Within the Trenches

9-1-1 where is your emergency is what people hear when they call for help, but what is it really like to answer a call during someone’s nightmare? What is the impact on the first responder answering the call? Put on the headset each week to get a glimpse into the world of emergency dispatch, and imagine listening.

Within the Trenches Ep 574 11/21/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 574 Ep 574 features Lindsey, a supervisor in the Employment Relations Unit at Cobb County 911 out of GA. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/34077541

Within the Trenches Ep 573 11/12/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 573 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33903227

Within the Trenches Ep 572 11/11/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 572 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33874852

Within the Trenches Ep 571 10/29/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 571 Ep 571 is an Open Mic session recorded in North Carolina. The stories come from all over the state. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33670022

Within the Trenches Ep 570 10/24/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 570 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. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33592232

Within the Trenches Ep 569 10/18/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 569 Ep 569 is an Open Mic session recorded in Washington DC during the NAVIGATOR conference. The stories come from all over the country. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33518052

Within the Trenches Ep 568 10/11/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 568 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. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33421157

Within the Trenches Ep 567 10/05/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 567 Ep 567 is an Open Mic session recorded in North Carolina. The stories come from all over the state. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33339902

Within the Trenches Ep 566 09/29/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 566 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. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33253082

Within the Trenches Ep 565 09/21/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 565 Ep 565 is an Open Mic session recorded in North Carolina. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33152187

Within the Trenches Ep 564 09/14/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 564 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. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/33054172

Within the Trenches Ep 563 09/04/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 563 Ep 563 features Christa, a 911 professional and Industry Partner out of Michigan. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32899332

Within the Trenches Ep 562 08/29/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 562 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. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32798187

Within the Trenches Ep 561 08/19/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 561 Ep 561 features Elizabeth, an author, and a retired 911 professional. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32635477

Within the Trenches Ep 560 08/14/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 560 Ep 560 features Brandon, a 911 Professional from a Regional Emergency Communications Center in western Massachusetts. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32573322

Within the Trenches Ep 559 08/08/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 559 Ep 559 features Julie, a Senior Level 3 Dispatcher, with St. George Communications Center, Utah. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32496777

Within the Trenches Ep 558 07/29/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 558 Ep 558 features Robin, the owner of CrisisIQ. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32340322

Within the Trenches Ep 557 07/26/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 557 Ep 557 features Marlene, an Emergency Specialist - 1 with Aurora 911 out of Colorado. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32304022

Within the Trenches Ep 556 07/19/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 556 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32218602

Within the Trenches Ep 555 07/16/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 555 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. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32165197

Within the Trenches Ep 554 07/13/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 554 Ep 554 features Mario, an Emergency Specialist - 3 with Aurora 911 out of Colorado. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32121052

Within the Trenches Ep 553 07/06/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 553 Ep 553 features Bess, a Management Assistant, and Pam, a Chaplain with Aurora 911 out of Colorado. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/32031977

Within the Trenches Ep 552 06/25/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 552 Ep 552 features Reyna, an Emergency Specialist 1 with Aurora 911 out of Colorado. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/31889032

Within the Trenches Ep 551 06/18/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 551 Ep 551 features Carlynn, 911 Professional and Engagement Strategist with FirstWatch. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | Learn more about FirstWatch - 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/31799307

Within the Trenches Ep 550 06/12/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 550 Ep 550 features Jenessa, Level 3 - 911 Professional out of St. George Communications, Utah. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/31721327

Within the Trenches Ep 549 06/04/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 549 Ep 549 features Jonathan, TC CTO, with Johnston County, NC. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/31600027

Within the Trenches Ep 548 05/30/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 548 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. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/31533927

Within the Trenches Ep 547 05/25/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 547 Ep 547 features Cat, 911 Communications Supervisor at Riverside County Sheriff's Department, CA. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/31462742

Within the Trenches Ep 546 05/17/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 546 Ep 546 features Lauren Spencer, a Retired 911 professional and Life Stylist Entrepreneur. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/31355812

Within the Trenches Ep 545 05/08/2024

Within the Trenches Ep 545 Ep 545 features Jeff, 2nd generation dispatch, 3rd generation fireman out of WestComm Regional, Massachusetts. Sponsored by INdigital - | | | 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 . /episode/index/show/withinthetrenches/id/31194602

Within the Trenches

TOPICS