EMS: Erik & Matt Show

STEMI is out. OMI is in. In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Axene and Matt Ball unpack the newest data on occlusive myocardial infarction (OMI) criteria—and why sticking to traditional STEMI patterns could cause you to miss up to 34% of heart attacks. They break down the April 2025 literature, discuss real-world EMS implications, and challenge every provider to rethink how they r...

The record has been set—but it almost didn't happen. In this follow-up episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball break down the chaos, comedy, and close calls from their 3,200-mile ambulance journey. From mechanical failures and border stops to alligator wrangling and Chick-fil-A-fueled escape rooms, the duo recounts how this wild idea became a certified Guinness...

What does it take to set a Guinness World Record for the longest EMS ground transport? In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball reveal their ambitious plan to take the oldest licensed ambulance in the U.S. on a record-breaking journey across the country. Along the way, they’ll film content for an upcoming EMS lecture bundle, visit fire stations, and prove that...

Whole blood transfusions are gaining momentum in EMS, but how do they work in the field? In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball sit down with EMS medical directors Dr. Joshua Bobko, Dr. Mark Gamber, and Dr. Cynthia Simmons to break down the science, real-world applications, and the logistical challenges of whole blood programs. From trauma cases to medical e...

Massive hemorrhage is the leading cause of death in trauma, and EMS providers often have just seconds to intervene. In this episode, Erik and Matt discuss hemorrhage control techniques that save lives both in the field and in extreme environments. Whether you're a combat medic or an average citizen, it's important to know how to stop bleeding in a patient. Hemorrhage is the leading cause...

Criminal charges against EMS providers are becoming more common, and the latest case out of Sioux City has the EMS world on edge. A paramedic is facing manslaughter charges after mistakenly administering a paralytic instead of a sedative—resulting in a tragic patient outcome. Are EMS providers now at legal risk for honest mistakes? What can we learn from this case? And how can EMS professionals pr...

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , we tackle one of the most common questions we get: Should paramedics go to nursing school or med school? Erik and Matt share their personal journeys through nursing and medical school, comparing them to their time in paramedic school. What’s different? What’s harder? What should you expect? Whether you’re looking to advance your EMS career or are simply...

Mass casualty incidents (MCIs) have unfortunately become a more frequent reality. In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show, Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball reflect on the tragic New Orleans attack that left 15 dead and dozens injured. They dive into the principles of effective MCI response, emphasizing the importance of triage, hemorrhage control, and teamwork. Whether you're an EMT, paramedic,...

As first responders, EMS professionals often encounter situations others don’t—inside homes, in unsafe environments, and during moments of crisis. In this sobering episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball explore the critical role EMS plays in recognizing and reporting child abuse. From physical exam patterns to the "Ten Four Faces P" mnemonic, this discussion equ...

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball emphasize the importance of consistent exercise and forming healthy habits tailored for first responders. They delve into practical strategies for breaking through fitness plateaus, building discipline, and leveraging community support to stay motivated and achieve lasting results.

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball tackle the critical topic of vitality, the fifth pillar of the THRIVE series. They dive into how mental health impacts overall well-being, sharing personal stories, strategies for resilience, and the importance of community support for EMS professionals facing frequent trauma.

For first responders and medical professionals, holidays often mean more than festive celebrations—they mean sacrifices and balancing acts. In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show, Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball share their unique experiences working through Christmas, Thanksgiving, and even Super Bowl Sunday. From trading shifts to finding joy in unconventional holiday celebrations, this episode...

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball dive into the fourth pillar of THRIVE: Intake . They explore how choices around food, drink, and even mental stimuli impact overall health and wellness. With insights into the benefits of a balanced diet, tips for choosing whole foods, and the dangers of processed foods, this discussion equips EMS professionals with practical...

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball focus on the importance of Rest as the third pillar of THRIVE for health and wellness. They discuss the science behind sleep, share practical tips for managing sleep apnea, and highlight restorative practices like meditation and hobbies that EMS professionals can use to recharge. Understanding rest's role in overall heal...

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball dive into the second pillar of THRIVE— health .  Covering key points like weight tracking, blood pressure checks, cancer screenings, and cholesterol management, this episode is a must-listen for those dedicated to their health and long-term success as first responders. Stay informed, proactive, and ready for any emergency wit...

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball dive into the first pillar of THRIVE— team . They explore how building strong relationships and community among EMS professionals can improve both personal and professional well-being. From the importance of accountability to the unique camaraderie in the EMS field, this episode sheds light on how teamwork drives better healt...

In this episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball discuss the critical importance of health and wellness for first responders. Erik, who has spoken across the country on this topic, emphasizes that keeping ourselves healthy is one of the best ways to serve others. He introduces the THRIVE acronym, which outlines the six pillars of health and wellness. Join us over the...

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball explore the crucial components of mega code paramedic training. From the perspective of a medical director and a seasoned FTO, they discuss the challenges and strategies for passing a mega code evaluation. Whether you're a new paramedic in training or an experienced first responder, this episode provides valuable i...

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball continue to discuss the vital differences between Occlusive Myocardial Infarction (OMI) and STEMI, two critical conditions that can make the difference between life and death in pre-hospital care. While STEMI recognition has long been the standard, new research shows that focusing solely on STEMI could lead to missing up to 2...

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball break down the vital differences between Occlusive Myocardial Infarction (OMI) and STEMI, two critical conditions that can make the difference between life and death in pre-hospital care. While STEMI recognition has long been the standard, new research shows that focusing solely on STEMI could lead to missing up to 25% of hea...

In this episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene shares his unique experience as an Airway Management Physician (AMP) with the Dallas Cowboys. The NFL employs AMPs to be on the sidelines at every game, ready to respond to any medical emergency. Tune in to hear about Erik’s role, the responsibilities of an AMP, and the critical importance of airway management in professional sports...

In this episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball dive into the world of tattoos. Getting a tattoo is a big decision, and Matt, who has several tattoos, shares his experiences while Erik, who is considering getting one, explores the pros and cons. From designing tattoos in college to working in a tattoo removal clinic, Erik discusses the medical side of getting inked,...

In this episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball share their philosophy on EMS education. With Dr. Axene’s extensive background as an educator—holding a master’s degree in education and experience as a physics teacher before becoming a physician—and Matt’s experience teaching EMS in college settings and providing continuing education to hundreds of firefighters, EMTs...

On this very special episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball reflect on where they were on September 11, 2001. As we honor the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, we take a moment to remember the heroes and civilians who perished that day. Join us as we pause, reflect, and ensure that we never forget the sacrifices made on that tragic day.

In this episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), hosts Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball share effective strategies for tackling major exams like the National Registry, NCLEX, and MCAT. Drawing from their extensive experience, Erik and Matt provide valuable tips and insights to help you succeed. Whether you’re an aspiring EMS professional, nurse, or medical student, this episode is packed with practi...