Within the Trenches

Episode 672 features Chantele, an Emergency Dispatcher with Maryland State Police. This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Navigating the demanding hiring process and intense background checks for dispatchers The impact of rotating shifts and missing family milestones and holidays Adapting skills from retail work to emergency dispatch situations Trauma bonding, mental health challenges, and support systems on the job Coping strategies and advice for new dispatchers entering the field If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

Episode 671 features Ashley, your friendly neighborhood 911 dispatcher out of Elkhart City, IN. This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – The progress and challenges of ride-alongs, staffing, and cross-training in modern dispatch centers How Ashley transitioned from dispatcher to supervisor and her strategies for building a positive team culture Mental health struggles, the importance of self-care, and the impact of therapy on career sustainability Changes in training new dispatchers and the shift toward a more supportive, inclusive atmosphere Real-life critical incidents, including officer-involved shootings, and their lasting effect on perspective and practice If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

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 to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

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 have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at [email protected].

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 [email protected].