Simulation Nation

Simulation Nation

A podcast for Simulationists by Simulationists hosted by Amy Cowperthwait CEO, RN, MSN, CNS, CHSE-A and Megan Weldon, CHSE. Simulation Nation is here to make simulation as simple as possible. We know the headaches that you are seeing in your simulation center and we want to help alleviate problems by giving you guides on simulation writing, moulage, standardized patients, new technology and more!

Episodes

November 5, 2025 • 30 mins

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In this insightful episode, we delve into the intricacies of feedback training and the role of standardized patients in healthcare simulations. Our speakers discuss the importance of maintaining professionalism, the power of constructive feedback, and the challenges of ensuring consistency in simulation scenarios. Whether you're an educator, a healthcare professional, or someone interested in the dynamics of human s...

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In this episode of Simulation Nation, host Amy Cowperthwait interviews Matt Charnetski, the newly elected  ⁨@SimulationSociety⁩ President, discussing his unique journey into the world of healthcare simulation. 

They explore the evolution of simulation operations roles, the importance of advocacy in healthcare simulation, and the global perspectives on simulation-based practice. The conversation hig...

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In this episode of Simulation Nation, Amy and Elizabeth Horsley discuss the CHSE exam, its importance in healthcare simulation, and how to prepare for it. Elizabeth shares her extensive background in nursing education and simulation, emphasizing the value of certification and the resources available for exam preparation. The conversation highlights personal experiences, tips for success, and the supportive nature of...

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Starting a standardized patient (SP) or human simulation program doesn’t have to break your budget. In this episode of Simulation Nation, we’re breaking down real, proven strategies for creating affordable, sustainable SP programs... even when you have little to no funding.

We talk about:

💸 Creative recruitment — family, friends, volunteers, and retirement communities

🎭 How t...

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This conversation explores the role of AI in healthcare simulation, discussing its potential benefits, limitations, and the balance between embracing technology and maintaining human expertise. The speakers share insights on how AI can enhance simulation practices while also addressing concerns about bias and the future of healthcare education.

Make sure to subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode, and to wa...

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In this engaging interview, Karen Schroedle shares her journey from being a high school English teacher and actor to becoming an SP educator at IU. She discusses the importance of simulation in education, the challenges of standardizing SP training, and the innovative use of movie clips to enhance case portrayal. Karen emphasizes the role of SPs in nurturing growth and learning, likening their work to watering flowe...

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In this Episode of Simulation Nation, Amy Cowperthwait interviews Beth Hallmark about her experiences with the transition of a nursing-focused Simulation center to an interprofessional education space. They discuss the collaboration with architects, budgeting challenges, operational flow, storage solutions, and the importance of advocacy and leadership in simulation. Beth shares her insights on the commitment requir...

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In this conversation, Vinciya Pandian discusses her extensive work with the Global Tracheostomy Collaborative, focusing on improving tracheostomy care through innovative training methods and research. She shares insights into her journey from bedside nursing to academia, the challenges faced in conducting research, and the significant findings that highlight the effectiveness of wearable simulators in enhancing comp...

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Join hosts Amy and Megan on this episode of Simulation Nation as they discuss vital strategies for funding healthcare simulation centers. They explore different budget types, share tips on advocating effectively for capital budgets, and highlight innovative fundraising approaches. Amy and Megan emphasize the power of nurturing strong relationships with donors, foundations, and legislators to secure state and federal...

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In this episode of Simulation Nation, Amy and Megan take a deep dive into the world’s top birthing simulators—from high-tech mannequins to global health solutions built for low-resource settings. They break down what makes each option stand out (or fall flat), looking at realism, cost, and how well each one actually prepares healthcare professionals for the real thing.

You’ll hear their hone...

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 In our season 4 Episode 3 conversation, Megan and Amy delve into the long-awaited research comparing cortisol levels in students with mannequin-based simulations and with standardized patient interactions in nursing education. 

They discuss the journey of their research, initial findings on student stress levels during simulations, and the collaboration with Johns Hopkins University. 

T...

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In our Season 4 Episode 2 conversation, we explore the evolving terminology and concepts surrounding standardized patients and human simulation in healthcare education. 

Amy and Megan discuss the recent changes in definitions, the challenges of consistency in research, and the importance of psychological safety for both learners and participants. They also highlight the future of certification in human s...

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In the first episode of Simulation Nation Season 4, the host interviews Jared Young from CHIPS at the University of Tennessee. 

Amy, Megan and Jarrod discuss the importance of teamwork and operations in simulation, Jared's unique background in biomedical engineering, and the influence of industry leaders like Chad Epps and Teresa Britt. 

The conversation also covers the challenges and process...

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In this conversation, Amy Cowperthwait and Sara DePaul discuss the importance of healthcare simulation education, the journey to obtaining the CHSE certification, and the preparation involved. 

They go on to explore the role of simulation in nursing education, the transition from student to educator, and the responsibilities that come with certification. The conversation emphasizes the significance of ps...

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Chris Kroboth shares his extensive experience in EMS and simulation training, discussing the evolution of training methods, the importance of realism, and innovative approaches to education. 

Chris emphasizes the need for mental rehearsal and cognitive load management in training, as well as the role of technology in enhancing self-reflection among learners. 

This discussion also covers the c...

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In this conversation, Amy Cowperthwait interviews Wayne about his journey into healthcare simulation, focusing on hybrid simulation and the use of standardized patients. Wayne shares his background in electronics and computer science, and how he became interested in creating affordable and effective simulation tools for healthcare education. They discuss the importance of realism in simulations, the theoretical fram...

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In this conversation, Amy Cowperthwait and Deb Tauber discuss the importance of  @SimulationSociety Accreditation in simulation and the benefits it brings to simulation centers. They also talk about the different options for accreditation and the process involved. 

Deb shares her experience as a reviewer for the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH) accreditation council and highlights the sup...

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In this episode of Simulation Nation, host Amy Cowperthwait interviews Bethany McGonigle, an experienced standardized patient (SP) coordinator with a background in theater. The conversation delves into the importance of character depth for SPs, techniques to help them stay in character, and how to engage non-actors in simulations. Bethany shares insights on improvisation, authenticity, and overcoming character break...

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Healthcare Simulation Week is an annual event that aims to celebrate and promote the use of simulation in healthcare. John Alex and Curtis Ktichen from SSH join Amy Cowperthwait to talk about how you can take advantage at your organization or school.

#HCSimWeek was started in 2017 by a group of individuals who wanted to create a dedicated week to highlight the impact of healthcare simulation. The week is mean...

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May 22, 2024 • 50 mins

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This week's conversation is about the upcoming INACSL 2024 conference in Raleigh, North Carolina. Joining us this week is INACSL President, Desiree Diaz, and Conference Planning Committee Chair, Sabrina Cook. 

In this episode, we talk about the importance of collaboration and growth within the organization, the tagline of the conference, which is 'Celebrate, Innovate, and Grow', and the SIGs (Special Int...

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