Within the Trenches

Episode 648 features Brandi, Executive Dir. with The 911 Chaplain Initiative.
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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 [email protected].

Episode 647 features Ashley, a 911 professional with Skiatook Police Department in Oklahoma.
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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 [email protected].

Episode 646 features Autumn, a 911 professional at Indian River County Sheriff's Office out of Florida.
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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 [email protected].

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.
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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 [email protected].

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
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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 [email protected].