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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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: SPD Recruiting & Retention in a Major Metroplex
06/28/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: SPD Recruiting & Retention in a Major Metroplex
Everything’s bigger in Texas—including the opportunities in Sterile Processing recruiting! In this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass sit down with Shevelle Speed to talk career ladders, leadership, and what it takes to build (and keep!) a strong team in one of the country’s largest healthcare hubs. From an unforgettable personal journey to system-wide recruiting strategies that actually work, Shevelle shares what’s possible when leaders lead with heart and vision. If you’re looking for tips on growing a strong, high-performing SPD team, this conversation brings the Texas-sized insight every leader needs. A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #STERIS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Season 18 Rewind - Instrumental Culture: What it Takes to Hold the Line in SPD
06/23/2025
Season 18 Rewind - Instrumental Culture: What it Takes to Hold the Line in SPD
Season 29 of Beyond Clean will launch on July 7th, 2025. In the meantime, please enjoy a few of our favorite episodes from Season 18! Do broken cultures inevitably lead to broken instruments? Does lack of trust between the Sterile Processing & Operating Room teams lead to lack of timely turnovers? On this Season 18 "Investing in Instrument Safety," which is focused on getting our teams the time, money, and support we need to protect our surgical inventory, we sit down with Jason Pacino Operations Manager Sterile Processing at Highland Hospital, to discuss his experiences overcoming the systemic challenges of "us vs them" between SPD & OR to build a quality program that serves both teams, and ultimately the patient, well. Tune in to hear the role frontline technicians play in this culture shift, how leaders can hardwire respect & collaboration across multiple departments, and what the tangible results of this commitment are in light of surgical instrument quality coming out of Sterile Processing. Drop your weapons for a moment and join us for a conversation on peace-making in the name of patient safety. We know you'll enjoy! Season 18 episodes are individually approved for 1 CE, so once you finish this interview, you can download your CE certificate immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. For access to this CE quiz and over 300 other free CE credits, visit our CE Credit Hub: http://www.beyondclean.net/ce-credit-hub
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Autoclaves Aweigh, My Boys! SPD & the Navy
06/21/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Autoclaves Aweigh, My Boys! SPD & the Navy
Anchors aweigh, #CleanFreaks—it’s time to set sail on a one-of-a-kind SPD journey! On this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass sit down with Nathaniel Gonzalez to dive into the fast-paced, high-stakes world of Sterile Processing in the U.S. Navy. From Navy boot camp to leading surgical support on land and at sea, Nathaniel shares what it's really like to serve—and sterilize—under pressure. Whether you're a proud veteran, a curious civilian, or just love a good Texas-sized story, this episode salutes the grit, grind, and growth of military-trained SPD professionals. Don’t miss the boat on this one, y’all! A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #STERIS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Season 18 Rewind - Creating a Surgical Safe Space: Tray Setups & Instrument Protection
06/16/2025
Season 18 Rewind - Creating a Surgical Safe Space: Tray Setups & Instrument Protection
Season 29 of Beyond Clean will launch on July 7th, 2025. In the meantime, please enjoy a few of our favorite episodes from Season 18! Is there such a thing as the perfectly set up tray? One that protects your instruments, makes the OR jump for joy, and above all, keeps the patients we care for as safe as possible? This week on Season 18 “Investing in Instrument Safety” which is focused on getting our team the time, money, and support we need to protect our surgical inventory we meet with Nicholas Day, Manager of Central Sterile Processing at University Hospitals to discuss how instrument tray set up can be a key factor in your team’s success. In this episode, Nicholas outlines what true collaboration with the operating room looks like and shares his process for achieving count sheet excellence. If tray standardization, set consistency, and instrument damage are part of your department’s focus this year, this is the episode for you! Join us as we discuss the tools, techniques, and tracking system hacks that will give your instruments, and patients, that next level of protection. Season 18 episodes are individually approved for 1 CE, so once you finish this interview, you can download your CE certificate immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. For access to this CE quiz and over 300 other free CE credits, visit our CE Credit Hub: http://www.beyondclean.net/ce-credit-hub
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StreetClothes: The Motorcyclist
06/15/2025
StreetClothes: The Motorcyclist
On this episode of our StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional whose passion for two wheels brings freedom, focus, and a whole lot of fuel to life outside the hospital. From the thrill of the throttle to the quietness of the long ride, this rider has discovered that nothing clears the mind quite like a full tank and the open road. Tune in to hear how Jennifer Barnickel unplugs and reconnects one curve, one gear, and one mile at a time… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world! #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: The Makings of a Sterile Processing Consultant
06/14/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: The Makings of a Sterile Processing Consultant
From East Texas roots to healthcare systems nationwide, Juan Ramos is proving just how far a career in SPD can take you. In this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass sit down with Juan to trace his journey from CSR tech to Mercy Ships volunteer to seasoned SPD consultant. With equal parts heart and hustle, Juan breaks down the real story behind consulting: what it is, what it’s not, and how it can drive sustainable change in your department. Whether you’re exploring the path to consulting or just curious what it’s all about, this episode is packed with wisdom, real-world experience, and that signature Texas know-how! A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS IMS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #STERISIMS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Season 18 Rewind - From Prep & Pack to Hospital President: When One of Us Makes it to the C-Suite
06/09/2025
Season 18 Rewind - From Prep & Pack to Hospital President: When One of Us Makes it to the C-Suite
Season 29 of Beyond Clean will launch on July 7th, 2025. In the meantime, please enjoy a few of our favorite episodes from Season 18! You know that technician right beside you in decontamination today? Yeah, that one breaking a sweat as they keep up with the 20 add-on cases that just rolled in. Well, they may just end up running the entire hospital one day. True story. On this episode of Season 18 "Investing in Instrument Safety," which is focused on getting our teams the time, money, and support we need to protect our surgical inventory, we sit down with Benjamin Brodersen, former Sterile Processing technician now President of Novant Health Ballantyne Medical Center, to discuss his experiences working his way from a frontline reprocessing technician, manager, performance improvement, administrator, and finally hospital president in North Carolina. Tune in to hear his story of growth sparked by his early time in Sterile Processing, and how the mission-mindedness he developed there has carried him all the way to the C-Suite. Whatever you thought you knew about career progression, mentorship, and your hospital administrators, this interview might have a thing or two that surprised you! We hope you are inspired to dream big and do big things after listening in! Season 18 episodes are individually approved for 1 CE, so once you finish this interview, you can download your CE certificate immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. For access to this CE quiz and over 300 other free CE credits, visit our CE Credit Hub: #SterileProcessing #BeyondClean #WeFightDirty #Season18
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Advocating (Well) for Your Department
06/07/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Advocating (Well) for Your Department
If you’re not advocating for your department, who will? It’s time to speak up—Texas style! On this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, Hank Balch flips the mic to talk with host Dusty Glass about the real-world challenges of advocating for your department—especially when upper leadership thinks everything is just fine. From sharpening your communication skills to knowing when (and how) to make your case, Dusty lays out a roadmap for speaking up with purpose and confidence. Whether you’re pushing for more resources, proposing a process change, or standing up for your team, this conversation brings real insights and that signature Texas grit. So, saddle up, y’all 🤠—this one’s worth the ride! A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS IMS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #STERISIMS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Planet Decontam: One Tech to Rule Them All? Tribal Knowledge & the Decon Risk
06/02/2025
Planet Decontam: One Tech to Rule Them All? Tribal Knowledge & the Decon Risk
What happens when only one person in your department knows how to reprocess a certain tray? Or find the IFU for that rarely used scope? Or figure out why the cart washer stopped working—again? On this season finale episode of Beyond Clean’s Planet Decontam, Angela Russell joins us to tackle the real dangers of tribal knowledge in decontam. From unwritten workflows and on-the-fly training to the daily pressure of being the only one who “knows how to do that,” Angela shares strategies for building a culture of clarity, confidence, and consistency across the whole team. If your department’s most common answer is, “Go ask Tracy—she’ll know what to do,” this is one conversation you don’t want to miss! Season 28 of Beyond Clean releases under the 1 Episode = 1 CE delivery model. After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #WeFightDirty #Podcast #Season28 #TribalKnowledge
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StreetClothes: The Bakers
06/01/2025
StreetClothes: The Bakers
On this episode of our StreetClothes podcast series, we talk to two healthcare professionals who find comfort, creativity, and a little pinch of calm in the art of baking. Whether it’s homemade bagels, a failed bundt cake, or family traditions passed down through generations, these self-taught bakers have each discovered their own flavor of joy in the kitchen. Tune in to hear how Vanessa Frank & Chelsea Wolner are keeping things sweet outside their 9-to-5s—one pie, muffin, and cookie at a time… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world! #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Leading with Purpose: Building Strong Teams, Texas Style
05/31/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Leading with Purpose: Building Strong Teams, Texas Style
SPD leaders don’t just manage—they mentor, motivate, and make big things happen. And in Texas, that’s how it’s done! This week, host Dusty Glass sits down with Felicia Sheriff for a heart-filled conversation about what it really means to lead with purpose in Sterile Processing. From creating a culture of trust to redefining employee onboarding and training, Felicia shares her tried-and-true strategies for building strong, resilient teams from the ground up. Whether you’re wrangling outdated training programs or leading the next generation of #CleanFreaks, this episode delivers real talk, real experience, and real strategies—Texas style. Y’all don’t want to miss this one! A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS IMS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #STERISIMS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Planet Decontam: Suit Up: PPE Essentials for Decontamination
05/26/2025
Planet Decontam: Suit Up: PPE Essentials for Decontamination
Time to suit up, #CleanFreaks—because this week we’re tackling the real-world challenges of PPE! Join us as we sit down with Marcus Super from Mastel Surgical to explore what makes personal protective equipment truly essential in decontam. From one-size-fits-none challenges to breakthrough PPE innovations, Marcus explains why the right PPE is about more than just checking boxes—it's about keeping our frontline techs safe and comfortable while #FightingDirty. Together, we’re diving into budget battles, supply shortages, and that universal struggle of finding PPE that actually fits the technicians wearing it. If your PPE looks like two gowns layered together, sleeves taped to your arms, and a face shield too fogged up to see the instruments—this episode is for you! Season 28 of Beyond Clean releases under the 1 Episode = 1 CE delivery model. After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #WeFightDirty #Podcast #Season28 #PPE #DecontamSafety
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Powered Up: The Hidden Costs of Equipment Failure
05/24/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Powered Up: The Hidden Costs of Equipment Failure
Saddle up, #TexasCleanFreaks–because this week we’re tackling one of the sneakiest budget-busters in SPD—power equipment failures! Join Dusty Glass as he sits down with Elvis Lormeus, Corporate Product Manager at STERIS, to dive into the hidden dangers behind equipment breakdowns in Sterile Processing. You’ll discover how small missed steps in reprocessing can lead to major power equipment failures—and how preventive maintenance, IFU knowledge, and smart vendor support can help your team stay a step ahead. This episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas is packed with insights and strategies to keep your power equipment running strong when it matters most, so tune in today! A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS IMS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #STERISIMS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Process Better: Instrument Insights: End-to-End SPD Expertise
05/20/2025
Process Better: Instrument Insights: End-to-End SPD Expertise
From missing instruments to delayed trays, delivering safe, on-time instrumentation is no easy feat. In this exciting series finale episode from our “Process Better” series, Mike Andresen, Director of Business Development at Medline, takes us inside the full scope of end-to-end instrument support—and the strategies that make it all work. From vendor partnerships to internal process improvement, Mike shares how collaboration across SPD and OR teams is driving smarter, more consistent results. If you're aiming to raise the standard for instrument quality in your SPD, Mike’s insights deliver the clarity and insight to help you lead with confidence! This dynamic 5-part series takes you inside the core workflows of Sterile Processing—from point-of-use cleaning to instrument management and everything in between. With each episode, you’ll hear real-world strategies to help your team improve consistency, boost collaboration, and elevate instrument quality from start to finish. Whether you're assembling trays, managing inventory, or training the next generation, this series is packed with insights to help your team process better every instrument, every time. A special thanks to our sponsor, Medline Industries, LP, for making this series possible! #BeyondClean #Medline #ProcessBetter #InstrumentReprocessing #SterileProcessing #VendorPartnerships #ProcessImprovement #Collaboration
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Blood In the Water: An IP Perspective on Pathogen Exposures
05/19/2025
Blood In the Water: An IP Perspective on Pathogen Exposures
A tiny needle. A missed burr. A hidden blade at the bottom of the sink. These aren't just near misses—they're real exposure risks facing techs in decontam every day. So, how prepared is your team to respond? This week, we're joined by Garrett Hollembeak, infection preventionist and Editor-in-Chief of Transmission Control, to explore pathogen exposure through the eyes of an IP. From bloodborne pathogen kits and near-miss reporting to PPE breakdowns and employee health follow-up, Garrett shares a frontline perspective on what happens when worst-case scenarios become real. Whether you're developing safety protocols or wondering about the true risks of serious bloodborne exposures, this is one conversation that could save more than just paperwork—it could save a life. Season 28 of Beyond Clean releases under the 1 Episode = 1 CE delivery model. After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #WeFightDirty #Podcast #Season28 #InfectionPrevention #WorkplaceSafety
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StreetClothes: The Beekeeper
05/18/2025
StreetClothes: The Beekeeper
On this episode of the StreetClothes podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional whose passion project is generating some serious buzz in his own backyard! With 31 hives and counting, this busy bee has discovered the joy—minus the occasional sting—and the liquid gold rewards of working with nature’s busiest pollinators. Tune in to hear how Cody Troutt's adventures in beekeeping bring the sweetest kind of work-life balance to life beyond the hospital… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world! #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Sticky Situations: How Biofilm Threatens Sterile Processing
05/17/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: Sticky Situations: How Biofilm Threatens Sterile Processing
On this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, we’re wrangling one of the toughest, sneakiest outlaws in SPD — the one and only biofilm! Join host Dusty Glass as he sits down with STERIS’s Amy Williams to break down how this invisible threat forms, spreads, and sticks around longer than it should. From point-of-use cleaning to the risks of dried-on bioburden, Amy shares practical insights, tough truths, and the strategies every frontline team needs to know to stop biofilm in its tracks. If you’ve ever wondered how biofilm forms—or how to stop the spread—this episode is packed with the tools you need to #FightDirty! A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS IMS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #STERISIMS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Process Better: Inventory Intelligence: From Excellence Picks to Expired Supplies
05/13/2025
Process Better: Inventory Intelligence: From Excellence Picks to Expired Supplies
From the shelf to the sterile field, smart inventory makes all the difference! In this week’s new episode from our “Process Better” series, Tracy Smith, National Market Sales Director at Medline, takes us inside the everyday realities of supply management across SPD and the OR. From improving pick accuracy to staying ahead of expirations, Tracy shares practical strategies to help teams bring structure and consistency to their inventory process. Whether you're trying to stay ahead of expiration dates or chasing down missing items, this episode offers the insight and tools you need to take control of your supply game—one pick at a time. Tune in today! This dynamic 5-part series takes you inside the core workflows of Sterile Processing—from point-of-use cleaning to instrument management and everything in between. With each episode, you’ll hear real-world strategies to help your team improve consistency, boost collaboration, and elevate instrument quality from start to finish. Whether you're assembling trays, managing inventory, or training the next generation, this series is packed with insights to help your team process better every instrument, every time. A special thanks to our sponsor, Medline Industries, LP, for making this series possible! #BeyondClean #Medline #ProcessBetter #InstrumentReprocessing #SterileProcessing #SmartInventory #HealthcareSupplyChain #ExpirationDates
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Piece Out? Undone? The Great Decon Disassembly Debate
05/12/2025
Piece Out? Undone? The Great Decon Disassembly Debate
Three turns of a screw could be the difference between a clean instrument and a dangerous infection risk—yet how do we know which instruments actually need to come apart in decontam? On this episode of Beyond Clean's Planet Decontam, we welcome the new President of HSPA, Arlene Bush, to weigh in on the critical debate around instrument disassembly during manual and automated cleaning. From navigating complex IFUs to training strategies that empower frontline #CleanFreaks, Arlene tackles the real challenges of knowing what must come apart—and how to put it all back together again. Whether you're looking to build confidence in new technicians or streamline your processes, this is one episode you don’t want to miss! Season 28 of Beyond Clean releases under the 1 Episode = 1 CE delivery model. After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #WeFightDirty #Podcast #Season28 #Instruments #Disassembly #IFU
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: East, West, Big, Small: Insights from the Cowboy of Clean
05/10/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: East, West, Big, Small: Insights from the Cowboy of Clean
From east to west and everywhere in between, no one’s seen it all quite like Ron Hunsucker. In this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, we sit down with the legendary “Cowboy of Clean” to talk shop on everything from certification journeys to culture shifts in Sterile Processing. With four decades of boots-on-the-ground experience, Ron shares the wins, the lessons, and the leadership mindset that’s shaped his work across every corner of the Lone Star State. Whether you're learning the ropes or leading the way, this conversation is filled with hard-earned wisdom and that signature Texas grit. A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS IMS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #STERISIMS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Process Better: The Art and Science of Set Assembly: Audit with Purpose
05/06/2025
Process Better: The Art and Science of Set Assembly: Audit with Purpose
Set assembly might seem routine, but it’s one of the most critical opportunities to ensure instrument accuracy and performance. So, how do you create a process that supports accuracy without slowing down your team? In this episode of our “Process Better” series, Tory Teakell, Clinical Solutions Manager at Medline, walks us through the essential role of assembly and inspection—and how purposeful audits can turn good processes into great ones. From managing productivity pressures to improving technician training, Tory shares practical ways to support consistency at the prep table and beyond. If you're looking to fine-tune your set assembly process and empower your team to succeed, this episode is a must-listen! This dynamic 5-part series takes you inside the core workflows of Sterile Processing—from point-of-use cleaning to instrument management and everything in between. With each episode, you’ll hear real-world strategies to help your team improve consistency, boost collaboration, and elevate instrument quality from start to finish. Whether you're assembling trays, managing inventory, or training the next generation, this series is packed with insights to help your team process better every instrument, every time. A special thanks to our sponsor, Medline Industries, LP, for making this series possible! #BeyondClean #Medline #ProcessBetter #InstrumentReprocessing #SterileProcessing #SetAssembly #InstrumentPerformance #InstrumentInspection
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Decontamination Ground Game: Why Cleaning Your SPD Floors Matters
05/05/2025
Decontamination Ground Game: Why Cleaning Your SPD Floors Matters
Hey #CleanFreaks -- What if the dirtiest surface in your SPD’s decontam isn't at your workstation, but on the floor you're standing on? This week, we welcome infection prevention expert Ericka Kalp to expose the hidden dangers lurking on the surface of your SPD’s floors—and why ignoring them could be putting your patients and your team at risk. From selecting the right disinfectants to establishing clear cleaning accountability between departments, Ericka reveals how those microscopic microbes under your shoes are leaving behind a trail of contamination with every step you take. If you've ever walked into decon and asked, "Why is the floor so sticky?"—this is one conversation you don't want to miss! Season 28 of Beyond Clean releases under the 1 Episode = 1 CE delivery model. After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #WeFightDirty #Podcast #Season28 #Contamination #DecontamFloors
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StreetClothes: The Doula
05/04/2025
StreetClothes: The Doula
On this episode 4 of the StreetClothes podcast, we talk to Lindsay Brown, a Minnesota clinician who has a passion project unlike any other! Not only does she know where babies come from (every child's eternal question), she also knows how clinical expertise beautifully combines with nurturing care during life's very first moments. Tune in to hear how Linds's work as a doula brings comfort and advocacy to the birthing experience outside of her 9-5 healthcare role... If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world! #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: The Good Works of SPD: Upskilling into a Career with Impact
05/03/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: The Good Works of SPD: Upskilling into a Career with Impact
Across the great state of Texas and beyond, Sterile Processing pros are sharpening their skills, building confidence, and making a real impact where it matters most – patient safety. In this week’s episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass team up with Kurt Van Sickel, Program Director and Career Coach at Good Works Collective, to spotlight the power of professional development in SPD. From the classroom to #FightingDirty in decontam, Kurt shares how upskilling, soft-skill training, and real-world mentorship are opening career doors – and powering the next generation of #CleanFreaks. Ready to invest in your team – or yourself? This one’s for you! A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS IMS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! #BeyondClean #STERISIMS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Process Better: Navigating Instrument Damage: Care, Handling, & Quality
04/29/2025
Process Better: Navigating Instrument Damage: Care, Handling, & Quality
Instrument damage is more than just a headache—it’s costly, disruptive, and far more common than most realize. So, how can we prevent it before it even happens? In Episode 2 of our “Process Better” series, Tory Teakell, Clinical Solutions Manager at Medline, joins us to explore the most common causes of instrument damage across surgical workflows— and how better care, handling, and training can reduce damage and raise the bar for quality. From transport to assembly and back again, Tory walks us through practical steps to protect your SPD’s instruments and your bottom line. If broken tags are becoming a common sight in your department, this episode is for you! This dynamic 5-part series takes you inside the core workflows of Sterile Processing—from point-of-use cleaning to instrument management and everything in between. With each episode, you’ll hear real-world strategies to help your team improve consistency, boost collaboration, and elevate instrument quality from start to finish. Whether you're assembling trays, managing inventory, or training the next generation, this series is packed with insights to help your team process better every instrument, every time. A special thanks to our sponsor, Medline Industries, LP, for making this series possible! #BeyondClean #Medline #ProcessBetter #InstrumentReprocessing #SterileProcessing #InstrumentDamage #CareAndHandling
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Are You Sinking Your Own Decon Ship? The Icebergs of Sink Workflows
04/28/2025
Are You Sinking Your Own Decon Ship? The Icebergs of Sink Workflows
Three bays, two basins, or one compliance nightmare? When it comes to your decontam sinks, the wrong setup doesn't just slow you down – it can send your entire workflow underwater! On this episode of Beyond Clean's Planet Decontam, Jessie Lopez joins us to break down why the proper sink setup can make or break your entire reprocessing cycle. From missing rinses and awkward sink setups to chemical confusion and ergonomic nightmares, we're uncovering how these small missteps at the sink can compromise your workflows and create real compliance challenges for your SPD. If your decontam sinks are creating more obstacles than solutions, this is one conversation that might just keep your department from sailing into troubled waters! Season 28 of Beyond Clean releases under the 1 Episode = 1 CE delivery model. After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #WeFightDirty #Podcast #Season28 #DecontamSinks #Compliance #Workflows
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Everything is Cleaner in Texas: SPD in the Texas Medical Center
04/26/2025
Everything is Cleaner in Texas: SPD in the Texas Medical Center
Everything’s bigger in Texas—and that’s especially true in the Texas Medical Center, where the pace never slows and the pressure is always on! In this episode of Everything is Cleaner in Texas, hosts Hank Balch and Dusty Glass sit down with Anna Castillo-Gutierrez for a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to work inside one of the most complex, high-volume medical centers in the country. From nonstop surgical schedules to navigating rapid turnarounds, Anna shares how her Sterile Processing team rises to the challenge every day—and why education, communication, and resilience are key in SPD. Tune in for a powerful glimpse into what it takes to keep #FightingDirty deep in the heart of Houston! A special thanks to our sponsor, STERIS IMS, for making this series possible! Their commitment to education and excellence in the Sterile Processing industry has been instrumental in bringing this series to life. Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you never miss a new episode! #BeyondClean #STERISIMS #EverythingIsCleanerInTexas #SterileProcessing
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Beyond Clean Canada: The Power of Industry Disruption
04/23/2025
Beyond Clean Canada: The Power of Industry Disruption
What started as a podcast quickly became a global platform for Sterile Processing education—and in our Season 1 finale, we’re sitting down with the man behind the mic, the #OriginalCleanFreak himself, Hank Balch. As the Co-Founder and President of Beyond Clean, Hank takes us behind the scenes of how one idea—offering free, accessible Sterile Processing educational content—has reshaped how frontline professionals learn, connect, and lead. From launching the first CE-approved podcast to building a 350+ FREE CE library, Hank shares how disruption, innovation, and community have fueled a movement that’s still gaining speed. Buckle up, #CanadianCleanFreaks—this finale brings the vision, the purpose, and the #FightingDirty energy that started it all! A special shout-out to Solventum for sponsoring Season 1 of the Beyond Clean Canada Podcast! Make sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook so you’re always in the loop for every episode! #BeyondCleanCanada #MDR #SterileProcessing #IndustryDisruption #BeyondClean #Education #Podcast #Solventum
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Process Better: Better Point-of-Use Cleaning: Together We Win
04/22/2025
Process Better: Better Point-of-Use Cleaning: Together We Win
Point-of-use cleaning is one of the most critical—and most often missed—steps in the reprocessing cycle. So, how do we build workflows that keep this step front and center? In this premiere episode of our exclusive new podcast series “Process Better,” Tory Teakell, Clinical Solutions Manager at Medline, helps us redefine what effective point-of-use cleaning really looks like. From aligning with current guidelines to closing the communication gap between SPD and the OR, Tory breaks down the real reasons this step gets overlooked— and outlines what it takes to build a process that actually works. If your team is struggling with compliance, consistency, or collaboration, this episode offers a fresh approach to getting it right from the start. Press play and join us today! This dynamic 5-part series takes you inside the core workflows of Sterile Processing—from point-of-use cleaning to instrument management and everything in between. With each episode, you’ll hear real-world strategies to help your team improve consistency, boost collaboration, and elevate instrument quality from start to finish. Whether you're assembling trays, managing inventory, or training the next generation, this series is packed with insights to help your team process better every instrument, every time. A special thanks to our sponsor, Medline Industries, LP, for making this series possible! #BeyondClean #Medline #ProcessBetter #InstrumentReprocessing #SterileProcessing #PointOfUse
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Planet Decontam: The IFU Memory Maze: Is Decontamination IFU Compliance Achievable?
04/21/2025
Planet Decontam: The IFU Memory Maze: Is Decontamination IFU Compliance Achievable?
Picture it: You’re standing in decontam, 10 case carts deep, trying to track down the right IFU—and the OR rushes in with a STAT turnaround tray. In this moment, memory, speed, and accuracy collide—and compliance is put to the test! On this week’s episode of Beyond Clean’s Planet Decontam, Art Babiy joins us to tackle the real-world challenges hidden inside instrument IFUs. From real-time access issues to the serious risks of non-compliance, we explore why true IFU compliance remains one of the toughest hurdles in Sterile Processing. If you’re tired of getting lost in a maze of IFUs, this is one conversation you don’t want to miss. Season 28 of Beyond Clean releases under the 1 Episode = 1 CE delivery model. After finishing this interview, earn your 1 CE credit immediately by passing the short quiz linked below each week. Visit our CE Credit Hub at to access this quiz and over 350 other free CE credits. #BeyondClean #SterileProcessing #WeFightDirty #Podcast #Season28 #IFU #Compliance
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