"We Need To Find Our Voice": An Interview w/ Daniel Limmer [PAF_067]
Release Date: 10/10/2025
Paramedic AF
In this conversation, Daniel Mouring and Nightmare Medic delve into the complexities of unions in EMS and the evolving role of AI in emergency medical services. They discuss the benefits and challenges of union representation, emphasizing the importance of having a voice in the workplace. The conversation then shifts to the impact of AI on EMS, exploring how it can enhance patient care, improve efficiency, and assist in decision-making. They also touch on the need for accountability in the profession and the importance of adapting to changes in the industry. Takeaways: -Unions can provide...
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In this episode, Daniel and Michelle discuss the ongoing issues of sexism in the EMS field, the upcoming debate on gender roles, and the importance of merit over gender in hiring practices. They share personal experiences and statistics related to gender dynamics in EMS, emphasizing the need for both masculine and feminine energies in the profession. The conversation also touches on emotional regulation, the impact of societal norms, and the importance of nurturing and protective instincts in emergency services. Takeaways -The conversation highlights the ongoing sexism in EMS. -Debates about...
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This debate explores the ongoing debate about gender roles in emergency medical services (EMS), focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of male and female providers. The discussion covers various aspects, including physical fitness, mental health, compassion in care, and the impact of technology. Both speakers emphasize the importance of diversity and collaboration in EMS, while also addressing the challenges faced by providers of different genders. The conversation concludes with a call for high standards and a more inclusive approach to the future of EMS. Takeaways -Men and women bring...
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Daniel and Michelle discuss the challenges of maintaining a balanced lifestyle while working in public service, particularly in EMS. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries between work and personal life, engaging in hobbies, and fostering friendships outside of the EMS community to avoid burnout and maintain mental health. The discussion also touches on the concept of addiction within public service, highlighting how coping mechanisms can become detrimental if not managed properly. Takeaways -Create boundaries between work and personal life. -Don't let your job consume your entire...
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Work advice: -Be consistent -Be friendly with everyone, but friends with a few -Respect the chain of command, but don’t let it be a stick to beat you with. In this conversation, Daniel and Michelle shares insights and advice for aspiring EMTs and those in the emergency medical services field. The discussion covers the importance of consistency in work habits, the value of building rituals for mental health, navigating workplace relationships, and understanding the chain of command. They emphasize the need for emotional regulation, being friendly yet cautious with colleagues, and the...
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In this conversation, Daniel and Michelle discuss their experiences and insights related to EMT training and education. They share updates on their activities, including an upcoming summit and merchandise, and delve into advice for aspiring EMTs, emphasizing the importance of classroom strategies and being teachable in the field. Takeaways -You need to eat, breathe, and sleep your studies during EMT school. -You don't rise to the occasion; you fall to the level of your training. -Know what you don't know when entering the field. -Listen more than you speak in the classroom. -The importance of...
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Brad Lawson shares his extensive journey in EMS, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness among first responders. He discusses the evolution of community paramedicine, the significance of vulnerability in sharing personal stories, and the grassroots efforts to improve mental wellness. Brad emphasizes the challenges of leadership in EMS, the generational differences in the workforce, and practical strategies for fostering a supportive environment. He also introduces the North Carolina First Responder Mental Wellness Summit, aimed at creating a space for open dialogue and...
info_outlineParamedic AF
Brad Lawson shares his extensive journey in EMS, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness among first responders. He discusses the evolution of community paramedicine, the significance of vulnerability in sharing personal stories, and the grassroots efforts to improve mental wellness. Brad emphasizes the challenges of leadership in EMS, the generational differences in the workforce, and practical strategies for fostering a supportive environment. He also introduces the North Carolina First Responder Mental Wellness Summit, aimed at creating a space for open dialogue and...
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Daniel speaks with Nightmare Medic about his journey through EMS, the challenges faced during COVID-19, and the importance of mental health awareness in the field. They discuss the unique struggles veterans face in EMS, the need for better training and support for new EMTs, and the role of unions in advocating for mental health resources. Nightmare Medic shares personal experiences and insights on coping mechanisms, the cultural issues within EMS, and the importance of taking responsibility for one's mental health. Takeaways -Mental health in EMS is often overlooked and needs more focus....
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Daniel Mouring interviews Gary, an ER nurse with a diverse background in journalism and emergency medical services. They discuss Gary's journey into nursing, the challenges faced in the nursing culture, particularly regarding bullying, and the mental health aspects of working in both nursing and EMS. The conversation also highlights the differences in responsibilities and autonomy between nurses and paramedics, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in healthcare. Takeaways -Gary transitioned from journalism to nursing after realizing his passion for helping others. -He emphasizes the...
info_outlineDaniel, Michelle, and Dan Limmer discuss the challenges and solutions within the EMS field, focusing on education, recruitment, and the evolving standards of practice. Limmer shares his extensive experience in EMS and education, emphasizing the importance of clinical excellence and the need for higher standards in training. They explore the role of textbooks, the significance of national registry test prep, and the impact of degree requirements on the profession. The discussion also touches on the shift from psychomotor exams to more reliable assessment methods and the potential of hybrid education models in EMS training. In this conversation, Dan Limmer discusses the complexities of EMS education, the importance of intrinsic motivation, and the need for a stronger narrative to attract quality individuals to the field. They explore the challenges faced by EMS providers, including career advancement, the search for happiness, and the responsibility of educators to inspire students. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of mentorship, the evolution of EMS, and the vision for the future of the profession, culminating in a call for personal accountability and proactive change within the EMS community.
Takeaways
-The EMS field often lacks organized discussions on controversial issues.
-Dan Limmer has over 40 years of experience in EMS and education.
-Textbooks play a crucial role in shaping EMS education and standards.
-National Registry test prep is essential for aspiring EMTs and paramedics.
-Higher standards in EMS training can improve patient care.
-Recruitment and retention issues in EMS are often due to poor treatment of personnel.
-The evolution of EMS scope of practice is gradual but necessary.
-Degree requirements could enhance the respect and pay for EMS professionals.
-The removal of psychomotor exams was based on reliability concerns.
-Hybrid education models can be effective if implemented with quality in mind. The length of EMS programs impacts the quality of education.
-Intrinsic motivation is crucial for success in EMS.
-Educators have a responsibility to inspire and engage students.
-A strong narrative is needed to improve public perception of EMS.
-EMS providers must take ownership of their careers and happiness.
-Mentorship plays a vital role in professional growth.
-Different types of EMS providers have varying motivations and needs.
-Career advancement opportunities in EMS are often limited.
-Taking risks is essential for personal and professional growth.
-Finding balance in life and work is a challenge for EMS providers.
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Daily Debrief is a short-form podcast series airing Monday through Friday! Start your day with Paramedic AF Podcast host Daniel Mouring as he unpacks practical tips and mindset shifts for the everyday EMT and Paramedic!
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