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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