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Beyond The Mask: Innovation & Opportunities For CRNAs — Health
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

Copyright: © Copyright 2018 All rights reserved.

Latest Episodes:

Grade 1 View – Ep. 25 – The Backbone of Rural Anesthesia Nov 11, 2025

Show notes

This week we’re shining a light on the critical role that CRNAs play in rural healthcare, especially in honor of National Rural Health Month (November). Hosts Kevin and Olivia are joined by two dedicated CRNAs, Pete Hext and Hayden Hayes, who share their personal experiences and the unique challenges they face while providing anesthesia care in rural Texas.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

🌾 CRNAs provide over 80% of anesthesia care in rural America, often as the only provider for miles.

💉 Independence and collaboration are key — every case requires adaptability and calm under pressure.

🚑 Real-life stories reveal the high-stakes moments that test skill and composure in small-town hospitals.

🤝 Long-term patient relationships create trust, community connection, and professional pride.

🧠 Key advice: Stay humble, stay safe, and let your anesthesia do the talking.

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/grade-1-view/

Visit the AANA Resident Hub: https://www.aana.com/resident-hub/

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

Fighting for a Cure: A CRNA’s Mission Against Type 1 Diabetes Nov 06, 2025

Show notes

What happens when a CRNA’s professional expertise meets a parent’s fight for their child’s life?

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Sharon and her daughter Danielle—who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age five—sit down with Devin Holt, CRNA, advocate, and father to a young daughter living with type 1 diabetes.

Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode:

💉 A Parent’s Fight: Devin shares his daughter’s rare and early diagnosis story.

🧠 Hope Through Science: New research and emerging treatments that could lead to a cure.

❤️ Turning Pain Into Purpose: How advocacy and education became Devin’s mission.

🩺 CRNA Perspective: The role anesthesia providers play in supporting diabetic patients.

👩‍👧 Generational Impact: Sharon and Danielle reflect on living with type 1 diabetes across decades.

🙌 Shared Hope: A story of perseverance and the belief that a cure is coming.

Join the Crushing T1 Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1390799941761436/

Follow Crushing T1 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crushingt1

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA):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

Now you can watch the show on YouTube! Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCknrmkRxiwtYk7LUjSV6wmw?sub_confirmation=1

Airway Exchange – Ep 4 – Building a Sustainable Nurse Anesthesia Workforce Nov 04, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Airway Exchange, we explore the state of the nurse anesthesia educator workforce with a special focus on faculty stabilization. We’re spending time with Terrica Durbin, DNP, PhD, CRNA, FAANA, who is the Director of the School of Nursing at Western Carolina University and a Fellow in the AANA. A passionate advocate for rural health and the workforce in nurse anesthesia education, Terrica discusses the challenges and rewards of working in academic roles.

She’ll also share insights on the future of nurse anesthesia education, from faculty retention to the pressing need for mentorship. With her deep commitment to both rural health and stabilizing the workforce, Terrica provides us an invaluable perspective on the evolution of nurse anesthesia programs across the country.

Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode:

💼 Faculty Stabilization: Tackling turnover rates and faculty vacancies in anesthesia education.

🌱 Mentorship Matters: The vital role of mentorship in faculty retention and growth.

💸 Salary Discrepancies: Addressing the gap between clinical and academic salaries.

💪 Future Workforce: Preparing for the demand of nurse anesthetists in the years ahead.

🤝 Support Systems: The need for better support systems to retain new faculty members.

Get Involved! Committee applications open in March: https://www.aana.com/about-us/leadership/committees-overview/

Follow @AirwayExchangePodcast on Instagram

Submit a Topic: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/airway-exchange-podcast-request

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA):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

Who Really Leads in Anesthesia Care? Oct 30, 2025

Show notes

What happens when a CRNA challenges one of the most controversial questions in anesthesia: Who really leads anesthesia care? That’s the title of the new book by Yana Krmic, MSN, CRNA, APRN, who returns to the show to discuss a topic that cuts to the heart of one of the most important and often misunderstood questions in our profession. Today, she walks us through her journey as an immigrant, the research behind the book, and the dynamics shaping the narrative around anesthesia.

Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode:

🌍 Her incredible journey – From Siberia to CRNA leader, Yana’s story celebrates resilience and advocacy.

🗣️ Voice & visibility – Why every CRNA should tell their story and own their professional identity.

⚖️ Leadership & truth – Addressing misconceptions about “team models” and who truly provides anesthesia.

✍️ Inspiring others – Yana explains how she self-published through Amazon KDP and why more CRNAs should write.

Connect with Yana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-krmic-73666961/

Get the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Behind-Scenes-Anesthesia-Responsibilities-Professionals/dp/B0DVC7MDBR

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA):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

Grade 1 View – Ep. 24 – CRNA School Recap: The Real Journey Oct 28, 2025

Show notes

What does it really take to make it through CRNA school, and what happens after the boards are over? Today, Kevin reconnects with former classmates Madison Martin and Nicole Strickland to reflect on their long journeys to becoming CRNAs. Every path to an anesthesia career is unique, and the joy is often found in the process of growth and learning. This episode will give you a candid, first-hand look at the challenges and opportunities that await you.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

✨ Real stories behind why each guest chose the CRNA path

📚 How to handle rejection in the application cycle (and why “not yet” isn’t “no”)

🧠 Board prep tips: what actually worked, what didn’t, and how it felt

❤️ Balancing family, grief, and life outside of school

🌍 Life goals after graduation: from travel dreams to clinical confidence

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/grade-1-view/

Visit the AANA Resident Hub: https://www.aana.com/resident-hub/

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

Scammers Are Smarter Than Ever: How CRNAs and their Families can Protect Your Identity—and Your Future Oct 23, 2025

Show notes

Scammers have evolved far beyond poorly written emails and suspicious phone calls. Today’s scammers are sophisticated, patient, and increasingly equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) tools that mimic real voices, copy official websites, and create personalized messages that look and sound legitimate. Jeremy has seen this happen all too often and will use this episode as an opportunity to help CRNAs identify red flags and apply real-world strategies to protect their future.

⚠️ Scammers evolve fast – AI and data breaches have made fraud more convincing than ever.

🧠 Emotional targeting – Loneliness, fear, and urgency are common triggers scammers exploit.

💻 Red flags – Pop-ups, “suspended accounts,” and unknown senders are warning signs.

🛡️ Use smart tools – Fraud alerts, credit freezes, and services like EverSafe add extra protection.

📲 Educate your family – Talk openly with parents and loved ones about scam awareness.

Find out how customized planning can help you reach your goals: https://crnafinancialplanning.com

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA):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

Airway Exchange – Ep 3 – Inside The CRNA School Admissions Process Oct 21, 2025

Show notes

The admissions process for nurse anesthesia programs has changed dramatically, from paper applications to video interviews to the challenges of artificial intelligence. But what hasn’t changed is the enormous responsibility faculty feel as the gatekeepers of the profession.

In this episode of Airway Exchange, hosts Nickie Damico, Erin Martin, and Louisa Martin discuss how admissions committees are adapting to a new era of technology, applicant preparation programs, and shifting student expectations.

Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode:

🧠 Beyond the GPA – Emotional intelligence and resilience are often better predictors of success.

💬 AI & authenticity – How video interviews and in-person writing help reveal the real applicant.

⚖️ Privilege, not entitlement – Reframing the mindset of entering a rigorous, high-stakes program.

🧩 The right fit matters – Matching candidates to program culture and structure is key to success.

Follow @AirwayExchangePodcast on Instagram

Submit a Topic: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/airway-exchange-podcast-request

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA):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

Leading with Heart: A Conversation with AANA President Jeff Molter Oct 16, 2025

Show notes

As the new AANA leadership team begins to settle in, we had a chance to sit down with the current AANA President, Jeff Molter, MBA, MSN, CRNA, to hear about his journey to this prestigious position and what keeps him grounded during all the travel and meetings. Plus, we’ll get updates on the biggest issues affecting the CRNA profession and hear what goals this new Board of Directors will have for the upcoming year.

Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode:

🩺 Advocacy in action – The AANA continues to fight discriminatory 15% reimbursement cuts from major insurers.

⚖️ Legal momentum – A federal writ of mandamus aims to compel enforcement of provider nondiscrimination laws.

🧭 Leadership with purpose – Jeff emphasizes connection, humility, and the value of mentorship in leadership.

👥 Growing membership – AANA now welcomes RN and APRN members, expanding outreach and influence.

🧠 Governance reform – New bylaws strengthen board accountability and transparency for the future.

Check out the AANA Board of Directors: https://www.aana.com/about-us/leadership/board-of-directors/

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA):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

Grade 1 View – Ep. 23 – 3 Golden Rules for Finding Your First CRNA Job Oct 14, 2025

Show notes

Landing your first job as a CRNA can feel overwhelming but knowing what to expect and how to approach the job market can ease a lot of the uncertainty. Today, Kevin and Olivia sit down with Jay Cobden, a 2023 graduate of Rhode Island College and trauma CRNA at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, to hear about what he learned from navigating the process. After attending the AANA Annual Congress, Jay realized he had many of the same questions as other SRNAs about what to do next after school, and wanted to share that experience with others in this position.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

🧭 Three Golden Rules – Balance compensation, autonomy, and work-life priorities.

💬 Ask the right questions – In interviews, learn about team dynamics and MDA relationships.

💵 Understand your contract – Know how sign-on bonuses, non-competes, and terms really work.

🧠 Seek mentorship – Guidance doesn’t stop after graduation—learn from others’ experience.

✈️ Be bold – Your first job won’t be your last. Don’t be afraid to move or take risks for growth.

Apply to be on the Grade 1 View Season Two (2026) Host Team!

Applications due November 1, 2025. Applicants must be current CRNA students/residents with a minimum of 12 months remaining in their program.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/g1v-host-application

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/grade-1-view/

Visit the AANA Resident Hub: https://www.aana.com/resident-hub/

Help us grow by leaving a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-mask-innovation-opportunities-for-crnas/id1440309246

Courage to Lead: Larry Hornsby’s Battle for CRNA Independence Oct 09, 2025

Show notes

What does it take to lead through one of the most defining battles in CRNA history?

In this Courage to Lead conversation, Larry Hornsby, CRNA, BSN reflects on his presidency during a pivotal and tumultuous era for the AANA at the turn of the century. Facing national policy shifts, physician supervision debates, and an all-out fight with the ASA, Larry shares the behind-the-scenes stories of late-night strategy sessions, fax campaigns to Congress, and standing on the rope line with President Clinton.

This episode is more than history—it’s a powerful look at leadership under pressure, the sacrifices required, and the resilience that shaped the future of nurse anesthesia.

Here’s some of what you’ll hear in this episode:

⚖️ Policy at the crossroads – How supervision became the central fight for CRNAs.

📨 Fax campaigns & hidden emails – The creative tactics used to get Washington’s attention.

🧑‍⚕️ Courage under fire – Standing firm while facing threats, opposition, and burnout.

💪 Leadership lessons – Listening to your board, your members, and never asking more than you’re willing to give.

🌟 Legacy and inspiration – Why today’s CRNAs stand on the shoulders of giants.

Visit us online: https://beyondthemaskpodcast.com/

The 1099 CRNA Institute: https://aana.com/1099

Get the CE Certificate here (and directly submit to the NBCRNA):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

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