Not just trainers: How FTOs build culture, confidence and hotshot crews
Inside EMS13 Juni 2025

Not just trainers: How FTOs build culture, confidence and hotshot crews

In this episode of Inside EMS, Chris Cebollero unpacks what it really means to be a field training officer and, spoiler alert: it’s not just about ticking boxes or passing protocols.

From the importance of professional modeling and emotional intelligence to the dangers of unchecked cynicism among senior field staff, Chris lays out why FTOs must be seen — and supported — as true leaders. He shares his own experiences as a clinical director, discusses how poor habits often trace back to lackluster FTO mentorship, and offers a full blueprint for building an FTO program that not only trains but transforms.

This isn’t about seniority; it’s about strategy. You’ll learn why ongoing training, peer-reviewed reappointments and subject matter ownership turn FTOs into the backbone of your EMS culture. Whether you’re an FTO, want to become one or oversee the program, this is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed.

Memorable quotes

  • “My FTOs were gatekeepers to the organization, and it was important for them to set the standard of what that was going to look like.”

  • “Don't assign the title and hope for the best. Right? Develop the role into a leadership position that inspires people daily.”

  • “You can't build a strong workforce if your trainers aren't trained themselves.”

Rate & review

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.

Avsnitt(717)

Is your EMS agency all talk, no accountability? Here’s how to fix that

Is your EMS agency all talk, no accountability? Here’s how to fix that

What does accountability actually look like in EMS? In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson get into the gritty details — beyond the management-speak — and...

25 Apr 202524min

EMS on the Hill: Why advocacy matters now more than ever

EMS on the Hill: Why advocacy matters now more than ever

Guest host Rob Lawrence joins Kelly Grayson to reflect on the recent EMS on the Hill Day. Rob offers a behind-the-scenes look at his experience leading the California delegation and provides insights ...

11 Apr 202528min

Exhausted and overworked: The fatigue crisis in EMS

Exhausted and overworked: The fatigue crisis in EMS

In this episode of the Inside EMS Podcast, co-host Kelly Grayson is joined by international guest host Rob Lawrence for a candid and timely conversation on one of the most pressing issues in EMS today...

4 Apr 202522min

Future-proofing EMS: How a new course is building results-driven problem solvers

Future-proofing EMS: How a new course is building results-driven problem solvers

Note: Thanks for following the Inside EMS podcast! Enjoy this special EMS One-Stop crossover episode with host Rob Lawrence, who will also join Kelly Grayson as a guest cohost during the month of Apri...

1 Apr 20251h 1min

‘Death was staring me in the face’: Kelly Grayson’s no-BS guide to getting healthy

‘Death was staring me in the face’: Kelly Grayson’s no-BS guide to getting healthy

In honor of First Responder Wellness Week, Inside EMS hosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson go beyond the surface-level tips and dig into what true wellness looks like in this profession. Spoiler: i...

28 Mars 202528min

Show me the money: How EMS can tap into opioid funding

Show me the money: How EMS can tap into opioid funding

Billions of dollars from opioid settlements are flowing into communities, but how does EMS get a slice of the pie? In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, host Chris Cebollero is joined by Corey Ca...

21 Mars 202523min

Pencils down: EMS test-taking tips … from a guy who writes EMS tests

Pencils down: EMS test-taking tips … from a guy who writes EMS tests

Sitting for the National Registry exam might rank up there with colonoscopies in terms of excitement, but EMS educator Dan Limmer recently took the test. Why? To stay sharp, to keep his licenses and t...

14 Mars 202526min

EMS life: Stuck in an ambulance with your work enemy?

EMS life: Stuck in an ambulance with your work enemy?

In EMS, where the stress is high and space is tight, conflict is bound to happen. Whether it’s a personality clash with your partner, frustration over unclear responsibilities or a disagreement with l...

28 Feb 202529min

Populärt inom Politik & nyheter

svenska-fall
aftonbladet-krim
p3-krim
rss-krimstad
fordomspodden
spar
flashback-forever
rss-sanning-konsekvens
aftonbladet-daily
motiv
rss-krimreportrarna
rss-aftonbladet-krim
rss-vad-fan-hande
rss-flodet
rss-klubbland-en-podd-mest-om-frolunda
krimmagasinet
rss-frandfors-horna
politiken
grans
olyckan-inifran