Welcome to Life & Safety with Jimmy Rios! Get ready to dive into a world where safety meets storytelling! Drawing from his rich background as a former firefighter, EMT and safety expert, Jimmy brings you straight into the heart of safety and emergency preparedness. Episodes feature easy-to-understand tips, real-life stories, and interviews with experts, all designed to help you protect yourself, your business, and those you care about. Whether it's advice on navigating everyday safety challe ...
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We Played Would You Rather... It Got Weird.
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29:41This episode, we’re flipping the script with a rapid-fire game of “Would You Rather?”—Life & Safety style. Jimmy’s in the hot seat as Megan throws out 10 surprisingly tough scenarios with a safety twist. Would he rather perform CPR on a stranger in a crowd *or* on a loved one all alone? Get lost in the forest with just a flashlight *or* brave a cit…
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Ever wonder what happens when you bring someone along for a ride-along on a ambulance or a fire engine for the day? According to first responders, it’s either a total snooze-fest, or a wild and crazy adventure—and there’s rarely anything in between. In this episode, Jimmy and Megan dig into the strange superstition known as the “ride-along curse,” …
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We all like to think we can bounce back from anything—but sometimes our bodies have other plans for us. In this episode, we’re swapping stories about the injuries that taught us the hard way how important it is to rest, recover, and know your limits. From a high school football game that ended with a torn rotator cuff, to a wrestling match gone wro…
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Local Legends: The Mongolian Spot, The Taco Truck & More
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26:20In this episode, Jimmy and Megan swap stories about their favorite food finds, from a legendary taco truck on O’Toole to a Mongolian BBQ place tucked beside a questionable pool hall. Since we spend so much time training onsite at client offices across the Bay Area, we’ve been lucky enough to discover some incredible local eats. (Shout out to our am…
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Where Even Are We? Why Bad Directions Matter
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17:26Picture this: there’s an emergency, someone dials 911, and the dispatcher asks for the location. But instead of a clear answer, they get: “Uh… we’re in the Fishbowl?” Or maybe, “We’re by the thing, you know, near the back door?” Not exactly helpful. In this episode, we tackle one of the sneakiest yet most preventable dangers in workplace safety—bad…
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Forklift Safety Gaps: Why Training Matters More Than You Think
19:54
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19:54Think driving a forklift is just like driving a car? Not even close. Forklifts are a leading cause of workplace injuries, and many companies don’t even realize they may be out of compliance with OSHA regulations... until an accident happens and they're in trouble. In this episode you’ll learn why proper forklift training isn’t just a formality, but…
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How We Accidentally Became Business Owners
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25:39Some people plan to start a business; others stumble into it through a series of unexpected events. That’s exactly how Jimmy and Jenny found themselves becoming unexpected entrepreneurs. It all started when Jenny took a safety training class while working at a Silicon Valley startup, and unknowingly crossed paths with the company that would later c…
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The A-ha Moment That Changed How I See Safety
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18:36What if the way we handle emergencies could also be applied to everyday life? In this episode, Jimmy breaks down the safety hierarchy, who to take care of first in an emergency, and why this is important even outside of the safety field. He explains why prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish, it’s strategic, and how this shift in thinking can make you…
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Valentine’s Day is all about love, but sometimes romance comes with unexpected risks. Whether it’s restaurant mishaps, allergic reactions to that fancy dinner, or a surprise proposal that takes a turn for the worse, we’re touching on some safety hazards you might not think about -- until they happen. We’re sharing some of our own Valentine’s Day st…
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Finding a Coworker Unresponsive: What Comes Next?
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24:13It’s a situation no one ever expects -- walking into work and discovering a coworker unresponsive. In this episode, we talk about what to do in those first critical moments, how emergency responders handle the scene, and what happens while waiting for the coroner to arrive. Jimmy shares a firsthand experience from a past job, and a similar event wi…
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First Aid Kits 101: Building the Perfect Kit for Every Situation
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17:30Not all first aid kits are created equal, and if you’ve ever wondered what should go into yours, this episode has you covered! We’re breaking down everything you need to know to assemble the perfect kit for your home, car, or next adventure. From avoiding cheap kits that seem too good to be true (spoiler: they probably are!) to choosing trusted bra…
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Big Changes in First Aid: The Newest AHA Guidelines
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16:51The 2024 updates to first aid guidelines are some of the most significant changes in years, and they’re designed to make emergency response simpler, faster, and more effective. In this episode, we’re breaking down the updates that matter most for everyday situations. Learn how Narcan is now officially recommended for opioid overdoses, why pulse oxi…
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When the Littlest Patients Teach Us the Biggest Lessons
23:43
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23:43Medical emergencies can be scary for anyone -- but what about when you’re a kid? In this episode, Jimmy sits down with his two nieces, Kendall and McKenzie, and his two kids, Jameson and Jorja, to talk about their personal experiences with broken bones, concussions, allergic reactions, and more. From butterfly stitches to snapped bones, the kids op…
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The Aftermath of Unexpected Emergencies: From Santa Cruz to New Orleans
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22:24When the Santa Cruz Wharf partially collapsed, it left more than just broken pilings and debris—it raised questions about safety, emergency response, and long-term resilience. In this episode, we dive into the aftermath of the collapse, including the challenges of cleaning up the piles of debris that washed ashore and the unexpected lessons learned…
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How to Avoid Ending Up Like a Christmas Movie Mishap
16:21
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16:21It’s that time of year again—twinkling lights, festive cheer, and the occasional holiday disaster straight out of a Christmas movie. In this episode, we unwrap the best safety tips to keep your celebrations merry, bright, and injury-free. From avoiding falls while setting up Griswold-level light displays to keeping your Christmas tree from turning …
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Earthquakes & Tsunami Warnings: Did You Feel It?
14:56
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14:56What happens when Northern California gets rocked by multiple earthquakes? A flurry of phone alerts, a dash of confusion, and plenty of "Did you feel it?" texts. Did you get last weeks earthquake and tsunami notifications? Did you even feel the quakes? In this episode, we’re diving into our own earthquake adventures and tackling the age-old questio…
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Let's talk babysitters: the unsung heroes of date nights, holiday parties, and parents’ much-needed sanity breaks! In this episode we're talking about what makes a babysitter great (spoiler: it’s not bossing kids around) and why babysitting is a fantastic first job for teens. From life-saving CPR training to the subtle art of earning a kid’s respec…
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Jell-O Salad and Deep-Fried Turkeys: Surviving Thanksgiving Disasters
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15:30Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and... absolute chaos? Would you agree? In this episode of Life & Safety, we’re tackling some wacky holiday mishaps, so *hopefully* you can enjoy your turkey day drama-free. From carving knife calamities to the risks of deep-frying a turkey (seriously though, dry it off first!), we're talking all things holi…
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Meet the Team! The Instructor Podcast Takeover Episode
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16:40All 3 of our instructors on the same podcast?!? Inconceivable! Meet our team of instructors at Life Safety like never before! In this fascinating episode Jimmy, Megan, and Miguel, share their unique, and undoubtedly interesting paths to becoming EMTs—and eventually, trainers. Ever wonder how organ donation and EMT school could intersect? Miguel’s j…
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Fire Safety Fails: Powder Explosions, Grease Fires & More!
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21:35In this episode, we're turning up the heat with a look at fire safety fails that could have become real disasters. From grease fires to Tesla fires, to powder explosions, we’re sharing real stories of mishaps that took everyone by surprise. Alongside these fiery stories, we’ll break down some simple, smart tips to help you handle fire hazards like …
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Headbangers Beware: Spotting Concussion Symptoms You Can't Ignore
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17:44Got your head in the game? In this episode, we're diving into the world of bumps, bonks, and brain busters—aka concussions! Whether you’re on your office ERT team, a sports parent, a weekend warrior, or just someone who occasionally walks into door frames (no judgment here, we've done it too), knowing the signs of a head injury could save you a hea…
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In the first episode of our Holiday Safety Stuff series, we're diving into all the tricks (and a few treats) to keep your Halloween hijinks safe and fun! Jimmy and Megan tackle everything from setting up spooky decorations to staying visible while trick-or-treating. They've got some hilarious stories, surprising stats, and a few eyebrow-raising mom…
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The Day That Shook The Bay: Tales From The Loma Prieta Earthquake
8:49
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8:49In this special bonus episode, The Day That Shook The Bay: Tales From The Loma Prieta Earthquake, we’re taking a trip back to October 17, 1989, when the Bay Area was rocked by one of California’s most memorable and destructive earthquakes. Jimmy shares his own memories from that day, which involved racing against time on his bike, dodging traffic (…
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The Truth About Tourniquets: Myths, Must-Haves, and Misuses
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22:42Ever wondered if tourniquets are as simple as "just tighten it and you're good"? Think again! In this episode, we discussing the twisty the truth about these life saving tools, busting common myths, and sharing must-know tips for using them effectively. From DIY mistakes (spoiler: belts are not good substitutes) to life-or-death scenarios, we're sh…
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Firefighters & Cancer: The Fight No One Trains For
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14:07In this deeply personal episode we're opening up about a topic that hits close to home: cancer. Firefighters face many dangers on the job, but few are as hidden or as deadly as the increased risk of cancer. Jimmy opens up about startling statistics from the firefighting world, where cancer is responsible for nearly 70% of career firefighter deaths …
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Are You Earthquake Ready? How to Prep, Shake It Off, and Survive
18:47
18:47
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18:47Get ready to rumble! In this episode, we tackle one of nature's wildest forces: earthquakes. Are you ready for "a big one"? We’ll help you shake off the nerves and break down everything you need to know about prepping for the next big quake, or any earthquake that shows up unannounced (oh wait - they all do!) From creating a useful emergency kit to…
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Bumps, Bruises, and Brain Health: Keeping Young Athletes Safe (Without Bubble Wrap!)
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20:15
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20:15Let's talk about youth sports! Not just the bumps and bruises; we’re talking about the really important stuff, like concussions and brain health. Did you know your brain is basically a sponge, and staying hydrated is key to keeping it safe? Yep, we’re getting into that! We’re also sharing personal stories of growing up on the field—from karate kick…
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Surviving Back to School: Germs, Allergies, and Sick Days!
13:42
13:42
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13:42It's back-to-school season, and you know what that means—germy hands, runny noses, and the return of COVID (it refuses to retire, just like your gym teacher)! In this episode of Life and Safety, Jimmy and Megan dive into the chaos of getting kids ready for school while dodging germs, allergies, and surprise sick days. Jimmy shares his tried-and-tru…
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9/11: Where Were You the Day the World Changed?
30:10
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30:10In this special episode, we take a heartfelt look back at the legacy of 9/11 - one of the darkest days in history. Join Jimmy, Megan, and Chris we delve into the ways 9/11 has shaped our lives and the world today. We're discussing personal accounts, memories, and the lasting impact of the tragedy that continues to resonate across generations. We ho…
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Acronyms & Tongue Twisters: The ABCs of Emergency Jargon
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18:05By Life Safety Associates, Inc.
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Stop, Drop, and Upgrade: How to Keep Your Team Ahead of the Curve
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19:17In this episode, we dive into the wild world of safety training and explore how evolving techniques are crucial for keeping your team on the cutting edge. From the days of waving road flares to stop "fire zombies" to the latest in laser fire extinguishers and silicone wound cubes, we'll share some personal stories and hilarious mishaps that highlig…
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What’s in Jimmy’s Go-Bag? Inquiring Minds Want to Know!
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30:56Ever thought about what you'd pack if you had to make a quick escape? Yep, we all have! In fact Jimmy gets this question all the time. So for this episode we're pulling open the zipper on Jimmy's legendary go-bag, and answering one of our students favorite questions... "What's in your go-bag Jimmy?" From the practical to the downright bizarre, you …
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Near-Death to Gratitude: Unbelievable Survival Stories
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19:04How many lives could be saved if everyone had the right training? In this episode Jimmy's got some real-life success stories for you, where training and preparedness made all the difference. With at least ten successful rescues reported by our students, the importance of continuing practice and ongoing training can only be emphasized by this weeks …
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Wildfire Warriors: Strike Teams & Sleep Hacks
27:13
27:13
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27:13Get ready to uncover the demanding realities of firefighting on the front lines. Join us as we reminisce about the unforgettable experiences that come with battling blazes and breaking stuff, all while building bonds that last a lifetime. Jimmy's sharing gritty, real-life stories from wildfire season in California, and giving you an insider’s persp…
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Igniting Awareness: Fire Season Preparedness 101
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25:24
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25:24Is fire season really starting earlier, or are we misinterpreting changing weather patterns and vegetation growth? In this episode we're tackling this common misconception and providing crucial insights into fire safety during California's fire season, which spans from May to October. We'll break down the essential role of prescribed burns by the U…
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Dollar Drinks & $2 Decisions: My Wild Ride as a Barroom EMT
12:49
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12:49In this episode we're taking a trip into the wild world of bar safety and security. Did you know Jimmy used to moonlight as a bouncer at a country rock club? Brace yourself for tales of dollar drink-induced brawls, the unexpected challenges of breaking up fights when half the patrons can't hear you, and quite possibly the most questionable first ai…
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Scene Safety: It's Not Rocket Science (But It Helps to Stay Calm)
15:27
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15:27Have you ever found yourself in a situation where instincts clashed with safety protocols? Join Life Safety's owners, Jimmy & Jenny, as they dive deep into the world of scene safety. From high-pressure emergency situations to everyday parenting challenges, they share personal stories and expert insights to help you stay calm and make informed decis…
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Ever had a summer day turn from fun to frantic? In this episode we've got some essential summer tips and cautionary tales to help you keep safety at top of mind this summer. Learn to spot the early signs of heat-related illnesses like heat rash and heat cramps before they become severe. We've also got some hydration hacks for you, from the perfect …
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Don't Let Your 4th of July Go Up in Smoke!
16:31
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16:31What if your favorite summer holiday could be both fun and safe? On this episode of the Life and Safety Podcast, Megan and I take a trip down memory lane reminiscing about our fondest 4th of July moments. From my unparalleled experiences of watching fireworks over Lake Tahoe to Megan's lively neighborhood parades, we share what makes this holiday s…
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The Aftermath of a 911 Call: Navigating Post-Emergency Challenges
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17:29Welcome to the last episode of our 3-Part 911 series! Have you ever stood, heart racing, as an ambulance fades into the distance with someone you love inside? Our final installment in the 911 series tackles that harrowing moment and what comes next. The adrenaline rush of crisis gives way to a quieter, but no less important, kind of bravery: the re…
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Calling 911: What to Expect When Help Arrives
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18:25Welcome to Part 2 of our 3-Part 911 series! Join us as we pull back the curtain on the high-octane world of emergency responders, where every second counts and every move could mean life or death. We promise to take you through the cacophony of sirens and urgency that unfolds when a crisis strikes and the 911 call goes out. You'll gain a rare glimp…
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Father's Day Laughs & Lessons: a Father-Son Episode
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11:52What if your earliest memory of your dad was discovering he was a real-life hero? Join us for a heartwarming and laugh-out-loud Father's Day special on Life and Safety with Jimmy and Megan, featuring Jimmy's top-notch son, Jameson. We take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, recounting Jameson's childhood curiosity about firefighting, his little fir…
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Welcome to Part 1 of our 3-Part 911 series! Have you ever been in a situation that left you second-guessing whether it was dire enough to dial 911? Well, buckle up and let Jimmy and Megan take you on a whirlwind tour of those critical moments where calling emergency services isn't just a good idea, it's a potential lifesaver. In this episode, we na…
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Don't Hesitate: Equip Yourself with CPR Knowledge and Save a Life
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5:26Can you imagine a scenario where knowing CPR could save a life? This bonus episode is packed with information you can't afford to ignore, especially during CPR Awareness Week! We passionately discuss the critical need for everyone to learn CPR, emphasizing the accessibility of classes through reputable organizations like the American Heart Associat…
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Breaking the Silence: Bridging the Gender Gap in CPR for Women
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17:23Join us as we expose a chilling reality that's costing lives: the gender gap in CPR delivery. Brace yourself for a hard-hitting conversation that shatters the silence on why women are less likely to receive bystander CPR during cardiac emergencies. We're digging deep into the statistics that paint a dire picture for women's heart health, and the so…
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Stop the Bleed: Mastering Bleeding Control with Wound Cubes
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11:27Have you ever been fascinated by the effectiveness of practical tools? In this episode of Life and Safety with Jimmy Rios, we dive into the crucial topic of bleeding control during Stop the Bleed Month. We explore the transformative role of one of our favorite training tools, the Phokus Wound Cube, in emergency preparedness. A tool developed by Nav…
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Stories From the Firehouse: Camaraderie, Laughter, and Eating Paint
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30:44Ever wondered what it's like behind the big red doors of a firehouse? Strap in for an episode that brings you the humor, heart, and heat from my days at Cal Fire. I'll share the insider scoop on the firehouse being a sanctuary and stage for some of the most bizarre drama you'd never expect. Picture this: a firehouse painting project turns into a co…
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Reality vs. TV: Which TV Shows Are Just Blowing Smoke?
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11:01
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11:01Ever wondered if slicing open a windpipe with a steak knife is as legit as TV's finest doctors make it seem? Spoiler alert: it's not, and we've got the lowdown on just how wide the gap between Hollywood heroics and actual hospital hallways really is. Settle in for a laugh-out-loud romp through the world of TV medical dramas, where I'll be your guid…
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When Jimmy started towards a lifesaving career path, little did he know it would lead to co-owning Life Safety, a beacon of training and life-saving acumen. Today, he's spilling the beans on his serendipitous journey from ambulance rides to commanding a company that's all about equipping you with the skills to save lives. Join us as Jimmy, the co-o…
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Ever wondered what a fish and a light bulb have in common? They're both featured in our rollicking rundown of the most mind-boggling true tales from the emergency medicine field. Jimmy and Megan are dishing out a smorgasbord of the good, the bad, and the downright absurd in our latest podcast episode, where everyday objects find their way into the …
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