In this episode, we continue our deep dive into decision-making under pressure with Olly Sapsford, a Firefighter and Commander as well as a Lecturer in Disaster & Emergency Management at Coventry University.

We explore the mental models, training, and strategies that support effective decision-making in extreme environments. How do emergency responders manage stress, maintain clarity, and strike the right balance between experience and instinct?

Olly shares insights into leadership, teamwork, and the ethical dilemmas professionals face in high-stakes situations. From navigating risk and resource limitations to post-incident reflection, we examine how decision-making frameworks from firefighting can be applied in paramedicine—and vice versa.

With a research focus on human factors, socio-cognitive influences, and fast decision-making, Olly sheds light on the role of intuition and expertise in high-pressure environments. Drawing from his talk at the College of Paramedics Emergency and Critical Care Conference, titled ‘From the Fireground: Demystifying Extreme Decision Making for Emergency Responders’, Olly brings a fresh perspective on how responders can refine their approach to critical decision-making when every second counts.

Join us as we unpack the strategies that can make the difference between a good decision and a great one in emergency settings.

This podcast is sponsored by PAX.

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