In this episode of the Erik and Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball discuss health and wellness. There's so much misinformation out there on what it means to be "healthy." But what does it really look like to be a healthy person. It's not about having 6 pack abs or the latest diet craze. Dr. Axene has spent an extensive amount of time researching and speaking on this topic. He has personally made changes in his life that have led him to be a healthier person. Listen in as we discuss 6 ...
Aug 04, 2025•56 min
In the episode of the Erik and Matt Show (EMS) we discuss the complex and time-critical world of submersion injuries. From drowning and near-drowning incidents to cold water immersion and secondary complications, Erik and Matt explore what really happens when the body is submerged and how to manage these patients. We'll discuss prehospital considerations, and hospital management strategies, all while breaking down the physiology behind these life-threatening events. Whether you're a healthcare p...
Jul 21, 2025•29 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , Dr. Erik Axene, MD and firefighter/paramedic Matt Ball tackle a seasonally critical topic: hyperthermia. With record-breaking heat across the U.S., they break down how to recognize early signs of heat illness, differentiate heat exhaustion from heat stroke, and manage these patients effectively in the prehospital setting. They walk through thermoregulation, common risk factors (including construction workers, firefighters, athletes, and the elder...
Jul 07, 2025•29 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , we sit down with Fire Chief Robert Reardon of Duxbury, Massachusetts, for a powerful conversation on leadership through adversity. Chief Reardon opens up about navigating some of the toughest calls of his career and the emotional impact those moments had—not just on the firefighters he leads, but on himself. He shares how he worked to ensure his team had the support they needed, and how he confronted the often-overlooked mental toll of the job. W...
Jun 23, 2025•1 hr 5 min
Airway management isn’t just about getting the tube, it’s about knowing when, why, and how to do it right. In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , Dr. Erik Axene and firefighter/paramedic Matt Ball get real about what it takes to succeed in the field, from first-pass success to recognizing when not to intubate. They break down the big four: trauma, pediatric, geriatric, and obese patients, plus lessons from decades of experience and why humility may be your best airway skill. Whether y...
Jun 13, 2025•55 min
Sepsis kills more patients than trauma or cardiac arrest, yet it’s often missed in the field. In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , Dr. Erik Axene and firefighter/paramedic Matt Ball break down everything EMS providers need to know about recognizing and managing sepsis before the ambulance bay doors. They cover real patient cases, why traditional screening tools fall short, and the evolving role of data, end-tidal CO₂, and even AI in improving outcomes. Whether you’re rural or urban,...
May 26, 2025•52 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and firefighter/paramedic Matt Ball talk candidly about EMS in the modern fire service. From the glamorized expectations in recruitment ads to the daily reality of medical calls, they dig into the cultural gap between perception and practice. The episode explores how fire-based EMS providers can better embrace their role in patient care, the importance of staying clinically sharp, and why saving lives doesn’t always look like pullin...
May 12, 2025•29 min
STEMI is out. OMI is in. In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Axene and Matt Ball unpack the newest data on occlusive myocardial infarction (OMI) criteria—and why sticking to traditional STEMI patterns could cause you to miss up to 34% of heart attacks. They break down the April 2025 literature, discuss real-world EMS implications, and challenge every provider to rethink how they read 12-leads. Whether you're a medic, medical director, or firefighter-paramedic, this one's a must-...
Apr 15, 2025•30 min
The record has been set—but it almost didn't happen. In this follow-up episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball break down the chaos, comedy, and close calls from their 3,200-mile ambulance journey. From mechanical failures and border stops to alligator wrangling and Chick-fil-A-fueled escape rooms, the duo recounts how this wild idea became a certified Guinness World Record. More than a stunt, the trip doubled as a mobile classroom—capturing real-world CE content t...
Mar 31, 2025•56 min
What does it take to set a Guinness World Record for the longest EMS ground transport? In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball reveal their ambitious plan to take the oldest licensed ambulance in the U.S. on a record-breaking journey across the country. Along the way, they’ll film content for an upcoming EMS lecture bundle, visit fire stations, and prove that education doesn’t have to be boring. But will they actually break the record? Tune in to hear their ...
Mar 29, 2025•25 min
Whole blood transfusions are gaining momentum in EMS, but how do they work in the field? In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball sit down with EMS medical directors Dr. Joshua Bobko, Dr. Mark Gamber, and Dr. Cynthia Simmons to break down the science, real-world applications, and the logistical challenges of whole blood programs. From trauma cases to medical emergencies, discover how prehospital transfusions are changing the game for paramedics and firefight...
Feb 24, 2025•1 hr 7 min
Massive hemorrhage is the leading cause of death in trauma, and EMS providers often have just seconds to intervene. In this episode, Erik and Matt discuss hemorrhage control techniques that save lives both in the field and in extreme environments. Whether you're a combat medic or an average citizen, it's important to know how to stop bleeding in a patient. Hemorrhage is the leading cause of death in trauma. Tune in as we discuss this simply but extremely important patient population.
Feb 17, 2025•29 min
Criminal charges against EMS providers are becoming more common, and the latest case out of Sioux City has the EMS world on edge. A paramedic is facing manslaughter charges after mistakenly administering a paralytic instead of a sedative—resulting in a tragic patient outcome. Are EMS providers now at legal risk for honest mistakes? What can we learn from this case? And how can EMS professionals protect themselves while providing lifesaving care?
Feb 03, 2025•17 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , we tackle one of the most common questions we get: Should paramedics go to nursing school or med school? Erik and Matt share their personal journeys through nursing and medical school, comparing them to their time in paramedic school. What’s different? What’s harder? What should you expect? Whether you’re looking to advance your EMS career or are simply curious about these career paths, this episode is packed with insights, advice, and a healthy dose o...
Jan 20, 2025•30 min
Mass casualty incidents (MCIs) have unfortunately become a more frequent reality. In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show, Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball reflect on the tragic New Orleans attack that left 15 dead and dozens injured. They dive into the principles of effective MCI response, emphasizing the importance of triage, hemorrhage control, and teamwork. Whether you're an EMT, paramedic, or simply looking to understand the challenges first responders face, this episode is packed with action...
Jan 07, 2025•28 min
As first responders, EMS professionals often encounter situations others don’t—inside homes, in unsafe environments, and during moments of crisis. In this sobering episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball explore the critical role EMS plays in recognizing and reporting child abuse. From physical exam patterns to the "Ten Four Faces P" mnemonic, this discussion equips first responders with tools to protect children and navigate one of the most challenging aspects of the jo...
Dec 16, 2024•29 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball emphasize the importance of consistent exercise and forming healthy habits tailored for first responders. They delve into practical strategies for breaking through fitness plateaus, building discipline, and leveraging community support to stay motivated and achieve lasting results.
Dec 09, 2024•30 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball tackle the critical topic of vitality, the fifth pillar of the THRIVE series. They dive into how mental health impacts overall well-being, sharing personal stories, strategies for resilience, and the importance of community support for EMS professionals facing frequent trauma.
Dec 02, 2024•31 min
For first responders and medical professionals, holidays often mean more than festive celebrations—they mean sacrifices and balancing acts. In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show, Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball share their unique experiences working through Christmas, Thanksgiving, and even Super Bowl Sunday. From trading shifts to finding joy in unconventional holiday celebrations, this episode highlights the challenges and rewards of serving others during the most festive times of the year....
Nov 26, 2024•12 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball dive into the fourth pillar of THRIVE: Intake . They explore how choices around food, drink, and even mental stimuli impact overall health and wellness. With insights into the benefits of a balanced diet, tips for choosing whole foods, and the dangers of processed foods, this discussion equips EMS professionals with practical advice for a healthier lifestyle.
Nov 25, 2024•30 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball focus on the importance of Rest as the third pillar of THRIVE for health and wellness. They discuss the science behind sleep, share practical tips for managing sleep apnea, and highlight restorative practices like meditation and hobbies that EMS professionals can use to recharge. Understanding rest's role in overall health is essential for high-stress professions like EMS, where recovery impacts both performance and long-te...
Nov 18, 2024•30 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball dive into the second pillar of THRIVE— health . Covering key points like weight tracking, blood pressure checks, cancer screenings, and cholesterol management, this episode is a must-listen for those dedicated to their health and long-term success as first responders. Stay informed, proactive, and ready for any emergency with these vital health insights.
Nov 11, 2024•30 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball dive into the first pillar of THRIVE— team . They explore how building strong relationships and community among EMS professionals can improve both personal and professional well-being. From the importance of accountability to the unique camaraderie in the EMS field, this episode sheds light on how teamwork drives better health outcomes for first responders.
Nov 04, 2024•30 min
In this episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball discuss the critical importance of health and wellness for first responders. Erik, who has spoken across the country on this topic, emphasizes that keeping ourselves healthy is one of the best ways to serve others. He introduces the THRIVE acronym, which outlines the six pillars of health and wellness. Join us over the next several weeks as Erik and Matt dive into each pillar and explore this essential topic for EMS ...
Oct 28, 2024•30 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show (EMS) , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball explore the crucial components of mega code paramedic training. From the perspective of a medical director and a seasoned FTO, they discuss the challenges and strategies for passing a mega code evaluation. Whether you're a new paramedic in training or an experienced first responder, this episode provides valuable insights into mastering EMS skills under pressure.
Oct 21, 2024•30 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball continue to discuss the vital differences between Occlusive Myocardial Infarction (OMI) and STEMI, two critical conditions that can make the difference between life and death in pre-hospital care. While STEMI recognition has long been the standard, new research shows that focusing solely on STEMI could lead to missing up to 25% of heart attack patients. Tune in as Erik and Matt discuss essential EKG patterns and what every ...
Oct 15, 2024•30 min
In this episode of The Erik and Matt Show , Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball break down the vital differences between Occlusive Myocardial Infarction (OMI) and STEMI, two critical conditions that can make the difference between life and death in pre-hospital care. While STEMI recognition has long been the standard, new research shows that focusing solely on STEMI could lead to missing up to 25% of heart attack patients. Tune in as Erik and Matt discuss essential EKG patterns and what every EMS provi...
Oct 07, 2024•30 min
In this episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene shares his unique experience as an Airway Management Physician (AMP) with the Dallas Cowboys. The NFL employs AMPs to be on the sidelines at every game, ready to respond to any medical emergency. Tune in to hear about Erik’s role, the responsibilities of an AMP, and the critical importance of airway management in professional sports. Discover more EMS resources, training programs, and expert insights on our website: https://axenec...
Sep 30, 2024•30 min
In this episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball dive into the world of tattoos. Getting a tattoo is a big decision, and Matt, who has several tattoos, shares his experiences while Erik, who is considering getting one, explores the pros and cons. From designing tattoos in college to working in a tattoo removal clinic, Erik discusses the medical side of getting inked, while Matt provides insights from his extensive time under the needle. Tune in for a balanced discu...
Sep 23, 2024•29 min
In this episode of the Erik & Matt Show (EMS), Dr. Erik Axene and Matt Ball share their philosophy on EMS education. With Dr. Axene’s extensive background as an educator—holding a master’s degree in education and experience as a physics teacher before becoming a physician—and Matt’s experience teaching EMS in college settings and providing continuing education to hundreds of firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics, they offer a unique and effective approach to teaching. If you’ve ever seen one of...
Sep 16, 2024•27 min
