Within the Trenches

Episode 649 features a solo episode with me, Ricardo, and we answer the following questions, "what has dispatch taught me about humanity?" Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The impact of the #IAM911 movement and upcoming 10-year anniversary challenge coin Dark realities dispatchers face, including high-stress incidents like officer-involved shootings and domestic calls Stories illustrating the fragility and unpredictability of life as heard through 911 calls Uplifting and rewarding outcomes, from lives saved during crises to heartfelt caller gratitude Why sharing these powerful stories benefits dispatchers and the public, with resources for ongoing support and education If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

Episode 648 features Brandi, Executive Dir. with The 911 Chaplain Initiative. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web The 911 Chaplain Initiative - Web Episode topics – Brandy Powell's path from growing up with a police officer father to becoming a 911 dispatcher and chaplain The emotional impact of critical calls and finding closure as a dispatcher How humor, empathy, and community help dispatchers handle career challenges The creation and growth of the 911 Chaplain Initiative and its national academy Opportunities to get involved, upcoming training academies, and how to connect with the initiative If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

Episode 647 features Ashley, a 911 professional with Skiatook Police Department in Oklahoma. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – How Ashley got into public safety and her rapid onboarding experience. The challenges and surprises of being a new 911 dispatcher. The emotional impact of emergency calls and handling stress on the job. Ashley's life-saving CPR call and recognition from the community. The importance of peer support, closure, and emotional support animals in dispatch centers. If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

Episode 646 features Autumn, a 911 professional at Indian River County Sheriff's Office out of Florida. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – How Autumn got started in public safety and her motivation behind the career The intense first calls, including challenging suicide and CPR emergencies Coping with emotional stress and the importance of mental health support in dispatch centers Autumn's unforgettable baby delivery call on Valentine's Day and earning her stork pin Advice for new dispatchers about training, confidence, and handling tough calls If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

Episode 645 features an Open Mic LIVE chat with Joe Serio of the 360 Dispatcher as we look at the 911 Leadership Training event he hosts at the Mayan ranch in Bandera, TX. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Behind-the-scenes look at the 911 leadership and mental health training events at the Mayan Ranch The importance of breaking the ice and building real connections among first responders Honest talk about fear, vulnerability, and the obstacles that hold us back—plus how to move forward Inspiring stories about personal and professional transformation from the ranch experience Details on upcoming events, ways to get involved, and where to find more resources for dispatchers and leaders If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].