Within the Trenches

Ep 601 features Rain, an Emergency Communications Officer and CTO, out of Virginia. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – How Rain transitioned from grocery store manager to 911 dispatcher during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic What it's really like to walk into a dispatch center for the first time and train as a new hire The critical role of de-escalation and giving lifesaving instructions over the phone Challenges of work-life balance and mental health for dispatchers, including handling high-impact calls Why Rain became a CTO and her approach to training the next generation of emergency communicators 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 600 features myself. In this episode I take you down a path of reflection from the beginning of the podcast, where it is currently, and the evolution of Within the Trenches and new projects. Episode topics – The origins of Within the Trenches and Ricardo's dispatch career Memorable stories and calls that shaped the podcast Behind-the-scenes of launching the podcast and early challenges with audio and content The evolution of the show, including the #IAM911 movement and Imagine Listening What's next for the podcast and how the community can get involved 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 599 features Amy, a 911 professional out of Buncombe County Public Safety in North Carolina. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Amy's start in public safety, transitioning from a hospital translator to 911 dispatcher Handling overwhelming call volumes and life-or-death situations during Hurricane Helene The emotional impact of difficult calls and the importance of peer support and self-care Adapting to chaos, including technology breakdowns and working without contact from family Moments of hope: community support, the power of kind words, and the road to recovery 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 598 features Stephanie, Director of 911 at Henderson County Sheriff's Office out of NC . Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Stephanie's 18 years of experience in public safety. The unprecedented challenges of Hurricane Helene in Henderson County. The difficulties faced by 911 dispatchers, including increased call volume and lack of resources. The emotional toll on public safety workers as they tried to help their community. Positive outcomes and improved camaraderie among the team post-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.

Ep 597 features Stephen, a Senior Telecommunicator with Danville Fire Department Emergency Communications. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Stephen shares his journey into public safety and how he started as a junior firefighter at the age of 16. The transition from EMS to corrections and eventually into dispatch. Importance of good training and support system for new hires in dispatch. Discussions on how public safety professions can affect personal relationships and parenting. The significance of talking about mental health and wellness in this 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.

Ep 596 features Chase, a 911 professional out of Ohio. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Introduction to Chase's unexpected entry into the public safety field. Challenges of being a 19-year-old working alone in a jail. Chase's transition from aspiring police officer to passionate dispatcher. The significance of having a strong support system in 911 dispatch. Reflections on how the profession impacts personal growth and emotional resilience. 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 595 features Daylan, a center manager at Brazoria County, TX. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Daylan's unique path into the 911 dispatching world and her continuous drive for growth and learning. The challenges and triumphs of her early days in dispatch, including unforgettable calls that tested her resilience. Her experiences with domestic violence calls and the importance of empathy in 911 dispatching. The intersection of career growth and personal faith, and how it has guided Daylan's journey. Sharing stories to inspire and support peers, enhancing the culture and care within the dispatch community. 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 594 features AK Dozanti, a First Responder Wellness Specialist, Speaker, Coach, and Author. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – AK's transition from law enforcement to becoming a wellness specialist. The critical moments in law enforcement that shaped her journey. The importance of mental health resources and recognizing burnout. AK's current work in coaching, speaking, and spreading awareness about wellness. Her debut book, "Beat the Burnout," and its impact on frontline workers. 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 593 features Carmen, a 911 professional with New Hanover County 911, NC. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Carmen's journey to becoming a 911 dispatcher and her role as a bilingual interpreter The emotional challenges and support systems in place for dispatchers handling traumatic calls Insightful anecdotes from ride-alongs and unexpected 911 call situations How dispatchers decompress and manage stress with personal coping strategies 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 592 features Maddie and Casey, 911 professionals with New Hanover County 911, NC. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – The impact of different shift hours on dispatchers' personal lives. The importance of community programs like the CARE team in supporting frequent callers. How previous careers in public service prepared Maddie and Casey for dispatch work. Navigating the lack of closure and dealing with emergency calls. The humor and humaneness behind dispatch, featuring lighter moments mixed in with chaos. 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 591 features Courtnie, a 911 Quality and Training Manager with New Hanover County 911, NC. Episode topics – Discover the challenges and strategies of bridging the gap between seasoned dispatchers and new recruits. Understand the evolving culture in 911 centers and the importance of a supportive work environment. Hear about Courtnie's journey into public safety and the experiences that have shaped her career. Learn about impactful calls and how they influence dispatchers' growth and resilience. Explore the significance of mental health awareness and the changing dynamics in 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.

Ep 590 features Kasey Young, ENP, Executive Director at Stanislaus Regional 911 out of California. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Support Stanislaus Regional 911 by purchasing a Rocket Scientist's shirt. Proceeds go to their wellness team. Purchase here - SR911 Rocket Scientist's T-shirt Episode topics – Kasey Young's journey and 17 years of public safety experience Transitioning a crisis-laden center into a thriving 911 dispatch system The cultural shifts and changes undertaken at Stanislaus Regional 911 The recent public hearing incident and its impact on dispatchers Advocacy for reclassification and recognition of 911 professionals 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 589 features Ryan, a 911 Professional, and Industry Partner with Mindbase with special guests, his parents Ronnie and Carla out of North Carolina. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Early influences on Ryan and his brother Tyler's interest in public safety The role of family support when facing the challenges of a first responder career Ryans' moving recount of his experiences with his late wife, Kayla The overwhelming support from the community during Kayla's illness and after her passing Valuable advice for families of first responders on offering support and understanding 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 588 features Angela, a 911 Professional out of New Hanover County 911, NC. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Angela's introduction to the dispatch field and the unexpected surprises along the way The importance of mental health and wellness for dispatchers Angela's experiences with medical calls and their emotional impact Advice to new hires on maintaining mental health and seeking support 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 587 features Shana, a 911 Professional out of Massachusetts. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Transitioning from a towing company dispatcher to 911 dispatcher Facing the emotional challenges and responsibilities of the job Handling a traumatic personal experience while on duty The significance of mental health and self-care in high-stress professions The role of community and support in overcoming personal and professional hurdles 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 586 features Jenny, an Operations Manager, Nashoba Valley Regional Dispatch, Massachusetts . Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Jenny's journey from being an EMT to a 911 dispatcher Navigating the challenges of training and early calls The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her dispatch work Dealing with intense and emotional 911 calls Her transformative experience at a professional development ranch 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 585 features Donna, a 911 Professional at Travis County Sheriff's Office out of Austin, TX. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Challenges and surprises of starting in public safety Donna's transformative experience at a unique leadership training event Early career stories, including memorable calls and interactions The impact and bond of working in a small county sheriff's office Reflections and advice for those starting their journey 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 584 features Scottie, a 911 Professional at Cumberland County Regional Communications, Maine. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – The importance of networking in public safety The memorable transition from an EMT to a 911 dispatcher A harrowing call involving an allergic reaction and quick police response The lasting impact of the job on personal life and mental health 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 583 features Tenisha, a 911 Professional at Cumberland County Regional Communications, Maine. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – The initial surprises and challenges of being a fresh 911 dispatcher Transitioning from customer service to public safety Memorable and intense calls within her first weeks Advice for those considering a career in dispatch 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 582 features Desmond, a Community Relations Supervisor at Cobb County 911 out of GA. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Desmond talks about his unexpected entry into 911 dispatching The challenges and changes in the hiring and training process over the past 10 years Memorable and impactful calls Desmond has handled The importance of community and peer support in 911 services Desmond reflects on what he's learned and how the profession has shaped him 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 581 features Emily, a CTO at Cobb County 911 out of GA. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Emily's initial reluctance to disclose her hearing aids and how she overcame it The importance of supportive colleagues and genuine leadership Emily's emotional experience with using hearing aids for the first time Significance of addressing personal and mental health challenges in the workplace Strategies for better self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance 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 580 features Kathy and Jason Lott with the Thin Gold Line Foundation. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Find out more about the Thin Gold Line Foundation - Web Episode topics – Jason's traumatic first call and its long-lasting impacts Coping with critical incidents and lack of immediate support Kathy and Jason's journey through severe health challenges and misdiagnoses The founding of the Thin Gold Line Foundation to aid dispatchers Advocacy for recognizing dispatchers as first responders and improving mental health resources 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 579 features a panel discussion entitled "No Dispatcher Left Behind." The panelists include Roxy VanGundy, director of Lyon County 911, KS, Erin Maccabee, a First Responder Clinician and Co-host of the After the Tones Drop Podcast, Cinnamon Reiheld, a First Responder Clinician and Co-host of the After the Tones Drop Podcast, and myself, Ricardo. This session was part of the Dare to be Great virtual event that took place from December 9 through 13th, 2024. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Strategies for maintaining identity and support post-dispatch service Emotional and psychological impacts of transitioning out of dispatch roles Rethinking traditional practices and fostering inclusivity in social gatherings Importance of community and connectivity among current and former 911 workers 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 578 features Kate, a Business Manager at Cobb County 911 out of GA.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Kate's emergency response experience and the evolution of technology Emotional toll of dispatch work and Kate's background with Homeland Security Importance of understanding personal strengths and finding the right role Kate's transition to Cobb County 911 and her motivation driven by past tragedies 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 577 features Kysheem, an Emergency Communications Officer-2 at Cobb County 911 out of GA.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Real-life experiences from Kysheem's first emergency calls Comparison of phone and radio roles in emergency communications Detailed overview of the extensive training process for dispatchers Importance of staying composed and understanding subtle communication cues in 911 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 576 features Madison, an Emergency Communications Officer 2 and Training Officer 1, at Cobb County 911 out of GA.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – The emotional impact of losing a colleague and the role of peer support The reality versus perception of emergency calls The use of dark humor in coping with job-related stress The importance of teamwork and shared understanding among colleagues 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 575 features Theresa, a CTO at Cobb County 911 out of GA.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Theresa shares her innovative community outreach using reptiles to engage the public The importance of understanding personality types in communication and teamwork Unique dispatch operations using reindeer names during the holiday season Information on how you can participate in educational and humorous emergency service presentations 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 574 features Lindsey, a supervisor in the Employment Relations Unit at Cobb County 911 out of GA.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Lindsey's transition from EMS to fire rescue and then to police dispatch Differences in protocols and communication styles between fire, EMS, and police departments Intense relief and euphoria from successfully resolving challenging calls Memorable and unusual call scenarios, including 'Florida man' incidents and a call involving an emu 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 573 features Jazmine, a Systems Analyst at Cobb County 911 out of GA.  Episode topics – Jazmine's journey from aspiring police officer to systems analyst The importance of training and multitasking in dispatch roles Handling emotional and high-stakes 911 calls Advancements in dispatch technology, including location accuracy and video capabilities 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 572 features Suzanne Carlsen-Skunca, 911 Professional, Owner of Finding Your Path Coaching out of Canada.  Episode topics – Suzanne's first robbery call and diverse experience in emergency dispatch Different shift patterns and their impacts on her well-being Personal challenges and the significance of mental health care A memorable industrial fire call leading to a PTSD diagnosis Career transitions, coaching work, and resilience in first responders 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 571 is an Open Mic session recorded in North Carolina. The stories come from all over the state. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Funny Open Mic 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 570 is an Imagine Listening session recorded in North Carolina. The stories come from all over the state. WARNING - THIS EPISODE CONTAINS AUDIO THAT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES. IF YOU HAVE PTSD OR SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, THIS MAY BE A TRIGGER. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – #IAM911 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 569 is an Open Mic session recorded in Washington DC during the NAVIGATOR conference. The stories come from all over the country. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Funny Open Mic 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 568 is an Imagine Listening session recorded at the 2024 NAVIGATOR conference in Washington DC. The stories come from all over the state. WARNING - THIS EPISODE CONTAINS AUDIO THAT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES. IF YOU HAVE PTSD OR SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, THIS MAY BE A TRIGGER. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – #IAM911 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 567 is an Open Mic session recorded in North Carolina. The stories come from all over the state. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Funny Open Mic 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 566 is an Imagine Listening session recorded in North Carolina. The stories come from all over the state. WARNING - THIS EPISODE CONTAINS AUDIO THAT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES. IF YOU HAVE PTSD OR SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, THIS MAY BE A TRIGGER. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – #IAM911 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 565 is an Open Mic session recorded in North Carolina. Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Open Mic (funny & outrageous) 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 564 is an Imagine Listening session recorded at Burke County 911 in North Carolina. The stories come from all over the state. WARNING - THIS EPISODE CONTAINS AUDIO THAT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES. IF YOU HAVE PTSD OR SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, THIS MAY BE A TRIGGER. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – #IAM911 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 563 features Christa, a 911 professional and Industry Partner out of Michigan.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Struggles with the emotional toll of being a dispatcher and bringing work home The decision to step down from dispatch and feelings of guilt Her new podcast "Open Your Ears" focuses on single parenting and diverse family situations Emotional experiences handling extreme calls, including shootings and a house explosion Advice for current and former dispatchers on managing emotions and transitioning out of 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.

Ep 562 features a special look at National #IAM911 Day, the birth of the #IAM911 Movement, and much more from a LIVE Open Mic broadcast.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – The powerful "Imagine Listening" sessions and their evolution into a podcast and book series The impactful #IAM911 movement and its role in peer support and public education Ricardo's personal journey and inspiration behind his work Special performance by Bailey Johnson and insights on the 911 dispatch experience 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 561 features Elizabeth, an author, and a retired 911 professional.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – The emotional toll of handling traumatic calls The role of peer support and stress management in her department Challenges of working with outdated technology in the 1990s dispatch center Transitioning from work to retirement and pursuing creative projects The importance of seeking culturally competent mental health support 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 560 features Brandon, a 911 Professional from a Regional Emergency Communications Center in western Massachusetts.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Brandon recounts a severe car accident that resulted in a challenging recovery The transition from security to public safety and what drew him to 911 dispatch Unusual and disturbing 911 calls, including domestic disputes and bizarre incidents The impact of mental health on dispatchers and the importance of seeking therapy Reflections on the deep connections formed in dispatch and the fulfillment of helping others 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 559 features Julie, a Senior Level 3 Dispatcher, with St. George Communications Center, Utah.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Julie's transition from nursing school to a career in law enforcement and dispatching The unique traits and skillset required for the demanding role of a 911 professional Navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the work culture The importance of effective leadership, training programs, and a positive work environment Bridging the gap between seasoned and new dispatchers to foster a supportive industry culture 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 558 features Robin, the owner of CrisisIQ.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Robin's unique journey from communications to becoming a trainer and supervisor in dispatch The innovative training techniques she developed and implemented at her agency An emotionally challenging first call and the importance of caller management Robin's advice on the significance of work-life balance and avoiding burnout Insight into Robin's company, CrisisIQ, and its tailored training programs 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 557 features Marlene, an Emergency Specialist - 1 with Aurora 911 out of Colorado.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Marlene recounts the emotional impact of a call involving a mother accidentally running over her one-year-old baby The struggles of translating and dealing with medical and fire emergencies Navigating the complexities of revealing their identities while handling calls Marlene's transition to working in public safety and her initial challenges The importance of managing stress and maintaining passion for 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.

Ep 556 features Joey, a Professional Development Specialist with Aurora 911 out of Colorado.  Episode topics – Joey's path to joining the public safety field and his personal connection to 911 dispatching The emotional and professional challenges faced during initial training and first emergency calls The unique structure and supportive culture at Aurora 911, including professional development roles Benefits and amenities provided to dispatchers, such as ergonomic workstations and a free coffee machine Advice for new dispatchers on trusting the process and overcoming self-doubt 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 555 features a conversation from the Dispatcher's Roundtable - Round 41 on leadership and the transformational experience of the Leadership Training event at the Mayan Ranch hosted by the 360 Dispatcher.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Tyler's emotional performance and conversation about Kari's law Corinne's reflections on her eye-opening ranch experience Joe Serio's insights on personal growth and facing challenges Terrie's heartfelt account of overcoming skepticism and emotional breakthroughs Juliet's journey from shy dispatcher to confident public speaker and marathon runner 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 554 features Mario, an Emergency Specialist - 3 with Aurora 911 out of Colorado.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Mario's initial interest in being an EMT and the shift to 911 dispatching Challenges and adrenaline rush of early days in dispatch The impact of working on high-stress calls Memorable and haunting calls in dispatch Tips and advice for new dispatchers from Mario's six years of experience 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 553 features Bess, a Management Assistant, and Pam, a Chaplain with Aurora 911 out of Colorado.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Bess reflects on the positive impact of kindness during a memorable Thanksgiving as a dispatcher The importance of being human and adaptable in the ever-evolving field of dispatching Transitioning careers from dispatching to management and the associated challenges Pam's insights on the role and selection of chaplains for first responders Holistic wellness practices and the significance of spirituality in supporting dispatchers and their families 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 552 features Reyna, an Emergency Specialist 1 with Aurora 911 out of Colorado.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Episode topics – Reyna's journey into public safety and criminal justice The challenges of working early morning shifts Handling emotionally intense 911 calls The complexity of translating emergency calls Unexpected moments with family members calling in emergencies 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 551 features Carlynn, 911 Professional and Engagement Strategist with FirstWatch.  Sponsored by INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web Learn more about FirstWatch - Web Episode topics – The importance of standardized questions and procedures in dispatching. Personal stories of challenging calls and their emotional impact. How First Watch software aids dispatch centers by automating tasks and analyzing call data. The significance of accreditation as a center of excellence in emergency dispatch. Strategies for maintaining professional boundaries and fostering trust within dispatch 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.