In the February 2019 podcast, BJA Education editor-in-chief Jonathan Thompson discusses recent developments in the journal, including our mission statement, the introduction of defined learning objectives for our CPD reviews, and the development of the new 'Essential Notes' format. Jonathan describes the first of the Essential Notes papers which is published in the February 2019 issue, 'why do patients need extra oxygen during a general anaesthetic?' by Andrew Lumb, and reflects on what makes a good Essential Notes article.