In this solo-hosted episode, Jo King sits down with Critical Care Nurse Practitioner Annie Phylaxis to unpack the real, raw transition from bedside nurse to advanced practice provider. From imposter syndrome to night shift burnout, Annie gets honest about the growing pains of stepping into the NP role — and how she’s learned to survive (and thrive) in the chaos.

They swap stories on confidence-building, setting boundaries, surviving night shift, and the non-negotiables of self-care. If you’re a new grad, student, or just trying to find your footing in advanced practice, this one’s brewed just for you.

• The RN → NP transition will humble you — and that’s okay

• Imposter syndrome doesn’t mean you’re not ready — it means you care

• Boundaries aren’t optional. Set them early, hold them tight

• Your team is your lifeline in critical care

• Mentors matter. Find one, be one

• You can’t pour from an empty cup (seriously, go drink some water)

• Night shift hits hard — mentally and physically

• Confidence comes with reps. Don’t rush it

• Keep learning. Always

• Protect your peace and find your decompress mode

• “You need to have ways to decompress.”

• “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

• “You have to set your boundaries early.”

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This week on Code Brew, Jo King sits down with the one and only Dee Cision to talk all things nursing leadership. From surviving imposter syndrome to mastering policy and everything in between, this episode explores how nurses can grow beyond the bedside and level up into roles that shape the future of healthcare. Dee shares her journey from floor nurse to Director of Clinical Support Services—and drops some serious wisdom along the way. Whether you’re a new grad or a seasoned nurse wondering what’s next, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and a dash of chaos (including a story about a feral cat in the wall… yeah, you read that right).

• Leadership isn’t a title—it’s influence, integrity, and how you show up.

• Mentorship matters. Find someone who inspires you and keep learning.

• Leaving the bedside is a big move, but it doesn’t mean leaving nursing behind.

• Assume positive intent… but don’t let someone else’s fire drill become your emergency.

• The emotional weight of leadership is real—but so is the joy of seeing your team thrive.

• You can lead from wherever you are. Start building your toolkit now.

• “Leadership is influence.”

• “Assume positive intent.”

• “Happy staff, happy patients.”

Featuring Jo King & Lora Zappem

In this on-the-road edition of Code Brew, Jo King and returning guest Lora Zappem (our resident CVICU travel pro) spill the tea on all things travel nursing—the good, the bad, and the absolutely chaotic. From shady contracts and camper life to recruiter red flags and housing horror stories, we’re unpacking what it really takes to thrive as a travel nurse. If you’ve ever thought, “Should I take this show on the road?” — this episode is your roadmap. Buckle up.

• Travel nursing can be thrilling—but it’s not a vacation.

• Burnout from staff roles is real, and travel can be a reset.

• Always get your hours guaranteed in writing.

• Do your homework before signing with any agency.

• Housing? It could be a hotel, an RV, or your worst nightmare.

• Clinical chaos is common—be prepared to hit the ground running.

• A solid recruiter is worth their weight in gold.

• Building relationships on each assignment makes all the difference.

• Other travel nurses are your secret weapon—network up.

• The IRS doesn’t care if you “didn’t know”—get a tax pro.

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