2023 Speakers

Aimee has been in the field of nursing for 16 years; with 14 of those years in the fields
of trauma, burns, and emergency nursing. She is currently the director of the bariatric
surgery program at Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham. She is on the state board of
the Alabama Emergency Nurses Association and serves as state secretary. Aimee is a
BLS/ACLS/PALS/CPI/Stop the Bleed Instructor and serves as TNCC Course faculty for
the state of Alabama. She is a 2007 Alumna of the UAB School of Nursing and a 2019
graduate of the University of South Alabama. She is a sexual assault nurse examiner, a
contract legal nurse consult for several law firms, and is an Alliance for Human
Trafficking subject matter expert.

Asbel began his career in the ambulance industry in 1999. During his EMS career he has directed and lead revenue cycle teams for air and ground ambulance agencies, culminating in his current position as Managing Partner of Solutions Group.

Throughout his career, Asbel has been a member of numerous organizations, including the Healthcare Financial Managers Association (HFMA), the American Ambulance Association (AAA), the National EMS Managers Association (NEMSMA), and the National Association of EMTs (NAEMT).

He previously served on the Board of Directors for the American Ambulance Association (AAA) and numerous committees. Notably, he chaired the AAA Payment Reform Committee helping to navigate healthcare changes and the correlation to the air and ground ambulance industry. He has also testified as an expert witness before federal and state health committees regarding ambulance reimbursement and veteran health initiatives related to emergency medicine.

In 2016, Asbel was appointed to the Ambulance Transport Alternatives Task Force for the State of Louisiana by Governor John Bel Edwards. In 2020, Asbel was named to the Air Ambulance and Patient Billing Advisory Committee by the Secretary of the United States Department of Transportation. In 2022, he was named chair of the Ground Ambulance and Patient Billing Advisory Committee tasked by Congress to provide recommendations to the Secretaries of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury on ways to protect consumers from balance billing when using ground ambulance services.

Asbel is a respected thought leader on reimbursement initiatives within the industry and is a requested speaker at numerous healthcare conferences. Asbel is a contributing author in several EMS magazines and co-authored the book, Management of Ambulance Services, as published by Prentice Hall in 2014.

Ken Bouvier, is a paramedic and professional speaker known both nationally/internationally. He began his Fire / EMS career in 1975 as a volunteer firefighter / EMT, and went on to become a career Firefighter / Fire Chief / Paramedic for Monsanto Fire Department until retirement in 2012. Coincidingly, he worked for New Orleans EMS. In 2012 he became Deputy Chief of Operations until retirement in 2019. He served as EMS Commander of most New Orleans major events including Mardi Gras, Super Bowls, Hurricanes and managed the EMS crews and was featured on the A&E Television Show NIGHTWATCH.

Bouvier, recipient of several major awards. The 1989-NAEMT National EMT of the Year Award, 2008-Morando Lifetime Achievement Award, 2019-Louisiana EMS Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2022 Westwego Firefighter of the Year Award.

Bouvier served as President of National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians NAEMT 2004-2006, Life Member of Westwego Fire Department, Louisiana Firemen’s Association, NAEMT and Louisiana Fire Chief’s Association.

Bouvier has extensive education in Fire / EMS / Hazardous Materials and has made written contributions in 14 EMS textbooks and serves on the EMS World Editorial Advisory Board. Since retirement, he continues to educate Fire / EMS around the World while serving as Deputy Fire Chief at Westwego Fire Department.

Dr. Christopher White, MD, is an ABEM certified Emergency Medicine physician. He served as Chief Resident during his residency, demonstrating exceptional leadership skills. Dr. White works at UAB and is also a member of the United States Air Force, providing vital medical support. With a friendly and empathetic nature, he connects with patients from all walks of life, offering them the care they need during critical moments. Dr. White's dedication, creativity, and intelligence make him an invaluable asset to the healthcare community.

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.

Oliver, a native of Dadeville, Alabama, graduated from Dadeville High School in 1974. He then graduated from the University of Alabama in 1979. Before being elected to the Alabama House of Representatives, Oliver served as an aviator in the United States Army and worked as an air ambulance helicopter pilot.

After retiring from air service, Oliver first ran for the Alabama House of Representatives in 2018, in the Republican primary for the 81st district. He advanced to a runoff against Terry Martin, which he won. Oliver faced Democratic nominee Jeremy Jeffcoat in the general election, Oliver campaigned on industrial development and economic growth, as well as education. Oliver won against Jeffcoat in the November general election and was sworn in as state representative.

Mr. Jamie Gray currently serves as the State EMS Director of Alabama.

Jamie also served as the Alabama Opioid Assistance Project Director, and currently serves as the Vice-Chair of the Alabama Mutual Aid System Advisory Council, Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Council, Opioid Crisis Advisory Council, Data Driven Prevention Initiative, and serves as the South Region Chair of the National Association of State EMS Officials and is the state membership coordinator for the National Association of EMTs.

He began his role in emergency services in 1998 at Elmore Fire and Rescue where he still serves to this day and holds many fire certifications as well as EMS certifications. He continued into full time EMS with Haynes Ambulance of Alabama as a dispatcher and progressed to the Paramedic level and eventually the State EMS Office. Mr. Gray is nationally a certified Investigator and Inspector, a certified Fire, Police, and EMS Chaplain, a certified First Responder Crisis Negotiator, and certified Tactical Paramedic. He serves with a Law Enforcement Special Operations Unit and SWAT team and is a Medic with the National Disaster Medical System.

Mr. Gray attended Troy University where he received his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and minors in sociology, human services, and sign language and later continued his education at Trenholm State Community College where he received his Associate Degree in Paramedicine and where he subsequently served as an instructor.

Kevin King has been serving the citizens of Mississippi in pubic service since 1989. Beginning as a volunteer fire-fighter, Kevin responded to numerous medical calls which sparked his interest in a career in EMS. Kevin has been a paramedic since 1993 and returned to nursing school in 2008. Kevin spent many years working EMS in Jackson Mississippi and other areas around Jackson. In 2001, Kevin accepted a flight paramedic position at the University of Mississippi Medical Center on AirCare 1 where he continues to serve today as a RN/MS-CCP. Kevin holds numerous certifications and instructor certifications in various disciplines and is passionate about training law enforcement officers in emergency medicine across the state of Mississippi through various programs. Kevin is also an instructor for AirCare’s Cadaver Lab team and has taught numerous full procedure cadaver labs in conferences across the southeast region. Kevin is deeply involved with disaster response and management and regularly responds to acute situations in Mississippi. Kevin serves his community as both a fire medic and a law enforcement officer in Rankin County Mississippi. He lives with his family in Richland Mississippi.

I started my life of Public Service in the Volunteer Fire world at the age of 16. I worked with several Volunteer Fire Departments within Tuscaloosa County over the years, eventually working my way up to the rank of Chief. The relationships I developed during my years with the Volunteer Fire Departments yielded an invitation to join the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. I now have over 24 years in Law Enforcement with 11 years being in some form of a supervisory role. For the last year I have served as Lieutenant over Patrol Administration and Commander of the Medical Unit. I am directly responsible for the oversight of day-to-day operational matters, budget management, fleet management, and other projects such as equipment and software evaluation. I am very proud to say that we (Sheriff’s Office) built and maintained very strong partnerships with all our stakeholders from everyday citizens, our Volunteer Fire Departments, and all our other public safety partners.

Steve Diehl learned of his ALS diagnosis in September of 2022. His firefighting journey began in a small town in Illinois, but he would later retire after an extensive career. It was a short-lived retirement that led Steve to a job with Georgia Pacific, which then steered him to work in Pennington, Alabama. From there, his attention turned to the volunteer fire station in Linden. Firefighting might be the only thing that’s keeping Steve going. The calls look different and oftentimes Michelle and Jeremiah have to leave Steve behind. Steve usually finds himself as an educator, where he is teaching others more about fire safety.

Melissa - I have over 20 years of experience in human services and non-profit organizations with a proven track record of leadership, team building and program development and delivery. I put mission first in everything I do and am known for my initiative, innovation, and ability to get jobs done that many other people may think of as impossible. Put my passion and visionary skills to work for you.

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, Emergency Care & Safety Institute, 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.

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Bob Matoba is a highly accomplished professional with a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of EMS (Emergency Medical Services). With a career spanning 37 years, Bob has dedicated his life to the care of patients and the advancement of EMS education and management.

As a highly creative individual, Bob has consistently sought innovative ways to improve patient care and enhance the skills of EMS professionals. His extensive background includes direct patient care, where he has honed his skills in emergency medical response and treatment. This hands-on experience has provided him with a deep understanding of the challenges and complexities of the field.

In addition to his direct patient care experience, Bob has also excelled in the realm of EMS education. He has served as an instructor, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring EMS professionals. His passion for teaching has led him to develop effective educational programs and curricula that have positively impacted countless students.

Bob's dedication to education extends beyond teaching in the classroom. His engaging presentations and insightful discussions have made him a favorite among attendees, who appreciate his ability to convey complex concepts in a clear and relatable manner.

Furthermore, Bob is a respected author and columnist, sharing his insights and experiences through various publications. As a monthly columnist for EMS1.com and a contributing author for EMS World Magazine and JEMS (Journal of Emergency Medical Services), Bob has a platform to disseminate his knowledge and contribute to the ongoing development of the EMS field.

With his broad base of EMS education and management skills, combined with his extensive experience and passion for the industry, Bob Matoba has established himself as a highly respected professional in the field. His contributions to patient care, education, and industry publications have left an indelible mark on the EMS community.

Chris Downs is a highly skilled and dedicated paramedic with a diverse background in emergency medicine and military service. With a Master of Arts degree in Biothreat Management, he brings a unique perspective and expertise to his work in the field.

From 2004 to 2010, Chris served in the United States Air Force Reserve, where he made invaluable contributions to the nation's defense. During his service, he was deployed to both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to protecting and serving his country. Throughout his military career, Chris displayed exceptional leadership skills and a strong sense of duty, earning the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors.

After completing his military service, Chris transitioned into the field of emergency medicine, where he has excelled as a paramedic. His extensive training and experience in emergency medical services enable him to provide critical care to patients in high-pressure situations. Chris's calm demeanor, quick thinking, and ability to assess and respond to medical emergencies make him a valuable asset to the healthcare team.

In addition to his paramedic work, Chris's Master of Arts degree in Biothreat Management demonstrates his dedication to staying at the forefront of emerging medical threats and preparedness. His expertise in this specialized field allows him to contribute to the development and implementation of effective strategies for handling potential biothreats, ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals and communities.

Chris Downs is a consummate professional who combines his military background, paramedic skills, and biothreat management knowledge to make a positive impact in the field of emergency medicine. His commitment to service, exceptional skill set, and continued pursuit of knowledge make him an invaluable asset in any emergency medical setting. Chris's unwavering dedication to the well-being of others and his ability to thrive in high-stress situations make him a highly respected and trusted paramedic.

Dr. Jason Ferguson is an accomplished professional with a diverse background in healthcare and education. Currently serving as the Associate Vice President at Central Virginia Community College, he plays a vital role in advancing the institution's mission of providing accessible and quality education to students.

With a strong foundation in emergency medical services, Dr. Ferguson previously worked as a Flight Paramedic for Centra Health, where he gained extensive experience in providing critical care in high-pressure situations. His dedication to delivering exceptional patient care and ensuring the well-being of others has always been at the forefront of his work.

Dr. Ferguson's passion for education led him to pursue a career in academia. He holds advanced degrees in his field and has a deep understanding of the importance of higher education in empowering individuals and transforming communities. As the Associate Vice President, he brings his expertise and innovative ideas to promote student success, foster partnerships, and develop programs that meet the evolving needs of students and the community.

Known for his collaborative nature and commitment to excellence, Dr. Ferguson has made significant contributions to the field of healthcare and education throughout his career. His continued dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others is a testament to his unwavering passion and drive.

Dr. Will Ferguson is an exceptional and highly esteemed figure in the field of emergency medicine. As the Medical Director for the Birmingham Regional Emergency Medical Services System (BREMSS), he plays a pivotal role in overseeing and advancing pre-hospital emergency care in the region. His expertise and leadership have been instrumental in ensuring the delivery of high-quality medical services during critical situations.

In addition to his role at BREMSS, Dr. Ferguson serves as an Associate Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) in the Department of Emergency Medicine. Through his teaching and mentorship, he has made a significant impact on the education and development of future generations of emergency medicine professionals. Dr. Ferguson's dedication to education has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his recent recognition as the recipient of the prestigious 2022 Outstanding Educator Award by UAB Department of Emergency Medicine’s Excellence Award .

Dr. Ferguson's commitment to improving patient care extends beyond his roles at BREMSS and UAB. He also serves as the medical director for multiple agencies, where he plays a critical role in establishing medical protocols, ensuring quality assurance, and providing guidance to emergency medical personnel. His expertise and guidance have contributed to the enhancement of emergency medical services in these agencies, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.

With his extensive experience, expertise, and dedication to excellence, Dr. Will Ferguson has earned a well-deserved reputation as a leader and trailblazer in the field of emergency medicine. His significant contributions as the BREMSS Medical Director, Associate Professor at UAB Emergency Medicine, medical director for multiple agencies, and his recent recognition as the 2022 Outstanding Educator Award recipient, highlight his unwavering commitment to advancing the field and improving patient care. Dr. Ferguson's passion, expertise, and leadership continue to shape the future of emergency medicine, inspiring and empowering others in the field.

Gary Farmer is an accomplished Fire Captain at Montgomery Fire Rescue, specializing in training and emergency medical services. He has overseen 17 fire department recruit schools, shaping the next generation of firefighters. Additionally, Gary is a skilled drone pilot, utilizing his Part 107 license to run a successful drone business. He is committed to community engagement and has organized numerous CPR training programs, empowering individuals with life-saving skills.

Justin Hurzeler is a nationally registered Paramedic in the U.S.A., and a ten-year 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.

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Lieutenant Matthew Panepento is a line fire officer for Trussville Fire and Rescue in central Alabama. He also currently serves as a lead instructor for the Jefferson State Community College EMS program, where he has worked since 2014. Also, Panepento serves as a skills lab instructor for Alabama EMS Challenge, which is an EMS continuing education initiative sponsored by the Alabama Fire College that brings physician lectures to EMS providers free of charge. He graduated from Columbia Southern University’s Fire Administration bachelor’s program and is pursuing his master’s degree in Fire Emergency Services Management.

Paula is a Senior Education Consultant with Palmetto GBA. In her role on the Medicare Part B team, she
works with a variety of provider types providing education and problem resolution. Paula collaborates
with other functional departments, as well as other MACs, to develop education products to help
providers gain an understanding of Medicare policy and achieve compliance. Prior to joining Palmetto
GBA, Paula has worked in other roles with Medicare contractors, private insurance industry and clinical
settings.

Stephen Wilson, BS, NRP, is the Director of Stakeholder Relations for the National Registry of EMTs. Stephen is a Nationally Registered Paramedic with over twenty years of EMS clinical experience. He is the former Director of the Alabama Department of Public Health Office of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Where he spent 13 years of his career leading the EMS system in Alabama, Stephen earned his associate degree in EMS - Paramedic at H. Council Trenholm State Community College and a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Alabama in EMS Management. In addition, Mr. Wilson formerly served as a commissioner on the Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice, where he was elected the first treasurer for the commission. He also formerly served on the Board of Directors for the National Association of State EMS Officials, as Chair for the National Association of State EMS Official’s South Region, and as a Commissioner for the Alabama First Responder Wireless Commission. Mr. Wilson currently serves as a Board member for the Alabama Association of Ambulance Services, Chair for the Crenshaw County 911 Board, and a member of the National Association of EMTs and the Alabama EMS Association.

Amy Eisenhauer is a highly accomplished and respected professional in the field of emergency medical services (EMS). As the EMS for Children Program Manager for the Department of Health, Bureau of EMS & Trauma for NY, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring the provision of specialized pediatric emergency care across the state.

With a deep passion for EMS, Amy goes above and beyond her official duties by actively contributing to the field through her role as a founder and blogger on The EMS Siren. Her blog serves as a platform to share valuable insights, experiences, and knowledge with EMS providers and enthusiasts worldwide. Through her writing, Amy has established herself as a known publisher in the EMS community, consistently delivering informative and thought-provoking content.

In addition to her contributions as a writer, Amy is also recognized as a dynamic presenter. She has delivered numerous engaging and informative presentations at conferences and seminars, sharing her expertise and fostering professional development within the EMS community. Her ability to captivate audiences and effectively convey complex concepts has earned her a reputation as an engaging and influential speaker.

Amy's commitment to advancing EMS goes beyond her professional endeavors. She is actively involved in various organizations and committees that focus on improving EMS systems, enhancing patient care, and promoting the well-being of EMS providers. Her dedication and tireless efforts have made a significant impact on the EMS community, positively influencing the lives of countless individuals in need of emergency medical assistance.

Overall, Amy Eisenhauer's position as the EMS for Children Program Manager, her role as a founder and blogger on The EMS Siren, her reputation as a known publisher in the EMS field, and her engaging presentations make her a remarkable and influential figure in the world of emergency medical services. Her passion, expertise, and commitment continue to shape the future of EMS, leaving a lasting impact on the profession and the individuals it serves.

Proud father and lucky husband, I am dual certified as a nurse and paramedic with over 20 years of experience in various areas including firefighting, EMS education, Emergency and ICU nursing, and critical care transport for air and ground. I have a master’s in nursing education that I currently use to serve as a regional educator for the Air Evac bases in Georgia where I am responsible for the educational standards and curriculum development for our critical care nurses & paramedics. I help to 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.

Mr. David Wuertz. “I’ve grown up in EMS since the mid 70’s and witnessed firsthand the toll that our career can have on first responders. The mental health role in our profession is critical, not just for our well-being, but for our patients and organizations.”

Dave has worked for PHI Health as a flight nurse/medic since 2005, most recently as base supervisor in Temple, Texas. He is a founding member of the PHI peer support team. In 2021 Dave stepped out of his clinical/base supervisor position and accepted the role of peer support team manager for PHI. He now coordinates team responses and provides education to PHI staff about the peer support team and mental health issues.

Dave has been married to Sarah for 46 years and they have two adult daughters.

After serving as a trauma surgeon in Vietnam, Dr. Sam Scheinberg recognized the need for better emergency splints. His “AHA” experience occurred while he wrapped an aluminum foil gum wrapper around his finger. At that moment he realized an appropriately sized thin, soft strip of metal could serve as a perfect splint. Fifteen years, and many false starts later, Sam and his wife Cherrie opened a company in the kitchen of their home to manufacture the world’s first universal splint. Since their humble beginning the SAM® Splint has become the most common emergency splint in use on the planet. The SAM® Medical Company has continued to innovate medical devices designed to address the most challenging problems in the emergency prehospital setting. After nearly 40 years in the industry Sam and Cherrie continue to travel the world teaching, training, and most important listening to the needs of their personal heroes … those feet on the street who answer the call day or night when others are in need.

Sam Scheinberg, M.D., C.E.O of SAM® Medical, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. He still lives on the Oregon Coast where he practiced orthopedic surgery and co-founded the SAM® Medical Company.
Cherrie Scheinberg, attended Northwestern and is the Co-founder / heart and soul of SAM® Medical. She is a peerless teacher and trainer.

Sam and Cherrie have been Married 55 years.

Alabama EMS Challenge is a physician-led, FREE continuing education opportunity, aimed at emergency care providers in EMS and the fire service.

Guy Minshall is a Regional Clinical Educator and critical care flight
paramedic for PHI Air Medical. Guy was born and raised
in Wales, UK where he began a career in the hospitality
industry. Guy transitioned from the kitchen to the bar
becoming a real-life Tom Cruise when he became the World
Bartender Champion back in 1999 for the TGI Friday's
restaurant chain. (It's on YouTube) He was then recruited by
the Hard Rock Cafe where he became the Worldwide Beverage
Manager, which brought him to the USA in 2000. Guy still did
not know what he wanted to be when he grew up so at the
age of 40 decided to follow his childhood dream of becoming a
flight paramedic which he has enjoyed over the last 7 years.
Guy is actively involved with education and enjoys speaking at
Conferences. Guy also brought home the Texas SIM Games
Trophy from the 2022 Texas EMS Conference last November.

Katrina Key is a highly accomplished Director for Regional Air Medical Services. With a background as a flight paramedic and nurse, she brings a unique perspective and a wealth of knowledge to her role. Katrina's expertise in providing critical care and her commitment to excellence have earned her a stellar reputation. She also serves on the Protocol Committee, contributing to the development and implementation of protocols and guidelines. Katrina's dedication to continuous learning and staying up-to-date with advancements ensures the highest quality of care for her team. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and outdoor activities. Katrina Key is a true leader in the field of air medical services.

Lamar Neighbors is a dedicated individual who has dedicated his life to serving others. As an Intermediate EMT, he provides crucial medical assistance to those in need. Lamar also serves as a fire chaplain, offering spiritual support to firefighters and their families. Additionally, he is an active member of the volunteer fire department, always ready to lend a helping hand in times of crisis. Furthermore, Lamar's commitment to his faith is evident through his role as a deacon at Seman Baptist Church. Prior to his service as an EMT and fire chaplain, Lamar served in the Army from 1985 to 2005, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to protecting and serving his country. Lamar Neighbors is a true hero, tirelessly sacrificing his time and energy to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

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The podcast was born in Feb 2023. Discussing ventilator management in the Prehospital transport environment. We discuss scenario based content coupled current evidence-based literature to provide the latest and best content to our listeners. Our goal and vision is to strengthen the providers in our industry by helping provide an interactive learning platform.