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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.

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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.

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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.

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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.

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 wttpodcast@gmail.com.