Shadow Me Next!

Unlock the secrets of a fulfilling career transition with Heather Stansel, an advanced registered nurse practitioner who shares her remarkable journey from pediatrics to aesthetics. For anyone considering a career in nursing or contemplating a shift in specialties, Heather's story offers valuable insights and practical advice. Hear firsthand how a simple high school aptitude test set her on a path that would eventually redefine her professional pursuits.

Discover the intricacies of moving from one medical specialty to another, as Heather recounts her experiences and the challenges she faced during her transition. Her move into aesthetics wasn't just about mastering Botox and fillers; it was a deep dive into communication and confidence, skills she honed in pediatrics that seamlessly translated into the world of aesthetics. Explore how her ability to soothe anxious parents became a transformative tool in building trust with her aesthetics clients, offering a unique perspective on patient care.

Addressing social media's impact on self-worth, Heather delves into the essential conversations medical professionals must have with patients seeking aesthetic treatments. Join us as we explore the collaborative spirit within the aesthetics industry, where diverse opinions and teamwork lead to enhanced patient outcomes. Be inspired by the rewarding nature of helping individuals overcome insecurities and gain confidence, and learn how you can connect with Heather and other professionals for more insights. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode and join our community on social media for future updates and discussions.

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Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.  

Have you ever wondered how someone can transition from the skies of Alaska to the frontlines of healthcare? Meet Hector Bird, our fascinating guest who did just that. A former pilot turned physician assistant, Hector shares his journey from aviation to acute care, driven by a passion for patient interaction and making a difference. This episode promises insights into the versatility of the PA profession, emphasizing the remarkable career shifts possible within the realm of healthcare.

Listen as Hector reflects on his experiences at the University of Florida, where the camaraderie and support from both peers and faculty became a cornerstone of his professional development. His anecdotes reveal the vital role of mentorship and friendships formed during PA school, illustrating the journey from students to lifelong colleagues. We explore how these relationships foster resilience and competence, shaping not just knowledgeable practitioners but compassionate caregivers as well.

Whether it's providing urgent care at a patient's home or embracing non-traditional roles like working with disaster medical teams, Hector's career exemplifies the dynamic opportunities available to PAs. We delve into the nuances of the PA's role across various medical fields, highlighting the importance of understanding practice-specific responsibilities. Join us for this engaging episode that celebrates the collaborative essence of healthcare and the impact of personalized, compassionate care. Hector's story is a testament to the profound fulfillment found in helping others, whether you're in the air or on the ground.

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Please connect and say hello >>> Email me!              

Support shadow me next >>> Thank you!

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Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.  

What if our healthcare system is fundamentally flawed? Join us as we explore this provocative question with Dr. Lauren Atkins, a board-certified orthopedic specialist and co-owner of Gainesville Wellness and Performance Physical Therapy. With a doctorate in physical therapy and certification in manual therapy, Lauren brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, sharing her journey through the educational landscape and the financial hurdles that come with it. She offers a fresh perspective on the collaborative spirit of physical therapy, where diagnostic skills meet hands-on treatment to create a holistic healing experience, and discusses the integration of massage therapy for a comprehensive approach to patient care.

Listen in as Lauren reveals the intricacies of a physical therapist's day, from addressing common ailments like low back pain to maintaining career satisfaction amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. We also delve into the career trajectories available to physical therapy assistants and the importance of a supportive professional network. This episode is rich with insights into the dynamics of professional collaboration and the shared experiences of healthcare providers, making it a must-listen for anyone curious about the inner workings of physical therapy and the broader healthcare landscape.

For more about Dr. Lauren Atkins and her practice, please visit her website: https://www.gwpfit.com/

Support the show

Please connect and say hello >>> Email me!              

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Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.  

Discover the inspiring journey of Dr. Song, a second-year internal medicine resident whose path to medicine was shaped by personal health trials and a rich tapestry of cross-cultural experiences. She shares how childhood health challenges and a fascination with the contrasting medical landscapes of China and the U.S. fueled her passion for better patient care. Join us as Dr. Song opens up about her evolution from aspiring journalist to dedicated physician, with invaluable insights for international medical graduates and a heartwarming story about a 90-year-old practicing doctor.

Our conversation explores universal challenges in medical training, the crucial role of research, and the rewarding yet rigorous life of a resident. Dr. Song provides a candid account of balancing patient care with continuous learning and preparation for future career pathways, whether diving into subspecialties or beginning a practice. In addition, we encourage you to be part of our growing community by tuning in every Monday and sharing your thoughts and questions. Stay connected and inspired as we illuminate the human side of medicine through Dr. Song's stories of resilience and dedication.

Support the show

Please connect and say hello >>> Email me!              

Support shadow me next >>> Thank you!

Want to be a guest? >>>  Click here!

Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.  

In this engaging episode, I sit down with Leah White, a dedicated family medicine nurse practitioner at Celebrate Primary Care in Gainesville, Florida. Leah walks us through her fascinating journey in healthcare, sharing how her initial dreams of becoming a doctor were reshaped after an encounter with the formidable challenge of organic chemistry. Rather than deterred, Leah found her path in nursing, where she embraced roles as a health educator and critical care nurse. Her story is one of resilience and adaptability, guided by insightful mentors and a passion for the transformative direct primary care (DPC) model.

Leah opens up about the delicate balancing act of pursuing advanced nursing education while managing the demands of work and family life. She offers a unique perspective on the flexibility of nurse practitioner programs and the importance of blending theoretical learning with hands-on experience, particularly in critical care settings. As we explore the financial and organizational aspects of further education, Leah provides valuable advice for those navigating similar challenges, sharing her thoughts on managing costs and commitments without losing sight of one's goals.

In a model that emphasizes personalized patient care, Leah's role in direct primary care allows her to build lasting relationships with her patients. Her experiences highlight how DPC empowers practitioners to offer tailored health care through flexible scheduling and attentive communication. From hour-long appointments to weekend accessibility, Leah's approach ensures comprehensive care that resonates with her patients and builds trust. Tune in to discover how passion and dedication drive Leah’s work, and how the DPC model is reshaping the future of healthcare for both providers and patients alike.

To learn more about Leah and Celebrate Primary Care, a direct primary care medical practice serving businesses and individuals in Gainesville, Florida, visit their website: https://www.celebrateprimarycare.com/

Support the show

Please connect and say hello >>> Email me!              

Support shadow me next >>> Thank you!

Want to be a guest? >>>  Click here!

Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.  

Transitioning from PA school to a thriving family medicine practice isn't just a career shift; it's a journey filled with both hurdles and triumphs. In our latest episode, we bring you the inspiring story of Jessica Murray, a dedicated family medicine Physician Assistant making her mark in a small Florida town. Jessica opens up about the challenges she faced during the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic and how she found empowerment by emphasizing the importance of community support and self-reflection. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and relationships in building a fulfilling medical career.

We also explore the multifaceted experiences that come with gap years and their critical role in shaping personal and professional identity in healthcare. Jessica shares her insights on maintaining a healthy balance between personal life and career demands, offering thoughtful advice for aspiring PAs. Her anecdotes about the pressures of clinical rotations and the strength found in community support provide a candid look at the realities of medical training. Mentorship emerges as a pivotal theme, with supportive preceptors playing a key role in guiding her journey and shaping her approach to patient care and teamwork.

In her current role, Jessica is excited about the potential of group medicine visits to enhance patient education and empowerment, demonstrating her commitment to patient-centered care. Her unique path to a collaborative healthcare setting highlights the benefits of a supportive and diverse medical team. Through her experiences, she underscores the significance of aligning career choices with personal values and fostering a supportive work environment, offering invaluable insights for anyone pursuing a meaningful path in medicine.

Support the show

Please connect and say hello >>> Email me!              

Support shadow me next >>> Thank you!

Want to be a guest? >>>  Click here!

Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.  

Join us as Dr. Blaire Banfield, an emergency medicine attending physician, shares her extraordinary journey from aspiring psychologist to a life-saving ER physician. Discover how her experiences in neuropsychology, working with dementia and Parkinson’s patients, ignited her passion for medicine and prompted her to pursue medical school at Harvard and the University of Florida. Blaire's narrative offers a compelling look at the challenges and triumphs faced along the way, proving that dedication and resilience can pave the way to achieving your dreams.

Dr. Banfield's story doesn't just stop at medical school. She unveils the rigorous yet rewarding world of medical training, from her experiences as a medical assistant and hospital tech to the whirlwind of completing her medical degree in 2020. Blaire provides a candid reflection on the nuances of medical school, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's career with personal passions and the critical role of hands-on experience. Her insights paint a vivid picture of the emotional and physical demands of becoming a physician, balanced by moments of profound fulfillment.

Finally, step into the dynamic world of emergency medicine as Dr. Banfield describes the unpredictable nature of night shifts in a community hospital's ER. She shares practical advice for pre-health students and residents, underscores the significance of teamwork in emergency care, and highlights the personal sacrifices required in this demanding field. As you listen, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience needed to thrive in healthcare and the incredible reward of making a tangible difference in patients' lives.

Considering a Postbaccalaureate Pre-medical Program? Here is more information:
https://students-residents.aamc.org/medical-student-well-being/considering-postbaccalaureate-premedical-program

Support the show

Please connect and say hello >>> Email me!              

Support shadow me next >>> Thank you!

Want to be a guest? >>>  Click here!

Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.  

Join us as we explore the compelling world of corrections nursing with Gabby, a dedicated registered nurse who never anticipated working in a prison setting. Her path to nursing was unexpected, sparked by a personal health crisis and the compassionate care of a nurse who changed her perspective on healthcare. Gabby invites us into her journey from aspiring physical therapist to nurse, sharing insights into the educational routes available, the challenges of nursing school, and the immense value of hands-on experience early in a nursing career. Her narrative underscores the essential role of mentorship, the profound impact of supportive clinical instructors, and the strong bonds formed among students facing similar trials.

Gabby’s story offers a unique glimpse into the day-to-day life of a corrections nurse, where the stakes are high, and the responsibilities vast. She sheds light on the complex medical emergencies she faces, the necessity of building supportive relationships with corrections officers, and the delicate balance between providing compassionate care and adhering to stringent security protocols. Through her experiences, Gabby emphasizes the mutual respect that can develop between inmates and healthcare professionals, highlighting the often misunderstood but crucial role of corrections nursing in the broader healthcare system.

In our conversation, we uncover the challenges and rewards of providing healthcare in a correctional setting. Gabby reveals the unexpected consideration and cooperation often shown by inmates, and the critical importance of maintaining professionalism and empathy in such an environment. We also address common misconceptions about working in corrections, emphasizing the need to treat each patient with dignity while maintaining professional boundaries. This episode promises to provide invaluable insights into a field that might be overlooked, yet plays a vital role in the healthcare landscape.

Support the show

Please connect and say hello >>> Email me!              

Support shadow me next >>> Thank you!

Want to be a guest? >>>  Click here!

Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.  

Discover the compelling journey of Audra Cotter, a second-year physician assistant student whose passion for healthcare was ignited at an early age in a household where psychology was a dinner table topic. Audra's path from EMT to PA student is a testament to the transformative power of hands-on experience and the invaluable insights gained from shadowing professionals in the medical field. As our guest, she candidly shares how her early exposure to emergency medicine has shaped her clinical skills and patient care philosophy, offering a glimpse into the foundational experiences that guide her steps toward becoming a compassionate healthcare provider.

Embark on an insightful exploration of PA school life as Audra recounts her didactic year—a grueling yet rewarding period filled with classroom learning and exams. Transitioning into her clinical rotations, she reveals the unexpected lessons from her time in general surgery, particularly in pancreatic and biliary surgeries, where textbook knowledge meets real-world application. Her stories highlight the critical role of clinical exposure in not just enhancing medical knowledge but also in fostering a deeper understanding of patient care.

In this episode, we also tackle the emotional landscape of PA school, delving into pervasive feelings of doubt and imposter syndrome that many students face. Audra emphasizes the power of mentorship and community support in overcoming these hurdles, sharing how a non-competitive environment and collaborative learning with peers can transform the PA journey. Her advice for aspiring PA students centers on savoring each moment and trusting the process, underscoring the importance of enjoying the present as each experience builds toward becoming a skilled healthcare provider. Join us for an inspiring conversation that offers both encouragement and practical insights for those considering a career in the medical field.

Support the show

Please connect and say hello >>> Email me!              

Support shadow me next >>> Thank you!

Want to be a guest? >>>  Click here!

Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.  

Unlock the secrets to a fulfilling medical career with orthopedic trauma physician assistant Bailey Hart. Join us on Shadow Me Next as Bailey opens up about her unexpected journey from aspiring physician to passionate PA, spurred by her desire for a balanced lifestyle and a quicker entry into the healthcare field. It's a story of adaptability and determination, with hands-on experiences like working in a cadaver lab shaping her path toward a surgical specialty. Get ready to learn from Bailey as she navigates the challenges of PA school, where intense periods, affectionately termed "Sucktober," tested her resilience and underscored the importance of a strong support system.

As Bailey transitions from academia to the demanding world of hospital work, she candidly shares the trials and triumphs of her career as an orthopedic trauma PA. Discover what it's like to step into the hospital hierarchy and how support from colleagues and mentors paves the way for professional growth. Bailey offers an insider's look into her diverse roles, from the operating room to clinic responsibilities, and the deeply human aspects of patient care, recounting stories that highlight the emotional and professional rewards of helping patients recover from severe trauma.

Reflect on Bailey's insights into finding career satisfaction in medicine, where the collaborative culture allows for shared decision-making and supportive teamwork. Learn how PAs serve as vital links between patients and their healthcare plans, enjoying both autonomy and collaboration with physicians. Bailey shares valuable advice for aspiring medical professionals, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and lifelong learning. If you're captivated by the dynamic world of healthcare and inspired by stories of resilience and growth, Bailey's journey is an essential listen.

Support the show

Please connect and say hello >>> Email me!              

Support shadow me next >>> Thank you!

Want to be a guest? >>>  Click here!

Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. Whether as a doctor, a physician assistant, a therapist or nurse, here Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and understand your place in medicine.