Core Anesthesia
Anesthesia education that fits into your busy schedule. Created to help CRNAs earn CEUs and SRNAs prepare for tests and boards.Download the Core Anesthesia app to access all our episodes, videos, notes, quizzes, and more CRNA resources in one place - and start earning convenient AANA-approved Class A credits! Learn more at https://coreanesthesia.com.Connect with us @coreanesthesia on social!
E186: Bronchoscopy (Care Plan)
In this episode of the Care Plan series, Cole and Tanner break down the unique considerations that come with bronchoscopy cases, especially when you’re working off-site and sharing the airway with the proceduralist. They walk through their approach to bronchoscopy anesthesia, from pre-op considerations and airway management to choosing an anesthetic technique and preparing for the unexpected. Along the way, they share practical tips from their own experiences, including equipment setup, communication, ventilation, and planning ahead for a smooth emergence. Whether you’re preparing for your first bronch or just looking to fine-tune your approach, this episode has plen...
E185: Q3 2026 Market Update with LocumTenens.com
In this episode we welcome LocumTenens.com to give us a current market update.
Support the show
To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and here on Google Play.
Want to connect? Check out our instagram or email us at info@coreanesthesia.comÂ
E184: Pain Management Practice
In this episode of Core Anesthesia, Cole and Tanner sit down with CRNA Jennifer Clevenger to explore a side of anesthesia many providers may not know much about: chronic pain management. Jennifer shares her path from the OR into pain management and breaks down what this unique area of practice actually looks like, from patient assessment and medication management to interventional procedures and long-term care. She also talks about the training involved, work-life balance, career opportunities, and what CRNAs should know if they’re interested in pursuing this path. Plus, the conversation dives into the important role advocacy plays in...
E183: Reducing Dural Puncture During Epidural Placement
In this episode, Cole and Tanner sit down with Mike Dolphin, founder and CEO of GuideStar, to talk all things epidurals—specifically the risk of accidental dural puncture and why preventing it matters for both providers and patients. They break down why epidural placement can be so challenging, the potential short- and long-term effects of a dural puncture, and how new technology may help make the process more precise. Mike also introduces EpiZact, a device designed to detect loss of resistance and help stop the epidural needle at the right moment. If you want to see EpiZact in action an...
Sneak Peek: NEW Platform Launch!
We’ve been working on this for over a year, and we can finally share it with you! In this quick episode, we’re giving you a sneak peek at the brand-new Core Anesthesia platform, including customizable quizzes, smarter progress tracking, offline listening, better organization, and more, all designed to make learning anesthesia easier wherever you are. The new platform launches during AANA Annual Congress in Boston, and we can’t wait for you to check it out!
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To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here o...
E182: Anesthesia as a Launchpad: Beyond the OR
This week, we're talking about how becoming a CRNA doesn't have to be the finish line—it can be the beginning of so much more. Cole and Tanner sit down with Jon and Rhianna Schoeller to chat about using anesthesia as a launchpad to build financial freedom, create new opportunities, and design a life centered around what matters most. They share practical advice on avoiding lifestyle inflation, making smart financial decisions, and investing in ways that can give you more flexibility and time with your family. Whether you're still in school or already practicing, this conversation will leave you th...
E181: Q2 2026 Market Update with LocumTenens.com
In this episode we welcome LocumTenens.com to give us a current market update.
Support the show
To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and here on Google Play.
Want to connect? Check out our instagram or email us at info@coreanesthesia.comÂ
E180: Anesthesia Mission Trips
In this episode of Core Anesthesia, Tanner and Cole sit down with CRNA Anthony to talk about his recent anesthesia mission trip to the Philippines. Anthony shares how he got involved, what it took to plan and organize the trip, and the challenges of providing anesthesia in a resource-limited setting. The conversation explores the importance of partnering with local communities, adapting to different clinical environments, and making a lasting impact beyond the operating room. Anthony also reflects on the personal and professional growth that came from the experience and offers encouragement for anyone considering medical mission work.
...
E179: Emergence Part 2
In this episode of Core Anesthesia, Cole and Tanner continue their deep dive into one of the trickiest parts of anesthesia practice: waking patients up safely and smoothly. They swap stories from the OR, compare wildly different emergence techniques, and break down how pain control, extubation timing, and airway management all come together in those final moments of a case. The conversation stays practical and honest, with plenty of real-world examples, and lessons learned. Whether you’re a student still figuring out your style or an experienced provider looking to hear another perspective, this episode is packed with relatable in...
E178: Emergence Part 1
In this episode of Core Anesthesia, Cole and Tanner tackle emergence — basically, the art of waking a patient up from anesthesia and getting them safely to recovery. They swap stories, compare techniques, and pretty much disagree on everything from when to reverse paralytics to how to wean off the gas. The big takeaway? There's no single right way to do this, which is exactly why it takes years to get good at it. Stick around for part two, where they'll get into deep extubation, laryngospasm, and other tricks of the trade.
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E177: Financial Talk with Vinny Cagungun (Part TWO)
In Part Two of our financial deep dive with Vinny Cagungun, we tackle four of the most-requested topics from our listeners: debt payoff strategy, the real financial differences between W2 and 1099, tax planning for high-income CRNAs, and how to find the right advisors for your team. Vinny, Cole, and Tanner share their personal journeys — including what they'd do differently in hindsight — and break down practical frameworks like the three-bucket tax system, the 1.3x rule for comparing W2 to 1099 offers, and often-overlooked strategies like QBI deductions and self-directed 401(k)s. Whether you're a new grad staring down six figures of stud...
E176: Q1 Anesthesia Market Update with LocumTenens.com
In this episode we welcome LocumTenems.com to give us a current market update.
Support the show
To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and here on Google Play.
Want to connect? Check out our instagram or email us at info@coreanesthesia.comÂ
E175: CRNA School and Practice with Connor & Shayla
What happens when both you and your significant other are on the CRNA journey? In this episode, Cole and Tanner sit down with Connor and Shayla to talk about what it’s really like navigating anesthesia school as a couple.
From supporting each other, overlapping in school, managing stress, finances, and the day-to-day reality of building a future together in anesthesia, they share what this experience has really looked like behind the scenes. Honest, relatable, and a great reminder that anesthesia school may test a relationship, but it can also strengthen one.
Follow along with Co...
E174: How Did We Get Here?
Cole and Tanner walk through the origin story and growth of their platform—from two anesthesia students recording study conversations during commutes to help themselves retain material, to realizing listeners nationwide were benefiting too. They share how a low-budget podcast (cheap mics, DIY editing, and a $5 logo) evolved into a paid subscription model, then into a full-featured app built to make anesthesia education and CEUs more accessible and mobile-friendly. Along the way, they reflect candidly on the trial-and-error of building a business without formal experience: pricing decisions, clunky early tech, the realities of “passive income,” customer support growing pains, and ho...
E173: Beyond the Head of the Bed with Randy Moore
Most anesthesia providers spend years building a highly specialized skill set, then assume the only path forward is “more OR.” But what if your CRNA degree could open doors beyond the head of the bed?
In this episode, Cole and Tanner sit down with Randy Moore for an honest conversation about the broader world of anesthesia careers.Â
Together, they explore:
E172: Considering Locums with Krewe Anesthesia
Thinking about locums but unsure where to start? Tanner sits down with Gavin and Chase, CRNAs and co-founders of Krewe Anesthesia, to break down what locums really looks like—myths, red flags, lifestyle flexibility, credentialing, and how to find assignments that actually fit your goals. Whether you’re a new grad, a seasoned CRNA, or just locums-curious, this episode gives you a grounded look at what it takes to make the jump with confidence.
Visit kreweanesthesia.com to learn more and follow them at @krewe_anesthesia!
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E171: Antibiotics (Premium)
Perioperative antibiotics are part of nearly every anesthetic — but how often do we stop to ask why a specific antibiotic was chosen? In this episode, Cole and Tanner break down perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis from an anesthesia perspective, including selection, timing, common contraindications, and what to do when allergies or red flags arise. A practical discussion to help you move beyond “that’s just what we give” and make more informed, patient-specific decisions in the OR.
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To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store...
E170: You've Been Earning CEU's and Studying Wrong
You’ve probably been earning CEUs and studying way harder than you need to. In this episode, we walk through the Core Anesthesia app and show you how to turn your commute, dog walks, and dishwashing sessions into Class A credits, smarter studying, and less stress. If you’re a CRNA, SRNA, or ICU nurse thinking about CRNA school, this walkthrough will show you how to make your studying and CEUs fit into your real life, not the other way around.
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To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App<...
E169: Competition in CRNA School
In this episode, we talk about how the competitive mindset that gets us into CRNA school can actually work against us once we’re there. We share honest experiences with comparison, insecurity, and trying to look like we have it all together. We’ve learned that being open about our struggles, supporting each other, and focusing on the team makes the journey healthier and more sustainable. Whether you’re an SRNA or a CRNA, this conversation is about choosing community over competition.
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To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesth...
E168: Rotational Survival Guide with Ray Ramos
In this episode we welcome Ray Ramos, USAP CRNA to discuss how to navigate through clinical sites with various preceptors. This is often what people say is the hardest part of anesthesia school- how to deal with various personalities and preceptors.
Support the show
To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and here on Google Play.
Want to connect? Check out our instagram or email us at info@coreanesthesia.comÂ
E167: Emotional Intelligence with Bree Brown
In this episode, we welcome Bree Brown, USAP CRNA to discuss emotional intelligence in the operating room. While we often think that a good anesthetist is one who understands the science behind anesthesia, it's the ability to "read a room" and determine how to interact with patients and other staff members that makes a great CRNA.
Support the show
To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and here on Google Play.
Want to connect? Check out our instagram or email us a...
Q3 Anesthesia Market Update with LocumTenens.com
In this episode we welcome LocumTenems.com to give us a current market update.
Support the show
To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and here on Google Play.
Want to connect? Check out our instagram or email us at info@coreanesthesia.comÂ
E165: Methadone with Richard Wilson
In this episode, we welcome Richard Wilson, CRNA to discuss Methadone use in anesthesia. Methadone, when used appropriately, can provide a smooth anesthetic and increase comfort levels in the hours after waking up from surgery. Richard discusses how Methadone has changed his anesthesia practice to increase positive outcomes for his patients.
Support the show
To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and here on Google Play.
Want to connect? Check out our instagram or email us at info@coreanesthesia.comÂ
E164: Mastering the CCRN with Rebecca Coulter
In this episode, we sit down with ICU nurse and CCRN educator Rebecca Coulter to demystify the CCRN—why it matters, how to prep, and how it makes you a sharper clinician today and a stronger CRNA candidate tomorrow. We dig into moving beyond “if-then” tasking to true critical thinking, turning fear into action during high-stress moments, and using CCRN prep to stand out in interviews. Rebecca breaks down her concept-first approach and shares real stories that link physiology to practice so the “why” sticks. If your program requires the CCRN (or you’re on the fence), this one’s your roadmap...
E163: Demystifying NCE and SEE Exams with Dr. Josh Olson
In this episode, we kick off the morning with our good friend Dr. Josh Olson—soon-to-be program director at Detroit Mercy and founder of Ollivate, the “Duolingo” of anesthesia education. We dive into breaking down the NCE and SEEs, pulling back the curtain on what they really are and how to approach them with confidence. From understanding how the exams work to tackling test anxiety with practical strategies—like the evidence-based STOP technique—we cover tools, tips, and personal stories to help you walk into your exam prepared, calm, and ready to crush it.
To learn more about Olli...
E162: Imposter Syndrome
In this episode of Core Anesthesia, we dive into something nearly every CRNA or SRNA wrestles with at some point—imposter syndrome. We talk about what it felt like moving from the safety net of school into those first solo cases in the OR, the doubts that crept in, and how we learned to balance confidence with humility. If you’ve ever questioned whether you belong in this role, know you’re not alone—we’ve been there too.
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To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available...
E161: Anesthesia Mistakes in the OR
Mistakes in the OR don’t define your competence—they’re moments that shape your growth. In this episode, we talk about the importance of humility, owning your missteps, and turning every error into a chance to learn and become a better provider.
Support the show
To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and here on Google Play.
Want to connect? Check out our instagram or email us at info@coreanesthesia.comÂ
E160: Anesthesia Market Update with LocumTenens.com: Is Medicine Still a Calling? A Conversation with Minwoo Kim
In this LocumTenens.com Market Update, we sit down with CRNA and LocumTenens.com clinician Minwoo Kim to explore the meaning of purpose in medicine. Drawing from his personal journey—shaped by his brother’s medical challenges and a career rooted in compassion—Minwoo shares honest insights on what keeps him grounded amidst the pressures of healthcare. We unpack key findings from LocumTenens.com and Jackson Physician Search’s report “Is Medicine Still a Calling?” and discuss how clinicians across generations stay connected to their purpose, even when burnout creeps in. Whether you're an SRNA, CRNA, or simply someone looking to r...
E159: Test Talk: Practice Questions & Strategy
In this episode, we are recording live together from the Region 3 Conference in Chicago—something we rarely get to do in person! Before we head off to present, we’re taking time to run through a highly requested episode format: straight-up question review.
We walk through board-style questions, talk through the rationale behind each answer, and share how we personally approach test-taking strategy. Whether you're prepping for boards or just brushing up for an upcoming exam, this is designed to be a practical, on-the-go study session.
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E158: Blood Pressure Management Pt. 2 (Premium)
In Part 2 of our two-part series on blood pressure management in anesthesia, we shift gears to focus on the practical side—how to treat both hypotension and hypertension when they show up in the OR.
We’ll walk through scenarios where permissive hypotension might be the goal, and explore the pharmacologic tools in your toolbox—plus when, why, and how to use them effectively.
If Part 1 was about laying the foundation, Part 2 is where we put that knowledge into action.
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To access all of our content, download the CORE...
E157: Blood Pressure Management Pt. 1 (Premium)
In this two-part series, we’re taking a deep dive into the art and science of managing blood pressure throughout the anesthetic journey—from pre-op to PACU.Â
In Part 1, we focus on the foundational principles of blood pressure management with a special emphasis on identifying, understanding, and treating hypotension.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll tackle hypertension and explore the tools at our disposal—plus when and how to use them effectively.
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To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App availa...
E156: Anesthesia Market Update with LocumTenens.com: 2024 Recap & 2025 Outlook
In this Market Update episode, sponsored by LocumTenens.com, we are reflecting on the healthcare industry in 2024 and what’s ahead for 2025. Hosts Jordan Briston and Kathleen Burton discuss CRNA compensation, shifts in the industry, the rise of convenient care clinics, and the growing impact of telehealth. Plus, they explore how facilities can attract and retain top talent in an evolving workforce landscape. Tune in for key insights and expert advice on maximizing opportunities in the anesthesia job market!
To learn more about LocumTenens.com, visit them here!
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E155: OB Anesthesia with Tom Baribeault
In today’s episode, we sit down with Tom Baribeault, founder of the Society for Opioid Free Anesthesia (SOFA), to dive into the world of adjunctive medications in neuraxial anesthesia for OB patients. We discuss the different options available, their benefits, and when to consider alternative regional blocks for patients who may not receive neuraxial anesthesia.
With his extensive experience in opioid-free techniques, Tom shares valuable insights on optimizing pain management while minimizing opioid use. Whether you're looking to refine your approach or explore new strategies, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for CRNAs and SRNAs al...
E154: Financial Talk with Vinny Cagungun
Finances can be one of the biggest stressors in CRNA school—but they don’t have to be. In this episode, we sit down with Vinny Cagungun (aka @vinny2guns_) to break down the financial side of CRNA school, from budgeting during your program to making smart money moves as you transition into your career. We also dive into investing, 401(k)s, retirement planning, and how to set yourself up for long-term financial success.
Whether you're a student trying to stretch every dollar or a new CRNA looking to build wealth wisely, this episode is packed with valu...
E153: OB Urgencies & Emergencies Pt. 2 (Premium)
In this second installment of our series on obstetric urgencies and emergencies, we continue unpacking the complexities of these high-stakes scenarios. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, start there to set the stage for this crucial discussion!
Support the show
To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and here on Google Play.
Want to connect? Check out our instagram or email us at info@coreanesthesia.comÂ
E152: OB Urgencies & Emergencies Pt. 1 (Premium)
In part one of this two-part series, we tackle the complex world of obstetric urgencies and emergencies. While some situations in OB care have clear-cut protocols, many fall into a grey area, requiring careful evaluation and flexible anesthetic strategies.Â
Join us as we explore these challenging scenarios, discuss their impact on anesthetic care, and examine the decision-making processes that lead to the best outcomes for both mother and baby.
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To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App St...
E151: Anesthesia Market Update with LocumTenens.com
In today’s episode, LocumTenens.com returns to unpack a recent report by MGMA and LocumTenens.com, offering valuable insights into the current state of healthcare operations in rural, suburban, and urban areas post-pandemic. We’ll explore how these shifting dynamics impact CRNA job opportunities and what it means for the future of the profession. Tune in to discover how healthcare trends are reshaping the landscape for CRNAs and what you need to know to navigate these changes.
To learn more about LocumTenens.com, visit them here!
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E150: RealTalk: Spouse Episode 2.0
You all loved the episode with our wives back when we were still in CRNA school, and now they’re back!Â
In this episode, they share insights into life after school—reflecting on the early challenges we faced as new CRNAs and how those experiences shaped our journey. Together, we discuss the transition from students to professionals and offer words of encouragement for anyone currently navigating the rigors of CRNA school. If you're in the trenches, you won’t want to miss this candid conversation on resilience, growth, and support.
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E149: Anesthesia Market Update with LocumTenens.com
In this episode, hosted by LocumTenens.com, we explore the key challenges and opportunities shaping the CRNA job market. From fluctuating demand to evolving healthcare policies, we cover the factors impacting CRNA careers today. Whether you're considering locum tenens roles or seeking insights on compensation trends, this episode offers expert advice to help anesthesia professionals thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
To learn more about LocumTenens.com, visit them here!
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To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App available here on the App Store and h...
E148: All About Our App
In this episode, we dive into a behind-the-scenes look at our Core Anesthesia app. Our app hosts not only all of our podcast content but also exclusive features like written study guides, quizzes, and a new question-of-the-day tool. We highlight the app’s benefits, from its streamlined organization to exciting upcoming updates like video content and simulations. If you're a CRNA or SRNA, this app could revolutionize the way you study and earn credits. Tune in for a closer look!
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To access all of our content, download the CORE Anesthesia App...