Within the Trenches Ep 670
Within the Trenches
Episode 670 features four powerful stories that reflect on the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Episode topics – Personal accounts from dispatchers, EMTs, firefighters, and police officers on September 11th, 2001 Behind-the-scenes realities of working in public safety during a national tragedy The emotional impact and long-term effects experienced by first responders How 9/11 led to critical changes in technology and emergency communications Lessons on resilience, community response, and the ongoing importance of sharing these stories If you have any comments or questions or would like...
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Within the Trenches Ep 669
Within the Trenches
Ep. 669 features a LIVE broadcast from the 2026 NC PSAP Manager’s Conference. Episode topics – Real-life stories from dispatchers and center managers about entering and growing in 911 careers The importance of resilience, support systems, and coping mechanisms in emergency communications Advancements in Next Generation 911 technology and statewide disaster response strategies Generational impacts, career motivation, and memorable calls in the dispatch profession Recruitment advice and resources for those considering a career as a 911 telecommunicator in North Carolina If you...
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Within the Trenches Ep 668
Within the Trenches
Episode 668 features a solo episode in celebration of a Decade of Voices, the tenth anniversary of the #IAM911 movement. Episode topics – The 10-year anniversary and global reach of the #IAM911 movement The origins and impact of sharing dispatcher stories Introduction of imaginelistening.com as a living archive for stories The launch of the Gary Allen Legacy Collection preserving historical 911 audio Exclusive teasers and announcements about the future of Imagine Listening If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at .
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Within the Trenches Ep 667
Within the Trenches
Episode 667 features Jen, a Dispatch Coordinator with Cass County Sheriff's Department, MI. Sponsored by RapidSOS - | | | Episode topics – Jen’s early influences and journey into public safety dispatching Evolution of technology and the dispatch center, from dot matrix printers to gaming monitors Handling critical and emotionally challenging calls and their long-term impact The importance of mentorship, humility, and celebrating wins in the dispatch center Navigating retirement, identity, and mental health in a demanding 911 career If you have any comments or questions or...
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Within the Trenches Ep 666
Within the Trenches
Episode 666 features a solo episode where we visit an archive of past 911 calls. This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS Episode topics – The origins of Within the Trenches and how the podcast was launched Breakdown and discussion of a disturbing family homicide 911 call Analyzing a deceptive 911 call where the caller is later revealed as the suspect The tension and fear of live home invasion calls and how dispatchers guide callers through them The critical importance of dispatcher intuition in situations where callers cannot speak freely If you have any comments or questions or...
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Within the Trenches Ep 665
Within the Trenches
Episode 665 features Jami, a 911 professional and peer support specialist at Lee Summit Fire, Missouri. Sponsored by RapidSOS - | | | Episode topics – Why Jami originally planned to become a firefighter and chose to stay in dispatch The pivotal call that changed her career path and her advice on coping with tough calls How peer support has evolved in the industry and why it matters Memorable calls from the tragic to the unexpectedly funny How sharing stories helps both new and experienced dispatchers handle the stresses of the job If you have any comments or questions or...
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Within the Trenches Ep 664
Within the Trenches
Episode 664 features a discussion from round 46 of the Dispatcher's Roundtable on Zero Suicide Kits, red flags, and much more with guest, Dawn Shumway. Episode topics – Practical tips for real suicide prevention and “zero suicide proofing” your support network The true look of struggle: why “happy” coworkers may actually be drowning Taking imperfect action: why showing up beats waiting for perfect plans Building hope with simple acts—from freezer meals to eight-minute lifelines Creating agency cultures where vulnerable conversations and support are normalized If you...
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Within the Trenches Ep 663
Within the Trenches
Episode 663 features a solo episode where I revisit and celebrate the 13 year anniversary of my last day at Allegan County Central Dispatch in Michigan. Sponsored by RapidSOS - | | | Episode topics – Ricardo recounts leaving his dispatch career after 13 years and what led to that decision Highlights from early podcasting days, including memorable conferences and media appearances The significance of sharing dispatch stories for support, inspiration, and therapy A detailed recap of his last 16-hour shift, final radio transmission, and emotional goodbyes Reflections on the...
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Within the Trenches Ep 662
Within the Trenches
Episode 662 features Erica, a peer support specialist and CTO with Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority, MI. Sponsored by RapidSOS - | | | Episode topics – Erica's journey from the ER to a 13-year dispatch career Training philosophy: building trust, sharing mistakes, and modernizing the culture Public education efforts and common 9-1-1 misconceptions Burnout, boundaries, and the decision to reclaim personal well-being The shift toward hope, teamwork, and why this profession is still worth saving If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on...
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Within the Trenches Ep 661
Within the Trenches
Episode 661 features a panel discussion from a recent Public Safety Showcase virtual event entitled, “Dispatcher Suicide: Breaking the Silence.” Sponsored by RapidSOS - | | | Episode topics – Why dispatcher suicide remains a taboo topic in public safety What struggle really looks like among dispatchers Why it’s easier for dispatchers to help others than themselves Practical mental health resources and what truly helps How agencies and coworkers navigate the aftermath and support survivors If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show,...
info_outlineEp. 669 features a LIVE broadcast from the 2026 NC PSAP Manager’s Conference.
Episode topics –
-
Real-life stories from dispatchers and center managers about entering and growing in 911 careers
-
The importance of resilience, support systems, and coping mechanisms in emergency communications
-
Advancements in Next Generation 911 technology and statewide disaster response strategies
-
Generational impacts, career motivation, and memorable calls in the dispatch profession
-
Recruitment advice and resources for those considering a career as a 911 telecommunicator in North Carolina
If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.