Anesthesia Deconstructed: Moving Anesthesia Forward
Anesthesia Deconstructed: Moving Anesthesia Forward
Mike MacKinnon and Joe Rodriguez
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 our listeners by examining the nexus of clinical practice, education, and policy, offering insights that go beyond any single perspective.Join us for thought-provoking discussions that bridge the gap between theory and practice in the world of anesthesia. 
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 compe...
Jan 10, 2025
1 hr 10 min
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...
Nov 26, 2024
47 min
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 s...
Oct 28, 2024
55 min
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 G...
Sep 30, 2024
31 min
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...
Jul 23, 2024
6 min
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 ...
Jul 23, 2024
1 hr 11 min
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 ...
Jul 19, 2024
29 min
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 f...
Jul 16, 2024
16 min
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 Joe Rodriguez introduces the episode and welcomes Ali Baghai.Brief discussion about the uniqueness of Ali's name and C...
Jul 9, 2024
38 min
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 econ...
Jul 4, 2024
6 min
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