JEMS Spotlight: How Memphis Fire Department Cracked the Code on Recruitment and Retention

Memphis (TN) Fire Medic Stephen Zachar breaks down how his department tackled the nationwide recruitment crisis in firefighting and EMS.

Moving past outdated hiring tests, Memphis revamped the entire process by prioritizing interviews, valuing real-world experience, and replacing the traditional Candidate Physical Ability Test with a coachable physical fitness matrix.

Steven reveals how placing paramedics strategically across all units, not just ambulances, slashed burnout and boosted job satisfaction. Their innovative approach cut paramedic attrition by 60% and achieved a remarkable 75% retention rate overall.

With over 800 hires from 40 states, Memphis offers a blueprint focused on respect, career growth, and financial literacy from day one.

The JEMS Report: Women’s Health Challenges in EMS and Fire Service Culture Description: Stephanie White sits down with Stacee Ramirez and Dani Landholm to explore the overlooked health challenges women face in fire and EMS roles. Drawing from Stacee’s extensive study revealing widespread reproductive health struggles, silent miscarriages, and the cultural stigma around pregnancy in male-dominated emergency services, the conversation uncovers a deep-seated culture of silence and blame. Dani, a member of the International Association of Fire Fighters’ Female Health & Safety Standing Committee, shares personal experiences and discusses how outdated policies and lack of support impact women’s ability to advocate for themselves. They highlight the urgent need for cultural change alongside policy reforms to create safer, more inclusive work environments.

Not A-Fib Podcast : Gwenny Winkler on Critical Care, Coaching and Embracing Growth

Veteran flight nurse and educator Gwenny Winkler shares her journey from accelerated nursing programs to helicopter EMS and becoming a sought-after critical care instructor. Gwenny opens up about the steep learning curve when transitioning from emergency department nursing to flight nursing and the rapid evolution of tools like blood transfusions and advanced ventilators in air medical transport. She dives into her passion for education through social media, emphasizing the importance of understanding the “why” behind protocols, not just memorizing facts. Gwenny offers insights on coaching across all experience levels, tackling EMS culture challenges, and balancing professional identity with personal life. She also discusses her unique approach to engaging learners with authentic, down-to-earth content on TikTok and Instagram.