Within the Trenches

Ep. 669 features a LIVE broadcast from the 2026 NC PSAP Manager's Conference. Episode topics – Real-life stories from dispatchers and center managers about entering and growing in 911 careers The importance of resilience, support systems, and coping mechanisms in emergency communications Advancements in Next Generation 911 technology and statewide disaster response strategies Generational impacts, career motivation, and memorable calls in the dispatch profession Recruitment advice and resources for those considering a career as a 911 telecommunicator in North Carolina If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 668 features a solo episode in celebration of a Decade of Voices, the tenth anniversary of the #IAM911 movement. Episode topics – The 10-year anniversary and global reach of the #IAM911 movement The origins and impact of sharing dispatcher stories Introduction of imaginelistening.com as a living archive for stories The launch of the Gary Allen Legacy Collection preserving historical 911 audio Exclusive teasers and announcements about the future of Imagine Listening If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 667 features Jen, a Dispatch Coordinator with Cass County Sheriff's Department, MI. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Jen's early influences and journey into public safety dispatching Evolution of technology and the dispatch center, from dot matrix printers to gaming monitors Handling critical and emotionally challenging calls and their long-term impact The importance of mentorship, humility, and celebrating wins in the dispatch center Navigating retirement, identity, and mental health in a demanding 911 career If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 666 features a solo episode where we visit an archive of past 911 calls. This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS Episode topics – The origins of Within the Trenches and how the podcast was launched Breakdown and discussion of a disturbing family homicide 911 call Analyzing a deceptive 911 call where the caller is later revealed as the suspect The tension and fear of live home invasion calls and how dispatchers guide callers through them The critical importance of dispatcher intuition in situations where callers cannot speak freely If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 665 features Jami, a 911 professional and peer support specialist at Lee Summit Fire, Missouri. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Why Jami originally planned to become a firefighter and chose to stay in dispatch The pivotal call that changed her career path and her advice on coping with tough calls How peer support has evolved in the industry and why it matters Memorable calls from the tragic to the unexpectedly funny How sharing stories helps both new and experienced dispatchers handle the stresses of the job If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 664 features a discussion from round 46 of the Dispatcher's Roundtable on Zero Suicide Kits, red flags, and much more with guest, Dawn Shumway. Episode topics – Practical tips for real suicide prevention and "zero suicide proofing" your support network The true look of struggle: why "happy" coworkers may actually be drowning Taking imperfect action: why showing up beats waiting for perfect plans Building hope with simple acts—from freezer meals to eight-minute lifelines Creating agency cultures where vulnerable conversations and support are normalized If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 663 features a solo episode where I revisit and celebrate the 13 year anniversary of my last day at Allegan County Central Dispatch in Michigan. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Ricardo recounts leaving his dispatch career after 13 years and what led to that decision Highlights from early podcasting days, including memorable conferences and media appearances The significance of sharing dispatch stories for support, inspiration, and therapy A detailed recap of his last 16-hour shift, final radio transmission, and emotional goodbyes Reflections on the legacy, growth, and impact made through the Within the Trenches podcast and the #IAM911 movement If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 662 features Erica, a peer support specialist and CTO with Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority, MI. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Erica's journey from the ER to a 13-year dispatch career Training philosophy: building trust, sharing mistakes, and modernizing the culture Public education efforts and common 9-1-1 misconceptions Burnout, boundaries, and the decision to reclaim personal well-being The shift toward hope, teamwork, and why this profession is still worth saving If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 661 features a panel discussion from a recent Public Safety Showcase virtual event entitled, "Dispatcher Suicide: Breaking the Silence." Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Why dispatcher suicide remains a taboo topic in public safety What struggle really looks like among dispatchers Why it's easier for dispatchers to help others than themselves Practical mental health resources and what truly helps How agencies and coworkers navigate the aftermath and support survivors If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 660 features a panel discussion from a recent Public Safety Showcase virtual event covering AI Tech and mental health for 911 professionals. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The real impact of AI on dispatcher cognitive load and stress management Why wellness apps often fall short for frontline public safety professionals Balancing public perception and internal stigma about AI use in 911 centers The critical role of vendor-agency collaboration in effective tech adoption Big-picture ideas for the future of AI-driven wellness and support in emergency communications If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 659 features Donna, a 911 professional out of Texas. In this episode, we have a candid conversation on suicide in 911 dispatch. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The unseen trauma and emotional burdens shouldered by dispatchers Why dispatcher suicides remain under-recognized and rarely discussed What "struggle" actually looks like in the life of a dispatcher The barriers and stigma around seeking help in this field Practical tools, peer support, and what really works to cope and heal If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 658 is a solo episode where I discuss the top three things that I had to explain to friends, family, and callers about 911. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The truth about tracing 911 calls and caller location technology Why dispatchers ask so many questions during emergencies The realities of putting callers on hold and response times The misconception that dispatchers "just sit and answer phones" Staffing shortages, burnout, and what really goes on behind the scenes If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 657 features Cheyenne, a 911 professional out of Kansas. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Transitioning from firefighter to dispatcher and early career hurdles The evolution of public safety technology and dispatch procedures Navigating gender barriers and proving oneself in a male-dominated field Memorable and unusual 911 calls, including tips for effective communication Launching a book series based on true stories from the front lines If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 656 features an Open Mic LIVE solo episode. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Highlights and behind-the-scenes from the recent Michigan Public Safety Telecommunications Conference The origin and growth of the Within the Trenches podcast and the #IAM911 Movement Using games and creative engagement in conference vendor halls The significance of peer support, mental health, and communication in the dispatch community The ongoing fight for recognition, reclassification, and positive culture change in 911 centers If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 655 features Mel, a 911 professional out of a regional agency in Missouri. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The significance and traditions of National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week Memorable moments and challenges in dispatcher training and early career experiences Handling emotionally impactful calls and the importance of support and mental health Evolution of 911 technology over the past 23 years and its real-world impacts Insights on work-life balance, boundaries, and advice for new and seasoned dispatchers If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 654 features a candid discussion on the question, "have you ever gotten so used to the chaos that silence feels uncomfortable?" with my guest, Keely. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The struggle to find comfort in silence after years of constant noise How triggers and overstimulation from dispatch can follow you into daily life The importance of finding new coping mechanisms and routines post-dispatch Managing feelings of isolation, anxiety, and secondary trauma The ongoing need for conversation, support, and mental health awareness in public safety If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 653 features Nadine, a 911 professional with Seabrook PD, in Texas. Episode topics – How Nadine accidentally started her public safety career after moving from New York to Texas Surprises and challenges faced on the first days as a dispatcher The realities of dispatcher training, including tough early calls and adapting to new environments The impact of critical incidents, coping with tough calls, and the value of taking time to process trauma Why mentorship and sharing experiences matter in building strong dispatcher teams If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 652 features a Series Finale of the Most Important Seconds broadcast. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Recap of the season and connection to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh The challenges and realities of technology outages in emergency departments and dispatch Bridging the gap: importance of analog skills and cross-generational teamwork Candid discussions about mental health and self-care for first responders and medical staff Reflections on integrated safety networks and the future of emergency communication systems If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 651 features a Most Important Seconds broadcast. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Behind-the-scenes look at National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week and its significance Firsthand stories and humor from emergency response professionals on high-intensity nights like the 4th of July The impact of technology (and tech failures) in dispatch and the ER, and how critical information flows in emergencies Insights on teamwork, burnout, and the importance of supporting each other in high-stress professions Real talk about mental health, sharing experiences, and finding balance in the world of public safety If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .

Episode 650 features a LIVE podcast episode with guest, Keely, as we chat about National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Recognizing the vital role of 911 professionals during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week Firsthand stories and the power of sharing personal experiences in public safety Behind-the-scenes look at center celebrations, creativity, and dispatch center culture A memorable, unexpected 911 call story that keeps everyone guessing Community giveaways, leadership training opportunities, and industry thank-yous from special guests If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com .