The hidden $50 billion hemorrhage destroying hospital finances has finally been exposed. In this riveting conversation with Christopher Salkowitz  from RST Automation, we uncover how outdated sterile processing methods are creating a perfect storm that's forcing rural hospitals to close and burning out the dedicated techs who keep surgeries running.

Drawing on groundbreaking research by Dr. Peter Nichol, Chris reveals the shocking statistic that each operating room loses $200,000 annually solely from incorrect or incomplete surgical trays. Even more alarming, fewer than 20% of sterile processing quality issues are ever reported. The financial drain is massive, but the human cost is equally devastating as SPD teams work harder than necessary with inadequate tools.

Chris paints a vivid analogy: imagine supermarkets without scanners, where cashiers memorize prices and process everything manually. The chaos would be unmanageable, yet this precisely describes how most SPD departments function without proper automation. The AI-powered systems from RSC don't replace techs but amplify their effectiveness by handling instrument identification in seconds, allowing staff to focus on critical inspection tasks.

What makes this conversation particularly urgent is the demographic reality facing healthcare. As baby boomers transition to Medicare Plus with its lower reimbursements, hospitals that don't embrace efficiency will simply not survive. The disconnect between OR leaders, SPD managers, and hospital executives has allowed this problem to persist far too long, with each department experiencing the pain in isolation.

The vision for sterile processing in 2030 is "streamlined" – organized, efficient, with higher wages justified by doubled productivity. For technicians, managers, and executives alike, this episode is a call to action. The cost of inaction is simply too high. The future of healthcare depends on evolving now, before more hospital doors close permanently.

Connect with Christopher Salkowitz on LinkedIn to request demos and learn how automation can transform your department. Share this episode to spread this urgent message throughout healthcare

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Alyssa Ellis, known as @beyondassisting on Instagram, transforms surgical technology education by sharing honest insights about the blood, sweat, and purpose behind the field that she once feared but now champions as both a certified surgical technologist and first assist.

• Started as a surgical tech after accompanying friends to school who both quit within two weeks
• Maintains both surgical tech and first assist certifications to preserve her foundational skills
• Explains the difference between surgical technologists (instrument passers) and first assists who help retract, suture, and cut
• Identifies confidence as the biggest challenge for new techs, emphasizing the importance of supportive preceptors 
• Describes the physical demands of holding retractors and standing for 12-hour shifts
• Recommends consistent instrument placement and thorough note-taking when preparing for complex cases
• Emphasizes emotional intelligence and "reading the room" when working with surgeons under stress
• Advises new techs to focus on watching the procedure rather than staring at their Mayo stand
• Started her social media platform to fill her passion for teaching that wasn't fully satisfied in her first assist role
• Teaches the importance of communicating directly with surgeons rather than ignoring requests for unavailable items

Download Alyssa's app at beyondassistingmvtso.com and use code CST student for 30% off. Follow her on Instagram @beyondassisting.

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Shantel Berwald, a trailblazer in sterile processing leadership, shares her journey from surgical tech to SPD director and reveals how she's transforming department culture. Through personal experiences and practical insights, she demonstrates how effective leadership in sterile processing balances technical expertise with people-focused management and strategic vision.

• Journey from surgical tech to SPD director through hands-on learning and curiosity
• Describes leadership style as "disruptive in the best way possible" - focusing on efficiency and patient safety
• Emphasizes the technical complexity and scientific foundation of sterile processing that often goes unrecognized
• Predicts culture shift as the next major evolution in SPD, particularly in OR-SPD relationships
• Advocates for quality over quantity and slowing down to ensure attention to detail
• Shares experiences designing the new Critical Care Tower with one-way flow and future-focused capacity
• Maintained team motivation during renovations through transparency and hands-on leadership
• Builds vendor partnerships based on clear expectations, mutual respect, and patient-centered collaboration
• Involves frontline technicians in equipment decisions through trials and collaborative problem-solving
• Advises new leaders to establish boundaries while finding common ground focused on patient outcomes

Connect with Shantel on LinkedIn or in SPD Facebook groups to continue the conversation about leadership in sterile processing.

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Sterile processing educators shape the future of healthcare by developing skilled technicians whose work directly impacts patient outcomes and safety, often in ways that go unseen and unrecognized.
• Successful SPD students demonstrate self-motivation, resilience, and the right mindset to overcome challenges• Effective SPD education goes beyond textbooks to include guest speakers, real lab experiences, and discussions about patient impact• Finding externships and mentorship opportunities is crucial for students completing certification requirements• Students should utilize resources like Beyond Clean podcast and network with industry professionals• SPD professionals act as "superheroes without capes," handling instruments that save lives without patient recognition• Building confidence through practice and teamwork helps students master complex skills and information• Current SPD students value hands-on lab experiences and the opportunity to make a difference in patient care
For coaching to elevate your SPD career, visit sterilizationstation.org to explore our three-tier program designed to create your success roadmap. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Send us a textSterile processing veteran Tameka Jones shares unfiltered insights about what it really takes to succeed in SPD, going beyond classroom theory to prepare students for real-world excellence.

• SPD work requires deep understanding of instrumentation, protocols, and manufacturer instructions
• Most students underestimate the level of commitment required in sterile processing
• The disconnect between classroom learning and floor reality requires personalized instruction
• "Return demonstration" teaching ensures students truly understand processes before certification
• Sterile processing should be viewed as a starting point with numerous career advancement paths
• Making training personal by visualizing preparing instruments for loved ones increases commitment
• Military discipline and "one band, one sound" mentality helps maintain excellence even during challenges
• Pride comes from knowing your work prevents infections and ensures successful surgeries
• Tameka's facility has maintained zero infections over seven years through meticulous practices
• Creating supportive environments where everyone's input is valued fosters growth mindset

Share this episode with your SPD class or mentor. Write down your biggest takeaway and tag us with #ToughLoveSPD or #SterilizationStation to join the conversation!


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Send us a textCuriosity drives quality in sterile processing. That's the fundamental message from Diana Anderson, an 18-year healthcare veteran who transformed her career from bedside nursing to sterile processing leadership by constantly asking "why?" 

Join us for this fascinating exploration of quality systems in sterile processing as Diana shares practical wisdom gained through her journey. She reveals how understanding the clinical application of instruments creates powerful learning moments: watching a rigid laparoscope connect to a camera or viewing surgical technique videos for orthopedic procedures brings clarity to the meticulous work of reprocessing. Diana's approach emphasizes consistency – standardized processes, regular auditing, and accessible documentation that shows "what good looks like."

The conversation delves into real-world challenges every sterile processing department faces: navigating complex manufacturer IFUs, building effective multidisciplinary teams, and fostering partnership with the OR. Diana's innovative solutions include leveraging SharePoint for digital standard work, utilizing electronic tracking systems to display step-by-step instructions, and facilitating cross-training between departments. She emphasizes the value of bringing frontline technicians into improvement discussions since they encounter the daily realities of implementation.

What emerges is a philosophy that balances regulatory compliance with practical application. "If it's hard, it's challenging, it's probably the right work," Diana observes, especially when patient safety hangs in the balance. Whether you're new to sterile processing or a seasoned veteran, this episode offers valuable strategies for elevating quality in your daily operations through curiosity, standardization, and collaborative partnership. Connect with Diana on LinkedIn to continue the conversation about building excellence in sterile processing.Support the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Send us a textWhat if the key to your medical device success isn't in the OR, but in the basement? The Sterilization Station podcast uncovers a powerful but overlooked influence on device outcomes - the relationship between sales representatives and Sterile Processing Departments.

Host Bill Rishell welcomes Gyda Loveres, an experienced medical device sales leader who started her career by dropping off trays at SPD. Their conversation reveals how treating SPD professionals with respect, communication, and emotional intelligence transforms transactional interactions into partnerships that drive success.

"Treat people like people," Gyda  emphasizes throughout this eye-opening discussion. SPD teams juggle countless priorities while ensuring patient safety through proper instrument reprocessing. When sales representatives recognize these challenges and communicate effectively, everyone benefits - especially patients.

The episode explores practical strategies for building productive SPD relationships, from advance communication about cases to small gestures like separating dirty instruments. Gyda shares how strong SPD partnerships have "saved her butt" countless times, with staff alerting her to competitor activities and protecting her instruments. Meanwhile, Bill offers the perspective that reps are "patients" deserving exceptional service.

Whether you're a medical device professional seeking better case outcomes or a sterile processing technician navigating vendor relationships, this conversation provides actionable insights to transform your approach. The message is clear: the SPD-sales connection isn't just about logistical efficiency—it's about recognizing our shared humanity in service of better patient care.

Want to build stronger bridges between SPD and sales? Listen now and discover how communication, respect, and collaboration create a win-win scenario for everyone involved in the surgical care journey.Support the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Send us a textEtay Gafni, founder of LayerJot, shares how AI technology is transforming sterile processing by supporting technicians with instrument identification and tray management solutions. His company's innovations help SPD teams work more efficiently while improving accuracy and reducing workload.

• LayerJot began after visiting an SPD department and recognizing the challenges technicians face memorizing thousands of instruments
• Building AI that can recognize surgical instruments required tens of thousands of photos and specialized algorithms to identify subtle differences
• SID (Surgical Instrument Directory) provides free access to a catalog of 3.5 million instruments through mobile app or website
• New SID 4.0 features include the ability to scan count sheets to instantly access instrument information
• Count Sheet AI helps departments manage their instrument lists with standardized descriptions and images
• Tray Inspector allows comparison between physical instruments and count sheets to identify equivalents or mismatches
• ORStats uses AI cameras in operating rooms to track which instruments are actually used during procedures
• Data from ORStats helps facilities reduce tray sizes by 30-50% through evidence rather than opinion
• LayerJot's philosophy focuses on supporting rather than replacing SPD professionals
• All products available through layerjot.com with free options and trial periods

Access LayerJot's free SID app at layerjot.com or through app stores to start exploring their surgical instrument catalog today.
Still using outdated count sheets that slow you down with errors and confusion? Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to Count Sheet AI—an intelligent tool that transforms messy lists into clean, image-rich, standardized sheets in seconds. ⚙️ Save time, boost accuracy, and simplify SPD workflows today. 👉 Click to learn more: 
https://qr.me-qr.com/l/sterilizationstation


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In this episode of Sterilization Station, we challenge the dangerous mindset of “just another day” in sterile processing and uncover the deeper purpose behind every shift. Behind every tray, scope, and instrument is a real patient — someone’s story, someone’s life. Your hands are part of their healing.🔍 In This Episode:

• 💡 Why “just another tray” is never just that — each one holds a human story.
• ⚠️ The real danger of becoming desensitized to the importance of our work.
• 🧠 Visualization techniques to reconnect with your purpose and see the people you serve.
• 🔄 Six mindset shifts to transform routine into meaningful contribution.
• 🌙 How every shift — day, evening, and overnight — carries unique impact and value.
• 🪞 Moving from a mindset of recovery to reflection after long, demanding shifts.
• 🎉 Why celebrating invisible wins matters — and how to do it meaningfully.

What you do today echoes forever.Stay sharp. Stay sterile. Stay lit with purpose.
Because this is not just another day.💡 Tools We Trust:

• 🔧 Countsheet AI By LayerJot – Automate documentation, reduce errors, and reclaim time in SPD.

Interested to learn more how countsheet ai can helo your hospital, surgery center, etc: https://na01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fqr.me-qr.com%2Fl%2Fsterilizationstation&data=05%7C02%7C%7Cd8807713c72047e3722808ddadb26475%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C638857703908806457%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=zQOjRcwCJ3dW2CFZworURgbA0tLqs%2FBk19WhkfrOl3k%3D&reserved=0📬 Connect with Us:
🌐 www.sterilizationstation.org
📧 sterilizationstation@outlook.com

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Send us a textEvery day in sterile processing, we're writing our legacy not with ink or on resumes, but through how we make people feel and the impact we leave on others.

• The difference between ego and legacy: ego seeks personal recognition while legacy focuses on who we've helped grow
• Five legacy killers: saying "it's not my job," correcting to control rather than coach, needing to be the smartest person, holding grudges, and belittling others
• Ways to build lasting legacy: speaking encouragement aloud, being consistent, apologizing quickly, owning mistakes, and defending others when they're not present
• Your name carries a narrative—what story will follow when people mention you after you're gone?
• You will be remembered not by how many trays you processed, but by how many hearts you touched while processing them
• If you don't like the legacy you're creating, it's never too late to rewrite your story

If you're seeking coaching or leadership training, please reach out. We have a three-tier program available to help you grow in your profession.


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Send us a textSurgical technologists ensure every instrument is sterile and ready when surgeons need them, serving as vital team members in the operating room while also training future professionals in this specialized healthcare field.

• Discovery of surgical technology often happens unexpectedly, as with Haley who switched from nursing after experiencing her first OR rotation
• Developing a "surgical conscience" means maintaining sterility standards and patient safety even when no one is watching
• Successful surgical techs must master multitasking, anticipating surgeons' needs while monitoring multiple activities in the OR
• Collaboration between surgical techs and sterile processing departments creates crucial safety checks for patient protection
• Standardization through regular meetings between departments enhances efficiency and effectiveness in surgical settings
• Continuing education and professional development pathways are essential for career advancement in surgical technology
• The profession is moving toward licensure to standardize education and practice across all states
• Cleveland Clinic's collaborative approach serves as a model for interdepartmental teamwork in healthcare settings
• First exposure to the OR can be intimidating but provides valuable perspective on the importance of instrument preparation

"Healthcare needs people who care. Don't go into this because you want to make a million dollars. Go into this because you really care about other people and you want to make the world a better place, and you can do that by each surgery that you perform."


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Send us a textSterile processing excellence is built on two powerful habits: organization and consistency, which directly impact workflow, team culture, and patient safety. Carol Malone joins us to explore how these fundamental traits form the foundation of trust in healthcare settings.

• Leaving workspaces clean and stocked is an act of kindness to coworkers and yourself
• Disorganized spaces create ripple effects that impact morale and workflow efficiency
• Visual systems like labeled storage, cleaning logs, and standardized workstations support consistency
• SCOPs (Self-Created Operating Procedures) develop when staff lack understanding of the "why" behind procedures
• Quality must always take priority over quantity in instrument processing
• Proper documentation and checklists ensure everyone receives consistent training
• Respect and simple courtesies cost nothing but contribute significantly to team cohesion
• Leaders who address conflicts quickly and hold regular one-on-ones strengthen departmental culture
• Consistent standards ensure no one can tell which technician processed a tray by its quality

Email us at sterilizationstation@outlook.com or connect with Bill Rochelle on LinkedIn to share your thoughts or suggest topics for future episodes.


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Send us a textStanding at the threshold of your sterile processing career, that first interview can feel like a daunting challenge. But what if you could transform those nerves into your greatest advantage?

This episode of Sterilization Station is dedicated to sterile processing students and externs ready to take that crucial first step into the professional world. We're breaking down the mindset shift that changes everything: you're not begging for a job—you're offering your work ethic, reliability, and hunger to learn to a department that needs precisely what you bring.

Through five game-changing interview strategies, you'll discover how to articulate your "why" with authenticity, master the essential terminology that shows your commitment, and bring concrete examples that prove your capabilities beyond classroom learning. Learn the subtle but powerful impact of professional presentation and the types of questions that make hiring managers take notice. The right department isn't just hiring hands; they're hiring a mindset, a teammate, and a future leader.

Whether you're feeling uncertain about your qualifications or simply want to ensure you make your best impression, these strategies will help you walk into that interview standing tall in your growth. As one student recently demonstrated after implementing these techniques, the difference between being overlooked and standing out often comes down to how you frame your training experience and show up with confidence.

Ready to transform how you approach your sterile processing interview? Share this episode with a classmate who's interviewing soon, follow Sterilization Station on your favorite podcast platform, and tag us on social media with your interview win using #SterilizationStation. Your career journey starts with believing you belong at the table—because you absolutely do.Support the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Send us a textCandice Plasan navigates the precision-driven worlds of surgical technology and tattoo artistry, bringing passion and creativity to both realms while drawing surprising connections between them.

• Candice's path to surgical technology was inspired by her mother's brain aneurysm during her high school years
• After technical school, she fulfilled her goal of working in the same hospital that saved her mother's life
• The high-pressure environment of surgery requires quick adaptation, precision, and emotional resilience
• Hospital culture creates "uniform chaos" where teams align instantly during emergencies despite hierarchical tensions
• Her current role as Guardian Service Specialist at Richard Wolf Medical Instruments allows her to build meaningful relationships across hospital departments
• Apprenticing in tattoo artistry fulfilled her lifelong artistic passion that she had kept private for years
• Her husband, also a tattoo artist, has been instrumental in encouraging her creative development
• Surgical experience enhances her understanding of anatomy, improving her artistic abilities
• Medical knowledge of sterilization and safety protocols transfers directly to professional tattoo practices
• Recently launched Family Tradition Tattoos as a creative lifestyle brand with her husband
• Recognized as GSS of the Year, validating her passion and expertise in medical equipment servicing
• Planning to bring creative approaches to medical environments through future projects

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone who might need encouragement to blend their own diverse passions.


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Send us a textBurnout in sterile processing is a silent epidemic affecting the healthcare heroes who ensure every surgical instrument is safe for patient use. What causes dedicated SPD professionals to reach their breaking point, and how can we create more sustainable work environments?

In this candid conversation with sterile processing thought leader Hank Balch, founder of Beyond Clean, we dive deep into the ten most common factors contributing to burnout in SPD departments nationwide. From the crushing weight of understaffing to the psychological impact of constant high-stakes work, Hank shares insights gained from years leading departments and advocating for the profession.

The discussion takes an unexpected turn when Hank challenges conventional wisdom about certification as the primary path for career advancement in sterile processing. "We've been singing that song for 50 years," he notes, suggesting that the industry has perhaps placed too much emphasis on certification alone while overlooking other pathways for recognition and growth.

Leaders will find practical guidance for creating burnout-aware cultures through transparency, appropriate accountability, and recognition of both professional and personal challenges. Meanwhile, frontline technicians will discover validation for their experiences and strategies for protecting their well-being while continuing to perform critical patient safety work.

Whether you're feeling the effects of burnout yourself or leading a team through challenging times, this episode offers both understanding and actionable solutions. Share it with your colleagues, managers, or anyone who needs to hear that they're not alone in this essential but often overlooked healthcare field. The fight against burnout in sterile processing starts with acknowledging the problem and coming together as a community to support one another.Support the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Send us a textThe externship drought in sterile processing education creates a significant barrier for students who've completed their coursework but can't find clinical placements to finish certification. Bill Rishell offers 25 proven strategies to break through this challenge and secure the hands-on experience needed to launch your career.

• Connect with local HSPA or CBSPD chapters to build professional relationships with decision-makers
• Ask instructors for alumni contacts who might provide referrals
• Network with SPD leaders on LinkedIn by creating a professional profile
• Offer to shadow before requesting an externship to build trust
• Reach out to surgical techs, nurses and transporters for internal referrals
• Follow up with hospitals every 7-10 days to demonstrate persistence
• Keep a detailed tracker of applications to organize your follow-up efforts
• Investigate if hospitals partner with specific programs you could enroll in
• Apply to smaller surgery centers and outpatient clinics that may be less competitive
• Contact SPD departments directly rather than just applying through HR
• Create a professional LinkedIn profile highlighting your search
• Request recommendation letters from your program to strengthen applications
• Develop a one-page resume specifically for externship applications
• Volunteer elsewhere in a hospital to make internal connections
• Engage actively in online SPD communities for networking
• Offer flexible hours including nights and weekends that others might avoid
• Write personalized emails sharing your passion and personal story
• Drop off resumes in person when possible to make an impression
• Create comprehensive externship pitch packets with all documentation
• Ask smaller facilities if they can make exceptions to their usual policies
• Apply to at least 25 different locations to increase your chances
• Don't assume silence means rejection – follow up consistently
• Consider opportunities that require travel if necessary
• Prepare a concise value proposition statement for interviews
• Maintain belief that your persistence will eventually pay off

Keep knocking, keep showing up, and don't you dare give up. Share your experiences with the community by tagging Sterilization Station on social media and connecting with others on the same journey.


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Send us a textSterile processing coaches provide essential support for SPD professionals navigating increasingly complex medical instruments and heightened patient safety standards in 2025. A coach serves as your guide through the journey from basic memorization to true mastery, meeting you where you are and helping you grow with purpose.

• Understanding what a sterile processing coach is – not just a trainer, but someone who explains the "why" behind procedures
• Exploring the complex 2025 SPD landscape with robotic instruments, digital tracking systems, and stricter compliance
• Recognizing coaching as essential rather than optional in today's demanding environment
• Learning how coaching transformed "Marcus" from nearly quitting to mentoring others
• Understanding why coaching works – focusing on thinking skills rather than mere task completion
• Discovering how coaching helped "Jasmine" overcome exam anxiety and pass her CRCST with 91%
• Exploring the three-tier coaching program for different career stages
• Tier one focuses on foundations for new techs and students
• Tier two helps working techs level up with case-based training
• Tier three prepares leads and educators with leadership development

To apply for coaching, DM the word "coach" or visit www.sterilizationstation.org and click "Get Coaching" in the top right corner. You can also email sterilizationstation@outlook.com for more information or to schedule an exploratory call fill out this form : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/16w5ERl1PRtdJ4iHrPbirBG9o6DpBUSfVITjU5NonK0k/edit?usp=sharing_eil&invite=CO7JrvgL&ts=6803c9a1


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Send us a textCliff Russell from SterisIMS takes us through the "Y" in our CYCLE mini-series, focusing on "Your Hands Matter" - the critical assembly and inspection phase where precision becomes patient protection.

• Assembly and inspection as the last checkpoint before instruments reach surgery
• The hidden complexity behind "just putting trays together"
• Real consequences of missed defects, including instrument failures during procedures
• Using appropriate testing materials for different instrument types
• Balancing time pressure with thorough inspection
• Scissors as the most commonly undertested instrument in SPD
• Creating standardized workstations with proper testing tools
• The importance of checking box locks and inspecting for cracks
• Using vendor partners for education, audits, and competency validation
• Making IFUs accessible through daily huddles, trivia, and interactive learning
• Building confidence through peer mentorship and creating a culture where mistakes can be discussed
• Pro tips including proper instrument placement, matching correct components, and using magnification
• The role of technology in transforming instrument inspection

Use your vendors as resources for education and audits - they're here to partner with you in creating the safest patient outcomes possible.


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Send us a textJohn Huaco shares his journey as both a surgical technologist and soccer coach, revealing how passion, precision, and teamwork create success in both the operating room and on the field. His dual career path demonstrates that skills developed in one profession can significantly enhance performance in another, creating a positive feedback loop of continuous improvement.

• Found his calling as a surgical technologist after experiencing surgery as a patient
• Has dedicated 15 years to surgical technology, helping build his facility from the ground up
• Balances work at two different hospitals—one unionized, one non-unionized—with very different cultures
• Coaches multiple youth soccer teams as a volunteer, bringing the same dedication to the field as the OR
• Views patience and positive reinforcement as essential in both surgical mentoring and youth coaching
• Believes creating confidence is the foundation for success in both medical and athletic environments
• Emphasizes that finding joy in your work is crucial—"why be there if you're not going to have fun?"
• Defines success as staying "rich in happiness" rather than focusing solely on financial rewards
• Recommends maintaining discipline, proper sleep, and nutrition to balance multiple passions
• Advises those torn between different interests to "spread it out, give both some love"

Join us next time as we continue exploring the hidden heroes of healthcare and the diverse passions that drive excellence in our industry.


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