Built Under Pressure: Veteran Bomb Tech to Operating Room: Dr. Zack Meade on Pressure, Preparation, and Anesthesia

Send us Fan MailDr. Zach -- EOD/ BOMB Squad l Air Force l Anesthesiology l Foster Care l Viruses/ Vaccines l Rescue DogInstagram: @brandonrushh | @buckleuppodcast IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3614628 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/buckle-up-podcast-universe-with-brandon-rush-mama-rush/id1807999562 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/08EDn7c64jyM93xzXHixsgWe absolutely loved having Buckle Up Podcast Universe with Brandon Rush and Mama Rush. Dr. Zack Meade, brought so much to the conversation — his story alone was absolutely incredible. From his time as a bomb technician to his transition into medicine, and growing up in foster care, he shared how he learned to prevail, how to compartmentalize under pressure, and how discipline and hard work ultimately paid off.Dr. Zack Meade is an anesthesiology resident and medical educator known for breaking down medicine, healthcare myths, and hospital culture with humor and evidence-based insight. Raised in relative poverty, in and out of foster care and facing long odds early in life, he built an unconventional path through military service—including work as a bomb squad technician, and electrical engineer—before entering medicine. He now blends real-world, high-stakes experience with clinical practice and research to translate complex medical topics into clear, engaging conversations. His work combines sharp satire with serious education, aiming to improve medical literacy, professional communication, and patient care.Beyond his journey, Dr. Zack offered genuinely valuable advice for patients — from what to expect before surgery, how to prepare mentally and physically, and what to know going into anesthesia, to important considerations during recovery. He broke down complex medical topics in a way that was clear, approachable, and empowering, helping demystify anesthesia and surgical care for everyday people.He was incredibly knowledgeable, generous with his insight, and an absolute joy to have on the show — informative, grounded, and genuinely funny. This was one of those conversations that leaves you smarter, more prepared, and inspired all at once.Support the show“We didn’t know it all— we learned with love, led with kindness, and earned our way to the top.”