AT Pit Crew Podcast

Ray Castle
AT Pit Crew Podcast

Hosted by Ray Castle, an athletic trainer and EMT with 30+ years of experience, The AT Pit Crew Podcast covers sports emergency care topics with expert guests, including athletic trainers, physicians, EMS, and athletes. The show focuses on the "Pitcrew" approach to emergency care—a team-based, coordinated response to on-field emergencies. Each episode explores hot topics, real-world experiences, and best practices to improve emergency response in sports settings. Tune in for expert insights and practical tips to elevate your care.

Episodes

  1. FEB 28

    Advice Line with Ray Castle ATC, NREMT

    CEU Credit AvailableEarn CEU credit for this course and explore 58+ Sports Emergency Care Courses at CEUnleashed.com – an annual subscription is just $4.99/year! Episode Summary In this special edition of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, host Dr. Ray Castle, ATC, NREMT—CEO of Action Medicine Consultants—launches the new Advice Line series. After gathering pressing questions from athletic trainers at a recent conference, Ray takes the mic solo to tackle key emergency care challenges faced by clinicians in the field. This episode dives into:✔ Strategies for managing the current rectal thermometer shortage in exertional heat stroke assessment✔ Building confidence in emergency situations—from training strategies to real-world application✔ How to stay sharp in emergency care when you’re not practicing daily✔ The importance of equipment checks and preparation for game-day readiness✔ Selecting the right airway management devices based on patient size and scenario Ray shares practical solutions, expert insights, and personal experiences—including his first on-field cardiac arrest case in 34+ years of sports medicine practice. He also previews upcoming hands-on content, including a video demonstration on airway management techniques. Key Takeaways ✅ Adapt & Overcome – Workarounds for discontinued rectal thermometers in heat illness management✅ Training = Confidence – Practice-based scenario training is critical for emergency preparedness✅ Stay Ready – Regular equipment checks & EAP reviews prevent critical failures in emergencies✅ Know Your Airway Tools – Choosing the right airway device for the right scenario can save lives✅ Learn & Evolve – Every medical encounter is an opportunity to refine your emergency response About the Host: Dr. Ray Castle, ATC, NREMT Dr. Ray Castle is a nationally recognized leader in sports emergency care, with over 34 years of experience in athletic training and event medicine. As the CEO of Action Medicine Consultants and host of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, Ray is dedicated to advancing medical preparedness for athletic trainers and emergency providers in sports settings. Support the Show! ✅ Like, subscribe, and share this episode with your network!✅ For more episodes and updates, visit: www.actionmed.co/podcast Legal Disclaimer The medical information provided in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. Stay prepared. Stay proactive. See you next time on the AT Pit Crew Podcast!

    15 min
  2. FEB 12

    Performing Emergency Care "Art": From Circus to BMX with Trish Bare-Grounds ATC

    CEU Credit AvailableEarn CEU credit for this course and explore 58+ Sports Emergency Care Courses at CEUnleashed.com – an annual subscription is just $4.99/year! Episode Summary In this high-energy episode of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, host Ray Castle welcomes Trish Bare Grounds, a leading expert in performing arts and action sports emergency care. Trish has spent decades pioneering medical coverage for non-traditional sports, from BMX and freestyle motocross to circus performances and combat sports. She shares insights on:✔ Unique emergency planning strategies for non-traditional settings✔ Challenges in managing spinal injuries, airway emergencies, and extractions in high-risk environments✔ How to train both medical and non-medical personnel for emergency response Trish’s real-world experiences—including responding to critical injuries during circus performances, BMX competitions, and international Taekwondo events—offer invaluable lessons for medical professionals working in unpredictable sports and performance settings. Key Takeaways ✅ EAPs must be customized to venue-specific challenges (e.g., aerial rigs, ramps, confined spaces).✅ EMS access limitations require alternative extrication strategies in action sports.✅ Athletic trainers & emergency providers must adapt traditional protocols to non-traditional environments.✅ Collaboration with stagehands, riggers, and event staff is crucial for effective emergency response.✅ Mental preparation & real-world scenario training enhance emergency response effectiveness. About the Guest: Trish Bare Grounds, ATC Trish Bare Grounds, ATC, has extensive experience in emergency response for non-traditional sports. She has worked with USA Taekwondo, BMX events, freestyle motocross, and Ringling Bros. Circus, developing innovative emergency action plans tailored to high-risk performance environments. Follow Trish on: LinkedIn: @trishbaregrounds Twitter: @trishbare Production Credits This podcast is a production of Action Medicine Consultants, LLC. Legal Disclaimer The medical information provided in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. Support the Show! ✅ Like, subscribe, and share this episode with your network!✅ For more episodes and updates, visit: www.actionmed.co/podcast Stay prepared. Stay proactive. See you next time on the AT Pit Crew Podcast!

    41 min
  3. FEB 6

    Mastering Lacrosse EAPs: Emergency Care Insights from USA Lacrosse’s Kellie Loehr ATC

    CEU Credit Available Visit www.CEUnleashed.com to earn CEU credit for this course and access 50+ Sports Emergency Care Courses. Annual subscription for all courses is just $4.99/year! Episode Summary: In this high-impact episode of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, host Ray Castle welcomes Kellie Loehr, ATC, head athletic trainer at USA Lacrosse. Kellie is a seasoned expert in sports emergency care, specializing in lacrosse. She dives into the essentials of Emergency Action Plan (EAP) development, including the unique challenges of lacrosse equipment, emergency protocols, and best practices for collaborating with EMS at events. Kellie shares valuable lessons learned from her experiences managing international lacrosse tournaments, highlights innovative strategies for improving athlete safety, and provides insight into how to continuously evolve emergency protocols. Key Takeaways: Customizing EAPs: EAPs for lacrosse require sport-specific considerations, including differences between men’s and women’s equipment and injury patterns like commotio cordis. Helmet and Equipment Removal: Learn why lacrosse helmet removal differs from football and why poorly fitted helmets pose a challenge. EMS Collaboration: Effective communication and relationship-building with EMS is vital. Kellie stresses proactive planning through joint trainings and site visits. Lessons from Major Events: Discover how proactive planning helped manage emergencies during the Women's World Lacrosse Championship and how lessons from that event improved future protocol development. Athlete and Parent Communication: Building trust through transparency and education is critical to ensuring injuries are reported promptly and handled appropriately. About the Guest: Kellie Loehr, ATC, is the head athletic trainer at USA Lacrosse and works with MedStar Health in Maryland. With nearly a decade of experience coordinating medical coverage for over 200 annual lacrosse events, including international tournaments, Kellie has been a driving force in improving emergency care planning and response for the sport. Connect with Kellie Loehr: Twitter: @kellie_loehrLinkedIn: @kellieabendschoenloehr Production Credits: This podcast is a production of Action Medicine Consultants, LLC. Legal Disclaimer: The medical information provided in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. Support the Show: Make sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your network! For more episodes and updates, visit www.actionmed.co/podcast. Stay prepared. Stay proactive. See you next time on the AT Pit Crew Podcast!

    56 min
  4. JAN 29

    Improving SCA Outcomes With The "WISE 5": Expert Insights From Dr. James Kyle MD, FASCM, FAAFP

    **CEU Credit Available** Visit www.CEUnleashed.com to earn CEU credit for this course PLUS 55+ Sports Emergency Care Courses. Annual subscription $4.99/year for ALL courses! Episode Summary:In this episode of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, Dr. Jim Kyle discusses the WISE 5 initiative, which focuses on improving emergency response protocols for young athletes experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. The conversation covers the importance of early recognition, the role of athletic trainers, advancements in resuscitation techniques, and the need for ongoing education and collaboration between EMS and sports medicine professionals. Dr. Kyle emphasizes the critical first five minutes of response and the integration of new technologies and protocols to enhance survival rates in cardiac emergencies. Key Takeaways: WISE 5 Initiative: A program designed to enhance emergency response and preparedness for young athletes. Lessons from Damar Hamlin: His cardiac arrest incident underscored the importance of early recognition and response in sports medicine. Survival Rates: Timely intervention with two AED shocks can greatly improve survival outcomes. Second Stage of Resuscitation: Effective emergency care hinges on what occurs after initial defibrillation and CPR. Role of Athletic Trainers: They are critical in executing and coordinating emergency response protocols on the field. Airway and CO2 Management: Monitoring CO2 levels and maintaining a clear airway are essential components of resuscitation efforts. Collaboration for Success: Implementing protocols like WISE 5 requires strong partnerships with local EMS and ongoing training. About the Guest:Dr. Jim Kyle has over 40 years of experience as an emergency and sports medicine physician and currently serves as Executive Director of The Kyle Group. He has led numerous medical initiatives to improve healthcare and emergency response, particularly in the rural communities of southern West Virginia. Dr. Kyle is the Medical Director for WV Region 1 EMS and the NRCTC Paramedic Education Program. He is the creator of The Friday Night Medical Time Out and The Wise Five Initiative, which promote enhanced emergency care protocols. His past roles include team physician at multiple universities and for U.S. Soccer’s Under-17 World Cup Team. Dr. Kyle also served as a team physician at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games and is a charter member of the American Medical Society of Sports Medicine. His contributions earned him induction into the Marshall University Sports Medicine Hall of Fame. Connect with Dr. Jim Kyle: Email:  Instagram: @thekyle.group Facebook:  The Kyle Group Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@TheKyleGroup Production CreditsThis podcast is a production of Action Medicine Consultants, LLC. Legal DisclaimerThe medical information provided in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. Make sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your network. For more episodes, visit www.actionmed.co/podcast. Stay prepared. Stay proactive. See you next time!

    50 min
  5. CPR and AED in Schools: Insights from Mike Hopper, ATC

    JAN 22

    CPR and AED in Schools: Insights from Mike Hopper, ATC

    **CEU Credit Available** Visit www.CEUnleashed.com to earn CEU credit for this course PLUS 50+ Sports Emergency Care Courses. Annual subscription $4.99/year for ALL courses! Episode Summary:In this impactful episode of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, host Ray Castle welcomes Mike Hopper, head athletic trainer at Bishop Lynch High School in Dallas, Texas. Mike is a seasoned athletic trainer and advocate for CPR training and AED accessibility in schools. Drawing from personal experiences, including a life-saving cardiac emergency on his campus, Mike offers valuable strategies and actionable advice for implementing effective CPR and AED programs in educational settings. The conversation highlights the critical importance of emergency preparedness for not only athletes but also staff, students, and visitors. Mike’s firsthand accounts emphasize the value of proactive training and planning, as well as the evolving role of athletic trainers in fostering safer school environments. Key Takeaways: CPR and AED Advocacy: Mike discusses the necessity of fostering a culture of emergency preparedness within schools and communities. Real-Life Success Story: Hear the details of a cardiac save at Bishop Lynch High School, showcasing the power of teamwork and training. Practical Advice: Learn how to secure funding, train faculty and students, and maintain AED functionality. Breaking Silos: Insights on building collaborative relationships between athletic trainers, school nurses, and administrators to enhance campus-wide safety. Future of AED Awareness: The potential impact of federal legislation and technological advancements in emergency response tools. About the Guest:Mike Hopper, MS, LAT, ATC, is the head athletic trainer at Bishop Lynch High School and a passionate advocate for CPR training and AED accessibility. With over a decade of experience, Mike has developed innovative approaches to emergency preparedness, positively impacting the lives of students, athletes, and faculty. Connect with Mike Hopper: Email: mike.hopper@bishoplynch.org Twitter: @mnhopper1s LinkedIn: Mike Hopper Production CreditsThis podcast is a production of Action Medicine Consultants, LLC. Legal DisclaimerThe medical information provided in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. Make sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your network. For more episodes, visit www.actionmed.co/podcast. Stay prepared. Stay proactive. See you next time!

    40 min
  6. 2024 Rearview Mirror and Fueling Up For 2025: Year in Review with Ray Castle and Ronnie Harper

    12/31/2024

    2024 Rearview Mirror and Fueling Up For 2025: Year in Review with Ray Castle and Ronnie Harper

    SUMMARY   In this episode of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, Ray Castle and Ronnie Harper reflect on their journey through 2024, discussing their wins, challenges, and future plans. They emphasize the importance of community in sports emergency care, the evolution of their EventMedical360 service, and the launch of their online course platform, CEUnleashed, to the AT Pit Crew Podcast and the Pit Crew Sports Emergency Care Course. The conversation highlights their commitment to improving emergency medicine education for athletic trainers and the collaborative efforts that will shape their initiatives moving forward. takeaways Ronnie Harper has joined as a partner, enhancing the team's capabilities. Reflecting on the challenges and successes of 2024 is crucial for growth. The EventMedical360 service has evolved significantly, focusing on quality and standardization. CEUnleashed offers affordable online courses to improve emergency care education. Building a community around sports emergency care is a priority for the future. The partnership with the LSU/OLOL Championship Health Partnership has opened new opportunities for workshops and training. Systemizing business operations mirrors the accreditation processes in academia. Improving sports emergency care requires collaboration among all stakeholders. The Pit Crew Sports Emergency Care Course emphasizes hands-on training over traditional lectures. Feedback and continuous improvement are key components of their training programs. Connect with Action Medicine Consultants!Website: www.actionmed.co SOCIAL: @actionmedco Production CreditsThis podcast is a production of Action Medicine Consultants, LLC.

    41 min
  7. 11/19/2024

    Emergency Preparedness for High School Sports: Dr. Ronnie Harper ATC, NREMT Explains

    Episode Summary:In this episode of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, Ray Castle sits down with Dr. Ronnie Harper, EdD, ATC, NREMT, to explore the critical elements of emergency medicine in high school sports. With years of experience in trauma management and emergency response, Dr. Harper discusses the importance of emergency action plans, routine training drills, and effective communication in ensuring athlete safety. He highlights the role of athletic trainers as first responders and the significance of collaboration with EMS and medical directors. Dr. Harper shares personal stories that underscore the value of preparedness, emphasizing how proactive measures, clear protocols, and education for athletes and parents can make a difference in emergency situations. Listeners will leave with actionable insights to enhance their own emergency preparedness in sports medicine settings. Key Takeaways: Emergency Action Plans: Regular updates and team-wide understanding are crucial. Training and Drills: Routine preparation builds confidence and improves response times. Team Roles: Clarity about roles during emergencies ensures effective collaboration. Injury Reporting: Educating athletes and parents about reporting injuries is essential for timely care. Calmness Under Pressure: Staying composed can dramatically affect outcomes in emergencies. Collaboration with EMS: Building relationships with local EMS and medical directors is key. Continuous Learning: Athletic trainers must stay current with emergency medicine practices. Proactive Preparedness: Taking preventive steps reduces the likelihood of crises. About the Guest: Dr. Ronnie Harper, EdD, ATC, NREMT, is an expert in high school sports emergency medicine with extensive experience in trauma management and emergency preparedness. A passionate advocate for athlete safety, Dr. Harper combines his knowledge as an athletic trainer and emergency medical professional to enhance care and response protocols in high school athletics. Connect with Dr. Ronnie Harper ATC, NREMTEmail: ronnie@actionmed.co  X: @RonnieMSD LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ronnieharper/  Production CreditsThis podcast is a production of Action Medicine Consultants, LLC.

    31 min
  8. 11/12/2024

    Two Hats, One Mission: Emergency Care with Caitlin Place, ATC, NREMT

    **CEU Credit Available**  Visit www.CEUnleashed.com to earn CEU credit for this course PLUS 50+ Sports Emergency Care Courses. Annual subscription $4.99/year for ALL courses! Episode Summary: In this episode of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, Ray Castle sits down with Caitlin Place, a dual-credentialed athletic trainer and EMT, to discuss her unique approach to emergency care in athletic settings. Caitlin shares her journey in balancing the roles of an athletic trainer and EMT, providing insights into how her combined credentials enhance her ability to respond to critical situations. With experience across various sports environments, Caitlin offers practical advice on handling on-field emergencies, managing high-stress scenarios, and bridging the gap between athletic training and emergency medical services. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the skills and mindset needed to provide high-quality care during sports emergencies, as well as Caitlin’s thoughts on the evolving role of athletic trainers in emergency preparedness. This episode provides a deep dive into the specialized knowledge required to manage sports injuries effectively from both a prehospital and rehabilitative perspective. Key Takeaways: Dual Role of Athletic Trainer and EMT: Caitlin shares the advantages of holding both credentials and how each role informs her approach to care. Emergency Care in Sports: Key considerations when managing sports injuries, from immediate response to long-term care. Bridging AT and EMS: Insights into collaborating with EMS providers and enhancing care for athletes through interdisciplinary teamwork. Managing High-Stress Situations: Practical advice on staying calm, focused, and effective in fast-paced, high-stakes situations. Athletic Training and Emergency Preparedness: Caitlin’s thoughts on the growing importance of emergency care skills for athletic trainers. About the Guest: Caitlin Place is a dual-credentialed athletic trainer and EMT, dedicated to advancing emergency care in sports settings. Her background spans both athletic training and EMS, making her uniquely qualified to manage sports-related emergencies with expertise in first response and injury management. Caitlin’s experience includes working in diverse athletic environments, where she combines her skills to improve athlete safety and care. Connect with Caitlin Place: Email: caitrplace@gmail.com Social Media: X (@CaitrATC) Instagram (@caitraid) Production CreditsThis podcast is a production of Action Medicine Consultants, LLC.

    44 min
  9. 11/05/2024

    Preventing Exertional Heat Illnesses in Sports: Expert Insights from Dr. Rod Walters, DA, ATC

    **CEU Credit Available**  Visit www.CEUnleashed.com to earn CEU credit for this course PLUS 50+ Sports Emergency Care Courses. Annual subscription $4.99/year for ALL courses! Episode Summary: In this episode of the AT Pit Crew Podcast, host Ray Castle interviews Dr. Rod Walters, an expert in sports medicine and athletic training, to explore the crucial topic of preventing exertional heat illnesses in sports. Dr. Walters shares his extensive knowledge on the development of heat illness management, the importance of emergency action plans, and preventive measures vital to keeping athletes safe. Together, they delve into common misconceptions, the different protocols required at various levels of competition, and key insights learned from high-profile cases. Dr. Walters emphasizes the importance of rapid recognition and immediate treatment of heat-related issues, alongside the need for athlete conditioning and acclimatization to minimize risk. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions, where Dr. Walters shares personal insights from his distinguished career. Key Takeaways: Evolution of Heat Illness Management: A look into how protocols have adapted over time. Emergency Action Plans (EAPs): Why EAPs are essential in heat illness prevention. Preventative Measures: Tips on conditioning, hydration, and acclimatization. Rapid Recognition and Treatment: The critical importance of quick identification and response. Common Misconceptions and Lessons Learned: Real-world examples from Dr. Walters' work with clients like the NFL and Cirque du Soleil. About the Guest: Dr. Rod Walters is a celebrated consultant and speaker in sports medicine. With over 27 years of experience in collegiate healthcare, Dr. Walters has presented more than 3,000 times, authored notable works, and advised high-profile organizations such as Major League Baseball and the Big 12 Conference. An NATA Hall of Fame member, he is widely respected for his contributions to sports medicine, with expertise spanning from heat illness prevention to concussion management. Connect with Dr. Rod Walters: Website: rodwalters.com Email: rod@rodwalters.com Follow Action Medicine Consultants: Website: actionmed.co Facebook: facebook.com/ActionMedCo Instagram: instagram.com/ActionMedCo X (formerly Twitter): twitter.com/ActionMedCo TikTok: tiktok.com/@ActionMedCo YouTube: youtube.com/@ActionMedCo LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/actionmedco Production CreditsThis podcast is a production of Action Medicine Consultants, LLC.

    33 min

About

Hosted by Ray Castle, an athletic trainer and EMT with 30+ years of experience, The AT Pit Crew Podcast covers sports emergency care topics with expert guests, including athletic trainers, physicians, EMS, and athletes. The show focuses on the "Pitcrew" approach to emergency care—a team-based, coordinated response to on-field emergencies. Each episode explores hot topics, real-world experiences, and best practices to improve emergency response in sports settings. Tune in for expert insights and practical tips to elevate your care.

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