Inside EMS

Conquering pediatric airway panic: Training, tools and tough truths

In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dive headfirst into one of paramedic's most anxiety-inducing scenarios: the pediatric airway. Despite decades of advancement, pediatric codes still strike fear into the hearts of even the most seasoned medics. So why hasn’t this gotten any easier?

Drawing on their own experience (plus a few nods to Dr. Peter Antevy), the duo emphasize the urgent need for high-fidelity simulation training, ongoing QA and competency-based training.

This episode’s packed with insights, strong opinions and a healthy dose of tough love for EMS systems that continue to send underprepared crews into high-stakes situations. If you’ve ever broken into a cold sweat over a pediatric call, this episode is for you.

Memorable quotes

• "When a mother hands you a 3-month-old in cardiac arrest, that’s not the time to figure out you’re uncomfortable." — Chris Cebollero

• “If you want the medic to intubate kids, you need cadaver labs, you need high fidelity simulation. You need to practice and you need to QA that practice. Most systems just can't provide that and without regular exposure, intubation becomes unsafe. And that's why I'd argue if you can't maintain your competency, you shouldn't carry the skill.” — Chris Cebollero

• “Kids aren't little adults. They do have more challenges. They do have bigger tongues. They do have floppier epiglottis, they do have smaller airways.” — Chris Cebollero

Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share feedback and suggest future guests. 

Is AI a partner in EMS — or its unpredictable coworker?

As artificial intelligence sweeps across industries, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson are asking the big question: Is EMS ready? In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, the duo gets into the weeds of how AI could reshape the field, from charting and documentation, to predictive deployment and real-time clinical prompts.

They dig into practical use cases, like auto-generating patient care reports from spoken narratives, using smart speakers for on-the-fly drug dosages and deploying AI in dispatch triage. But they’re not AI cheerleaders; both caution against overreliance, false confidence and the risk of replacing critical thinking with shortcuts.

It’s a spirited, funny and forward-looking conversation about how EMS can lead, not lag, in adopting this rapidly evolving tech. Because one thing’s clear: AI isn’t coming — it’s already here.

Memorable quotes

“I think the big issue that people have with AI is that they fear it’s gonna start doing our thinking for us rather than help us with everyday tasks. And to me, that’s a legitimate fear.” —Kelly Grayson

“When we open this door of where AI can touch EMS directly, I think there’s a lot of places this can go.” —Chris Cebollero

“I learned long ago that one of the tricks to the choreography of a smooth call is to think out loud and to talk, talk, talk your way through everything that you do. It’s interesting thinking about narrating that for the purpose ofan AI client to write your chart as you go.” —Kelly Grayson

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When kidneys strike back: What every medic should know

This week on the Inside EMS podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson shine a spotlight on the kidneys and their impact on patient outcomes. What starts as a chat about chronic kidney stones quickly dives into a sharp, clinical breakdown of renal anatomy, physiology and the far-reaching consequences of kidney dysfunction in EMS care.

Chris and Kelly unpack the kidneys’ role in fluid balance, blood pressure regulation and acid-base stability, including how the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) system can either save a patient … or make things worse. They outline the key types of acute kidney injury (pre-renal, intrinsic, post-renal), tie them back to underlying anatomy, and explain why perfusion matters long before labs confirm failure.

With field-focused tips on what to ask (yes, diaper counts matter), what to look for and how to manage critical complications, this episode gives medics the tools to recognize renal red flags early — and act fast.

Additional resources:

• Acute kidney injury assessment and treatment

• The science behind shock: Why providers must understand the RAAS

• Caring for the dialysis patient

• One for the Road: Is this a kidney stone?

Memorable quotes

• “In EMS, we don't really pay attention to the functioning of the kidneys until everything goes south.”

• “They're not lying when they say the kidneys are the windows to the viscera.”

• “Kidney problems don't happen in isolation.”

Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share feedback or suggest guests for a future episode. 

We’re not OK: The What Paramedics Want in 2025 report pulls no punches

Editor’s Note: Welcome to the What Paramedics Want podcast, sponsored by Pulsara. Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. One Tool. Every Day. Regardless of Event.

This week on the Inside EMS Podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson dive deep into the What Paramedics Want in 2025 industry report — and let’s just say, it’s not all sunshine and stable shifts.

The report, created in partnership with Fitch & Associates and sponsored by Pulsara, lays bare the hard truths: burnout is at an all-time high, staffing gaps are holding steady at crisis levels and confidence in leadership is lukewarm at best.

Chris and Kelly get real as they discuss some of the shocking stats — such as, only 59% of agencies report having enough staff to answer 911 calls, and 76% of respondents now cite burnout as a critical issue. But this isn’t just about fatigue; it’s about leadership gaps, lack of support and workplaces that are driving out even the most seasoned medics.

From the “mandatory overtime spiral” to why communication isn’t just nice — it’s a necessity — this episode tackles how broken systems are eroding morale and what leaders can (and must) do to change course. You’ll hear why stay interviews matter more than exit interviews, how marijuana use is creeping up as a stress escape, and the simple steps agencies can take to rebuild trust and retention.

Memorable quotes

• “If one-quarter of your work workforce says ‘we don't enjoy our jobs anymore’ and ‘we don't enjoy working for you anymore,’ you got a hell of a problem on your hands.” — Kelly Grayson

• “This isn't just burnout because of the things we're seeing.  This is because of staffing shortages. This is because of lack of funding. This is because of working overtime. This is because agencies are mandating overtime. And that's gonna lead to burnout.” — Chris Cebollero

• “What we have is a shortage of people who are willing to work for chump change and horrible working conditions.” — Kelly Grayson

Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One Tool. Every Day. Regardless of Event. Discover more at Pulsara.com.

Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share your feedback and suggest future guests.

White shirts, real talk: When the badge gets heavy

You’ve just been promoted — congrats, right? Not so fast. In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson get real about what it actually means to step into a leadership role. Spoiler alert: it's not just a new title and a gold badge. It’s a complete shift in responsibility, from caring for patients to caring for your people.

Together, they break down how new leaders often swing too far: either trying to be everyone’s buddy or going full micromanager. They talk servant leadership, earning trust daily, the power of listening and what “protecting your people from bad decisions above” really looks like.

If you're stepping into a new role — or trying to recover from a rocky start — this episode is packed with hard truths, some laughs and solid advice from two guys who’ve lived it.

Memorable quotes

• “Ask a lot of questions and give your subordinates some ownership over how decisions are made. They didn't get stupid overnight when you got a white shirt. They're still the good people they were before.” — Kelly Grayson

• “Leadership isn't a title, it's not a reward, it's a responsibility.  It’s a verb, not a noun, and you have to be able to show your leadership every day.” — Chris Cebollero

• “Leadership's not about perfection. It's about showing up every day and trying to get better. It's being present in the moment. You show up for your people, you help them be their very best, and you never stop learning how to lead better.” — Kelly Grayson

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Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at  theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you’d like to join us as a guest.

POCUS focus: Game changer or gimmick?

In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson are staying in the same hotel, but definitely not on the same page. The topic? Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) — is it the future of EMS, or just another flashy tool with little impact in the field? 

Chris opens the discussion with skepticism, calling POCUS a “ridiculous” tool that adds no value to his prehospital patient care. Kelly fires back with a defense of POCUS as a powerful, fast and non-invasive tool that can enhance clinical decision-making — if used right. 

It’s a spirited back-and-forth loaded with clinical scenarios, sarcasm and a lot of “whatever, man.” Whether you’re team “POCUS is progress” or “scan and stall,” this episode will get you thinking. 

Memorable quotes 

• “Ultrasound gives you another layer of decision-making support.” 

• “Point of care ultrasound gives me no ability to change the way I'm treating the patient.” 

• “It never is a bad thing to know more about the patient.” 

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Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you’d like to join us as a guest. 

The pediatric call that makes your stomach drop

In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson tackle one of the most nerve-wracking scenarios in EMS: the pediatric respiratory emergency. From the moment you see a gasping toddler in mom’s arms, you know this is a make-or-break call — and for many providers, it’s the one that keeps them up at night.

Chris kicks things off with a haunting real-life scenario that sets the stage for an in-depth conversation on how to recognize and respond to pediatric respiratory distress. Kelly, a seasoned PALS instructor with a knack for demystifying pediatrics, offers practical advice on assessing sick kids using tools like the Pediatric Assessment Triangle, reading subtle signs like head bobbing or limp limbs, and why the good ol’ basics — like BVM ventilation and suction — save lives.

From clinical pearls to mindset resets, this episode is a must-listen if you want to face your pediatric fears and come out stronger.

Memorable quotes

• “If we know that’s a weakness for our employees, what are we doing to help them make it a strength?”
• “You bring calm to the chaos. You bring presence to the panic. You bring hope to the people who are living their worst moment.”
• “This is not about just about a clinical challenge; but it’s a fear of getting something wrong.”

Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share your feedback. 

Tactical empathy: The leadership tool you’re not using enough

When conflict flares up in your organization, do you fuel the fire or douse it with empathy? In this week’s episode of the Inside EMS podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson break down how to handle interpersonal drama and tough conversations like a leader — with calm, clarity and tactical empathy.

Tactical empathy isn’t about being soft; it’s about being smart. It’s the intentional art of listening, labeling emotions and showing people they’re seen — without letting things spiral into chaos or resentment. Drawing from leadership lessons, clinical psychology and their own missteps, Chris and Kelly lay out 5 solid tools you can start using immediately, from mirroring and eye contact, to setting respectful boundaries.

Whether you’re managing late shift changes, dealing with crew conflict or just trying to keep morale afloat, this is an episode that gives you actionable steps — not just leadership fluff.

Oh, and if you think “tactical” doesn’t belong in the same sentence as “feelings,” they’re here to prove you wrong.

Memorable quotes

• “Conflict is part of EMS. You cannot avoid it.” — Kelly Grayson

• “Empathy’s not a rescue mission. It’s a recognition moment.” — Kelly Grayson

• “The trick isn't avoiding conflict. It's learning how to handle it without crushing morale, without leaving the other side, or having one or both sides feeling that you're showing favorites or you're blind to their concerns.” — Kelly Grayson

Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at  theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you’d like to join us as a guest.

Not just trainers: How FTOs build culture, confidence and hotshot crews

In this episode of Inside EMS, Chris Cebollero unpacks what it really means to be a field training officer and, spoiler alert: it’s not just about ticking boxes or passing protocols.

From the importance of professional modeling and emotional intelligence to the dangers of unchecked cynicism among senior field staff, Chris lays out why FTOs must be seen — and supported — as true leaders. He shares his own experiences as a clinical director, discusses how poor habits often trace back to lackluster FTO mentorship, and offers a full blueprint for building an FTO program that not only trains but transforms.

This isn’t about seniority; it’s about strategy. You’ll learn why ongoing training, peer-reviewed reappointments and subject matter ownership turn FTOs into the backbone of your EMS culture. Whether you’re an FTO, want to become one or oversee the program, this is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed.

Memorable quotes

• “My FTOs were gatekeepers to the organization, and it was important for them to set the standard of what that was going to look like.”

• “Don't assign the title and hope for the best. Right? Develop the role into a leadership position that inspires people daily.”

• “You can't build a strong workforce if your trainers aren't trained themselves.”

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Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you’d like to join us as a guest.

Fusion medicine meets EMS: Inside Utah’s newest care approach

When most people see red tape, they stop. Darin Johnson saw an opportunity. In this episode of Inside EMS, Chris and Kelly welcome Darin — a paramedic, operations supervisor and now urgent care owner — to break down how he helped spearhead Utah’s House Bill 14. The goal? Allow paramedics to practice to their full scope outside of traditional EMS settings. What started as a frustrating moment working in mobile IV therapy spiraled into a full-on legislative effort that took over 3 years to realize.

And guess what? It passed.

But Darin didn’t stop there. He then launched Mod Doc, a fusion-style urgent and primary care center in Draper, Utah, run with a team of paramedics, flight nurses and a nurse practitioner. The mission? Community-centered care that blends traditional and holistic approaches — and gives paramedics a real seat at the table.

This episode is a playbook for anyone ready to stop asking “Why not?” and start saying, “Watch this.”

Top quotes from Darin Johnson

• “I'm just trying to create fusion medicine. Kind of like when you go to a restaurant and you get fusion food. I just want to bring all the best parts of medicine together and provide the best care for people so they can have good quality of life.”

• “Paramedics should be expanding their scope of practice. We really should be utilizing our ability to operate in remote environments and in homes and everywhere else.”

• “I had a moment where I just stopped and went, ‘Wait, huh? You'll let me do all these things if I'm working for an EMS agency, but if I have all the same things in place working private than I can't do that.’ And it started this whole journey of wanting to understand why paramedics weren't recognized for their scope of practice in the private setting.”

Enjoying the show? Email the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you’d like to join us as a guest.