In this episode of the Erik and Matt Show (EMS) Join Dr. Erik Axene and Firefighter/Paramedic Matt Ball as they dive into the essential skills and knowledge every EMS provider needs when caring for pediatric patients. In this episode, you’ll get practical tips, real-world scenarios, and expert insights to help you stay calm, confident, and effective in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned paramedic or new to EMS, tune in to learn how to improve outcomes and provide the best care for your youngest patients.

In this episode of the Erik and Matt Show (EMS), we dive into a groundbreaking article from August 2025 that questions the effectiveness of cervical collars. Analyzing data from nearly 4,000 studies, the article finds no evidence that cervical collars prevent secondary neurological deficits—a major shift for EMS practices. For years, applying a c-collar has been a fundamental protocol for trauma patients. Join Erik and Matt as they break down the findings and explore what this means for the future of EMS.

EMS providers at all levels should read this article and share it with leadership and medical directors to spark critical discussions.

In this episode of the Erik and Matt Show (EMS), we dive into the unique challenges of caring for obese patients, a growing population, particularly in the U.S. We explore the complexities of treatment, proper medication dosing, and ensuring provider safety when responding to these calls. Join us as we share insights and strategies for first responders to effectively manage and support patients struggling with obesity, while keeping safety first.

In this insightful episode of the Erik and Matt Show (EMS), hosts Erik and Matt explore the complexities of providing exceptional care for patients with special needs. From overcoming barriers like hearing or vision impairments to addressing physical challenges, such as working with patients in wheelchairs, or supporting those with autism, this episode dives into practical strategies for healthcare providers. Join us as we discuss how to navigate these challenges with empathy, ensuring every patient is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

In this episode of the Erik and Matt Show (EMS) we discuss the age old issue of when we should stay and play or load and go. The days of "give them a dose of diesel" are fading. We need to be doing what's best for our patients.

This is a complicated decision with several factors that play into it. To be a good practitioner you have to be able to make the best clinical decision for your patients. Sometimes the best thing you can do is get the patient to the hospital as quickly as possible and perform any necessary skills en route. Sometimes we need to take some time on scene to stabilize our patient and reduce their mortality. 

Listen is as Erik and Matt discuss this issue from both a prehospital provider perspective and a medical director perspective. 

In this episode of the Erik and Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball discuss health and wellness. There's so much misinformation out there on what it means to be "healthy." But what does it really look like to be a healthy person. It's not about having 6 pack abs or the latest diet craze. Dr. Axene has spent an extensive amount of time researching and speaking on this topic. He has personally made changes in his life that have led him to be a healthier person. Listen in as we discuss 6 pillars of health and wellness and make it simple to implement into your life.

In the episode of the Erik and Matt Show (EMS) we discuss the complex and time-critical world of submersion injuries. From drowning and near-drowning incidents to cold water immersion and secondary complications, Erik and Matt explore what really happens when the body is submerged and how to manage these patients.

We'll discuss prehospital considerations, and hospital management strategies, all while breaking down the physiology behind these life-threatening events. Whether you're a healthcare provider, first responder, or just curious about the science of survival, this episode offers a deep look at one of the most urgent challenges in emergency medicine.

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene, MD and firefighter/paramedic Matt Ball tackle a seasonally critical topic: hyperthermia. With record-breaking heat across the U.S., they break down how to recognize early signs of heat illness, differentiate heat exhaustion from heat stroke, and manage these patients effectively in the prehospital setting.

They walk through thermoregulation, common risk factors (including construction workers, firefighters, athletes, and the elderly), and emphasize rapid cooling techniques like ice baths, evaporative cooling, and creative on-scene solutions. The episode also covers EMS scene priorities, cooling strategies, complications like rhabdomyolysis, and why prehydration and on-scene rehab are essential for providers.

In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS), we sit down with Fire Chief Robert Reardon of Duxbury, Massachusetts, for a powerful conversation on leadership through adversity.

Chief Reardon opens up about navigating some of the toughest calls of his career and the emotional impact those moments had—not just on the firefighters he leads, but on himself. He shares how he worked to ensure his team had the support they needed, and how he confronted the often-overlooked mental toll of the job.

We dive into the critical challenge of bridging the gap between administration and operations, and how trust becomes the cornerstone of effective leadership. Without it, even the best intentions can fall flat. This is a must-listen episode for anyone in public safety—and anyone who wants to understand the human side of command.

Chief Robert Reardon LinkIn Profile:
www.robreardon.com

Airway management isn’t just about getting the tube, it’s about knowing when, why, and how to do it right. In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and firefighter/paramedic Matt Ball get real about what it takes to succeed in the field, from first-pass success to recognizing when not to intubate.

They break down the big four: trauma, pediatric, geriatric, and obese patients, plus lessons from decades of experience and why humility may be your best airway skill.

Whether you're in the ER or the back of a rig, this episode is packed with practical pearls to improve your prehospital airway game.