Episode 39 - Earn the Patch: Interview Principles

In this episode of The Rogue Medic Podcast, we take a closer look at evidence awareness and handling for search and rescue personnel. While SAR teams are focused on locating and helping the subject, they may also be operating in an area that could later become part of a criminal, civil, or investigative case.We discuss the basics of recognizing, protecting, documenting, and reporting potential evidence, as well as scene preservation, contamination, chain of custody, and the importance of knowing when not to touch or move something. More importantly, we explore the idea that everything is evidence, not just the physical clues found in the field. GPS tracks, maps, radio logs, clue reports, assignment sheets, search-area plans, and the documentation created during the operation may all become important pieces of the overall story.This episode is about helping SAR personnel think beyond the obvious clue on the ground and understand how their actions, observations, and documentation can impact what happens long after the search is over.Hosts: Jason "Big J" TartaloneIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com.#SearchAndRescue #NASAR #Leadership #Training #ProfessionalDevelopment #RogueMedicPodcast

What should a Search and Rescue responder carry into the field—and more importantly, why?In this episode of the Rogue Medic Podcast, we take a practical look at the SAR day pack from the perspective of mission readiness rather than simply building a gear list. We discuss why responders carry a day pack, the role it plays in personal self-sufficiency and operational effectiveness, and the major equipment categories that should be considered when preparing for a mission.Topics include personal protective equipment, environmental protection, navigation, communications, lighting and power, medical capability, survival and emergency equipment, search-specific gear, documentation, subject support, and specialty equipment.We also discuss one of the most important considerations in pack preparation: balancing capability with weight. The goal is not to carry everything you might possibly need, but to carry the right capabilities for the environment, assignment, and operational period.Whether you are new to Search and Rescue or have years of field experience, this episode provides a framework for evaluating your pack based on purpose, preparedness, and mission requirements—not just a checklist.Stay prepared. Keep training. And make sure everything in your pack earns its place.Hosts: Jason "Big J" TartaloneIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com.#SearchAndRescue #NASAR #Leadership #Training #ProfessionalDevelopment #RogueMedicPodcast

Professionalism in EMS starts long before the uniform goes on or the job interview begins. Every email, classroom interaction, clinical shift, and first impression helps shape your reputation.In this episode, we discuss practical tips for EMS students and providers, including creating a professional email signature, properly opening and closing emails, dressing appropriately, making strong introductions, accepting feedback, managing social media, and treating your EMS course like a three- or four-month job interview.Your certification may get your foot in the door, but your communication, appearance, attitude, reliability, and reputation will determine which opportunities remain open.Whether you are preparing to enter EMS, currently completing a course, or looking to advance your career, this episode offers simple ways to present yourself as the professional you want others to see.Hosts: Jason "Big J" TartaloneIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com.#SearchAndRescue #NASAR #Leadership #Training #ProfessionalDevelopment #RogueMedicPodcast

Ever wonder what a Position Task Book actually is and why so many emergency services and Search and Rescue organizations rely on them? In this episode, we break down the purpose of PTBs, how they are used to develop competent leaders and responders, and why demonstrating skills in the field is far more important than simply attending a class.We also take a closer look at the National Association for Search and Rescue Position Task Book system, discussing how it helps standardize qualifications, document experience, and create a clear pathway for professional development within the SAR community.Whether you're a new responder, an experienced team member, or an agency leader responsible for training and qualification, this episode will help you better understand how PTBs contribute to safer operations, stronger teams, and more capable rescuers.Tune in and join the conversation as we explore the difference between being trained and being truly qualified. Hosts: Jason "Big J" TartaloneIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com.#SearchAndRescue #NASAR #Leadership #Training #ProfessionalDevelopment #RogueMedicPodcast

Episode Description:In this episode, we take a hard look at a mindset that’s quietly undermining field training programs and the idea that an FTO’s job is just to sign off skills while the trainee manages everything else.That’s not how this works.Field Training Officers aren’t checklist managers. They are facilitators of the entire training process. From administrative oversight and documentation to education, competency development, and gap identification, the responsibility doesn’t sit solely on the trainee. It sits with the FTO.Because at the end of the day, the trainee may carry the book……but the FTO carries the responsibility.Hosts: Jason "Big J" TartaloneIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com.

Episode Description:Getting the patch (or the job) isn’t about charm, scripted answers, or checking boxes. It’s about proving you’re ready to be trusted with the job, the team, and the mission. In this episode, we dive into what interview panels are really evaluating when they sit across from you. From mindset and preparation to professionalism under pressure, we unpack how candidates either earn credibility or quietly lose it before the interview even ends. Whether you’re interviewing for EMS, fire, SAR, or leadership roles, these principles apply anywhere standards matter and the patch has to be earned.This isn’t about gaming the system. It’s about showing up as the kind of professional teams want beside them at 0300 when things go sideways.Episode OutlineWhat “Earn the Patch” actually meansPreparation beyond the résuméProfessionalism: before, during, and after the interviewHow interview panels assess mindset and characterAnswering scenario and pressure-based questionsCommon mistakes that cost candidates the patchLeaving a strong final impressionHosts: Jason "Big J" TartaloneIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com.

Episode Description: In this episode, we dive into one of the most critical yet often overlooked skills in austere and wilderness medicine—patient packaging. Whether it’s a multi-system trauma on a scree slope, a hypothermic hiker deep in the backcountry, a caver with unstable chest trauma, or a mountain biker with a TBI, how you secure, protect, and move your patient can make or break their outcome.We’ll explore the goals, concepts, and challenges of patient packaging, including:Stabilizing injuries without sacrificing access for ongoing careProtecting patients from environmental extremes during prolonged evacuationsBalancing speed versus precision when every second countsReal-world case scenarios that test creativity and adaptabilityJoin us as we unpack the principles of stabilize, protect, and move, and discuss how mastering patient packaging isn’t just about transport—it’s about survival.Hosts: Jason "Big J" TartaloneIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com.

In this episode, we dive into the power of mentorship in EMS and why it matters now more than ever. Every provider remembers what it felt like starting out—unsure, overwhelmed, and hoping for someone to show them the ropes. This conversation challenges you to step into that role for the next generation: to be the mentor you once wished for. We’ll explore what makes an effective mentor, how to balance guidance with accountability, and why mentorship shapes not only careers but the culture of EMS itself. Hosts: Jason "Big J" TartaloneIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com.

 Boots, Brains, and Backbone: The Weight of the FTOIn this episode, we get real about one of the most critical — and often underappreciated — roles in EMS: the Field Training Officer. Whether you're training fresh recruits or shaping seasoned providers, being an FTO isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s about leadership, mentorship, accountability, and setting the tone for a provider’s entire career.We break down:The mindset shift from clinician to educatorWhy FTOs must model professionalism under pressureThe dangers of complacency and “passing the problem along”How great FTOs build confident, competent, and safe providersStrategies for providing feedback that actually sticksIf you're an FTO, want to become one, or just want to understand the responsibility that comes with shaping the next generation of EMS providers — this one's for you. It’s not a title. It’s a duty.Hosts: Jason "Big J" TartaloneIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com.

Venom and Voices: A Conversation with Dr. Ben AboIn this thrilling and insightful episode, we’re joined by the legendary Dr. Ben Abo — emergency physician, medical toxinologist, and venomous animal expert. We dive deep into the world of envenomation's, snakebite medicine, and the vital role of medical voice and advocacy in wilderness and austere environments.From his frontline experiences with venomous creatures to his work shaping national protocols and wilderness medicine education, Dr. Abo brings a unique blend of science, stories, and soul. Whether you're an EMS provider, SAR medic, or simply a curious mind, this episode is packed with real-world takeaways and unforgettable moments.🩺 Topics include:Common myths and truths about snakebitesBest practices in prehospital envenomation managementThe reality of venomous species in the U.S.Building better communication between field responders and toxicologistsWhy advocacy and education are critical to saving livesStrap in — it’s an episode that bites back (in the best way).Hosts: Jason "Big J" Tartalone & Jeff KwiecienGuests:  Dr. Ben Abo  - Venom 1 & 2 FloridaIf you have comments you would like to share or a topic for a discussion, hit us up at [email protected] or click the contact link on our webpage at www.SergeantRescue.com