kathleen does her best to get him to reveal a few interview secrets.

In this Special Cut:

• Why the PA profession continues to grow
• What makes the PA career path unique
• What PA programs may look for in competitive applicants
• Why patient care experience can matter
• What faculty are looking for during the interview process
• The importance of curiosity, communication, and professionalism
• Tim's own journey from PA student to emergency medicine clinician to PA educator
• What makes the student experience at South College Asheville special

Whether you're preparing to apply to PA school, researching the profession, or simply wondering what PA faculty look for in future students, this Special Cut provides a firsthand perspective from someone helping educate the next generation of healthcare providers.

There is a pathway for you at South College.

Explore Physician Assistant programs at South College and find additional resources, application guidance, student and faculty perspectives, and more through the South College PA Content Hub.

Let your dreams find direction.

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction. 

SPECIAL CUT Perspectives: Life As a PA Student

What is PA school really like?

In this SPECIAL CUT of LIVE From South College, host Kathleen Stockham sits down with South College Physician Assistant student Samantha Strauss for an inside look at life as a PA student — from the intensity of the classroom to earning her white coat and preparing for clinical rotations.

Samantha shares why she chose the PA path, what drew her to South College, and what surprised her most about the experience. She also talks candidly about the pace and rigor of PA school, finding balance outside the classroom, building strong relationships with classmates, and gaining meaningful experience through community service.

You'll also hear Samantha's perspective on the PA school interview process, the importance of staying confident when applying, and why prospective students shouldn't get caught up comparing their journey to someone else's.

In this Special Cut:

• Why Samantha chose the PA profession
• What the PA school interview experience was really like
• Balancing the demands of PA school with life outside the classroom
• The friendships and support system that develop within a PA cohort
• Hands-on learning and community service opportunities
• Making the transition from didactic learning to clinical rotations
• Samantha's advice for future PA applicants: take the chance and apply

If you're considering becoming a Physician Assistant — or wondering what life inside PA school actually looks like — this Special Cut offers a firsthand perspective from someone living it.

There is a pathway for you at South College.

Learn more about Physician Assistant programs at South College and explore additional PA resources, application guidance, student perspectives, and more through the South College PA Content Hub.

Let your dreams find direction.

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction. 

Already a Surgical Technologist?  Wondering what your next step is?

Thinking About Surgical Technology?

Exploring the Future of Surgical Technology Education with Chris Blevins! Join us as we dive into the new Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Post-Surgical Technology program at South College. Chris Blevins, senior chair of surgical technology, shares insights on this advanced pathway, industry trends, and the importance of passionate, well-trained surgical technologists.

In this episode:

• Announcement and details of the new BS in Health Science, Post-Surgical Technology program
• The evolution of surgical technology from certificate to doctoral levels
• How the program provides career growth for surgical technologists in management and education
• Industry demand for highly skilled surgical techs and specialization in robotics and complex procedures
• The importance of certifications and hands-on skills in surgical tech careers
• Strategies for working professionals balancing education and clinical work
• The impact of technology and evolving procedures on surgical education
• Tips for aspiring surgical technologists: preparation, mindset, and key skills
• Personal updates from Chris Blevins, including her master's and doctorate pursuits
• Fun insights into what professionals carry in their “bag" in clinical settings
• Realistic portrayals of surgical and emergency room environments in popular media

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and overview of South College's surgical technology programs
 02:15 - Introducing the new Bachelor of Science in Health Science, Post-ST Program
 04:33 - The pathway from associate degrees to doctoral programs in surgical tech
 05:57 - Why certifications and hands-on experience are highly valued in hospitals
 07:15 - Careers beyond the operating room: management, education, and PA pathways
 09:44 - Industry trends: robotic surgery and high-tech procedures
 11:56 - The importance of communication and specialization in patient care
 14:08 - How the program supports working professionals—online offerings and flexibility
 15:51 - Certification process and student eligibility for the BS program
 17:46 - Personal journey: Chris’s educational achievements and leadership roles
 20:22 - The value of flexible learning formats like Competency Based Education (CBE)
 23:16 - Advice for prospective surgical tech students: what to know before starting
 26:20 - The skills and qualities that make a successful surgical technologist
 28:04 - Fun segment: What's in Chris Blevins' surgical bag?
 30:15 - The role of outreach demonstrations in inspiring students
 32:35 - Realistic media portrayals: Grey's Anatomy and The Pit
 36:01 - The emotional resilience required in labor and delivery
 37:55 - Supporting students' mental health and stress management
 44:41 - The "Mary Poppins" bag: essentials for surgical techs and educators
 50:16 - Tips for students: what to bring and avoid in clinical settings
 53:07 - Guidelines on jewelry, piercings, and personal hygiene
 55:17 - Maintaining confidentiality: cell phones and patient privacy
 58:02 - What students should do more of to excel in surgical tech training
 60:48 - The importance of rigor, process, and passion in surgical technology
 62:25 - Final thoughts: join us at South College and explore your future in surgical tech

Note:

If you're passionate about healthcare, technology, and education, this episode is your gateway to understanding how South College prepares surgical technologists for the future!

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction. 

What is South College Pittsburgh really like?  Will you have a support system in place at South College as a student?  What is the Pre-Nursing Program like or the BSN program like at South College?  Can you really work AND go to school?  We have answers for you! 

Discover the vibrant culture and unique programs at South College Pittsburgh through an engaging conversation with Peggy Brinton, Dean of Academic and Student Services. From hands-on surgical tech to inspiring student journeys, this episode offers insights into healthcare education, campus community, and student support. Main topics:

• The growth and location advantages of South College Pittsburgh
• Highlights of the surgical technology program and its media recognition
• Day-to-day life and interactions as a Dean and supporter of student success
• Student stories: From pre-nursing to BSN, balancing work, and future ambitions
• Tips for prospective students about online studies, staying motivated, and making the most of campus resources

In this episode:

• Peggy discusses how Pittsburgh's location benefits students and staff, emphasizing easy access to healthcare facilities
• A detailed look at the surgical tech program, featuring its TV appearances and hands-on labs that excite students
• The importance of campus engagement, community visits, and personal interactions for student success
• Student Jalina Hawkins shares her inspiring journey from pre-nursing to a senior BSN student juggling multiple jobs
• Practical advice for new students, including finding study groups, staying organized, and remembering your 'why'
• The significance of communication with faculty and deans during challenging times
• The personal style and background story of Peggy Brinton, revealing her journey from real estate to healthcare education
• The power of students' stories—like Jelena’s goal to become a nurse educator—and how South College nurtures future healthcare leaders

Learn more about south South College at https://www.south.edu/

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction. 

You've Graduated, Now What?  Or preparing for Graduation and need some help transitioning to work life or building your resume? 

Most graduates underestimate the power of lifelong community and career support—until they experience it firsthand. Discover how South College’s alumni network and tailored career services turn a graduation day milestone into a launchpad for lifelong success. 

South College’s alumni and career team of Ben Landers, Mary-Kathryn Arnold, and Jaime Lindbaugh reveal how your journey doesn’t end with a diploma—instead, it transforms into a lifelong connection filled with mentorship, opportunities, and growth. They share inspiring stories of alumni who turned perseverance into their calling, whether by returning to teach, mentoring students, or finding success in unexpected ways—like a custodian turned teacher simply because South College gave him the tools to succeed.

You’ll discover: how the alumni platform alumni.south.edu makes networking effortless, the importance of starting your career prep early, and practical tips for leveraging career services even as a new graduate. Learn how mentorship, community, and resources come together to keep you connected, confident, and on the path to your dreams. If you’re nearing graduation or just starting to think about your next chapter, this episode is essential listening—because success is a journey that’s best shared. 

Plus, hear firsthand from alumni who didn't just navigate their careers—they transformed obstacles into opportunities. Whether you’re an aspiring professional, returning student, or lifelong learner, this episode reveals the unique ways South College fosters a community that sticks with you—long after your tassel is turned. 

In this episode:

• The role of the Alumni Association in celebrating graduation and fostering lifelong community
• How South College’s platform, alumni.south.edu, connects graduates and offers ongoing career development
• The importance of mentorship and alumni engagement in career growth
• Practical tips for soon-to-be graduates: start early, leverage resources, stay adaptable
• Inspiring alumni success stories, including career transformations and overcoming personal challenges
• How South College's career services provide tailored support, mock interviews, resume optimization, and AI-driven tools
• The power of networking with current students and alumni for professional advancement
• Insights into the unique aspects of South College’s approach to education and lifelong support
• Personal stories from faculty, staff, and alumni celebrating achievement and perseverance

Resources & Links:

• South College Alumni Platform
• South College Career Services

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction. 

Need Help?  Looking for answers as a Student at South College?  What is the Student Experience Really About a South College?

Supporting Student Success: Insights from South College Advisors  - Join us in this episode as we explore the vital role of student success advisors at South College across multiple campuses. Discover stories of triumph, the importance of community, and practical tips for students starting their college journey—highlighting how personalized support transforms challenges into success. Key topics covered:

• The comprehensive role of Student Success Teams at Atlanta, Orlando, and Nashville campuses
• Personal success stories: overcoming academic hurdles and building community
• How advisors serve as mentors, cheerleaders, and crisis responders
• Critical early engagement strategies: communication, setting priorities, and celebrating wins
• The importance of understanding students' backgrounds and unique challenges
• Tips for new students: managing pace, seeking help early, and self-care
• The rewarding moments when students graduate and achieve their dreams
• The evolving career paths of veteran advisors and their advice for students
• Building authentic connections that foster student belonging and success
• The value of sharing personal experiences to inspire and motivate students

Keywords:

• Student Success
• South College
• Academic Support
• Student Advisors
• Higher Education
• Community Building
• Mentorship
• Crisis Intervention
• Student Engagement
• Graduation Success
• Personalized Support
• College Journey
• Educational Resources
• Student Challenges
• Advisor Insights

Resources & Links:

• South College Campus Programs
• Student Success Resources at South College

This episode showcases the passionate, dedicated professionals behind South College’s supportive environment. Whether you're a current or prospective student, or someone interested in higher education support roles, these stories and tips offer valuable insights into fostering success through genuine connection and personalized care.

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction. 

Thinking about PA School? Wish you could talk to those who have "been there" or in it right now?

Join us as we dive into the realities of physician assistant education, from student challenges to program excellence and career pathways, with students Cassidy and Bryce, and South College PA Program Director Dr. Jeffrey Peacock.

Main Topics:

• Challenges and rewards of PA school
• Key skills and experiences impacting clinical practice
• Program highlights and factors behind South College Nashville’s success
• Future trends in PA education and the role of doctorate degrees
• Advice for prospective PA students and application tips

In this episode:

• Cassidy and Bryce share their experiences managing the demanding PA curriculum
• Discussion on the importance of soft skills, such as communication and first impressions
• Insights into how previous work like hospitality and healthcare shaped their clinical readiness
• Program director Dr. Peacock emphasizes program excellence, faculty dedication, and the high pass rates
• Advice on how to strengthen your application and prepare for interviews
• A heartfelt story of military service and resilience from Dr. Peacock
• Insights into the evolving role of PAs with doctoral degrees and increased autonomy
• Personal insights into the balance of study, fun, and future planning for students

Timestamps:

00:20 - Challenges of navigating intense coursework 

01:23 - The peaks and valleys of medical knowledge growth 

02:10 - Building connections and overcoming isolation in PA programs 

03:19 - The significance of clinical tools and real-world preparation 

04:41 - The impact of soft skills and patient interactions 

05:50 - Insights on shadowing hours and practical experience 

06:54 - The importance of maintaining confidence and professionalism 

07:22 - The role of extracurricular experiences like hospitality 

08:44 - Shadowing in healthcare settings and first impressions 

10:02 - How fun and relaxation play a part in a rigorous program 

10:35 - Future pathways for PAs with doctoral degrees 

12:10 - Tips for applicants considering PA school at South College 

16:21 - The inspiring military background of Dr. Peacock 

19:47 - The significance of resilience, service, and grit in PA education 

22:25 - The rewarding nature of patient care and service mindset 

25:32 - Personal stories of growth from challenging student days 

26:55 - Final thoughts on applying and succeeding in PA programs

Resources & Links:

• South College Nashville PA Program
• South College Admissions
• Doctor of Medical Science at South College

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction. 

What is a Doctor of Education (or EdD)? Have you ever considered your own pathway in Education to become an EdD?  How hard is it to earn and what is the CBE program like? 

South College podcast, host Kathleen Stockham explores the Doctor of Education (EdD) program at South College, featuring insights from alumni Dr. Frazier Smith. The episode delves into the benefits of Competency-Based Education (CBE), the flexibility of the EdD program, and personal experiences from Dr. Smith's journey through the program.

Keywords

Doctor of Education, EdD, Competency-Based Education, CBE, South College, Frazier Smith, educational leadership, instructional design, dissertation, higher education

Takeaways

• The EdD program at South College offers a flexible, self-paced learning experience through Competency-Based Education (CBE).
• CBE allows students to progress at their own pace, focusing on areas where they need more study and moving quickly through familiar topics.
• The program includes one-to-one mentoring, creating a supportive community for students.
• Students can choose between a capstone or a dissertation to complete their doctoral degree.
• Dr. Frazier Smith shares his journey and the challenges he faced during his dissertation process.
• The EdD program prepares students for leadership roles in education, with specializations in areas like adult learning, higher education, and instructional design.
• Dr. Smith emphasizes the importance of building relationships with instructors and peers during the program.
• The program's subscription-based tuition structure offers financial flexibility for students.
• Dr. Smith's dissertation focused on aligning community college IT programs with industry needs in Charlotte, NC.
• The episode highlights the value of taking time to fully engage with the program rather than rushing through it.

Takeaways

• Navigating the EdD Journey: Insights from Dr. Frazier Smith
• Unlocking Educational Leadership with South College's EdD Program
• The Power of CBE: A Deep Dive into South College's EdD
• From IT to EdD: Dr. Frazier Smith's Educational Path
• Mastering Education: The EdD Experience at South College
• Building Educational Leaders: The South College EdD Advantage
• Dr. Frazier Smith on the Challenges and Triumphs of the EdD
• Competency-Based Education: Transforming the EdD Experience
• The EdD Journey: Balancing Flexibility and Rigor
• South College's EdD: A Pathway to Educational Excellence

Sound bites

CBE is self-paced and flexible. One-to-one mentoring is key. 

Choose capstone or dissertation. 

Dr. Smith's journey was challenging. 

Build relationships with instructors. 

Focus on areas needing more study. 

Subscription-based tuition offers flexibility. 

Aligning IT programs with industry needs. 

Take time to engage fully. 

Leadership roles in education await.

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction. 

Ready to meet your Chief Academic Officer?  Ever wondered who is "in charge" of what you are learning?  Need to know about your Tutoring Options?  Did you know you had any?

In Episode 38 of the Live from South College podcast, Kathleen Stockham and Dr. Danielle Kwasnik get deep into the Academic World. Dr. Kwasnik shares her journey to becoming the Chief Academic Officer, emphasizing servant leadership, the significance of academic integrity, and the value of learning from every experience. She also discusses the greatness of having opportunities show themselves to you and possibly to live “unplanned.” The episode also highlights the supportive culture at South College and offers advice to students on perseverance and embracing opportunities. Kathleen also discusses the robust tutoring options available at South College, both on-ground and online, and the importance of mentorship through the alumni association

Keywords

South College, tutoring options, mentorship, academic integrity, servant leadership, supportive culture, perseverance, learning opportunities, Chief Academic Officer, Danielle Kwasnik

Takeaways

• South College offers extensive tutoring options for both on-ground and online students.
• Mentorship is available through the alumni association, connecting students with graduates.
• Dr. Danielle Kwasnick emphasizes the importance of servant leadership in her role.
• Academic integrity is crucial for long-term success and professional readiness.
• Learning from every experience, both inside and outside the classroom, is vital.
• South College fosters a supportive culture where students are more than just numbers.
• Perseverance and hard work are key to achieving academic and career goals.
• Embracing opportunities and being open to change can lead to unexpected success.
• Dr. Kwasnik’s journey to her current role was unplanned but rewarding.
• The podcast encourages students to trust the process and utilize available resources.

Listener Experience

• Unlocking Success: South College's Tutoring and Mentorship
• Servant Leadership and Academic Integrity at South College

• The Power of Perseverance and Support at South College

• Navigating Challenges with Dr. Danielle Kwasnik
• From Tutoring to Mentorship: Resources at South College
• Trusting the Process: Advice for South College Students
• A Conversation on Leadership and Learning with Dr. Kwasnik

Sound bites

• "South College offers 24/7 tutoring in 161 subjects."
• "Mentorship connects students with alumni who understand their journey."
• "Servant leadership is about jumping in to help others."
• "Academic integrity is key to professional success."
• "Every experience is a learning opportunity."
• "At South College, students are more than just numbers."
• "Perseverance leads to unexpected success."
• "Embrace change and seize opportunities."
• "Trust the process and utilize resources."
• "Leadership is about action and support."

Got a question? Have some feedback? Email us at [email protected] or come visit us at www.south.edu.  Follow us on social media too.  The Live from South College Podcast is your source for all South College activity including new student information, deeps dive’s into our 100+ programs, and concentrations,  “Tools of the Trade,” and even Live on location from all of our campuses! Great interviews with Faculty, Staff, Deans and hear from South College students and alumni in their own words. From Certificates all the way to Doctoral degrees, catch up with “Live from South College” for the lighter side of helping your dreams find direction.