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‘Leadership is an action’: 10 signs of a bad EMS supervisor

Are you guilty of any of these?

Editor’s note: Welcome to the What Paramedics Want podcast series of Inside EMS, sponsored by Pulsara. The state of the industry What Paramedics Want Report explores issues tied to provider recruitment and retention; safety, health and wellness support; technology adoption; and career development, produced in partnership with Fitch & Associates and the National EMS Management Association. Learn more and download your copy.



The What Paramedics Want in 2024 report, produced by EMS1 and Fitch & Associates, found respondents to the 2024 EMS Trend Survey ranked leadership No. 4 in the critical issues facing EMS today (behind only retention, funding & reimbursement, and career development).

In this episode of Inside EMS, cohosts Chris Cebollero and Kelly Grayson expose the unpleasant side of EMS leadership by naming the top 10 signs of a bad manager. From communication breakdowns to micromanagement nightmares, they explore what makes some managers, well … not so great, while dishing out hard truths about inconsistent leadership, the dangers of favoritism, and the importance of empathy.

Want to know if your manager is part of the problem – or if you’re on your way to becoming one? Check it out!

Top quotes

  • “Communication is the language of leadership.”
  • “When you show no concern for the employees, for their interests, you have a breeding ground for developing a toxic work environment.”
  • “The true measurement of workforce success is how engaged, satisfied and productive the workforce is – nothing else matters.”
  • “You need to care about these people and love them a little bit, as well.”

Download the industry report for insights into EMS staffing and operation trends, and how providers are thinking about career longevity

ABOUT THE SPONSOR
Whether replacing radio reports, alerting specialty teams, or managing mass casualty incidents, Pulsara simplifies communication. Pulsara scales to meet your dynamic communication needs. From routine patient alerts to managing large-scale emergencies, every responder and clinician connects seamlessly. Familiar yet powerful, Pulsara streamlines your response, from routine transfers to regional disasters. One tool. Every day. Regardless of event. Discover more at Pulsara.com.

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The Inside EMS podcast is a regular expert discussion of hot topics, clinical issues, operational and leadership lessons for EMTs, paramedics and chiefs