Grade 1 View – Ep. 13 – Study Smarter: CRNA Board Prep Advice with Dr. Joshua Olson

What if studying for boards could actually be fun and sustainable? In this episode of Grade 1 View, Kevin Chem sits down with Dr. Joshua Olson DNP, CRNA, CRNA educator, and co-creator of the Olivate app, to talk about the realities of CRNA education, board exam burnout, and what it means to walk alongside students instead of just lecturing from the front of the room.

From the emotional toll of imposter syndrome to the power of spaced repetition, Dr. Olson offers both empathy and innovation, sharing why he’s passionate about changing how CRNAs prepare, teach, and stay mentally healthy.

Whether you're a student wondering if you're good enough (you are) or a seasoned CRNA curious about the future of education, this episode delivers encouragement, fresh perspective, and practical tools for learning that lasts.

 

Check out Ollivate - Game Your Brain - https://www.ollivate.com

Web Application - https://app.ollivate.com/

Download for iOS Devices - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ollivate/id6740267864

 

More of what we discuss in this episode:

📚 Why CRNA students feel “beat down” — and how educators can build them back up
🧠 How memory science and spaced repetition inspired Olivate
📉 Burnout, board anxiety, and the three biggest challenges students face
📱 The “Duolingo for CRNAs” and why it’s more than a quiz app
👥 Why mentorship, grace, and belief matter more than ever in clinical education

 

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