Honored Guests
Nursing Visionaries: Celebrating the Pioneers Transforming the Profession
Welcome to the Honored Guests page of Feeding Our Young LLC, where we shine the spotlight on the true stars of our podcast. As the host, I have the immense privilege of sharing the stories and wisdom of these incredible individuals who are making waves in the nursing field.
Our Honored Guests are current nursing students, recent graduates, seasoned nurses, and influential nurse educators who bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and inspiration to every episode of our podcast.
Each episode of Feeding Our Young LLC features an intimate conversation with these extraordinary guests. They open up about their life journeys, their motivations, and the highs and lows of their nursing careers. From sharing personal anecdotes to offering invaluable advice, our Honored Guests are dedicated to uplifting and encouraging nursing students of all ages, backgrounds, and educational experiences.
Below, you will find the bios and profile pictures of our esteemed Honored Guests. Click on their profiles to learn more about their unique journeys and the wisdom they've imparted on our podcast. This page will be frequently updated, so be sure to check back regularly to meet our newest guests and read the stories that are shaping the future of nursing.
Meet Our Honored Guests
Amanda Shafer
Amanda Shafer RNC-OB, mom of 4 testosterone feeders and provider of daily sarcasm. I’m a seasoned nurse of just over 18yrs with a strong passion for patient and nurse advocacy.
Amy Cathey
Amy is a recent graduate of SCC. During nursing school, she served as a nurse tech in both postpartum and labor & delivery, and completed her capstone in the CICU before starting her career on a Progressive Care Unit. After realizing OB is her one true love, Amy made the switch back to postpartum about three months ago. Prior to making the career shift to nursing, Amy has a background in entertainment (casting and a brief acting stint). When she’s not at the hospital, she’s probably hanging out with her husband, Joel, and their three kiddos, or teaching group fitness at a studio she co-owns on the north side of Spokane.
Angela Parker
My name is Angela Parker and I am 50 years old. Nursing is my second career, but was always my first love. I have been a nurse for 8 years with 4 of them as a night shift Mother Baby RN. I was also a Charge RN. I currently work as Pre-op/PACU nurse in one of the highest ranked Ambulatory Surgery Centers in the country. I currently reside in Ft Worth, Texas with my husband, 2 children, and 2 dog kids. I love spending time at the lake, reading, and making memories with people I love.
Bella Hanna
My name is Bella Hanna, and I was born and raised in Juneau, Alaska. I currently attend the Gonzaga University nursing program and am expecting to graduate in May of 2025! I can’t wait to be a nurse and work in this amazing field.
Caitlin Lintoco - Episode 3
My name is Caitlin Lintoco, and I am a rising senior at Gonzaga University! I am a first-generation student from a big, loving Filipino-American family rooted in the Bay Area. Some of my favorite things include seafood, pretty sunsets, and 90’s sitcoms. Some of my least favorite things include vegetables, which my fellow nursing friends love to make fun of me for, since healthcare professionals should (ideally) be healthy themselves. I’m excited to tackle this final year of nursing school with the support of all the people who have helped me get this far!
Chloe Burley - Episode 13
Hi! My name is Chloe Burley and I am a new grad Postpartum nurse who was born and raised in Spokane. I graduated a year ago and have been grateful to work in the best unit in the hospital (totally not biased!). I have a huge, fluffy, adorable Newfy with my boyfriend and we love to take him on adventures in our free time. I also love hanging out with my friends, my family, and traveling. I love being a nurse and am learning more every day with my incredible coworkers by my side. I am lucky enough to be in the best and most trustworthy profession and can’t wait to tell you more about my experience!
Clémence Kitambala - - Episodes 19 & 20
A labor and delivery RN, born in Congo and lived in Uganda and now I call Spokane WA my home. I went to whitworth university for my undergrad and WSU for my nursing. When I’m not at the bedside helping my patients, you’ll catch me either traveling, reading or painting for fun.
Gabe Vergara - Episode 25
Hey hey hey everyone! I’m Gabe, thanks for stopping by to read the bio of lil ol' me! I’m a current Nursing student at Gonzaga University set to graduate in May of 2025, from the unbearably hot or wonderfully cold Spokane WA! I hope you enjoy this podcast; Eric works really hard to make each and every episode, so I hope our passion comes through to you, dear listener! See y’all around!
Gianna Callipari - Episode 17
Hi there, my name is Gianna Callipari. I grew up in San Diego, CA and decided to venture on up to Spokane Washington for nursing school at Gonzaga. I am currently in my last semester doing my practicum semester in the Cardiac Advanced Care unit. We will see what the future holds for me in terms of nursing, but for now I am enjoying challenging my self on a day-to-day basis and making nursing school fun!
Gracie Burck
Hello, my name is Gracie! I grew up in Tri-Cities, Washington, and left for Nursing School in Spokane at WSU. I will be graduating in December 2024 and I’m excited to start my career as a nurse! I am passionate about helping others and advocating for vulnerable people and I love that I get to channel that through my career to make a difference in other lives. Working as a nursing technician made me realize that I would love to be a postpartum or NICU nurse when I graduate. In my free time I enjoy, weightlifting, listening to music, and spending time with people I love.
Greg Vaughan
My name is Greg and I am a registered nurse! I graduated in May 2024 and couldn't be more excited about the profession. Before I got into nursing, I served 9 years in the military. After my service, I used the GI Bill to fund college and obtain a BSN. While my road could be considered unique, I feel I have learned a lot of life lessons that are applicable to all.
Griffin Garman - Episode 4
I’m a basketball-loving, joke-making, male nursing student. An only child to two extremely supportive parents and some amazing friends and family. I want nothing more than to see the people of this world receive the health care they need, one nurse at a time!
Harlee Miller
My name is Harlee Miller and I am a Labor and Delivery nurse at Sacred Heart. I have worked as a nurse on this unit for 3 ½ years and absolutely love the work I do. Before becoming an RN I was a CNA on a medical oncology floor and a nurse tech after that. On my days off I love to paddle board, snowboard, hike, and work out. I can't wait to be on this podcast and chat some more!
Izzie Wilkes
Izzie Wilkes, from Twisp, WA, started her nursing journey at Whitworth University, and completed her bachelor's degree at Washington State University’s College of Nursing. From there she was hired into her dream job in western Washington on a labor delivery recovery and postpartum unit, eventually going on to travel nursing, and landing herself back in Spokane, WA to marry her college crush. While living here in Spokane she has been able to continue working in the field of obstetrics, as a labor delivery nurse, a clinical instructor for WSU CON, and working a few short years in clinical research. Currently she is a charge nurse of an LDRP unit and teaches a nursing vocation course for Whitworth University. She believes strongly in “Raise them well” in the field of nursing. Meaning, nurture and educate your new nurses, treat them well, show them how to love their job and love their life, and they’ll never have to work a day in their life.
Jamie Felchlin
Hi everyone, I'm Jamie Felchlin. I’m a May 2024 graduate from Washington State University and I’m now a labor and delivery nurse at Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane Washington! I was fortunate enough to work as a nurse tech on this floor for a year and a half during nursing school and now I'm so excited to be starting my new role! I have been married to my husband Trevor for two years and we have two dogs together, Scout and Luna. My journey to becoming a nurse and going through nursing school has been challenging yet so rewarding. The beautiful thing about nursing is we all have a different story of what brought us to nursing and there’s a place for all of us in the field. I’m so excited to be able to share my experience on a podcast with such an awesome mission!
Jayden Hawley - Episode 23
Hi, my name is Jayden Hawley and I am currently a nursing student at Gonzaga University. Throughout my time at nursing school, I’ve learned that it’s very important to take care of your mind and body. My episode is about going through the ups and downs of nursing school (personal and common experiences) and how to overcome these challenges. Hope you enjoy!!
Jennifer Evans
Jennifer always knew she wanted to be a nurse! For almost two decades she has helped mamas bring their babies into the world as a Labor and Delivery nurse (yes, she’s that old), and now she is blessed to help nursing students navigate their way through nursing school and teach them a bit
about caring for mamas and babies too!! Join us for some laughs and laments as she talked with us about how she feeds our young!!
Katelyn Arlen - Episode 6
Hi! I’m Katelyn and I’m a labor and delivery nurse in Bellevue, Washington. I graduated last December and am part of a residency program for new grads. Fun facts about me: I grew up dancing competitively, I LOVE sushi, and I have a wiener dog named Winston.
Kaylee Powers
Washington native, Arizona transplant. I started working in healthcare at 19 years old as a medical assistant and became a nurse 4 years ago at 36 years old. I work nights as a labor and delivery nurse and spend my days as an NP grad student. I’m a wife to Steve, a mom to Josh, Haley, and Mia, and a gramcracker to Genevieve. I also share my life with two beagles, Dexter and EmmyLou. In my free time, I love listening to music, comedy, and traveling.
Kenzie Brown - Episode 8
I grew up on the west side of Washington where I played select softball and skied. I moved to Spokane for college in 2020 and then later transferred to WSU Spokane where I got my BSN.
Krista Reilly - Episode 18
Hi everyone, my name is Krista Reilly. I’ve been a nurse for 14 years with 10 of those years being in Labor and Delivery. Working through and after COVID was a difficult experience bringing a lot of change, burnout, and frustration surrounding missing my two young children. I decided to look into what else nursing had to offer and found a new passion: teaching students. I currently am a nurse educator at my local community college, preparing nursing hopefuls as they enter the profession -and I love it! Tune in to my episode for tips on overcoming challenges both in and out of nursing school!
Laura Kortus
Greetings, I am Laura Kortus, an experienced Registered Nurse with over 31 years of practice. My background is in ICU, Emergency Nursing, Nursing Administration, and now, Hospice Nursing. I am currently pursuing my master's degree in organizational leadership at Gonzaga as a deliberate choice as I navigate my career trajectory. Anticipating each forthcoming class, I am eager to embrace the knowledge it offers and the new avenues it will unveil in my personal and professional journey. I am excited to join Eric in a conversation about death and dying, and what a privilege it is to work with patients and their families in end-of-life care.
Lucy Rash - Episodes 9 and 10
Hi friends! My name is Lucy and I am a Neonatal ICU nurse. I graduated WSU nursing school (go Cougs!) in December of 2023 and started a nurse residency program in February 2024. A couple fun facts about me: I am a triplet — shoutout to Sean and Maggie and an honorable mention to my
amazing and patient older brother, Fred! I also am unashamedly obsessed with my cats (George & Elaine)❤
Mary Bec Brown - Episode 7
Mary Bec Brown is a resident of Jasper, Alabama. She’s been married to her husband, Dustin, for almost twelve years. The couple has two girls, Abby Grace (8) and Sadie Claire (5). Mary Bec is actively involved in her church and community. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and taking her girls to their extracurricular activities, shopping, going on outdoor walks in downtown Jasper. She currently has a Master’s Degree in Nursing Education and has been a registered nurse for over fourteen years. Her nursing career consists of critical care experience in ICU, and eight years of OB experience where she’s worked labor and delivery, well baby nursery, and Post Partum. Mary Bec currently works as an adjunct clinical instructor and lab instructor for the nursing program at Bevill State Community College in Alabama.
Maya Bell - Episode 5
I’m from Seattle, WA (proper Seattle) and love the city. Back home I have two little dogs I am obsessed with, a miniature dachshund and a little chihuahua terrier mix. I am going into my last year at Gonzaga for nursing and have loved my time and all the friends I have made at this school!
Meghan Smith - Episode 24
My name is Meghan Smith and I have been an OB nurse for 20 years—all of my career. I started at the bedside, moved into management and recently transitioned into the vendor space, working with an AI-enabled Early Warning System for moms and babes. I love my career and the opportunities it has provided for my family and me!
Melissa Resendiz-Perez - Episode 16
I have been an RN for 10 years. I worked in MedSurg and ER. I’m currently working as a clinical adjunct. My goal in my career is to continue educating aspiring nurses. I am married and mom to three boys.
Eh sido una Enfermera Registrada por 10 años. Trabajé en piso médico y sala emergencias. Trabajo como instructora de estudiantes de enfermería. Mi meta es continuar educando personas que aspiran a ser enfermera/os. Estoy casada y soy mamá de tres niños.
Mia Waters - Episodes 21 and 22
Mia is a recent graduate from Washington State University, having earned her degree in May 2024. With a passion for maternal and newborn health, she is embarking on her professional journey as a labor and delivery nurse. Mia's dedication to providing compassionate and expert care to expectant mothers and their families underscores her commitment to making a positive impact in the field of nursing.
Mikail Simmons
Hi everyone, my name is Mikail Simmons. I’ve been a nurse for 8.5 years. I’ve worked several units including Med/Surg, ED, and my current, MBU. Although I've been out of nursing school for quite some time, I vividly remember the hardship, fatigue, and passion that it brought me. I’ve experienced burnout and found a way to overcome what I thought would end my career. Leaning hard into home support and knowing yourself as a person can do wonders. Stay tuned for my episodes.
Morgan Creekmore - Episodes 21 and 22
My name’s Morgan, I’m 22 and I recently graduated with my BSN from WSU! I’m starting my nursing residency in the NICU, and I could not be more excited to share a little bit about my journey getting to where I am now!
Morgan Johnson - Episode 2
Hi! I’m Morgan and I am a senior nursing student at Gonzaga University! My desire to become a nurse started at 5 years old and I’ve been chasing the dream ever since. When I don’t have my head in the books, I enjoy traveling, spending time with my friends and family, and anything outdoors including hiking, fishing, and going on walks! Nursing school quickly pushed my perfectionism to the side and taught me you’ll still earn the same degree if you get B’s and C’s. Progress, not perfection!
Rachel Williams
Hello! My name is Rachel Williams and I am in my last year of nursing school at Gonzaga University. I’ve learned so much through the challenge and privilege of being in nursing school, and I can’t wait to share my experience and be part of the Feeding Our Young movement.
Sue Perkins - Episodes 11 and 12
I grew up in a small farming community in Eastern Washington. I received a BSN from the Intercollegiate Center for Nursing Education as a WSU student. My nursing career centered around care of children in both acute care and community settings. I loved it all! That passion, plus one certification and two other masters degrees, landed me at WSU College of Nursing where I taught Children and Family health content for well over twenty years. Two summers ago I proudly but quietly celebrated my fiftieth anniversary as an RN. It has been the best!!!!
Meet the Trailblazers Shaping the Future of Healthcare
At Feeding Our Young LLC, we believe in the power of shared stories to educate, inspire, and elevate. Our goal is to grow beyond our podcast, venturing into publishing and public speaking engagements that will continue to support and encourage nursing students around the world.
Stay connected, stay inspired—click on the profiles to dive into the journeys of our Honored Guests. And don't forget to subscribe to our podcast to never miss an episode filled with invaluable insights and heartfelt stories!
Join us in Feeding Our Young LLC: Share your story, inspire future nurses, and be part of a community that celebrates the heart and soul of nursing. Reach out to us to become a future Honored Guest or to learn how you can get involved!