

Heavy Lies the Helmet
Mike Boone, Dan Rauh, & Dr. Amanda Humphries
The Heavy Lies the Helmet® Podcast is by critical care professionals, for critical care professionals. Hosted by Mike Boone, Dan Rauh, and Dr. Amanda Humphries, we dive deep into the realities of emergency and critical care medicine.
Our conversations are raw, honest, and practical — cutting through the noise to focus on real-world challenges, clinical decision-making, and the human side of high-acuity care. Whether we’re unpacking complex patient scenarios, discussing the nuances of teamwork and leadership, or highlighting the mental and emotional weight of the job, our podcast offers a space where providers can learn, connect, and feel understood.
No fluff. No corporate agendas. Just real talk for real clinicians.
Our conversations are raw, honest, and practical — cutting through the noise to focus on real-world challenges, clinical decision-making, and the human side of high-acuity care. Whether we’re unpacking complex patient scenarios, discussing the nuances of teamwork and leadership, or highlighting the mental and emotional weight of the job, our podcast offers a space where providers can learn, connect, and feel understood.
No fluff. No corporate agendas. Just real talk for real clinicians.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 3, 2025 • 47min
Episode 133 - Tracheostomy: The Neck's Best Thing
Tracheostomies are increasingly common in both prehospital and critical care transport settings, but they come with unique challenges. In this podcast episode, we break down short-term and long-term complications you may encounter, and how to troubleshoot them in high-stakes environments. From occlusions and dislodgements to bleeding, we’ll cover practical strategies to keep these vulnerable patients safe. Whether you’re new to airway management or a seasoned clinician, this discussion will sharpen your approach to one of the most intimidating airways you’ll encounter. Get CE hours for our podcast episodes HERE! -------------------------------------------- Twitter @heavyhelmet Facebook @heavyliesthehelmet Instagram @heavyliesthehelmet Website heavyliesthehelmet.com Email contact@heavyliesthehelmet.com Disclaimer: Heavy Lies the Helmet’s content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow local guidelines and consult qualified professionals before applying any information. The hosts and guests are not responsible for errors, omissions, or outcomes. Views expressed are their own and do not reflect their employers or affiliates. -------------------------------------------- Crystals VIP by From The Dust | https://soundcloud.com/ftdmusic Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Aug 18, 2025 • 54min
Episode 132 - Prolonged Flight Care w/Dr. Tim Hurtado & Brett Weiner (Big Announcement)
Brett Weiner, a flight paramedic and chief training officer at Anyone Not Ready, and Dr. Tim Hurtado, an emergency physician and EMS director, tackle the challenges of prolonged field care in critical situations. They discuss the adaptability required when faced with resource limitations and the importance of realistic training. The conversation highlights their innovative new course aimed at preparing medical professionals for real-life emergencies, using simulated patients to enhance learning. Proactive patient care and effective decision-making strategies are key themes.

Jul 14, 2025 • 55min
Episode 131 - TXA: The Clot Thickens
Discover the compelling world of Tranexamic Acid (TXA), a medication likened to hot sauce for its wide application in trauma care. Delve into the controversies surrounding TXA's use, from its mechanism of action to its critical role in stopping bleeding. Timing is key; learn why administering TXA within the first hour can make all the difference. Explore the unique challenges of pediatric emergency care and hear gripping real-life stories from the ER that highlight the urgent need for effective interventions.

Jun 13, 2025 • 1h 10min
Episode 130 - Opinion-Based Medicine w/Mike Carunchio
Mike Carunchio, a medic and host of The World's Okayest Medic Podcast, dives deep into the controversies surrounding opinion-based medicine. He challenges the effectiveness of mobile stroke units in urban settings and questions the necessity of specialized pediatric transport teams. The discussion also tackles fluid management choices, particularly the benefits of lactated Ringer's over saline. Plus, Carunchio sheds light on the complexities of sedation-only intubation and the intricate role social media plays in maintaining EMS credibility.

May 20, 2025 • 1h 8min
Episode 129 - Little Lung Problems w/Nate Brown
Nate Brown, a neonatal and pediatric specialist focused on respiratory distress, shares critical insights for managing pediatric emergencies. He breaks down the complexities of conditions like croup, bronchiolitis, and asthma, emphasizing timely interventions and systematic approaches. The conversation covers the importance of clear communication, innovative strategies to reduce anxiety during treatment, and the challenges healthcare professionals face in critical care settings. Brown also highlights the unique factors in pediatric responses, making it a must-listen for those in the medical field.

Apr 9, 2025 • 55min
Episode 128 - Keeping Trauma Close to the Chest
'Tis the season for trauma. (If there truly is a season.) Chest trauma, specifically, can vary in subtlety and severity, primarily due to the presence of multiple vital organs and vessels. In this podcast, we discuss these potentials while focusing on those injuries that are associated with the highest mortality rate. We also discuss why you should think twice before intervening. Get CE hours for our podcast episodes HERE! -------------------------------------------- Twitter @heavyhelmet Facebook @heavyliesthehelmet Instagram @heavyliesthehelmet Website heavyliesthehelmet.com Email contact@heavyliesthehelmet.com Disclaimer: Heavy Lies the Helmet’s content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow local guidelines and consult qualified professionals before applying any information. The hosts and guests are not responsible for errors, omissions, or outcomes. Views expressed are their own and do not reflect their employers or affiliates. -------------------------------------------- Crystals VIP by From The Dust | https://soundcloud.com/ftdmusic Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com

Feb 24, 2025 • 43min
Episode 127 - P.R.E.S. Sure
Explore the complexities of diagnosing Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome, a condition often missed in critical care. Discover the nuances of hypertension management and how vital it is to communicate effectively with patients. Learn about advanced imaging techniques, especially MRI, in pinpointing neurological issues. The hosts share valuable insights from their experiences and discuss the interplay of ventilator settings for critically ill patients, all while weaving in personal anecdotes to make the medical journey relatable.

Jan 23, 2025 • 51min
Episode 126 - Certification Versus Qualification
The debate over whether certifications truly reflect qualifications takes center stage, sparking thoughts on the real-world experiences that shape medical professionals. Personal stories reveal the gap between academic success and practical skills, underscoring the importance of embracing failure as a learning tool in high-stakes environments. Mentorship and continuous learning emerge as essential themes for bridging experience gaps and enhancing patient care, highlighting the dynamic journey of medical emergency service professionals.

Dec 24, 2024 • 45min
Episode 125 - Breaking the Case: The Point of Ultrasound
The podcast dives into the rising importance of Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) in trauma care. It examines real case scenarios, questioning if POCUS lives up to its reputation in emergency settings. Insights on diagnosing undifferentiated shock and fluid management through IVC analysis are shared. The conversation humorously highlights critical thinking in urgent situations, especially dealing with women of childbearing age. Lung ultrasound's vital role in assessing traumatic injuries and respiratory distress is also discussed, showcasing its impact on swift decision-making.

Nov 18, 2024 • 57min
Episode 124 - Canine Care w/George Tarver III
Rick Maricle, an EMS professional and former canine handler with expertise in tactical medicine, joins George Tarver III to discuss the critical aspects of canine care in emergency services. They explore the complexities of establishing canine programs, including transport challenges and legal frameworks. The conversation reveals a surprising focus on heat-related injuries in police canines and underscores the importance of training for handlers. They advocate for stronger community involvement and better resources to elevate canine first aid practices.