Explore every episode of the podcast Within the Trenches

Episode 673 features Christina, a peer support specialist, and 911 professional at Cary PD in NC.

This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Christina's career path from detention officer to long-time 911 dispatcher and part-time firefighter

• Differences in working at county versus city dispatch centers

• How serious calls and daily chaos impact mental health and the value of wellness practices

• Mentoring, tough calls, and the importance of peer support in the dispatch community

• Christina's powerful personal stories, including handling a life-changing fire emergency and family health struggles, and what she's learned along the way

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 672 features Chantele, an Emergency Dispatcher with Maryland State Police.

This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Navigating the demanding hiring process and intense background checks for dispatchers

• The impact of rotating shifts and missing family milestones and holidays

• Adapting skills from retail work to emergency dispatch situations

• Trauma bonding, mental health challenges, and support systems on the job

• Coping strategies and advice for new dispatchers entering the field

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 671 features Ashley, your friendly neighborhood 911 dispatcher out of Elkhart City, IN.

This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• The progress and challenges of ride-alongs, staffing, and cross-training in modern dispatch centers

• How Ashley transitioned from dispatcher to supervisor and her strategies for building a positive team culture

• Mental health struggles, the importance of self-care, and the impact of therapy on career sustainability

• Changes in training new dispatchers and the shift toward a more supportive, inclusive atmosphere

• Real-life critical incidents, including officer-involved shootings, and their lasting effect on perspective and practice

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 670 features four powerful stories that reflect on the 25th anniversary of 9/11.

Episode topics –

• Personal accounts from dispatchers, EMTs, firefighters, and police officers on September 11th, 2001

• Behind-the-scenes realities of working in public safety during a national tragedy

• The emotional impact and long-term effects experienced by first responders

• How 9/11 led to critical changes in technology and emergency communications

• Lessons on resilience, community response, and the ongoing importance of sharing these stories

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

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.

Episode 649 features a solo episode with me, Ricardo, and we answer the following questions, "what has dispatch taught me about humanity?"

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• The impact of the #IAM911 movement and upcoming 10-year anniversary challenge coin

• Dark realities dispatchers face, including high-stress incidents like officer-involved shootings and domestic calls

• Stories illustrating the fragility and unpredictability of life as heard through 911 calls

• Uplifting and rewarding outcomes, from lives saved during crises to heartfelt caller gratitude

• Why sharing these powerful stories benefits dispatchers and the public, with resources for ongoing support and education

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 648 features Brandi, Executive Dir. with The 911 Chaplain Initiative.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

The 911 Chaplain Initiative - Web

Episode topics –

• Brandy Powell's path from growing up with a police officer father to becoming a 911 dispatcher and chaplain

• The emotional impact of critical calls and finding closure as a dispatcher

• How humor, empathy, and community help dispatchers handle career challenges

• The creation and growth of the 911 Chaplain Initiative and its national academy

• Opportunities to get involved, upcoming training academies, and how to connect with the initiative

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 647 features Ashley, a 911 professional with Skiatook Police Department in Oklahoma.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• How Ashley got into public safety and her rapid onboarding experience.

• The challenges and surprises of being a new 911 dispatcher.

• The emotional impact of emergency calls and handling stress on the job.

• Ashley's life-saving CPR call and recognition from the community.

• The importance of peer support, closure, and emotional support animals in dispatch 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 646 features Autumn, a 911 professional at Indian River County Sheriff's Office out of Florida.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• How Autumn got started in public safety and her motivation behind the career

• The intense first calls, including challenging suicide and CPR emergencies

• Coping with emotional stress and the importance of mental health support in dispatch centers

• Autumn's unforgettable baby delivery call on Valentine's Day and earning her stork pin

• Advice for new dispatchers about training, confidence, and handling tough calls

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 645 features an Open Mic LIVE chat with Joe Serio of the 360 Dispatcher as we look at the 911 Leadership Training event he hosts at the Mayan ranch in Bandera, TX.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Behind-the-scenes look at the 911 leadership and mental health training events at the Mayan Ranch

• The importance of breaking the ice and building real connections among first responders

• Honest talk about fear, vulnerability, and the obstacles that hold us back—plus how to move forward

• Inspiring stories about personal and professional transformation from the ranch experience

• Details on upcoming events, ways to get involved, and where to find more resources for dispatchers and leaders

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 644 features a look at the 911 Goes to Washington conference hosted by NENA through, 1st VP, Roxy Van Gundy, Congresswoman Norma Torres, and James, a 911 professional out of NJ.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Breakdown of the importance and impact of the 911 Goes to Washington conference.

• Updates on the Enhancing First Response Act and the push to reclassify 911 dispatchers as first responders.

• Inspiring words from Roxy Van Gundy emphasizing that every dispatcher's voice matters, no matter where they come from.

• Recognition of Congresswoman Norma Torres, a former 911 professional, and her ongoing advocacy for emergency communications.

• Behind-the-scenes perspectives on meeting representatives, engaging in legislative efforts, and what it's like at a national public safety gathering with James.

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 643 features Keely, Marketing Contractor with RapidSOS, Ben, VP of Product with RapidSOS, and myself as we cover Most Important Seconds - After the Pitt.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Behind-the-scenes of a special HBO Max event honoring first responders and showcasing "The Pit"

• Real-world challenges of outages in 911 centers and hospitals, and how new tech is making a difference

• The impact of AI and interoperability in public safety, saving precious seconds and supporting understaffed teams

• Candid experiences from career dispatchers, EMTs, and product innovators in the emergency services field

• How storytelling, technology, and mission-driven teams come together to improve outcomes and save lives

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 642 features Alora, director at Unacoi 911 out Tennessee.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• How Alora got started in public safety and her rapid shift from part-time to full-time dispatcher

• The reality of short dispatcher training and surviving the critical early days on the job

• Experiences handling traumatic and life-changing emergency calls

• Leading her team through the chaos of Hurricane Helene and the unexpected impact on the community

• The story of Stella, the dispatch center's emotional support dog, and the positive effect on team morale

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 641 features Gina, ECC Engagement Manager, w/RapidSOS and 911 professional

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Gina's journey from a law enforcement family to a career in dispatch and RapidSOS

• Training challenges and early calls that shaped her perspective

• Emotional toll and mental health strategies for dispatchers

• Memorable stories—both comical and intense—that highlight the dispatch experience

• The shift to RapidSOS, technology's role in saving lives, and advice for new 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.

Ep 640 features Shannon, a 911 professional out of Virginia.

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RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Dispatchers' experiences handling severe winter weather and long shifts

• Shannon's unique journey into dispatch and her approach to training new recruits

• Emotional challenges and the importance of closure after difficult emergency calls

• The viral "trash panda" (raccoon) liquor store incident and how it unfolded from the dispatch perspective

• Advice for staying compassionate and positive in a high-stress 911 environment

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Ep 639 features Hannah, a 911 professional out of Florida.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

• Hannah's unconventional entry into public safety and her first intense sit-along experience

• The unique stresses, training, and teamwork required in a high-volume, multi-position dispatch center

• Memorable and unusual emergency calls—including a runaway monkey and a man-on-fire incident

• The mental health impact of dispatch work and ways to seek support and closure

• Small but meaningful moments where dispatchers make a difference, like teaching someone to tie a tie in a crisis

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Join me for a special episode highlighting a recent project experience with Business Insider for their Insider YouTube channel entitled, "How 911 Dispatchers Actually Work."

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• Preview of Ricardo's appearance on Business Insider's Insider channel

• Real-life 911 calls and memorable dispatcher moments

• The challenges of multitasking and triaging calls under pressure

• The emotional impact and lasting memories from the job

• Advocacy for 911 professionals and why their stories matter

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Join me for a special episode highlighting a recent visit to Calhoun County 911 in Michigan.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

• Shout out and transition for longtime sponsor Indigital, and introduction of RapidSOS as the new episode sponsor.

• Visit to Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority in Michigan, including B-roll, interviews, and the vibe inside the center.

• The importance of teamwork, communication, and positive culture within dispatch centers.

• Emotional highlights from real emergency calls and how dispatchers support each other through critical moments.

• Powerful story of a lifesaving dispatch call coming full circle years later.

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Ep 636 features Carolyn, a 911 professional out of Texas.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

• Carolyn's unexpected start in public safety and her early experiences in dispatch.

• The significance and emotional impact of receiving the Guiding Light Award.

• Memorable calls and moments that shaped Carolyn's career and perspective.

• Major shifts in technology over the last three decades, including AI and real-time crime centers.

• Advice for new dispatchers and the importance of mental health and giving grace in the profession.

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Join me for a special New Year's Eve episode of Within the Trenches, where I share deeply personal and unforgettable stories from the past.

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INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

• Milestones and growth of the Within the Trenches podcast, including over 2.4 million downloads and international reach

• Ricardo's holiday adventures and family stories, from running the Rocky Steps to visiting Centralia, PA

• Behind-the-scenes tales of working New Year's Eve shifts as a dispatcher, including humorous and challenging calls

• Personal experiences taking emergency calls involving friends, family, and even his own house

• A heartfelt tribute to Ricardo's Uncle Emmett and reflections on the importance of family, connection, and living life without regrets

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Join me for a special holiday episode of Within the Trenches, where I share deeply personal and unforgettable stories from Christmases past.

Join me for a special holiday episode of Within the Trenches, where I share deeply personal and unforgettable stories from Christmases past.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

• An unforgettable family break-in during the holidays and how it shaped Ricardo's outlook on safety

• The emotional impact of reuniting with past events through old dispatch records

• Funny and touching family moments, including a classic gift reveal mishap

• Sharing the legendary "Santa BOL" live on the radio and its lasting effect on the community

• How dispatchers stay resilient, create joy, and support each other during the toughest times

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

• An unforgettable family break-in during the holidays and how it shaped Ricardo's outlook on safety

• The emotional impact of reuniting with past events through old dispatch records

• Funny and touching family moments, including a classic gift reveal mishap

• Sharing the legendary "Santa BOL" live on the radio and its lasting effect on the community

• How dispatchers stay resilient, create joy, and support each other during the toughest times

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Ep 633 features Meagan, a 911 professional out of Kansas.

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INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

• How Meagan was inspired by her family's legacy in public safety and shifted from loss prevention to dispatch.

• The challenges and learning curves facing new dispatchers, including handling overwhelming noise and high-stress situations.

• First-hand accounts of critical incidents: from supporting officers during pursuits to dangerous situations.

• The importance of mental health, peer support, and coping mechanisms in dispatch, including emotional support animals.

• The impact of teamwork, support systems, and recognizing the wins within a tough and demanding 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.

Ep 632 features Hope, a 911 director with New Hanover County 911 out of NC.

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INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• First-hand accounts of Hope's early days as a young dispatcher and her baptism by fire

• The unique demands and life-or-death challenges of working in rural, small-town dispatch centers

• The critical impact of effective training, team culture, and mentorship in 911 centers

• Raw, emotional stories from major incidents, including the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene

• Lessons in leadership, mental health support, and advice for anyone entering or staying 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.

Ep 631 features Anthony, a 911 professional and supervisor with Cass County Central Dispatch in Michigan.

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INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• What dispatchers might say if sarcasm was allowed on 911 calls

• The surprising reality behind common (and not-so-emergency) 911 calls

• Dispatchers' picks for their ultimate theme songs while putting on the headset

• Hilarious slip-ups like accidentally saying "I love you" to callers

• The must-have snacks and dream dispatch chair features every dispatcher deserves

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Ep 630 features Nate, a 911 professional and trainer with Cass County Central Dispatch in Michigan.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• The critical role of RapidSOS technology in saving lives and responding to emergencies.

• The emotional impact of high-stress calls, including life-saving successes and tragic outcomes.

• Reenactments and media attention: what it's really like to have cameras in your face after a crisis.

• The importance of closure, peer support, and healthy coping mechanisms in 911 dispatch work.

• Building strong relationships with field responders and the realities of teamwork in life-or-death situations.

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Ep 629 features Anthony, a 911 professional and supervisor with Cass County Central Dispatch in Michigan.

Episode topics –

• Anthony's path from growing up around the firehouse to working 24 years in public safety and 13 years in dispatch

• The unexpected challenges and misconceptions about working in 911, including memorable early calls and on-the-job lessons

• Raw stories that stuck with Anthony, from life-saving outcomes to heartbreaking losses

• How burnout, compassion, and teamwork shape dispatchers over time

• Rapid changes in 911 technology and how the role continues to evolve amidst new tools and expectations

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Ep 628 features Janie and Nate, 911 professionals with Cass County Central Dispatch in Michigan.

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INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• The nerve-wracking experience of being filmed for a special project at Cass County Central Dispatch and Edwardsburg Fire Department

• How Janie and Nate each found their way into dispatch and their early training struggles

• Their personal accounts of memorable first calls and surprising moments on the job

• Detailed breakdown of a life-saving crash detection incident and rapid response teamwork

• The emotional reunion between dispatchers and the accident survivor, and reflections on how dispatch changes lives

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Ep 627 features Tipi, the Chief of Staff at the Office of Unified Communications (OUC).

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INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Tipi's journey from high school aspirations to Chief of Staff at the Office of Unified Communications

• Early experiences and powerful calls that shaped her public safety career

• Major differences in call types and procedures between Amtrak and Montgomery County dispatch

• The impact of ECC workplace culture on retention and employee wellness

• Actionable strategies and real examples to improve morale and build positive ECC environments

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Ep 626 features Jim Schmidt, father of Gabby Petito, first responder, and secretary of the Gabby Petito Foundation. This is a special crossover episode with the Safety Gap podcast where I was a guest co-host with Karin Marquez, Chief Public Safety Brand Officer with RapidSOS.

Learn more about the Gabby Petito Foundation and find resources at https://gabbypetitofoundation.org. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call 1-800-799-SAFE or text START to 88788 for help.

Learn more about the Safety Gap podcast from RapidSOS at rapidsos.com

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Jim Schmidt's 25-year journey in public safety, including his experience as a dispatcher, EMT, firefighter, and instructor.

• The Petito family's decision to turn tragedy into advocacy by founding the Gabby Petito Foundation.

• Gaps in first responder and dispatcher training when it comes to recognizing subtle signs of domestic violence.

• How technology and cross-agency collaboration can improve outcomes for survivors.

• Actionable advice for both first responders and the public to identify, intervene, and support those affected by domestic violence.

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Ep 625 features Phillip Daniels, a 911 Administrator, and Deputy Chief of Desoto Parish Sheriff's Office in Louisiana.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• How Philip transitioned from working in an alligator farm to a lasting career in public safety

• The challenges and surprises faced when moving from patrol to dispatch

• Stories of real-life trauma, resilience, and the importance of mental wellness for first responders

• The pivotal impact of dispatcher support and peer connections during difficult calls

• Insights into the ongoing battle for 911 dispatcher reclassification and recognition 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.

Ep 624 features Victoria, a 911 professional out of Texas.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

• Navigating the massive APCO conference and its unique vendor hall experiences, including the mobile dispatch center "Thor" and wellness puppies

• Victoria's journey from loss prevention to 9-1-1 dispatch and her first intense calls, including a tornado emergency and a deadly accident

• The challenges and mental toll of being a new dispatcher and the expectations of perfection in the role

• Learning about ACE accreditation, protocol-based dispatching, and the importance of quality assurance

• The impact of peer support and mental health resources, how Victoria overcame trauma with EMDR therapy, and her path to becoming an academy instructor after a life-changing leadership retreat

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.