EMS CAST: Podcast – HIGH LEVEL EDUCATION WITH PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Learn what they didn't teach you in paramedic school

A podcast for EMS providers, we cover topics in more depth than you learned in paramedic school and connect this all back to the guiding principle of what actually matters to you the provider in the field.

“Wish I could give 6 stars. These guys are the Bob Ross of emergency care.”

Shangsnek

What Do You Want To Learn Today?

Or Pick A Topic...

About Us

Ross Orpet, MD

A board certified emergency medicine physician practicing in Colorado, I completed my residency at Denver Health Medical Center, as well as a fellowship in Emergency Medical Services. I got my start in emergency medicine working as a paramedic at the Denver Health Paramedic Division..

Will Berry, FP-C, NR-P

I have worked in EMS for 13 years and caught the bug to be involved in emergency response after working as a wilderness guide in Colorado. Most of my career was with the Denver Health Paramedic Division where I spent several years as a Lieutenant. I am currently a practicing critical care paramedic in North Carolina.

What People Are Saying

Great Podcast!

“I have been a nurse for 10 years, most of that in the emergency department. The information on this podcast is not only helpful for paramedics, but applies to ER nursing as well! I always encourage our new nurses and experienced nurses to listen to this podcast!”

Shane G33

08/31/2023

Great For First Responders

“Paramedic of 3 years here. This is the podcast I keep coming back to. I get a great mix of in-depth information beyond my scope as well as lots of practical information for me as a provider in the field.”

Rjbaker022

07/06/2023

Most Recent Episode Breakdowns

Invisible Scars: The Battle for Mental Health in EMS – PATH4EMS

Let's discuss the pressing issue of mental health among first responders, particularly within the EMS community. Will gets vulnerable and shares a personal story of

Wide Complex Tachycardia: Get Comfortable With Uncertainty

Learn a systematic approach to management of wide complex tachycardia that doesn't rely on exact rhythm identification or scoring systems with guest Dr. Kevin Butler.

From Novice to Navigator: Mastering the Art of EMS Field Training

Joined by Josh, Cody, and Moose from the AlertMedicOne podcast, we explore key principles of good training, leadership, and the importance of making mistakes in

The Difference Between Equal and Equitable Care

Explore the crucial distinction between providing equal care versus equitable care within emergency medical services (EMS). We give you an in-depth discussion with Ritu Sani

Life Over Limb: Field Amputation, Preparing For The Unthinkable

Dr. Avery McKenzie interviews Dr. Eric Adler, regional medical director for Flight for Life, about the challenging and rare procedure of field amputations. They discuss

The Untold Impact of EMS on Organ Donation: Transforming Tragedy into Hope

In this episode, we discuss the profound impact that one patient's organ donation can have on society. Even when not every patient gets to go

Podcast player

EMS Cast: Advanced Continuing Education for Paramedics, EMTs & Prehospital Care Providers

Paramedic training is over, you’re in the front seat now. Whether day 1 or day 1,000 you can’t shake the fear you’re underprepared. You were taught to systematically decide if A… do B. But what if “A” wasn’t in the book? The truth is each emergency call is too unique to teach the right response to every situation. We need to go beyond algorithmic thinking and understand deeper principles, the WHY behind the algorithm. When every decision counts you want to rely on a framework that will guide you when things don’t make sense. EMS cast is your resource to build that framework. Through discussions with experts, review of evidence-based best practices, and real-world case studies we teach you one step past what you learned in paramedic school. But all of this advanced education is connected back to the guiding principles that answer the question- “at the end of the day, what actually matters to the patient I have in front of me?” Our mission is to elevate your practice and help you improve patient outcomes in every emergency situation. You may not feel ready, you may not feel like you know enough, but by understanding the guiding principles of emergency medicine you can become an expert EMS clinician. Because what you do matters.

Let’s discuss the pressing issue of mental health among first responders, particularly within the EMS community. Will gets vulnerable and shares a personal story of trauma on the job to highlight the urgent need for mental health resources and support. Unfortunately, his story is not unique, we will all experience some level of emotional trauma while on the job. This episode features Jessica Nelson, the coordinator of the groundbreaking program and first of its kind state legislation, PATH4EMS. PATH4EMS provides free and confidential mental health care for EMS professionals. We delve into strategies for normalizing mental health conversations, the importance of trauma-informed care, and the benefits of proactive mental health practices. The discussion also covers the need for tailored, evidence-based resources and the unique challenges faced by rural first responders. Tune in to learn about the vital steps being taken to ensure the well-being of those who brave the front lines.

00:00 The Struggles of First Responders
00:53 A Personal Story of Trauma
04:57 The Turning Point: Seeking Therapy
05:42 Introduction to EMScast
06:34 Meet Jessica Nelson: A Pioneer in EMS Mental Health
09:54 The Importance of Confidentiality and Specialized Care
12:17 Effective Mental Health Practices for EMS Providers
19:54 Path for EMS: A Groundbreaking Initiative
30:37 Future Directions and Final Thoughts

Resources