Ep 582 features Desmond, a Community Relations Supervisor at Cobb County 911 out of GA.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

Ep 550 features Jenessa, Level 3 - 911 Professional out of St. George Communications, Utah. 

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Episode topics –

• Training, unexpected calls, and personal growth insights from almost 15 years in the field are explored

• The importance of staying calm and compassionate in high-pressure situations is highlighted

• Jenessa shares her journey into public safety and the overwhelming nature of starting as a dispatcher

• She discusses distressing 911 calls and heartwarming moments of guiding parents through delivering babies

• Jenessa recounts performing CPR on a collapsed man during a 5k race

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 549 features Jonathan, TC CTO, with Johnston County, NC. 

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Episode topics –

• The emotional toll of a significant 911 call that changed Jonathan's perspective

• The importance of supportive family and coworkers in dispatch work

• Navigating the transition between different dispatch roles

• The intensity and unpredictability of dispatch work

• The journey of personal growth and leaving a positive legacy 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 548 features #IAM911 stories from the Imagine Listening session at the 9-1-1 Leadership Training retreat at the Mayan Ranch, hosted by the 360 Degree Dispatcher. WARNING - THIS EPISODE CONTAINS AUDIO THAT MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES. IF YOU SUFFER FROM PTSD OR HAVE SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, THIS MAY BE A TRIGGER. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.

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Episode topics –

• Child's tragic passing and creation of a memorial room

• Emotional toll of handling a call about a deceased 13-year-old

• Saving a 17-day-old baby who wasn't breathing

• Encountering a hysterical caller after a suicide attempt

• Dealing with the trauma of officers being shot at a domestic violence scene

As always, 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 547 features Cat, 911 Communications Supervisor at Riverside County Sheriff's Department, CA. 

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Episode topics –

• How Cat's unexpected journey into public safety began and her initial impressions of the dispatcher's role.

• The rigorous hiring process for 911 dispatchers and what it takes to become a certified training officer.

• The emotional ride of taking life-altering emergency calls and the coping mechanisms dispatchers use.

• Cat's harrowing experience with a suicidal caller and the profound impact it had on her.

As always, 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 546 features Lauren Spencer, a Retired 911 professional and Life Stylist Entrepreneur. 

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Episode topics –

• Lauren's path into public safety and overcoming initial setbacks.

• The intense training process and demands of a 911 dispatcher.

• Emotional and impactful experiences of life-saving calls.

• The importance of sharing stories and celebrating wins in a demanding job.

As always, 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 545 features Jeff, 2nd generation dispatch, 3rd generation fireman out of WestComm Regional, Massachusetts. 

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Episode topics –

• Explore Jeff Hastings’ journey and growth in the public safety field, reflecting on the influence of his father and mentorship from key figures like David Squires.

• Learn about the emotional and psychological challenges faced by dispatchers, including Jeff's personal struggles and the critical incidents that impacted him.

• Hear about the transformative power of networking events and training programs in Texas that helped Jeff overcome personal fears and embrace professional speaking.

• Understand the importance of mental health support in dispatch roles, as discussed by Jeff and Ricardo, highlighting sessions that aid in processing traumatic experiences.

As always, 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 544 features Stephanie, a 911 Professional out of Georgia.

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Episode topics –

• Discover Stephanie’s journey from ambulance driver to skilled EMT, and how she transitioned to the demanding role of a 911 dispatcher.

• Learn about the challenges and emotional toll of handling emergency calls, including a life-saving moment during a CPR call.

• Explore the evolution of emergency dispatch technology from flip cards to electronic tablets, and the skills required to succeed in this high-stress environment.

• Hear about the unique "dispatch ear" and how dispatchers manage the intense multitasking of listening, typing, and processing critical information.

• Discussion on the importance of support and coping mechanisms within the dispatch center to handle the psychological stress of the job.

As always, 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 543 features Lea Harms, 911 Professional, Industry Partner, and Author of "Lives on the Line."

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Now and then there is a snag and that’s life. This is also true when self-publishing or even through a publishing house. Snags happen, but no worries, you can sign up to find out more about Lives on the Line and its availability as soon as it is ready. Head over to Lea’s website for more information on her book, “Lives on the Line.”

Lives on the Line | Website

Episode topics –

• Lea's 911 story

• Discover how Lea's leap into dispatching led to a transformative career and inspired her book, "Lives on the Line".

• Learn about the intense training and personal growth experienced by 911 dispatchers, including Lea's own story of validation during a harrowing school shooting incident.

• Explore the emotional journey and therapeutic nature of writing as Lea talks about her emotional process in penning her experiences.

• Understand the impact and personal transformations faced by those in the 911 profession through Lea's perspective.

As always, 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 542 features 911 dispatch stories from around North Carolina. The North Carolina 911 board and Within the Trenches podcast partnered on classes and podcast episodes to highlight the amazing work of 911 professionals throughout the state in celebration of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. This is the last installment in this series out of Johnston County 911.

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Episode topics –

• Answering 911 Calls: The Emotional Rollercoaster of a Dispatcher's Job

• The Power of Self-Care: Personal Story and Professional Insight

• The Importance of Recognition for 911 Professionals: Celebrating their Essential Role

• and more

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

Ep 541 features 911 dispatch stories from around North Carolina. The North Carolina 911 board and Within the Trenches podcast partnered on classes and podcast episodes to highlight the amazing work of 911 professionals throughout the state in celebration of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. This is a continuation of this series out of Johnston County 911.

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Episode topics –

• Technology Boosts Safety: Tracking Callers for Better Help

• The Importance of Compassion in Customer Service: How Being Human Can Lead to Success

• The Importance of Leadership and Support in Building a Successful Community

• and more

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

Ep 540 features 911 dispatch stories from around North Carolina. The North Carolina 911 board and Within the Trenches podcast partnered on classes and podcast episodes to highlight the amazing work of 911 professionals throughout the state in celebration of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

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Episode topics –

• Kristen's 911 story

• HR with Lorenda

• Lynda’s 911 story

• and more

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

Ep 539 features Kris, Director of Program Development at The Healthy Dispatcher.

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Episode topics –

• Kris's 911 story

• The daunting learning curve of dispatch codes and the memorization techniques that Kris used to master them.

• Training complexities in 911 dispatch and the personal growth that comes from facing such stress-inducing experiences.

• Relatable anecdotes from Kris's early days of taking calls, including mishaps and the unique multitasking demands of the job.

• Kris and Ricardo's perspectives on the importance of supportive training and the process of becoming competent and confident dispatchers.

• The impactful stories of struggles and career transitions, highlighting the deep emotional bonds formed in the dispatch community and the continuous endeavor to give back and support the profession.

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

Ep 538 features Katie, a 911 dispatcher with Rockford 911 out of Illinois.

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Episode topics –

• Katie's 911 story

• How a background in special education equipped her to handle intense emergency calls involving children with autism

• Learn about the rigorous process Katie underwent to join the dispatch team, including testing, interviews, and a psychological evaluation

• Gain an understanding of the intense training new dispatchers undergo, and how real-life experiences shape their ability to manage emergency situations

• Explore the misconceptions about the dispatch profession and the critical 24/7 commitment it requires, including emotional challenges and the need for quick, accurate information

• Hear Katie's advice for anyone considering a career in dispatch and why recognizing dispatchers as integral parts of the first responder system is essential

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

Ep 537 features Brad Flanagan, Emergency Ops Manager for the Pitkin County Regional Emergency Dispatch Center out of Colorado.

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Episode topics –

• Brad's 911 story

• How Brad's unique journey from the military to 911 dispatching on a dare unveiled his strengths in emergency operations

• The indispensable human element in emergency response that technology can't replace and the potential for AI to reshape the industry

• Tackling the cultural shift in emergency dispatch centers towards a supportive environment and the critical role of mentorship

• The life-altering experiences of a dispatcher, highlighting the significance of dedication and the deep impact of emergency calls

• Brad's insights into the future of dispatching with new technologies, simplifying processes, and overcoming fears to innovate and save lives

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

Ep 536 features Katherine, 911 professional with Ada County Sheriff's Office out of Idaho.

Episode topics –

• Katherine's 911 story
• Exploring the repercussions of tragic calls, including a particularly disturbing case involving a missing child
• The challenges and importance of adequate mental health support and coping strategies for 911 dispatch professionals
• Insights into the rigorous training process for dispatchers and the continuous learning curve in high-stress situations
• How personal experiences and the nature of the job influence parenting and daily life perspectives
• A discussion on the professional and personal victories that come with being on the front lines of emergency response

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

Ep 535 features Ashley, 911 Professional with Rockland PD & Fire, and Greg, 911 Professional with CAL Fire, both out of California. 

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Episode topics –

• Ashley's 911 story

• Greg's 911 story

• Trusting your instincts

• Connecting communities

• How TikTok brought us together

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 534 features Deb, a Psychiatric Clinician, 911 dispatcher, and EMT.

Episode topics –

• Deb recounts her journey in dispatch, including her ability to thrive with ADHD and the contrast in training environments across different agencies.

• The episode delves into the common misconceptions about dispatch work, the diverse nature of calls handled, and the importance of transparency and accountability in public safety.

• Learn about the emotional and family impacts of shift work in dispatch, Deb's transition to becoming a clinician, and how her dispatch experience enhances her therapy practice.

• Ricardo and Deb discuss the significance of recognizing individual strengths in a dispatch setting and the challenges of communication and morale within public safety centers.

• The conversation also covers the serious topic of addressing suicidal thoughts within the profession and the value of seeking appropriate therapeutic support.

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 533 features Ashley, your friendly neighborhood dispatcher from Elkhart City in Indiana.

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Episode topics –

• Discover what lies beyond the emergency communications center - dispatchers' diverse responsibilities and the importance of self-care routines.

• Learn how dispatchers like Ashley cope with the immense stress and emotional toll of the job, and why seeking help is a sign of strength.

• Explore the misconceptions the public has about dispatchers compared to their often dramatized Hollywood counterparts.

• Gain valuable insights as Ashley shares her personal journey and pivotal moments from her 10 years in emergency dispatch.

• Hear about the impact of technology on emergency response operations and the significance of including dispatchers in tech-related decisions.

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 532 features Kelley Cunningham, the Eaton County Central Dispatch Director, as she shares insights on workplace culture, public safety, and the importance of dispatchers in emergency response.

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Episode topics –

• Her journey into public safety and the unexpected path that led her to dispatching.

• The importance of workplace culture and strategies to cultivate a positive environment.

• How the dispatch center prepares and trains to handle emergencies and prioritize mental wellness.

• The significance of public education and humanizing the voice within the 911 dispatch center.

• Reflecting on her career and the gratitude she holds for the experiences that have shaped her leadership.

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 531 features Rich, Dispatch Supervisor with Eaton County Central Dispatch, MI.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web

Episode topics –

• Rich's 9-1-1 story

• Dynamic transformation of emergency dispatch technology

• Integrating military police background into dispatch

• Intense mental health challenges that dispatchers face

• And more

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 530 features Libby, Dispatch Supervisor with Eaton County Central Dispatch, MI.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web

Episode topics –

• Libby's 9-1-1 story

• The Challenges and Memories of a Dispatcher in a Public Safety Family

• The Hardest Decision Ever

• Working with Your Parents

• And more

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 529 features Sondra Wesley, ECC Education Manager with Prepared.

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INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web

Episode topics –

• Sondra's 9-1-1 story

• Unforgettable rescues

• Life lessons for dispatchers

• Revolutionizing dispatch centers

• And more

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 528 features Reese, 9-1-1 Communications Officer, Defiance County Sheriff's Office, OH.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web

Episode topics –

• Reese's 9-1-1 story

• The importance of knowing your location

• Heartbreaking 9-1-1 calls

• Calls that are meant for us

• And more

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 527 features Hannah, CTO w/Jacksonville Sheriff's Officer, FL.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web

Episode topics –

• Hannah's 9-1-1 story

• Heartbreaking police chase tragedy

• Life-saving moments

• Emotional turmoil and Covid

• And more

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 526 features Rhianna, Training Supervisor, and Peer Support Lead with Salt Lake Valley Communications Center.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web

Episode topics –

• Rhianna's 9-1-1 story

• Overcoming insecurities in training

• Life-changing career shift

• Passionate journey of teaching

• And more

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

Welcome to another episode of Within the Trenches, true stories from the 9-1-1 dispatchers who live them. Ep 525 features Open Mic stories from the Imagine Listening session at the 2023 Arkansas APCO/NENA Conference.

Sponsored by

INdigital - Facebook | LinkedIn | Twitter | Web

Episode topics –

• Open Mic stories

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