The Lifeguard Project

WANT TO SEE JUSTIN SEMPSROTT LIVE? Sign up for The Lifeguard Project’s first training event, The RESPONDER ROUND-UP:https://thelifeguardproject.org/the-responder-roundupThese episodes are a must listen for anyone curious about all things drowning. From professionals to public.Dr. Justin Sempsrott is an emergency medicine physician and drowning specialist who’s spent the last two decades advancing drowning resuscitation. We split this episode into a two part recording in order to discuss in detail everything from physiology to advancements in care, global policy, studies, science, and every aspect of drowning management from prevention, to water rescue, conscious victims, and all the way to the hospital. Justin's extensive experience is a valuable asset to the lifeguard project podcast as it makes our community in tune with the latest updates in the world of water rescue and drowning prevention.Justin started as a beach lifeguard in Jacksonville Beach, Florida in 1996. In 2006, he co-founded Lifeguards Without Borders after seeing the massive and preventable global burden of drowning, especially in low- and middle-income countries.He’s provided consultation, training, and medical education across the world working with lifeguards, nurses, physicians, and responders in places like Peru, Portugal, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Australia, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Canada, and beyond.In the last five years alone, Justin has lectured on drowning resuscitation to more than 10,000 prehospital providers including U.S. Air Force PJ’s, Navy SEALs, and other special operations medics. He has also helped spearhead numerous studies which have become the latest science for industry wide as well as statewide drowning protocols, most recently in San Luis Obispo County and in conjunction with the Lifeguard Project.He also brings experience from wilderness medicine and mass gathering medicine, serving as Associate Medical Director for the Burning Man Medical Operations and continues to work in several emergency departments.00:00 Meet Dr Justin Sempsrott01:34 Early Life Overseas03:29 Childhood Drowning Scare06:53 Lifeguarding Beginnings08:45 From Beach to Med School11:49 First Major Rescue13:47 Finding the Drowning Community17:27 Global Drowning Reality Check19:53 Bangladesh Data and Daycares23:07 Defining Drowning Properly27:58 Prevention and Behavior Change32:52 Resuscitation Priorities for Drowning40:40 Oxygen First on Scene51:00 Cross Training First Responders52:25 Preplanning With Lifeguards52:51 Don’t Break What Works54:19 Micro Delays Matter55:05 Salt Vs Fresh Water56:18 Antibiotics And Myths57:33 Cold Water Realities01:00:14 Rescue To Recovery Calls01:04:38 Laryngospasm Explained01:10:40 Foam Cough And Triage01:16:25 Delayed Drowning Debunked01:18:14 Airway Tools Priorities01:25:29 Ventilator Strategy Basics01:27:20 Updating Drowning Protocols01:37:30 Final ThoughtsThanks for listening!Check out these links for more!Drowning Presentation2024 AHA Drowning GuidelinesPresented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Subscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Host, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/drowning resuscitation, drowning prevention, drowning science, drowning definition update, near drowning definition change, lifeguard CPR rescue breathing, oxygen first drowning protocol, BVM ventilation in drowning, foam and vomiting in drowning, jaw thrust airway management, compression-only CPR vs drowning CPR, pediatric drowning prevention, Lifeguards Without Borders, global drowning statistics, water safety education, EMS drowning protocolsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Don Lester is a veteran swift water and technical rescue professional with extensive field experience across firefighting, emergency medical response, and advanced rescue instruction. Over the course of his career, Don logged more than 150 days per season on the water and served as both a Swift Water Rescue instructor and a Rescue 3 International instructor trainer.Known for his thoughtful and disciplined approach, Don emphasizes continuous learning and risk awareness in dynamic water environments. This episode is essential listening for lifeguards, firefighters, river professionals, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of water rescue safety.00:00 Introduction00:08 Meet Don Lester: Swiftwater, Technical Rescue Expert00:53 A Day on the American River01:10 Don's Early Life and Rafting Beginnings01:40 Innovations in Rafting and Early Adventures06:31 Guiding and Professional Development08:12 Pioneering Whitewater and Rescue Techniques19:59 Teaching Philosophy and Influences29:02 Lifeguard Training and Swift Water Rescue36:00 Throw Bag Rescue Techniques36:52 Mindset Differences: Lifeguards vs. Firefighters38:09 Balancing Planning and Action in Rescues40:21 A Real-Life Rescue Story46:20 The Importance of Training and Experience54:40 Creating Effective Rescue Teams01:13:31 The Evolution of Emergency Medicine01:14:26 Learning from Real-World Experiences01:15:42 Challenges and Adaptations in Rescue Training01:17:46 The Complexities of Tsunami and Flood Rescues01:23:55 Mental Health in Rescue Work01:27:15 The Importance of Practice and Preparedness01:35:49 Old Growth Rescue: A New Initiative01:38:57 Final ThoughtsRead More About Don Here:https://oldgrowthrescue.com/Presented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Subscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Host, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/#SwiftWaterRescue#LifeguardPodcast#FirstResponderTraining#TheLifeguardProjectPodcast#BenCarlsonFoundation#WaterRescue#RiverRescue#LifeguardLife#FirstResponders#FirefighterTraining#EMTLife#TechnicalRescue#RescueTraining#RiverGuide#FloodRescue#WaterSafety#SearchAndRescue#EmergencyResponse#RescueMindset#OceanSafetySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Lifeguard Legend Ed Vodrazka (Eddie V) recites the inspirational epilogue from his book - Stories from Sea Level.This book is a hand-picked assemblage of truly exceptional ocean-related events which occurred within the 50-year span between 1969 and 2019. The lifeguards featured in these stories work for various agencies between San Diego and the Sonoma Coast. Of note, the lifeguards themselves provided the author with the details and specifics necessary to accurately immortalize their remarkable and dramatic events. This collection of their accounts are offered by the author as a sincere homage to all lifeguards (past, present, and future) who diligently patrol the California coastline ensuring the safety of the general public.Find it here: https://a.co/d/7tqoWyRSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Welcome to a very special episode on the Lifeguard Project podcast. Today, we get to sit down with Greg Bonann, the creator and producer of Baywatch. At its peak, Baywatch became the most-watched television show in the world, airing in over 140 countries and reaching more than a billion viewers each week.Today, Greg shares his journey from his early start as a kid facing challenges to his first rescues as an LA County lifeguard. Moments that shaped his purpose long before Hollywood came calling. And now 30 years later, Baywatch is returning in 2026 with Greg once again leading the charge, bringing in a new vision, while staying true to the show's roots of courage, community, and rescue.00:00 Introduction to Greg Bonann and Baywatch01:13 Greg's Early Life and Challenges04:04 High School Swimming and Lifeguarding Beginnings09:13 Mentorship and Lifeguard Training21:18 The Lifeguard Brotherhood and Early Experiences28:30 The Birth of a Storyteller31:51 The Rescue That Sparked Baywatch42:32 A Desperate Rescue43:04 The Struggle to Save a Life45:10 A Happy Ending and Reflections46:18 The Frustration of Storytelling46:52 Baywatch's Early Challenges48:18 The Lifeguard's Journey51:40 Junior Lifeguard Program59:03 The Road to Red01:06:27 The Importance of Mentorship01:10:29 Baywatch's Global Impact01:23:21 Pam's Underwater Training01:23:53 Lifeguard Training and Challenges01:25:06 Baywatch's Impact and Recognition01:27:22 Authenticity in Lifeguard Representation01:30:37 Challenges in TV Production01:33:50 Baywatch's Legacy and Future01:45:46 Personal Reflections and Future GoalsRead More About Greg Here:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregory_J._BonannPresented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Subscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Host, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Today I interview Steve Long. Steve was a California State Parks lifeguard, and maybe the only lifeguard who never passed lifeguard training yet was chosen by leadership to Excel and fast track into leadership roles throughout his career.Steve worked in the golden age of lifeguarding in California and ended up as a supervising peace officer for California State Parks in the San Clemente area. Steve and I discuss, not just lifeguarding, but some of his personal philosophy on life and much, much more as always.00:00 Introduction to Steve Long's Lifeguard Journey01:18 Early Life and Passion for Swimming04:09 College Years and Military Aspirations08:31 The Decision to Pursue Lifeguarding12:55 First Encounters with State Lifeguard Training17:51 Becoming a Permanent Lifeguard23:16 Fast-Tracking Through Lifeguard Roles27:01 Memorable Experiences and Challenges36:08 A Lifeguard's First Experience with Death37:07 Rapid Career Advancement40:04 Challenges and Tensions on the Beach41:43 Becoming a Lifeguard Supervisor46:23 Navigating Interjurisdictional Operations51:35 Raising a Family in the Park55:32 Returning to Lifeguarding59:44 The Unique Role of Lifeguards01:04:47 Balancing Work and Family01:10:39 Encouraging the Next Generation01:14:54 Rusty's Journey in Surfing and Career01:15:34 Impact of Lifeguarding on Family and Career01:16:34 Lifeguarding as a Metaphor for Life01:18:34 The High Calling of Lifeguarding01:21:30 Greg's Big Wave Incident01:27:48 The Evolution of Lifeguarding Profession01:28:46 The LA County Lifeguard Walkout01:36:22 Advice for Future Lifeguards01:42:29 Preserving San Onofre and Environmental Stewardship01:48:32 Final ThoughtsLink To The San Onofre Parks Foundation:https://sanoparks.orgPresented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Subscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Host, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

This Rescue Testimonial from Emily Eisenberg explains how she got into trouble and finally rescued from a rip current in Manhattan Beach in Los Angeles County on September 20th, 2020.Emily has a swimming background and very knowledgable about contacting lifeguards and approaching the beach safely. This day when there was less staffing, she found herself taking a dip and getting caught in a rip current with her friend. She expresses her feelings of shame and nervousness to ask for help from a surfer, and also how it was difficult to express to her friends what had happened.Emily's perspective is very insightful to lifeguards how a "standard" rip current rescue is not standard. There is an entirely different perspective that victims have as they go through the process of struggling in the water and becoming worried for their safety. There are also answers afterwards that do not get spoken about, along with many other details.Not all rescues are the same, victims and rescuers can all learn from this perspective.Have a story of your own? Please share!Thanks as always for listening!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Red Isn't Armor is an article by Podcast host Drasko Bogdanovic published in Wilderness Medicine Magazine regarding the misunderstood nature of lifeguarding, mental health, and drowning. You can find the article online to reference some of the photos included.https://wms.org/magazine/magazine/1574/Red-Isn-t-Armor/default.aspxDrasko Bogdanovic is a California State Parks Ocean Lifeguard, Flight Paramedic, and photographer with a focus in prehospital care, aquatic rescue, and drowning prevention. With extensive experience in lifeguarding, EMS, and education, he has trained lifeguards, EMTs, paramedics, and law enforcement officers across California and internationally. As founder of The Lifeguard Project, he uses storytelling through imagery and a podcast to connect field experience with public health education. His work explores the intersection of lifesaving, community engagement, and the often misunderstood nature of drowning.Thanks as always for listening!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Welcome to this episode of the Lifeguard Project Podcast, where I interview Newport Beach, lifeguard John Carpenter. John started as a YAP or Youth Employment Program in 1969 and has served with the Newport Beach Lifeguard Service for 50 years, from 1970 to 2020. During his time, he had certain accolades like training instructor for the Rookie Training Academy Lifeguard of the Year in 1985.Cadet program coordinator, all American swimmer at Costa Mesa High School in 1971, Orange Coast College National Champion in water polo in 1972, and has been a biology teacher for 40 years as well as a water polo and swim coach at Estancia High School. John and I get into some really interesting facts about the inception of the lifeguard service in Newport Beach when I watched him do his centennial presentation of the a hundred year anniversary of the Newport Beach.Lifeguards, John and I go through the entire history as well as some of his own personal stories. I hope you enjoy this episode, and thanks as always for listening. 00:00 Introduction to John Carpenter and His Lifeguard Career01:02 John's Early Lifeguard Experiences and Inspirations02:58 The Humbling First Tryout04:37 Overcoming Challenges and Proving Himself11:08 The Evolution of the YEP Program14:11 History of Newport Beach Lifeguard Service25:14 Early Lifeguard Training and Equipment Innovations33:57 Mechanization and Modernization of Lifeguard Services43:13 Essential Gear for Jetty Rescues43:59 Navigating Dangerous Rock Areas44:27 Challenges of Lifeguarding Near Rocks46:11 Modern Lifeguard Training and Techniques47:19 Historical Lifeguard Innovations49:32 Helicopter Rescues and Training57:30 Early Lifeguarding Days and Equipment01:03:56 Surfboard Licenses and Blackball Flags01:12:31 Project Wipe Out and Preventative Measures01:22:30 A Close Call and a Successful Rescue01:22:56 The Importance of Beach Education01:23:51 A Frightening Encounter with Negligent Parents01:25:55 The Dangers of Sand Entrapment01:27:00 A Lifeguard's Lifelong Vigilance01:34:00 Reflecting on a Lifeguard Career01:38:53 The Legacy of Lifeguarding01:51:33 Advice for New GuardsLink To John's Powerpoint:https://1drv.ms/p/c/2e013de102312bc0/ETs8_kjKnaZIvNHhGHmFv2IBpAcsXO7Z58nHd6be630Bqw?e=dsRP7bPresented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Subscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Host, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Welcome to this episode of The Lifeguard Project Podcast, where today I interview Mike Martino. Mike is a California State Parks lifeguard who started as a seasonal and throughout his career, worked his way up all the way to the aquatic specialist or chief lifeguard of California State Parks. Not only is he a lifeguard for life, but he also has become quite a lifeguard historian and represent some of the early lifeguard pioneers who made their way up in the Sonoma coastline in the north of California.The Sonoma coastline is what we focus on today and talk about some of those early challenges faced by the guards who worked up there. Mike shares with us some pretty impactful stories, both personal and professional, and we walk through what it really means to be a lifeguard. Thanks as always for listening.00:00 Welcome to The Lifeguard Project Podcast01:25 Mike Martino's Path to Lifeguarding04:04 First Impressions of the Sonoma Coastline06:05 Challenges and Responsibilities of Lifeguarding the Sonoma Coast09:56 Community Perception and Lifeguard Interactions15:23 The Reality of Lifeguard Work and Prevention25:40 Abalone Diving and Lifeguard Experiences31:00 Critical Rescues and Lifeguard Reflections42:26 The Unseen Skills of Lifeguards43:11 The Edge of Life and Death45:27 Northern vs. Southern California Lifeguarding48:06 The Challenges of Lifeguarding in Remote Areas49:27 The Importance of Physical Activity in Managing Trauma50:20 The Evolution of Lifeguard Support Programs56:10 The Impact of Junior Lifeguard Programs01:00:56 The Value of Lifeguard Services01:06:37 The Lifeguard Community and Legacy01:21:13 Final ThoughtsLinks to Mike's Books on Amazon:https://www.amazon.com/Lifeguards-Diego-County-Images-America/dp/073855586X/ref=sr_1_4https://www.amazon.com/Help-San-Diego-Lifeguards-Rescue/dp/1941384390/ref=sr_1_3Presented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Subscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Host, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Welcome to this episode of the Lifeguard Project Podcast, where I interviewed David Rodriguez. David is one of the early founders of Watchtower, a digital command center for Lifeguards. Watchtower is a mobile platform that's tailored to every agency's needs as far as rescue's, data, end of your reports, and a lot of other techy kind of stuff.We won't get into the details here. I'll let David do the explaining in this episode. However, if you haven't seen Watchtower heard about it, it's definitely coming down the line. Today we talk about David's career and how the idea got started, and we also talk about where the future of technology in lifeguarding could put us.00:00 Welcome to the Show!00:43 Meet David Rodriguez02:11 The Birth of Watchtower05:27 Challenges and Development of Watchtower09:21 Expanding Watchtower's Capabilities14:44 Standardizing Lifeguard Data Collection28:35 Public Safety and Real-Time Data with Watchtower39:56 Innovative Safety Messaging Ideas42:23 Challenges and Solutions in Public Engagement47:15 Data Collection and Privacy Concerns50:27 Future of Lifeguard Technology57:03 Integrating Historical Data01:05:29 Final ThoughtsDavid's Links:Website: https://www.yourwatchtower.com/Public beach safety information: https://safebeachday.com/YouTube: https://youtu.be/mwjm_CnHP4QPresented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Subscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Host, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Kalia Chalom is a 2nd year San Diego City Lifeguard. She submitted this essay to The Lifeguard Project and I encouraged her to record her essay "More Than a Summer Job" because it is so powerful. It encapsulates an inspirational take on the lifeguard culture and simplifies the lifeguard condition. Listen along as she reads her very own words which tread softly but strike deep chords about what it means to be a lifeguard. Goosebumps and tears incoming.You can find the essay along with more of her writing here:https://substack.com/@kaliaskyhttps://substack.com/inbox/post/166609955?utm_medium=iosHave a submission you think can make the cut? Contact us to be featured on the podcast!By lifeguards, for life.Thanks for listening!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Spencer Pirdy grew up in Newport Beach, CA and was a Newport Beach lifeguard. Spencer met Ben Carlson working with the Newport Beach Lifeguards and shares how he became one of his early influences around lifeguarding, along with witnessing his older brother Travis Pirdy making rescues.On top of being a professional surfer and just an all-around good guy, Spencer sits on the board of the Ben Carlson Foundation. Spencer organizes the Ben Carson memorial paddle, which is a 30 mile paddle him to raise funds for the Ben Carlson Foundation, which goes from Catalina island to Newport Beach. The paddle has been going strong for the last 10 years and last year, raised over a quarter of $1 million dollars.Spencer has become integrated in communities like Puerto Escondido where he not only surfs huge waves, but leads the foundation in giving back to provide water safety.Finally we discuss the $5 challenge to get EVERY SINGLE LIFEGUARD to donate just five dollars on behalf of the BEN DID GO 10.0 Paddle as a testament to the interconnectedness of lifeguards. Please do so, and share with the next lifeguard. This is not a drill!https://www.mightycause.com/team/Thelifeguardproject00:00 Welcome to The Lifeguard Project Podcast00:47 Spencer's Early Life and Lifeguarding Influences01:17 Memorable Childhood Water Experiences03:48 Junior Lifeguards and Family Influence08:33 The Ben Carlson Memorial Paddle Challenge11:11 First Lifeguarding Experiences and Meeting Ben Carlson14:04 Returning to Lifeguard Training at 3825:58 The Impact of Ben Carlson's Legacy36:02 Reflecting on Ben Carlson's Legacy39:49 The Ben Carlson Memorial Paddle48:15 International Lifeguard Agency Outreach50:53 The Importance of Lifeguard Training56:10 Final ThoughtsSpencer's Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/spencestagramin/Presented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Subscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Host, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Welcome to this episode of The Lifeguard Project Podcast, where today we interview Dr. Andrew Schmidt. Dr. Schmidt started as a junior lifeguard and progressed through the professional lifeguard ranks at Jacksonville Beach, Florida. He currently serves as an assistant professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Florida College of Medicine Jacksonville.He's a medical director of Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue, deputy Medical Director of University of Florida Health's Trauma one Flight program, and co-founder of Lifeguards Without Borders, a nonprofit dedicated to international drowning prevention. He's also a board member of the Surfers Medical Association and a lead instructor with Surfing Medicine International.Dr. Schmidt has over a decade of experience on the front lines of emergency care and water safety. He has also authored key drowning treatment guidelines and helped shape national and international policy and trained lifeguards, medics and physicians around the world. From academic research to ocean rescue operation, he brings a spectrum of unique experience, making him a well-respected professional at the intersection of medicine, rescue, and public health.In this episode, we explore the medical and physiological realities of drowning along with some of its core principles. We'll go into the crucial role that lifeguards and pre-hospital responders have, and how cohesive emergency care protocols can be the difference in these life-saving measures. We'll also dig deep into the importance of education, prevention, and public policy.We'll take you through the process and specific treatment considerations of drowning from the rescue phase with lifeguards on the beach to the back of the ambulance, into the emergency room, and all the way to the ICU. So stay tuned and enjoy the conversation. And thanks as always for supporting the Lifeguard project.00:00 Introduction to Dr. Andrew Schmidt02:38 Dr. Schmidt's Lifeguard Journey04:38 Balancing Medicine and Lifeguarding06:52 Impact of Baywatch on Lifeguarding12:08 The Critical Role of Lifeguards in Drowning Prevention21:45 Challenges in Drowning Data Collection34:33 Hypoxia in Drowning36:39 Reversing Hypoxia38:25 Challenges in Drowning Protocols56:11 The Role of Surfers in Rescue Operations01:07:17 Challenges of Public Access Buoy Programs01:08:29 Training and Real-Life Rescue Simulations01:10:19 Respect and Training for Lifeguards01:12:44 Funding and Support for Lifeguard Programs01:18:30 Drowning Research and Public Awareness01:23:27 Medical Protocols and Pre-Hospital Care01:34:30 Final ThoughtsAndrews Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@jaxems/videosDrowning Facts Website:https://www.notoutofthewater.com/Andrew's Site:https://surfemergency.com/Presented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Watch the Podcast on YouTube Here:https://youtu.be/kM2_7KuS6rUSubscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Host, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/#TheLifeguardProjectPodcast #BenCarlsonFoundation #LifeguardPodcastSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Debbie was one of the first women to step into a lifeguard tower along the Camp Pendleton coast in 1978 and became the first female permanent Peace Officer Lifeguard with California State Parks.Debbie has served as a leader, a mentor, an international lifeguard, and a training instructor. But lifeguarding wasn't just a job for her, Debbie's husband and two kids also followed in her footsteps. Guarding the beaches along many spots in the California coastline. Now, Debbie is writing a book to shine a light on the overlooked stories of the early women lifeguards, or as we learn in this episode, lifeguards. Debbie and I discuss a wide variety of concepts regarding early lessons learned, stereotypes, and how it all ties back to the common experience amongst lifeguards in general, regardless of gender.Although we can't share about the book she's writing yet, I can say that I did get to listen to Debbie read the first chapter, which really set the stage for an exciting journey when we do get to reveal it sometime in the future. So stay tuned and enjoy the conversation, and thanks as always for supporting the Lifeguard Project.00:00 Introduction to Debbie Friedman02:06 Debbie's Early Life and Swimming Journey04:49 First Encounters with Lifeguarding07:39 Challenges and Stereotypes in Lifeguarding12:09 Gender and Language in Lifeguarding17:49 Debbie's Lifeguard Tryout Experience19:46 The First Women Lifeguards22:51 Early Challenges and Support Systems42:42 Proving Strength and Capability47:57 Stereotypes in Lifeguarding50:37 The Story of Janet Wardell54:44 Contrasting Experiences: Janet and Carlin58:30 The Importance of Mentorship01:04:23 Personal Reflections and Family Legacy01:17:18 The Last Rescue and Lifeguard Strength01:26:25 Lifeguarding Lessons and Career ReflectionsPresented by The Ben Carlson Foundation:https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/Watch the Podcast on YouTube Here:https://youtu.be/lK5ASWlsfZwSubscribe to the Podcast Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54thttps://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/https://thelifeguardproject.org/Debbie Friedman’s Story:https://thelifeguardproject.org/stories/women-in-lifeguardingHost, Drasko Bogdanovic:https://www.bogdogphoto.com/https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/#TheLifeguardProjectPodcast #BenCarlsonFoundation #LifeguardPodcastSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

This mini session provides a brief introduction to the California Water Safety Strategy and focuses on a panel discussion from the CA Water Safety Summit in 2025 about the importance of media in transferring ideas of public safety and drowning prevention. We are all responsible in elevating the standard of lifeguard and safety messaging as we share media and raise the bar in how we transfer ideas and represent ourselves.Thanks for listening!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Zoe Chait is a California State Parks Lifeguard working in Half Moon Bay, CA. Zoe started as a junior lifeguard and has progressed to lifeguarding professionally along with traveling the world chasing waves and competing. At 18 years old and just a few years of Lifeguard experience under her belt she’s able to offer a very unique perspective on life. Zoe has faced many unique challenges working in Half Moon Bay which is characterized by approximately 50 miles of rocky coastline, dangerous waves and beaches, with minimal resources. It is also home to Mavericks, which happens to be her home surf break. Zoe is currently chasing a professional surfing career in big waves and (as she refers to it) "small waves too".Zoe and I discuss her unique perspective from these two worlds, how they are interconnected, and what she thinks about lifeguarding. Zoe also had the opportunity to perform unique off-duty rescues in her hometown which showcase a tight knit community and reflect a global sense of helping others as a lifeguard.Thank you as always for listening!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Welcome to the first "Expression Session" a Lifeguard Project mini podcast "session" designed for bite sized lifeguard topics and interesting information to fit into your day. We will be featuring all sorts of lifeguard topics and ideas as well as micro-learnings, and much more! Have an idea? Reach out!Topic: Tips on applying for The Ben Carlson Scholarship.This scholarship is for 3 open water lifeguards who will each be awarded $20,000 to help pay for college! Any lifeguard agency in the world is eligible.https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/scholarshipDeadline to apply Feb 1, 2025!Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have past or present participation in a junior lifeguard program or past or present employment as an open water lifeguard (river, lake, ocean). Pool lifeguarding and/or certification are not considered. In order to apply, candidates need to attend a four-year post-secondary school during the 2025/2026 academic year as a full-time undergraduate student pursuing their first undergraduate degree. This scholarship will not be awarded to students attending community college or trade schools, or for graduate education. Students will be required to submit proof of admission, and registration or a course schedule that shows adequate units enrolled prior to disbursement of funds. Applicants must be a current high school senior or undergraduate student. Students continuing or applying to graduate schools will not be considered. Applicants must demonstrate a strong work ethic, independence, academic rigor and promise, athleticism, and service to the community. High School students must have a minimum unweighted 3.2 GPA, and undergraduate students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be taking a full-time academic course load. Transcripts will be required for all scholarship finalists. Please report accurately on your application. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Ed Vodrazka (Eddie V) is a "lifeguard for life" with an extraordinary 47-year career. Born to immigrant parents in Canada, he became an ocean lifeguard in 1976 and went on to make history as the first paid foreign lifeguard in New Zealand in 1979. Ed’s career spans iconic roles, from California State Lifeguard to a permanent Peace Officer Lifeguard at San Diego’s coast, to working with LA County on Malibu and Zuma beaches. Along the way, he became a Registered Nurse, specializing in cardiology, and taught lifeguard training across the state for over 25 years. He’s personally trained over 6,000 lifeguards and was honored as “Educator of the Year” by California EMSA in 2017.A passionate advocate for lifeguard culture and education, Ed has written two influential books about stories and recollections throughout his career that unlock a unique glimpse into lifeguard culture, Stories from Sea Level and One Guard Out. His grassroots style and inspirational messaging have made him a sought-after speaker and trainer. Ed is also a family man, married to Jennifer, with two children, Jade, a State Lifeguard and nursing student, and Charlie, a high school student interested in film editing.Today, Ed's stories take us through an unexpected start in lifeguarding, the golden years of lifeguarding in the 70's, talks about life and death, as well as some sneak peaks into his two books.Thank you for listening!Stories From Sea Level:https://www.amazon.com/Stories-Sea-Level-Adventures-Californias/dp/B08ZBPK834One Guard Out:https://www.amazon.com/One-Guard-Out-Lifeguards-Californias/dp/B0B4SJH6DHSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Alex began his lifeguarding career after playing water polo at the University of the Pacific. Inspired by his brother, a California Parks lifeguard in Santa Cruz, Alex started working as a lifeguard in Santa Cruz in 2013. He quickly became immersed in the ocean community as a lifeguard, surfer, and body surfer, eventually rising to a supervisor role.In March 2017, Alex transferred to North County San Diego. On August 17, 2017, while body surfing during a physical training break, he struck a sandbar and was knocked unconscious. When he regained consciousness, Alex experienced one of the most profound moments of his life—an intimate firsthand perspective of drowning, being rescued by bystanders, and ultimately, by his fellow lifeguards.After being treated for a severe spinal injury, Alex embarked on a long and challenging recovery. He learned to walk again and has since made remarkable strides both personally and professionally. Today, Alex continues to inspire others with his story of resilience, recovery, and the powerful lessons he's learned about life, death, and the importance of training for emergencies.Join us as Alex shares his incredible journey and the profound impact his rescuers had on his recovery. This is a powerful story of courage, determination, and the life-saving importance of being prepared to act when a rescue is needed.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

Chief Scott Haberle serves as the Fire Chief for the City of Huntington Beach and has a strong track record of effective citywide collaboration resulting in enhanced emergency service delivery and leadership development. His 32-year fire service career has given him a wide variety of experience.Today, Chief Haberle discusses his take on leadership throughout EMS, Fire, and how it all fits into lifeguarding. Frankly speaking this conversation can benefit anyone, in any rank, of any field, as Chief Haberle expands the subject of leadership which can be applied throughout all service based professions.What I find to be unique about Chief Haberle is that he has worked his way through the ranks as Firefighter, Fire Inspector/Fire Investigator, Paramedic, Fire Captain, Fire Battalion Chief/Fire Marshal and Deputy Fire Chief for the city of Monterey Park. He even put his time in as a pool lifeguard. Now he is ultimately responsible for the Huntington Beach Marine Safety Division as an integral part of the Fire Department.He holds an associate degree from Rio Hondo College; a bachelor’s degree from California State University Long Beach; a master’s degree in public administration from University of La Verne; and the Executive Fire Officer certification from the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland.Thank you for listening!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations