Preceptor Roulette: Navigating the Luck of the Draw

Orientation can feel overwhelming, but the right preceptor relationship can turn chaos into competence. In this episode, Savannah and Sarah, joined by guests Kristen and Michaela, dive into the dynamics between new nurses and their preceptors—exploring the different archetypes you might encounter, from the drill sergeant to the bestie to the sink-or-swim mentor.

The conversation unpacks real experiences from the floor and offers practical scripts for navigating common challenges like personality mismatches, hovering preceptors, disappearing mentors, and practice drift. You’ll hear honest stories about the pressures of orientation, the importance of communication and feedback, and how to advocate for yourself while maintaining professionalism.

Whether you’re a brand-new nurse finding your footing or a seasoned preceptor shaping the next generation, this episode is packed with insights on building trust, giving grace, and making the most of the orientation journey.