The Rogue Medic Podcast

 In episode one we will explore a little bit of why wilderness medicine is something of interest to a few different aspect of medicine. We also gain the perspectives of a few participants in our Wilderness & Expedition Medicine Symposium. Check it out! 

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Guests: 
Michael Tetwieler MD, CA
Sydney Miller NRP, CO
Jeff Lin MD, TX 

A zero-sum game is a situation in which one person's gain is equivalent to another's loss, so that the net change in wealth or benefit is zero. In the rescue world this means we only risk what is equal to our projected outcome. However, that is never the case in a rescue! We are always going to risk more than we receive. That means there is always the possibility that someone will not be coming home. 

Join us as we explore the controversy of risk and why the concept of "everyone goes home" has possibly made us so risk adverse that we may not be as effective in the field as we think. 

This is our longest episode, but the talk and content makes you feeling like it hasn't been that long!

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Guests: 
Josh Betts

​Jeff Kwiecien

Welcome back! In this episode the gang discusses some common issues with training and more specifically, verbalization training. As the title suggests we are pushing for effective use and advocating for you to get more hands on in your training program. Verbalization can be a powerful tool, but it needs to be used appropriately. In many cases though hands on skills iterations are being replaced by lazy training practices, because it is easier, cheaper, and requires less planning on the instructors part. This has led to some bad outcomes and some unrealistic field expectations. 

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Guests: 

Jeff Kwiecien
Josh Betts
Bill Boyd

Welcome to Beyond The Basement! In this episode we are going to get into the pit that is minimalist behavior in providers. As we do we will explore the pit that is the certification being good enough, then we will turn our attention to the alphabet soup, how to propel ourselves beyond the basement, what characteristics we need to hone to be able to be better, and finally how minimalist attitudes our hurting out profession! 

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Guests: 

Jeff Kwiecien
Max McCormac

Welcome back to the podcast! In episode 5 we are going to dive right in where we left off in Episode 4 and discuss a topic that is near and dear to our hearts. That is not accepting mediocracy. We all have seen it, heard it and complained about it. However, I am sure we have all felt trapped by it. Well hopefully we can give you a tool or two to deal with the "tools" that are okay being mediocre. However, we hope that we can give you incite into  some of the concepts that are necessary to produce high performing teams. 

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Guests: 

Jeff Kwiecien
Max McCormac

 Whether you know the 5, 7, 12, or nursing 16 rights for safe medication administration, they are all in place for the same reason. That being to safely provide a medication to a patient in need. Human factors in medication error are real and relevant. There has been some discussion through the years that the “five rights” do not consider the several other human factors that can lead to medication administration errors. This version is what I have adapted to better fit the EMS and field work realm. Many of the other nursing versions are very similar but are more in-patient or hospital orientated. EMS being the black sheep of the health care system, most of the changes that can be researched do not directly apply to us or require some adaptations anyway.  Take a listen as we explain what we are calling the 10 EMS "Rights" of Medication Administration. 

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone 

Welcome back to the podcast! In this episode we will discuss the controversial topic of lightweight rope rescue systems and some of the facts, myths and ideas to be able to utilize these systems in the field. We will describe what a lightweight rescue system is and some of the needs, suggested training requirements, and considerations for the deployment of lightweight rescue systems. 

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Guests: 

Jeff Kwiecien
Josh Betts

Chris Ruch - AMRG

We all have bad days. Sometimes we have bad months. Then sometimes we just don't understand why we are having trouble transitioning. In this episode we explore much of this with a friend of mine Adam Jones! Adam is the founder of Kingdom Operatives and he had cultivated a message of developing a mission mindset! He jumps on to talk to us about how we can avoid and conquer the "Weapons of Mass Deception" that rule our hearts and minds causing us to be distant and not our best self. Join us for this short episode as we explore how to be a more effective leader. 

As a special thank you for listening Adam is giving you unprecedented access to his book; Weapons of Mass Deception! By texting the work Kingdom to 55444, Adam's team will send you a link to read the first 3 chapters of the book! Of which I can tell you, you will want to read more! 

If you want to learn more about Kingdom Operatives and the book Weapons of Mass Deception, head to AdamFJones.com and learn more about his message and where you can buy the book! 

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Guests: 

Adam Jones - Kingdom Operatives

Welcome back to the podcast! In this episode we are going to discuss the International Board of Specialty Care Certification's Wilderness Paramedic Certification exam. We will talk about the exam without giving away any of the specific questions, and then discuss the resources we suggest using to study for the exam. Jason will also discuss his personal experience of taking the exam and his thoughts on the direction the exam may take the wilderness medical industry! 

Join us for this in-depth look a the WPC Exam! 

If you would like to share your experience with us on the show or would like to talk about what the exam may do for the industry, please reach out to us at Sergeant_RescueTng@outlook.com! We would love to talk with you about your experience and your thoughts on the exam! 

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Welcome back to the podcast! In this episode we are going to discuss what will most likely be a charged topic. That topic being the fiction of the existence of NFPA Rescue Certifications! Everyone that has worked in the rescue industries are always asked who trained them. Then if they are in the emergency services industry, they are asked if they have their "NFPA certification" or where they got their "NFPA Certification." We as an organization have been asked on multiple occasions if we issue "NFPA Certifications." But the truth and the fact is, there is no such thing. 

Join us for this in-depth look at what being "NFPA certified" really means!

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Guests: 

Jeff Kwiecien, Josh Betts

Welcome back to the podcast! In this episode we are going talk about medication errors and preventing them from the individual and departmental standpoints. This two sided topic is a follow on to our Medication Rights episode. This is one of our solo short episodes to help provide some incite into a real issue in EMS. Let us know what you think!  

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

 In this episode we are going to talk about a fun topic that can definitely be interpreted in several ways. This is also a topic we were excited to explore with everyone. In the world of backcountry rescue, SAR, or austere care, we see a constant question and debate floating around out there in many of the chat groups. That question being; how do we keep up with the standard of care in an austere care environment? We see some pretty heated debates and conversations around the idea. The other statement that comes up as well is “austere care has a different standard of care.”  What do you think? Better yet... Just take a listen and see if your idea measures up! 

Hosts:  Jason "Big J" Tartalone, Jeff Kwiecien

Guests:  Dr. Seth Collings-Hawkins & Dr. Chris Paluso 

 In this episode the team is going to talk about a simple concept to prepare for austere care environments effectively. In the world of backcountry rescue, SAR, or austere care, we see a constant question floating around out there…….What do you have in your MED bag? And if we are being honest with all of you listening; that is actually the wrong question to ask! The question of what is in your MED bag lacks a fundamental understanding of your environment and how to be an effective care provider in that environment. We would like to say that just like anything new there is a learning curve, but this is not a new concept. This is a concept that has existed for a very long time, but it is never taught during initial austere care education. Take a listen and learn our opinions of how to pack for austere care environments. 

Hosts:  Jason Tartalone, Jeff Kwiecien, Josh Betts 

 On this episode we are going to chat about one of the things that is near and dear to both of our hearts, Training Scars! These are extremely common and we all have them. Often times they are unconsciously created and can put lives in danger. I’m not talking about training scars like the black eye you get when your partner goes a little too hard while sparring or the scars you get when you cut your finger trying to quickly open your knife, or maybe the rope burn from not wearing gloves during rope training. The training scars I’m talking about are the unintentionally .00bad habits you have acquired during the course of your training.

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien 

 The term "60% Provider" refers to a scenario where a pre-hospital “professional,” typically highly trained and entrusted with people's lives, exerts only a fraction of their full potential. This concept is as detrimental to the provider as it is to the patients and the entire pre-hospital system. Understanding why this is not acceptable is crucial for maintaining the high standards required in emergency medical services. 

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone 

 On this episode the team analyzes why we should or should not possess austere medical care training! There are some obvious pros and a few obvious cons to having or seeking out austere medical care. Join us while our team digs deep into the whys, the benefits, and what we feel is missing from the current space and austere care training. Check out this awesome episode! 

Host - Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien 

 Welcome to Part 2 of the 60% provider. Part 1 was all Jason talking about the care and some safety aspects. In part to Jeff & Jason dive into some very different aspects and concepts of how being a 60% provider can be detrimental to the service and profession as a whole. We all want better conditions and we have seen and read all of the polls...........but are we doing what is needed to change our conditions and profession day to day? Or are we just giving the 60% effort and acting our wage. You decide after this episode. 

Host - Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien 

 On this episode we are going to explore some concepts to help build proficiency in your training environments. The concept we want to explore with you all today is reflexive task training. Reflex task training, often used in various fields such as sports, cognitive therapy, and military training, focuses on enhancing an individual's reaction times and reflexes. Many different fields have started to focus training efforts on reflexive task training. In the arena of medicine reflexive task training has actually been proven to improve patient outcomes. 

Host - Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien

Guest: Charlie Machula 

 In this episode we dive deep into some concepts in pain management and how we can be more effective with it in the field. Whether that be on the street or in the back country pain is the patients problem and we need to be able to effectively manage that. Listen in as we discuss this multifaceted topic! 

Host - Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien

Guest: Charlie Machula 

In this episode, 'Pain Management Part Deux,' we continue our deep dive into the critical world of pain relief in emergency medicine. Join us as we explore some different strategies and new ideas from Jeff's perspective relating to  managing pain for patients in the most challenging environments. From cutting-edge pharmaceuticals to innovative non-pharmacological approaches, we cover it all. Whether you're looking to enhance your pain management skills or just curious about the latest trends in emergency medical care, this episode is packed with information you won't want to miss. Tune in now for an enlightening journey back into the heart of pain management!

Host - Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien 

 In this eye-opening episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the unconventional yet profoundly impactful learning tool that is failure, particularly within the realms of wilderness medicine and rescue simulations. Unpack the nuanced benefits and explore the critical role that facing and overcoming failure plays in preparing individuals for the high-stakes challenges of real-world wilderness emergencies.

Join us as we navigate through the enhanced problem-solving skills, improved technical proficiency, increased resilience, and the unparalleled decision-making abilities that are fostered by integrating failure into training scenarios. Our journey doesn't stop there; we delve into the psychological impacts, the evolution of simulation technologies, and the ethical considerations of inducing failure in a controlled learning environment.

Host - Jason "Big J" Tartalone 

 
Podcast Episode

May 15, 2024

1 hr 3 min

What is the Fireline Medical Technician Course?

The Fireline Medical Technician Course is an intensive training program designed to equip emergency medical personnel with the specialized skills and knowledge necessary to provide medical care in the challenging and dynamic environment of wildland firefighting. This comprehensive course combines classroom instruction, hands-on skills training, and practical field exercises to prepare participants for the unique demands they may encounter while serving on Fireline incidents. Throughout the course, participants learn how to assess and treat injuries and medical emergencies commonly encountered in wildland firefighting, including burns, heat-related illnesses, trauma, and respiratory distress. 

In addition to medical skills, participants learn about Fireline safety protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE), and the Incident Command System (ICS) structure to effectively integrate medical operations with fire suppression tactics and strategies. Practical scenarios and simulations are employed to reinforce learning and develop critical thinking and decision-making skills under pressure. 

Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive the necessary certificates to be Fireline qualified and are equipped to serve as vital members of the Fireline medical team, providing essential care to injured personnel and contributing to the overall safety and success of wildland firefighting operations.

Host - Jason "Big J" Tartalone 

Guest: Lauren "Lo" Lane

In the high-stakes world of Search and Rescue (SAR), the difference between a successful mission and a tragic outcome often hinges on one crucial factor: certification. Join us in this compelling episode as we unravel the significance of certifications in SAR and other rescue disciplines .

What You’ll Discover:

• Safety First: Learn how certifications ensure the safety of both rescuers and victims, turning potential chaos into coordinated rescues.
• Skill & Standardization: Explore the rigorous training and standardized protocols that certified SAR teams undergo to prepare for the unknown.
• Trust & Collaboration: Understand how certifications build public trust and enable seamless collaboration between various rescue agencies.

Whether you’re a SAR enthusiast, a curious listener, or someone who values community safety, this episode sheds light on the unseen backbone of every rescue operation: the certifications that validate and empower SAR teams to perform under pressure.

Have questions or stories to share? Reach out to us on social media or via email. We’d love to hear from you! 

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

In today's episode, we tackle a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of trauma care: minimizing on-scene time to improve patient outcomes. Drawing from leading trauma courses like PHTLS, BTLS, and ITLS, we introduce a new acronym, MAST, designed to streamline your trauma care and response. 

Scene time is a critical factor in trauma care, and studies consistently show that longer on-scene durations negatively impact patient outcomes. We explore the universal agreement on the need for rapid transport and challenge common practices that delay patient movement. Finally, we underscore that transport is the priority, with numerous studies demonstrating that getting patients to definitive care quickly saves more lives than extended on-scene ALS interventions.

Join us as we dive deep into the MAST approach, offering you actionable insights and a fresh perspective on trauma care. Whether you're a seasoned medic or new to the field, this episode provides valuable knowledge to enhance your response and improve patient outcomes.

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone 

 In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the critical topic of redundancy in rope rescue operations. Redundancy is was a fundamental principle in ensuring the safety and success of rescue missions, providing multiple layers of backup to mitigate risks. Our expert guests, Mike and Sean from EMS On The Mountain, join us to share their invaluable insights and experiences from the field. Together, we explore various techniques, equipment considerations, and best practices that make redundancy hot topic in the rope rescue arena. We discuss where it may be beneficial and then also explore why this concept has become overkill in many situations. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to rope rescue, this episode offers practical advice and expert perspectives to enhance your understanding and application of redundancy in your rescue operations. Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion brought to you in partnership with Mike and Sean from EMS On The Mountain! 

Find EMS on The Mountain Here: https://www.emsonthemountain.com/

Host: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Guests: Mike & Sean from EMS On The Mountain 

In this episode, we delve into the Wilderness Medical Society’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Medical Direction of Search and Rescue (SAR) Teams. Join us as we explore the critical role of medical direction in SAR operations, uncover the development process behind these essential guidelines, and discuss their impact on the safety and effectiveness of SAR missions.

In Part 1 we speak with experts about the key recommendations outlined in the guidelines, the vital responsibilities of SAR medical directors, and the unique challenges faced in remote and austere environments. From legal and ethical considerations to the integration with local EMS systems. During this multipart series we will leave no stone unturned in understanding how these guidelines are shaping the future of SAR operations.

Whether you’re a member of a SAR team, a medical professional, or simply fascinated by the intersection of wilderness medicine and rescue missions, this episode offers invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of medical direction in search and rescue. Tune in to learn how these guidelines are not just saving lives but also setting new standards in wilderness medical care.

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien

Guests:

Dr. Michael Millin
https://www.austeremedicalprofessionals.org/

Dr. Jeff Thurman

Dr. Seth C. Hawkins 

WMS CPG: https://wms.org/WMS/WMS/Research/WEM/CPG.aspx?hkey=9d313906-4f7f-4b79-bc5a-007516f2c61c 

Part 1: "Breaking Down Rapid Extrication Modules: Team Composition & Standards"

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the NWCG's Rapid Extrication Module (REM) document, analyzing what it lays out for team composition, roles, and responsibilities. We'll examine the standards—or lack thereof—set by the NWCG and why this failure to establish a wilderness rescue protocol leaves critical gaps. Are these teams fully prepared for the challenges of backcountry rescue? Tune in to find out as we dissect the document and explore its real-world implications.

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien

Guests:
Felipe Valle

Jeff's Substack Link: https://jeffreykwiecien.substack.com/p/nwcg-standards-for-rapid-extraction

Part 2: "Gear Up: Essential Equipment for Rapid Extrication Teams – Part 1"

What should a properly outfitted Rapid Extrication team carry into the wilderness? In this first part of our two-part discussion, we focus on the critical life-saving equipment that these teams need to operate efficiently in remote, hazardous environments. From medical gear to personal protective equipment, we’ll talk through the tools that make the difference between success and failure in high-stakes rescues.

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien

Guests:
Felipe Valle

Part 3: "More Than Just Tools: Advanced Equipment for Rapid Extrication Teams – Part 2"

In the second half of our equipment discussion, we explore the specialized and often overlooked gear that can make or break a wilderness rescue mission. From advanced communication systems to technical rope rescue tools, we examine how the right equipment can enhance the performance and safety of REM teams. Join us as we complete the list of essentials and highlight what’s missing from the current NWCG guidelines.

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien

Guests:
Felipe Valle

Are you ready to elevate your paramedic skills to thrive in the most challenging environments? In this episode, we dive into the Wilderness Paramedic Upgrade Course—a dynamic hybrid program that blends hours of online learning with 30 hours of immersive, scenario-based training in the field.

Join us as we unpack what makes this course a game-changer for paramedics looking to master wilderness rescue, austere medicine, and patient care in remote settings. From advanced splinting techniques to hypothermia management and resource improvisation, we’ll walk through the hands-on curriculum designed to push your skills to the next level.

Plus, we’ll discuss how this course prepares you for real-world scenarios and why it’s becoming a must-attend for forward-thinking EMS professionals. Whether you're a seasoned paramedic or just starting your wilderness medicine journey, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and tips to inspire your next career move.

🎧 Tune in, and let’s take your paramedic practice beyond the beaten path.

Don’t forget to subscribe and share with your EMS colleagues who are ready for the ultimate upgrade!

Host(s): Jason "Big J" Tartalone

SAR Legalities: Navigating the Legal Landscape of Search and Rescue

Search and Rescue (SAR) isn’t just about skill, courage, and determination—it’s also about understanding the legalities that can impact every mission. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the often-overlooked legal complexities of SAR operations.

From liability and jurisdictional authority to the challenges of Good Samaritan protections, we’ll explore the legal frameworks that SAR teams need to know. How do you balance mission urgency with legal compliance? How can teams protect themselves and their agencies from potential lawsuits?

Our expert guests will share real-world scenarios, actionable tips, and essential resources to help SAR professionals navigate the murky waters of legal responsibility. Whether you're a SAR team leader, an operational member, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes aspects of rescue work, this episode is packed with critical insights to keep your team both effective and protected.

🎧 Don’t miss this essential conversation—your team’s next mission could depend on it.

Host(s): Jason "Big J" Tartalone

In this episode, we explore the use of "Kobayashi Maru" style no-win scenarios in medical training—situations designed to be unwinnable to teach providers about death, dying, and the emotional challenges of patient loss. Just like in Star Trek’s infamous test, these scenarios push medical professionals to confront the reality that sometimes, despite their best efforts, they cannot save every patient.

We discuss how these simulations help providers develop emotional resilience, improve decision-making under pressure, and foster compassionate care for both patients and their families. Tune in as we dive into the ethical dilemmas, personal experiences, and training philosophies that shape how we prepare medical professionals for the hardest moments they’ll ever face.

Host(s): Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien

In this episode, we delve into the Wilderness Medical Society’s Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Medical Direction of Search and Rescue (SAR) Teams. Join us as we explore the critical role of medical direction in SAR operations, uncover the development process behind these essential guidelines, and discuss their impact on the safety and effectiveness of SAR missions.

In Part 1 we spoke with experts about the key recommendations outlined in the guidelines, the vital responsibilities of SAR medical directors, and the unique challenges faced in remote and austere environments. From legal and ethical considerations to the integration with local EMS systems.

In Part 2 we are joined again by some great experts and discuss the challenges of providing medical direction to austere response teams, highlight more parts of the WMS's Clinical Practice Guideline for SAR Medical Direction, discuss the role of telemedicine and remote consultation, and then get some thoughts on what the future may look like!  

Whether you’re a member of a SAR team, a medical professional, or simply fascinated by the intersection of wilderness medicine and rescue missions, this episode offers invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of medical direction in search and rescue. Tune in to learn how these guidelines are not just saving lives but also setting new standards in wilderness medical care.

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien

Guests:
Dr. Jeff Thurman
Dr. Seth C. Hawkins 

“The Principles of Search: Art, Urgency, and Strategy in SAR”

When a person goes missing, time is critical—and so is the strategy. In this episode, we break down seven foundational truths that every Search and Rescue professional, volunteer, or agency must understand to be effective in the field. From treating search as a true emergency to knowing when (and when not) to deploy a grid search, we explore the mindset, tactics, and priorities that drive successful outcomes.

We'll cover:

• Why search is always an emergency
• How every mission is a classic mystery in need of critical thinking
• The importance of searching for clues and the subject simultaneously
• What to prioritize for the best chance of success
• How to recognize if the subject has left the area
• The correct order of search priorities
• Why a grid search should be your last resort

Whether you're a seasoned SAR operator or just getting involved, this episode lays out the core principles that separate a chaotic effort from a calculated, life-saving mission.

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone

Venom and Voices: A Conversation with Dr. Ben Abo

In this thrilling and insightful episode, we’re joined by the legendary Dr. Ben Abo — emergency physician, medical toxinologist, and venomous animal expert. We dive deep into the world of envenomation's, snakebite medicine, and the vital role of medical voice and advocacy in wilderness and austere environments.

From his frontline experiences with venomous creatures to his work shaping national protocols and wilderness medicine education, Dr. Abo brings a unique blend of science, stories, and soul. Whether you're an EMS provider, SAR medic, or simply a curious mind, this episode is packed with real-world takeaways and unforgettable moments.

🩺 Topics include:

• Common myths and truths about snakebites
• Best practices in prehospital envenomation management
• The reality of venomous species in the U.S.
• Building better communication between field responders and toxicologists
• Why advocacy and education are critical to saving lives

Strap in — it’s an episode that bites back (in the best way).

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff Kwiecien

Guests:  Dr. Ben Abo  - Venom 1 & 2 Florida

 Boots, Brains, and Backbone: The Weight of the FTO

In this episode, we get real about one of the most critical — and often underappreciated — roles in EMS: the Field Training Officer. Whether you're training fresh recruits or shaping seasoned providers, being an FTO isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s about leadership, mentorship, accountability, and setting the tone for a provider’s entire career.

We break down:

• The mindset shift from clinician to educator
• Why FTOs must model professionalism under pressure
• The dangers of complacency and “passing the problem along”
• How great FTOs build confident, competent, and safe providers
• Strategies for providing feedback that actually sticks

If you're an FTO, want to become one, or just want to understand the responsibility that comes with shaping the next generation of EMS providers — this one's for you. It’s not a title. It’s a duty.

Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone