Anesthesia Deconstructed: Moving Anesthesia Forward

Anesthesia is evolving — and so are its leaders. In this special episode of Anesthesia Deconstructed, we dive into the dynamic shifts happening across the anesthesia landscape, where Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and anesthesiologists are stepping into new leadership roles across clinical, operational, and educational domains. Our expert panel — including leaders from Norstar Anesthesia, Rutgers University, Sound Physicians, Guide Anesthesia, and BPI Anesthesia — explores what it takes to lead in today's high-pressure, resource-constrained environment. From managing subsidy pressures and navigating insource vs. outsource models, to developing provider culture, expanding service lines, and building sustainable clinical partnerships — this discussion gets candid about the real challenges and the bold leadership required to address them. Whether you're a CRNA aiming for a leadership role, a physician looking for collaborative models, or a healthcare administrator tasked with rebuilding an anesthesia department, this episode offers practical insights, real-world experiences, and a clear call to action: it's all about the culture, the teamwork, and the long-term vision. Check your politics at the door — this is about building the future of anesthesia, together. Keywords: Leadership, Collaboration, Culture, Anesthesia, Innovation Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/550243/open_sms] Follow us at: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/anesdecon] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AnesthesiaDeconstructed/] Twitter/X [https://twitter.com/AnesDecon]

Keywords CRNA, nursing education, TikTok, Confident Care Academy, mentorship, cardiac anesthesia, online learning, healthcare, nursing community, media impact Summary  In this engaging conversation, Joseph Rodriguez speaks with Chrissy Massaro, a prominent CRNA and founder of Confident Care Academy. They discuss the evolution of nursing education in the age of social media, the challenges faced by new nurses transitioning to CRNAs, and the importance of mentorship. Chrissy shares her journey from being a nurse to creating an online platform that bridges the educational gap for nurses. They also explore her clinical practice in cardiac anesthesia and her aspirations for the future of Confident Care Academy, including the development of an app and a mentor network. Takeaways * Chrissy Massaro is a pioneer CRNA on TikTok, using social media to educate and connect with aspiring nurses. * Confident Care Academy was created to address the educational gap for ICU nurses transitioning to CRNA roles. * The importance of mentorship in nursing and CRNA education is emphasized throughout the conversation. * Chrissy's clinical experience in cardiac anesthesia showcases the evolving role of CRNAs in high-stakes environments. * The conversation highlights the impact of new media on nursing education and professional development. * Chrissy's journey reflects the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in nursing against societal expectations. * The future vision for Confident Care Academy includes developing an app for easy access to clinical education. * Chrissy aims to advocate for policy changes in healthcare through her research and future PhD studies. * The discussion reveals the significance of community support among CRNAs and nursing professionals on social media. * Chrissy's story inspires others to take action and pursue their passions in nursing and education. Chapters 00:00The Birth of Confident Care Academy 02:17Creating an Educational Service Business 03:13Intro to Chrissy Massaro 05:29The Impact of COVID-19 on Nursing Education 08:02Personal Journey and Overcoming Barriers 11:04The Growth of Confident Care Academy 13:56Future Aspirations and Educational Innovations 21:05The Impact of Social Media on Professional Perception 23:07Mentorship and Accessibility in Healthcare 26:56Navigating the Path to a PhD 31:03Clinical Practice and Cardiac Anesthesia 38:00Future Aspirations and Policy Advocacy Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/550243/open_sms] Follow us at: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/anesdecon] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AnesthesiaDeconstructed/] Twitter/X [https://twitter.com/AnesDecon]

In this conversation, Joseph Rodriguez and Mike MacKinnon discuss the evolution of CRNA programs, the impact of prep courses, and the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people for career success. They critique the economics of anesthesia services, explore fair market value in compensation, and address regulatory challenges faced by CRNAs, particularly in California. The dialogue emphasizes the need for critical thinking in the interview process and the implications of high compensation offers in the field. In this conversation, Mike MacKinnon and Joseph Rodriguez discuss the complexities of anesthesia practice, focusing on the roles of anesthesiologists and CRNAs, the legal challenges they face, and the implications of recent trademark disputes. They explore the future of anesthesia in light of healthcare consolidation, the impact of AI, and the evolving professional identity of CRNAs. The discussion also touches on leadership roles within professional organizations and the commitment required to effect change in the field. 00:00 Introduction 02:48 The Impact of Prep Programs on Interview Processes 09:21 Fair Market Value and CRNA Compensation 17:09 Red Flags in High Compensation Offers 18:41 The State of CRNA Practices 24:04 Regulatory Challenges in Anesthesia 38:00 Legal Battles and Professional Value 42:36 Trademark Disputes in Anesthesiology 48:28 Challenges Ahead for CRNAs 55:05 The Role of AI in Healthcare 01:02:57 Future of Anesthesia Practice Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/550243/open_sms] Follow us at: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/anesdecon] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AnesthesiaDeconstructed/] Twitter/X [https://twitter.com/AnesDecon]

Description: In this episode of Anesthesia Deconstructed, Joe Rodriguez dives deep with Dr. Jed Wolpaw, creator of the ACCRAC podcast and a leader in anesthesia education. Together, they discuss Jed’s unique path from history teacher to anesthesiologist, the critical importance of civil discourse, and universal learning principles that transcend medicine. With insights on podcasting, education, and the future of anesthesia, this episode offers something for every professional passionate about growth and collaboration. Keywords: Anesthesia, CRNA, SRNA, Dr. Jed Wolpaw, ACCRAC podcast, anesthesia education, Johns Hopkins, learning mindset, clinical debates, continuous monitoring, anesthesia podcast, professional growth, learner mindset, anesthesia teaching, anesthesia principles, post-op monitoring, pulmonary physiology, anesthesia innovation. Engaging Summary: What happens when a history teacher pivots to become a renowned anesthesiologist and educator? In this episode, host Joe Rodriguez sits down with Dr. Jed Wolpaw, creator of the influential ACCRAC podcast, to explore his fascinating journey and his mission to advance education in the field of anesthesia. Dr. Wolpaw shares powerful insights on developing a learner’s mindset, the art of civil discourse, and staying open to change in clinical practice. From practical tips on post-op monitoring to thought-provoking discussions about education and professional growth, this episode will leave listeners inspired and equipped with actionable insights. Join us as we delve into the universal principles that drive excellence in medicine and beyond. Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/550243/open_sms] Follow us at: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/anesdecon] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AnesthesiaDeconstructed/] Twitter/X [https://twitter.com/AnesDecon]

Originally featured on Core Anesthesia and back by popular demand after multiple conference presentations, this essential episode drops at 3:30 AM - straight from host Joe Rodriguez's pre-shift thoughts as he prepares for his first day at Banner University's OR. A fan favorite that's shaped countless CRNA career decisions, this discussion breaks down the critical factors new CRNAs should consider when evaluating job opportunities. Published in those quiet moments before dawn, Joe shares his seasoned perspective on what truly matters in a CRNA position, from workplace culture to compensation and schedules. This highly-requested talk, previously featured at Core Anesthesia's conference series, has helped guide both fresh graduates and experienced CRNAs looking to make strategic career moves. Tune in as Joe delivers these key insights just hours before stepping into his own new contract role. Sometimes the clearest thinking happens before sunrise. Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/550243/open_sms] Follow us at: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/anesdecon] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/AnesthesiaDeconstructed/] Twitter/X [https://twitter.com/AnesDecon]