Within the Trenches

Episode 660 features a panel discussion from a recent Public Safety Showcase virtual event covering AI Tech and mental health for 911 professionals. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The real impact of AI on dispatcher cognitive load and stress management Why wellness apps often fall short for frontline public safety professionals Balancing public perception and internal stigma about AI use in 911 centers The critical role of vendor-agency collaboration in effective tech adoption Big-picture ideas for the future of AI-driven wellness and support in emergency communications If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

Episode 659 features Donna, a 911 professional out of Texas. In this episode, we have a candid conversation on suicide in 911 dispatch. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The unseen trauma and emotional burdens shouldered by dispatchers Why dispatcher suicides remain under-recognized and rarely discussed What "struggle" actually looks like in the life of a dispatcher The barriers and stigma around seeking help in this field Practical tools, peer support, and what really works to cope and heal If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

Episode 658 is a solo episode where I discuss the top three things that I had to explain to friends, family, and callers about 911. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The truth about tracing 911 calls and caller location technology Why dispatchers ask so many questions during emergencies The realities of putting callers on hold and response times The misconception that dispatchers "just sit and answer phones" Staffing shortages, burnout, and what really goes on behind the scenes If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

Episode 657 features Cheyenne, a 911 professional out of Kansas. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web 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. Sponsored by 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].