Our Don't Risk It! podcast series is released bi-weekly, where the VFIS team and special guests discuss a variety of safety-related topics, EMS trends, and ways crews can help mitigate risk. Each episode offers something unique—from expert insights and helpful tips to real-world experiences from the field.
As we look at the valuable podcast episodes our VFIS team has released so far in 2026, a few stand out as the most listened to.
Captain Randy Gates, first responder, wellness educator, and founder of Breath of Fire, discusses what led him to emergency services, the importance of mental health, and how he teaches breathwork to first responders. Learn how breathwork can be a proactive technique to relax the mind and body in emergency services.
Melanie Kempf of Lancaster EMS shares her experience of what began as a routine call, then quickly turned into a violent, lifechanging event. Learn how this event affected her mental health and inspired her to help future first responders cope with trauma.
Sarah Talerico, VFIS LOSAP Client Relationship Manager, joins our podcast host, Chris Rodgers, to discuss best practices to help you properly maintain your Length of Service Awards Program (LOSAP). Learn about the important paperwork, records, and information you need to keep your LOSAP up to date.
We hope you enjoy listening to the Don’t Risk It! podcast series just as much as we enjoy putting it together. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or are a part of the 20,000 first responders who have been listening along, thank you for being here.