Within the Trenches

Ep 603 features Sheriff Griffin out of Henderson County in North Carolina.

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Episode topics –

  • Sheriff Griffin’s journey from rural volunteer firefighter to county sheriff

  • The excitement, challenge, and camaraderie that fuels a career in public safety

  • Memorable and impactful calls that shaped his career

  • The vital role dispatchers play on the front lines of emergency response

  • Sheriff Griffin’s straightforward advice to those starting out 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.

Direct download: wttep603.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:12am EDT

Ep 602 features Hunter, a 911 Professional out of South Carolina.

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Episode topics –

  • Hunter’s early start in public safety as a 14-year-old volunteer firefighter and how it shaped his career path

  • The transition from field responder to 911 dispatcher, and the differences between working on scene and behind the headset

  • Memorable and difficult calls, including the impact of traumatic incidents and how they affect mental health

  • Insights into training, working with small teams, and adapting to the high demands of dispatch centers

  • The importance of personal growth, finding balance outside of work, and advice for those new to 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.

Direct download: wttep602.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:25am EDT

Ep 601 features Rain, an Emergency Communications Officer and CTO, out of Virginia.

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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.

Direct download: wttep601.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:10am EDT

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.

Direct download: wttep600.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:04am EDT

Ep 599 features Amy, a 911 professional out of Buncombe County Public Safety in North Carolina.

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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.

Direct download: wttep599.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:05pm EDT

Ep 598 features Stephanie, Director of 911 at Henderson County Sheriff's Office out of NC .

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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.

Direct download: wttep598.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:56am EDT

Ep 597 features Stephen, a Senior Telecommunicator with Danville Fire Department Emergency Communications.

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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.

Direct download: wttep597.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:20pm EDT

Ep 596 features Chase, a 911 professional out of Ohio.

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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.

Direct download: wttep596.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:10pm EDT

Ep 595 features Daylan, a center manager at Brazoria County, TX.

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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.

Direct download: wttep595.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:19am EDT

Ep 594 features AK Dozanti, a First Responder Wellness Specialist, Speaker, Coach, and Author.

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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.

Direct download: wttep594.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:55am EDT

Ep 593 features Carmen, a 911 professional with New Hanover County 911, NC.

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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.

Direct download: wttep593.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:42pm EDT

Ep 592 features Maddie and Casey, 911 professionals with New Hanover County 911, NC.

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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.

Direct download: wttep592.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:59pm EDT

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.

Direct download: wttep591.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:59am EDT

Ep 590 features Kasey Young, ENP, Executive Director at Stanislaus Regional 911 out of California.

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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.

Direct download: wttep590.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:54pm EDT

Ep 589 features Ryan, a 911 Professional, and Industry Partner with Mindbase with special guests, his parents Ronnie and Carla out of North Carolina.

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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.

Direct download: wttep589.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:30am EDT

Ep 588 features Angela, a 911 Professional out of New Hanover County 911, NC.

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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.

Direct download: wttep588.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:56am EDT

Ep 587 features Shana, a 911 Professional out of Massachusetts.

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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.

Direct download: wttep587.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:31am EDT

Ep 586 features Jenny, an Operations Manager, Nashoba Valley Regional Dispatch, Massachusetts .

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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.

Direct download: wttep586.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:08am EDT

Ep 585 features Donna, a 911 Professional at Travis County Sheriff's Office out of Austin, TX.

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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.

Direct download: wttep585.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:39am EDT

Ep 584 features Scottie, a 911 Professional at Cumberland County Regional Communications, Maine.

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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.

Direct download: wttep584.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:05am EDT

Ep 583 features Tenisha, a 911 Professional at Cumberland County Regional Communications, Maine.

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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.

Direct download: wttep583.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:12am EDT

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