First Responders Episodes
Focus on the experiences, challenges, and stories of first responders across various disciplines, showcasing their dedication and the realities of their service.
Nov. 9, 2026
Whats Holding EMS Back | Jimmy Apple
Jimmy Apple, also known as the EMS Avenger, joins The Line & The Oath to talk about his path from electrical contracting to a more than 20-year career as a paramedic and what it will take for EMS to build a stronger future. The conversation explores EMS education and degree pathways, how paramedic resources are deployed, funding and reimbursement challenges, and the need for a clearer professional identity. Jimmy and Tony also discuss leadership, workplace culture, burnout, and the power of k...
Nov. 2, 2026
Its Okay Not To Be Okay | Michael Mejia
Michael shares his inspiring journey from aspiring aerospace engineer to dedicated firefighter and paramedic. He discusses leadership, the importance of continuous learning, and mental health in emergency services. In this episode, Michael shares his insights on mental health, honor guard, and the importance of brotherhood among first responders. The conversation highlights the need for open dialogue, purpose, and community support in the emergency services profession. michael.mejia@forged...
Guest: Michael Mejia
Oct. 5, 2026
Built For The Frontline | Nick Wyborn
In this episode, Nick Wyborn shares his diverse experiences across policing, firefighting, emergency response, and mental health advocacy. Discover insights on resilience, mental health support, and how first responders can better care for themselves and each other. Frontline Collective Website
Guest: Nick Wyborn
Aug. 14, 2026
CPR Changes Everything | Brad & Kiera Newbury
In this episode, Tony interviews Brad and Kiera Newbury, authors of The Saved Effect, about the power of life-saving decisions, the importance of EMS education, and the emotional impact of their stories. They share insights from their careers, the motivation behind their book, and how they aim to inspire action and improve patient outcomes. resources The Saved Effect Website Facebook Instagram Tiktok
Guests: Brad Newbury MPA, NRP , Kiera Newbury BA, NREMT
June 12, 2026
Follow The Beacon | Jason Segal
Join us as Jason Siegel, a seasoned paramedic rescue specialist with over 20 years of experience, shares his journey from growing up with a paramedic father to working in oil and gas, hyperbaric medicine, and aviation rescue. Discover the diverse venues of medicine, the importance of calmness in high-stakes situations, and insights into helicopter rescue operations.
Guest: Jason Segal
May 22, 2026
Changing The Response | Kayla Illsley
In this episode, Kayla shares her journey from volunteer firefighter to paramedic, wildland medic, and eventually law enforcement officer with the Airway Heights Police Department. We talk about the reality of crisis calls, trauma-informed policing, peer support, and the growing need for stronger partnerships between public safety and mental health professionals. We also discuss her work on the West Plains Crisis Response Team and alongside Crisis Response K9 Tonks, helping create calmer, mor...
Guest: Kayla Illsley
May 8, 2026
Calm In Chaos | Jon DeOliveira
Join us as Jon DeOliveira, a seasoned EMS professional with over 20 years of experience, shares insights on EMS operations, training, and the importance of humility and continuous learning in emergency services. Discover practical tips, system differences, and personal stories that highlight the realities of EMS work. Jon shares insights on EMS training, mental resilience, honor guard experiences, and the importance of community and continuous learning in emergency services. In this episode, Jon...
Guest: Jon DeOliveira
March 27, 2026
Behind The Headset | Erica Roberts
In this episode, we sit down with Erica Roberts for a real conversation on dispatch, leadership, communication, and what it actually takes to stay calm when everything around you is chaos. Erica shares how her journey in emergency communications began, what she has learned from more than 20 years behind the headset, and why dispatchers play a far bigger role in public safety than most people realize. From high-pressure calls and training mindset to the disconnect between dispatch and the field, ...
Guest: Erica Roberts