In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson tackle one of the most nerve-wracking scenarios in EMS: the pediatric respiratory emergency. From the moment you see a gasping toddler in mom’s arms, you know this is a make-or-break call — and for many providers, it’s the one that keeps them up at night.

Chris kicks things off with a haunting real-life scenario that sets the stage for an in-depth conversation on how to recognize and respond to pediatric respiratory distress. Kelly, a seasoned PALS instructor with a knack for demystifying pediatrics, offers practical advice on assessing sick kids using tools like the Pediatric Assessment Triangle, reading subtle signs like head bobbing or limp limbs, and why the good ol’ basics — like BVM ventilation and suction — save lives.

From clinical pearls to mindset resets, this episode is a must-listen if you want to face your pediatric fears and come out stronger.

Memorable quotes

• “If we know that’s a weakness for our employees, what are we doing to help them make it a strength?”
• “You bring calm to the chaos. You bring presence to the panic. You bring hope to the people who are living their worst moment.”
• “This is not about just about a clinical challenge; but it’s a fear of getting something wrong.”

Enjoying the show? Email theshow@ems1.com to share your feedback.

When conflict flares up in your organization, do you fuel the fire or douse it with empathy? In this week’s episode of the Inside EMS podcast, Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson break down how to handle interpersonal drama and tough conversations like a leader — with calm, clarity and tactical empathy.

Tactical empathy isn’t about being soft; it’s about being smart. It’s the intentional art of listening, labeling emotions and showing people they’re seen — without letting things spiral into chaos or resentment. Drawing from leadership lessons, clinical psychology and their own missteps, Chris and Kelly lay out 5 solid tools you can start using immediately, from mirroring and eye contact, to setting respectful boundaries.

Whether you’re managing late shift changes, dealing with crew conflict or just trying to keep morale afloat, this is an episode that gives you actionable steps — not just leadership fluff.

Oh, and if you think “tactical” doesn’t belong in the same sentence as “feelings,” they’re here to prove you wrong.

• “Conflict is part of EMS. You cannot avoid it.” — Kelly Grayson

• “Empathy’s not a rescue mission. It’s a recognition moment.” — Kelly Grayson

• “The trick isn't avoiding conflict. It's learning how to handle it without crushing morale, without leaving the other side, or having one or both sides feeling that you're showing favorites or you're blind to their concerns.” — Kelly Grayson

Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you’d like to join us as a guest.

In this episode of Inside EMS, Chris Cebollero unpacks what it really means to be a field training officer and, spoiler alert: it’s not just about ticking boxes or passing protocols.

From the importance of professional modeling and emotional intelligence to the dangers of unchecked cynicism among senior field staff, Chris lays out why FTOs must be seen — and supported — as true leaders. He shares his own experiences as a clinical director, discusses how poor habits often trace back to lackluster FTO mentorship, and offers a full blueprint for building an FTO program that not only trains but transforms.

This isn’t about seniority; it’s about strategy. You’ll learn why ongoing training, peer-reviewed reappointments and subject matter ownership turn FTOs into the backbone of your EMS culture. Whether you’re an FTO, want to become one or oversee the program, this is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed.

• “My FTOs were gatekeepers to the organization, and it was important for them to set the standard of what that was going to look like.”

• “Don't assign the title and hope for the best. Right? Develop the role into a leadership position that inspires people daily.”

• “You can't build a strong workforce if your trainers aren't trained themselves.”

Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you’d like to join us as a guest.