<![CDATA[Sonoran Stories with Admissions]]>Authentic Experiences. Honest Insights.

Sonoran Stories Podcast is the official podcast of the Sonoran University of Health Sciences Admissions Team, hosted by Courtney Badowski — created to guide, inform, and inspire future students exploring careers in naturopathic and integrative medicine.

Go beyond brochures and websites with candid conversations featuring students, alumni, faculty, and staff. From preparing your application to navigating clinical training and launching a meaningful healthcare career, this podcast delivers real answers from people who have lived the journey.

Each episode explores topics such as:

  • How to prepare academically, personally, and financially before applying.
  • What medical school at Sonoran is really like day-to-day.
  • Common challenges students face — and how they overcome them.
  • Clinical training experiences and professional development.
  • Career paths after graduation in integrative healthcare.
  • Insider application tips and admissions guidance.
  • Advice for nontraditional and second-career students.

Whether you’re a pre-health student, a working professional considering a career change, or simply curious about holistic, evidence-informed medicine, Sonoran Stories Podcast provides the clarity, confidence, and connection you need to take your next step.

Explore the path. Prepare with confidence. Become the healthcare professional you’re meant to be.

*Located in Tempe, Arizona, Sonoran University of Health Sciences is a leading institution in naturopathic medical education and integrative health sciences.

Learn more or connect with Admissions:
🌐 www.sonoran.edu/admissions
📧 admissions@sonoran.edu
Explore programs: www.sonoran.edu/programs

]]>https://www.sonoran.edu/admissions/contact-admissions/#rfiRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Sat, 18 Jul 2026 01:33:12 GMTTue, 13 Jan 2026 21:53:50 GMT60Admissions Department @ Sonoran University of Health Sciences<p><b>Authentic Experiences. Honest Insights.</b></p><p><i>Sonoran Stories Podcast</i> is the official podcast of the Sonoran University of Health Sciences Admissions Team, hosted by Courtney Badowski — created to guide, inform, and inspire future students exploring careers in naturopathic and integrative medicine.</p><p>Go beyond brochures and websites with candid conversations featuring students, alumni, faculty, and staff. From preparing your application to navigating clinical training and launching a meaningful healthcare career, this podcast delivers real answers from people who have lived the journey.</p><p></p><p>Each episode explores topics such as:</p><ul><li>How to prepare academically, personally, and financially before applying.</li><li>What medical school at Sonoran is really like day-to-day.</li><li>Common challenges students face — and how they overcome them.</li><li>Clinical training experiences and professional development.</li><li>Career paths after graduation in integrative healthcare.</li><li>Insider application tips and admissions guidance.</li><li>Advice for nontraditional and second-career students.</li></ul><p></p><p>Whether you’re a pre-health student, a working professional considering a career change, or simply curious about holistic, evidence-informed medicine, <i>Sonoran Stories</i> Podcast provides the clarity, confidence, and connection you need to take your next step.</p><p></p><p><b>Explore the path. Prepare with confidence. Become the healthcare professional you’re meant to be.</b></p><p>*Located in Tempe, Arizona, Sonoran University of Health Sciences is a leading institution in naturopathic medical education and integrative health sciences.</p><p></p><p>Learn more or connect with Admissions:<br />🌐 <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.sonoran.edu/admissions" target="_blank">www.sonoran.edu/admissions</a><br />📧 <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:admissions@sonoran.edu" target="_blank">admissions@sonoran.edu</a><br />Explore programs: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.sonoran.edu/programs" target="_blank">www.sonoran.edu/programs</a></p><p></p>episodicAdmissions Department @ Sonoran University of Health Sciencesc.badowski@sonoran.eduno<![CDATA[Episode 5 | Inside the Admissions Journey Part 2 - Masters Degrees]]>Part 2 of the Inside the Admissions Journey series where we discuss the Masters Degrees offered at Sonoran University and the admissions process.

What does the future of healthcare look like—and how can an online graduate degree help you become part of it?

In this episode of Sonoran Stories, we explore the growing demand for professionals trained in nutrition, mental health, wellness, and integrative healthcare. Whether you're a recent graduate, a working professional, or someone considering a career change, this conversation provides an inside look at Sonoran University's fully online graduate degree programs and the opportunities they create.

Learn about the Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition (MSCN), Master of Science in Applied Clinical Nutrition (MSACN), Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC), and Executive Master of Science in Nutrition Business Leadership (MSNBL). Discover how these programs prepare students for careers in clinical nutrition, functional and integrative health, mental health counseling, wellness coaching, healthcare leadership, and more.

Throughout the episode, we discuss the admissions process, career pathways, financial aid, student support, and what makes an online education both flexible and impactful. We also address common misconceptions about online learning and share how students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds find success in Sonoran University's collaborative virtual learning environment.

If you're searching for an online master's degree in nutrition, integrative health, mental health counseling, or healthcare leadership, this episode offers valuable insights into the education, skills, and opportunities shaping the future of whole-person healthcare.

In this episode, you'll learn:
• Career opportunities in clinical nutrition, integrative health, and mental health counseling
• What makes Sonoran University's online graduate programs unique
• How online students receive support, mentorship, and practical learning experiences
• Admissions tips and application guidance
• Financial aid and program flexibility options
• How to determine which graduate program aligns with your career goals
• Why whole-person, evidence-informed healthcare continues to grow in demand

Learn more about Sonoran University's graduate programs at sonoran.edu.

Subscribe, follow, and leave a review to help more future healthcare professionals discover Sonoran Stories.

#OnlineMastersDegree #ClinicalNutrition #AppliedClinicalNutrition #IntegrativeHealth #FunctionalMedicine #MentalHealthCounseling #HealthcareCareers #NutritionCareers #OnlineEducation #GraduateSchool #SonoranUniversity #WholePersonHealthcare #WellnessCareers #HealthLeadership #SonoranStoriesPodcast

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sonoran University's Online Graduate Programs

04:45 Why Students Choose Careers in Integrative Healthcare

10:12 Exploring Clinical Nutrition and Applied Clinical Nutrition Careers

18:37 Online Learning Experience and Student Success

25:11 Admissions Requirements and Application Process

31:42 Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Program Flexibility

37:58 Student Support, Mentorship, and Community

44:23 Common Misconceptions About Online Graduate Programs

49:15 Career Outcomes and Opportunities After Graduation

54:08 Connecting with Sonoran University and Next Steps

]]>a16924a9-3a01-4056-bf56-44d31c5e9cbeTue, 30 Jun 2026 17:00:00 GMT<p>Part 2 of the <i>Inside the Admissions Journey</i> series where we discuss the Masters Degrees offered at Sonoran University and the admissions process.</p><p></p><p>What does the future of healthcare look like—and how can an online graduate degree help you become part of it?</p><p>In this episode of <b>Sonoran Stories</b>, we explore the growing demand for professionals trained in nutrition, mental health, wellness, and integrative healthcare. Whether you're a recent graduate, a working professional, or someone considering a career change, this conversation provides an inside look at Sonoran University's fully online graduate degree programs and the opportunities they create.</p><p></p><p>Learn about the <b>Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition (MSCN)</b>, <b>Master of Science in Applied Clinical Nutrition (MSACN)</b>, <b>Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC)</b>, and <b>Executive Master of Science in Nutrition Business Leadership (MSNBL)</b>. Discover how these programs prepare students for careers in clinical nutrition, functional and integrative health, mental health counseling, wellness coaching, healthcare leadership, and more.</p><p></p><p>Throughout the episode, we discuss the admissions process, career pathways, financial aid, student support, and what makes an online education both flexible and impactful. We also address common misconceptions about online learning and share how students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds find success in Sonoran University's collaborative virtual learning environment.</p><p>If you're searching for an online master's degree in nutrition, integrative health, mental health counseling, or healthcare leadership, this episode offers valuable insights into the education, skills, and opportunities shaping the future of whole-person healthcare.</p><p></p><p><b>In this episode, you'll learn:</b><br />• Career opportunities in clinical nutrition, integrative health, and mental health counseling<br />• What makes Sonoran University's online graduate programs unique<br />• How online students receive support, mentorship, and practical learning experiences<br />• Admissions tips and application guidance<br />• Financial aid and program flexibility options<br />• How to determine which graduate program aligns with your career goals<br />• Why whole-person, evidence-informed healthcare continues to grow in demand</p><p></p><p>Learn more about Sonoran University's graduate programs at <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://sonoran.edu" target="_blank"><b>sonoran.edu</b></a>.</p><p></p><p><b>Subscribe, follow, and leave a review to help more future healthcare professionals discover Sonoran Stories.</b></p><p></p><p>#OnlineMastersDegree #ClinicalNutrition #AppliedClinicalNutrition #IntegrativeHealth #FunctionalMedicine #MentalHealthCounseling #HealthcareCareers #NutritionCareers #OnlineEducation #GraduateSchool #SonoranUniversity #WholePersonHealthcare #WellnessCareers #HealthLeadership #SonoranStoriesPodcast</p><p></p><p><b>Chapters</b></p><p><b>00:00</b> Introduction to Sonoran University's Online Graduate Programs</p><p><b>04:45</b> Why Students Choose Careers in Integrative Healthcare</p><p><b>10:12</b> Exploring Clinical Nutrition and Applied Clinical Nutrition Careers</p><p><b>18:37</b> Online Learning Experience and Student Success</p><p><b>25:11</b> Admissions Requirements and Application Process</p><p><b>31:42</b> Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Program Flexibility</p><p><b>37:58</b> Student Support, Mentorship, and Community</p><p><b>44:23</b> Common Misconceptions About Online Graduate Programs</p><p><b>49:15</b> Career Outcomes and Opportunities After Graduation</p><p><b>54:08</b> Connecting with Sonoran University and Next Steps</p>no00:43:3215Episode 5 | Inside the Admissions Journey Part 2 - Masters Degreesfull<![CDATA[Episode 4 | Inside the Admissions Journey Part 1 - ND Degree]]>Part 1 of the Inside the Admissions Journey series where we discuss the Naturopathic Doctorate Degree offered at Sonoran University and the admissions process.

What does the admissions team wish every future Sonoran student knew before applying? In this behind-the-scenes episode, meet the people who walk alongside applicants from first inquiry to first day on campus: Jain, Jody, Bruce, and Courtney from Sonoran University’s Admissions Team. 

 

Through personal stories and candid insights, the team shares their own connections to the medicine, what inspires them about Sonoran students, and how they support applicants in discovering their purpose and potential. 

 

Listeners get a clear, encouraging roadmap of the entire process — from prerequisites to interviewing, early application benefits, enrollment steps, and how to prepare academically and emotionally for our programs. 

 

This episode is full of warmth, transparency, and practical guidance for anyone considering our programs. 

 

Why listen: You’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and a sense of belonging — knowing that you’re not navigating this journey alone.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Who the admissions team is and how they support students
  • Personal journeys into naturopathic medicine
  • What makes a strong ND applicant
  • Prerequisite coursework guidance
  • Benefits of early application
  • Enrollment and onboarding process
  • How to prepare academically, emotionally, and logistically
  • Ways to connect with the Sonoran community before starting

Hashtags 

#SonoranAdmissions #FutureND #NaturopathicDoctor #HolisticHealing #NaturopathicMedicine #ApplyToSonoran #NaturopathicStudent #IntegrativeHealthEducation #SonoranStories #ClinicalNutritioninst #MentalHealthCounselor #AdmissionsSupport #NutritionStudent #MentalHealthStudent #NaturalHealth #ApplicationTips 

CHAPTERS

  • 00:00 Our Story and Our Passion for Naturopathic Medicine
  • 41:05 Prerequisite Requirements
  • 46:21 Admissions Process and Enrollment
  • 57:05 Preparing for New Student Orientation
  • 01:02:49 Preparing for the ND Program
  • 01:08:47 Engaging with the Admissions Team
]]>62ee22f4-ec8e-42e9-b628-a8d5d35ffd79Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:45:00 GMT<p>Part 1 of the <i>Inside the Admissions Journey</i> series where we discuss the Naturopathic Doctorate Degree offered at Sonoran University and the admissions process.</p><p></p><p>What does the admissions team wish every future Sonoran student knew before applying? In this behind-the-scenes episode, meet the people who walk alongside applicants from first inquiry to first day on campus: Jain, Jody, Bruce, and Courtney from Sonoran University’s Admissions Team. </p><p> </p><p>Through personal stories and candid insights, the team shares their own connections to the medicine, what inspires them about Sonoran students, and how they support applicants in discovering their purpose and potential. </p><p> </p><p>Listeners get a clear, encouraging roadmap of the entire process — from prerequisites to interviewing, early application benefits, enrollment steps, and how to prepare academically and emotionally for our programs. </p><p> </p><p>This episode is full of warmth, transparency, and practical guidance for anyone considering our programs. </p><p> </p><p><b>Why listen:</b> You’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and a sense of belonging — knowing that you’re not navigating this journey alone.</p><p></p><p><b>KEY TAKEAWAYS</b></p><ul><li>Who the admissions team is and how they support students</li><li>Personal journeys into naturopathic medicine</li><li>What makes a strong ND applicant</li><li>Prerequisite coursework guidance</li><li>Benefits of early application</li><li>Enrollment and onboarding process</li><li>How to prepare academically, emotionally, and logistically</li><li>Ways to connect with the Sonoran community before starting</li></ul><p><b>Hashtags</b> </p><p>#SonoranAdmissions #FutureND #NaturopathicDoctor #HolisticHealing #NaturopathicMedicine #ApplyToSonoran #NaturopathicStudent #IntegrativeHealthEducation #SonoranStories #ClinicalNutritioninst #MentalHealthCounselor #AdmissionsSupport #NutritionStudent #MentalHealthStudent #NaturalHealth #ApplicationTips </p><p></p><p><b>CHAPTERS</b></p><ul><li>00:00 Our Story and Our Passion for Naturopathic Medicine</li><li>41:05 Prerequisite Requirements</li><li>46:21 Admissions Process and Enrollment</li><li>57:05 Preparing for New Student Orientation</li><li>01:02:49 Preparing for the ND Program</li><li>01:08:47 Engaging with the Admissions Team</li></ul>no00:55:4814Episode 4 | Inside the Admissions Journey Part 1 - ND Degreefull<![CDATA[Episode 3 | From Wall Street to Wellness with Dr. Karthik Ramanan]]>What happens when you step off the traditional career path to follow a calling? In this energizing and heartfelt interview, Sonoran University alumni Dr. Karthik Ramanan (“Dr. K”) shares how a high-pressure finance career, personal health challenges, and a commitment to personal transformation led him to naturopathic medicine. 

 

Dr. K opens up about the lifestyle changes that healed his body, the courage required to reinvent himself, and the evolution of his career from ND to coach, speaker, and entrepreneur. His story is a powerful reminder that success is not linear — it’s intentional, holistic, and deeply personal. 

 

Listeners will gain insights into brand building, finding your voice, embracing failure, and creating a life rooted in purpose and service. 

 

Why listen: If you’re a career changer, or you’re wondering whether the natural health career is possible for you, this episode will show you that transformation begins with one courageous decision. 

Links:

https://www.drkarthikramanan.com/about/

https://www.instagram.com/dr.karthikramanan/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/emotionalhealthwarriors

https://www.sonoran.edu/admissions/

Hashtags 

#CareerChanger #DrKRamanan #SonoranStories #WallStreetToWellness #NaturopathicJourney #HolisticHealth #FutureND #SonoranUniversity #TransformationStory #IntegrativeMedicine #PurposeDrivenCareer 

]]>41bb9682-bcfc-4e07-8a24-316073c56cb8Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:21:25 GMT<p>What happens when you step off the traditional career path to follow a calling? In this energizing and heartfelt interview, Sonoran University alumni Dr. Karthik Ramanan (“Dr. K”) shares how a high-pressure finance career, personal health challenges, and a commitment to personal transformation led him to naturopathic medicine. </p><p> </p><p>Dr. K opens up about the lifestyle changes that healed his body, the courage required to reinvent himself, and the evolution of his career from ND to coach, speaker, and entrepreneur. His story is a powerful reminder that success is not linear — it’s intentional, holistic, and deeply personal. </p><p> </p><p>Listeners will gain insights into brand building, finding your voice, embracing failure, and creating a life rooted in purpose and service. </p><p> </p><p><b>Why listen: </b>If you’re a career changer, or you’re wondering whether the natural health career is possible for you, this episode will show you that transformation begins with one courageous decision. </p><p></p><p>Links:</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.drkarthikramanan.com/about/" target="_blank">https://www.drkarthikramanan.com/about/</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/dr.karthikramanan/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/dr.karthikramanan/</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/emotionalhealthwarriors" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/groups/emotionalhealthwarriors</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.sonoran.edu/admissions/" target="_blank">https://www.sonoran.edu/admissions/</a></p><p></p><p><b>Hashtags</b> </p><p>#CareerChanger #DrKRamanan #SonoranStories #WallStreetToWellness #NaturopathicJourney #HolisticHealth #FutureND #SonoranUniversity #TransformationStory #IntegrativeMedicine #PurposeDrivenCareer </p>no00:31:4513Episode 3 | From Wall Street to Wellness with Dr. Karthik Ramananfull<![CDATA[Episode 2 | Leading With Purpose: A Conversation with Sonoran's President, Dr. Lise Alschuler]]>In this deeply moving and inspiring conversation, Sonoran University President Dr. Lise Alschuler shares the life experiences that shaped her calling to naturopathic medicine and her vision for the next generation of integrative healthcare professionals. 

 

From her transformative first encounter with acupuncture to decades of leadership in integrative healthcare, Dr. Alschuler reflects on the mentors, values, and defining moments that guide her work today. She discusses whole person care, the importance of presence and compassion in patient encounters, and what it means to practice — and teach — “soul medicine.” 

 

This episode offers a rare and heartfelt look at the why behind Sonoran’s mission: to graduate integrative health practitioners who are grounded, reflective, ethical, and equipped to change healthcare for the better. 

 

Why listen: Future students will leave feeling inspired, validated, and more connected to the purpose and power of natural healthcare.

Hashtags 

#DrLiseAlschuler #SonoranStories #IntegrativeMedicine #WholePersonCare #FutureHealers #NaturopathicLeadership #SonoranUniversity #NaturopathicEducation #PurposeDrivenLife #HolisticHealth #MindBodyMedicine  

Chapters

  • 00:00 Dr. Alschuler's Journey and Valuable Advice
  • 12:35 Career Journey and Integrative Medicine
  • 18:00 Naturopathic Oncology and Personal Experience
  • 24:21 Impact of Personal Experience on Patient Care
]]>6dadae17-5945-4d16-9222-db26efb9ac38Fri, 13 Mar 2026 19:27:30 GMT<p>In this deeply moving and inspiring conversation, Sonoran University President Dr. Lise Alschuler shares the life experiences that shaped her calling to naturopathic medicine and her vision for the next generation of integrative healthcare professionals. </p><p> </p><p>From her transformative first encounter with acupuncture to decades of leadership in integrative healthcare, Dr. Alschuler reflects on the mentors, values, and defining moments that guide her work today. She discusses whole person care, the importance of presence and compassion in patient encounters, and what it means to practice — and teach — “soul medicine.” </p><p> </p><p>This episode offers a rare and heartfelt look at the <i>why </i>behind Sonoran’s mission: to graduate integrative health practitioners who are grounded, reflective, ethical, and equipped to change healthcare for the better. </p><p> </p><p><b>Why listen:</b> Future students will leave feeling inspired, validated, and more connected to the purpose and power of natural healthcare.</p><p></p><p><b>Hashtags</b> </p><p>#DrLiseAlschuler #SonoranStories #IntegrativeMedicine #WholePersonCare #FutureHealers #NaturopathicLeadership #SonoranUniversity #NaturopathicEducation #PurposeDrivenLife #HolisticHealth #MindBodyMedicine  </p><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Dr. Alschuler's Journey and Valuable Advice</li><li>12:35 Career Journey and Integrative Medicine</li><li>18:00 Naturopathic Oncology and Personal Experience</li><li>24:21 Impact of Personal Experience on Patient Care</li></ul>no00:44:1512Episode 2 | Leading With Purpose: A Conversation with Sonoran's President, Dr. Lise Alschulerfull<![CDATA[Episode 1 | Welcome to Sonoran Stories]]>Start your journey with us. In this introductory episode, host Courtney Badowski welcomes listeners to Sonoran Stories with Admissions and sets the stage for what this podcast is all about — authentic voices, meaningful conversations, and practical guidance for aspiring naturopathic, integrative medicine, and health science students. 

 

You’ll learn how Sonoran University’s holistic admissions philosophy helps uncover each applicant’s purpose, passion, and potential. Courtney also shares what to expect in future episodes, from student journeys to alumni and faculty insights, and invites you to join a community where connection and belonging are core to becoming a healthcare professional.  

 

Why listen: If you’re exploring an integrative medicine or natural health career path and want genuine insight into what it takes to thrive at Sonoran, this is where your story begins. 

Hashtags 

#SonoranStories #FutureND #NaturopathicMedicine #HolisticEducation #IntegrativeHealth #SonoranUniversity #AdmissionsJourney #HealthSciences #NaturopathicDoctor #NaturalMedicine #StudentVoices #ClinicalNutrition #ClinicalMentalHealth #BecomeAnND #BecomeaCNS #BecomeaCMHC

]]>2902f3e7-a99e-44bd-99da-eda7abbcdc85Tue, 13 Jan 2026 22:02:30 GMT<p>Start your journey with us. In this introductory episode, host Courtney Badowski welcomes listeners to <i>Sonoran Stories with Admissions</i> and sets the stage for what this podcast is all about — authentic voices, meaningful conversations, and practical guidance for aspiring naturopathic, integrative medicine, and health science students. </p><p> </p><p>You’ll learn how Sonoran University’s holistic admissions philosophy helps uncover each applicant’s purpose, passion, and potential. Courtney also shares what to expect in future episodes, from student journeys to alumni and faculty insights, and invites you to join a community where connection and belonging are core to becoming a healthcare professional.  </p><p> </p><p><b>Why listen:</b> If you’re exploring an integrative medicine or natural health career path and want genuine insight into what it takes to thrive at Sonoran, this is where your story begins. </p><p></p><p><b>Hashtags</b> </p><p>#SonoranStories #FutureND #NaturopathicMedicine #HolisticEducation #IntegrativeHealth #SonoranUniversity #AdmissionsJourney #HealthSciences #NaturopathicDoctor #NaturalMedicine #StudentVoices #ClinicalNutrition #ClinicalMentalHealth #BecomeAnND #BecomeaCNS #BecomeaCMHC</p>no00:05:3511Episode 1 | Welcome to Sonoran Storiesfull