Strong Skills, Weak EI: A Dangerous Combination

Beyond The Mask: Innovation & Opportunities For CRNAs · Apr 1, 2026 · 55m

Today we’re taking listeners beyond technical skill and into one of the most critical yet often overlooked competencies in the operating room: emotional intelligence. In a profession defined by precision, timing, and high-stakes decision-making, the ability to understand and manage emotions can be just as vital as mastering airway management or pharmacology.

Joining the conversation is Brian Barry, who brings a powerful perspective on how emotional intelligence shapes not only individual performance but also team dynamics, leadership effectiveness, and ultimately patient outcomes.

Here’s some…