Anesthesia Deconstructed: Moving Anesthesia Forward
Anesthesia Deconstructed: Unraveling the Complexities of Modern Anesthesia PracticeFounded in 2018 by Mike MacKinnon, DNP, FNP, CRNA, FAAN, and later joined by co-host Joe Rodriguez, DNAP, CRNA, Anesthesia Deconstructed is an award-winning podcast that consistently ranks as the nation's top-downloaded anesthesia podcast, with two of the most well-known CRNAs in the country as hosts. We feature industry experts from across the spectrum, exploring scientific issues, policy matters, and the day-to-day realities of anesthesia practice.Our mission is to deconstruct complex topics, recognizing that the truth often lies in the nuanced middle ground rather than at extremes. We bring unique value to...
I Got Sued for Malpractice. Here’s What Really Happens.
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...
Anesthesia Leadership Is Changing - and Not Everyone Will Make the Cut
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 discussi...
From ICU to CRNA: How Social Media is Transforming Nursing Education
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 e...
From ICU to CRNA: How Social Media is Transforming Nursing Education
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...
Navigating the Future: Do Those Prep Courses Work? Will Locums Stick Around? And More for 2025
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...
Lifelong Learning: ACCRAC Founder Jed Wolpaw, MD, on Education, Growth, and Anesthesia Excellence
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 po...
Pre-Dawn Priorities: Essential Job Criteria for New CRNAs
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...
FTC Loses, and Non-Competes Remain - Understanding Different Types of Restrictive Covenants and What It Means for You
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...
Point B: Joe Rodriguez Shares His Positions and Rationale on Proposed Changes to AANA Board Selection
Key Points:
Importance of the AANA to CRNA economy Proposed bylaw changes and resolutionsSupport for Board Term Extension (Bylaw 2) (with caveats) and Virtual Business MeetingsOpposition to Board Expansion (Bylaw 3) and Automatic Leadership Succession (Bylaw 4)Rationale behind each positionSummary: 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 E...
Point A: CRNAs Propose Significant Change to AANA Board Selection
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...
Did CMS Actually Miss an Opportunity To Reduce the Anesthesia Shortage?
Summary
The conversation discusses the topic of rural pass-through and its impact on the anesthesiologist shortage. It explores the idea of including physician anesthesiologists in rural pass-through and whether it would be an effective solution. The conversation also delves into the concept of shortage and how it can be addressed by utilizing anesthesia providers to their maximum potential. The importance of deregulation and allowing local experts to make decisions about anesthesia models is emphasized. The conversation concludes with a discussion on title misappropriation and the need for transparency in using the terms 'physician...
Should C-Sections Be Performed on an Outpatient Basis? Florida is going to find out.
Summary
The conversation discusses the topic of out-of-hospital cesarean sections and the potential risks and implications. Dr. Matt Mazurek, a physician anesthesiologist and assistant professor of anesthesiology at Yale School of Medicine, provides insights and raises concerns about the definition of low-risk cesarean deliveries, the dangers of complications during and after the procedure, and the lack of resources and training in outpatient settings. The conversation also touches on the financial incentives and potential cherry-picking of patients by private equity-owned medical facilities. The need for increased access to obstetrical care and support for OBs...
RAISING ARIZONA Pt. 1: Arizona's Zero to Hero Story with Ali J. Baghai, CRNA, AZANA Past President and Guide Anesthesia | AzAS Managing Partner
Episode Summary: In this episode, Joe Rodriguez talks with Ali Baghai about his journey and impact as a CRNA in Arizona. Ali shares his experiences in CRNA advocacy, the evolution of anesthesia practice in Arizona, and his role in significant legislative changes. They also discuss the nuances of owning an anesthesia business and life in Arizona.
Highlights:
Introduction
Ali's Background<...
CRNAs: An American Innovation - Reflecting on Independence Day
In this special July 4th episode, we explore the significance of American independence and its impact on the CRNA profession. We discuss the foundations of American governance and how these ideals have shaped our national identity. The episode presents two key messages: addressing current societal tensions and highlighting CRNAs as a unique American innovation in healthcare.
The podcast emphasizes the exceptional position of CRNAs in the United States, noting their level of autonomy and economic freedom unparalleled in other Western societies. It traces the profession's success to decades of advocacy work and stresses the importance of continued effort...
FTC Update With Simon Willman, JD and What It Means for Anesthesia Providers
Episode Summary: In this episode, Joe Rodriguez welcomes back Simon Willman, Esq., former in-house counsel for one of the largest orthopedic groups in the country. They discuss the Federal Trade Commission's recent vote to ban non-compete agreements and its implications for healthcare professionals and practice owners.
Key Topics Covered:
Pre-Session: State-Level Updates from Louisiana, Maryland, and PennsylvaniaÂ
We Became The Top Anesthesia Podcast in the United States AND Episode Previews
Summary
The podcast, Anesthesia Deconstructed, has become the number one anesthesia podcast in the United States (Apple Podcasts - subsection: Medicine) due to its focus on deconstructing issues and having thoughtful and respectful conversations. The host, Joe Rodriguez, discusses his involvement in the The Nurse Anesthesiologist Facebook Group (TNAG)Â and the importance of creating a space for sharing ideas and discussing issues. He addresses a screenshot from another Facebook group that accuses him and others of monopolizing information platforms. Rodriguez clarifies his involvement and highlights the diversity of perspectives in the group. He a...
Mike MacKinnon is Back! Massachusetts Opt Out and What it Means vs
Summary
In this conversation, Joe Rodriguez interviews Michael McKinnon, podcast founder, CRNA, and assistant program director at National University. They discuss two topics: the supervision clarification advisory opinion from the Arizona Board of Nursing and the opt-out of Medicare Part A physician supervision requirements in Massachusetts. McKinnon shares his perspective on these issues and emphasizes the importance of removing barriers to competition and promoting a level playing field in healthcare.
Keywords
CRNA, supervision clarification, advisory opinion, Arizona Board of Nursing, AA, opt-out, Medicare Part A, physician supervision, Massachusetts
Should CRNAs supervise AAs? And, updates on DC, SC, TN, and the Pre-CRNA Market
Episode Date: Monday, June 3rd
Welcome to Anesthesia Deconstructed!
In this episode, we cover:
Segment 1: Pre-CRNA Market Update
Impact of late-stage capitalism on mentorship and professional development.Feedback from current nurse anesthesia residents/students.Questioning “Guaranteed Success” and the high cost of prep programs.Segment 2: Key Legal Updates
South Carolina and Maryland Associations’ successes in preventing restrictive rules.TANA’s loss of the term “anesthesiology.”DC’s HORA Act removing collaboration requirements for CRNAs.Segment 3: Arizona Board of Nursing Update
New auth...Is it ethical to have pre-CRNAs pay for intro courses? And, where is our co-host?
In this episode:
The CRNA Intro Market: We're going to explore this issue more deeply - we want to hear from you! How You Can Contribute: We want to hear from you! Share your experiences, questions, or advice about starting out as a CRNA. Your insights could be featured in upcoming episodes!Send Your Contributions: Reach out via email at Joe@GuideAnesthesia.com and write us or send us a voice memo (2 mins or shorter please). Join the conversation and help shape the future of our show!
AANA Election Time!
In this concise episode, Dr. Joseph Rodriguez, CRNA, shares a glimpse into his voting process during the recent elections. He reveals two of his four votes, choosing to keep the remainder confidential to maintain a positive election environment. Dr. Rodriguez emphasizes the importance of voting for candidates rather than against them, reflecting his commitment to promoting a constructive and supportive community. Tune in to hear which candidates earned his vote and why he believes in a selective sharing approach during elections.
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Navigating New Frontiers: NorthStar Anesthesia's Approach to Modern Anesthesia Challenges
Introduction:
In this episode of "Anesthesia Deconstructed," we delve into the evolving landscape of anesthesia services with two leading figures from NorthStar Anesthesia: Randall Moore, DNP, MBA, CRNA, Chief CRNA, and Jim Roberts, MD, Chief Medical Officer. Together, they shed light on NorthStar's innovative strategies in navigating staffing shortages, private equity involvement, and the complexities of the post-No Surprises Act era.Guest Insights:
Randall Moore brings a wealth of experience in anesthesia management and clinical excellence, offering a unique perspective on the role of advanced practice anesthesia professionals in addressing...Revolutionizing Recruitment: The MOTION Behind Transforming Anesthesia Careers
Introduction:
Welcome to a groundbreaking episode of "Anesthesia Deconstructed," where we delve into the forces reshaping the landscape of anesthesia and healthcare recruitment. Today, we're thrilled to have Jarod Collins with us, a visionary behind "MOTION" - a pioneering platform set to redefine how anesthesia professionals navigate their career paths.Guest Spotlight:
Jarod Collins, Executive Vice President, Strategic Partnerships at MedGeo Ventures, is part of the innovative team that developed "MOTION," a platform described as the “Zillow of CRNA jobs”. This episode explores Jarod's journey, the genesis of "MOTION," and its mission to b...Meet Annemarie Wiley CRNA and Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star!
Meet Annemarie Wiley CRNA!
When you think about reality tv and especially the Real Housewives franchise, you probably do not think about adopted small town Canadian girls of Nigerian/Dutch descent raised by a single mom. Well, not only is that Annemarie, but she is also an athlete, became an RN, worked in Canada and then the U.S. and eventually became a Nurse Anesthesiologist (CRNA)! She is eloquent, intelligent, gregarious and very proud of her chosen profession, Nurse Anesthesiology! In this episode we talk about her background, her experience as an RN and CRNA, the housewives s...
Josh Condado, CRNA Deconstructs the Path to Real Estate Investing for Anesthesia Professionals
In this session, we talk with Josh Condado, CRNA, from his initial foray into a highly controlled anesthesia ACT lead to his exploration of real estate investing. It makes us wonder how fully utilizing CRNA roles can significantly enhance staff retention – but that’s for another episode. Josh is only 31 years old, but it was an enlightening conversation about diversification with real estate investing, something anesthesia providers of all types can potentially diversify their assets with.
This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
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Special Series: 5 Questions: Matt Mazurek, MD on Burnout and Anesthesia’s “Dirty Little Secret”
As part of our series “5 Questions” - we’re happy to have Dr. Matt Mazurek, MD, Physician Anesthesiologist, and perennial learner. Matt has done it all: private practice, Chief of Staff, working for a “big box” shop, and now academics at Yale. Although he became known to the show from his article supporting full practice for CRNAs, we brought him back to talk about burnout and how he avoids it, work-life Integration, what he believes is the “dirty little secret” of healthcare.Â
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Special Series: 5 Questions: Mike MacKinnon Addresses Criticisms and Answers What Keeps Him So Professionally Driven
Few CRNAs are as well-known as our co-host, Mike MacKinnon, and at times, he’s not been an uncontroversial leader – he’s been on the cutting edge. Leading off our “5 Questions” Series – we hear from Mike on being criticized as “anti-physician”, on what he’s learned as a leader of the past 10 years, and how he keeps a sustainable edge to remain a high-performance professional for so long.Â
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An Introduction to Our Special Series: 5 Questions
In this series, we will dive deep with some of the most intriguing professionals in the specialty of Anesthesia! Through these five questions, we will be foster important conversations, gain insight into where the specialty is going, and learn how we can influence that future.
Tune in next Monday for our first episode of this special series and enjoy the ride!
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A Look Into the Core Anesthesia App with its Creators: Cole Dill & Tanner Hulin
Take listen as Joe interviews the founders of CORE Anesthesia!
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Dr. Joe Rodriguez testifies against title protection bill in Wisconsin
In an attempt to control the freedom of what other professions call themselves and limit titles in Wisconsin, the medical society introduced SB 143.
Â
On May 24, Wisconsin Association of Nurse Anesthetists President Jenna Palzkill—as well as Dr. Joe Rodriguez, who was representing the AANA—helped inform and educate the Wisconsin Senate Committee on Health on why proposed SB 143 does NOT help Wisconsinites.Â
If passed, this bill would preclude the use of the title Nurse Anesthesiologist in the state. An attempt of one competitor trying to control another. This is the audio of that testimo...
Medical Malpractice Policies: What you didn't know, but should
Meet Julie Nycum, CPCU, RPLU, ARM, the current director of AANA Insurance Services, providing medical malpractice to CRNAs across the country through Medical Protective (med pro). Julie worked for Medical Protective (med pro), a Berkshire Hathaway Company writing 2 billion in policies a year for 24 years as Vice President of Underwriting. In 2006 she met with AANA insurance services on behalf of med pro to develop the medical malpractice services AANA uses today. Â
On this podcast we talk about:
The CRNA Scientist: Dr. Rhea Temmerand Designing Drugs with Spider Venom
Anesthesia Deconstructed host Joe Rodriguez talks to a rare professional: Dr. Rhea Temmerand, CRNA who is a pharmacology PhD and actively involved in bench research while maintaining a clinical practice. We talk about everything from what it is like to be known as a Scientist and as a CRNA, and why CRNAs often do little bench research.Â
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Simon Willman, JD - Do Non Competes Get Enforced?
Simon Willman, JD, former in-house counsel for CORE Orthopedics and Current owner of McDowell Mountain Law, speaks about non-competes and their impact on Anesthesiology Professionals, which touches every practicing provider, 1099 or W2. The bad information out there on this topic is rampant – Simon lends his expertise as a healthcare business and contract lawyer to give us a brief introduction. Send us your questions so we can discuss them with Simon again in the future!
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Mark Silberman JD - Former General Legal Counsel for the AANA
Meet Mr. Silberman JD from the BENESCH law firm! We talk about the New Hampshire ruling and Nurse Anesthesiologist, Qui Tam lawsuits and anti-trust, The risk of medicare fraud with medical direction and TEFRA, if Extubation is part of emergence as it related to TEFRA based on the Donegan v. Anesthesia Associates of Kansas City, PC, Liability of surgeons with CRNAs in the ACT or independently and MUCH more!Â
A little about Mark:
Mark is an experienced trial lawyer, health care attorney and litigator. His practice focuses on helping health care professionals and businesses navigate t...
Interview with A CPA: How to go 1099 to Maximize Career Benefits
In this episode, you will hear from Mr. James Laubham CPA, owner of Capital Accounting, PC on why Nurse Anesthesiologists and Physician Anesthesiologists are turning to 1099 to maximize their career benefits. He goes through the ins and outs as well as what you need to know when deciding to go 1099.Â
Learn from a CPA who is an expert in anesthesia business accounting!
Learn more at the Capital Accounting website https://www.capitalacctpc.com/
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Part 3: Interview with Dr. Randall Moore Chief Anesthetist Officer of Northstar Anesthesia
Meet the former AANA CEO and now Chief Anesthetist Officer of Northstar Anesthesia Dr. Randall Moore DNP, MBA, CRNA. We talk about ALL the things in this 3 part interview! Topics range from anesthesia reimbursement, the impact of the pandemic, the difficulty recruiting, why he left the AANA, culture, what his new role entails at Northstar, and what it takes to build a functional anesthesia team!
There is an incredible amount of information packed into this 3 part interview from a leader in one of the leading companies in anesthesia services in the United States.
https://northstaranesthesia...
Part 2: Interview with Dr. Randall Moore Chief Anesthetist Officer of Northstar Anesthesia
Meet the former AANA CEO and now Chief Anesthetist Officer of Northstar Anesthesia Dr. Randall Moore DNP, MBA, CRNA. We talk about ALL the things in this 3 part interview! Topics range from anesthesia reimbursement, the impact of the pandemic, the difficulty recruiting, why he left the AANA, culture, what his new role entails at Northstar, and what it takes to build a functional anesthesia team!
There is an incredible amount of information packed into this 3 part interview from a leader in one of the leading companies in anesthesia services in the United States.
https://northstaranesthesia...
Interview with Dr. Randall Moore Chief Anesthetist Officer of Northstar Anesthesia Part 1
Meet the former AANA CEO and now Chief Anesthetist Officer of Northstar Anesthesia Dr. Randall Moore DNP, MBA, CRNA. We talk about ALL the things in this 3 part interview! Topics range from anesthesia reimbursement, the impact of the pandemic, the difficulty recruiting, why he left the AANA, culture, what his new role entails at Northstar, and what it takes to build a functional anesthesia team!
There is an incredible amount of information packed into this 3 part interview from a leader in one of the leading companies in anesthesia services in the United States.
https://northstaranesthesia...
Interview With A Lobbyist: Kelsey Lundy from Compass Strategies, Arizona
Everyone wonders what a lobbyist is, what they do, and do you NEED one? There is always a lot of demonizing lobbyists and their role in the media but what is the truth? On this episode, we interview Kelsey Lundy, Managing Partner at Compass Strategies in Arizona, and talk about lobbyists, grassroots involvement, Political Action Committees, how politics work, and how a good lobbyist can be critical to your legislative goals. We also discuss how to find and interview a firm as well as how to assess the effectiveness of one you have. There are so many pieces of t...
Dr. Jeff Gadsden MD Discusses Regional Anesthesia & Nerve Injury
Dr. Jeff Gadsden is a Physician Anesthesiologist who did a large portion of his residency with Dr. Admir Hadzic at the New York School of Regional Anesthesia (NYSORA) where his love of regional anesthesia was born. He has since brought that passion and expertise to Duke University where he currently serves as the Chief, Division of Orthopedic, Plastic & Regional Anesthesia. Dr. Gadsden is not only an expert at regional anesthesia but passionate about it which comes across in every video he does, to every trainee he mentors and in this podcast!
We talk about everything regional anesthesia f...
The Butterfly IQ+ Ultrasound With Butterfly Network CMO Dr. John Martin
On this episode we talk to John Martin, MD the Chief Medical Operator at Butterfly Network, Inc. about the utility, future and applications of the powerful Butterfly IQ+ portable ultrasound probe. We discuss the butterfly iQ+ built in educational videos teaching point of care ultrasound (POCUS) and how it is all three probes in one right on your hip. Will this be the replacement of the stethoscope and be on everyone's hip? Listen and find out!Â
Learn more at https://www.butterflynetwork.com/iq
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