An ice fisherman’s hut plunges into freezing waters, and the clock starts ticking. How do emergency responders navigate extreme cold, unpredictable environments, and limited resources to save lives? In this episode of Medics Musings and Mayhem, Doc Dave, medic and firefighter Phil Aguet, and NOW newly minted Dr. Regan Washist tackle the real-world challenges of hypothermia response in rural settings. Join us as we break down critical pre-hospital care strategies, rapid assessment techniques, and the life-saving interventions that matter most when time and temperature are working against you. From hands-on field protocols to the complexities of rural emergency departments, this conversation is packed with expert insights, practical takeaways, and a dose of humor. Whether you're an EMT, first responder, healthcare provider, or just someone fascinated by high-stakes emergency medicine, this episode will change the way you think about cold-weather rescues. Stay warm, stay prepared, and tune in now!

Host: David Collins, MD, FACEP

Co-host: Regan Washist, MD (congrats Regan!) and Phil Aguet!

Editor/Reviewer: Michelle Collins

Editing Wizard: Phil Aguet

Contact us at medicsmusingsandmayhem@gmail.com

Check out our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.medicsmusingsandmayhem.com⁠

EMS isn’t just about protocols and procedures—it’s about the emotional toll of saving lives and navigating impossible situations. In this episode, Doc Dave, along with co-hosts, newly minted Dr. Regan Washist and Jason Kells, MS I, dive into the raw realities of EMS work. They share personal experiences with traumatic calls, from a cardiac arrest involving an infant to a devastating pediatric trauma, and discuss how these moments shape first responders mentally and physically. The conversation tackles adrenaline crashes—that intense energy surge followed by emotional exhaustion—and explores how medics and EMTs can manage their recovery. They also break down the back-to-work mentality and the pressure to immediately move on after tragic events, highlighting how leadership and peer support can play a role in fostering resilience. From peer mentorship to mental health resources, this episode sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of emergency responders and what needs to change to better support them. Whether you’re an EMT, paramedic, first responder, or just curious about what happens behind the sirens, this conversation will leave you with a new appreciation for the resilience of those on the frontlines.

Host: David Collins, MD, FACEP

Co-host: Regan Washist, MD (congrats Regan!) and Jason Kells, MS I; brief cameo from our very own Phil Aguet!

Editor/Reviewer: Michelle Collins

Editing Wizard: Phil Aguet

Contact us at medicsmusingsandmayhem@gmail.com

Check out our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.medicsmusingsandmayhem.com⁠⁠

If you or someone you know is struggling...

• ⁠findhelp.org⁠

• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline - Dial 988

Join Dr. David and Phil as they dive deep into the world of medical education—how it’s learned, how it’s taught, and where to find the best resources to sharpen your knowledge. From prehospital emergency medicine to hospital-based expertise, they’ll explore invaluable tools, strategies, and insights to help learners and educators alike. Plus, get a sneak peek at some exciting new directions the podcast is heading in! Whether you're a seasoned clinician, an eager student, or simply passionate about medicine, this episode is packed with knowledge you won’t want to miss.

Host: David Collins, MD, FACEP

Co-host: Phil Aguet

Editor/Reviewer: Michelle Collins

Editing Wizard: Phil Aguet

Contact us at medicsmusingsandmayhem@gmail.com

Check out our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.medicsmusingsandmayhem.com⁠