Life Amidst Conflict: Ukraine from the Frontlines with David Stanton and Shawn Brodzik

In this conversation, we will examine some of the current reflections on the Ukraine crisis with David and Shawn. We will examine what it is currently like on the ground, some of the emerging needs and how David and Shawn believe they can be met. We dig into David and Shawn’s background in Ukraine and how this has evolved over time. We will look at our guest's anecdotal reflections on the conflict currently and some of the main factors that have changed and some that have remained over time such as the Ukrainian resiliency and mindset.

David is a special rescue paramedic who specialises in austere environments and low-resource medicine. Often working solo in international theatres, David doubles as a REMS team leader and team barista. In addition to his operational work, David is a professor of prehospital medicine teaching paramedicine, crisis and crew resource management and human factors.

When not working you can usually find him with a book, classic cocktail and cigar.

Shawn Brodzik has over nine years of experience in prehospital and emergency medicine. He has a passion for wilderness medicine, having started his career in Wyoming and Buffalo, New York. In addition to his wilderness experience, Shawn has spent six years serving communities in need around the world, providing capacity building, support to diplomatic missions and performing medevacs for critically ill patients in conflict zones. With his experience in critical care, tactical and austere medicine, Shawn has a wealth of knowledge and expertise to offer. His deep commitment to helping others and providing quality medical care in the most challenging of circumstances has earned him a reputation as a compassionate and skilled medic.