DAMN Good Medics

Confidence in EMS practice is a critical but so often overlooked aspect of emergency medical services. In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the delicate balance between having enough confidence to make life-saving decisions and avoiding the pitfalls of overconfidence. As EMS professionals, we've all experienced those moments of self-doubt, right? Especially early on in our careers. But...

In Part Two of our conversation on competence, we shift focus from the individual provider to leadership. Lee explores how burnout, poor training, and unclear expectations often cause leaders to stall—or fail altogether. From the dangers of "flying by the seat of your pants" to the missed potential of under-supported FTOs, we ask: Are we preparing people to lead, or just promoting them? We dig int...

In this episode, Lee opens up about a time when he was on the verge of walking away from his EMS career. He struggled with intense self-doubt and wrestled with the question so many of us face: Am I really cut out for this? That turning point came when he found mentors who didn't just encourage him—but challenged him. They offered constructive criticism, not just praise. That guidance helped him re...

In this episode of 'Damn Good Medics,' hosts Mark, Lee and Chad delve into the transformation from good medics to great medics by exploring the high reliability components within the EMS industry. They discuss how attitudes, if held for long enough, can become deeply ingrained values influencing personal and professional behavior. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, adaptive a...

Felt, Not Taught: Gut Instincts and the Weight of the Unspoken EP 2 Show notes: EMS, paramedics, emergency response, and mental health In this episode, we dive into the unseen layers of emergency medical services—the things we  feel , but don't always say out loud. From the valence of our gut reactions to the unspoken knowledge passed between seasoned medics, we explore how tacit knowledge shapes...

Ep 01 Affect in Action: Emotions on the Front Lines Show Notes   In this inaugural episode, the hosts introduce themselves and share their diverse backgrounds, education, and experiences in the industry. They lay the groundwork for the podcast by offering personal stories that shaped their perspectives and professional paths. The discussion dives into the concept of   affect   — exploring how emot...

What separates a good medic from a great one? In the high-stakes world of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), it's not just about following protocols—it's about transformation. Join us as we draw the lines in the sand, cutting through the chaos of the EMS industry to uncover what truly elevates patient care, strengthens organizations, and empowers medics to exceed their potential. Each episode break...