the260

Not every difficult call makes the evening news. Sometimes it's the pediatric patient, sometimes it's a familiar face, and sometimes it's a seemingly routine call that stays with you long after the shift ends.

In this episode of the260, Kaitlin and Taylor sit down with Lieutenant Emmanuel Rodriguez for an honest conversation about the calls that affect first responders. Together, they share personal experiences, discuss why difficult runs are different for everyone, and talk about healthy ways to process the emotional impact of this profession. From critical incidents to the calls that quietly linger, this conversation is a reminder that no one has to carry the weight alone.

Resources for First Responders & Their Families

• RemedyLIVE – Confidential peer support, mental health resources, and crisis support for first responders and their families. Learn more at remedylive.com or call/text 988 if you're in immediate crisis.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 anytime in the United States, or visit 988lifeline.org to chat online.

Conflict is something we all face, whether it's on a call, in the station, or in everyday life. In this episode of the260, we sit down with Lt. Emmanuel Rodriguez to discuss practical approaches to conflict resolution. We talk about common situations first responders encounter, why communication is often the key to resolving disagreements, and simple techniques that can help build stronger teams and healthier working relationships.

In this episode, Taylor and Kaitlin sit down with Dr. Clay Smith, founder and Chief Spoon-Feeder of JournalFeed, to discuss what every EMS provider and emergency clinician should know about nitazenes. Together, they explore where these drugs came from, why they're becoming more prevalent, how they compare to fentanyl, what signs and symptoms providers should recognize, and the current approach to treatment and overdose management.

https://journalfeed.org/

What happens when EMS goes beyond responding to 911 calls?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Eric Yazel, Indiana's EMS Medical Director, to discuss Mobile Integrated Health and the impact it can have on patients, EMS agencies, and the communities they serve. We talk about what Mobile Integrated Health is, how these programs help reduce unnecessary emergency department visits, improve patient outcomes, and create stronger partnerships across healthcare systems.

In this episode of the260, Kaitlin and Taylor sit down with Aaron Ross, Support Service Manager at Three Rivers Ambulance Authority. Aaron shares the unique path that led him into his current role, starting with an unexpected injury and a temporary light duty assignment.

Instead of simply completing chart audits, Aaron recognized opportunities for improvement and took the initiative to create solutions that ultimately shaped a new position within the organization.

How did the Fort Wayne Fire Department become what it is today?

In this episode of the260, we sit down with Dennis Giere at the Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum inside Station 3 to explore the rich history of the Fort Wayne Fire Department and the evolution of the fire service.

From horse drawn fire apparatus and volunteer companies to the department's first paid firefighters and the modernization of firefighting, Dennis shares fascinating stories and historical milestones that helped shape both Fort Wayne and the fire service as a whole.

This episode is a great reminder that understanding where we've been helps us appreciate where we are today and provides valuable perspective for the future of our profession.

What can the American fire and EMS service learn from Germany?

In this episode, we sit down with Deputy Chief Cody Brooks and Assistant Chief Jonathan Flickinger after their visit to one of Fort Wayne's sister cities in Germany. They share what they experienced firsthand, from station design and apparatus to firefighting tactics, training, and daily operations.

The conversation explores the differences between the two services, but also highlights the common ground they discovered. No matter the country, first responders share the same commitment to serving their communities and taking care of one another.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way we learn, teach, and work—and EMS is no exception.

In this episode, Taylor Finn sits down with Mike from Rescue Academy to explore how AI is shaping the future of emergency medical services. They discuss practical ways providers and educators can use AI to improve lesson planning, streamline administrative tasks, create training scenarios, enhance critical thinking, and even support decision-making in the field.

Whether you're an EMS educator, field provider, or simply curious about where technology is taking our profession, this conversation offers practical tips, real-world applications, and insight into using AI as a tool

YouTube Linkhttps://www.youtube.com/@rescueacademyEMS/videos

 linktr.ee/rescue_academy

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses the death of a child and may be difficult for some listeners.

In this deeply emotional episode of the260, we sit down with David Hughes to talk about the life and loss of his son, Drew. Together, we discuss the events surrounding Drew’s case, including concerns involving the misuse of RSI protocols and the overall management of his care.

While this conversation is heartbreaking, it also serves as an important reminder of the responsibility we carry in EMS and healthcare. Drew’s story highlights why patient advocacy, critical thinking, communication, and accountability matter on every single call.

Our hope is that this episode not only honors Drew’s memory, but also encourages meaningful conversations that help improve patient care and prevent tragedies like this from happening again.

To learn more about Drew’s story and the mission behind the foundation, visit Do It For Drew Foundation

We’re joined by Whitney for a powerful conversation on leadership that resonates across all ages and experience levels. From developing confidence as a young leader to refining your approach over time, this episode delivers practical advice that applies far beyond EMS. The lessons shared are adaptable, relatable, and relevant to anyone looking to lead more effectively.

Lead Boldly Website

https://www.leadboldlylearning.com

Lead Boldly Manager Experience Class

https://www.leadboldlylearning.com/services-1

BooksExtreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win

https://a.co/d/bLlWzr3

Radical Candor: Fully Revised & Updated Edition: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity https://a.co/d/bOytVrd

Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know

https://a.co/d/guhopzh

A Minute to Think: Reclaim Creativity, Conquer Busyness, and Do Your Best Workhttps://a.co/d/arwS3J1

When They Win, You Win: Being a Great Manager Is Simpler Than You Think

https://www.amazon.com/When-They-Win-You-Manager/dp/B09GDGCZ4Y/ref=sr_1_1?crid=KQVV47TLTXFD&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.OkoXhEg2t3WO4t_EHjjwoIjD2Ab2A7-TfVvfP5TqurfAfHoKXwZ_HiHdpkP7iX-LfndfTAtndQy-bMnzqFnLhgV4Yg_BDurcYRufzlVoL4uhy5lGQiMlDAdYR0t88f5KNZ4rtbd5b_VYv7SLyjNN4IqtD2aifD12Q6-svnawCAvkdXSwDfHVonjKnI4m7MpPhU-_4IlAhQbKVD1UHOIM_uUulY6dHRVJ0K9TFoJwUNI.3ghA1iPJaMSNpJfgRYjppoZu9MhN_AyMOOBHWygTPZc&dib_tag=se&keywords=win+they+win+you+win+book&qid=1769086642&sprefix=win+they+win+you+win+book%2Caps%2C250&sr=8-1