In this episode of Let’s Talk Dispatch, we sit down with Heather Williams, a licensed psychologist and founder of Premier First Responder Psychological Services.

With over 25 years of experience working in law enforcement and public safety, Heather has dedicated her life to improving the mental health and wellness of first responders.

From building peer support programs to providing critical incident response and wellness training, Heather shares her insights on how to create a culture of resilience within public safety.

Whether you’re a dispatcher, officer, or leader in public safety, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on navigating stress, trauma, and recovery.

Connect with Heather here :

IG: heather_premier1stresponder

website: premier1stresponder.com

In this episode of Let’s Talk Dispatch, I’m joined by AK Dozanti, a former deputy sheriff turned First Responder Burnout Specialist and founder of Life Saver Wellness.

AK shares her journey from law enforcement to burnout prevention, offering actionable insights on recognizing, preventing, and recovering from burnout in emergency services.

With her relatable approach and deep understanding of the challenges first responders face, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone in the field.

Instagram: akdozanti

Facebook: Life Saver Academy with AK Dozanti

Tiktok: akdozanti

LinkedIn: AK Dozanti, MA

Oh and did we mention AK has a new book!

Check out Beat the Burnout Here

In this episode of Let's Talk Dispatch, we’re joined by Jason Barto, a dedicated Peer Supporter and founder of The Paths of the Warriors. With a rich background in emergency services, Jason has served as a Ski Patroller, Firefighter, HAZMAT Specialist, and a member of Utah Task Force One. He shares his journey through some of his most critical incidents and how personal traumas have shaped his commitment to supporting First Responders.Jason sheds light on the challenges many First Responders ...

Last week Michigan State University was another institution added to the list of schools that have experienced a shooting. As a youth, I vividly remember the columbine school shooting and how it felt so foreign; now, school shootings are something children are trained to react to.As an adult and now a dispatcher, I have sat through active shooter training, been prepped on my department’s procedures, and taken phone calls reporting potential threats. The dispatcher who handled the in...

This week I am joined by Angela Johnson. Angela has over 18 years of experience in the dispatch field, working at many levels, from a supervisor, CIT trainer, and peer support member. She is now a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Ph.D. candidate whose dissertation study focuses on 911 dispatchers and compassion fatigue. We looked deeply at compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction, and self-care! To connect with Angela shoot her a email at a11johnso@odu.eduMake ...

From farm girl to soldier to 911 professional. This week I am joined by Eda Beams and her wealth of knowledge from working in this field and her love for the technology that is moving this industry forward. Eda speaks on her experience in the field, her current role with Motorola, and life after dispatch. You can connect with Eda via |Facebook: facebook.com/eda.beamsLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/eda-beams/Make Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Me...

This week's episode features former NYPD Captain Christian Gulotta. Before retiring, Christian led the department's Radio communication division at New York City 911. That experience motivated Christian to continue to impact and support dispatchers after leaving the communication center. Ten-4 Consulting, Christian's company, is committed to helping agencies improve 911 staffing levels, employee and management performance, and overall public experience with departments. You...

This week I am joined by 911 Dispatcher and Amazon Best Selling Author Phillip Tomasso. We talk about their dispatcher career, and their newest book Nothing Good Happens After Midnight: Confessions of a 911 dispatcher. Search Nothing Good Happens After Midnight on Amazon to purchase a copy, or follow this link! Purchase Here!Make Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Media xybix.com/mediaThank you for listening to Let's Talk Dispatch! Don't forget to subscri...

I love connecting with dispatchers, and I also love volunteering my dispatch friends to come onto the show with me. In this week's episode, I am joined by current dispatcher Caity, a former coworker, and friend. We talk about our experience working at a larger agency, how we handle tough calls, and one of the most complex parts of the job, waiting for help to arrive. Make Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Media xybix.com/mediaThank you for listening...

On this Week's episode, I got a two-for-one special with San Jose Police Departments Tonia Riles and Laura Lopez. They talk to me about their department and the culture they are building, their experience over the years, collateral opportunities offered through their department, and so much more!If you are interested in a career in dispatching and are in the bay area, check out their department because they are hiring! https://www.sjpdyou.com/for-applicants/applicant-positions/other-care...

In this Week's Episode on Let's Talk Dispatch, I am joined by @helpfortheheadset Shannon Polito. We have an excellent discussion about her journey and her company, Help for the Headset. ⁠⁠Make sure to give her a follow on Instagram at | @helpfortheheadset⁠⁠Make Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Media xybix.com/mediaThank you for listening to Let's Talk Dispatch! Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5 Star Review!Follow Us on Social Media Instagram...

Every day I get to save lives, a gentle reminder from my guest's husband regarding the work we do answering 911. This episode was so refreshing chatting with Gudrun who has over 20 years of experience and is still thriving in this line of work. Make Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Media xybix.com/mediaThank you for listening to Let's Talk Dispatch! Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5 Star Review!Follow Us on Social Media Instagram | Follow Her...

This week I am joined by Casey Rives, who has entered the private sector after spending many years in dispatch. Casey shares her experience as a dispatcher, their journey into the private sector, and the importance of having someone to talk to about the calls we hear in this line of work, even the ones you don't think are weighing on you. Make Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Media xybix.com/mediaThank you for listening to Let's Talk Dispatch! Don'...

In this episode of Let's Talk Dispatch, we chat with a newly promoted Fire Communications Supervisor who has been dispatching for five years. Josh Miller shares their journey from Fire Explorer to Reserve Firefighter, discuss the challenges of burnout, and explain how humor and creativity have helped them stay grounded in high-stress situations. Discover how their viral Dispatch It videos and CalAPCO presentation inspire others to handle the weight of the job with laughter and humanity....

In this week's episode of Let's Talk Dispatch, I was joined by a familiar name and face in the dispatch world, Jim Marshall, Co-Founder of 911 Training Institute. Jim and I talked about anything and everything you can think of and answered some questions submitted by you folks listening. This is one you won't want to miss.Connect with Jim at | Info@911training.nethttps://www.911training.netMake Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Media xybix.com...

Join me as I chat with Ivan Whitaker of MD Ally. Ivan has years of experience in this field and has been speaking on issues regarding the world of 911 and numerous topics. We had a wonderful chat about their experience, burnout, and the services MD Ally is providing. Make Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Media xybix.com/mediaThank you for listening to Let's Talk Dispatch! Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5 Star Review!Follow Us on Social...

This week on Let's Talk Dispatch, we are discussing ergonomics and the importance of chairs in the dispatch center. Helping me with this discussion today is Joel Vento from Concept Seating. Join us as we discuss the focus on the reality of use in the dispatch center and learn how Concept Seating has partnered with the Denise Amberlee Foundation for the Golden Headset Award. Follow on Instagram | @conceptseatingVisit their Website | www.conceptseating.comCall Concept Seating | 800-892-556...

This week on Let's Talk Dispatch, we are discussing meal prepping to a better you! Angela Borges, the co-founder of The Healthy Diary, joins me to talk about her three-phrase meal prep framework, sharing her journey to a healthier self and tips and trips for the busy worker or folks who do not enjoy cooking!Follow Ang at @the_healthy_diary_Reach out by email | info@thehealthydiary.coVisit their Website | www.thehealthydiary.coMake Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand&...

This week on Let's Talk Dispatch, I am Joined by Theresa Carcioppolo.911 Dispatcher, reptile wrangler, and children's book author! Theresa has taken her passion for reptiles and 911 dispatching and created some wonderful resources and education opportunities for the community! Purchase Can I call 9-1-1 now? On amazon today! All proceeds benefit Theresas reptile rescue!check out www.Scaleyaddictions.comand follow her on IG and Tik Tok @scaleyaddictionsMake Sure to Visit our Partners ...

This week on Let's Talk Dispatch, I am joined by Francisco Lozada of the Memphis Police Department's Emergency Communications Bureau. We talk about advice for dispatchers for different phases of their careers and a tough early call. Make Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Media xybix.com/mediaThank you for listening to Let's Talk Dispatch! Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5 Star Review!Follow Us on Social Media Instagram | Follow Here! Facebook ...

This week on Let's Talk Dispatch, I am joined by Andrea King-Smith from Carbyne. Andrea is a former dispatcher for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department who has taken her years of experience as a dispatcher over to Carbyne as a Certified Customer Success Manager. In this role, she is helping this excellent company continue its mission of relentless innovation and connecting emergency services with modern technology.You can connect with Andrea and Carbyne at the links below:Find Andrea ...

This week on Let's Talk Dispatch, I am joined by the ENP Queen Kris Nichols! I gave her this title because she is passionate about continuing her education in 911 and helping entry levels succeed in her center!You can find Kris creating informative handouts to assist those (like me) chasing their ENP certifications and resources to help CTOs. Find Kris on Linkedin here | https://www.linkedin.com/in/krisn911/Make Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Med...

Amy Patin joins me on this week's episode of Let's Talk Dispatch. We talk all about empowering leaders in our centers and creating positive environments!Find More Resources at http://www.theraspydispatcher.comYoutube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIy_gcghvqif2_mRdTVXyQInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/theraspydispatcher/?utm_medium=copy_linkFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/theraspydispatcherMake Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix ...

Hannah reached out to me wanting to come onto the show after using my resources to get hired with a department, and after three weeks, she decided to exit from the training. We need to continue talking about how to improve the entry levels of experience from day one, so we can reduce turnover and decrease the dispatcher shortage. Find More Resources at http://www.theraspydispatcher.comYoutube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIy_gcghvqif2_mRdTVXyQInstagram | https://www.instagram.com...

In this episode, we’re joined by Jason Barbour, a 911 industry leader with over 30 years of experience, and Dave Warner, a retired law enforcement professional with 15 years at Priority Dispatch. Together, they tackle the growing challenge of police shortages, sharing how Priority Dispatch’s Police Priority Dispatch System (PPDS) and ProQA interface are helping agencies streamline call handling, integrate alternate responses, and reduce the burden on officers.Priority Dispatch Corporation is ...

On this week's episode of Let's Talk Dispatch, I am joined by Jennifer Prince. After 20 years of service, Jennifer retired, and only a year passed before she returned to dispatching with a new agency. Five months after she returned to dispatching, a 15-year-old boy opened fire at her home high school, and her former agency was one of the responding agencies. Jennifer and I discuss critical incidents, how to respond when our personal and professional lives collide, and supporting each other in...

Courtesy of California Chapter of NENAFor the past two years we have been working to promote the passage of workers compensation benefits to dispatchers for easier access to Post Traumatic Stress Injury treatment. We are pleased to report to you that the bill we have sponsored, SB 284 (Stern), has successfully been approved by the Legislature and is pending action from the Governor. He now has the option to either sign it into law, or veto it, before September 30th, 2022.SB 284 Letter o...

This week on Let's Talk Dispatch, I am joined by my academy mate Maylani Mcghee. We talk about our journey through the hiring process, trying to stay employed through the academy, and the job as a 911 dispatcher. Find More Resources at http://www.theraspydispatcher.com Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIy_gcghvqif2_mRdTVXyQ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/theraspydispatcher/?utm_medium=copy_link Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/theraspydispatcherMake Su...

In this week's episode, Edie Devilbiss (@ediedevilbiss) talks about checking in with our five gremlins and shaping good habits! Also, Edie is on Tik Tok ! and is trying to reach 1000 followers! Head over to Tik Tok and help her reach her goal!Check out the link in the bio for our latest episode and subscribe on apple podcast!Learn more by following Instagram: @ediedevilbissWebsite: shapegoodhabits.comTik Tok: Edie_devilbissMake Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911....

In this week's episode, I am joined by Roger Sutherland.Roger has spent a career in shift work. In actuality, it is a family affair!After experiencing a significant life event, Roger realized the importance of health and shift work, and a healthy shift was born!Where to connect with Roger !Instagram: @a_healthy_shiftWebsite: ahealthyshift.comPodcast: https://ahealthyshift.com/podcastMake Sure to Visit our Partners Prepared at Prepard911.comand Xybix Media xybix.com/mediaThank ...

Ashley Ahlquist joins me on today's episode of Let's Talk Dispatch! We had such a great conversation about dispatching, why they got into it, and how it has influenced the current role they are in as Yavapai County's Emergency Manager. Find More Resources at http://www.theraspydispatcher.com Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIy_gcghvqif2_mRdTVXyQ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/theraspydispatcher/?utm_medium=copy_link Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/theraspydispat...

Even though Ryan is a Lakers fan we connected on so many amazing topics regarding 911 Dispatching, their journey and their advice for aspiring dispatchers!Check out : https://www.911training.netFollow Ryan on Instagram @ryandedmon911 Find More Resources at http://www.theraspydispatcher.com Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIy_gcghvqif2_mRdTVXyQ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/theraspydispatcher/?utm_medium=copy_link Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/theraspydispatch...

Hello, 911? is the first thing out of a 911 dispatcher's mouth when answering emergency calls, and it's the first thing a caller pleads for when needing assistance. Today's Let's Talk Dispatch is with Dominique Mathis, Training Dispatch Supervisor out of Florida and Creator of an excellent company, Hello 911Check out their website at: https://www.hello-911.com/On Instagram and other social media at: _hello911Find More Resources at http://www.theraspydispatcher.com Youtube | https://www...

This podcast was born out of a segment on my youtube channel the raspy dispatcher. After lots of folks asking for a audio version i decided to make that happen. Make sure to subscribe so you dont miss out on any upcoming episodes. Follow on Socials Youtube - The Raspy DispatcherInstagram - @theraspydispatcherFacebook - The Raspy Dispatcherwww.theraspydispatcher.comThank you for listening to Let's Talk Dispatch! Don't forget to subscribe and leave a 5 Star Review!Follow Us on So...

Interested in learning more about the City of Ontario Fire Department?Make sure to check out joinofd.org and if you happen to be checking out this video around July 2022, make sure to check back as they will be opening a Full time and Part-time recruitment on July 5th!Find More Resources at http://www.theraspydispatcher.comYoutube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIy_gcghvqif2_mRdTVXyQ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/theraspydispatcher/?utm_medium=copy_link Facebook | https://...

Introducing the first installment of Voices from the Communication Center—a powerful segment spotlighting the real stories, advice, and daily realities of 911 dispatchers who serve as the lifeline in your community. In this episode, we visit Aurora 911 in Aurora, CO; Pleasanton Police Department in Pleasanton, CA; Lincoln Police Department in Lincoln, NE; and San Jose Police Department in CA. While this video showcases some of the incredible heroes we spoke with, it doesn’t feature ...

Dispatching in a small town, join me on this episode of Let's Talk Dispatch where I connect with a good friend and Dispatcher Mackenzie Kollasch. As we talk about their experience dispatching in Iowa and her journey as a business owner. You can connect with KenzieFacebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/nextlevelnutrition.esthervilleIG Link: @nextlevelnutrition_estherville Herbalife Website: https://mackenzie-siefken.goherbalife.com/Catalog/Home/Index/en-usFind More Resources at http://w...

Halcyon is a familiar face in the dispatch realm if you ask me! I had such a wonderful time connecting and hearing all about their amazing journey and new adventures with the Denise Amber Lee Foundation. You Can find Halcyon on Facebook and IG at Halcyon Frankand by searching The Dispatch Lab!You can and most certainly should Check the Denise Amber Lee Foundation https://deniseamberlee.orgEmail halcyon@deniseamberlee.comFind More Resources at http://www.theraspydispatcher.com You...

Dispatchers and first responders generally take on many other people's worse days. If you are in this field or interested in getting into this line of work, knowing it's okay not to be okay is essential. First Responder Wellness is a great company geared towards helping first responders get through the harsh realities of the job. Make sure to listen to my chat with Cassie Sexton from First Responder Wellness!For more information on the services offered by First Responder Wellness, you can rea...

When you dial 911, there's a common belief that help is instantly on its way.

While technology has come a long way, it’s not always perfect. RapidDeploy, however, is a company working to change that by empowering first responders with tools to locate callers quickly—because every second counts.

In today’s Let’s Talk Dispatch segment, I’m joined by Stacy Miller from RapidDeploy. Together, we dive into the groundbreaking, life-saving technology that’s transforming how 911 dispatchers and first responders operate.

Tune in to learn how this innovation is making a difference when it matters most.Learn more by visiting RapidDeploy If you’re enjoying this content, we have even more resources for both aspiring and current dispatchers! Explore it all at theraspydispatcher.com.

You can stream our podcast, Let’s Talk Dispatch, on your favorite platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Stay connected with us on social media—just search for The Raspy Dispatcher on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

Don’t forget to join our private Facebook group, Let’s Talk Dispatch—a supportive and uplifting community for current, aspiring, and former dispatchers!

Had a wonderful time talking with Raina Beugelink on Let's Talk Dispatch. I am not kidding. I learned SO MUCH in just our short time spent together.Raina is a dietitian and creator of shiftworknutrition.com, where she works in the private sector, specifically with shift workers on their nutrition goals. ⁠When I found out I was going to be working graveyard, I first hopped onto google and searched for something like "how to survive graveyard" or "when to eat when working graveyard," etc.⁠⁠&nbs...

In this episode, Keely Heyman, Executive Director of the Mountain Valley Emergency Communications Center joins me for a conversation about leadership, the evolution of 911, and how she began her career after an argument with a dispatcher!Keely Heyman Linkedin | https://www.linkedin.com/in/keely-heyman-enp-6743141a2/Find More Resources at http://www.theraspydispatcher.com Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIy_gcghvqif2_mRdTVXyQ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/ther...

Nick Sutton joins me virtually from the UK to talk about Emergency Locate. A fantastic software he developed after spending many years in ambulance services and working with 999. ⁠⁠I learned early in my 911 training that in a high-priority call situation like a shooting or other in-progress call, you only need two things to drop a call, location and call type. The rest we can add once we get folks moving the way they need to go. ⁠⁠Location is essential in emergency response services; having a...

Have a story to share? The Let's Talk Dispatch Podcast is all about amplifying the voices of dispatchers and emergency services professionals! You can:✅ Sign up to be a guest and share your journey, insights, and lessons learned in this incredible field.✅ Submit your story to be featured on a Let's Talk Dispatch minisode – whether it's a funny call, a heartfelt moment, or a unique experience from the comm center, we want to hear it!Both options can be found at out website theraspydispatc...

In this episode, I’m joined by Danny McAtee, the Director of Peer Support for Runestone Ranch, Danny is a seasoned EMS professional with over 20 years of experience in emergency services. We discuss the critical importance of mental health support for first responders, and how peer support can bridge the gap between fieldwork and mental health resilience. Danny shares his insight into the behind-the-scenes pressures of emergency response and what needs to change to better support those ...

In today’s episode, we’re joined by a Fire/EMS Manager Matt Glogolich. With almost 14 years of dedication to Public Safety Communications, Matt has climbed the ranks from an entry-level dispatcher to a leadership position, overseeing Fire and EMS operations. They'll share stories from the field, discuss the challenges and triumphs of their journey, and offer insights into what it takes to thrive in this high-stakes career.Whether you're an aspiring dispatcher, a seasoned professional, or...

In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Snead, Program Coordinator and Lead Instructor at the Houston Community College 911 Dispatch Academy. With nearly a decade of hands-on dispatch experience, Jessica has worked across all emergency service disciplines, rising to a supervisory role and now actively training the next generation of dispatchers. Jessica shares her passion for elevating pre-agency training to better equip dispatchers before they step into their roles. She believes that forma...

In this episode, I’m joined by Jeremy, a dedicated firefighter and the leader of Beyond the Badge Paranormal. With 18 years of experience in emergency services, Jeremy shares his personal journey through mental health challenges and his passion for raising awareness on these critical issues. As a paranormal investigator, Jeremy also brings some chilling stories from his ghost-hunting adventures. Together, we explore the intersection of first responders’ mental health and the supernatural. You...

In this special episode of The Let’s Talk Dispatch Podcast, we're shaking things up with a conversation that goes both ways! I’m joined by students from Seneca College’s 911 & Emergency Services Communications Program, where they’re diving into an APCO-accredited course on Communication and Center Technology. These future dispatchers have just as many questions for me as I do for them. Tune in to hear how Canada is shaping the next generation of dispatchers, and how The Ras...

In this episode of Let’s Talk Dispatch, I’m joined by Brandi Powell, Executive Director and Founder of The 911 Chaplain Initiative Inc. With 15 years of experience as a dispatcher and trainer, Brandi shares her journey, the inspiration behind her nonprofit, and her mission to provide emotional and spiritual support to telecommunicators.We discuss the challenges of fundraising, the critical role of well-being in the 911 profession, and how both individuals and organizations can make a meaningful impact.Connect with Brandi:

Instagram & TikTok: @the911chaplain

Website: goldlinechaplains.org