Coffee and a Gas

In this episode of Coffee & a Gas, we’re joined by Professor Cliff Shelton and Dr Paul Southall, co-authors of the new consensus guidelines on the use of sterile gowns for single-shot spinal anaesthesia. We explore the evidence behind the guidance, what good aseptic practice really looks like, and how we balance patient safety with sustainable anaesthesia. Download the guideline: https://anaesthetists.org/Guidelines-and-publications/Guidelines/Use-of-sterile-gowns-for-single-shot-spinal-anaesthesia-consensus-guidelines Watch the webinar on the topic: https://anaesthetists.org/Home/Education-events/Events/Event-Details/eventDateId/1055

What happens when you step outside the anaesthetic room? In this episode of Coffee & a Gas, we chat with Roger McMorrow about life outside medicine, finding fulfilment beyond work, and the importance of maintaining an identity beyond being a doctor. Grab a coffee and join us for a refreshing conversation about making space for the things that matter beyond medicine.

Becoming a consultant is one of the biggest milestones in an anaesthetist’s career - but it can also be one of the most challenging. In this episode, Dr Toni Robinson and Dr Joe Pick are joined by consultant anaesthetist Dr Annie Pinder to discuss what really changes after CCT, the surprises of independent practice, and practical advice for thriving in those crucial first few years. Whether you’re approaching the end of training or simply curious about what’s ahead, this episode is packed with honest reflections, reassurance and tips to help make the transition a little smoother.

Joe Pick is joined by Andrew McLeod, lead author of the updated 2026 guidelines on consent in anaesthesia.

You’ve found your feet as an anaesthetic resident. Now it’s time to tackle specialist rotations, increased responsibility and the Final FRCA. Dr Toni Robinson is joined by Dr Emma O’Neill to discuss practical advice on navigating Stage 2 training, avoiding common pitfalls and building a sustainable career in anaesthesia.

You’ve worked out how to navigate portfolio and training. Now it’s time to take the next step, becoming a senior resident and working out what kind of consultant you are going to be. Joe Pick is joined by Mo Amer to discuss practical advice on how to thrive in stage 3 and how to start planning for your future.    

Joe Pick is joined by Head of Education and Events at the Association of Anaesthetists, Zack Puttock, to discuss upcoming events and education brought to you by the Association.

In this episode of our ‘stages’ series we discuss the challenges faced by the mid-career anaesthetist. It’s an often forgotten about stage of life and a career, where direction and purpose can be unclear. We are joined in this podcast by Dr Lois Brand an emergency medicine consultant and specialised coach who runs popular career pit stop sessions and Dr Robert Self VP of the Association of Anaesthetists. Links https://careerpitstop.co.uk

In this deeply honest episode, Lucy reflects on a traumatic experience from early in her medical training and how its psychological impact followed her into clinical practice. We explore PTSD, imposter syndrome, and the hidden emotional burden of working in high-pressure specialties like anaesthetics. This conversation shines a light on the gap between outward competence and inner struggle, the culture of silence around trauma in medicine, and why acknowledging our humanity matters for long-term wellbeing. We also signpost to support available for anaesthetists through the Association of Anaesthetists: Wellbeing & support hub https://anaesthetists.org/Home/Wellbeing-support Mental wellbeing guidance https://anaesthetists.org/Home/Wellbeing-support/Mental-wellbeing Emergency contacts & support services https://anaesthetists.org/Wellbeing/Emergency-contacts Wellbeing leads & career support https://anaesthetists.org/Home/Wellbeing-support/Career-support/Wellbeing-Leads 

Dr Joe Pick is joined by Dr Rachel Clarke (palliative care doctor, author and former tv journalist) discussing the importance of storytelling in medicine and how you can make it part of your day-to-day practice.