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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.

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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.

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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.

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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.

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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.