Inside EMS

Ever been told to “cut the war stories” in EMS? Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson are here to push back. This week’s episode of the Inside EMS podcast dives into the vital role storytelling plays in shaping EMS culture, training, leadership and even public perception. With their signature mix of humor and heart, they explore how the right story — told the right way — can teach more than any protocol ever will. From instructor pitfalls to leadership mistakes, they share personal wins and failures that built their character — and could build yours too. You’ll also get 8 rock-solid tips on how to be a better storyteller in the field, in the classroom or at the next crew dinner. Spoiler: It’s not about theatrics; it’s about authenticity, vulnerability, knowing when to pause ... and when to whisper. Top quotes “Never tell a story without a point. Never make a point without a story.” “The burned hand teaches best.” “Be authentic. Share your wins. Talk about your mistakes.” 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 the Inside EMS podcast, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dive headfirst into one of paramedic's most anxiety-inducing scenarios: the pediatric airway. Despite decades of advancement, pediatric codes still strike fear into the hearts of even the most seasoned medics. So why hasn’t this gotten any easier? Drawing on their own experience (plus a few nods to Dr. Peter Antevy), the duo emphasize the urgent need for high-fidelity simulation training, ongoing QA and competency-based training. This episode’s packed with insights, strong opinions and a healthy dose of tough love for EMS systems that continue to send underprepared crews into high-stakes situations. If you’ve ever broken into a cold sweat over a pediatric call, this episode is for you. Memorable quotes "When a mother hands you a 3-month-old in cardiac arrest, that’s not the time to figure out you’re uncomfortable." — Chris Cebollero “If you want the medic to intubate kids, you need cadaver labs, you need high fidelity simulation. You need to practice and you need to QA that practice. Most systems just can't provide that and without regular exposure, intubation becomes unsafe. And that's why I'd argue if you can't maintain your competency, you shouldn't carry the skill.” — Chris Cebollero “Kids aren't little adults. They do have more challenges. They do have bigger tongues. They do have floppier epiglottis, they do have smaller airways.” — Chris Cebollero Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share feedback and suggest future guests. 

As artificial intelligence sweeps across industries, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson are asking the big question: Is EMS ready? In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, the duo gets into the weeds of how AI could reshape the field, from charting and documentation, to predictive deployment and real-time clinical prompts. They dig into practical use cases, like auto-generating patient care reports from spoken narratives, using smart speakers for on-the-fly drug dosages and deploying AI in dispatch triage. But they’re not AI cheerleaders; both caution against overreliance, false confidence and the risk of replacing critical thinking with shortcuts. It’s a spirited, funny and forward-looking conversation about how EMS can lead, not lag, in adopting this rapidly evolving tech. Because one thing’s clear: AI isn’t coming — it’s already here. Memorable quotes “I think the big issue that people have with AI is that they fear it’s gonna start doing our thinking for us rather than help us with everyday tasks. And to me, that’s a legitimate fear.” —Kelly Grayson “When we open this door of where AI can touch EMS directly, I think there’s a lot of places this can go.” —Chris Cebollero “I learned long ago that one of the tricks to the choreography of a smooth call is to think out loud and to talk, talk, talk your way through everything that you do. It’s interesting thinking about narrating that for the purpose ofan AI client to write your chart as you go.” —Kelly Grayson Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share feedback or suggest future guests!

This week on the Inside EMS podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson shine a spotlight on the kidneys and their impact on patient outcomes. What starts as a chat about chronic kidney stones quickly dives into a sharp, clinical breakdown of renal anatomy, physiology and the far-reaching consequences of kidney dysfunction in EMS care. Chris and Kelly unpack the kidneys’ role in fluid balance, blood pressure regulation and acid-base stability, including how the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) system can either save a patient … or make things worse. They outline the key types of acute kidney injury (pre-renal, intrinsic, post-renal), tie them back to underlying anatomy, and explain why perfusion matters long before labs confirm failure. With field-focused tips on what to ask (yes, diaper counts matter), what to look for and how to manage critical complications, this episode gives medics the tools to recognize renal red flags early — and act fast. Additional resources: Acute kidney injury assessment and treatment The science behind shock: Why providers must understand the RAAS Caring for the dialysis patient One for the Road: Is this a kidney stone? Memorable quotes “In EMS, we don't really pay attention to the functioning of the kidneys until everything goes south.” “They're not lying when they say the kidneys are the windows to the viscera.” “Kidney problems don't happen in isolation.” Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share feedback or suggest guests for a future episode. 

This week on the Inside EMS Podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dive deep into the What Paramedics Want in 2025 industry report — and let’s just say, it’s not all sunshine and stable shifts. The report, created in partnership with Fitch & Associates and sponsored by Pulsara, lays bare the hard truths: burnout is at an all-time high, staffing gaps are holding steady at crisis levels and confidence in leadership is lukewarm at best. Chris and Kelly get real as they discuss some of the shocking stats — such as, only 59% of agencies report having enough staff to answer 911 calls, and 76% of respondents now cite burnout as a critical issue. But this isn’t just about fatigue; it’s about leadership gaps, lack of support and workplaces that are driving out even the most seasoned medics. From the “mandatory overtime spiral” to why communication isn’t just nice — it’s a necessity — this episode tackles how broken systems are eroding morale and what leaders can (and must) do to change course. You’ll hear why stay interviews matter more than exit interviews, how marijuana use is creeping up as a stress escape, and the simple steps agencies can take to rebuild trust and retention. Memorable quotes “If one-quarter of your work workforce says ‘we don't enjoy our jobs anymore’ and ‘we don't enjoy working for you anymore,’ you got a hell of a problem on your hands.” — Kelly Grayson “This isn't just burnout because of the things we're seeing.  This is because of staffing shortages. This is because of lack of funding. This is because of working overtime. This is because agencies are mandating overtime. And that's gonna lead to burnout.” — Chris Cebollero “What we have is a shortage of people who are willing to work for chump change and horrible working conditions.” — Kelly Grayson Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share your feedback and suggest future guests.

You’ve just been promoted — congrats, right? Not so fast. In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson get real about what it actually means to step into a leadership role. Spoiler alert: it's not just a new title and a gold badge. It’s a complete shift in responsibility, from caring for patients to caring for your people. Together, they break down how new leaders often swing too far: either trying to be everyone’s buddy or going full micromanager. They talk servant leadership, earning trust daily, the power of listening and what “protecting your people from bad decisions above” really looks like. If you're stepping into a new role — or trying to recover from a rocky start — this episode is packed with hard truths, some laughs and solid advice from two guys who’ve lived it. Memorable quotes “Ask a lot of questions and give your subordinates some ownership over how decisions are made. They didn't get stupid overnight when you got a white shirt. They're still the good people they were before.” — Kelly Grayson “Leadership isn't a title, it's not a reward, it's a responsibility.  It’s a verb, not a noun, and you have to be able to show your leadership every day.” — Chris Cebollero “Leadership's not about perfection. It's about showing up every day and trying to get better. It's being present in the moment. You show up for your people, you help them be their very best, and you never stop learning how to lead better.” — Kelly Grayson Rate & review Inside EMS 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 the Inside EMS podcast, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson are staying in the same hotel, but definitely not on the same page. The topic? Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) — is it the future of EMS, or just another flashy tool with little impact in the field?  Chris opens the discussion with skepticism, calling POCUS a “ridiculous” tool that adds no value to his prehospital patient care. Kelly fires back with a defense of POCUS as a powerful, fast and non-invasive tool that can enhance clinical decision-making — if used right.  It’s a spirited back-and-forth loaded with clinical scenarios, sarcasm and a lot of “whatever, man.” Whether you’re team “POCUS is progress” or “scan and stall,” this episode will get you thinking.  Memorable quotes  “Ultrasound gives you another layer of decision-making support.”  “Point of care ultrasound gives me no ability to change the way I'm treating the patient.”  “It never is a bad thing to know more about the patient.”  Rate & review Inside EMS 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 the Inside EMS podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson tackle one of the most nerve-wracking scenarios in EMS: the pediatric respiratory emergency. From the moment you see a gasping toddler in mom’s arms, you know this is a make-or-break call — and for many providers, it’s the one that keeps them up at night. Chris kicks things off with a haunting real-life scenario that sets the stage for an in-depth conversation on how to recognize and respond to pediatric respiratory distress. Kelly, a seasoned PALS instructor with a knack for demystifying pediatrics, offers practical advice on assessing sick kids using tools like the Pediatric Assessment Triangle, reading subtle signs like head bobbing or limp limbs, and why the good ol’ basics — like BVM ventilation and suction — save lives. From clinical pearls to mindset resets, this episode is a must-listen if you want to face your pediatric fears and come out stronger. Memorable quotes “If we know that’s a weakness for our employees, what are we doing to help them make it a strength?” “You bring calm to the chaos. You bring presence to the panic. You bring hope to the people who are living their worst moment.” “This is not about just about a clinical challenge; but it’s a fear of getting something wrong.” Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share your feedback. 

When conflict flares up in your organization, do you fuel the fire or douse it with empathy? In this week’s episode of the Inside EMS podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson break down how to handle interpersonal drama and tough conversations like a leader — with calm, clarity and tactical empathy. Tactical empathy isn’t about being soft; it’s about being smart. It’s the intentional art of listening, labeling emotions and showing people they’re seen — without letting things spiral into chaos or resentment. Drawing from leadership lessons, clinical psychology and their own missteps, Chris and Kelly lay out 5 solid tools you can start using immediately, from mirroring and eye contact, to setting respectful boundaries. Whether you’re managing late shift changes, dealing with crew conflict or just trying to keep morale afloat, this is an episode that gives you actionable steps — not just leadership fluff. Oh, and if you think “tactical” doesn’t belong in the same sentence as “feelings,” they’re here to prove you wrong. Memorable quotes “Conflict is part of EMS. You cannot avoid it.” — Kelly Grayson “Empathy’s not a rescue mission. It’s a recognition moment.” — Kelly Grayson “The trick isn't avoiding conflict. It's learning how to handle it without crushing morale, without leaving the other side, or having one or both sides feeling that you're showing favorites or you're blind to their concerns.” — Kelly Grayson 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, Chris Cebollero unpacks what it really means to be a field training officer and, spoiler alert: it’s not just about ticking boxes or passing protocols. From the importance of professional modeling and emotional intelligence to the dangers of unchecked cynicism among senior field staff, Chris lays out why FTOs must be seen — and supported — as true leaders. He shares his own experiences as a clinical director, discusses how poor habits often trace back to lackluster FTO mentorship, and offers a full blueprint for building an FTO program that not only trains but transforms. This isn’t about seniority; it’s about strategy. You’ll learn why ongoing training, peer-reviewed reappointments and subject matter ownership turn FTOs into the backbone of your EMS culture. Whether you’re an FTO, want to become one or oversee the program, this is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed. Memorable quotes “My FTOs were gatekeepers to the organization, and it was important for them to set the standard of what that was going to look like.” “Don't assign the title and hope for the best. Right? Develop the role into a leadership position that inspires people daily.” “You can't build a strong workforce if your trainers aren't trained themselves.” 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.

When most people see red tape, they stop. Darin Johnson saw an opportunity. In this episode of Inside EMS, Chris and Kelly welcome Darin — a paramedic, operations supervisor and now urgent care owner — to break down how he helped spearhead Utah’s House Bill 14. The goal? Allow paramedics to practice to their full scope outside of traditional EMS settings. What started as a frustrating moment working in mobile IV therapy spiraled into a full-on legislative effort that took over 3 years to realize. And guess what? It passed. But Darin didn’t stop there. He then launched Mod Doc, a fusion-style urgent and primary care center in Draper, Utah, run with a team of paramedics, flight nurses and a nurse practitioner. The mission? Community-centered care that blends traditional and holistic approaches — and gives paramedics a real seat at the table. This episode is a playbook for anyone ready to stop asking “Why not?” and start saying, “Watch this.” Top quotes from Darin Johnson “I'm just trying to create fusion medicine. Kind of like when you go to a restaurant and you get fusion food. I just want to bring all the best parts of medicine together and provide the best care for people so they can have good quality of life.” “Paramedics should be expanding their scope of practice. We really should be utilizing our ability to operate in remote environments and in homes and everywhere else.” “I had a moment where I just stopped and went, ‘Wait, huh? You'll let me do all these things if I'm working for an EMS agency, but if I have all the same things in place working private than I can't do that.’ And it started this whole journey of wanting to understand why paramedics weren't recognized for their scope of practice in the private setting.” 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.

It’s EMS Week wrap-up time, and Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson are back in classic form in this episode of the Inside EMS podcast. From jokes about Sloppy Joe leftovers from Hospital Week to heartfelt gratitude for the medics still grinding it out day after day, this episode hits all the notes. Chris and Kelly talk about why EMS Week still matters; more than just stickers and slogans, it’s about recognizing the quiet pride, the commitment and the transformation that EMS professionals bring to their communities every single day. The hosts challenge listeners to advocate for the profession, share their stories, and — most importantly — support one another. Whether you’re still running lights and sirens or mentoring the next generation, this one’s for you. Memorable quotes “You may be in EMS if you finish a trauma report while chewing beef jerky at 3 a.m.” — Kelly Grayson  ”We need to treat EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers and supervisors with respect and do things for them 51 weeks of the year, and then take EMS Week off.” — Kelly Grayson “This isn’t a flashy job, it’s not always recognized ... but it’s real. And it gets in your blood.” — Chris Cebollero “Keep on being the rumpled angels of healthcare.” — Kelly Grayson 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.

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.

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

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.