Within the Trenches

Episode 644 features a look at the 911 Goes to Washington conference hosted by NENA through, 1st VP, Roxy Van Gundy, Congresswoman Norma Torres, and James, a 911 professional out of NJ.
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Episode topics –
Breakdown of the importance and impact of the 911 Goes to Washington conference.

Updates on the Enhancing First Response Act and the push to reclassify 911 dispatchers as first responders.

Inspiring words from Roxy Van Gundy emphasizing that every dispatcher's voice matters, no matter where they come from.

Recognition of Congresswoman Norma Torres, a former 911 professional, and her ongoing advocacy for emergency communications.

Behind-the-scenes perspectives on meeting representatives, engaging in legislative efforts, and what it's like at a national public safety gathering with James.

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

Episode 643 features Keely, Marketing Contractor with RapidSOS, Ben, VP of Product with RapidSOS, and myself as we cover Most Important Seconds - After the Pitt.
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Episode topics –
Behind-the-scenes of a special HBO Max event honoring first responders and showcasing "The Pit"

Real-world challenges of outages in 911 centers and hospitals, and how new tech is making a difference

The impact of AI and interoperability in public safety, saving precious seconds and supporting understaffed teams

Candid experiences from career dispatchers, EMTs, and product innovators in the emergency services field

How storytelling, technology, and mission-driven teams come together to improve outcomes and save lives

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

Episode 642 features Alora, director at Unacoi 911 out Tennessee.
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RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web
Episode topics –
How Alora got started in public safety and her rapid shift from part-time to full-time dispatcher

The reality of short dispatcher training and surviving the critical early days on the job

Experiences handling traumatic and life-changing emergency calls

Leading her team through the chaos of Hurricane Helene and the unexpected impact on the community

The story of Stella, the dispatch center's emotional support dog, and the positive effect on team morale

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

Episode 641 features Gina, ECC Engagement Manager, w/RapidSOS and 911 professional
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RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web
Episode topics –
Gina's journey from a law enforcement family to a career in dispatch and RapidSOS

Training challenges and early calls that shaped her perspective

Emotional toll and mental health strategies for dispatchers

Memorable stories—both comical and intense—that highlight the dispatch experience

The shift to RapidSOS, technology's role in saving lives, and advice for new dispatchers

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

Ep 640 features Shannon, a 911 professional out of Virginia.
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RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web
Episode topics –
Dispatchers' experiences handling severe winter weather and long shifts

Shannon's unique journey into dispatch and her approach to training new recruits

Emotional challenges and the importance of closure after difficult emergency calls

The viral "trash panda" (raccoon) liquor store incident and how it unfolded from the dispatch perspective

Advice for staying compassionate and positive in a high-stress 911 environment

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