What does it truly take to become a better paramedic?
In this episode of the Paratus Podcast, Dr. Ross Orpet and Will Berry explore why technical knowledge is only one part of becoming an EMS professional.
They discuss the importance of embracing vulnerability, learning from mistakes, and creating a culture where honest conversations and constructive feedback lead to continuous growth.
The conversation also highlights the role of human factors, emotional resilience, deliberate practice, and critical thinking in helping paramedics perform under pressure.
A powerful reminder that becoming your best isn't about being perfect—it's about being willing to learn, adapt, and improve every day.
Books recommended during this podcast episode:
- Sources of Power — Gary Klein
- The Confident Mind — Nate Zinsser
- The Alter Ego Effect — Todd Herman
- The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* — Mark Manson
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored list. These are simply the books referenced during the episode for anyone interested in exploring the topics discussed further.
This Week's Paratus Podcast Guests:
Will Berry is a flight paramedic based in North Carolina with 16 years of experience across rural, suburban, and urban EMS systems. He is the co-host of the Loud and Clear podcast and is passionate about EMS education, human performance, and applying lessons from other industries to improve patient care and clinical decision-making.
Dr. Ross Orpet is board-certified in both Emergency Medical Services and Emergency Medicine. After beginning his career as a paramedic with Denver Health, he went on to complete medical school, residency, and an EMS fellowship, and now practices emergency medicine in southwest Colorado while providing medical direction for multiple EMS agencies.
About Paratus Medical:
Binders. Word documents. Paper printouts.
Medical protocols contain critical knowledge that can save lives, yet they are often trapped in formats that are difficult to manage, track, and use in high-pressure situations.
Frontline professionals are frequently expected to remember hundreds of pages of procedures when seconds matter most.
Paratus Medical develops digital tools that help organizations manage protocols more effectively while supporting frontline responders in emergency and critical care situations.
Our solutions are used across EMS, intensive care units, patient transport services, first responder organizations, maritime operations, and even space medicine through our partnership with the Canadian Space Agency.
Learn more 👉
https://paratusmedical.com/ The Paratus Podcast:
Created in 2025, the Paratus Podcast features short, expert-driven conversations on preparedness, healthcare innovation, and real-world emergency response. Each episode delivers practical insights and stories from professionals working on the front lines. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.