Facts fade, stories stick: Why EMS needs better storytellers
Inside EMS5 Sep 2025

Facts fade, stories stick: Why EMS needs better storytellers

Ever been told to “cut the war stories” in EMS? Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson are here to push back. This week’s episode of the Inside EMS podcast dives into the vital role storytelling plays in shaping EMS culture, training, leadership and even public perception. With their signature mix of humor and heart, they explore how the right story — told the right way — can teach more than any protocol ever will.

From instructor pitfalls to leadership mistakes, they share personal wins and failures that built their character — and could build yours too.

You’ll also get 8 rock-solid tips on how to be a better storyteller in the field, in the classroom or at the next crew dinner. Spoiler: It’s not about theatrics; it’s about authenticity, vulnerability, knowing when to pause ... and when to whisper.

Top quotes

  • “Never tell a story without a point. Never make a point without a story.”
  • “The burned hand teaches best.”
  • “Be authentic. Share your wins. Talk about your mistakes.”

Enjoying the show? Contact the Inside EMS team at theshow@ems1.com to share ideas, suggestions and feedback, or let us know if you’d like to join us as a guest.

Episoder(717)

Quick Clip: Focus on the patient, not on the argument

Quick Clip: Focus on the patient, not on the argument

The first priority for any crewmember is patient care, then professionalism and portraying a positive image in the public.

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Inside EMS Podcast: Episode 29

Inside EMS Podcast: Episode 29

Hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss ways EMTs can get the most out of attending a trade show, and how agencies can better keep equipment safe from thieves.

30 Okt 201443min

Quick Clip: Why EMS stations need better security

Quick Clip: Why EMS stations need better security

Hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss how easy it is to steal items like uniforms and ID cards, and why EMS has gotten complacent when it comes to keeping equipment safe.

30 Okt 20142min

Inside EMS Podcast: Episode 28

Inside EMS Podcast: Episode 28

Hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson take the debate of cameras in ambulances further, digging into problems with unnecessary oversight, and practical uses in telemedicine.

27 Okt 201428min

Inside EMS Podcast: Episode 27

Inside EMS Podcast: Episode 27

Hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson discuss the pros and cons of putting cameras the back of rigs, and debate if it makes sense to put more BLS providers on the street while scaling back ALS for c...

17 Okt 201444min

Quick Clip: Can more BLS free up ALS for community roles?

Quick Clip: Can more BLS free up ALS for community roles?

Hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson debate if it makes sense to put more BLS providers on the street while scaling back ALS for calls that better match their skills.

16 Okt 20143min

Quick Clip: How to deal with angry bystanders

Quick Clip: How to deal with angry bystanders

Here are some tactics to help diffuse this situation.

16 Okt 20145min

Quick Clip: How to lead through open communication

Quick Clip: How to lead through open communication

The average tenure for a fire chief in the United States is five years. Chief Wylie begs the question: If that's the case, who in their right mind would put in for that position?

16 Okt 20146min

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