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‘Culture eats strategy’: Rebuilding an EMS system from the ground up

May 8, 2026 · 29 min

Show notes

In this episode of the Inside EMS podcast, host Chris Cebollero shares why he left the consulting and community paramedicine world to become chief of EMS and COO for EMS Team in Dayton, Ohio — a growing multi-state agency with “visions of world dominance.”

The conversation digs deep into servant leadership, workforce buy-in and the balance between supporting crews while still holding the line on professionalism and performance. Chris also lays out his vision for creating a sustainable culture built on accountability, engagement and shared ownership.

It’s equal parts leadership seminar, war story and reality check for anyone who’s ever tried to fix a fractured EMS system.

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