The Lifeguard Project

Drasko Bogdanovic
  • 5.0 (13)
  • DOCUMENTARY
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Presented by the Ben Carlson Foundation: The Lifeguard Project discusses a serious rescue profession which is often misrepresented. It aims to educate and inspire through showcasing innately captivating experiences of lifeguards which invoke a unique awareness of life. You dont have to be a lifegaurd to enjoy these conversations which are aimed at inspiring future generations, improving the perception of lifeguarding, and facilitating perspective for the better. Any conversation is on the table which involves stories of rescues, education, inspiration, drowning prevention, lifeguarding and the broader water community. Host Drasko Bogdanovic has been a beach Lifeguard since 2010 throughout California, Lifeguard Instructor, Paramedic, and teaches EMT and Paramedic courses. The Lifeguard Project Podcast is connected to the broader documentary project where you can see photos and videos of these subjects as never seen before. Find out more: thelifeguardproject.org

  1. 12/23/2025

    | Ep.19 | Don Lester: Inside the World of Swift Water Rescue

    Don Lester is a veteran swift water and technical rescue professional with extensive field experience across firefighting, emergency medical response, and advanced rescue instruction. Over the course of his career, Don logged more than 150 days per season on the water and served as both a Swift Water Rescue instructor and a Rescue 3 International instructor trainer. Known for his thoughtful and disciplined approach, Don emphasizes continuous learning and risk awareness in dynamic water environments. This episode is essential listening for lifeguards, firefighters, river professionals, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of water rescue safety. 00:00 Introduction 00:08 Meet Don Lester: Swiftwater, Technical Rescue Expert 00:53 A Day on the American River 01:10 Don's Early Life and Rafting Beginnings 01:40 Innovations in Rafting and Early Adventures 06:31 Guiding and Professional Development 08:12 Pioneering Whitewater and Rescue Techniques 19:59 Teaching Philosophy and Influences 29:02 Lifeguard Training and Swift Water Rescue 36:00 Throw Bag Rescue Techniques 36:52 Mindset Differences: Lifeguards vs. Firefighters 38:09 Balancing Planning and Action in Rescues 40:21 A Real-Life Rescue Story 46:20 The Importance of Training and Experience 54:40 Creating Effective Rescue Teams 01:13:31 The Evolution of Emergency Medicine 01:14:26 Learning from Real-World Experiences 01:15:42 Challenges and Adaptations in Rescue Training 01:17:46 The Complexities of Tsunami and Flood Rescues 01:23:55 Mental Health in Rescue Work 01:27:15 The Importance of Practice and Preparedness 01:35:49 Old Growth Rescue: A New Initiative 01:38:57 Final Thoughts Read More About Don Here: https://oldgrowthrescue.com/ Presented by The Ben Carlson Foundation: https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/ https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/ Subscribe to the Podcast Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682 https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54t https://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/ https://thelifeguardproject.org/ Host, Drasko Bogdanovic: https://www.bogdogphoto.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/ #SwiftWaterRescue #LifeguardPodcast #FirstResponderTraining #TheLifeguardProjectPodcast #BenCarlsonFoundation #WaterRescue #RiverRescue #LifeguardLife #FirstResponders #FirefighterTraining #EMTLife #TechnicalRescue #RescueTraining #RiverGuide #FloodRescue #WaterSafety #SearchAndRescue #EmergencyResponse #RescueMindset #OceanSafety Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

    1h 44m

  2. 12/14/2025

    | S.5 | Expression Session: Inspiring Epilogue from "Stories from Sea Level" by Ed Vodrazka

    Lifeguard Legend Ed Vodrazka (Eddie V) recites the inspirational epilogue from his book - Stories from Sea Level. This book is a hand-picked assemblage of truly exceptional ocean-related events which occurred within the 50-year span between 1969 and 2019. The lifeguards featured in these stories work for various agencies between San Diego and the Sonoma Coast. Of note, the lifeguards themselves provided the author with the details and specifics necessary to accurately immortalize their remarkable and dramatic events. This collection of their accounts are offered by the author as a sincere homage to all lifeguards (past, present, and future) who diligently patrol the California coastline ensuring the safety of the general public. Find it here: https://a.co/d/7tqoWyR Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

    7 min

  3. 11/11/2025

    | Ep.18 | Greg Bonann: Producer of Baywatch

    Welcome to a very special episode on the Lifeguard Project podcast. Today, we get to sit down with Greg Bonann, the creator and producer of Baywatch. At its peak, Baywatch became the most-watched television show in the world, airing in over 140 countries and reaching more than a billion viewers each week. Today, Greg shares his journey from his early start as a kid facing challenges to his first rescues as an LA County lifeguard. Moments that shaped his purpose long before Hollywood came calling. And now 30 years later, Baywatch is returning in 2026 with Greg once again leading the charge, bringing in a new vision, while staying true to the show's roots of courage, community, and rescue. 00:00 Introduction to Greg Bonann and Baywatch 01:13 Greg's Early Life and Challenges 04:04 High School Swimming and Lifeguarding Beginnings 09:13 Mentorship and Lifeguard Training 21:18 The Lifeguard Brotherhood and Early Experiences 28:30 The Birth of a Storyteller 31:51 The Rescue That Sparked Baywatch 42:32 A Desperate Rescue 43:04 The Struggle to Save a Life 45:10 A Happy Ending and Reflections 46:18 The Frustration of Storytelling 46:52 Baywatch's Early Challenges 48:18 The Lifeguard's Journey 51:40 Junior Lifeguard Program 59:03 The Road to Red 01:06:27 The Importance of Mentorship 01:10:29 Baywatch's Global Impact 01:23:21 Pam's Underwater Training 01:23:53 Lifeguard Training and Challenges 01:25:06 Baywatch's Impact and Recognition 01:27:22 Authenticity in Lifeguard Representation 01:30:37 Challenges in TV Production 01:33:50 Baywatch's Legacy and Future 01:45:46 Personal Reflections and Future Goals Read More About Greg Here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregory_J._Bonann Presented by The Ben Carlson Foundation: https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/ https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/ Subscribe to the Podcast Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682 https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54t https://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/ https://thelifeguardproject.org/ Host, Drasko Bogdanovic: https://www.bogdogphoto.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

    1h 57m

  4. 10/15/2025

    | Ep.17 | Steve Long: Life, Leadership, and a Career in Lifeguarding

    Today I interview Steve Long. Steve was a California State Parks lifeguard, and maybe the only lifeguard who never passed lifeguard training yet was chosen by leadership to Excel and fast track into leadership roles throughout his career. Steve worked in the golden age of lifeguarding in California and ended up as a supervising peace officer for California State Parks in the San Clemente area. Steve and I discuss, not just lifeguarding, but some of his personal philosophy on life and much, much more as always. 00:00 Introduction to Steve Long's Lifeguard Journey 01:18 Early Life and Passion for Swimming 04:09 College Years and Military Aspirations 08:31 The Decision to Pursue Lifeguarding 12:55 First Encounters with State Lifeguard Training 17:51 Becoming a Permanent Lifeguard 23:16 Fast-Tracking Through Lifeguard Roles 27:01 Memorable Experiences and Challenges 36:08 A Lifeguard's First Experience with Death 37:07 Rapid Career Advancement 40:04 Challenges and Tensions on the Beach 41:43 Becoming a Lifeguard Supervisor 46:23 Navigating Interjurisdictional Operations 51:35 Raising a Family in the Park 55:32 Returning to Lifeguarding 59:44 The Unique Role of Lifeguards 01:04:47 Balancing Work and Family 01:10:39 Encouraging the Next Generation 01:14:54 Rusty's Journey in Surfing and Career 01:15:34 Impact of Lifeguarding on Family and Career 01:16:34 Lifeguarding as a Metaphor for Life 01:18:34 The High Calling of Lifeguarding 01:21:30 Greg's Big Wave Incident 01:27:48 The Evolution of Lifeguarding Profession 01:28:46 The LA County Lifeguard Walkout 01:36:22 Advice for Future Lifeguards 01:42:29 Preserving San Onofre and Environmental Stewardship 01:48:32 Final Thoughts Link To The San Onofre Parks Foundation: https://sanoparks.org Presented by The Ben Carlson Foundation: https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/ https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/ Subscribe to the Podcast Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682 https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54t https://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/ https://thelifeguardproject.org/ Host, Drasko Bogdanovic: https://www.bogdogphoto.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

    2h 11m

  5. 09/20/2025

    | R.1 | Rescue Testimonial | Caught in a Rip Current : Manhattan Beach, CA

    This Rescue Testimonial from Emily Eisenberg explains how she got into trouble and finally rescued from a rip current in Manhattan Beach in Los Angeles County on September 20th, 2020. Emily has a swimming background and very knowledgable about contacting lifeguards and approaching the beach safely. This day when there was less staffing, she found herself taking a dip and getting caught in a rip current with her friend. She expresses her feelings of shame and nervousness to ask for help from a surfer, and also how it was difficult to express to her friends what had happened. Emily's perspective is very insightful to lifeguards how a "standard" rip current rescue is not standard. There is an entirely different perspective that victims have as they go through the process of struggling in the water and becoming worried for their safety. There are also answers afterwards that do not get spoken about, along with many other details. Not all rescues are the same, victims and rescuers can all learn from this perspective. Have a story of your own? Please share! Thanks as always for listening! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

    23 min

  6. 09/10/2025

    | S.4 | Expression Session: "Red Isn't Armor" by: Drasko Bogdanovic

    Red Isn't Armor is an article by Podcast host Drasko Bogdanovic published in Wilderness Medicine Magazine regarding the misunderstood nature of lifeguarding, mental health, and drowning. You can find the article online to reference some of the photos included. https://wms.org/magazine/magazine/1574/Red-Isn-t-Armor/default.aspx Drasko Bogdanovic is a California State Parks Ocean Lifeguard, Flight Paramedic, and photographer with a focus in prehospital care, aquatic rescue, and drowning prevention. With extensive experience in lifeguarding, EMS, and education, he has trained lifeguards, EMTs, paramedics, and law enforcement officers across California and internationally. As founder of The Lifeguard Project, he uses storytelling through imagery and a podcast to connect field experience with public health education. His work explores the intersection of lifesaving, community engagement, and the often misunderstood nature of drowning. Thanks as always for listening! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

    9 min

  7. 09/09/2025

    | Ep.16 | John Carpenter: 100 years of Newport Beach Lifeguard History

    Welcome to this episode of the Lifeguard Project Podcast, where I interview Newport Beach, lifeguard John Carpenter. John started as a YAP or Youth Employment Program in 1969 and has served with the Newport Beach Lifeguard Service for 50 years, from 1970 to 2020. During his time, he had certain accolades like training instructor for the Rookie Training Academy Lifeguard of the Year in 1985. Cadet program coordinator, all American swimmer at Costa Mesa High School in 1971, Orange Coast College National Champion in water polo in 1972, and has been a biology teacher for 40 years as well as a water polo and swim coach at Estancia High School. John and I get into some really interesting facts about the inception of the lifeguard service in Newport Beach when I watched him do his centennial presentation of the a hundred year anniversary of the Newport Beach. Lifeguards, John and I go through the entire history as well as some of his own personal stories. I hope you enjoy this episode, and thanks as always for listening.  00:00 Introduction to John Carpenter and His Lifeguard Career 01:02 John's Early Lifeguard Experiences and Inspirations 02:58 The Humbling First Tryout 04:37 Overcoming Challenges and Proving Himself 11:08 The Evolution of the YEP Program 14:11 History of Newport Beach Lifeguard Service 25:14 Early Lifeguard Training and Equipment Innovations 33:57 Mechanization and Modernization of Lifeguard Services 43:13 Essential Gear for Jetty Rescues 43:59 Navigating Dangerous Rock Areas 44:27 Challenges of Lifeguarding Near Rocks 46:11 Modern Lifeguard Training and Techniques 47:19 Historical Lifeguard Innovations 49:32 Helicopter Rescues and Training 57:30 Early Lifeguarding Days and Equipment 01:03:56 Surfboard Licenses and Blackball Flags 01:12:31 Project Wipe Out and Preventative Measures 01:22:30 A Close Call and a Successful Rescue 01:22:56 The Importance of Beach Education 01:23:51 A Frightening Encounter with Negligent Parents 01:25:55 The Dangers of Sand Entrapment 01:27:00 A Lifeguard's Lifelong Vigilance 01:34:00 Reflecting on a Lifeguard Career 01:38:53 The Legacy of Lifeguarding 01:51:33 Advice for New Guards Link To John's Powerpoint: https://1drv.ms/p/c/2e013de102312bc0/ETs8_kjKnaZIvNHhGHmFv2IBpAcsXO7Z58nHd6be630Bqw?e=dsRP7b Presented by The Ben Carlson Foundation: https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/ https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/ Subscribe to the Podcast Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682 https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54t https://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/ https://thelifeguardproject.org/ Host, Drasko Bogdanovic: https://www.bogdogphoto.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

    1h 60m

  8. 08/28/2025

    | Ep.15 | Mike Martino: Pioneers of the Sonoma Coast

    Welcome to this episode of The Lifeguard Project Podcast, where today I interview Mike Martino. Mike is a California State Parks lifeguard who started as a seasonal and throughout his career, worked his way up all the way to the aquatic specialist or chief lifeguard of California State Parks. Not only is he a lifeguard for life, but he also has become quite a lifeguard historian and represent some of the early lifeguard pioneers who made their way up in the Sonoma coastline in the north of California. The Sonoma coastline is what we focus on today and talk about some of those early challenges faced by the guards who worked up there. Mike shares with us some pretty impactful stories, both personal and professional, and we walk through what it really means to be a lifeguard. Thanks as always for listening. 00:00 Welcome to The Lifeguard Project Podcast 01:25 Mike Martino's Path to Lifeguarding 04:04 First Impressions of the Sonoma Coastline 06:05 Challenges and Responsibilities of Lifeguarding the Sonoma Coast 09:56 Community Perception and Lifeguard Interactions 15:23 The Reality of Lifeguard Work and Prevention 25:40 Abalone Diving and Lifeguard Experiences 31:00 Critical Rescues and Lifeguard Reflections 42:26 The Unseen Skills of Lifeguards 43:11 The Edge of Life and Death 45:27 Northern vs. Southern California Lifeguarding 48:06 The Challenges of Lifeguarding in Remote Areas 49:27 The Importance of Physical Activity in Managing Trauma 50:20 The Evolution of Lifeguard Support Programs 56:10 The Impact of Junior Lifeguard Programs 01:00:56 The Value of Lifeguard Services 01:06:37 The Lifeguard Community and Legacy 01:21:13 Final Thoughts Links to Mike's Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Lifeguards-Diego-County-Images-America/dp/073855586X/ref=sr_1_4 https://www.amazon.com/Help-San-Diego-Lifeguards-Rescue/dp/1941384390/ref=sr_1_3 Presented by The Ben Carlson Foundation: https://www.bencarlsonfoundation.org/ https://www.instagram.com/bencarlson_foundation/ Subscribe to the Podcast Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lifeguard-project/id1748861682 https://open.spotify.com/show/7EoZTDiET6jJ6XJ1g5X54t https://www.instagram.com/thelifeguardproject/ https://thelifeguardproject.org/ Host, Drasko Bogdanovic: https://www.bogdogphoto.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bogdogphoto/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-lifeguard-project/donations

    1h 22m
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Trailer

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out of 5
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About

Presented by the Ben Carlson Foundation: The Lifeguard Project discusses a serious rescue profession which is often misrepresented. It aims to educate and inspire through showcasing innately captivating experiences of lifeguards which invoke a unique awareness of life. You dont have to be a lifegaurd to enjoy these conversations which are aimed at inspiring future generations, improving the perception of lifeguarding, and facilitating perspective for the better. Any conversation is on the table which involves stories of rescues, education, inspiration, drowning prevention, lifeguarding and the broader water community. Host Drasko Bogdanovic has been a beach Lifeguard since 2010 throughout California, Lifeguard Instructor, Paramedic, and teaches EMT and Paramedic courses. The Lifeguard Project Podcast is connected to the broader documentary project where you can see photos and videos of these subjects as never seen before. Find out more: thelifeguardproject.org

Information

  • Creator
    Drasko Bogdanovic
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Lifeguard Project

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