
Beyond The Mask: Innovation & Opportunities For CRNAs
A podcast for the CRNA industry. Discussing the important issues that happen both in, and beyond, the operating room. With Sharon Pearce, DNP, CRNA, FAANA, FAAN and Jeremy Stanley, EA, CFP, AIF. Innovations & opportunities for CRNAs & APRNs. Visit our website for more great information https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/ and to learn how you can get CE Credit as a CRNA just by listening to the podcast. Don’t miss our special series on CRNA History, CRNA Personal Finance & Retirement, Political Conversations, CRNA Career Issues, and our leadership series called Courage To Lead. Check out new episodes of Beyond The Mask every week with distinguished guests from the CRNA community... #anesthesiology #rn #surgery #healthcare #nurseanesthesiologist #crnaschool #nursing #srnalife #nurselife #nursingstudent #ornurse #nurseanesthesia #crnalife #nursepractitioner #medschool #anesthesialife #scrublife #icunurse #hospital #futurecrna #medical #crna #nurse #anesthesia #srna #nurseanesthetist #nurses #surgical #operatingtheatre #medicalstudent #operatingroomnurse #studentnurse #diversitycrna #ccrn #nursepractitioner #APRN #APRNchat #NPchat #midwife #NP
Latest episodes

Jan 2, 2025 • 58min
Suicide Prevention for CRNAs and RRNAs
Warning: today’s topic is sensitive but urgent. We’ll be discussing suicide in general and shining a light on the rising rates among nurses and student nurse anesthetists. Mental health struggles are very prevalent in the profession but you often don’t ever see it because it’s hidden behind the mask of professionalism.
So what can we do to help drive change and support nurses struggling with mental health issues? Today’s roundtable discussion with Charles Griffis, PhD, CRNA, FAANA, Elizabeth Bamgbose, PhD, CRNA, FAANA, Maria Van Pelt, PhD, CRNA, FAAN, FAANA, three distinguished guests who share research findings to help us better understand this growing epidemic.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Why nurses, nurse residents, and students have a higher rate of suicide than the national population.
They’ll share some of the findings from the research study of suicidality in faculty and RRNAs.
Suicide is preventable with timely and compassionate intervention, and decrying the stigma of mental health challenges will help.
What are some of the warning signs of suicidality and what can you do to intervene?
How do we get rid of the stigma around mental health challenges?
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Dec 31, 2024 • 44min
TEG Talk: Unlocking the Secrets of Blood Coagulation
In this episode, we’re going to explore the transformative role of Thromboelastography (TEG) in blood coagulation and transfusion therapy. This groundbreaking technology has revolutionized how we understand and manage blood coagulation.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
TEG provides a detailed picture of what the patient's coagulation status is.
How coagulation and traditional tests of coagulation work.
Understanding these pathways and their associated tests is crucial for diagnosing and managing bleeding disorders.
What are some common treatments for preoperative anemia?
Risks and costs associated with transfusion therapy.
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Dec 26, 2024 • 47min
The Future of Anesthesia in 2025 and Beyond
For the third straight year, we’re bringing on NorthStar Anesthesia CEO Adam Spiegel and Chief Anesthetist Officer Randy Moore, DNP, MBA, CRNA to update the state of the anesthesia profession and speculate on what’s coming in the future. Just like past year-end shows, we’ll offer up a comprehensive overview of the current state of anesthesiology, highlighting key trends, challenges, and future predictions for the field.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
What has changed the most since we had this conversation a year ago?
What’s the state of CRNA supply shortage and how has the labor market reacted?
How the ASC business is behaving very much like the hospital business from 2021-2023.
What does private equity entering healthcare mean for CRNAs?
The trends in anesthesia practice models.
What do they see coming in the next year or two?
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Dec 19, 2024 • 54min
AI in Anesthesia: A New Frontier for Healthcare Professionals
Today, we're exploring a captivating topic at the intersection of technology and medicine: the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on healthcare. We're thrilled to welcome special guest Dr. Jiale (Gary) Hu, PhD, RN, FAANB who will share his insights on how AI is currently being utilized in operating rooms, the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI into surgical practices, and what the future may hold for CRNAs in this rapidly evolving field.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
The fundamental concepts underlying classical and modern approaches to AI.
The current applications of AI within healthcare professions.
The general principles of using AI ethically, effectively and critically.
The prompt engineering for using AI to empower performance in the workplace.
5 priorities for further development of AI in anesthesiology.
About our guest: https://nrsa.chp.vcu.edu/our-team/jiale-gary-hu-phd-rn-faan.html
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Dec 17, 2024 • 1h 22min
Calcium Scores & Coronary Clues: Unmasking Cardiac Risks in Anesthesia
Dive into the cutting-edge world of perioperative care this week with Terry and Garry. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of coronary imaging and its transformative role in anesthesia practice.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
The role of coronary CT in preoperative workups.
Understanding coronary CTA, how it differs from calcium scoring, and why nurse anesthetists should care.
When not to use these modalities.
Translating these findings into actionable decisions for our anesthesia plan.
Where do you see coronary CT technology heading in the next decade?
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Dec 12, 2024 • 49min
AI in Healthcare: Harnessing Tech and Social Data to Improve Outcomes
Artificial Intelligence has disrupted many different industries despite it being a relatively young technology, and there’s no doubt that AI will greatly impact healthcare as well.
Today we’re talking with Ajay Gupta, who runs a health tech firm, to learn more about how AI is harnessed to leverage social determinants of health, predicting patient outcomes with greater accuracy. Join us as we explore AI's transformative potential in reshaping healthcare delivery and enhancing patient care.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
AI is like a medical or nursing student whose capabilities grow as it learns more.
We need to improve, streamline our operational practices – raise our game – to fully benefit from the powers of AI.
The future of what AI will bring to healthcare is uncertain but we have a window of opportunity to shape our outcomes.
Is there a concern that AI will worsen health equity?
Can AI help speed up new drug discovery?
Learn more about HSR Health: https://www.hsr.health/
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Dec 5, 2024 • 16min
Tax Planning for CRNA Self-Employment Taxes
Navigating the world of taxes can be overwhelming, especially for CRNAs who often juggle both clinical responsibilities and financial planning. Today we’re focused on self-employment taxes and the planning strategies that can help you maximize your earnings. Whether you're a 1099 contractor or a W2 employee, this is information that every CRNA can use to improve their financial future.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
The history of self-employment tax rates and where they currently stand.
Good tax planning is like an annuity that keeps giving back.
Business deductions that will help reduce your income and taxes.
There’s a big difference between tax avoidance and tax evasion.
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Nov 28, 2024 • 39min
Let’s Give Thanks for Everything Anesthesia Provides Us
Happy Thanksgiving! Today we want to take some time to show our gratitude—gratitude for the AANA, for our profession, and for those who work tirelessly to support CRNAs across the country. We’re honored to be joined by AANA President Jan Setnor, who shares her reflections on the profound impact of the association and the countless CRNAs who are dedicated to compassionate, expert care.
Join us as we take a moment to recognize the achievements, support, and community that make anesthesia a calling worth celebrating.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
Why we’re thankful for the AANA.
Advocacy becomes a priority as threats arise and that’s when people get involved. We are fortunate to have a great advocacy team.
What the AANA does and provides for its members.
Jan’s thoughts on the lawsuit that was filed against provider discrimination.
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Nov 21, 2024 • 41min
Strain and Substance Use: The Workplace Connection Challenge
Today’s show will address the workplace challenges that contribute to risk and impact substance use disorder in healthcare environments, which is a critical issue facing professionals in our industry. Our guests today, Luci New, DNP, CRNA and Linda Stone, DNP, CRNA, both have a passion for wellness and understand the unique stressors faced by anesthesia providers. We’ll hear about their personal experiences and discuss the implications of minority stress theory, workplace violence, and the stigma surrounding substance use disorder.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
The specific wellness threats for anesthesia providers.
The different types of stress that CRNAs face.
Is there a lasting impact from the COVID pandemic that could be a risk for SUD?
How burnout relates to compassion fatigue and the risks associated.
What we know about SUD and the relationships between mental health, suicide and SUD.
The consequences and countermeasures of SUD in the anesthesia profession.
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
***Use coupon code BEYOND1999 to get 20% off through November 2024
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken

Nov 19, 2024 • 55min
Talking to People in the Community about Fentanyl and Propofol
Anesthesia medications play a crucial role in modern medicine, enabling pain-free surgeries and procedures. However, their potent effects also pose significant risks when misused. Today’s show explores the legitimate and harmful uses of two powerful anesthesia drugs: fentanyl and propofol.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
These drugs, when manufactured correctly, have legitimate uses.
The risks of recreational use of both fentanyl and propofol.
How these drugs are used in anesthesia.
The significant safeguards that are put in place to ensure safety while they are receiving anesthesia care.
The worry that anesthetists have about addiction and overdose.
Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/
The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099
***Use coupon code BEYOND1999 to get 20% off through November 2024
Get the CE Certificate here: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Beyond-the-Mask-CE-Cert-FILLABLE.pdf
Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246
Donate to Our Heart Your Hands here: https://www.ourheartsyourhands.org/donate
Support Team Emma Kate: https://grouprev.com/haloswalk2024-shannon-shannon-brekken
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