In this powerful and unfiltered episode, Dr. Joseph Rodriguez — CRNA, former state and national leader, faculty member, and host of Anesthesia Deconstructed — takes us inside the real lessons of anesthesia leadership.

From COVID-era disruption to contract losses, difficult boardroom conversations, and the relentless financial pressures of today’s anesthesia market, Joe shares stories that few leaders are willing to tell. Each story carries a hard-won lesson: why leadership is never just a title, how executive presence shapes outcomes, why data transparency can backfire, and how accountability transforms teams from fragile to high-performing.

We also dive into the frameworks that shaped his leadership journey — from Crucial Conversations to The Four Agreements and Five Dysfunctions of a Team — and how every leader can apply them to grow themselves, their organizations, and the people they serve.

This isn’t theory. It’s frontline leadership, with all the scars, pivots, and resilience required to survive in one of healthcare’s most disrupted specialties.

Whether you’re a CRNA, SRNA, or a healthcare leader navigating change, this conversation is a masterclass in turning setbacks into systems, failures into frameworks, and words into lasting impact.

Keywords:

Anesthesia, CRNA Leadership, Healthcare Business, Executive Presence, Leadership Lessons, Nurse Anesthesiology, Organizational Growth, Accountability, Professional Development, Anesthesia Contracts, No Surprises Act, Healthcare Strategy, Team Building, Crucial Conversations, Five Dysfunctions of a Team

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In this candid and wide-ranging episode, we sit down with Bill Bruce — CEO of the AANA, representing over 65,000 CRNAs and SRNAs nationwide — to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to lead the profession’s largest and most influential organization.

From balancing the competing demands of members, boards, and limited resources, to navigating constant political, clinical, and industry noise, Bill explains how the CEO’s role is equal parts strategist, mediator, and pressure point. We explore how the AANA sets priorities, allocates resources, and adapts to both internal ambitions and external threats — and why the organization’s absence would have an almost immediate impact on CRNAs across the country.

Bill also shares his perspective on maintaining focus in an environment of relentless change, the leadership qualities that matter most in high-stakes healthcare advocacy, and how the AANA is positioning the profession for the future.

Whether you’re a CRNA, SRNA, or simply curious about the forces shaping nurse anesthesia, this conversation offers a rare inside look at the operational, strategic, and political realities of leading at the top.

Keywords:

Anesthesia, CRNA Leadership, Healthcare Advocacy, Professional Associations, Strategic Planning, Workforce Advocacy, Organizational Leadership, AANA, Healthcare Policy, Nursing Leadership

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In this bold and revealing episode, we sit down with Randy Moore — former military CRNA, past CEO of the AANA, and now a top executive at one of the country’s largest anesthesia organizations — to explore how the anesthesia market unraveled, and why no one stopped it.

From workforce blind spots to failed strategic planning, Randy walks us through the early warning signs that went unheeded, the flawed assumptions that fueled collapse, and the slow-motion crises that turned into full-blown disruption. We break down the shift from hospital dominance to ASC migration, the chilling effects of the No Surprises Act, and how private equity’s playbook fell apart.

But we don’t stop at systems. Randy also gets personal — reflecting on the cost of unchecked ambition, the value of thoughtful leadership, and the non-negotiables he now looks for in partners and teams.

Whether you lead a group, manage hospital operations, or just want to understand the business forces reshaping anesthesia, this conversation pulls no punches — and offers rare clarity from someone who’s led on every side of the table.

Keywords:

Anesthesia, CRNA Leadership, Healthcare Strategy, No Surprises Act, Workforce Crisis, Private Equity, Surgical Services, Hospital Operations, ASC Growth, Healthcare Leadership

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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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