Within the Trenches

Episode 657 features Cheyenne, a 911 professional out of Kansas.
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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 [email protected].

Episode 656 features an Open Mic LIVE solo episode.
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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 [email protected].

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 [email protected].

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 [email protected].

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 [email protected].