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?
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