Recorded live at the 2025 TASA Mid-Winter Conference in snowy Gatlinburg, this episode features candid conversations with four impactful guests who are shaping the future of EMS leadership. Outgoing TASA President Joyce Noles reflects on the importance of preparing the next generation by “growing your replacement,” encouraging transparency and mentorship across leadership roles. TEMSA President Shannon Morphis discusses the rising momentum among new EMS professionals and the power of shared leadership efforts to create lasting change. Brianna Browne—the only known survivor of a jump from the Natchez Trace Bridge—delivers a powerful message of resilience and mental health recovery, reminding providers that they may never know the true impact of their care. Rounding out the conversation, Metro Nashville EMS Deputy Director Fred Smith draws from decades of experience to stress the value of empowering others, stepping back, and leading with humility.

This episode also includes a ServeStrong sponsorship message from the Corbin Scott-Goad Memorial Foundation and provides updates on the upcoming 2025 TEMSA Conference in Murfreesboro, including an all-new student and new provider leadership track. Listeners will gain insight into the cultural shift in EMS, the strength of statewide collaboration, and how personal stories and professional mentorship are reshaping the leadership landscape.

·       Joyce Noles – "Grow your replacement":
Joyce highlights the generational shift in EMS leadership—emphasizing the need to equip and empower up-and-coming leaders rather than gatekeeping knowledge.

·       Shannon Morphis – "Momentum is real":
Shannon describes the groundswell of engagement from newer providers and emphasizes leadership development as a team effort, not an individual spotlight.

·       Brianna Browne – "You never know the impact":
Brianna’s perspective as a survivor reminds providers of the emotional weight and unseen impact of their work, underscoring the value of connecting with patient outcomes.

·       Fred Smith – "Empowerment over ego":
Fred shares powerful lessons from decades in EMS leadership, including the importance of stepping aside to let others lead and learning from both good and poor leadership examples.