Speakers 2024

Amber Payne-Gregory brings 21 years of emergency nursing experience, with the past 15 years dedicated to the Air Medical industry. She currently serves as the President of the Alabama State Emergency Nurses Association. Amber is passionate about advancing education for pre-hospital providers, ensuring that treatments and guidelines adhere to evidence-based practices and current standards. Her commitment to education and best practices is central to her professional mission

Dr. Andrew Donahue is a distinguished Pediatric Emergency Medicine physician with a specialized focus on Pediatric Disaster Medicine. He completed his undergraduate studies at The University of Memphis and earned his medical degree from East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine. Following this, he pursued residency training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and a fellowship in Pediatric Emergency Medicine at UAB.

Dr. Donahue is a recognized leader in disaster preparedness and response. He serves as a Department of Homeland Security Disaster Instructor for the Center for Domestic Preparedness and is the HERT Director for Children's of Alabama. In addition, he is the Medical Director of Civilian Defense, LLC, a role that underscores his commitment to enhancing community and institutional resilience in disaster situations.

An active member of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Council on Children and Disasters, Dr. Donahue contributes his expertise to national efforts in safeguarding children's health during emergencies. He is also a script writer and interviewer for AAP’s DisasterCast, a podcast series dedicated to disaster preparedness and response.

In 2022, Dr. Donahue published a pediatric disaster curriculum that has been widely recognized for its impact on training healthcare professionals. He is currently working on publishing a comprehensive disaster curriculum specifically designed for Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellows, further solidifying his role as an educator and thought leader in this critical field.

Ashley holds the dual roles of a licensed veterinary technician and hospital manager at Auburn University Veterinary Specialists, boasting a comprehensive background with a bachelor's degree in animal health technology. With an impressive 20-year journey, Ashley's expertise spans across various specialized areas, including Anesthesia, Internal Medicine, ER, and Dermatology. Her dedication to excellence shines through her commitment to continuous professional development and unwavering focus on continuing education. Ashley takes pride in advocating for, and developing her team members, ensuring a dynamic and knowledgeable staff that upholds the highest standards of veterinary care.

Buddy is a committed Paramedic with 23 years of experience and a background in private ambulance services and fire based EMS.  He has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Alabama.  Buddy has also served in the Army National Guard and the Army Reserve.  He is currently a Firefighter/Paramedic with the Pelham Fire Department and a Flight Paramedic with Air Evac.  Buddy also enjoys mentoring new EMS Providers as an instructor at Regional Training Institute. Prior to that as an adjunct faculty member at Herzing University.

In addition to his work as a paramedic, Buddy has represented the Professional Firefighters of Alabama on the State Emergency Medical Control Committee from 2016 until 2024 and is a member of the NAEMT.  Buddy was recently recognized for his dedication to EMS as the first recipient of the Eldon Green EMS Excellence Award 2024. 

Proud father and lucky husband, I am master’s prepared dual certified nurse/paramedic with over 22 years of experience in various areas including quality management & improvement, critical care transport for both air and ground, emergency & ICU nursing, EMS, critical care & EMS education, and firefighting. I have recently transitioned to one of the new national clinical quality managers for the GMR. Together our team focuses on clinical data metrics to help quality improvement best practice standards within the GMR footprint for both air and ground. The most recent being responsible for the implementation, training, and clinical metric analysis of the Hamilton T1 ventilator for GMR. My previous role allowed me to serve as critical care educator for nurses and paramedics at Air Evac Lifeteam. I have had the opportunity to speak at several EMS and critical care conferences throughout the Southeast including some at the national level. I seek to help promote free open medical education as co-host on a podcast with two other colleagues with a background in respiratory therapy and EMS called, “The Critical Care Triad.” I have a passion for prehospital & critical care transport education and work to continuously raise the bar in our field.

Calli Baker is a seasoned paramedic with eight years of hands-on experience in emergency medical services, coupled with four years of dedicated teaching experience in various classes. Her commitment to excellence in education is exemplified by her proficiency in teaching Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS).

Notably, Calli has achieved a remarkable milestone in her teaching career, boasting a 100% pass rate for first-time testing EMT students under her instruction. She feels like her pass rate is like hitting a home run and she might just retire after her first class with that 100% pass rate . She says, “I've already peaked!"  Her passion for imparting knowledge and fostering competence in aspiring EMS professionals has earned her widespread recognition within the EMS community in Alabama. 

Throughout her career journey, Calli has transitioned seamlessly from serving as a dedicated volunteer firefighter to assuming critical roles as a frontline crew member, and eventually, as the Education Coordinator for her base. In her current role at Lifeguard Ambulance Service in Morgan County, Alabama, Calli continues to make invaluable contributions to the field of emergency medical services.

Calli’s expertise in pediatric adrenal insufficiency comes from her personal experience with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, that she was diagnosed with at birth.Calli's expertise, coupled with her unwavering dedication to advancing EMS education, makes her a sought-after speaker and mentor within the EMS community. Her engaging teaching style, combined with real-world experiences, empowers her students to excel in their endeavors and make a meaningful impact in prehospital care.

Cecil Fairchild has been a paramedic for 10 years, with the last 7 years dedicated to working as a flight paramedic across Louisiana in a high-volume service. He is also a flight paramedic with the Louisiana Army National Guard (LA ARNG) and serves as a SWAT medic with the local sheriff's office.

Cecil's passion for education began early in his career, starting as a BLS instructor and progressing to teach EMR, EMT, Paramedic, and critical-care/flight training. He previously worked for a national flight/critical-care education company as an instructor, operations manager, and eventually Director of Education, where he developed and implemented engaging curricula.

Two years ago, Cecil founded Six 8 Meducation, LLC, to continue his dedication to EMS education. His company offers a wide range of AHA courses, NAEMT training, and initial EMS education.

I am currently a Broker/Consultant and Head of Risk Management for Gallagher Insurance in Alabama, having transitioned from the construction industry. My career began as an attorney, where I practiced law for 8 years, focusing on healthcare, public entity, corporate defense, and construction. In 2014, I became Chief Legal Officer for an international construction company, and in 2015, I was promoted to Chief Operating Officer. I oversaw risk management, business development, and contracts, working with major port industry players in over 15 countries.

Clay Morris is currently the Police Chief for Pell City, bringing a wealth of experience from his federal service background. He began his career with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in the 1990s and most recently served as the Assistant Special Agent in Charge at the DEA’s Alabama headquarters in Birmingham. In this role, he oversaw operations across the state, reporting to the Special Agent in Charge in Louisiana.

A native of Monroe, Louisiana, Morris comes from a family of law enforcement officers and public servants, with assignments in Texas, Tennessee, and Washington D.C. In addition to his role as Police Chief, he serves as Vice President for an industrial maintenance company, leveraging his federal law enforcement experience.

Cynthia Widlitze spent over 30 years building a successful banking career, working with frontline employees, managers, lenders, business owners, and CEOs. She later founded Adduco Consulting, where she served as a sales consultant and coach, helping businesses and individuals improve customer service and sales skills to boost performance. In 2023, after experiencing a traumatic event, Cynthia gained a new perspective on life. Through sharing her story, she inspires audiences to understand how decisions and actions can profoundly impact their lives and others.

Dave grew up in an EMS family, his father was a "life squad man", making his first EMS response with his father at the age of 7.

He got the bug when he took his first EMT class in 1975 while at Western Kentucky Univ. In 1976 he joined the City of Louisville EMS Department. He attended paramedic school in 1977 and was one of the first paramedics in the state of Kentucky He went on to manage several paramedic programs though out the midwest. 

In 1988 he was appoint Deputy Director of EMS for the City of Ausitn TX. He remained with AEMS until he retired in 2001. Along the way he attended nursing school and in 2003 became a flight nurse/medic with PHI.

An orginal member of the PHI peer support team he is now its manager over seeing 43 team members and coordinating responses to mental heath needs.

Dave has been married to Sarah for 48 years and they have two adult daughters.

Denell Rhinehart is a 15-year EMS veteran with 11 years as a paramedic and 7 in critical care/flight, holding an AAS in Paramedicine and FP-C certification. She ia currently working as a flight paramedic for LifeNet 1-3 in Columbus, NE as well as serving Air Methods as part of the Outreach Education team. Denell also serves as the Simulation Coordinator and faculty for the paramedicine program at Central Community College in Grand Island, NE. Denell serves the EMS community in Nebraska by serving on multiple EMS-related boards including the state CISM team, NEMSA, NEAAMS and Statewide Conference and continues to teach EMS classes throughout the state of Nebraska and was honored as NEMSA EMS Instructor of the Year in 2024.  She also continues to serve as Assistant Captain of her community volunteer EMS agency.  

Dr. Chris White began his Emergency Medicine career as a firefighter/EMT with Carroll County Fire Rescue and West Georgia Ambulance in Carrollton, Georgia, while completing his B.S. and M.S. in Biology from the University of West Georgia. After five years in EMS and fire services, he attended Mercer University School of Medicine in Macon, Georgia, beginning in 2009. Dr. White completed his Emergency Medicine Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he served as Chief Resident from 2015-2016.

After residency, Dr. White entered active duty with the United States Air Force, serving as the EMS Director for Eglin Air Force Base and surrounding territories. He received advanced training through the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine and the University of Cincinnati Medical Center’s Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills as a critical care flight physician.

Upon completing his active duty in 2019, Dr. White joined the UAB Department of Emergency Medicine as an Assistant Professor. He has been recognized with resident teaching awards, selected as Core Educational Faculty, and has contributed to several departmental committees. He also serves as the medical director for several Fire & EMS municipalities in the Birmingham area and the largest EMS educational institution in Alabama. Additionally, Dr. White volunteers as the physician lead and liaison for UAB’s Active Shooter training program and the Alabama Community College System.

Outside of work, Dr. White enjoys coaching baseball, camping, and creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Dr. Jason Eversull is an Emergency Medicine physician with over 21 years of experience in EMS. His career began as a volunteer firefighter in the Metro Birmingham area before he took on the role of student firefighter at Auburn Fire Division, where he managed the dual responsibilities of being a full-time student and firefighter/paramedic. He earned a Bachelor's degree in EMS from the University of South Alabama and later specialized in rescue and hazardous materials with the Mobile Fire Rescue Department.

Determined to further his expertise, Dr. Eversull attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Medicine, where he earned his medical degree and completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at UAB Hospital. While in medical school, he also commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force, where he now serves on a Ground Surgical Team. In 2023, he completed a six-month combat tour in Niger in support of Operation Juniper Shield.

In addition to his military service, Dr. Jason Eversull is deeply committed to improving pre-hospital care. He serves as the Medical Director for several progressive Fire-EMS agencies, where he works to ensure that emergency services within these communities adhere to the highest standards and care practices in the industry. His leadership in this role reflects his passion for enhancing the quality and efficiency of emergency medical services.

Dr. Shea Duerring is a distinguished medical professional who holds multiple key positions in the field of emergency medical services (EMS). In addition to serving as the President of the National Association of EMS Physicians Alabama Chapter, he also holds the esteemed role of Assistant Medical Director for the state of Alabama EMS.

As the Assistant Medical Director, Dr. Duerring plays a crucial role in guiding and advising the EMS system in Alabama. His expertise and extensive knowledge in emergency medicine make him an invaluable asset in developing protocols, policies, and training programs that ensure optimal patient care and safety throughout the state. Dr. Duerring's dedication to improving the EMS system further solidifies his commitment to serving the community and saving lives.

Dr. Duerring's impact extends beyond his administrative roles. With his vast experience and expertise in pediatric emergency medicine, he has been recognized as the UAB Pediatric Instructor of the Year. This prestigious award highlights his exceptional teaching abilities and his ability to inspire and educate the next generation of medical professionals.

Overall, Dr. Shea Duerring's multifaceted role as the President of the National Association of EMS Physicians Alabama Chapter, Assistant Medical Director for the state of Alabama EMS, and his recognition as an outstanding instructor exemplify his unwavering commitment to advancing emergency medical care. His leadership, expertise, and dedication continue to shape the EMS landscape in Alabama, benefiting countless individuals in need of critical medical attention.

Dr. Will Ferguson is an Emergency Medicine physician at UAB with a distinctive background, having begun his career as a nurse before transitioning to medicine. He currently serves as the Medical Director for multiple EMS services, where he is instrumental in overseeing emergency care protocols and guiding EMS teams. His combined experience in nursing and medicine allows him to approach patient care with a well-rounded perspective, making him a vital leader in the field of Emergency Medicine. Dr. Ferguson is committed to advancing pre-hospital care and improving outcomes for patients in critical situations.

Dylan Newsom has 7 years of experience as a paramedic and has been a flight paramedic for the past 4 years. After graduating from Temple Junior College, Dylan started his career at Coryell Health EMS in Gatesville, TX, where he currently serves as the EMS Education Program Director and Advanced Coordinator. His flight experience is with PHI Air Medical, and he is now the Air Medical Base Supervisor at PHI MED 15 in Temple, TX.

Dr. M. Eric Williams is a Mississippi native and has over two decades’ experience as a Paramedic, Allied Health instructor, and researcher.   He is currently the Assistant Director of Emergency Medical Sciences at Jones College in Ellisville, MS and has served as an Adjunct Professor for the University of Mississippi.  Eric has earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Health Sciences and his doctorate from Delta State University.  Deeply passionate about all things public health related, he is a researcher, public speaker, and syndicated healthcare columnist.  In addition to speaking at multiple engagements yearly, he is also a regular guest and serves as a health and personal wellness expert on several nationwide IHeartRadio broadcasts. Eric resides in South Mississippi and enjoys landscaping, tournament chess, and high-end woodworking.

Fred (Fredrick) Benzel has been with the Grand Island Fire Department since 2006. He currently holds the position of Captain. He started his EMS career in 2001 at Southeast Community College in the Fire Protection Program in Lincoln, Ne.  In 2005 he went back to Southeast Community College to obtain his certificate in Paramedicine. He has worked in a multitude of settings including private, government and transport services.  In addition to working for the Grand Island Fire Department, he is a lead instructor for the Central Community College Paramedic program in Grand Island, Ne.  He finished a Bachelors in Health Science Administration February of 2021. In 2021 Fred also received the EMS instructor of the year award for the state of Nebraska.  Fred has presented at and coordinated multiple fire and EMS conferences throughout the state of Nebraska since 2013 and assists community EMS programs and Volunteer Fire Departments with training and continuing education.

Fred Benzel has been with the Grand Island Fire Department since 2006. He currently holds the position of Captain. He started his EMS career in 2001 in 2005 he went back to obtain his certificate in Paramedicine. He has worked in a multitude of settings including private, government and transport services.  He is also lead instructor for the Central Community College Paramedic program in Grand Island, Ne. In 2021 Fred also received the EMS instructor of the year award for the state of Nebraska

Jeremy Thomasson, FPC, NRP, currently serves as Program Director for PHI Air Medical in Texas, overseeing eight rotor-wing bases, as well as a ground critical care program. Jeremy has been involved in EMS since 1998 and Critical Care/Air Medical Transport since 2008. With his roots beginning in Frontier Texas EMS, throughout his career Jeremy has served as an EMS Director, Field Training Officer, Outreach and Staff Educator, as well as Flight Paramedic and Air Medical Base Supervisor. He has instructed in multiple EMS and critical care programs throughout his career, both at the local and collegiate level, and serves as an item writer and subject matter expert with the International Board for Specialty Certification for the Flight and Critical Care Paramedic exams.

Jessica Duncan is a skilled and dedicated paramedic with 13 years of experience as a Paramedic and a total of 17 years in the field. She obtained a Bachelor in Science from Troy University and is a board certified Community Paramedic. 

Currently serving as a full-time faculty member at Southern Union State Community College in the EMS program, Jessica plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of EMS professionals. Her extensive expertise and passion for teaching are evident in her contributions to the program's curriculum development and instructional delivery.

Within the EMS program, Jessica specializes in teaching Advanced Emergency Medical Technician courses and imparts invaluable knowledge in pharmacology and obstetrics  to paramedic students. Her dynamic teaching style and innovative instructional methods foster an engaging learning environment, empowering students to excel in their studies and practical applications.

Jessica's dedication to enhancing her teaching credentials is reflected in her attainment of numerous teaching certifications, including the National Association of EMS Educators Educator certification. Additionally, she is a certified instructor in Advanced Medical Life Support, Prehospital Trauma Life Support, Emergency Vehicle Operations Course, Emergency Vehicle Operations Safety, Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Emergency Pediatric Care.

Through her unwavering commitment to education and her profound impact on students and colleagues alike, Jessica Duncan exemplifies excellence in the field of EMS education. Her expertise, leadership, and dedication continue to inspire and elevate the EMS community, ensuring the highest standards of care and professionalism for years to come.

Justin Hurzeler is a nationally registered Paramedic in the U.S.A., and a veteran of 911 service where he performed as an ALS medic, clinical instructor, field officer, and QA/QI officer in Central Texas under the medical direction of Jeffrey Jarvis, MD. He was also a team leader for that agency’s tactical EMS team, working throughout the state of Texas with a variety of local, state, and federal agencies’ special response teams. Mr. Hurzeler is currently an EMS Clinical Support Specialist for ZOLL and regularly conducts training and clinical data support for agencies all over North America.

Kevin Joles serves as the EMS Division Chief of Lawrence-Douglas Fire and Medical in Lawrence, KS, and is the Chair of the EMS Section of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC).. Before his current role, Kevin was the Captain of EMS Operations and EMS Training in the City of Olathe (KS), where he led clinical education efforts both locally and within the Johnson County EMS system. Additionally, Kevin is a Board Member of the Advanced Cardiac Resuscitation (ACR) Consortium.



With 28 years of experience in emergency services, Kevin is deeply passionate about providing superior prehospital clinical care. His progressive approach has led him to spearhead initiatives aimed at improving cardiac arrest outcomes, pre-hospital rare disease care and working diligently towards achieving the department's International Accreditation status (CPSE) and an ISO 1 rating.

Kim Stanley was employed with Medicare as the EMS Liaison for more than a decade. Working with CMS and various State committees, Kim developed key reimbursement policies at both the carrier and federal levels. Kim has been with EMS|MC since 2003 and serves as Chief Compliance Officer. As an advocate for EMS providers, she continues to serve on various reimbursement committees and contractor advisory groups at the state and national levels. Kim is a frequent presenter at EMS conferences and a nationally recognized expert on EMS billing practices, compliance and Medicare policy. Kim holds her CAC certification from the NAAC.

Kristi Graham is a Nationally Registered Paramedic with 22 years of experience in the field. She currently serves as an FTO and Education Coordinator at Decatur Morgan EMS and as a training officer for multiple volunteer agencies in Morgan County. Kristi has a Bachelor's degree in Emergency Services Administration with plans to finish her Master's degree in public health. Mrs. Graham obtained IBSC Community Paramedic certification in 2023.

As an Advanced EMT and EMS instructor, Latimer Hoke has worked in rural EMS since 2009, working for and with dozens of emergency service organizations in Vermont and Montana, as well as in Canada.  These experiences involve volunteer and career EMS agencies, fire departments, law enforcement, emergency communications, ski patrol, and search and rescue.  He has managed supply ordering, served as training officer, and written policies for many workplaces.  In addition to EMS, Latimer holds a B.S. in Secondary English Education, a M.Ed. in Education Leadership, and Senior Alpine certification with the National Ski Patrol.

Matt is an EMS/Mobile Healthcare Consultant with PWW | Advisory Group, focusing on assisting local communities, EMS agencies, fire departments, ambulance services, hospitals and other healthcare organizations in evaluating and improving their EMS and mobile healthcare delivery systems. Prior to joining PWW|AG, he served as the Chief Transformation Officer for MedStar Mobile Healthcare, the Public Utility Model EMS system serving Fort Worth and 13 other cities in North Texas where he helped guide the development and implementation of innovative programs with healthcare and community partners to transform the role of MedStar in the healthcare system and community. Matt has a master’s degree in healthcare administration, with a Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Data Management.  He is a past President of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT), is currently their South-Central Region Director and chairs their EMS Economics Committee.  He also chairs the Education Committee for the Academy of International Mobile Healthcare Integration (AIMHI), an association comprised of high-performance and Public Utility Model EMS systems across the United States.  

Michelle Kline is a highly skilled and experienced flight nurse with over 25 years in EMS and a passion for prehospital care and emergency response. With a strong background in critical care, Michelle has managed high-stakes situations both in the air and on the ground.Known for her commitment to education and mentorship, Michelle shares her practical insights and life-saving techniques with fellow clinicians, empowering them with the skills and confidence needed to respond effectively in emergencies and to always be “Fit for Flight, Fit for Duty”

Patrick Howard is a lifelong resident of rural Hale County, Alabama, and a third-generation paramedic. He began his career at Hale County EMS in 2005 as an EMT and graduated with honors from the Fast-Track Paramedic program at the Alabama Fire College in 2007. Patrick has been a Nationally Registered Paramedic since July 2007 and became the Director of Hale County EMS in 2015. He also serves on the Hale County 911 Board of Directors and assists Hale County EMA with a focus on severe weather.

Russell Greene is a 20 plus year veteran in the public safety field. Russell currently serves as a Captain with the Irondale Fire Department. Russell also has over 15 years experience in EMS education. Russell is a board certified flight paramedic and serves as a subject matter experience and instructor for the Department of Homeland Security. Mr. Greene has also had the great privilege of deploying to multiple locations including the Maui wildfires, Hurricane Ian, and Washington D.C. serving in various roles on a Federal Incident Management Team.

Russell Weeden began his EMS career in 1989 with Hale County EMS, dedicating 33 years to various roles, including Paramedic Supervisor and Operations Manager. He currently serves on the Hale County 911 Board of Directors, is the President of the Hale County Fire Association, and is a member of the Hale County Healthcare Authority Board of Directors. Since 2000, Russell has been the Director of Hale County EMA, where he has overseen responses to numerous tornado events, resulting in 14 Federal Disaster declarations over his 24-year tenure

Greg Reed is the President Pro Tempore of the Alabama Senate. He has served in this capacity since 2021, when he was unanimously elected by his colleagues to serve as the top-ranking member. 

Reed previously served as Senate Majority Leader from 2015 to 2021. During his first term in office, Reed served as Chairman of the Senate Health Committee from 2011 to 2014. 

Media outlets have credited Reed as being a “brilliant tactician” who brings a business-type mentality to the governing process. 

Reed’s business career spanned more than three decades in the medical device sales industry. 

He has been married to his high school sweetheart, the former Mitsy Harbison, for 34 years. The Reeds three adult sons – James (Anika), Andrew, and John Michael(Kalei). 

Reed grew up in Cordova in South Walker County, the son of the late Rufus Reed and Patsy Collier Reed of Jasper. He and his sister, Angie, graduated from Walker County Public Schools. Reed attended Walker College, which is now Bevill State Community College, before earning his bachelor’s degree at University of Alabama. 

Greg and Mitsy are active members of the First Baptist Church of Jasper, where they teach Sunday school to young adults.

Shane Driver has served the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) community since 1992 with an extensive background in fire service and fire service administration, ground ambulance service and ambulance administration, helicopter-based EMS (HEMS), and EMS education.  Shane is a multifaceted instructor and has served privately as well as on the adjunct staff at The Alabama Fire College and The University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is a recognized instructor through the United States Department of Transportation, American Heart Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, NAEMT, and International Trauma Life Support.  In 2007 he established ESEC, LLC to further prehospital education and offer clinical and managerial guidance to both EMS and Fire Systems.

Steve Wirth, Esq., MS, EMT-P is a nationally known EMS attorney and consultant who has been involved in EMS his entire life in virtually all aspects - forom the field to executive leadership, and from both the air and ground service perspectives.  Steve is a co-founder of the national EMS law firm of Page, Wolfberg & Wirth, LLC, and the national consulting firm, PWW Advisory Group, LLC, where he assists EMS and mobile healthcare agencies across the country manage risk and develop long term strategies for long term sustainability. He is a dynamic and sought after speaker at regional state and national conferences on a wide range of EMS and mobile healthcare issues.

Tony Pollard is a nationally recognized leader, speaker, and trainer dedicated to helping businesses build stronger, more committed teams through his business, Tony Pollard Speaks. With a deep understanding of how to unlock a team's potential, Tony's guidance fosters a more collaborative environment, often resulting in an improved bottom line.

Tony’s journey has been shaped by overcoming significant challenges, from wearing leg braces as a child to enduring a humiliating job dismissal. These experiences taught him to embrace adversity and strive for excellence. Now, he encourages others to see that the true battle lies not in external forces but within ourselves.

With a master's degree in educational administration and a bachelor's degree in education, Tony has taught every grade from K-12, coached football and soccer, and started a successful janitorial business while in college. With 25 years of military service in the active Army and National Guard, Tony now focuses on speaking, training, facilitating, and presenting for major companies, using his experiences to help others turn their challenges into victories.

Dr. Travis Goodloe is an emergency medicine and EMS physician based in Mobile, AL, where he serves as an assistant professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of South Alabama. He earned his medical degree from the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama in 2020 and completed his emergency medicine residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine in 2023.

In 2024, Dr. Goodloe completed an EMS fellowship at UTHealth Houston's John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Medical School, where he served as an EMS medical director for the Houston Fire Department and the Sugar Land Fire Department. Outside of work, Dr. Goodloe enjoys spending time with his family, exploring the outdoors, and fishing. He and his wife are proud parents of a daughter born in September 2023.