Podcast appearances and mentions of kelly grayson

When it comes to taking criticism, EMS professionals are … not great. In this episode of Inside EMS, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson get real about why criticism hits so hard and how we can start to deal with it like grownups (instead of defensive toddlers). They break down Chris's recent article, “10 practical tips for responding to criticism,” sharing personal stories of defensiveness, arrogance and the long road to emotional intelligence. From learning to separate emotion from feedback to asking for clarification and recognizing when there's truth in someone's harsh words, this episode is a masterclass in professional and personal growth. The duo also explores how criticism ties into self-awareness, communication with partners, and even romantic relationships. Whether you're a seasoned medic or a brand-new EMT, these tips will help you take feedback like a pro without letting it wreck your day. "We do not want our medicine criticized. We do not want our work ethics criticized. We just do not want criticism.” — Chris Cebollero "Experience comes from mistakes. Mistakes come from lack of experience." — Chris Cebollero  “Back in the day, I didn't care. I used to say the same thing. People either love me or hate me; there's no in the middle. But you know what? I wasn't looking at the bigger picture.” — Kelly Grayson Enjoying the show? Email the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dig deep into one of EMS's most overlooked (and often forgotten) topics — toxidromes. You might remember the word from paramedic class, but today's street calls demand more than a vague memory. With patients taking everything from grandma's Ativan to street-made speed, understanding toxidromes is crucial for making quick, accurate clinical calls. The crew breaks down the five major toxidromes every medic should know: anticholinergic, cholinergic, opioid, sympathomimetic and sedative-hypnotic. From classic mnemonics like “mad as a hatter” to real-life stories of fire ant poisonings, this episode serves up practical knowledge with EMS-grade humor. Chris and Kelly cover telltale signs (sweaty vs. dry skin, pinpoint vs. dilated pupils), treatment pearls of wisdom (easy on that naloxone, folks), and the real-world complications of polypharmacy. Plus, they touch on lesser-known players like serotonin syndrome and hallucinogens. This one's a refresher you didn't know you needed — but you'll be grateful when you respond to your next overdose call. Memorable quotes “Antidotes are overrated. Supportive care will take care of most of the toxidromes out there.” — Kelly Grayson “If they're pleasantly stuporous but breathing effectively, it's not an overdose. It's just a dose.” — Kelly Grayson “Narcan is not a punishment, it's a treatment. You don't slam it, you bump it just a little bit, just enough to get them breathing again.” — Kelly Grayson Enjoying the show? Email the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

This week on the Inside EMS podcast, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson tackle a metabolic monster that every EMS provider needs to master: diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). They kick off with a common (but critical) 911 scenario: a 19-year-old with a history of Type 1 diabetes, confusion, vomiting and a blood sugar of 500. Sound familiar? Kelly dives into the physiology of DKA, explaining how glucose can be sky-high while cells starve, triggering fat breakdown and ketone production that spirals into life-threatening acidosis. The hosts hit the must-know pathophysiology, signs and symptoms (hello, Kussmaul breathing!), and what providers often miss — like dehydration, vomiting and abdominal pain. They break down how to spot DKA with capnography and EKG changes, especially when hyperkalemia mimics a STEMI. From EMS management tips (don't shut down those fast respirations!) to fluid resuscitation caveats, this is a crash course in saving DKA patients before they crash. Whether you're running calls or managing chronic patients, this episode arms you with the clinical know-how and common-sense insight to handle DKA with confidence. Memorable quotes  “We're starting to see more increasing calls for type one diabetes, insulin-dependent type two diabetes ... and we need to be able to understand what we're doing. — Chris Cebollero “One of the big clues in the scenario is the vomiting. Lots of DKA patients will have vomiting and abdominal pain.” — Kelly Grayson “A lot of times, these hyperkalemia patients and these acidotic patients are going to be handled just fine by correcting their fluid deficits and correcting their glucose with an insulin drip. Just getting their glucose back down to normal level is going to manage the lion's share of the hyperkalemia.” — Kelly Grayson Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to suggest episode ideas or to pitch someone as a guest!

What does accountability actually look like in EMS? In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson get into the gritty details — beyond the management-speak — and outline the 7 pillars of accountability that can make or break an EMS organization. From character and unity, to urgency and evolution, they explore how each pillar builds a culture that supports excellence, trust and growth in the field. The discussion gets into metrics that actually matter (and no, “we're doing fine” isn't a metric), urgency that respects both speed and precision, and how to develop a reputation that earns trust from coworkers and ED staff alike. Whether you're in a leadership role or still riding the bench seat, this episode is a masterclass in personal and organizational accountability. Memorable quotes “Integrity is how you behave when no one's looking.” — Kelly Grayson “You don't let anybody dictate your own professionalism.” — Chris Cebollero “If you can't measure it, you can't improve it.” — Kelly Grayson “Do you want speed or accuracy? I want both.” — Chris Cebollero “If you're practicing EMS like you did 5 years ago, you're behind the times.” — Kelly Grayson Enjoying the show? Email us at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas or suggest a guest!

Guest host Rob Lawrence joins Kelly Grayson to reflect on the recent EMS on the Hill Day. Rob offers a behind-the-scenes look at his experience leading the California delegation and provides insights into how EMS professionals can influence policy on issues like Medicare reimbursement, community paramedicine and workforce development. Kelly questions whether EMS on the Hill Day efforts actually drive change, while Rob defends the impact of consistent grassroots advocacy. The episode highlights key legislation, including expanded telemedicine and veteran recruitment into EMS, and makes the case for staying politically engaged to secure the future of the profession. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting to engage in the political side of EMS, this episode will leave you with a deeper understanding of the stakes — and the power of your voice. Key quotes "Our national associations are now hunting as a pack, which is a good thing." — Rob Lawrence "You can be at the mercy of EMS politics, or you can learn to play EMS politics and affect the outcome." — Kelly Grayson "All politics is local, and we all have a voice. More importantly, we all have a story." — Rob Lawrence "Politics is made of people who show up." — Kelly Grayson Timeline 01:02 – Rob discusses his recent travels and involvement in EMS on the Hill 01:45 – Rob explains what EMS on the Hill is and how it works 03:11 – Rob shares his thoughts on the bipartisan support for EMS legislation 06:05 – Kelly asks about the amount of time spent with legislators 09:02 – Rob highlights his meeting with Representative Eric Swalwell 10:28 – Kelly expresses skepticism about EMS Week and EMS on the Hill 12:10 – Rob responds to Kelly's skepticism about EMS advocacy 14:00 – Rob discusses key bills on Medicare reimbursement and community paramedicine 16:06 – Rob shares details about the bills being presented this year 20:01 – Rob talks about workforce development and veteran recruitment initiatives 22:01 – Rob and Kelly discuss EMS advocacy and the importance of grassroots involvement 25:36 – Rob explains the EMS caucus and invites listeners to get involved 28:20 – Rob concludes the podcast, urging listeners to advocate for EMS and engage in political processes Enjoying the show? Email the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

Union Federation EP.216: The Orville: Crew Profile - Cmdr. Kelly Grayson / Adrianne Palicki Watch: Fandom Podcast Network YouTube Channel Link: https://www.youtube.com/@FandomPodcastNetwork Listen: Union Federation Audio Podcast Link: https://fpnet.podbean.com/category/union-federation Welcome to the Union Federation Podcast on the Fandom Podcast Network & BQN Network, where we discuss both Star Trek and The Orville. Your Union Federation crew return to The Orville! On this limited 10 part series, we celebrate the Orville cast and the characters they play, including the notable recurring guest stars, special guest stars & Star Trek Alumni! On this  episode we discuss: The Orville: Crew Profile - Cmdr. Kelly Grayson / Adrianne Palicki.   Until next time on the Union Federation Podcast, "Live Long & Prosper" & "We Are, Without A Doubt, The Weirdest Ship In The Fleet!"   Union Federation Podcast Contact Info. Hailing frequencies are now open........   Fandom Podcast Network YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@FandomPodcastNetwork   Union Federation: A Star Trek and The Orville Podcast Feed: Link: https://fpnet.podbean.com/category/union-federation   Facebook: The Union Federation: A Star Trek and Orville Podcast Group. Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/323504344789120   - Fandom Podcast Network Master Audio Feed: https://fpnet.podbean.com/ - Fandom Podcast Network is on ALL major podcasts platforms. - Email: theunionfederation@gmail.com - Instagram: @UnionFederationPodcast / https://www.instagram.com/unionfederationpodcast/ - X (Twitter) : @unionfedpodcast / https://x.com/UnionFedPodcast - Bluesky: @fanpodnetwork / https://bsky.app/profile/fanpodnetwork.bsky.social Host & Guest Contact Info: - Kyle Wagner on X: @AKyleW / Instagram & Threads: @Akylefandom / @akyleW on Discord / @Ksport16: Letterboxd / Blue Sky: @akylew - Amy Nelson on X: @MissAmyNelson / Instagram: @amynelson522 / Bluesky: @bqnpodcasts & @CounselorAmy - Hayley Stoddart on Instagram & Bluesky: @trekkie01D - Kevin Reitzel on X / Instagram / Threads / Discord & Letterboxd: @spartan_phoenix / Bluesky: @spartanphoenix Guest: Alyssa Kortright on Instagram: @spacegirlcosplay   Where to Find BQN: Instagram: @BQNpodcasts Bluesky: @bqnpodcasts Facebook: The BQN Collective (listener's group) Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bqnpodcast   #FandomPodcastNetwork #FPNet #FPN #UnionFederation #UnionFederationPodcast #BQN #StarTrek #TheOrville #SethMacFarlane #EdMercer #AdriannePalicki #KellyGrayson #PennyJohnsonJerald #ClaireFinn #HalstonSage #AlaraKitan #ScottGrimes #GordonMalloy #PeterMacon #Bortus #JLee #JohnLaMarr #MarkJackson #IsaacTheOrville #JessicaSzohr #TallaKeyali  #AmyNelson #HayleyStoddart #KyleWagner #KevinReitzel

In this episode of the Inside EMS Podcast, co-host Kelly Grayson is joined by international guest host Rob Lawrence for a candid and timely conversation on one of the most pressing issues in EMS today: fatigue and its impact on provider safety and wellness. The discussion begins with a heartbreaking story out of Georgia, where a nurse, after working consecutive night shifts, fell asleep at the wheel, leading to a fatal crash. It's a tragic reminder of the very real risks that come with long hours, disrupted sleep and chronic fatigue in healthcare—and EMS is no exception. Kelly and Rob reflect on their own experiences with sleep deprivation, shift work and the toll it takes on performance, decision-making and personal safety. They dive into the need for fatigue management policies, smarter shift scheduling, and how EMS leaders can — and must — prioritize provider health. Timeline 00:00 - 00:05: Rob introduces himself as the international correspondent for Inside EMS, stepping in for Chris Cebollero. 00:05 - 00:33: Kelly and Rob discuss the swap between Chris and Rob, along with their roles in the EMS community, providing context for the conversation. 00:33 - 03:10: Rob and Kelly discuss the tragic accident in Forsyth County, Georgia, where a nurse fell asleep behind the wheel after a night shift. They reflect on the broader issue of fatigue in healthcare professions. 03:10 - 07:01: Kelly shares his personal experience with fatigue, recounting instances of feeling like a "zombie" after long shifts and the dangers of working extended hours. 07:01 - 10:35: Rob and Kelly dive into the challenges of managing fatigue in EMS, the ongoing debate about shift lengths, and the need for policies to improve rest and working conditions. 10:35 - 12:23: The hosts discuss the importance of leadership in managing fatigue, with Rob emphasizing the need for downtime between shifts. 12:23 - 15:02: Kelly talks about his previous employer's fatigue mitigation policies and how they ensured safety through workload monitoring, proper shift lengths, and adequate pay. 15:02 - 18:00: Rob reflects on his work in California, including meetings with lawmakers to address EMS workforce issues during EMS Week. 18:00 - 23:07: The hosts discuss the systemic issues that contribute to fatigue, including poor wages, long shifts, and the overall working conditions in EMS. They conclude with a call to action for better policies and leadership to ensure the well-being of EMS professionals. Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

Note: Thanks for following the Inside EMS podcast! Enjoy this special EMS One-Stop crossover episode with host Rob Lawrence, who will also join Kelly Grayson as a guest cohost during the month of April.   In this episode of the EMS One-Stop podcast, Dr. Dave Williams discusses an exciting new master's-level course designed for EMS and fire leaders, focused on advanced improvement science. Along with Mike Taigman, Dr. Williams is leading this program, which aims to equip leaders with the tools and methods necessary to achieve results-driven improvement in their EMS systems. Over the course of 12 months, attendees will work on real-world projects, gaining the skills needed to make data-driven decisions and improve patient care outcomes within their organizations. Dr. Williams also dives into the core concepts of improvement science, including understanding of variation and the importance of creating organizational systems that support sustainable improvements. He shares insights into the curriculum, the significance of benchmarking and how the course will help EMS leaders tackle systemic challenges by applying proven improvement methodologies. This conversation also touches on the future of EMS leadership and how innovation in data management, process design and leadership will shape the profession moving forward. Timeline 02:22 – Dr. Williams explains the background of the course, highlighting how it builds on improvement science to drive better results in EMS systems. He and Mike Taigman aim to teach EMS leaders to use data and evidence to improve patient care outcomes. 06:16 – Quality improvement: Dr. Williams discusses the gap in EMS leadership regarding quality improvement, emphasizing that quality needs to be integrated into the leadership team's responsibilities, not treated as a separate function. 11:01 – Why data matters: The conversation shifts to the importance of data in EMS improvement efforts. Dr. Williams highlights how collecting and analyzing data helps organizations understand system performance and drive change. 15:43 – The fleet management example: Rob shares a fleet management story where data was used to improve vehicle downtime, highlighting the real-world impact of using improvement science to solve practical challenges. 19:29 – Project-based learning in the course: Dr. Williams elaborates on the project-based nature of the course, explaining how each participant will bring a real-world project that directly impacts their organization and use improvement science to solve it. 23:09 – Practical applications: Dr. Williams talks about how the course will blend online learning with in-person workshops, providing practical tools and methods that participants can apply to their projects throughout the year. 31:08 – Course logistics: Dr. Williams discusses course deadlines and important dates, including the application deadline of April 18, 2025; and the course's first workshop in September 2025. 54:05 – ROI and the course's value: Dr. Williams emphasizes the return on investment for attending the course, explaining that solving organizational problems through improvement science will ultimately save money and improve results for EMS services. 1:00 – Final thoughts: Rob and Dr. Williams close the conversation by reiterating the uniqueness of the course and its potential to reshape EMS leadership through the application of improvement science. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Next-level improvement science: New master-level course equips EMS and fire leaders with advanced improvement science skills Course application deadline: April 18, 2025 Course start date: July 22, 2025 Workshop dates: September 2025; February 2026 Mastering data and EMS performance metrics with Mike Taigman: Exploring how data informs change, improves clinical outcomes and drives leadership decisions Improve EMS quality with a model that works: The simple yet powerful Model for Improvement holds the key to making real changes to an EMS organization

NOTE: Be sure to check out the Inside EMS podcast this month where Rob Lawrence will be joining Kelly Grayson as a guest cohost for Chris Cebollero.  In this episode of the EMS One-Stop podcast, Dr. Dave Williams discusses an exciting new master's-level course designed for EMS and fire leaders, focused on advanced improvement science. Along with Mike Taigman, Dr. Williams is leading this program, which aims to equip leaders with the tools and methods necessary to achieve results-driven improvement in their EMS systems. Over the course of 12 months, attendees will work on real-world projects, gaining the skills needed to make data-driven decisions and improve patient care outcomes within their organizations. Dr. Williams also dives into the core concepts of improvement science, including understanding of variation and the importance of creating organizational systems that support sustainable improvements. He shares insights into the curriculum, the significance of benchmarking and how the course will help EMS leaders tackle systemic challenges by applying proven improvement methodologies. This conversation also touches on the future of EMS leadership and how innovation in data management, process design and leadership will shape the profession moving forward. Timeline 02:22 – Dr. Williams explains the background of the course, highlighting how it builds on improvement science to drive better results in EMS systems. He and Mike Taigman aim to teach EMS leaders to use data and evidence to improve patient care outcomes. 06:16 – Quality improvement: Dr. Williams discusses the gap in EMS leadership regarding quality improvement, emphasizing that quality needs to be integrated into the leadership team's responsibilities, not treated as a separate function. 11:01 – Why data matters: The conversation shifts to the importance of data in EMS improvement efforts. Dr. Williams highlights how collecting and analyzing data helps organizations understand system performance and drive change. 15:43 – The fleet management example: Rob shares a fleet management story where data was used to improve vehicle downtime, highlighting the real-world impact of using improvement science to solve practical challenges. 19:29 – Project-based learning in the course: Dr. Williams elaborates on the project-based nature of the course, explaining how each participant will bring a real-world project that directly impacts their organization and use improvement science to solve it. 23:09 – Practical applications: Dr. Williams talks about how the course will blend online learning with in-person workshops, providing practical tools and methods that participants can apply to their projects throughout the year. 31:08 – Course logistics: Dr. Williams discusses course deadlines and important dates, including the application deadline of April 18, 2025; and the course's first workshop in September 2025. 54:05 – ROI and the course's value: Dr. Williams emphasizes the return on investment for attending the course, explaining that solving organizational problems through improvement science will ultimately save money and improve results for EMS services. 1:00 – Final thoughts: Rob and Dr. Williams close the conversation by reiterating the uniqueness of the course and its potential to reshape EMS leadership through the application of improvement science. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Next-level improvement science: New master-level course equips EMS and fire leaders with advanced improvement science skills Course application deadline: April 18, 2025 Course start date: July 22, 2025 Workshop dates: September 2025; February 2026 Mastering data and EMS performance metrics with Mike Taigman: Exploring how data informs change, improves clinical outcomes and drives leadership decisions Improve EMS quality with a model that works: The simple yet powerful Model for Improvement holds the key to making real changes to an EMS organization

In honor of First Responder Wellness Week, Inside EMS hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson go beyond the surface-level tips and dig into what true wellness looks like in this profession. Spoiler: it's messy, personal and sometimes terrifying. Kelly shares his deeply personal journey from a spinal surgery and a near-fatal pulmonary embolism to dropping over 140 pounds and reclaiming his life. At his heaviest, he was 410 pounds. Today? He's neck-and-neck with Chris on the scale, rocking a 40-inch waist after shedding a whole foot from his midsection. But this episode isn't about bragging — it's about honesty. Kelly gets vulnerable about depression, self-doubt and EMS culture's toxic relationship with self-care. He also drops hard-earned advice on meal prepping, smarter snacking and how to make real progress without crash diets or guilt trips. If you've ever looked in the mirror and not liked what you saw — or felt the creeping realization that this job might just break you — this one's for you. Kelly's story isn't just about weight loss; it's about survival, resilience and building a new life, one lap at a time. Memorable quotes "EMS is not an active profession. It's 23 hours of boredom and an hour of blind panic." "It's not simply a matter of willpower, but support, attainable goals, and short increments add up over the years." "You have to get serious about what you want to feel like, what you want to look like." "I said, 'What are you doing this for? Are you doing this to die, knowing what killed you?'" Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

In EMS, where the stress is high and space is tight, conflict is bound to happen. Whether it's a personality clash with your partner, frustration over unclear responsibilities or a disagreement with leadership, knowing how to navigate workplace tension is a crucial skill.   In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson break down conflict resolution strategies. Whether you're dealing with an overbearing supervisor, a partner who won't pull their weight or just the everyday stress of the job, this episode will arm you with the tools to handle conflict effectively.  Memorable quotes: “My way of dealing with these conflicts is, I try to remind myself that they're not so different from me. They want the same things in life. They just differ in how they want to get there.” — Kelly Grayson  “We hear all the time that perception is reality, but what does that really mean? It means, if somebody thinks that you've slighted them, you've slighted them.” — Chris Cebollero   “Regardless of how good you are at practicing the art and science of leadership, conflict always happens, right?” — Chris Cebollero  Additional resources:   Toxic partners: The damage they do in EMS  EMT partners: ‘The people that really make it happen' on calls  The 3-part EMS assessment: Your patient, your partner and yourself  How to tell if your EMS partner is a jerk  When crew dynamics disrupt patient care Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest!

In this episode of Inside EMS, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson are joined by Nick Maltby, chief of service for New Hartford Volunteer Ambulance Service, and a clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety and PTSD. Nick brings a unique perspective, blending frontline EMS experience with mental health expertise to tackle one of the biggest issues in EMS today — mental health support that actually works. Memorable quotes “Depression is a voice that whispers to you that you can't do all the things that bring you joy.” — Kelly Grayson “The first step to a problem getting worse is thinking, ‘I can't tell anybody, because if I did, they would ostracize me, they would fire me, they wouldn't be my friend,' but it's all in your head.” — Nick Maltby Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

In this week's episode of the Inside EMS Podcast, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss some of the biggest news stories in EMS from the month. First up: A fire chief in Colorado is under investigation for running nearly 300 medical calls on an expired paramedic certification from 2019. What happens when leadership sets a bad example for their crews? The pair also discuss several mental health initiatives, including the University of Washington's new first responder training program and the mental health teams supporting evacuees of California's wildfires. Plus, Chris reacts to an idea floated by the new White House administration to reduce FEMA's role, and Kelly gives his take on why the agency – despite its flaws – is a necessity. Have an EMS-related news story you want Chris and Kelly to analyze? Send an email to theshow@ems1.com. Memorable quotes  “If you don't want to pay for it, then, then don't gripe about poor response times ... or inadequate care, because you wouldn't pay for it.” — Kelly Grayson “ You know, during COVID, we were heroes.  And we squandered that goodwill and let ourselves be pushed onto the back burner until something horrific happens to California. And then firefighting leaps into the breach again. Then, those citizens are incredibly grateful, but when this is all over, they'll fade back into obscurity again.” — Kelly Grayson This episode of the Inside EMS Podcast is sponsored by Philips. Time to take pre-hospital emergency care to the next level. Time for Tempus. Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest. 

Ever wonder what really happens inside the body during shock? This week, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dive into the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS).  From vasoconstriction to fluid retention, they break down this complex topic with real-life examples, a sprinkle of humor and practical tips for how EMS providers can apply this knowledge in the field. Kelly shares the importance of understanding the “why” behind shock presentations, from recognizing when fluids won't work to knowing when vasopressors are the answer. With anecdotes like treating a sepsis patient on ACE inhibitors and using pulse ox waveforms for clues, this episode blends science with field-tested wisdom. Whether you're an EMT, paramedic, or just an anatomy nerd, you'll walk away with a clearer picture of how the RAAS keeps us alive – and how we, as EMS professionals, can work smarter alongside it. Memorable quotes “It's called, ‘The Renan Angiotensin Aldosterone System – not just a planetary belt in Star Wars'”. — Kelly Grayson “So, the kidneys now say, ‘We're not getting enough blood. Here's this renin that we're gonna send out because we've gotta fix this problem.' What the body doesn't know is that Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson and you are out there trying to fix it. So it's trying to fix itself.” — Chris Cebollero Related resources: Understanding push dose pressors Understanding prehospital vasopressors: Dopamine, epinephrine or norepinephrine? A basic overview of shock for EMS Compensated vs. decompensated shock: what you need to know ABOUT THE SPONSOR Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One tool. Every day. Regardless of event. Discover more at Pulsara.com. RATE & REVIEW Catch a new episode of the Inside EMS podcast every Friday. Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

In this episode of Inside EMS, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson explore leadership insights drawn from a recent post by The Humbled Medic blog, which highlights lessons from the hit Apple TV show “Ted Lasso.” Known for its humor and heart, the show serves as a surprising but fitting blueprint for leadership, especially for EMS educators and professionals.  The hosts discuss the importance of embracing the philosophy “be curious, not judgmental,” a guiding principle that urges EMS providers to set aside assumptions about patients and colleagues. Other takeaways include the value of challenging oneself to grow, the significance of second chances, and the power of building a trusted support system.   From embracing discomfort, to cultivating belief in others and finding small ways to show kindness, the episode encourages EMS professionals to lead with both heart and purpose.  ABOUT THE SPONSOR  Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One tool. Every day. Regardless of event. Discover more at Pulsara.com.  RATE & REVIEW  Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest. 

EMS pay and retention – or the lack thereof – is at the heart of this week's episode of Inside EMS. Hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson tackle a news item out of Dougherty County, Georgia, where a recent exodus of EMS professionals spurred long-overdue pay raises and bonuses. The discussion then shifts to Pickens County, Alabama, where a lack of funding led to a total EMS shutdown. Chris and Kelly explore how underfunded systems collapse under the weight of low reimbursement rates, poor public understanding of EMS costs, and systemic inaction until tragedy strikes. Through real-world examples, the hosts unpack why it's essential to “vote with your feet” as an EMS professional and how agencies can keep talent by either paying well or fostering loyalty – though they can't afford to fail at both. If you've ever wondered why EMS seems stuck in a financial rut, this episode offers insights that hit close to home. ABOUT THE SPONSOR Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One tool. Every day. Regardless of event. Discover more at Pulsara.com. RATE & REVIEW Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

Kelly Grayson is a very experienced paramedic, educator, speaker and author that serves the EMS community. You can follow him here: (10) Kelly Grayson (@AmboDriver) / X (20+) FacebookYou can find his books on AmazonAmazon.com: On Scene: More Stories of Life, Death and Everything In Between (A Paramedic's Stories of Life, Death and Everything In Between Book 2) eBook : Grayson, Steven "Kelly" : Kindle StoreEn Route: A Paramedic's Stories of Life, Death and Everything In Between: Grayson, Steven Kelly: 9781537770819: Amazon.com: BooksHow to compartmentalize and do our job without losing our humanity. This is a balance we are all trying to findKelly talks about how he had to detach in order to quickly triage on a scene and how this is necessary to do the job a lot of timesJoy and pain are different sides of the same coin; if you insulate from one you deny the enjoyment of the otherIf you don't let the failure to resuscitate a pediatric patient bother you, how can you feel the joy of delivering a baby?Often we are spending more time with the lowest of society rather than on our own health and well-being You have to be able to step away from EMS and leave work at work. But we all know this is very difficult. You need to share your feelings with your family. Holding it all inside is not helpfulKelly talks about how this lack of communication cost him aSupport the showFull show notes can be found here: Episodes - Practical EMS - Content for EMTs, PAs, ParamedicsMost efficient online EKG course here: Practical EKG Interpretation - Practical EMS earn 4 CME and learn the fundamentals through advanced EKG interpretation in under 4 hours. If you want to work on your nutrition, increase your energy, improve your physical and mental health, I highly recommend 1st Phorm. Check them out here so they know I sent you. 1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition Everything you hear today from myself and my guests is opinion only and doesn't represent any organizations or companies that any of us are affiliated with. The stories you hear have been modified to protect patient privacy and any resemblance to real individuals is coincidental. This is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice nor used to diagnose any medical or healthcare conditions.

Crossover alert! On this week's Inside EMS podcast, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dive into a vital topic: the culture of accountability in EMS. Sparked by FireRescue1 Senior Fire Advisor Chief Marc Bashoor's article, "Where is our culture of accountability?", the hosts explore why change is so difficult to embrace, how leadership impacts culture and what steps agencies can take to help foster accountability across an organization. Thank you to Pulsara for sponsoring this episode of Inside EMS. Discover more at Pulsara.com. Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback.

In this week's episode of the Inside EMS podcast, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dive into a vital topic: the culture of accountability in EMS. Sparked by FireRescue1's Chief Marc Bashoor's thought-provoking article, "Where is our culture of accountability?", the hosts explore why change is so difficult to embrace, how leadership impacts culture and what steps agencies can take to help foster accountability across an organization. From managing expectations to addressing fairness in discipline, our cohosts discuss the challenges of enforcing standards and avoiding the normalization of deviance. Whether it's implementing safety protocols or shifting organizational norms, this episode unpacks how leaders and teams can work together to inspire meaningful change. Quotable takeaways “The only one who likes change is a wet baby.” — Kelly Grayson “If you don't correct something, that thing becomes the new standard.” — Kelly Grayson “Vision is where we're going; strategy is how we're going to get there and culture is the behavior of the organization in reaching the vision.” — Chris Cebollero “Turnover isn't the end of the world.” — Kelly Grayson ----more---- ABOUT THE SPONSOR Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One tool. Every day. Regardless of event. Discover more at Pulsara.com. RATE & REVIEW Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

Kelly Grayson is a very experienced paramedic, educator, speaker and author that serves the EMS community. You can follow him here: (10) Kelly Grayson (@AmboDriver) / X (20+) FacebookYou can find his books on AmazonAmazon.com: On Scene: More Stories of Life, Death and Everything In Between (A Paramedic's Stories of Life, Death and Everything In Between Book 2) eBook : Grayson, Steven "Kelly" : Kindle StoreEn Route: A Paramedic's Stories of Life, Death and Everything In Between: Grayson, Steven Kelly: 9781537770819: Amazon.com: BooksKelly talks about how he was cocky for many years when he first started as a paramedic. Paramedics often go one of two routes: God's gift to paramedicine or bringing their text books around in fear every dayKelly re published En route and On Scene the way he meant to release them in the first place in 2023A lot of us go through the “God's gift to paramedicine” phase of our career when we are overly-confident when we are newKelly tells a moving story about an elderly woman and how not everyone wants to be savedSupport the showIf you want to support the show, follow the links below for some great health and fitness products.My favorite protein:https://1stphorm.com/products/phormula-1/?a_aid=PracticalEMS My favorite 1ST Phorm Energy Drinks: https://1stphorm.com/products/1st-phorm-energy/?a_aid=PracticalEMS My favorite creatine supplement https://1stphorm.com/products/micronized-creatine-monohydrate/?a_aid=PracticalEMS My favorite pre-workout supplementhttps://1stphorm.com/products/project-1/?a_aid=PracticalEMS If you want to work on your nutrition, increase your energy, improve your physical and mental health, I highly recommend 1st Phorm. Check them out here so they know I sent you. 1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition Everything you hear today from myself and my guests is opinion only and doesn't represent any organizations or companies that any of us are affiliated with. The stories you hear have been modified to protect patient privacy and any resemblance to real individuals is coincidental. This is for ed...

This week, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson host a virtual book club as they count down the top 10 essential texts that paramedics should have on their shelves – a mix of useful references, anatomy and physiology deep dives, and heartfelt memoirs that capture the essence of EMS work. From learning resources, to comic relief, there's something for everyone in this list. Did our cohosts exclude a favorite EMS-focused book? Send your suggestions to editor@ems1.com for inclusion in a future article. Memorable quotes “I think that a good paramedic is someone who is proficient in their knowledge and their skills, and keeps up to date. That's a good paramedic. A great paramedic adds empathy and compassion to that list. And that's what differentiates the confident ones from the great ones.” — Kelly Grayson “The central message is that Teddy Roosevelt quote: ‘People don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care.'” — Kelly Grayson ABOUT THE SPONSOR Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One tool. Every day. Regardless of event. Discover more at Pulsara.com. RATE & REVIEW Catch a new episode of the Inside EMS podcast every Friday on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Spotify, and RSS feed. Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

How old are you in EMS years? Are you using clinical skills that should be put out to pasture? Listen as cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson debate the effectiveness of “retired” EMS skills, like nasal and digital intubation, and whether the value of those skills has held up over time. Memorable quotes “If you're not proficient with all the tools in your box, what does that say about your training?” “I take a lot of pride in having a deep bag of tricks to pull from. And I can't count the number of times that some obscure piece of knowledge, or an assessment or treatment technique worked for me in the field when everyone else had given up or not even considered it.” ----more---- ABOUT THE SPONSOR Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One tool. Every day. Regardless of event. Discover more at Pulsara.com. ENJOYING THE SHOW? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

Last week, Inside EMS cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson laid out the top 10 indications of a bad EMS supervisor (Did you miss it? Catch it here!). This week they're tackling the top signs of a bad employee, such as poor attendance, lack of initiative and a bad attitude – that's not you, right? Listen as our duo reflects on each characteristic and where they have seen (or exhibited!) those traits in their career. Memorable quotes "If you're emotionally intelligent and honest with yourself, you probably see yourself in some of these things."   "It's not over until the paperwork – or the ambulance – is ready for the next day."   "Being disengaged shows up in things you don't think matter, like documentation and keeping the ambulance stocked."  ABOUT THE SPONSOR Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One tool. Every day. Regardless of event. Discover more at Pulsara.com. RATE & REVIEW Enjoying the show? Send an email to the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

The What Paramedics Want in 2024 report, produced by EMS1 and Fitch & Associates, found respondents to the 2024 EMS Trend Survey ranked leadership No. 4 in the critical issues facing EMS today (behind only retention, funding & reimbursement, and career development). In this episode of Inside EMS, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson expose the unpleasant side of EMS leadership by naming the top 10 signs of a bad manager. From communication breakdowns to micromanagement nightmares, they explore what makes some managers, well … not so great, while dishing out hard truths about inconsistent leadership, the dangers of favoritism, and the importance of empathy. Want to know if your manager is part of the problem – or if you're on your way to becoming one? Check it out! TOP QUOTES "Communication is the language of leadership." “When you show no concern for the employees, for their interests, you have a breeding ground for developing a toxic work environment.” “The true measurement of workforce success is how engaged, satisfied and productive the workforce is – nothing else matters.” “You need to care about these people and love them a little bit, as well.” ABOUT THE SPONSOR Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One tool. Every day. Regardless of event. Discover more at Pulsara.com. REACH OUT Enjoying the show? Please contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you'd like to join us as a guest.

This week on the Inside EMS podcast, our hosts delve into a heated discussion on the topic of time requirements and response times in EMS – are they necessary or a nuisance? Listen and watch as Kelly Grayson and Chris Cebollero go back and forth on the history, the reliance and the continued use of response times as a standard metric in EMS.   Top quotes "We are in a mess and a corner we painted ourselves into with response time standards." – Kelly Grayson "The dislike of response times really has to be respectful of how the response times came about. We were trying to develop a system and show that we can make a difference." – Chris Cebollero "We created this expectation and no one is going to change this expectation if not us." – Kelly Grayson This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, host Chris Cebollero walks cohost Kelly Grayson through his recent emergency trip to Italy after his sister experienced a major medical crisis while on vacation in the country. He talks through his shock at certain protocols that would never be found in the U.S., leading to a discussion about necessary care vs. defensive medicine and how that dichotomy is stark between the two countries. Top quotes “The quality of care or the TLC, if we call it, is significantly less than what we're used to over here. There were a couple of days when my sister was laying on a bed with no sheets. There were a couple of days where she was naked and I asked about getting her a gown or something.” — Chris Cebollero "[The U.S. healthcare system] will enthusiastically commit to what other countries would consider futile care.” — Kelly Grayson “How much stuff do we do in the United States because of defensive medicine and the differences in our legal and our court system than everybody else?” — Kelly Grayson This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

“Marijuana use is becoming part of a societal norm.” Our cohosts tackle one of the more contentious topics in the industry, as Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson debate the logistics and implications of allowing EMS providers to consume marijuana in their off-duty time. The use of federal money by most agencies in the country makes this a difficult task. Listen as the discussion tackles the debate from all sides.  Top quotes “We don't require that people not be impaired from alcohol while off duty.” “There's no test for impairment. For alcohol use, the test is literally about reaction time and fine motor skills. It's literally a test to see if you can operate heavy machinery. And there is no such thing for marijuana use.” “I think it's time we started to look at this realistically rather than this condemnation of marijuana as the devil's lettuce.” This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

Today, I get to dive deep into stories with Kelly Grayson, author of A Paramedic's Story: Life, Death, and Everything in Between and Perspectives Volume 1 and 2.Kelly not only shares his journey to discover his love and talent for writing but also some of his darkest moments as a medic and in his personal life and how he has overcome those situations.

“We've got to be on top of our game when it comes to clinical dosing of medications, from oxygen to ketamine.” This week, Inside EMS cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dive into an article by Joshua Davies on the use of chemical restraints in the field. They discuss the pros and cons of different medications, including a lively discussion on the use of versed and why ketamine is a good drug … when dosed and used properly. Top quotes "You should have a fairly extensive formulary of antipsychotic and sedative agents available to you." "We need to stop worrying about what we're seeing in the news and train our providers." "We really have to be able to give our medical director confidence that whatever is in the protocol and whatever they want to give us in the protocol, we have the competency to do that work and do that skill." This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

“If you're the smartest one in the room, you're in the wrong room.” Education is the word of the day on this episode of Inside EMS, as cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dissect the impact of higher learning on providers' career longevity and advancement. Plus we dig into all this: Starter EMS agencies. “Some agencies might just have to be the minor leagues, the starter programs and the feeders to the real EMS agencies." Prioritizing your professional growth. “We're in charge of the career ladder. I shouldn't have to worry about my organization putting something in place for me to grow. They don't owe that to me. It's my job to market myself and create the opportunity." Big picture impact of higher education. “When people say, ‘I don't need an education to be a paramedic,' they don't know what they don't know. It's not until you get a little older and a little wiser that you realize the value of that education." This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

Inside EMS cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson delve into a legal case out of New Jersey in this week's episode, in which law enforcement officers and EMS providers were recently charged with the in-custody, in-ambulance death of a patient under the influence of bath salts. The discussion also discusses a similar incident out of Colorado in which two paramedics and a police officer were convicted in the 2019 death of Elijah McClain after he was injected with ketamine. Chris and Kelly share vulnerable moments from their careers when they regret not advocating for their patient in the face of law enforcement actions, plus we dig into all this: The growing legal scrutiny of EMS practices How to use de-escalation techniques to mitigate contentious situations with law enforcement partners The ethical responsibilities of EMS providers This episode of the Inside EMS Podcast is sponsored by LogRx. Learn a better way to track your narcotics at LogRx.com.

“Sometimes we made decisions and wound up getting corrective action where maybe a culture of coaching would have taught me to grow.” Kelly Grayson puts the spotlight on fellow cohost Chris Cebollero this week as the pair discuss whether progressive discipline still has a place in EMS or if a move to a culture of coaching, as written about extensively by Chris, would have a more positive impact on retention rates, turnover, burnout and overall career satisfaction. Top quotes “Experience comes from mistakes and mistakes come from lack of experience.” – Chris Cebollero "I've gotten enough progressive discipline, enough paper that I can wallpaper a small closet." – Chris Cebollero “This isn't about me wanting to fire you. This is about me wanting to make you the very best that you can be.” – Chris Cebollero This episode of the Inside EMS Podcast is sponsored by LogRx. Learn a better way to track your narcotics at LogRx.com.

This week our cohosts are talking about everyone's favorite activity: public speaking. While you may not love talking to a crowd, knowing how to effectively deliver a presentation is not just for leaders. Providers at all levels should know how to communicate on a complex topic to a group of people. And who knows more about expounding on complex EMS topics than Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson? The pair highlight their extensive experience as educators and industry speakers, discussing: The key components of effective public speaking How to make presentations more dynamic Why you should be intimately familiar with your material Tips and tricks for new public speakers This episode of the Inside EMS Podcast is sponsored by LogRx. Learn a better way to track your narcotics at LogRx.com.

In this week's episode of Inside EMS, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson delve into situational awareness, and the complexities and challenges faced every day by EMS professionals. The discussion emphasizes the importance of staying alert and prepared in emergency situations, following Cooper's Colors – a model illustrating different states of awareness from "tuned out" to "comatose." This week's conversation touches on:   The significance of situational awareness in EMS and how it can be the difference between life and death in emergency scenarios. Strategies for maintaining and improving situational awareness on the job, including practical applications of Cooper's Colors and mental preparation techniques. The psychological and emotional challenges of EMS work, offering insights into how EMS professionals navigate stress, uncertainty and the complexities of emergency response. Memorable quotes "I think that paramedics are great at ensuring the scene is safe. I think paramedics and EMTs are poor once we say the scene is safe ... we forget about what's going on." — Chris Cebollero "'Safe scenes' are what get EMTs killed because we don't go into unsafe scenes. It's the scene that we initially deemed safe that gets you killed because you don't see it coming." — Kelly Grayson About the sponsor This episode of the Inside EMS Podcast is sponsored by LogRx. Learn a better way to track your narcotics at LogRx.com. EMS1 uses generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.

In this episode of the Inside EMS Podcast, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss Orange County, Florida's adoption of live stream technology for 911 calls, a move that promises to enhance the quality of emergency response through better triage and patient care. This episode of Inside EMS Podcast exemplifies the ongoing evolution of emergency medical services, marked by technological innovation, educational advancements, and the importance of leadership and community engagement in shaping the future of EMS. Learn more: Fla. county launches livestream option for 911 calls Cebollero and Grayson discussed how integrating video technology into 911 dispatch can improve EMS response in the following ways: Enhanced triage accuracy. Live streaming allows dispatchers to visually assess the situation, leading to more accurate triage and resource allocation. This visual context can be crucial in determining the urgency and nature of the response needed. By providing dispatchers with a live visual feed, EMS teams can be better prepared upon arrival, knowing what to expect and potentially improving patient outcomes. Supporting scene safety. Live streaming video in 911 dispatch can significantly improve scene safety for emergency medical personnel by providing real-time visuals of the incident site before their arrival. This advanced insight allows paramedics and EMTs to assess potential hazards, understand the severity of the situation, and prepare appropriate safety measures in advance. This technology empowers responders with crucial information, enabling them to make informed decisions about their approach and ensuring they can protect themselves effectively while delivering critical care. Improved dispatcher-patient interaction: The ability to see the caller and the scene in real-time enhances communication between dispatchers and those in need, fostering a more empathetic and effective exchange of information. Efficiency in emergency response. Visual cues obtained through live streaming can help in quickly identifying the nature of the emergency, potentially reducing response times and increasing the chances of a positive outcome. Enhanced training opportunities. Recorded live streams can serve as valuable training tools, offering real-life scenarios for emergency responders and dispatchers to learn from and improve their skills. Cross-agency collaboration. The integration of live streaming technology encourages collaboration between EMS, fire departments, police and other emergency services, enabling a more coordinated response to incidents. While enthusiastic about the potential of new technologies, Cebollero and Grayson also discussed the need for caution and the anticipation of unforeseen challenges, particularly concerning the privacy and security of live streamed 911 calls. Also in this episode Innovations in EMS. Chris Cebollero shared his new role with QuickMedic and their innovative approach to utilizing paramedics for urgent care in collaboration with healthcare partners, indicating a shift towards more versatile roles for EMS professionals. He emphasized the importance of leadership and vision in developing effective teams across multiple states. Education and training. Kelly Grayson shared experiences from teaching a new accelerated paramedic program, stressing the importance of rigorous standards and personalized feedback to ensure student success, highlighting the evolving educational methodologies in EMS training. About the sponsor This episode of the Inside EMS Podcast is sponsored by LogRx. Learn a better way to track your narcotics at LogRx.com. EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.

Heart blocks present a significant challenge to EMTs and paramedics, demanding a high level of expertise and precision in both diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the nuances of different types of heart blocks is crucial for effective patient management. The ability to accurately recognize and differentiate between various heart blocks, such as bifascicular, trifascicular and other types, is not just a matter of academic understanding but a vital skill in the fast-paced environment of EMS. In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss how to train EMTs and paramedics to recognize, differentiate and treat heart blocks. Memorable quotes "Some of the drugs that we give are sometimes cause many problems as they solve." — Kelly Grayson "The best way to make an arrhythmia go away is to be prepared for the arrhythmia." — Kelly Grayson “One of the things that we're talking about here is pacing. And I don't think that that's two things that we do very well in EMS. Paramedics don't pace and paramedics don't cardiovert. And one of the things that you've got to be able to remember is when those patients need both.” — Chris Cebollero Key takeaways Understanding heart blocks, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson delve deep into the recognition and differentiation of heart blocks. Grayson emphasizes the challenge EMTs face in distinguishing between various heart blocks, such as bifascicular and trifascicular blocks, highlighting the need for thorough training and understanding. Treatment approaches. The podcast hosts discuss the traditional and contemporary treatment approaches to heart blocks, focusing on medications like atropine, lidocaine and procainamide. Grayson points out the delicate balance between treating the arrhythmia and avoiding exacerbating the patient's condition. Electrical therapy preference. Both hosts advocate for the use of electrical therapy ("the Edison medicine") in critical cases of arrhythmias. They stress the importance of pacing in cases of bradycardia and cardioversion in tachycardia, especially when the patient is hemodynamically unstable. Patient-centric care. A recurring theme is the importance of treating the patient, not just the monitor readings. This includes understanding when to apply treatments and recognizing when a wait-and-see approach might be more beneficial. Educational insights. Grayson shares his teaching methods, including the use of analogies and the "AV block cheat sheet" to simplify complex concepts for EMTs and paramedics in training. This episode of the Inside EMS Podcast is sponsored by LogRx. Learn a better way to track your narcotics at LogRx.com.  EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.

Critical insights into the implications of recent court rulings on EMS practice and patient care This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson delve into the complex and ever-evolving legal and ethical dimensions EMS. This episode comes in the wake of a significant court ruling in which two paramedics were found guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the Elijah McClain case. The hosts discuss this judgment's far-reaching implications for EMS professionals, emphasizing the heightened legal scrutiny and accountability now present in the field. Memorable quotes "More and more, we are starting to see prosecutors making examples of paramedics, EMTs, who are not doing the right thing, or them thinking they're not doing the right thing, and our peers are now starting to get connected with murder and manslaughter charges, and it's something that we have to be very, very cognizant of." — Chris Cebollero "I think that where this case went off the rails is that both paramedics involved forgot that they were first and foremost patient advocates and were acting as law enforcement." — Kelly Grayson "We're doing our job with ego and this isn't about you. This is about the people that call for our help, and we've got to break that habit, because our poor interactions with people are leading to those national calls when these folks die." — Chris Cebollero "What could be the worst day of somebody's life ... that's powerful, right? People forget what a privilege that is. But we have to be able to remember that our ego is not good for medicine." — Chris Cebollero "You should train and educate yourself enough that you're not in doubt very often, but you should be conservative and call someone for, for consultation. That's what medical control is for." — Kelly Grayson Key takeaways Cebollero and Grayson discussed the growing legal scrutiny faced by EMS professionals, with the following takeaways: Importance of accurate medication dosage. The conversation emphasized the criticality of correctly estimating a patient's weight for administering weight-based medications. Misjudgment in dosage, as seen in the McClain case, can lead to severe consequences. EMS education and training needs. The podcast underscored the need for continuous education and situational awareness among EMS practitioners. The hosts debated how such high-profile cases could influence EMS practices and potentially lead to overly cautious behavior, which might not always be in the patient's best interest. Cebollero and Grayson stress the necessity for precise patient assessment, a skill that goes beyond technical expertise to encompass a deep understanding of the patient's condition and needs. Their discussion points to a growing need for EMS education and training to adapt and address these challenges, ensuring that EMS practitioners are equipped to make informed decisions in high-stakes situations. Patient advocacy and interaction. Another key aspect of the conversation is the role of paramedics as patient advocates. The hosts argue that EMS professionals should prioritize their medical responsibilities over any perceived obligation to law enforcement. This episode critically examines the ethical considerations in EMS, particularly in scenarios involving mental health or police involvement. By sharing personal experiences and insights, Cebollero and Grayson highlight the delicate balance EMS providers must maintain between following protocol, ensuring patient safety and navigating complex legal landscapes. Read for more: The EMS system failed McClain and the justice system failed the paramedics] Rate and review the Inside EMS podcast Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or if you'd like to join us as a guest. Catch a new episode every Friday on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, PodBean, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Spotify, and RSS feed. EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. The first episode of Inside EMS in 2024, hosted by Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson, offered valuable insights into what's needed to overcome the challenges for EMTs, paramedics and EMS agencies in the year ahead. Memorable quotes "We need to take charge and, and steer our profession, and generally we don't – as a profession, we tend to be reactive rather than proactive." — Kelly Grayson "We have to be worthy of [trust and respect]. And that's what we're trying to do here. So be better than the people you've seen." — Kelly Grayson "You don't let the people around you dictate your professionalism." — Chris Cebollero "Patient assessment is the most important skill a paramedic, EMT has." — Chris Cebollero Key takeaways 2024 EMS Trend Survey. The hosts highlighted the importance of the What Paramedics Want in 2024 annual EMS trend survey focusing on recruitment, retention, safety, health, wellness, technology adaptation and career development. [Insert Promo module linking directly to the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2024WPW-EMS1] Future of EMS system design. The podcast touched on the issues faced by volunteer and rural EMS agencies, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions and cooperation among various squads. The discussion focused on evolving EMS, particularly the potential shift from paramedic/EMT teams to dual EMT teams with paramedics in chase vehicles, to enhance the use of EMT capabilities. Advocating proactivity in EMS. Grayson stressed the importance of being proactive rather than reactive in shaping the EMS profession, especially in education and practice standards. Both cohosts underscored the importance of ongoing personal and professional development, advocating for a culture of continual learning and improvement in EMS. Enhancing education and professional standards. The conversation delved into the challenges of EMS education, particularly in teaching comprehensive patient assessment and encouraging paramedics to expect more of themselves. Grayson shared experiences from teaching paramedic classes, focusing on the need for instructors to balance high expectations with realistic goals for entry-level paramedics. The goal for 2024, as expressed by Grayson, is to produce a new wave of competent paramedics, challenging existing educational norms to improve overall EMS quality. Importance of patient assessment skills: The cohosts also emphasized the critical role of patient assessment in EMS, advocating for more thorough and continuous assessment throughout patient care. Read more. Rapid Response: Scene safety trumps patient care but does not replace duty The episode provided valuable insights into the current state and future directions of EMS, highlighting challenges and opportunities. These discussions are vital for EMTs and paramedics as they navigate their careers in 2024. EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this year's Inside EMS year-in-review episode, our cohosts, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson, take a critical look at the major incidents that defined EMS in 2023. Together, they tackle: Paramedics behaving badly The episode begins with a focus on the troubling trend of subpar patient care and missteps. The hosts emphasize the importance of delivering compassionate and professional care on every call. They discuss the case in which EMS providers faced charges of first-degree murder after a patient died due to positional asphyxia, underscoring the need for accountability in the profession. Violence against providers Next, the hosts address the increasing incidents of violence against EMTs, including stabbings and assaults. They highlight the need for better safety measures and policies to protect EMS personnel. Criminalization of medical errors Shifting gears, the hosts delve into instances of medical errors, such as administering the wrong drug. They stress the critical importance of delivering high-quality patient care on every call, regardless of the nature of the complaint. Focus on CPR The discussion then turns to a dramatic moment in the NFL when Damar Hamlin went into cardiac arrest after a hit during a game. The hosts commend the quick response of athletic staff and paramedics, emphasizing the significance of well-executed resuscitation efforts. The demise of ET3 Finally, Chris and Kelly address the unexpected premature end of the ET3 model, a pilot program aimed at improving EMS care and reimbursement. The hosts express disappointment in CMS's decision and question the rationale behind it. In conclusion, this year-in-review podcast provides valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of the EMS field in the past year. It highlights the need for accountability, safety measures and ongoing efforts to improve patient care and EMS policies. Memorable quote: "Every single call that we run has to be done with the utmost dedication, commitment, professionalism, as if it was the last or maybe even the first EMS call we've ever run. Complacency is what kills there." EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this episode of Inside EMS, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson delve into the crucial role of preceptors in EMS training and the impact they have on shaping the future of the profession. They emphasize the significance of preceptors as the "keepers of the flame" who pass on traditions and knowledge to new generations of EMS providers. Memorable quotes "Preceptors have a fundamental understanding of their role in shaping the future of the profession." — Kelly Grayson "Legacy. The keepers of the flame are not the instructors. They're not the officers. Officers come and go, but the preceptors are the keepers of the flame and pass on the traditions." — Kelly Grayson "Preceptors are probably the most important component of EMS education." — Kelly Grayson The hosts discuss the challenges and responsibilities of being a preceptor, emphasizing the need for preceptors to understand their role in shaping the future of EMS. They also touch on the importance of legacy and how preceptors play a pivotal role in maintaining and passing down the profession's traditions. Grayson underscores the value of preceptors, highlighting that they are the individuals who can guide and mentor new EMS providers, ultimately affecting the lives of countless patients. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing preceptors as vital contributors to EMS education. Listen to next: ‘You don't know everything there is to know about EMS' EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, the discussion centered on the practical application of leadership in EMS. The conversation highlighted the gap between commonly used leadership buzzwords and their real-world implementation. Key points Employee engagement and empowerment. The need for genuine engagement and empowerment in the workplace was stressed. Kelly Grayson shares an example of providing discounted meals for employees during hectic schedules as a concrete example of servant leadership. Leadership by buzzwords. Our cohosts raise concerns about leaders in EMS who rely on buzzwords without understanding their practical implications. They suggest many EMS leaders are caught up in an "ego vortex," focusing more on authority and titles rather than service and care. Personal leadership journey. Chris Cebollero shares his personal journey from being a "horrible leader" to understanding the essence of effective leadership. He emphasizes the importance of emotional control and viewing challenges as solutions. Systemic issue in EMS leadership. The discussion highlights a systemic problem in EMS leadership, pointing out the lack of formal training and understanding of the art and science of leadership. Our cohosts stress that success in leadership should be measured by the engagement, satisfaction and productivity of the workforce. The Peter Principle. The conversation touches on the Peter Principle, where individuals are promoted to their level of incompetence. They note often, leaders are not equipped with the necessary tools and training for their roles. Difference between managers and leaders. A distinction is made between managers and leaders. Managers are described as those who enforce policies and procedures, whereas leaders are seen as doing the right thing and then justifying it officially. Learn more: Visit the EMS Leader Playbook Memorable quotes: "The true measurement of leadership success is how engaged, satisfied and productive the workforce is. Nothing else matters." — Chris Cebollero "Leadership is both an art and a science. You've got to know and understand the science before you can paint the portrait of organizational success." — Chris Cebollero This episode underscores the need for a paradigm shift in EMS leadership, moving away from traditional authoritative styles to a more engaged, empathetic and service-oriented approach. Rate and review Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or if you'd like to join us as a guest. EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this episode of Inside EMS, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss an incident that sparked fierce debate within the EMS community. The incident in question occurred on October 27, 2023, when a Washington, D.C., firefighter/EMT was dismissed for stopping at a Chick-fil-A before responding to an ALS call. The hosts discuss the ethical implications of this decision, emphasizing the duty to act in emergency services. Cebollero and Grayson, while acknowledging the challenging landscape of working in EMS, stressed that personal needs and comfort should never compromise the responsibility to respond to emergencies. They shared personal experiences of missing meals due to service calls. The hosts stress how the duty to act commitment to help others should always outweigh personal needs in emergency services. The discussion also centered on the commendable actions of D.C. Fire and EMS in addressing the incident. Grayson was firm in his belief that the action taken by the D.C. firefighter/EMT was unequivocally unethical and damaging to the public trust. The hosts underscored the importance of upholding the greatest standards of ethics and responsibility, even when not in the public eye. Memorable quotes "Ethics are how you behave when no one is looking. There's not a whole lot of gray area in ethical situations." — Kelly Grayson "The whole point of 911 and the honor of what we do is, you call, we come: no question." — Kelly Grayson "I can't count the number of times I have been waiting in line for food and I've been dispatched to a call. I've had to get out of line. I've had to lose my money. I didn't get a chance to eat that day." — Chris Cebollero "We have a duty to act. We have to be able to respond as we need to respond, regardless of our own personal needs." — Chris Cebollero Read next: Duty to act, assess, treat and transport. A legal refresher for EMS providers RATE AND REVIEW Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or if you'd like to join us as a guest. EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this episode of Inside EMS, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss innovative approaches in EMS with guests Chief David Lewis and Kyle Gaines from the St. Charles County Ambulance District in Missouri. The district's unique approach to paramedicine, specifically in terms of substance use disorders, opioid use disorders and behavioral health, forms the crux of the conversation. Lewis shares how the escalating number of overdose cases necessitated a novel approach to community paramedicine. Starting as a passion project to save lives, the St. Charles County Mobile Integrated Healthcare Network was born from a need to tackle the overdose epidemic more effectively. Initially adopting a model from Ohio that involved paramedics, social workers and law enforcement officers responding to overdoses, they soon realized patients were reticent to engage when law enforcement was present. This led to the evolution of the program, with paramedics being specially trained to handle sensitive conversations, helping patients access treatment. Gaines discusses how educating their team members about addiction was instrumental in overcoming initial resistance to the program and ensuring its success. In the years since its inception, the program has grown and has proven to be effective, with about one in four patients they encounter eventually sitting in front of a treatment counselor. Read more: $1.5M grant allows SCCAD's expansion of substance abuse program RATE AND REVIEW Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or if you'd like to join us as a guest. EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors. 

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this episode of Inside EMS, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss the importance of integrity, documentation and tracking errors in the field. Chris spent the past week in jury duty, listening to prosecutors unsuccessfully try a murder case that resulted in a hung jury. He shares details that tripped up law enforcement officers testifying in the case, and the jury's perspective on errors made, lies told and how integrity doubts derailed the case.   Memorable quotes “One of the things that you need to be able to remember is you should not talk about anything that is not written in your report, because they will tear it apart, and I watched that happen ... when we talk about documentation, why documentation is very, very important is because it's the little nuances that you leave out that now you're going to discuss that are going to get you into trouble.” — Chris Cebollero “In working with Gene Gandy back in the day …  he used to say that the plaintiff's attorney – in a malpractice case – his job is to make you look like a sloppy idiot, and your attorney's job is to make you look like Johnny Gage. And the weapon that each one of them will use is your report. And it's up to you to determine who it's more valuable to: the plaintiff's attorney or your attorney.” — Kelly Grayson “We, in civil cases in EMS, we don't really get a jury of our peers. You know, we may have people who are demographically very similar to us, but as far as judging our actions, what they know is Hollywood, which is about as realistic a portrayal of EMS and medicine in general as your average Disney movie.” — Kelly Grayson “The briefer your remarks, the better your case is going to be received, and that's true, you know, it's probably just like an EMS lecture. If you go on forever and ever, you lose people. You want to capture their interest, say what you need to say, and set the stage for what's going to come.” — Kelly Grayson Rate and review Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or if you'd like to join us as a guest.

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this episode of Inside EMS, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson welcome Chief Gary Ludwig to the podcast. The group discuss imparting knowledge to new medics and Ludwig's latest book, “385 Things Veteran EMTs and Paramedics Can Teach You: Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedic Tips and Tricks of the Trade.” The book contains information on patient assessment, managing airways, starting IVs, penetrating trauma, crimes scenes and more. Chief Ludwig shares his experience with terrible PCRs, and why we should be teaching medics to write reports like our law enforcement partners. He shares tips like: Why you should always stay in the left lane How to avoid tipping stretchers Why to avoid abbreviations in PCRs For a signed copy, visit www.garyludwigbooks.com. About our guest  Gary Ludwig is a well-known author, educator, speaker, and consultant who has served in three fire departments over his career. His fire, EMS, rescue, 911 and emergency management career spans a total of 46 years, including 35 years in two metropolitan cities, St. Louis and Memphis. He has been a paramedic for over 44 years. He served as the president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) during the 2019-20 term, and was selected as the International Career Fire Chief of the Year in 2022. He has a master's degree in business and management.  He has written over 500 articles for professional fire and EMS publications and is the author of four books.  He has also been invited to speak at over 400 professional EMS or fire conferences or seminars. He has won numerous awards including the International Career Fire Chief of the Year in 2022, the James O. Page EMS Leadership Award in 2014 and the IAFC EMS Section's James O Page Achievement Award in 2018. He has managed two award-winning metropolitan EMS systems (Memphis and St. Louis) and was fire chief of an ISO Class 1 fire department (Champaign).  In 2022, he was appointed by FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell to the National Advisory Council for FEMA.

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. Suicide is always preventable. If you are having thoughts of suicide or feeling suicidal, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline immediately at 988. Counselors are also available to chat at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Remember: You deserve to be supported, and it is never too late to seek help. Speak with someone today. In this episode of Inside EMS, our cohosts,  Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson, are joined by Willie Doan, a paramedic and academy coordinator from Newcastle, Delaware, to discuss the rampant issues of stress, depression, burnout, substance abuse and suicide among first responders. A recovering alcoholic, Doan shares his story of addiction, beginning with his first drink at 14, acknowledging that he often drank more than his peers, but never recognized it as a problem. As he joined EMS and began witnessing distressing scenes as part of his job, he continued to drink, sometimes using his work as an excuse, whether it was to celebrate a successful resuscitation or to numb the pain of a bad call. Despite his dedication to his duty, Doan admits that his addiction worsened. He didn't acknowledge his alcohol problem until he was in rehab and was educated about how substance abuse affects the brain. His turning point came about 604 days ago, when he was arrested on suspicion of DUI, his second in 6 years. Waking up with no recollection of the event, he asked his mother, "What's wrong with me?" This moment marked the beginning of his journey to recovery. Throughout the discussion, Willie underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing addiction in high-stress professions like first responders. His story serves as a reminder that recovery is possible, and that seeking help is the first step towards overcoming addiction. EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.  Additional resources Addiction in EMS providers: Always see the human side Gordon Graham: First responders are not immune from the opioid crisis; here's what to know Self-care tips to recover from a traumatic EMS incident Healthy coping mechanisms: The most effective ways to combat stress The Code Green Campaign: Mental health resources for first responders

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this episode, our cohosts,  Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss the dire straights for rural EMS as Kelly settles into his new region in upstate New York. Tune in as they discuss: Why EMS isn't deemed essential. Though more states are making moves to designate EMS an “essential” service, it's not universal. What will the designation mean for EMS – and will it be a tax base? The volunteer shortage. With volunteers aging out of EMS, how do we bring new volunteers in? The diminishing numbers are not due to generational differences, Kelly says. “I used to be one of those people who said, ‘aw, kids these days,' … it's not the kids that are bad, it's that EMS has failed to adapt to the times,” he noted. Getting over ego and grudges. Mergers and consolidation are a path to stem EMS closures, but require getting over old conflicts and for someone to step aside and make way for growth. They ask for your input: What will save rural EMS? Chat with our hosts at theshow@ems1.com. RATE AND REVIEW Catch a new episode every Friday on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, PodBean, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Spotify, and RSS feed. Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or if you'd like to join us as a guest.

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. “Tell me a time when you were stressed and how you dealt with it.” You've like heard, answered or asked a variation of that question in one or more interviews during your career. But how can interviewers get more from their questions? In this episode of Inside EMS, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss a recent article by Lexipol Editorial Director, Greg Friese, MS, NRP; “How to use ChatGPT for paramedic interviewing, selection.” In the article, Greg outlines how leaders can use Chat GPT to craft panel interview questions, and a sample prompt: I am interviewing applicants for a full-time job as a paramedic at a busy, private ambulance service that responds to 911 calls and interfacility transport requests. One component of the process is a panel interview with the operations supervisor, a field training officer and an experienced paramedic. Recommend five scenario-based questions the panel should ask each applicant.  In this episode, Chris and Kelly put Greg's prompt to the test and debate, should we be using AI in our daily work in EMS? Tune in to this episode Listen in as our hosts discuss: Other use cases for generative AI in EMS – from scenarios to deployment plans How AI is a potential resources – as well as a potential headache – for educators Takeaways from the recent 2023 NAEMSE Symposium Flattening the forgetting curve – retaining training And don't miss a side debate: is there a case for prehospital ultrasound? Memorable quotes “When we think about interviewing, that's when people really will put the dog on; they are giving us the very best of who they are and we are just getting answers to questions that may or may not be true, and we really have to try to decipher, but how do we challenge these people who are coming in?” — Chris Cebollero “Our dean walked into the office and said, ‘I need you all to start thinking about how we can use ChatGPT and generative AI to enhance and augment our paramedic program.” — Kelly Grayson “The better you are at writing prompts and giving it some specific direction, the better content it's going to churn out for you.” — Kelly Grayson Let us know how you're using AI in EMS: contact editor@ems1.com. Rate and review Catch a new episode of Inside EMS every Friday on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, PodBean, Amazon Music, Stitcher, Spotify, and RSS feed. Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or if you'd like to join us as a guest.  

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. In this episode of Inside EMS, Cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dive into critical thinking. They point out the need to teach EMT students how to make the leap from linear to critical thinking, and the key critical thinking skills needed to make decisions: Being curious: Asking the question why Reasoning Self-awareness Memorable quotes from this episode “Critical thinking is all about the discipline of being able to take in information to experience what's happening, to have a good observation of what's happening and to reason and make the best decisions that we can.” “I think one of the hallmarks of intelligence is intellectual curiosity.” “This is a missing component of critical thinking. Just because we've gotten some information doesn't mean that information is acted on without good analysis.” “When you can divorce yourself emotionally from the information that you're processing, it makes it much easier to analyze.” Together, they discuss: Linear thinking vs. critical thinking Taking emotions out of thinking Emotional intelligence Falling victim to confirmation bias

This episode of Inside EMS is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com. After 30 years in EMS in Louisiana, the past 15 as a critical care paramedic, Kelly Grayson is leaving the Bayou state – and the rig – for a full-time paramedic educator role in New York. Kelly will begin his position as the lead instructor as the lead instructor for the new CoAEMSP-accredited paramedic program at Clarkson University in Pottstown, New York, in August. Chris and Kelly discuss what motivated Kelly to make this leap, and what happens when you change jobs and have to prepare for the next chapter. Memorable quotes from this episode “I can render no higher praise for an EMS agency than to say they let me do my job without handcuffs.” “When we lose a longtime member of the workforce – it hurts – and I hate to be the one to do that.” “You never want to burn a bridge. Even if you hate the place you work, you never know that you may have to go back to them one day and say, you know, ‘are you looking for any help?'” “If I make a commitment to a place, I'll follow their rules, cheerfully.” “Make yourself valuable to prospective employers. If you're not happy where you are, you can make a good living at EMS, you can have career satisfaction in EMS. You might not be able to have those things at the place you are currently.” “It's an employee's market right now.” “Vote with your feet.” Together, they discuss: When it's time to make a career change The skills you need when you come off the truck Shifting the paradigm in EMS education Developing and standing up a new paramedic program Bringing affordable EMS education to rural communities How to leave a position without burning bridges