In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, we sit down with Dr. Brian Schmutzler — anesthesiologist, social media educator, and Executive Vice President of Medical Affairs at CCI Anesthesia — to unpack what it really means to lead in modern anesthesia. From the realities of staffing rural hospitals without anesthesiologists to fighting burnout, navigating private equity, and fiercely defending provider scope and safety, Brian shares hard-earned insights from both clinical and corporate perspectives.

We also dive into the power of humor and education on social media, his 108K-strong Instagram following, and how his content brings awareness, advocacy, and levity to patients and practitioners alike.

If you're a CRNA, MD, administrator, or just someone trying to understand where anesthesia is headed — and how to lead within it — this is an episode you can’t miss.

Keywords:
Leadership, Anesthesia, Social Media, Burnout, Independent Practice

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What REALLY happens when you’re named in a malpractice lawsuit?

In this eye-opening episode, Joe Rodriguez sits down with Paul Lefebvre, lead claims professional and risk advisor, and Andrew Clark, head of business development at Physicians Preferred Medical — an anesthesia-specific malpractice carrier — to pull back the curtain on malpractice litigation. From the first call after an adverse event to depositions, defense strategies, and courtroom realities, this conversation is packed with must-know insights for every CRNA, anesthesiologist, and anesthesia group leader.

We talk about why most anesthesia lawsuits are defensible, how to avoid career-derailing mistakes, the truth behind insurance carriers and legal strategy, and what separates providers who bounce back from those who don’t. This is not just about risk — it’s about resilience, smart choices, and protecting your future.

Keywords: Malpractice, Anesthesia, Risk Management, Litigation, Informed Consent 

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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SEASON 7 BEGINS!

Keywords for this Episode
anesthesia, non-compete agreements, legal challenges, FTC, healthcare law, CRNA, anesthesia practice, employment contracts, state laws, anesthesia updates

Summary

In this episode of Anesthesia Deconstructed, host Joe Rodriguez first discusses the latest updates in the field of anesthesia, including legal challenges faced by CRNAs and anesthesiologists, the AANA's bold lawsuit against the federal government, and updates on his personal practice at Guide Anesthesia, which is evolving out of Arizona Anesthesia Solutions. The conversation delves into the implications of non-compete agreements, the recent FTC ruling, and the nuances of state laws regarding these contracts. Scott Weavil, a legal expert, shares insights on negotiating employment contracts and the importance of understanding the legal landscape for healthcare professionals. The episode emphasizes the need for transparency and informed decision-making in anesthesia practice.

Takeaways

• The AANA has initiated a lawsuit against the government over reimbursement issues.
• Non-compete agreements can serve legitimate business purposes but can also restrict employee mobility.
• The FTC's nationwide ban on non-compete agreements has been struck down by a Texas court.
• State laws regarding non-compete agreements vary significantly across the U.S.
• Negotiating employment contracts is crucial to avoid restrictive covenants that may hinder career growth.
• Understanding the legal implications of non-compete agreements is essential for healthcare professionals.
• The public needs to be informed about the qualifications of their healthcare providers.
• Non-solicitation agreements are often more common than non-compete agreements in certain regions.
• Healthcare professionals should be cautious of non-compete clauses that may limit future employment opportunities.
• The conversation highlights the importance of balancing individual and corporate interests in healthcare.

Chapters

00:00
Updates! 

10:34
Scott Intro

13:58
Legitimate Business Purposes of Non-Competes

17:18
The FTC Ban on Non-Competes

20:33
State Laws on Non-Competes

23:17
Challenging Non-Competes

25:35
Differentiating Non-Competes and Non-Solicits

28:13
The Future of Non-Competes

30:21
Conclusion

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Key Points:

1. Importance of the AANA to CRNA economy 
2. Proposed bylaw changes and resolutions
3. Support for Board Term Extension (Bylaw 2) (with caveats) and Virtual Business Meetings
4. Opposition to Board Expansion (Bylaw 3) and Automatic Leadership Succession (Bylaw 4)
5. Rationale behind each position

Summary: Joe shares his views on proposed AANA changes, advocating for longer board terms and virtual meetings while opposing board expansion and automatic leadership succession. He emphasizes the need for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility in leadership.

Call to Action: Members encouraged to review proposal documentation and participate in the upcoming discussion in early August.

Next Episode: Tune in next week for more CRNA insights and industry updates.

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Summary

The conversation discusses three main changes proposed by the Leadership Identification Committee (LIC) for the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology: increasing the number of directors from seven to nine, increasing the term for directors from two years to three years, and changing the progression of the president to a three-year term. The rationale behind these changes is to decrease turnover, increase the number of eligible people for executive positions, and provide more support to region directors. The conversation also addresses concerns about the time commitment for directors and the potential impact on decision-making, cost, and the role of the professional staff. The conversation explores the proposal to increase the number of directors on the board, extend the terms of the vice president and president-elect, and create continuity in executive leadership roles. The main themes discussed include the benefits of having more directors to support state leaders, the financial feasibility of the proposal, the potential risks of electing the wrong person into an important position, the need for continuity and experience in executive roles, and the importance of informed voting.  The conclusion is an editor's note, where our host, Joe Rodriguez, expresses his view after taking time consider the conversation.  

Keywords

AANA, association, Leadership Identification Committee, directors, term, turnover, executive positions, region directors, time commitment, cost, professional staff, board directors, executive leadership, continuity, experience, informed voting

Takeaways

• The proposed changes aim to decrease turnover, increase the number of eligible people for executive positions, and provide more support to region directors.
• Increasing the term for directors from two years to three years allows for more continuity and experience on the board.
• Expanding the number of directors from seven to nine helps to reduce the workload for region directors and aligns with the growth of the association.
• Concerns about the time commitment, decision-making, cost, and the role of the professional staff are important considerations in the discussion.
• The financial feasibility of the proposal was assessed and deemed affordable.
• There is a potential risk of electing the wrong person into an important position, but the board can address disruptive behavior and provide coaching to mitigate this risk.
• Having continuity and experience in executive roles can lead to better decision-making and representation of members' interests.
• Informed voting is crucial, and members should take the time to understand the proposals and make informed decisions.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background of the Proposed Changes

02:51
Increasing the Term for Directors from Two Years to Three Years

10:14
Expanding the Number of Directors from Seven to Nine

18:09
Considerations and Approval of the Proposed Changes

31:16
Enhancing Support for State Leaders

33:56
Assessing Financial Feasibility

37:12
Creating Continuity in Executive Roles

41:31
Decreasing Turnover and Ensuring Continuity

45:37
Mitigating Risks and Addressing Poor Leadership

48:42
Moving Away from Personal Agenda Items

59:40
Encouraging Informed Voting

Conclusion: Editor's Note

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