Degrees, Development & the Difference Between Good and Great
Don't miss this episode as Eric and Kari dive headfirst into some of the most challenging conversations in EMS. From the debate over national degree requirements for paramedics to asking whether we're truly developing clinicians, or simply checking training boxes, no topic is off limits. Expect honest opinions, thoughtful discussion, a little laughter, and plenty of moments that will challenge the way you think about our profession.
The episode kicks off with what's new in life before jumping into one of the hottest discussions in EMS today: Should there be a national degree requirement for paramedics? Is higher education the next step in advancing our profession, or are there bigger issues we should be addressing first?
Then it's time for this week's Crew Poll, where airway enthusiasts weigh in:
If you had every airway device available and were about to intubate a patient, which laryngoscope would you reach for first and why?
In this week's Deep Dive, Eric and Kari take an honest look at EMS education and competency. Are we truly preparing clinicians, or are we simply checking boxes? They explore the responsibilities of agency leadership, the influence of medical directors on training culture, and what it takes to build providers who are clinically confident, not just technically competent.
The conversation continues with this week's Question from the Crew:
"What separates average providers from exceptional providers?"
The answers may challenge your perspective on growth, professionalism, and what excellence really looks like in EMS.
And, of course, the episode closes with another fun round of Top 3–5, where Eric and Kari debate life's important questions:
- Coffee, tea…or something else entirely?
- What's the best advice you've ever received?
Whether you're a new EMT, seasoned flight clinician, educator, or EMS leader, Episode 93 is packed with authentic conversation, practical insight, and the kind of discussions that continue long after the shift is over.
Clock in, settle in, and join Eric and Kari for another unforgettable shift on The Second Shift.
What is SecondShift?
The shift may be over, but the conversation is just getting started. Join Eric Bauer and Kari Young for the podcast where EMS gets real. Expect honest conversations, current events, clinical controversies, leadership lessons, unforgettable stories, expert guests, and plenty of laughter. No scripts. No politics. No ego. Just two experienced clinicians talking about the profession they love, and the issues that matter most to the people who answer the call. Whether you're commuting, at the station, or finally heading home after a 24-hour shift, Second Shift is where EMS comes to unwind, learn something new, and remember why this job still matters.