Beyond Clean Podcast
Even though their tools and equipment touch nearly every surgical patient in the world, how much do you really know about the people, processes, and products used in the Sterile Processing industry? Beyond Clean offers a creative look into the inner workings of a healthcare industry surrounded by challenges, disrupted by change, and committed to getting it right -- every instrument, every time. The team at Beyond Clean will bring on some of the biggest names in surgical instrument reprocessing and provide commentary on the biggest issues facing Sterile Processing professionals, facilities, administrators, manufacturers, and vendors. Join us every week as we explore the hidden world of one of the most important aspect of safe surgical care.
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Season 22 Rewind - Still Sticking Around: Thinking Through Residual Protein
09/14/2026
Season 22 Rewind - Still Sticking Around: Thinking Through Residual Protein
We’re gearing up for an all-new season of Beyond Clean! Until then, we’re bringing some of our Season 22 favorites back to your feed. Enjoy! Join us this week on Beyond Clean as we chat with Rory Burke, Lead Medical Supply Technician and member of the Beyond Clean Advisory Group, about consumables such as protein residue testing tools in Sterile Processing. On this episode, we discuss the differences between ATP and protein methods, workflow considerations, guidelines and standards around testing, and best practices for investigating failures. Rory provides perspective from the front lines on why protein testing adds value in monitoring cleaning effectiveness and how see it fitting into the broader goal of #FightingDirty. Don't miss this insightful conversation about optimizing quality and safety through cleaning verification testing! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access 350+ FREE CE credits and #KeepFightingDirty!
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Season 22 Rewind - Passing the Clean Test? The Variables of Verification
09/07/2026
Season 22 Rewind - Passing the Clean Test? The Variables of Verification
We’re gearing up for an all-new season of Beyond Clean! Until then, we’re bringing some of our Season 22 favorites back to your feed. Enjoy! Clean? Really Clean? Just a Dream? What does "Clean" even mean? Join us for this week's new release from Season 22 on Beyond Clean, featuring Pawel de Sternberg Stojalowski, an expert in decontamination science and cleaning verification fanatic! We pitch Pawel some of the most important questions related to clinically relevant test soils, optimizing washer loading techniques, and adopting a critical thinking approach to achieving true cleanliness in our workflows. Tune in to hear about emerging technologies like automation and AI in Sterile Processing, and the impact they may have on our conceptions of what's possible as 21st century #CleanFreaks! We hope you can join us! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access 350+ FREE CE credits and #KeepFightingDirty!
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Season 22 Rewind - What Does a Bowie Dick Do?: A Deep Dive on Air vs. Sterilization
08/31/2026
Season 22 Rewind - What Does a Bowie Dick Do?: A Deep Dive on Air vs. Sterilization
We’re gearing up for an all-new season of Beyond Clean! Until then, we’re bringing some of our Season 22 favorites back to your feed. Enjoy! How well do you really know the Bowie Dick test? Join Don Tumminelli as he kicks off our Season 22 premiere and unpacks the history, science, and purpose behind this crucial daily sterilizer challenge test and one of the least understood SPD consumable. Learn proper test pack placement, cycle parameters, result interpretation, and troubleshooting steps for failures. Discover the difference between assessing air removal vs sterilization efficacy. Uncover common myths and look ahead to potential future advancements. Tune in to master the Bowie Dick test to optimize patient safety, comply with standards, and keep your department running smoothly! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access 350+ FREE CE credits and #KeepFightingDirty!
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Built Different - Credit(s) Where It’s Due: How Educational Programs Become CE-Approved
08/24/2026
Built Different - Credit(s) Where It’s Due: How Educational Programs Become CE-Approved
You press play, pass the quiz, and add another CE to your collection. But have you ever wondered what it takes for that education to become CE-approved in the first place? In this Season 33 finale episode, Bobby and Jason are turning the mic to Beyond Clean's Chelsea Schmitz for a behind-the-scenes look at how continuing education programs become CE-approved. With more than 500 CE submissions under her belt, Chels walks through how educational content goes from an idea to an approved CE, what it takes to maintain CE-approved content, and what separates meaningful education from another hour spent checking a requirement off the list. We’re closing out a season dedicated to training in SPD with a look at what goes into the education that keeps #CleanFreaks and our industry moving forward. Don't miss this season finale! After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Season33 #BuiltDifferent #TrainingInSPD #CE #ContinuingEducation #CEApproved #Education
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Built Different - Built to Last: The Value of Physical Training for the SPD Professional
08/17/2026
Built Different - Built to Last: The Value of Physical Training for the SPD Professional
Sore feet? Aching knees? Tight shoulders? If you work in SPD, you probably just checked at least one of these boxes. In this week's episode of "Built Different: Training in SPD," Bobby and Jason connect with SPD professional and competitive bodybuilder Rebecca Lauber to talk about a side of the job we don't discuss nearly enough: the physical toll it can take on your body. From lifting heavy trays and pushing loaded carts to spending hours on your feet, Rebecca highlights small changes that can help technicians protect their bodies throughout the workday and beyond. She also discusses how movement, recovery, smarter ergonomics, and speaking up about pain can help you better handle the physical demands of the job. Consider this your SPD wellness check -- press play today! After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Season33 #BuiltDifferent #TrainingInSPD #PhysicalTraining #Ergonomics #Wellness #ProtectYourBody #FitForSPD
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Built Different - Level Up: Developing Your SPD Team Through Gamification
08/10/2026
Built Different - Level Up: Developing Your SPD Team Through Gamification
What if a little friendly competition could change the way your SPD team learns? This week, Bobby and Jason sit down with Ashley Thompson to talk about how gamification can turn everyday education into something technicians actually want to participate in. She shares how points, quizzes, personalized rewards, and healthy competition helped her team take a more active role in their own learning and professional growth. And the results go far beyond winning a game: from more engaging huddles to a 100% CRCST certification rate, Ashley's experience shows what's possible when learning becomes part of the culture. If you're ready to bring some new energy to education in your SPD, it's time to press play! BONUS CONTENT: Check out Ashley’s "Points with Purpose" handout here: After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Season33 #BuiltDifferent #TrainingInSPD #Gamification #Education #Certification #Competition #Learning #ProfessionalGrowth
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Built Different - Same Page, Every Shift: The Case for Standardization in SPD
08/03/2026
Built Different - Same Page, Every Shift: The Case for Standardization in SPD
If you ask three technicians how a process gets done in your SPD, there's a good chance you'll get three different answers. So how do you get everyone on the same page? In this week's episode of "Built Different: Training in SPD," Jhmeid Billingslea joins the conversation to explain why standardization is about much more than writing another SOP. He breaks down the difference between policies and SOPs, why the best processes are built with frontline technicians, and how clear expectations help teams work toward the same goal. If you're ready to get every shift moving in the same direction, you won't want to miss this conversation! After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Season33 #BuiltDifferent #TrainingInSPD #Standardization #SOP #Policy #Competency #Goals #Consistency
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Built Different - Checking a Box, or Checking a Skill? The Truth about Annual Competencies
07/27/2026
Built Different - Checking a Box, or Checking a Skill? The Truth about Annual Competencies
Are your annual competencies actually measuring proficiency, or just checking boxes? This week, Bobby and Jason sit down with SPD educator Tanya Cambise for an honest conversation about what annual competencies should look like in Sterile Processing. Tanya explains why competency verification isn't about checking another box; it's about ensuring your team can confidently and consistently perform every task in your workflows. From using quality data and daily observations to spotting process drift and targeting high-risk skills, she shares how departments can move beyond the same return demonstrations year after year and focus education where it matters most. If you're ready to rethink annual competencies in your SPD, this conversation is a great place to start! After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Season33 #BuiltDifferent #TrainingInSPD #Competencies #Documentation #Checklist #Verification #AnnualCompetency #Education
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Built Different - Beyond the Binder: Tracking Competencies with Technology
07/20/2026
Built Different - Beyond the Binder: Tracking Competencies with Technology
Dig out those competency binders, #CleanFreaks! On this episode of Beyond Clean, Bobby Parker and co-host Jason Minutillo welcome Jeremy Bernier to discuss what it really takes to bring a competency program into the digital age. He explains why modernizing your competencies isn't just about incorporating technology; it's about creating a system that supports continuous learning, reflects real workflows, and grows alongside your department. From aligning education with everyday practice to engaging frontline technicians, Jeremy shares his biggest takeaways for building a competency program that stays relevant long after survey season has passed. If you're looking for smarter ways to keep your competencies current, consistent, and meaningful, this episode is a must-listen! After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Season33 #BuiltDifferent #TrainingInSPD #Competencies #Documentation #Digital #Technology #Education #Workflows
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Built Different - Cap and Gown (and Gloves): SPD Collegiate Programs
07/13/2026
Built Different - Cap and Gown (and Gloves): SPD Collegiate Programs
Looking around your SPD, chances are many of your fellow #CleanFreaks found their way into Sterile Processing through very different journeys. But that's beginning to change. This week, we sit down with Veronica Martinez, Sterile Processing Coordinator at Mountainland Technical College, to explore how collegiate programs are changing the way people begin their careers in Sterile Processing. Veronica shares how hands-on labs, clinical partnerships, and classroom learning prepare students before they ever step into an SPD. She also explains why curiosity, critical thinking, and understanding the "why" behind every process are just as important as learning the tasks themselves. If you're considering a collegiate program or welcoming new graduates into your department, this episode will have you rethinking what it means to prepare for a career in SPD! After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Season33 #BuiltDifferent #TrainingInSPD #CollegiatePrograms #Classroom #Learning #CareerDevelopment #Graduate
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Built Different - Competent to Lead: Building Leaders Before Building Teams
07/06/2026
Built Different - Competent to Lead: Building Leaders Before Building Teams
Every strong SPD starts with strong leadership. The question is: how do you build it? On the Season 33 premiere of Beyond Clean, we sit down with Jason Minutillo and Concepcion "Connie" Class Ballejo to explore what it really takes to prepare new leaders before they're expected to lead. They discuss everything from mentorship and structured onboarding to creating support systems that help new managers build relationships, gain confidence, and grow into their roles from day one. Whether you're stepping into leadership for the first time or mentoring the next generation, this conversation is packed with practical ideas to help your team become truly built different. After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Season33 #BuiltDifferent #TrainingInSPD #Leadership #Leader #Teams #Mentoring #Onboarding
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Confidence in Every Cycle: Reducing Guesswork in Sterilization Monitoring
06/05/2026
Confidence in Every Cycle: Reducing Guesswork in Sterilization Monitoring
Sterilization monitoring shouldn’t slow your department down. On this week’s Beyond Clean Vendor Spotlight™, Matt Linabery and Larry Talapa from Solventum join us to share how Solventum’s latest solutions are helping SPD teams simplify workflows while increasing confidence in their sterilization monitoring processes. From the digital pass/fail results and innovative technology of the 3M™ Attest™ eBowie-Dick Test System to the preassembled 3M™ Attest™ Super Rapid Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide Clear Challenge Pack and 3M™ Attest™ Steam Clear Challenge Packs designed to save time and improve consistency, these innovative solutions were built for the growing demands of today’s SPD. Tune in today to discover how Solventum is helping Sterile Processing departments rethink efficiency, standardization, and monitoring across their sterilization workflows. Learn more about Solventum’s Attest™ Sterilization Assurance solutions by visiting or connecting with your local sales rep. Be sure to check out their library of white papers (see links below) and educational resources for additional insights into their sterilization monitoring solutions.
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SPD Fact Check - Not All It’s Cracked Up to Be: Rethinking the Post-Cycle Door Habit
05/25/2026
SPD Fact Check - Not All It’s Cracked Up to Be: Rethinking the Post-Cycle Door Habit
Your steam cycle finishes, and out of habit, someone cracks the sterilizer door. Sound familiar? On this episode of Beyond Clean, we sit down with Echo Pontinen, Sterile Processing Educator at Lee Health, to take a closer look at the long-standing practice of cracking the sterilizer door after a cycle. This conversation will dive into what sterilizer IFUs actually recommend, why wet loads happen in the first place, and how practices meant to “help” can sometimes prevent teams from identifying bigger issues with equipment, water quality, and more. As we wrap up the season, Echo leaves us with one final SPD fact check that may have your team asking whether your current process is solving the problem or hiding it. After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. 🎉That’s a wrap on another incredible season of Beyond Clean! A huge thank you to our guests for sharing their expertise and to our #CleanFreaks for listening and learning with us all season long. We’ll see you soon for Season 33! #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Podcast #Season32 #SPDFactCheck #SteamSterilization #WetLoads #CrackedSterilizerDoor #IFU #Workflow
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SPD Fact Check - Scope Sterilization Standoff: Steam vs. Low-Temp for Rigid Endoscopes
05/18/2026
SPD Fact Check - Scope Sterilization Standoff: Steam vs. Low-Temp for Rigid Endoscopes
At first glance, most rigid endoscopes look pretty much the same. So why can some be steam sterilized while others absolutely can’t? On this episode of “SPD Fact Check,” Kurt Audette, Clinical Specialist at KARL STORZ, helps us look beyond the surface and into the complex design features that determine how rigid endoscopes should be reprocessed. From understanding how optics respond to temperature changes to why light post adapters should almost always be removed before sterilization, Kurt connects the anatomy of the scope to the realities of SPD workflow. Whether you're processing rigid scopes every day or still trying to decode the IFUs, this conversation brings much-needed clarity to one of Sterile Processing’s most nuanced reprocessing topics. For more rigid endoscope reprocessing insights, check out Kurt’s Beyond Clean Rigid Endoscope Expert Series™ here: After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Podcast #Season32 #SPDFactCheck #RigidEndoscopes #IFU #Endoscope #SteamSterilization #LowTempSterilization
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SPD Fact Check - Cupboards, Carts, & Corkboards: Managing Sterile Storage Outside the SPD/OR
05/11/2026
SPD Fact Check - Cupboards, Carts, & Corkboards: Managing Sterile Storage Outside the SPD/OR
Your SPD has temperature controls, storage policies, and carefully designed workflows to protect sterility. So what happens when your instruments leave your facility and head to a clinic across town? This week, we’re sitting down with Krystal Parrish to explore the real-world challenges of maintaining sterile storage best practices across clinics and specialty practices. From soiled instruments wrapped in paper towels to sterile supplies stored in office drawers, Krystal shares what her team has uncovered while supporting more than 40 off-site locations. She also discusses how SPD leaders can improve transport and storage practices through education, collaboration, and consistency while still maintaining the trust of the teams they support. If your instruments travel beyond the walls of your facility, this episode will have you taking a closer look at what happens after they leave your department. After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Podcast #Season32 #SPDFactCheck #SterileStorage #Transportation #BestPractices #StorageStandards #Consistency
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The Last Black Speck: How One Team Solved the Debris Problem for Good
05/06/2026
The Last Black Speck: How One Team Solved the Debris Problem for Good
What does it really take to make sure a black speck problem never comes back? In the final episode of “What the Speck?,” Sterile Processing expert Kendra Lucas shares the real-world story of how her team worked through one of the most disruptive debris issues a department can face. From canceled surgeries and strained OR/SPD relationships to the detailed root cause analysis needed to uncover the source, Kendra walks us through the investigation that finally revealed what was really happening behind the scenes. Because solving the mystery is one thing—but making sure it never returns is the real victory. Over the next 6 weeks, this series dives into one of sterile processing’s most frustrating challenges—black specks. From water and steam quality to department culture, risk assessments, and root cause analysis, we’re digging into every angle to uncover real answers (and real solutions) for your SPD. A special thanks to our sponsor, Aesculap®, for supporting this podcast series! #BeyondClean #Aesculap #SterileProcessing #WhatTheSpeck #BlackSpecks #SurgicalTrays #Podcast
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On Pathogens & PPE: Taking the Lead in SPD
05/05/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Taking the Lead in SPD
You’re doing the work. You’re solving the problems. Now it’s time to take the lead! On this Season 2 finale of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth is joined by Kelly Zabriskie, Lee Smith, Dr. Kevin Bush, and David Jagrosse to take a closer look at what leadership really means in Sterile Processing. From finding your voice and building confidence to forming partnerships and stepping beyond the walls of SPD, this group shares what it takes to grow as a leader at every level. Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role or leading with years of experience, this episode will challenge you to think bigger about your role and your impact. You won’t want to miss this one, #CleanFreaks! That’s a wrap on Season 2! Thank you for coming along for the ride, and a big shoutout to our incredible host and special guests for making it all possible. All episodes are now streaming—listen wherever you get your podcasts, or you can catch them on the Beyond Clean and Transmission Control websites. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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SPD Fact Check - Now You See Me: When Borescopes Reveal Dirty Instruments
05/04/2026
SPD Fact Check - Now You See Me: When Borescopes Reveal Dirty Instruments
You run a borescope through an instrument, and something doesn’t look right. Is it debris? Damage? Or has it always been there? On this episode of Beyond Clean, we’re joined by William Filipponi to break down one of the biggest challenges teams face after implementing borescopes: knowing what you’re actually looking at. From telling the difference between debris and manufacturing artifact to building reference tools that help your team make confident calls, Bill walks us through how to make sense of what you’re seeing inside your instruments for the first time. Whether you're new to borescopes or looking to strengthen your process, this episode brings clarity to one of the biggest learning curves in SPD. After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Podcast #Season32 #SPDFactCheck #Borescopes #InstrumentInspection #SurgicalInstruments #Debris
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A Speck in Your Eye: Putting an End to the Finger-Pointing
04/29/2026
A Speck in Your Eye: Putting an End to the Finger-Pointing
Black specks may be small, but the tension they create between departments can be anything but. In this episode of “What the Speck?,” Alex Miseirvitch from Aesculap® joins us again to talk about one of the most overlooked challenges in solving the black speck mystery—finger-pointing. When trays are rejected and surgeries are delayed, the pressure to find someone responsible can quickly overshadow the real goal: protecting patients and solving the issue together. Alex shares lessons from the field on how teams can move past blame and work together to find real solutions. Because when everyone is focused on proving who’s right, it becomes a lot harder to solve what’s actually wrong. Tune in today! Over the next 6 weeks, this series dives into one of sterile processing’s most frustrating challenges—black specks. From water and steam quality to department culture, risk assessments, and root cause analysis, we’re digging into every angle to uncover real answers (and real solutions) for your SPD. A special thanks to our sponsor, Aesculap®, for supporting this podcast series! #BeyondClean #Aesculap #SterileProcessing #WhatTheSpeck #BlackSpecks #SurgicalTrays #Podcast
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On Pathogens & PPE: Assembly Without Disruptions
04/28/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Assembly Without Disruptions
You’re building a tray. The phone rings. Someone needs an update. You step away… and just like that, the process breaks. On this week’s episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth and co-host Katie Belski are joined by Art Babiy, Jennifer Greisen, and Ebow Holdbrook-Smith to talk through the real challenges #CleanFreaks are facing in assembly areas. From stepping away mid-tray and chasing down tools to managing constant distractions and pressure from the OR, this conversation calls out the moments where processes can break down and how your team can stay on track. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to move faster while still getting it right, this episode is for you! Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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SPD Fact Check - The $4,999 Problem: What Invoice Splitting Really Costs SPD Leaders
04/27/2026
SPD Fact Check - The $4,999 Problem: What Invoice Splitting Really Costs SPD Leaders
$4,999. In many SPDs, that number can be the difference between getting what your department needs—or waiting months for approval. On this episode of Beyond Clean, we’re joined by Stephen Benzel, Director of Accounting at LifeSpring Health Systems, to take a closer look at the financial decisions directly impacting how your SPD operates day to day. From the risks tied to splitting invoices to how budget structures can push teams toward short-term workarounds, Stephen brings clarity to the financial side of Sterile Processing. He also explores what stronger collaboration with finance really looks like and how it can change the outcome for your team. If you’ve ever felt caught between what your department needs and how you’re going to pay for it, this episode is one you don’t want to miss! After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Podcast #Season32 #SPDFactCheck #InvoiceSplitting #Finance #Expenses #CapitalSpending #OperationalCosts
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Problems in the Pipes: Is Water Causing Your Black Specks?
04/22/2026
Problems in the Pipes: Is Water Causing Your Black Specks?
When black specks show up in your trays, water is often the first suspect—but is it really to blame? In this episode of “What the Speck?,” Christian Abell from Aesculap’s Surgical Asset Management team dives into one of the most common theories behind the black speck mystery: water quality. From city water changes and construction disturbances to failing filters and aging equipment, Christian breaks down how contaminants can make their way from the pipes into your reprocessing workflows. If you’ve ever suspected the culprit might be hiding somewhere in your water system, the trail of clues may lead straight to the pipes. Over the next 6 weeks, this series dives into one of sterile processing’s most frustrating challenges—black specks. From water and steam quality to department culture, risk assessments, and root cause analysis, we’re digging into every angle to uncover real answers (and real solutions) for your SPD. A special thanks to our sponsor, Aesculap®, for supporting this podcast series! #BeyondClean #Aesculap #SterileProcessing #WhatTheSpeck #BlackSpecks #SurgicalTrays #Podcast
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On Pathogens & PPE: Why Brush Selection Matters
04/21/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Why Brush Selection Matters
Think one brush fits all? Think again! On this week’s episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” hosts Jill Holdsworth and Trevor Hazen are joined by Nelson Winter, Emily Barnard, and Ron Hunsucker to take a closer look at how brush selection, sizing, and technique impact your manual cleaning process. From choosing the right brush size and type to knowing when a brush has reached the end of its life, this group calls out the habits that can quietly compromise your workflow. They also highlight how training, storage, and daily practices can make or break consistency across your team. Grab your favorite brushes and tune in, #CleanFreaks —chances are, you’ll be taking a second look at them after this one! Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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SPD Fact Check - Just Roll with It? The Dirty Truth about Instrument Transport
04/20/2026
SPD Fact Check - Just Roll with It? The Dirty Truth about Instrument Transport
It might only be a few steps from the OR to decontam, so how do you ensure your instruments get there safely? This week on Season 32 “SPD Fact Check,” we’re joined by veteran Sterile Processing consultant Marc Finch as he shares what it really takes to move contaminated instruments safely through your facility. From what AAMI ST79 requires to why back table drapes and biohazard bags fall short, Marc walks us through the critical steps that can often be overlooked. He also highlights how gaps in transport practices can expose staff, damage instruments, and create risks throughout your workflow. Whether your team is moving instruments down the hall or across multiple floors, this episode will have you taking a closer look at how your transport process holds up. After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Podcast #Season32 #SPDFactCheck #InstrumentTransport #CaseCart #BiohazardBag #Safety #Compliance
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Clear the Air: Rethinking PPE Protection in SPD
04/17/2026
Clear the Air: Rethinking PPE Protection in SPD
Is the PPE your team relies on actually built for the environment you work in? On this week’s Beyond Clean Vendor Spotlight™, Ken Arthur and Desiree Acedo from MAXAIR® Systems join us to explore how the MAXAIR® CAPR® system is redefining safety, comfort, and protection in high-heat, high-moisture decontamination environments. With ANSI-AAMI PB 70 Level 4 Fluid/Splash and NIOSH Approved Respiratory protection, adjustable airflow, and a lightweight, fog-free design, this innovative PPE helps techs stay protected and comfortable through even the toughest days in decontam. From reducing fatigue to staying dry at the sink, discover what a difference the right PPE can make—tune in today! Visit to learn more and get connected with your local MAXAIR Systems representative. Be sure to stop by booth #1238 at HSPA for a chance to win your own CAPR system and experience it firsthand. Plus, follow MAXAIR Systems on for product updates, insights, and resources on PPE and staff safety!
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A Trail of Breadcrumbs: Getting to the Source of Your Black Speck Issue
04/15/2026
A Trail of Breadcrumbs: Getting to the Source of Your Black Speck Issue
Behind every black speck is a process, a piece of equipment, or a hidden culprit waiting to be discovered. In this episode of “What the Speck?,” SPD professional and consultant Warren Nist joins us to discuss how departments can move beyond identifying debris and begin uncovering the root cause behind it. From quality reports and workflow data to full department risk assessments, Warren walks through how experienced SPD teams track contamination back to its source. We also uncover some surprising culprits—from worn equipment components to debris hiding inside washers, carts, and even on hospital floors. If your team is trying to connect the dots and eliminate the problem for good, this episode offers a practical roadmap for getting there. Over the next 6 weeks, this series dives into one of sterile processing’s most frustrating challenges—black specks. From water and steam quality to department culture, risk assessments, and root cause analysis, we’re digging into every angle to uncover real answers (and real solutions) for your SPD. A special thanks to our sponsor, Aesculap®, for supporting this podcast series! #BeyondClean #Aesculap #SterileProcessing #WhatTheSpeck #BlackSpecks #SurgicalTrays #Podcast
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On Pathogens & PPE: What’s Hiding in Your Lumens
04/14/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: What’s Hiding in Your Lumens
You followed the IFU. You brushed. You flushed. So it’s clean… right? On this week’s episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” hosts Jill Holdsworth and Brandon Gantt are teaming up with Aaron Preston, Cheron Rojo, and Jahan Azizi to take a closer look at what’s hiding inside your lumen instruments. As more departments adopt borescopes, teams are uncovering retained debris, moisture, and internal damage that would have otherwise gone unnoticed, even when reprocessing steps were correctly followed. From understanding what you’re seeing to knowing what to do when something doesn’t look right, these experts highlight the gaps between process and proof and why education, training, and consistency are key to making borescopes part of your everyday workflow. Tune in today! Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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SPD Fact Check - Workin' at the Cart Wash: Exploring SPD's Biggest Washer
04/13/2026
SPD Fact Check - Workin' at the Cart Wash: Exploring SPD's Biggest Washer
Case carts in, case carts out—but do you really know what’s happening inside your SPD’s cart washer? On this episode of Beyond Clean, we’re joined by Angus Bruce as he breaks down what modern cart washers are actually capable of—and where teams can run into trouble without realizing it. From when it makes sense to run instruments through them to why your chemistries might be expiring in the detergent room, Angus walks us through the decisions that can’t be overlooked. He also highlights how gaps in maintenance and setup can quietly contribute to particulate contamination showing up in your surgical trays. Tune in as we take a closer look at one of the most relied-on pieces of equipment in your department. We hope you can join us! After finishing this podcast episode, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked here: Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #Podcast #Season32 #SPDFactCheck #CartWasher #CaseCarts #Workflows #Maintenance #Detergents #SPDEquipment
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From Speck to Source: What Exactly Is a “Black Speck?”
04/08/2026
From Speck to Source: What Exactly Is a “Black Speck?”
When a black speck shows up in a surgical tray, the first question is simple: “What is it?” But as many Sterile Processing teams discover, the answer is anything but straightforward. On this episode of “What the Speck?,” global reprocessing expert Dr. Gerhard Kirmse from Aesculap joins us to explore the science of identifying this pesky, unidentified debris and to tackle the question at the center of the mystery: “What exactly is a black speck?” From microscopic analysis and lab testing to on-site investigations inside washers, sterilizers, and steam systems, Dr. Kirmse explains how experts piece together the clues to uncover the real source behind these particles. Tune in to discover how science, collaboration, and a little detective work come together to solve one of SPD’s most frustrating mysteries. Over the next 6 weeks, this series dives into one of sterile processing’s most frustrating challenges—black specks. From water and steam quality to department culture, risk assessments, and root cause analysis, we’re digging into every angle to uncover real answers (and real solutions) for your SPD. A special thanks to our sponsor, Aesculap®, for supporting this podcast series! #BeyondClean #Aesculap #SterileProcessing #WhatTheSpeck #BlackSpecks #SurgicalTrays #Podcast
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On Pathogens & PPE: Getting Sterile Storage Right
04/07/2026
On Pathogens & PPE: Getting Sterile Storage Right
Peel pouches hanging from clips, dust collecting in bins, trays stacked just a little too high… sound familiar? When it comes to sterile storage, small shortcuts can lead to big risks. On this episode of “On Pathogens & PPE,” host Jill Holdsworth and co-host Mark Copeland sit down with Tiffany Reece, Malinda Elammari, and Kendall Ashe to dive into the storage challenges showing up in sterile storage areas right now. From creative (but risky) space solutions to confusion around probe storage and vendor access, this group shares where things are breaking down and where teams can make quick changes. Tune in now and take a fresh look at your storage practices, because if it’s not stored right, it’s not ready for the patient. Over the next 12 weeks, Jill and special guests from across the industry will team up to share actionable strategies for fighting pathogens while building stronger partnerships between Sterile Processing and Infection Prevention teams. Whether you're in SPD, IP, or both—this series is designed to empower you and your team with the knowledge and tools that make a real difference! New episodes of On Pathogens & PPE will release each Tuesday on all Beyond Clean & Transmission Control channels. A special thanks to our Year 2 sponsor, Healthmark, A Getinge Company, for making this series possible. #BeyondClean #TransmissionControl #Healthmark #Getinge #OnPathogensAndPPE #SterileProcessing #InfectionPrevention #Podcast *Disclaimer: The views provided by hosts and guests on this series do not represent any employer, company, or third party, and are solely that of the individuals themselves.
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