Don't miss this episode as Eric and Kari dive headfirst into some of the most challenging conversations in EMS. From the debate over national degree requirements for paramedics to asking whether we're truly developing clinicians, or simply checking training boxes, no topic is off limits. Expect honest opinions, thoughtful discussion, a little laughter, and plenty of moments that will challenge the way you think about our profession.

The episode kicks off with what's new in life before jumping into one of the hottest discussions in EMS today: Should there be a national degree requirement for paramedics? Is higher education the next step in advancing our profession, or are there bigger issues we should be addressing first?

Then it's time for this week's Crew Poll, where airway enthusiasts weigh in:

If you had every airway device available and were about to intubate a patient, which laryngoscope would you reach for first and why?

In this week's Deep Dive, Eric and Kari take an honest look at EMS education and competency. Are we truly preparing clinicians, or are we simply checking boxes? They explore the responsibilities of agency leadership, the influence of medical directors on training culture, and what it takes to build providers who are clinically confident, not just technically competent.

The conversation continues with this week's Question from the Crew:
"What separates average providers from exceptional providers?"
The answers may challenge your perspective on growth, professionalism, and what excellence really looks like in EMS.

And, of course, the episode closes with another fun round of Top 3–5, where Eric and Kari debate life's important questions:

• Coffee, tea…or something else entirely?
• What's the best advice you've ever received?

Whether you're a new EMT, seasoned flight clinician, educator, or EMS leader, Episode 93 is packed with authentic conversation, practical insight, and the kind of discussions that continue long after the shift is over.

Clock in, settle in, and join Eric and Kari for another unforgettable shift on The Second Shift.

Second Shift is more than just another EMS podcast. It's a place where medicine meets real life, where the conversations continue long after the call is over. We'll tackle the topics that challenge us, make us laugh, frustrate us, and ultimately make us better clinicians and better people.

Eric brings more than three decades of experience in EMS, critical care transport, leadership, and education. Kari adds over 20 years as a firefighter, advanced practice paramedic, and educator, along with a practical, honest perspective that keeps every conversation grounded. Together, they combine experience, humor, differing viewpoints, and a shared passion for the profession to create a space where no topic is off limits.

In this premiere episode, you'll hear the story behind the return of Second Shift, what you can expect from future episodes, and why audience participation is at the heart of everything we do.

This week's lineup includes:

• Why Second Shift is back and where we're headed.
• Crew Poll: What piece of EMS equipment can make even the most experienced provider look incompetent?
• Current Events: The Elijah McClain case and what it means for our profession.
• This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things: Real stories from the EMS community that will make you laugh, shake your head, or both.
• Deep Dive: Violent attacks on first responders, why they're increasing and what we can do about it.
• Introducing Questions from the Crew, where your questions drive future episodes.
• Rapid Fire Questions to get to know Eric and Kari a little better.
• Top 3–5: Our favorite books that have shaped our careers and lives.
• Final thoughts to wrap up the shift.

Whether you're on the truck, in the aircraft, at the station, or driving home after a long day, grab a cup of coffee, your cold snacks, or whatever your drinking and pull up a chair. This is YOUR podcast as much as it is ours.

Welcome back to Second Shift. The conversation starts now.

Contact:

eric.bauer@flightbridgeed.com
kari.young@flightbridgeed.com
secondshift@flightbridgeed.com