Meet the Nurse Behind the Podcast Mic: My Story, My Interests, and Why I Help New Graduate Nurses
After six months of podcasting weekly episodes for nursing students and new grad nurses, I realized many of you might be wondering: who exactly is the person behind the mic? If you've tuned in for a while, you've probably heard pieces of my story sprinkled throughout. But today, I want to share it all in one place—the full picture of who I am, what I value, and why I created this space for new nurses like you.
Whether you're here for career tips, encouragement, or simply out of curiosity, thank you for stopping by. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at my life, my nursing journey, and the mission that fuels my work.
My Nursing Roots and Family Life
I'm 35 years old and was born in Washington, D.C., but grew up in Connecticut, where I've lived ever since. I earned my BSN from Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island—four of the best years of my life. Nursing school was tough, but it introduced me to lifelong friends and helped shape who I am today.
I met my husband, Bryan (yes, with a "Y"), during nursing school while working as a Patient Care Technician. He was a new Physician Assistant at the time, and despite our differences, we clicked. Bryan is more introverted, Type A, and logical, while I lead with emotion and embrace change. He's also a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force, and I couldn’t be prouder of him.
Together, we have three amazing kids: Kennedy (8), Nathan (7), and Collins (4). Life with them is a beautiful chaos filled with legos, dance parties, and endless snacks. Being a mom is one of my greatest joys and has deeply impacted the way I view my nursing career and life in general.
From Burnout to Clarity: Why I Walked Away from Traditional Nursing Roles
Like many nurses, I once believed the path to success was climbing the clinical ladder. I worked in roles like Assistant Nurse Manager and Nurse Manager, all while juggling motherhood. But I began to feel unfulfilled—burnt out, disconnected, and constantly questioning if this was what I really wanted.
Having children was the wake-up call I didn’t know I needed. It forced me to pause, reflect, and ask bigger questions: Is this career path still serving me? Am I happy? What do I truly want? The answer surprised me. I no longer wanted to chase titles. I wanted time freedom. I wanted fulfillment. I wanted to help new nurses not just survive, but thrive.
What I’ve Learned in My 30s (That I Wish I Knew in My 20s)
To the nursing student or new grad reading this in your early 20s: your 30s will bring clarity, confidence, and calm. In my 30s, I…
Got diagnosed with ADHD
Learned how to set boundaries
Discovered that I can redefine success on my terms
I used to be a workaholic. Now, I value alignment. I know what drains me and what energizes me. I stopped people-pleasing and started getting real about what matters.
My Personality, Passions & Quirks
I'm an Aries (aka headstrong), an Enneagram 3 (aka the overachiever), and proudly Irish (hello, Irish goodbyes and storytelling tendencies!). I'm an extroverted introvert: I love people but need solitude to recharge.
Things I love:
Running, Peloton rides, and strength training
Rom coms and personal development books
Podcasts (current favorites: Goal Digger, The Liz Moody Podcast, Dream Bigger)
Boujee coffee (IYKYK—iced brown sugar oatmilk shaken espresso anyone?)
My family, cozy weekends, and heartfelt convos
Things that drive me nuts:
Slow walkers in public
Inauthenticity
Scheduling appointments and adulting
Cold New England winters and trips to the dentist
A Career Detour into Real Estate and Financial Freedom
During the 2020 pandemic, Bryan was deployed, and I was working full-time in Nursing Management. With everything shut down, we saved money and considered putting in a pool. But something told me: There's got to be a better use of our money.
Instead of a pool, we ended up buying our first Airbnb property in Newport, RI, and later added another. These investments taught me the power of passive income and gave me a taste of investing - something every nurse deserves to experience.
Grief, Faith, and Spiritual Growth
One of the hardest chapters of my life was losing my dad to lung cancer in 2015. He was my biggest cheerleader, and losing him changed everything. It made me question my faith, my career, and my purpose.
Over time, I found healing through spirituality. I no longer define myself by one religion, but rather believe in a greater power, divine timing, and signs from the universe. I believe in gut feelings, lucky numbers, and yes, even tarot cards. These beliefs help me stay grounded and aligned in both life and business.
Why I Created the New Nurse Society
After walking away from the traditional nursing path, I launched the New Nurse Society to support nursing students and new grad nurses navigating career transitions. What started as a job search coaching space has evolved into so much more.
With the help of my friend Julia, a nurse life coach, we now offer monthly connection calls and workshops on topics like rapid response, handling emergencies, and workplace challenges. Our goal is to create a supportive, empowering space where new nurses don’t feel alone.
A Final Note to You, Nurse Friend
If you've made it this far, thank you. This blog is personal, a bit rambly, and 100% me. I hope it helps you understand the heart behind this podcast and community.
Whether you're prepping for the NCLEX, applying to new grad nurse jobs, or questioning your path, just know this: you are not alone. Your nursing career is one part of your story - not your whole identity. You have permission to evolve.
If you ever want to share your story or connect, please reach out. You can find me on Instagram @nursecoachcaroline and TikTok @nursecoachcaroline, or email me directly at info.nursecoachcaroline@gmail.com.
I'd love to hear from you.
We’re in this together. And as always, I have one hand for me, and the other for you.
Until next time,
Caroline
PS. Want more on this topic? Listen to Life After Nursing School Podcast Episode 24