Within the Trenches

Episode 675 features a solo episode update for big news on Camp Imagine Listening, wellness initiatives, and behind-the-scenes stories from recent travels.
This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web
Vote for me for Top Host here - https://tophost.org/2026/ricardo-martinez-ii
Episode topics –
Recap of recent podcast episodes, travels, and speaking engagements

The story and mission behind Camp Imagine Listening wellness retreat

Partnership details with Alex Sheen and the "Because I Said I Would" foundation

Plans for funding and launching the first Camp Imagine Listening

How you can support through the Top Host competition and future fundraising efforts

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 674 features Mariah, a 911 dispatcher out of the SW part of Indiana.
Episode topics –
How childhood experiences and early influences led to a career in public safety

Challenges and rewards of working in a small-town emergency services environment

The realities of 911 call-taking, from life-or-death moments to routine requests

The impact of critical incidents and the importance of mental resilience

Details about the "Listen Again" initiative focused on improving emergency communication through curiosity and compassion

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

A mother and her nine month old baby were trapped inside a burning apartment. On the other end of the phone was 911 dispatcher, Christina.
As the fire moved through the apartment, Christina stayed on the line giving instructions, keeping the caller focused, and trying to be the calm voice she needed in a horrific situation.
As the phone went silent, Christina could only hear fire. The call stayed with her long after her shift ended. Years later, she finally had the opportunity to speak with the woman whose voice she had never forgotten.
What the caller told her brought the story full circle. This story comes from Christina's conversation on Within the Trenches Episode 673, where she shares her journey in 911, training the next generation of dispatchers, peer support, and the calls that stay with us.
Within the Trenches - True stories from the 911 dispatchers who live them is a podcast based on the experience of being a 911 professional. Each episode will take you on a roller coaster of emotions.
Subscribe for more stories from 911 heroes like Christina.
#911dispatcher #firstresponders #WithinTheTrenches #IAM911 #podcast

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.