The Brad Gantt Debrief

Ep. 8 Jim Bloodworth, Sr.

Jim Bloodworth Sr has dedicated 45 years of his life to public safety around this Columbus area. Starting in 1978, until his retirement in 2023, he has done nearly everything one can do from firefighting, ems, flight paramedic, rescue, instructing, training and developing paramedic programs. He is a man with a genuine broad wealth of experience dating back to the infancy of EMS in Georgia. He is the first guest I’ve had so far that I have not met personally and I was excited to learn about him at the same time you will be watching this episode. Though this episode is over 3hrs long, it’s very clear that I only scratched the surface and we could go on a long time talking about his experiences. His enthusiasm for the profession and love of the job still is very palpable. I’m truly honored to have had him come sit down with me and I have no doubt that I need to have him come back again in the future. Join me in welcoming Mr. Jim Bloodworth Sr.

Ep. 7 Wesley Wells

Wesley Wells is a retired fire captain and EMT who I greatly respect. He worked over 33 years at Albany Fire Department where he retired at the rank of Captain. He also spent over 10 years at Lee County Public Safety where he served in many roles including 2 years as Public Safety Director. Wesley is a man who was committed to the job and doing the right thing for the right reasons. When I think of people who have a steadfast moral compass, Wesley is one of them. A very knowledgeable individual, firefighter and leader who will hold you to a high standard but none higher than he holds himself. Wesley is a second generation firefighter as he followed in his father’s footsteps who served before him first a firefighter and who also became an EMT later in his career, the same as Wesley. I enjoyed a great conversation with him and honored he could join me. Sadly, I overlooked that his camera did not start recording and the audio was the only thing I captured. Keep an eye out for part 2 as I will have him in the studio again to finish discussing more on his career and background.

Ep. 6 Ricky Thompson

Ricky Thompson is a person who defines the phrase “quiet professional”. Ricky has spent 20+ years as a firefighter and currently serves as a Battalion Chief at Albany Fire Department. He’s a person who most would consider to be a calm point of reference at a station or department. A very knowledgeable person who always seems to be in good control of himself and the situation he’s facing. No matter the obstacle placed in his way, on the job or off, he’s a person to accomplish it with a quiet resilience. Glad to have Ricky in the studio to talk about life, family, the job and faith in Jesus.

Ep. 5 Steve Ebel

Steve Ebel is paramedic who has dedicated his life to serving the public he cares for and the students he has taught. Steve started his public safety career in 1985 as a police officer and quickly transitioned into EMS. Steve has nearly 40 years in EMS and over 30 years as an instructor. Steve is deeply loved and greatly respected for dedication to the job, dedication to teaching an unwavering commitment to speak up for what he believes is right.

Ep. 4 Tripp Riddle

Joined in the studio by Tripp Riddle. Tripp has been a paramedic for 22 years in Georgia. He worked on the ground for many years but also spent many years working as a flight paramedic. Currently he is the director of a local county based EMS service and has advance his department greatly by incorporating body camera for his crews and increasing the available units for the citizens he serves. Tripp brings a wealth of knowledge to the show and shared some of his experiences/advice he has picked up along the way.