Shows
RideAlong: EMT SchoolThe Headbangers Ball (Head and Skull Trauma)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...
2026-03-232h 28RideAlong: EMT SchoolBob Waddell – SAM Medical (RideAlong Interview)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...
2026-03-181h 34RideAlong: EMT SchoolBoulevard of Broken Bones (Musculoskeletal Trauma)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 se...
2026-03-162h 35RideAlong: EMT SchoolThis Fire Burns, Always (Burns)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 pa...
2026-03-092h 25RideAlong: EMT SchoolThe Land of Contusion (Soft-Tissue Trauma)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 sp...
2026-03-022h 17RideAlong: EMT SchoolDr. John Croushorn - Compression Works (RideAlong Interview)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 environm...
2026-02-251h 45RideAlong: EMT SchoolI'm Bleeding Me (Bleeding and Shock)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 tradit...
2026-02-232h 06RideAlong: EMT SchoolChris & Spencer - EMS 20/20 (RideAlong Interview)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 li...
2026-02-161h 46RideAlong: EMT SchoolI Don’t Need Your Civil Warfarin – Hematologic & Renal EmergenciesI 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 p...
2026-02-111h 51RideAlong: EMT SchoolStep Back From That Ledge My Friend (Psychiatric Emergencies)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...
2026-02-022h 11RideAlong: EMT SchoolLet The Fear Take the Wheel and Steer (Graduation & EVOC)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...
2026-01-262h 09RideAlong: EMT SchoolROSC You Like a Hurricane (Resuscitation)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.comDefibtechhttp...
2026-01-192h 36RideAlong: EMT SchoolFour Quadrant Death Hunch (Abdominal Emergencies)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 We...
2026-01-132h 08RideAlong: EMT SchoolThe Bitter Taste of Poison (Poisonings & Overdose)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...
2026-01-051h 55RideAlong: EMT SchoolGet Down with the Sepsis (Infectious Disease & Sepsis)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 s...
2025-12-292h 03RideAlong: EMT SchoolRash Against the Machine (Allergic Reactions)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...
2025-12-221h 47RideAlong: EMT SchoolStroke Me, Stroke Me (Stroke and Seizures)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://ww...
2025-12-151h 24RideAlong: EMT SchoolPour Some Sugar Down Me (Diabetic Emergencies and Altered Mental Status)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...
2025-12-081h 53RideAlong: EMT SchoolKickstart My Heart (Cardiac Emergencies)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 fr...
2025-12-011h 10RideAlong: EMT SchoolI'm Down to One Last Breath (Respiratory Emergencies)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 emerge...
2025-11-241h 27RideAlong: EMT SchoolI Don't Try the Drugs, but the Drugs Try Me (Pharmacology)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...
2025-11-171h 37RideAlong: EMT SchoolThe Write Stuff (Reassessment, Communication & Documentation)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...
2025-11-101h 13RideAlong: EMT SchoolSteven Norman - Indianapolis Paramedic (RideAlong Interview)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-v...
2025-11-091h 46RideAlong: EMT SchoolThe interview of a lifetime (Secondary Assessments)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 o...
2025-11-031h 18RideAlong: EMT SchoolRideAlong Update (EMS World Expo)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...
2025-10-301h 38RideAlong: EMT SchoolFirst Impressions Matter (Scene Size-Up, Primary Assessment)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...
2025-10-271h 19RideAlong: EMT SchoolProof of Life (Vital Signs)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 co...
2025-10-201h 30RideAlong: EMT SchoolAnd She’s buying an Airway to Heaven (Airway Management & Ventilation)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, an...
2025-10-131h 23RideAlong: EMT SchoolProve It or Lose It (Competency Verification & Skills Check)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...
2025-10-0648 minRideAlong: EMT SchoolStayin’ Alive (CPR Training and Certification)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 clin...
2025-09-291h 11RideAlong: EMT SchoolFrom Cradle to Grave (Life Span Development)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 tr...
2025-09-221h 03RideAlong: EMT SchoolMalfunction Junction (Pathophysiology)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.
2025-09-151h 06RideAlong: EMT SchoolTalk Nerdy to Me (Medical Terminology & Anatomy Basics)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...
2025-09-081h 12RideAlong: EMT SchoolWhy EMT School? (Registration, EMT Well-being)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 al...
2025-09-011h 01RideAlong: EMT SchoolSurviving Week One (Diving In To EMS)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.Epi...
2025-09-011h 30RideAlong: EMT SchoolMoral Quandaries & Hip Throws (Legalities, Ethics, and Moving Patients)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.
2025-09-011h 19RideAlong: EMT SchoolRideAlong: EMT School Podcast (Season 1)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 curi...
2025-08-2903 min