In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with Rich Raymond, President & CEO of Armstrong Ambulance, and a paramedic with over three decades of experience. From his early days as an EMT to responding to major disasters like Hurricane Katrina and the Wakefield workplace shooting, Rich shares a firsthand look at the high-pressure world of emergency medical services (EMS).
We discuss the intensity of first responder work, the challenges of leadership in EMS, and the unforgettable moments that define a career in saving lives. Whether it’s navigating mass casualty events or the everyday heroism of paramedics, this episode is a deep dive into the life of a frontline worker.
Highlights Include:
• The Wakefield mass shooting – responding to a workplace tragedy • Deploying for Hurricane Katrina – chaos, disaster relief & makeshift hospitals • The realities of EMS – from 911 calls to saving lives • Crazy first responder stories – the wildest calls you won’t believe • The importance of CPR training & knowing how to stop a bleed
Whether you’re interested in EMS, healthcare, or just love jaw-dropping real-life stories, this episode delivers.
Timestamps
00:00 Intro & Welcome to Episode 20 00:52 Red Light Therapy – Does it Work? 04:40 Growing Up in East Boston & Childhood Stories 08:55 Wild High School Stories – The Dom Savio Years 24:15 Becoming an EMT & Moving Up in EMS 36:42 The Man Who Got Run Over & Walked Away – Wildest EMS Calls 49:45 Deploying for Hurricane Katrina – Responding to Disaster 57:18 The Wakefield Workplace Shooting – Inside the Response 1:01:45 The Mental Toll of First Responders & PTSD in EMS 1:07:41 The Life of a St. Bernard Owner (Rich’s 175lb Puppy) 1:12:18 Why Everyone Should Learn CPR & Stop the Bleed Training 1:19:48 Teasing Next Episode – Founding Member of Godsmack Joins the Show
Links & Mentions:
Armstrong Ambulance Services Beem Light Sauna Edgewater Technology shooting Find EMT & Paramedic Training Near You Learn CPR & Stop the Bleed Red Light Therapy: What is It?
Follow us:
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!