FireRescue1’s Better Every Shift Podcast spotlights the passion and perseverance of firefighters. Hosted by Madison, Wisconsin, Firefighter Aaron Zamzow, the show brings kitchen table conversations to the airwaves, always focused on solutions, positivity and the realities of station life. Zamzow and guests tackle myriad hot topics, whether fire service, news or even pop culture-focused, bringing some levity to the often very serious nature of the profession. Dig into what drives firefighters to improve themselves, their crew, even the fire service as a whole. Listen in to get better every day, every call, every shift.
Episodes
Thursday May 09, 2024
‘I’m definitely not a quitter’: Kate Smith on EMS and obstacle racing as an amputee
Thursday May 09, 2024
Thursday May 09, 2024
“I absolutely do have bad days. I just make sure I don’t let myself give up.” EMT Kate Smith, who began her public safety journey as a junior firefighter and EMS explorer at 14, before becoming a below-the-knee amputee at 16, shares how EMS helped reveal an inner strength that propelled her to where she is today – working to complete paramedic school, training for obstacle course races and inspiring others through her Adaptive Kate TikTok videos. Plus, we dig into all this:
- The high school job shadow requirement that drove her love of public safety
- How her work in EMS ultimately helped reveal the true reason she lost her leg – suspected Münchausen Syndrome by proxy
- The impact of Spartan races on her mental health
- Her thoughts on gratitude after trauma and overcoming obstacles to pursue your passions
Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!