#431 The Psychology of Rescue with Dr Lynsey Mahmood PhD

In this episode, Pete sits down with Dr Lynsey Mahmood, PhD, a behavioural scientist and applied psychologist whose work bridges academic research and real world fire and rescue operations. The conversation explores how psychology shows up on the fireground every day, whether we acknowledge it or not. From watch culture and social identity to leadership, behaviour change, and organisational blind spots, Lynsey explains why who we are, how we belong, and what we value shape the way we act under pressure. Together they unpack why evidence based practice can struggle to gain traction in operational environments, and how biases like sunk cost and confirmation bias quietly influence decision making across the service.

A central focus of the episode is the Psychology of Rescue project, which examines rescue from the casualty’s perspective rather than purely through technical or procedural success. Lynsey challenges listeners to consider the psychological impact of extrication, questioning whether well intentioned rescue practices may unintentionally add to trauma. The discussion highlights the importance of casualty centred communication, interdisciplinary research, and training that considers psychological safety alongside physical outcomes. This is a thoughtful, challenging conversation about leadership, identity, and professional curiosity, and why understanding human behaviour is essential to the future effectiveness and credibility of the fire service.

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