In this episode of the Ask Nurse Alice podcast, host Alice Benjamin welcomes Dr. Mitzi Saunders, the president of the National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists. Dr. Saunders, who has 34 years of nursing experience and is a professor and graduate nursing coordinator, discusses the role of the clinical nurse specialist and its importance in healthcare. The conversation highlights the need to educate people about the CNS role and emphasizes its significance in providing specialized care. Tune in to learn more about the valuable contributions of clinical nurse specialists in the field of nursing. Jump ahead to listen: [00:01:56] What is a clinical nurse specialist (CNS)?  [00:09:24] Impacting the population.  [00:14:27] The problem with CNS title.  [00:18:43] Harmony in leadership teams.  [00:21:46] Demonstrating value in healthcare.  [00:24:30] Nurse retention and shortages.  [00:28:23] Career satisfaction during COVID.  [00:31:13] CNS role and education.