RideAlong: EMT School

Environmental emergencies don’t stop at heat and cold — sometimes the real danger comes from water, altitude, and the creatures around us. In this episode, we dive into drowning, diving injuries, high-altitude illness, and bites and stings. We break down what’s actually happening in the body, what EMTs should be looking for, and how to manage these situations in the field — all while sharing real-world experiences (and a few mistakes) along the way.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro & Life After EMT School (real-world pressure hits different)11:00 – Episode Overview: Environmental Emergencies Pt. 215:45 – Medical Term of the Week: Acute Mountain Sickness32:30 – Water-Related Emergencies & Drowning53:25 – Diving Accidents & Scuba Complications (Air Embolism, Decompression Sickness)1:26:30 – High-Altitude Emergencies (HAPE & HACE)1:40:00 – Bites, Stings, and Envenomation2:05:00 – Tools of the Trade: Flashlights2:16:30 – Student Tip: NREMT-Style Questions--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttps://www.RideAlongEMTSchool.com

EMS 20/20 Simulcast - Split the PartyThis one’s different—and honestly, one of the most fun (and chaotic) things we’ve ever done.The RideAlong crew teamed up with EMS 20/20 for a special simulcast episode where EMS meets Dungeons & Dragons. Guided by Chris and Spencer, we were dropped into a high-stakes, dice-driven scenario that quickly spiraled into full-blown EMS chaos.What started as a straightforward cardiac arrest turned into a two-patient nightmare, tough decision-making, and the kind of curveballs you only get in real EMS—or a tabletop scenario run by EMS 20/20.This episode is a mix of education, improvisation, and a lot of laughs… but underneath it all is a real look at teamwork, scene management, and thinking under pressure when everything goes sideways.Huge thanks to EMS 20/20 for having us on—go give them a follow and check out their show.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – RideAlong intro + setup for the collab00:00:32 – Episode concept: EMS scenario meets D&D-style gameplay00:08:04 – EMS 20/20 intro + scenario rules explained00:14:14 – Dispatch: 70 y/o male, AMS, difficulty breathing00:17:40 – Update: CPR instructions in progress00:22:02 – Arrival on scene + access problem (locked house)00:30:50 – Patient contact: CPR in progress, chaotic scene00:37:24 – Additional responders arrive (team expands)00:44:04 – Second patient identified (spouse deteriorating)00:56:00 – Cardiac arrest management continues (ALS pending)01:07:24 – ALS arrives, dual-patient management begins01:18:21 – STEMI identified → flight activated01:35:44 – Air medical arrival + patient transfer01:42:07 – Cardiac arrest declines to asystole01:46:09 – Decision point: termination of resuscitation01:52:11 – Scenario breakdown + lessons learned02:11:48 – Key takeaway: BLS can (and should) activate flight when needed--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttps://www.RideAlongEMTSchool.com

Environmental emergencies can sneak up fast, and once the body starts losing its ability to regulate temperature, things can go downhill in a hurry. In this episode, we break down hot and cold emergencies, focusing on how the body responds to temperature extremes, what warning signs EMTs should watch for, and when simple exposure becomes a true medical emergency.Mike, Max, and Jonathan walk through active versus passive warming and cooling, the physiology behind hypothermia and hyperthermia, and how heat loss, dehydration, exposure, and poor decision-making can all stack together in the field. From frostbite and local cold injuries to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, this episode is all about recognizing problems early and treating temperature emergencies before they spiral.--------------------------------------Subscribe to the EMS20/20 Podcast!Get notified when our episode goes live.https://ems2020.com/--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00:00 – Intro, episode setup, and EMS 20/20 guest appearance discussion00:11:26 – Medical Term of the Week: Active and Passive Rewarming and Cooling00:26:13 – Body temperature regulation and homeostasis overview00:42:00 – Hypothermia: causes, stages, and treatment priorities01:20:05 – Local cold injuries, frostbite, and field care01:32:09 – Heat emergencies: heat exhaustion and heat stroke01:51:20 – Tools of the Trade: Mylar Blankets02:01:30 – Student Tip of the Week: Test Prep with Jonathan02:13:29 – Wrap-up and closing thoughts--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttps://www.RideAlongEMTSchool.com

Multisystem trauma patients present one of the biggest challenges in prehospital care — multiple injuries, competing priorities, and the constant risk of rapid deterioration. In this episode, we break down how EMTs identify high-risk trauma patients using mechanism of injury, physiologic findings, anatomic criteria, and special patient considerations, along with how trauma scoring and transport decisions fit into the bigger picture.Mike, Max, and Jonathan walk through how trauma systems actually work in the field, why older adults and pediatric patients can complicate assessment, and how providers have to balance rapid intervention with getting the patient to the right destination. When everything is happening at once, structure matters.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00:00 – Intro, catching up, and distracted driving discussion00:20:47 – Medical Term of the Week: Trauma Score00:35:07 – What multisystem trauma is and why it matters00:43:15 – Physiologic criteria for severe trauma00:45:45 – Anatomic criteria and major injury patterns00:51:06 – Mechanism of injury and predicting hidden trauma00:57:34 – Special patient populations and considerations01:05:49 – Managing the multisystem trauma patient01:42:31 – Tools of the Trade: Oxygen Tanks and Regulators02:04:25 – Student Tip of the Week: Test Prep with Jonathan02:18:04 – Wrap-up and closing thoughts--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Chest and abdominal trauma can rapidly become life-threatening, even when injuries aren’t immediately obvious. In this episode, we break down blunt and penetrating trauma affecting the thoracic and abdominal cavities, focusing on injuries that can compromise breathing, circulation, and major organ function.We discuss pneumothorax, hemothorax, flail chest, internal bleeding, and solid organ injuries, along with how mechanisms of injury help guide suspicion for hidden complications. Understanding how the lungs, heart, diaphragm, liver, spleen, and major blood vessels can be affected allows EMTs to recognize critical findings early and prioritize rapid transport.Trauma assessment is about pattern recognition, reassessment, and knowing when something doesn’t look right — even if vital signs haven’t changed yet.--------------------------------------Visit our sponsor, SAM Medical!https://www.SAMMedical.com--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00:00 – Intro / episode setup00:07:01 – Sponsor Message: SAM Medical00:19:03 – Overview of chest trauma and respiratory compromise00:27:15 – Medical Term of the Week: Flail Chest00:29:29 – Anatomy and physiology of breathing and chest cavity00:50:16 – Mechanisms of injury: blunt vs penetrating trauma00:58:16 – Pain, breathing complications, and patient positioning01:43:03 – Tools of the Trade: Chest Seals / Occlusive Dressings (SAM Chest Seal)01:57:30 – Student Tip and Test Prep02:00:00 – Episode wrap-up--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

This is Spinal Snap (Neck and Spinal Trauma)Neck and spinal injuries can be subtle, devastating, and easy to miss — making them one of the highest-stakes assessments an EMT will perform. In this episode, we break down spinal anatomy, mechanisms of injury, red flags for spinal cord involvement, and when spinal motion restriction is appropriate. We also discuss how spinal cord injuries can affect breathing, circulation, sensation, and long-term function, plus how neurogenic shock changes the way the body responds to trauma.Understanding how and why spinal injuries occur helps you make better decisions in the field and avoid causing additional harm during assessment, movement, and transport.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00:00 – Intro / episode setup00:21:05 – Lead-in to spinal motion restriction discussion00:21:49 – Medical Term of the Week: Neurogenic Shock00:32:37 – Anatomy of the spine (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacrum)00:37:24 – Vulnerability of the neck and mechanism of injury concepts01:11:13 – BLS assessment considerations and spinal motion restriction decision-making01:52:28 – Student Tip and Test Prep01:53:41 – Episode wrap-up--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Head injuries can change everything in an instant. In this episode, we break down head and skull trauma, including traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, and why bleeding or swelling inside the skull can quickly become life-threatening.Mike, Max, and Jonathon discuss mechanisms of injury, signs of increased intracranial pressure, and the importance of identifying subtle neurological changes early. From coup-contrecoup injuries to recognizing deteriorating mental status, this episode emphasizes assessment priorities that help prevent secondary brain injury.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro, episode setup, and overview of head trauma28:35 – Medical Term of the Week: Cushing’s Triad37:20 – Anatomy review: skull, brain, and protective structures55:10 – Mechanisms of injury and traumatic brain injury concepts01:18:40 – Skull fractures, bleeding, and intracranial pressure01:43:55 – Patient assessment priorities and reassessment01:56:20 – Tools of the Trade: Penlight for pupil assessment02:06:30 – Student Tip of the Week: Test Prep Questions--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Great tools don’t just show up in EMS — they’re built by people who understand the problems providers face in the field. In this episode, we sit down with Bob Waddell from SAM Medical to talk about the evolution of hemorrhage control, product design, and what it takes to create equipment that actually works when it matters most.We dive into the story behind SAM Medical, the development of tools like the SAM XT tourniquet and SAM splint, and how real-world feedback from EMS, military, and law enforcement continues to shape innovation. This conversation is all about bridging the gap between the classroom, the street, and the gear we trust to save lives.--------------------------------------Check out SAM Medicalhttps://www.SAMmedical.comReach out to Bob!bob.waddell@sammedical.com--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro and guest introduction08:45 – Bob Waddell’s background and path into SAM Medical22:10 – The evolution of hemorrhage control and tourniquet design41:30 – SAM Medical products: SAM XT, SAM Splint, and innovation process01:05:20 – Real-world application and lessons from the field01:24:10 – Advice for new EMS providers and students01:36:40 – Closing thoughts and where to learn more--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Bones break. Joints dislocate. Ligaments stretch and tear. In this episode, Mike, Max, and Jonathan dive into musculoskeletal trauma, one of the most common injury categories EMS providers encounter. The crew breaks down the anatomy of the musculoskeletal system, the difference between fractures, sprains, strains, and dislocations, and how EMTs assess and stabilize extremity injuries in the field.Along the way, they explore compartment syndrome, the six P’s of extremity injury, traction splints, pelvic stabilization, and the real-world priorities of splinting without delaying lifesaving care.This episode also features a Tools of the Trade segment sponsored by SAM Medical, where the team looks at one of the most recognizable pieces of equipment in EMS: the SAM Splint — a simple but incredibly versatile tool used to immobilize fractures and stabilize injured limbs in the field.--------------------------------------Visit our sponsor, SAM Medical!https://www.SAMMedical.com--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 — Episode intro01:44 — Sponsor spotlight: SAM Medical07:43 — Catch-up and EMS stories from the field28:05 — Medical Term of the Week: The Six P’s30:09 — Compartment syndrome50:08 — Chapter discussion: Musculoskeletal Trauma01:25:12 — Assessment priorities, life threats, and splinting principles01:45:26 — Pelvic injuries and pelvic binders01:50:10 — Femur fractures and traction splints02:05:02 — Tools of the Trade: The SAM Splint02:15:22 — Student Tip of the Week: NREMT practice questions02:34:23 — Episode wrap-up--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Burn injuries are some of the most dramatic trauma patients EMS providers encounter — but the real danger often isn’t the burn itself. In this episode, we break down the different types of burns, how to assess burn severity, and why airway compromise, fluid loss, and infection risk make burn patients especially dangerous.Mike, Max, and Jonathan walk through thermal, chemical, and electrical burns, the difference between superficial and full-thickness injuries, and how tools like the Rule of Nines help providers quickly estimate burn severity in the field. From scene safety to cooling burns and recognizing when a patient needs rapid transport to a burn center, this episode focuses on the priorities that matter most during burn emergencies.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro, sponsor shoutouts, and episode setup16:35 – Overview of burn injuries and why they’re high risk28:10 – Medical Term of the Week: Rule of Nines44:20 – Types of burns: thermal, chemical, electrical, and radiation01:12:10 – Burn severity, airway risks, and complications01:37:25 – Tools of the Trade: Burn Sheets / Burn Blankets01:51:40 – Student Tip of the Week: Burn assessment basics--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Soft tissue injuries are some of the most common calls in EMS — and some of the easiest to underestimate. In this episode, we break down contusions, abrasions, lacerations, hematomas, crush injuries, and bleeding control, focusing on what’s happening beneath the surface and why even “minor” trauma can become serious if reassessment is ignored.Mike and Max walk through DCAP-BTLS, distraction injuries, shock risk, swelling, and the importance of repeated physical exams. The big takeaway: soft tissue trauma might not scream at you — but it can absolutely sneak up on you.--------------------------------------Check out our sponsor!!!www.MicroDotCS.com--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro, sponsor shoutout, and episode setup14:10 – Overview of soft tissue trauma and assessment priorities22:15 – Medical Term of the Week: DCAP-BTLS35:50 – Contusions, abrasions, lacerations, and bleeding control01:18:45 – Shock, internal bleeding concerns, and reassessment01:55:50 – Tools of the Trade: Cold Packs (Sponsored by microdot / Cambridge Sensor)01:57:00 – Student Tip of the Week: 5-Question NREMT Test Prep Quiz--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

In this special interview episode of the RideAlong: EMT School Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. John Croushorn, Emergency Medicine Physician, Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Compression Works, and co-inventor of the AAJT-S.Dr. Croushorn sits down with us to discuss the AAJT-S (Abdominal Aortic and Junctional Tourniquet – Stabilized) — what it is, why it was developed, and where it fits into the management of severe, life-threatening hemorrhage when standard extremity tourniquets aren’t enough. We break down junctional and truncal bleeding, device indications, physiologic effects, and the realities of deploying advanced hemorrhage control tools in high-stress environments.The conversation also explores how devices like the AAJT-S translate from military and tactical medicine into civilian EMS, the challenges of training and decision-making around low-frequency / high-consequence tools, and what EMTs and paramedics should understand about hemorrhage control beyond “tourniquet goes high and tight.”This episode is an honest, practical discussion about capability, limitations, and clinical judgment — and what it actually looks like when advanced bleeding control meets the real world.--------------------------------------Check out the AAJT-S from Compression Works!https://compressionworks.com/--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Introduction & welcoming Dr. Croushorn03:45 – Background in emergency medicine and device development08:30 – The problem of junctional and truncal hemorrhage14:00 – What the AAJT-S is and how it works21:00 – Indications, contraindications, and physiologic considerations29:30 – Civilian vs military use cases for junctional tourniquets38:00 – Training challenges with low-frequency, high-risk devices47:15 – Decision-making under pressure and hemorrhage prioritization56:00 – Where tools like the AAJT-S fit in modern EMS systems01:04:30 – Advice for EMTs encountering severe bleeding scenarios01:12:00 – Final thoughts on hemorrhage control and preparedness--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

The trauma block starts now.In this episode, we dive into one of the most time-critical topics in EMS: bleeding and shock. From arterial spurters to sneaky internal hemorrhage, we break down how blood loss kills, how shock develops, and what we can actually do about it in the field. We revisit the lethal trauma triad, talk tourniquets (including junctional applications), and walk through why “treat for shock” is more than just something instructors say on repeat.This episode is sponsored by Compression Works — makers of the AAJT-S, a device designed to control hemorrhage where traditional tourniquets can’t reach.If it’s red and leaving the body, we’re paying attention.--------------------------------------Visit Compression Works to learn more about the AAJT-S!!!https://compressionworks.com/--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – 90’s nostalgia, EMS life updates & NREMT test talk15:40 – Sponsor: Compression Works & the AAJT-S19:00 – Welcome to the Trauma Block21:30 – Medical Term of the Week: Shock (review + deep dive)41:00 – The Lethal Trauma Triad52:00 – External Bleeding: Arterial vs Venous vs Capillary1:10:00 – Tourniquets, Wound Packing & Pressure Dressings1:23:00 – Internal Bleeding: What You Can’t See Can Kill1:48:00 – Tools of the Trade: Junctional Tourniquets2:02:00 – Student Tip of the Week: Train the Tactile Skills--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Chris & Spencer - EMS 20/20 (RideAlong Interview)In this special interview episode of the RideAlong: EMT School Podcast, we sit down with Chris Pfingsten and Spencer Oliver, the hosts of the hit podcast EMS 20/20.Chris and Spencer join us to talk about their individual paths into EMS, how their friendship evolved through paramedic school, and how those experiences ultimately shaped the creation of EMS 20/20. Along the way, we dive into real-world EMS decision-making, the realities of working with limited resources, why classroom learning still matters, and how randomness and chaos are part of every call — sometimes literally decided by a 20-sided die.As always, the conversation takes a few entertaining detours into movie references, questionable ambulance memories, fictional EMS worlds, and the kind of gallows humor that only makes sense if you’ve worn gloves at 3 a.m.This episode is packed with insight for EMT students, seasoned providers, and anyone curious about what EMS really looks like beyond the textbook.--------------------------------------Check out the EMS 20/20 CE Credit Subscription!https://flightbridgeed.com/xproduct/ems-20-20-podcast-ce-subscription/--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Welcome & special guest introduction02:00 – Name pronunciations, Hollywood Video memories, and early EMS stories09:45 – First calls, rookie nerves, and “how sweaty were you?”15:00 – Chris & Spencer’s paths into EMS and paramedic school23:00 – Humor, coping mechanisms, and being misunderstood in EMS26:30 – Ambulance types, vomit floods, and operational competence33:00 – Building EMS 20/20 and why randomness matters in learning01:09:00 – Classroom vs real-world medicine and the value of new EMTs01:12:00 – Resource-rich vs resource-limited systems and decision-making01:33:00 – In-flight medical emergencies and what actually happens01:37:00 – EMS in fictional worlds (Middle-earth, Gotham, and Florida)01:44:00 – Final thoughts, encouragement, and closing reflections--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

I Don’t Need Your Civil Warfarin – Hematologic & Renal EmergenciesSome of the most dangerous emergencies in EMS don’t look dramatic when you first arrive on scene. In this episode, we dive into hematologic and renal emergencies — the “quiet” problems involving blood, kidneys, dialysis, and anticoagulants that can deteriorate rapidly if key details are missed.Mike, Max, and Jonathan break down how blood and kidney function are deeply connected, why blood thinners deserve immediate respect, and how missed dialysis, fistulas, and fluid imbalance can turn a routine call into a critical one. This episode emphasizes patient history, secondary assessment, and recognizing subtle red flags that matter just as much as vitals.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro, episode title, and catching up29:06 – Overview of hematologic and renal emergencies30:46 – Medical Term of the Week: Blood Thinners48:40 – Blood disorders, anticoagulants, and EMS implications01:12:00 – Renal emergencies, dialysis patients, and fistula considerations01:43:30 – Missed dialysis, rapid deterioration, and transport decisions01:45:34 – Student Tip of the Week: Secondary assessment and patient history--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Step Back From That Ledge My Friend (Psychiatric Emergencies)Psychiatric and behavioral emergencies are some of the most complex, emotionally charged calls EMS providers will ever respond to. In this episode, we take a deep dive into mental health crises, suicide, and behavioral emergencies—why they’re becoming more common, how they present in the field, and how EMTs can approach these patients safely, professionally, and with empathy.Drawing from both textbook fundamentals and real-world experience, we break down how to recognize a true mental health emergency, how to communicate with patients in crisis, and why these calls can escalate quickly if warning signs are missed. We also tackle excited delirium as our Medical Term of the Week, discuss involuntary holds, scene safety, and documentation, and wrap with an important reminder that EMS providers are not immune to mental health struggles themselves.--------------------------------------New RideAlong: EMT School Shirts Available!!!https://shop.bulletn.net/brand/ridealong/--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro, life updates, and setting the tone12:06 – Overview of psychiatric emergencies, mental health crisis, and suicide19:09 – Medical Term of the Week: Excited Delirium36:28 – Recognizing behavioral emergencies and red flags43:04 – Triggers vs. causes in mental health crises01:11:22 – Assessing mental status and patient communication01:47:23 – Involuntary holds, documentation, and legal considerations02:07:34 – Tools of the Trade: Airway adjuncts02:07:53 – Student Tip of the Week: EMS provider mental health and asking for help--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Let The Fear Take the Wheel and Steer (Graduation & EVOC)In this episode, we’re officially on the other side of EMT school — but not without one last gut check. We break down our EVOC experience, what we thought emergency vehicle operations would be versus what actually matters, and why “due regard” isn’t just a legal phrase — it’s a mindset. We also reflect on graduation, testing anxiety, and the strange emotional whiplash of finally being done… and immediately thinking about what’s next.From cone courses and uncomfortable realizations to why slowing down can actually save more lives, this one ties together the end of EMT school with the beginning of real-world responsibility.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro, EVOC nerves, and expectations vs reality50:55 – Graduation, practical exams, and NREMT head games01:29:40 - Medical Term of the Week: Due Regard01:46:03 - EVOC After Action Report01:54:45 – Tools of the Trade: ANSI / NZ 107 High-Visibility Safety Vest02:04:40 – Student Tip of the Week: Scene safety isn’t optional — make yourself visible--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

ROSC You Like a Hurricane (Resuscitation)Resuscitation is one of the heaviest and most misunderstood topics in EMS. In this episode, we break down what resuscitation really looks like in the prehospital environment — from recognizing cardiac arrest and organizing a response, to understanding rhythms, defibrillation, and when transport versus continued on-scene care makes sense. We also talk candidly about expectations, teamwork, and what “success” really means in resuscitation.--------------------------------------VIST OUR EPISODE AND TOOLS OF THE TRADE SPONSOR!!!Master Medical Equipmenthttps://www.mmemed.comDefibtechhttps://www.defibtech.com--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00:08 – Intro, shoutouts, and dedication00:15:18 – A message from our sponsor: Master Medical Equipment00:22:02 – Medical Term of the Week: Triangle of Life00:35:42 – Main topic discussion: Resuscitation01:49:00 – When do we stop? Termination of resuscitation, protocols, and medical direction02:08:11 – Tools of the Trade: AED (Sponsored by Master Medical Equipment + Defibtech)02:33:54 – Student Tip of the Week: Take a CPR/AED class--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Four Quadrant Death Hunch (Abdominal Emergencies)Abdominal pain is one of the most common — and most underestimated — complaints in EMS. In this episode, we break down abdominal emergencies through anatomy, assessment, and red flags that should immediately raise concern. From peritonitis and appendicitis to abdominal aortic aneurysms and referred pain, we focus on what EMTs need to recognize early and why “just belly pain” is never something to ignore.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro and episode setup03:30 – Why abdominal emergencies are difficult to assess in the field31:45 – Medical Term of the Week: Peritonitis44:55 – Abdominal quadrants, anatomy, and what organs live where50:45 – Peritoneum vs retroperitoneal space and why it matters58:15 – Types of abdominal pain, including referred pain01:19:00 – Abdominal aortic aneurysm and life-threatening red flags01:51:00 – Tools of the Trade: Thermometers and recognizing infection/sepsis02:05:30 – Student Tip of the Week: Never dismiss abdominal pain--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

The Bitter Taste of Poison (Poisonings & Overdose)Poisonings and overdoses are some of the most common — and most dangerous — calls EMS providers will face. In this episode, we break down how poisons affect the body, the different routes of exposure, and how EMTs recognize and manage overdose emergencies in the field. We also talk toxic syndromes, scene safety, and why airway management and rapid transport always come first.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro and episode overview06:50 – Overdoses vs poisonings and why both matter in EMS18:10 – Medical Term of the Week: Toxidromes34:00 – Routes of exposure: ingestion, inhalation, absorption, injection1:17:30 – Real-world overdose call and first code experience1:36:00 – Tools of the Trade: Naloxone (Narcan)1:50:25 – Student Tip of the Week: Scene safety in poisonings and overdoses--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Get Down with the Sepsis (Infectious Disease & Sepsis)In this episode of RideAlong: EMT School, Mike and Jonathan break down infectious diseases and sepsis, focusing on what sepsis actually is, why early recognition matters, and how EMTs play a critical role in patient outcomes. Real-world transport experience, historical context, and EMS-focused decision-making come together to turn a dense topic into something practical and memorable.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro, ride time updates, and missing Max formation08:45 – Real-world sepsis case and transport medicine perspective14:40 – Medical Term of the Week: What sepsis actually is30:20 – SIRS criteria, EMS recognition, and sepsis alerts38:00 – Infectious diseases and routes of transmission54:35 – PPE, exposure risks, and provider safety02:01:00 – Student Tip of the Week: PPE and hand hygiene--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Rash Against the Machine (Allergic Reactions)Allergies are common. Anaphylaxis is not — and knowing the difference can save a life. In this episode, we break down allergic reactions from mild rashes to full-blown anaphylaxis, why symptoms can escalate fast, and what EMTs need to recognize and act on immediately. From histamine release to airway compromise, epi administration, and transport priorities, this chapter hits fast and hits hard.--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro and episode setup04:00 – Allergic reactions vs anaphylaxis: why it matters09:30 – Medical Term of the Week: Anaphylaxis18:50 – Recognizing anaphylaxis in the field32:20 – Common allergens and real-world exposure scenarios46:45 – EMS priorities: airway, epi, oxygen, transport01:23:15 – Tools of the Trade: EpiPen and epinephrine delivery01:44:15 – Student Tip of the Week: Start practicing patient narratives now--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Stroke Me, Stroke Me (Stroke and Seizures)This week, the crew dives into one of the most time-critical topics in EMS: strokes. Building on the previous episode’s discussion of altered mental status and diabetic emergencies, Mike, Max, and Jonathon break down stroke recognition, seizures, syncope, and why rapid identification and transport are the most important interventions EMTs can provide. From CPSS to BE FAST, this episode focuses on recognizing the signs early and activating the system without delay.--------------------------------------VIST OUR TOOLS OF THE TRADE SPONSOR!!!StatPackshttps://www.statpacks.comSave 20% with code: Bulletn20--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro, episode title, and EMS life updates14:10 – Overview of strokes, seizures, syncope, and brain-related emergencies15:06 – Medical Term of the Week: Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS)22:24 – Public stroke recognition: BE FAST and calling 91126:55 – Stroke fundamentals: ischemic vs hemorrhagic strokes30:19 – Blood thinners, falls, and increased stroke risk32:42 – EMS realities: what you can and can’t do for stroke patients34:09 – Stroke alerts, hospital pre-notification, and why time is brain1:04:19 – Tools of the Trade: First In Bag1:19:55 – Student Tip of the Week: Always determine last known normal--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Pour Some Sugar Down Me (Diabetic Emergencies and Altered Mental Status)This week, the crew breaks down diabetic emergencies — from hypo vs. hyperglycemia to how sugar levels affect brain function and behavior. Mike, Max, and Jonathon dive into altered mental status, the role of insulin and glucose, and how EMTs assess and manage diabetic patients in the field.--------------------------------------VIST OUR TOOLS OF THE TRADE SPONSOR!!!microdot / Cambridge Sensorhttps://www.microdotcs.com--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro & “diabeetus” jokes, reports from class07:10 – Understanding diabetic emergencies: hypo vs hyper14:45 – Medical Term of the Week: Reticular Activating System (RAS)28:20 – Altered mental status, AVPU, and when to suspect low sugar47:50 – Treatment decisions: oral glucose, protocols, and field challenges1:10:30 – Tools of the Trade: Glucometer (Sponsored by microdot)1:20:40 – Student Tip of the Week: Angle your test strip to catch the blood drop cleanly--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Kickstart My Heart (Cardiac Emergencies)This week, the crew digs into one of the most intense and time-critical topics in EMT school — cardiac emergencies. From understanding how the heart actually feeds itself to recognizing the early signs of ACS, Mike, Max, and Jonathan break down what really happens during a heart attack and why seconds matter more than anything.They cover STEMI vs. NSTEMI, the electrical chaos behind shockable rhythms, and the subtle warning signs that women and atypical patients often show. Along the way, the guys dive into real-world ALS vs. BLS considerations, stories from the field, and why early 12-lead acquisition has become a lifesaving standard in modern EMS.--------------------------------------VIST OUR TOOLS OF THE TRADE SPONSOR!!!xShearhttps://xshear.com/Save 10% with code: RIDEALONG--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:37 – Opening banter, Monster song requests, and Billy Joel chaos05:00 – Medical Term of the Week: Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)12:00 – STEMI vs. NSTEMI, angina, and “time is tissue”20:00 – Electrical conduction system, EKG basics, and shockable rhythms33:00 – Perfusion, shock, and how cardiac output actually fails41:00 – BLS treatment: aspirin, nitro, oxygen, and positioning48:30 – CPR, AED use, and early defibrillation56:30 – Tools of the Trade: Trauma Shears (featuring XShear)1:07:00 – Student Tip of the Week: Get a 12-lead within 5 minutes of arrival--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

I'm Down to One Last Breath (Respiratory Emergencies)This week, the crew breaks down respiratory emergencies — from dyspnea and lung sounds to asthma, COPD, pneumonia, CHF, and pulmonary embolisms. Mike, Max, and Jonathan explore what respiratory distress looks like, how to differentiate major causes, and the tools EMTs use to treat breathing problems in the field.--------------------------------------VIST OUR EPISODE SPONSOR!!!StatPackshttps://statpacks.comSave 20% with code: BULLETN20--------------------------------------Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro, singing, and StatPacks announcement09:22 – Recognizing respiratory emergencies & assessing breathing “from the door”10:15 – Medical Term of the Week: Dyspnea19:24 – Asthma, COPD, pneumonia, CHF & pulmonary edema38:40 – Oxygen therapy, CPAP, bronchodilators & epinephrine1:13:00 – Tools of the Trade: Stethoscope1:22:46 – Student Tip of the Week: Nebulizer spill prevention--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttp://www.ridealong.bulletn.net

I Don't Try the Drugs, but the Drugs Try Me (Pharmacology)This week, the crew dives into one of the most information-heavy chapters in EMT school — Pharmacology. From oxygen to naloxone, Mike, Max, and Jonathan break down the EMT’s limited but life-saving drug box and the rules that govern every dose.They explore the difference between indications and contraindications, introduce the Five Rights of medication administration, and talk about the split between EMT-administered and EMT-assisted drugs. Along the way, Jonathan adds perspective from the paramedic’s side — including why communication and documentation matter just as much as the medicine itself.Episode Breakdown00:00 – Introduction and book recommendations: Lights & Sirens, Heart of the Storm, and the Ranger Medic Handbook10:14 – Medical Term of the Week: Indications & Contraindications29:00 – The Five Rights of Medication Administration42:40 – EMT-Administered Drugs: Oxygen, Oral Glucose, Aspirin, Naloxone1:09:50 – Assisted Medications: Epinephrine, Nitro, and Inhalers1:23:00 – Discussion on Paramedic Scope & Education1:25:00 – Monitoring, reassessment, and documentation1:25:30 – Tools of the Trade: Mobile PDR (Physician’s Desk Reference app)1:33:10 – Student Tip of the Week: Jonathan’s “Triple Check” method for medication safety--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

The Write Stuff (Reassessment, Communication & Documentation)This week, the crew digs into one of the least glamorous but most critical parts of EMS: communication and documentation. From giving clear radio reports to writing legal patient charts, Mike, Max, and Jonathan explore how every word you say (and every note you write) can impact patient care and your career.They break down what makes a solid patient report, why written narratives matter more than you think, and how good communication is the backbone of effective teamwork. Along the way, they compare old-school paper charting to today’s digital systems, share ride-along stories, and nerd out over the evolution of EMS radios—from “Johnny and Roy” to modern encrypted trunk systems.Episode Breakdown00:37 – Apollo 13 jokes and how NASA inspired this week’s theme08:45 – Communication in EMS: why it matters more than any skill14:00 – Medical Term of the Week: Patient Report (and the art of the handoff)24:10 – How to stay calm and sound confident on the radio35:00 – Legal documentation, accuracy, and “If it’s not written, it didn’t happen”47:40 – Tools of the Trade: Radios 📻 – from Astro 25 to trunked digital systems1:10:10 – Student Tip of the Week: Master your narrative style (SOAP, D-CHART, etc.)--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Steven Norman - Indianapolis Paramedic (RideAlong Interview)In this bonus interview, Mike sits down with Steve Norman, Paramedic and District Medic with Indianapolis EMS, for an inspiring look at mentorship, growth, and the journey from small-town EMT to big-city provider.From his first ride-along in West Virginia to coordinating a multi-agency Complex Coordinated Terror Attack (CCTA) workshop at EMS World Expo 2025, Steve shares how training, teamwork, and teaching others have shaped his career — and what it means to truly “find home” in EMS.They talk about the leap from rural medicine to a high-volume city system, the birth of Indy’s District Medic (fly car) model, and the power of mentorship in shaping confident, competent providers. Along the way, they swap stories about partnerships, leadership, conference life, and why “slow is smooth and smooth is sexy” might just be the best advice a medic can give.Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro & catching up after EMS World Expo04:50 – Steve’s role at Indianapolis EMS and life as a District Medic06:50 – Mentorship, preceptorship, and the value of training others13:40 – From West Virginia to Indianapolis: chasing opportunity and purpose22:40 – Rural vs. urban EMS — the culture shift and learning curve31:40 – Starting over in a new city and finding “home” again43:30 – Behind the scenes of the CCTA workshop at EMS World Expo55:30 – The challenge (and reward) of inter-agency collaboration1:04:40 – Why ongoing education and mentorship matter1:14:50 – Personal balance, concerts, Broadway, and life outside EMS1:25:40 – Three with an EMT: Steve’s lessons for students and new providers1:41:40 – Closing thoughts — “Slow is smooth. Smooth is sexy.”--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

The interview of a lifetime (Secondary Assessments)This week, the crew dives into one of the most conversation-driven parts of EMT work — the secondary assessment. After handling life threats in the primary survey, now it’s all about communication, connection, and collecting details that actually tell a patient’s story.Jonathan returns from night shift to rejoin Mike and Max as they break down OPQRST + SAMPLE, share their first field experiences doing secondary assessments, and reflect on the art of interviewing patients in real time. From reading subtle stroke signs to learning through small mistakes (like oxygen-hose mix-ups), this episode highlights how much of EMS happens through listening, observing, and talking.Episode Breakdown00:37 – Jonathan returns and the crew catches up on night shifts and ride-alongs06:20 – Mike’s first stroke-call experience and spotting subtle red flags10:00 – Learning from mistakes: the oxygen-hose incident20:15 – Medical Term of the Week: OPQRST + SAMPLE mnemonics explained36:30 – Focused vs. full secondary assessments – and knowing what’s “important now”48:20 – Physical exams, DECAP-BTLS, and patient communication tips1:03:10 – Tools of the Trade: Pulse Oximeter 🩸 (history, use, and limitations)1:14:00 – Student Tip of the Week: Know your community, speak their language--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

RideAlong Update (EMS World Expo)In this special bonus episode, Mike goes solo to bring you an inside look at EMS World Expo 2025 in Indianapolis — the largest gathering of EMS professionals, innovators, and educators in the world.From the classroom to the show floor, Mike shares what it’s like to step into the deep end of the EMS industry before even finishing EMT school — the lessons, the surprises, and the incredible people behind the scenes.Hear about the training scenarios with Indianapolis EMS, the keynote with Indy 500’s medical director, and the new gear and trends shaping the future of prehospital care — from StatPacks and xShear to cutting-edge tech like the Butterfly BVM and Compression Works AAJT-S.It’s part travel diary, part after-action report, and all passion for learning. Whether you’re a student, a seasoned medic, or just EMS-curious, this one’s packed with insight, gratitude, and a few laughs along the way.🎧 Topics include:What it’s really like to attend EMS World Expo as a studentBehind the scenes of a multi-agency terror attack simulationKey lessons from national EMS leaders and educatorsEmerging tech and trends from the expo floorWhy mentorship and curiosity matter in every stage of EMS🕐 Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Mike opens the bonus episode and sets the stage02:00 – Shoutouts to the people and companies who made the week amazing09:30 – What is EMS World Expo? What can you learn and why go?13:00 – Expectations vs. reality heading into the week20:00 – Overview of how the event is structured (Pre-Con + Exhibit Hall)38:00 – Day 1 – “Commanding Chaos” with Chief Ken Bouvier (Leadership in large-scale incidents)46:00 – Day 1 – FlightBridgeEd Critical Care Ventilator Workshop with Eric Bauer52:00 – Day 2 – “Complex Coordinated Terror Attack” full-day training with Indianapolis EMS1:01:00 – Day 3 – Keynote “EMS in the Fast Lane” with Dr. Julia Vaizer (Medical Director, Indy 500)1:07:00 – Day 4 – “BLS is BS” with Dr. David Wampler & Dr. CJ Winckler (UT Health San Antonio)1:12:00 – Day 4 – “Airplane! It’s Not a Movie, It’s a Real Life Situation” with Dr. Jeff Goodloe & Dr. Patrick Cody (Oklahoma City EMS)1:19:00 – Exhibit Hall walkthrough and product highlights (StatPacks, xShear, Butterfly BVM, Compression Works AAJT-S)1:32:00 – Key Takeaways & Trends (Whole Blood, Smart BVMs, mentorship in EMS)1:35:00 – Personal Highlights & Final Thoughts--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

First Impressions Matter (Scene Size-Up, Primary Assessment)In EMS, your first impression can literally save a life. This week, the crew breaks down the scene size-up and primary assessment—the first steps every EMT takes when arriving at an emergency. From assessing safety and forming that “doorway impression” to managing life threats with the ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation), Mike and Max unpack what it means to stay calm, think fast, and see the big picture.With Jonathan out on contract, the guys navigate class solo—sharing real ride-along stories, lessons from their first volunteer shifts, and what it’s like to start applying classroom knowledge in the field. They also introduce the AVPU scale (alert, verbal, pain, unresponsive) for gauging patient responsiveness, and cover PPE in this week’s Tools of the Trade.Episode Breakdown00:37 – Pop culture warm-up: SNL, The Pit, and EMS on screen08:30 – Real-world ride-along stories and first volunteer calls15:10 – Scene Size-Up: safety, awareness, and “from the door” impressions18:15 – Medical Term of the Week: AVPU responsiveness scale25:40 – Primary Assessment: airway, breathing, circulation, and life threats33:10 – Scene safety, violent scenes, and when to call for help38:40 – Tools of the Trade: PPE (gloves, glasses, and gowns)1:14:20 – Student Tip of the Week: Always carry a pen & pad--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Proof of Life (Vital Signs)Vital signs are the foundation of every patient assessment—and this week, the crew gets hands-on with the “proof of life.” Mike and Max break down the five core vitals (pulse, respirations, skin, pupils, and blood pressure), plus the “bonus” indicators like oxygen saturation and blood glucose.With Jonathan out this week, the guys tackle class solo—sharing lessons from the field, stories of testing on family members, and why getting an accurate manual blood pressure is harder than it looks. They also spotlight the American Heart Association in this episode’s community feature and close out with a Tools of the Trade segment on the blood pressure cuff (sphygmomanometer)—the deceptively simple tool every EMT has to master.Episode Breakdown00:37 – Celebrating 10 episodes (and one secret pilot)02:20 – Vital signs: the “proof of life” and what they tell us05:00 – Spotlight: The American Heart Association ❤️09:00 – Medical Term of the Week: Baseline13:20 – Tracking patient trends and reassessments15:10 – The five core vital signs (and the two bonus ones)19:00 – Pulse: where to find it and what it tells you40:00 – Respirations: counting breaths and recognizing effort43:30 – Skin: “pink, warm, and dry” vs. pale, cool, and clammy47:00 – Pupils: PERRL, penlights, and what dilation reveals51:00 – Blood pressure: manual technique and practice stories1:15:00 – Manual vs. automatic cuffs + pro tips from class1:21:00 – Tools of the Trade: Blood Pressure Cuff (Sphygmomanometer)1:22:00 – Student Tip of the Week: Build your own vitals kit1:29:00 – Closing thoughts & Jonathan appreciation--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

And She’s buying an Airway to Heaven (Airway Management & Ventilation)Airway is everything in EMS, and this week the crew gets hands-on with one of the most critical skills an EMT can learn. Mike, Max, and Jonathan dive into airway anatomy, manual airway maneuvers, suction, BVM ventilation, oxygen delivery devices, and airway adjuncts. From recognizing stridor to mastering the head-tilt chin-lift, this episode connects classroom lessons to real-world lifesaving skills.The guys also have some fun with Lord of the Rings pop culture references, highlight the i-gel supraglottic airway in Tools of the Trade, and share a student tip on practicing lung sounds early and often.Episode Breakdown00:59 – Medical Term of the Week: Stridor12:00 – Airway management: why it comes first in ABCs17:45 – Recognizing airway obstruction sounds (stridor, gurgling, wheezing, rales/crackles)29:30 – Manual maneuvers: head-tilt chin-lift & jaw thrust33:15 – Suction devices: Yankauer vs. Ducanto41:20 – OPA vs. NPA and when to use them48:05 – Supraglottic airways & ALS vs. BLS scope55:00 – Bag valve mask ventilation techniques1:02:00 – Oxygen delivery: nasal cannula vs. NRB mask1:10:42 – Tools of the Trade: i-gel Supraglottic Airway1:20:15 – Student Tip of the Week: Listen to lung sounds on everyone--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.ridealong.bulletn.net

Prove It or Lose It (Competency Verification & Skills Check)After eight classes, the crew hits a mid-season “prove it” moment. Mike, Max, and Jonathan recap Section One of EMT school and what it’s like to switch from book work to demonstrating real skills under pressure. It’s a lighter, story-driven debrief that still digs into hands-on takeaways—like practicing backboards with head blocks for c-spine control—and why actually touching the equipment beats watching someone else do it.They also run through the big themes from the first eight chapters: EMS system overview, EMT well-being, legal/ethical scenarios, patient movement, med terms, anatomy, pathophysiology, and lifespan development—plus how the “skills check” vibe changes the way you study and perform.Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro & welcome back to RideAlong (Ep. 8 kickoff)02:22 – Sponsor Spotlight: xShear Trauma Shears + Giveaway reminder38:57 – Section One recap: from EMT wellness to patient movement, ethics, terminology, anatomy, pathophysiology, and lifespan development45:02 – Hands-on highlights: backboards, head blocks, and why c-spine practice matters45:44 – “Doing it beats watching it”: why practical reps change everything46:41 – How we’ll treat review episodes + where to connect with us on socials47:24 – Closing & disclaimer--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkswww.RideAlong.Bulletn.net

Stayin’ Alive (CPR Training and Certification)Mike and Max earn their CPR certification — the first major credential on the road to becoming EMTs. With Jonathan adding real-world perspective, the crew covers what high-quality CPR really means, how AEDs actually work, and why chest recoil is just as important as compression depth.From adult compressions to infant rescue breathing, this episode dives into the skills every EMT (and civilian) needs to know. Plus, a closer look at the scoop stretcher in Tools of the Trade, and a student tip on being ready for your very first clinical shift.Episode Breakdown00:58 – Medical Term of the Week: High-Quality CPR08:17 – Recognition and early intervention13:45 – Chest recoil, depth, and compression rate22:15 – AEDs: What they actually do (and don’t do)34:03 – Rescue breathing and avoiding barotrauma42:49 – Adult vs. pediatric CPR46:42 – Choking emergencies & “abdominal thrusts”52:58 – Tools of the Trade: Scoop Stretcher1:08:12 – Student Tip of the Week: Be prepared for CPR on your first clinical shift--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttps://linktr.ee/RideAlongEMTSchool

From Cradle to Grave (Life Span Development)Mike and Max (with Jonathan bringing the paramedic perspective) tackle life span development — how EMTs assess and interact with patients differently from infancy through late adulthood. From dehydration in infants, to psychosocial factors in adolescents, to polypharmacy in the elderly, the crew walks through the major age groups and what makes each unique in the field.This week also features a musically Medical Term of the Week, a spotlight on the Reeves stretcher as our Tool of the Trade, and a student tip on the importance of doing truck checks. Plus, we highlight the Code Green Campaign, an organization dedicated to mental health and suicide prevention for first responders.Episode Breakdown08:08 – Medical Term of the Week: Psychosocial17:12 – Life span development across age groups20:30 – Vital sign ranges: infants vs. adults25:04 – Psychosocial factors in kids and adolescents34:51 – Sensitivity and communication with teens39:45 – Early and middle adulthood: trauma and bad habits43:04 – Late adulthood: fragility, pill burden, and polypharmacy52:58 – Tools of the Trade: Reeves Stretcher1:00:48 – Student Tip of the Week: Participate in truck checks--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttps://linktr.ee/RideAlongEMTSchool

Malfunction Junction (Pathophysiology)Mike and Jonathan (flying the “missing man formation” without Max) dive into the toughest class yet: pathophysiology. They tackle the foundational concepts of how the body’s systems work together, what happens when they fail, and why understanding compensation and perfusion is critical for EMTs.From heart and lungs working in tandem, to the different types of shock, to how children compensate differently than adults, this episode connects classroom theory to real-world EMS. Jonathan also brings in practical field experience and an EMT instructor’s tip on how students can succeed in class.Episode Breakdown09:43 – Medical Term of the Week: Compensation13:17 – Cardiovascular & respiratory systems in balance22:53 – Compensation vs. decompensation in patients33:02 – System-by-system breakdown: cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, skin37:08 – Shock explained: hypovolemic, cardiogenic, distributive, neurogenic, obstructive45:53 – Perfusion and the ABCs of airway, breathing, circulation55:00 – Adult vs. pediatric compensation (gradual decline vs. sudden crash)1:03:22 – Tools of the Trade: (skipped this week – EMT shears coming in Ep 6)1:04:25 – Student Tip of the Week: Don’t be afraid to ask questions (feat. EMT Instructor Ashley)--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttps://linktr.ee/RideAlongEMTSchool

Talk Nerdy to Me (Medical Terminology & Anatomy Basics)Mike and Jonathan dive into the challenging world of EMT vocabulary, tackling medical terminology and the basics of human anatomy. From anatomical position to directional terms like anterior, dorsal, and proximal, they explore how EMTs learn to speak a common language.The conversation also digs into when to use precise medical jargon versus plain language in the field, why mnemonics and analogies can make studying easier, and how anatomy leads directly into next week’s topic of pathophysiology. Plus, Jonathan spotlights the importance of modern tourniquet kits in this week’s Tools of the Trade.Episode Breakdown07:30 – Medical Term of the Week: Anatomical Position10:00 – Learning directional terms: anterior, posterior, dorsal, proximal, distal18:30 – Plain speak vs. professional jargon in EMS33:00 – Mnemonics, word roots, and anatomy study tips45:00 – Anatomy vs. physiology explained with car analogies58:00 – Tools of the Trade: Tourniquet Kits1:09:00 – Student Tip of the Week: Take care of personal needs when you can--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttps://linktr.ee/RideAlongEMTSchool

Moral Quandaries & Hip Throws (Legalities, Ethics, and Moving Patients)Mike and Max recap their third night of EMT school, where the class shifted between heavy ethical discussions and hands-on patient movement training. Joined by Jonathon, a working paramedic, the hosts dive into the real-world dilemmas of consent, duty to act, and scope of practice, before hitting the mats to practice carries, backboards, and stair chairs.From navigating moral conflicts in EMS to learning how to physically move patients without injury, this episode captures the balance between the mental and physical demands of EMT school.Episode Breakdown04:27 – Medical Term of the Week: Implied Consent18:00 – Main Class Topics:18:20 – Express vs. implied consent and patient refusals27:00 – Duty to act, Good Samaritan laws, and moral conflicts33:00 – Scope of practice, medical directors, and EMS protocols45:00 – Confidentiality, HIPAA, and mandatory reporting53:00 – Ethical dilemmas in real-world EMS1:05:00 – Hands-On Skills: Patient carries, drags, backboards & stretchers1:08:00 – Tools of the Trade: Stair Chair1:17:00 – Student Tip of the Week: Stay physically fit for patient care--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttps://linktr.ee/RideAlongEMTSchool

Surviving Week One (Diving In To EMS)Mike and Max share what it was like stepping back into the classroom for their first week of EMT school — from being “older students” to navigating the demographics of their new classmates. Joined by Jonathan, a working paramedic, the hosts break down EMT training levels, trauma center designations, and why provider wellness matters if you want to last in this career.This episode also introduces two recurring segments: Tools of the Trade and Student Tips — giving you practical resources and advice to help on your own EMT journey.Episode Breakdown00:12 – Medical Term of the Week: Trauma Center Levels18:00 – Main Class Topics:18:20 – EMT training levels (EMR, EMT, AEMT, Paramedic)22:00 – Trauma center designations and hospital capabilities27:00 – Class demographics & being “older” students32:00 – Instructor styles and classroom reality49:00 – EMS history & culture shift around provider wellness1:22:00 – Tools of the Trade: PAMedic.org app1:27:00 – Student Tip of the Week: Get in the book--------------------------------------First Responder Mental Health Resourceshttps://responderstrong.org/Safe Call Now: (206) 459-3020National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------🚑 RideAlong: EMT School Linkshttps://linktr.ee/RideAlongEMTSchool

Why EMT School? (Registration, EMT Well-being)In the very first episode of RideAlong: EMT School, Mike and Max dive into why they decided to start EMT school and what it takes to get enrolled. Joined by Jonathon, a working paramedic, the hosts discuss the sacrifices needed to balance training with work and family, the gear and requirements for getting started, and what new EMT students should expect from their first night in class.Whether you’re curious about becoming an EMT or just want a behind-the-scenes look at the student journey, this is where it all begins.Episode Breakdown00:00 – Intro & welcome03:30 – Main Class Topics:03:35 – Why we started this podcast05:10 – Meet the hosts: Jonathon, Mike, and Max09:30 – Mike’s background & Bulletn.net12:20 – Max’s background and motivation15:00 – Why share the EMT student journey?18:20 – Finding and enrolling in an EMT program26:00 – Costs, scholarships, and financial aid33:00 – Time commitment & sacrifices43:00 – Background checks, uniforms, and required gear47:00 – FEMA/NIMS coursework and prep55:00 – Student Tip of the Week: Jonathon’s first EMT school advice59:00 – Closing thoughts & what’s next in EMT school--------------------------------------⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and storytelling purposes only. It is not medical advice or official EMT training. Always follow your accredited instructors and local protocols.--------------------------------------RideAlong: EMT School Linktreehttps://linktr.ee/RideAlongEMTSchool

Ever wonder what it’s really like to become an EMT? RideAlong: EMT School follows Mike and Max as they take on EMT training for the first time, with guidance from their co-host Jonathon, a paramedic bringing real-world perspective.Each week, the trio breaks down lessons from class, shares the challenges of training, and explores the tools, tips, and stories that every future EMT should know. From medical terms to hands-on skills, this podcast gives you a front-row seat to the student experience.Whether you’re thinking about EMT school, already in EMS, or just curious about the world of first responders, this podcast is your inside look.🎙️ New episodes every Monday. Stay sharp, strap in, and ride along with us.