Within the Trenches

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Latest Episodes:

Within the Trenches Ep 666 Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

Episode 666 features a solo episode where we visit an archive of past 911 calls.

This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS

Episode topics –

The origins of Within the Trenches and how the podcast was launched
Breakdown and discussion of a disturbing family homicide 911 call
Analyzing a deceptive 911 call where the caller is later revealed as the suspect
The tension and fear of live home invasion calls and how dispatchers guide callers through them
The critical importance of dispatcher intuition in situations where callers cannot speak freely

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Within the Trenches Ep 665 Aug 07, 2026

Show notes

Episode 665 features Jami, a 911 professional and peer support specialist at Lee Summit Fire, Missouri.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

Why Jami originally planned to become a firefighter and chose to stay in dispatch
The pivotal call that changed her career path and her advice on coping with tough calls
How peer support has evolved in the industry and why it matters
Memorable calls from the tragic to the unexpectedly funny
How sharing stories helps both new and experienced dispatchers handle the stresses of the job

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Within the Trenches Ep 664 Jul 29, 2026

Show notes

Episode 664 features a discussion from round 46 of the Dispatcher's Roundtable on Zero Suicide Kits, red flags, and much more with guest, Dawn Shumway.

Episode topics –

- Practical tips for real suicide prevention and "zero suicide proofing" your support network
- The true look of struggle: why "happy" coworkers may actually be drowning
- Taking imperfect action: why showing up beats waiting for perfect plans
- Building hope with simple acts—from freezer meals to eight-minute lifelines
- Creating agency cultures where vulnerable conversations and support are normalized

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Within the Trenches Ep 663 Jul 24, 2026

Show notes

Episode 663 features a solo episode where I revisit and celebrate the 13 year anniversary of my last day at Allegan County Central Dispatch in Michigan.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

Ricardo recounts leaving his dispatch career after 13 years and what led to that decision
Highlights from early podcasting days, including memorable conferences and media appearances
The significance of sharing dispatch stories for support, inspiration, and therapy
A detailed recap of his last 16-hour shift, final radio transmission, and emotional goodbyes
Reflections on the legacy, growth, and impact made through the Within the Trenches podcast and the #IAM911 movement

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Within the Trenches Ep 662 Jul 23, 2026

Show notes

Episode 662 features Erica, a peer support specialist and CTO with Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority, MI.

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

Erica's journey from the ER to a 13-year dispatch career
Training philosophy: building trust, sharing mistakes, and modernizing the culture
Public education efforts and common 9-1-1 misconceptions
Burnout, boundaries, and the decision to reclaim personal well-being
The shift toward hope, teamwork, and why this profession is still worth saving

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Within the Trenches Ep 661 Jul 15, 2026

Show notes

Episode 661 features a panel discussion from a recent Public Safety Showcase virtual event entitled, "Dispatcher Suicide: Breaking the Silence."

Sponsored by

RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web

Episode topics –

Why dispatcher suicide remains a taboo topic in public safety
What struggle really looks like among dispatchers
Why it's easier for dispatchers to help others than themselves
Practical mental health resources and what truly helps
How agencies and coworkers navigate the aftermath and support survivors

If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.

Within the Trenches Ep 660 Jun 27, 2026

Show notes

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.

Within the Trenches Ep 659 Jun 16, 2026

Show notes

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.

Within the Trenches Ep 658 Jun 10, 2026

Show notes

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.

Within the Trenches Ep 657 Jun 05, 2026

Show notes

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.

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