the260

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way we learn, teach, and work—and EMS is no exception. In this episode, Taylor Finn sits down with Mike from Rescue Academy to explore how AI is shaping the future of emergency medical services. They discuss practical ways providers and educators can use AI to improve lesson planning, streamline administrative tasks, create training scenarios, enhanc...

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the death of a child and may be difficult for some listeners. In this deeply emotional episode of the260 , we sit down with David Hughes to talk about the life and loss of his son, Drew. Together, we discuss the events surrounding Drew’s case, including concerns involving the misuse of RSI protocols and the overall management of his care. While this conversa...

We’re joined by Whitney for a powerful conversation on leadership that resonates across all ages and experience levels. From developing confidence as a young leader to refining your approach over time, this episode delivers practical advice that applies far beyond EMS. The lessons shared are adaptable, relatable, and relevant to anyone looking to lead more effectively. Lead Boldly Website https://...

We recorded this episode at the Fort Wayne Fire Museum and sat down with Dennis Giere to talk through where EMS came from, how it gained momentum, and why understanding its beginnings still matters today. This episode looks at the foundation of the service so many of us are proud to be part of and why its history continues to influence how we serve our communities now. Report from Engine Co. 82 by...

On this episode of the 260 , we sit down with Zak, a strategic business planning manager with the Red Cross, to dig into the spirit behind the annual Battle of the Badges . It’s the friendly competition where fire, police, and EMS each rally their supporters to donate blood and earn bragging rights. We explore why the event is fun, what makes blood donation meaningful, and what a donation experien...

In this episode, Kaitlin and Taylor sit down with Dan Basting and Adam Jackson to unpack what it really means to be a “cookbook medic.” Together, they explore how strict protocol reliance can limit critical thinking—and how digging into the  why  behind the medicine helps elevate care, confidence, and clinical judgment. This conversation challenges you to move past memorization and embrace true un...

we sit down with Brad Garton to unpack one of the most intense calls of his career. A scene that required a rare and life-saving field amputation. Brad walks us through the events leading up to that critical moment, the challenges faced on scene, and the unconventional methods used to get the patient out safely. He also opens up about what comes after a decision like that—the emotional weight, the...

In honor of Halloween,  The 260  is bringing you 11 spooky (and sometimes hilarious) stories straight from the field. From haunted houses and mysterious cars tailing the ambulance to good old-fashioned station pranks, this episode is all about light-hearted fun with a Halloween twist. Stick around until the end — our last story is absolutely phenomenal.

In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with Tim Skiver, HazMat Team Lead for Fort Wayne Fire, to pull back the curtain on one of the department’s most specialized units. Tim shares the ins and outs of HazMat response—from the dynamics of the team and the process of joining, to the unique challenges they face on scene. They tackle common misconceptions about HazMat work and highlight what it really tak...

In this episode, Kaitlin sits down with Dr. Scott and guest Bryan Heckman for a deep dive into one of the most critical conditions we face in EMS: sepsis. From breaking down the difference between SIRS and sepsis, to recognizing high-risk patients, to treatment strategies and what’s really happening inside the body, this conversation brings clarity to a complex and often misunderstood topic.

Below the Surface  takes you inside the world of the Fort Wayne Fire Department’s elite Dive Team. Hosted by Kaitlin Carper and Dive Team Lead Brad Garton, explores the skills, training, and stories that define underwater rescue work — from how firefighters join the team to the life-saving missions that push divers to their limits.

In this episode,  Kaitlin Carper  sits down with   Ryan McCurdy , lead of the Fort Wayne Fire Department’s Technical Rescue Team. Ryan shares what it takes to join the team, the certifications required, and the wide range of disciplines they cover—from trench and grain bin rescues to high- and low-angle operations. He also dives offering a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most challenging and...

For decades, medicine was designed around the “average male patient”—your medications, ER treatments, even heart attack and stroke protocols. It wasn’t intentional, it was invisible. Now, ER physician and medical researcher Dr. Alyson J. McGregor is spotlighting the science that’s been overlooked—from how heart attacks manifest differently in women, to how hormones alter drug metabolism. In this e...

In this episode of  the260 , Kaitlin and Taylor take on one of the most difficult responsibilities in emergency services—giving a death notice. It’s a task that demands compassion, clarity, and courage, and yet it’s something many of us never truly feel prepared for. Together, we share real-world insight, personal experiences, and practical tips to help providers approach this moment with the prof...

In this episode of  the260 , we sit down with veterinarian Dr. Logan Eicher to explore the wild and rewarding world of emergency animal care. From roadside rescues to pet CPR, Dr. Eicher shares gripping stories from his path to becoming a vet and offers practical advice for first responders and pet owners alike. Learn how to provide lifesaving aid to animals in crisis and hear some unforgettable m...

Randy Auker has lived and breathed EMS since the 1970s. From his early days running first aid in St. Joe Township to flying as a medic in the skies and leading as EMS director of TRAA, Randy’s career is nothing short of legendary. In this episode, we talk about how EMS has changed, what’s stayed the same, and what it means to dedicate your life to serving others. Whether you're new to EMS or a...

In this powerful and personal episode, we sit down with Paramedic/Firefighter Korie Egolf—who’s not only a dedicated first responder but also a wife and mother. Korie opens up about what it’s really like to be pregnant while working in EMS and fire, drawing from her experience with two pregnancies. We explore the physical and emotional challenges, when to transition to light duty, and how to navig...

In this episode, we sit down with Emily, a dispatcher, to pull back the curtain on what life is really like behind the headset. She shares the high-pressure realities of being the first point of contact in emergencies, the emotional toll the job can take, and the deep rewards that come from helping others. Emily also highlights what makes a strong communicator, how to stay calm in the chaos, and t...

In this episode of the260 , we sit down with Adam Jackson and Dan Basting for a conversation all about mentorship. They share stories of the mentors who shaped their careers, the lessons they carry forward, and their own experiences stepping into the role of mentor. Whether you're early in your EMS or public safety career or you're someone looking to give back and guide the next generation...

In this candid episode, Kaitlin and Taylor sit down to tackle something many of us silently struggle with—imposter syndrome. Taylor leads the conversation, sharing what it feels like from his perspective, how it shows up in everyday life, and why it’s more common than you think. Together, they explore what imposter syndrome really is, how to recognize it, and strategies to keep it from holding you...

In this episode, we sit down with Chief McCurdy and Mark Litwinko to dive into the world of fire investigation. From becoming a certified fire investigator—including the unique path of attending both the Fire and Police Academies—to knowing when and how to call for an investigator, this episode breaks it all down. We talk about the role fire investigators play on scene, and the cold cases they man...

Join the260 with Mark Litwinko—fire investigator, seasoned AEMT, and founder of Axis Emergency Readiness Solutions—as he dives into the critical world of Rescue Task Force (RTF) operations. In this episode, Mark breaks down what RTF is, why it matters, and how first responders can prepare for the ever-present threat of active violence. Drawing from years of experience teaching RTF tactics at FDIC...

In this episode of  the260 , we sit down with Zach Stoppenhagen, a paramedic and nurse at Parkview Regional Medical Center, to talk about their cutting-edge implementation of eCPR (extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Zach walks us through what eCPR is, how it’s changing outcomes for cardiac arrest patients, and what it takes to launch and sustain this advanced protocol in a hospital set...

In this episode of the260 , we sit down with Ginger Locke—educator, paramedic, and host of the Medic Mindset podcast—to talk all things feedback. From the sting of tough criticism to the power of thoughtful praise, we dive into the art of giving and receiving feedback in EMS. Kaitlin, Taylor, and Ginger share personal stories, lessons learned, and why feedback, even when it’s hard to hear, is one...

On this episode of the260 , we sit down with Jason Zimmerman — firefighter, paramedic, and lieutenant — to hear how he got his start in EMS and what it’s like juggling multiple roles on scene. Jason shares his experiences working in both urban and rural settings, the challenges that come with wearing multiple hats, and why scene awareness and safety should always come first. Whether you’re new to...