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Within the Trenches

Code 7 Podcast Network

A podcast based on the experience of being a 9-1-1 dispatcher.

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30 episodes
weekly
Avg 1 hr 11 min
English

Episodes 30

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Tuesday · 1 hr 1 min
Within the Trenches Ep 675
Episode 675 features a solo episode update for big news on Camp Imagine Listening, wellness initiatives, and behind-the-scenes stories from recent travels. This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Vote for me for Top Host here - https://tophost.org/2026/ricardo-martinez-ii Episode topics – Recap of recent podcast episodes, travels, and speaking engagements The story and mission behind Camp Imagine Listening wellness retreat Partnership details with Alex Sheen and the "Because I Said I Would" foundation Plans for funding and launching the first Camp Imagine Listening How you can support through the Top Host competition and future fundraising efforts If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.
October 9 · 1 hr 24 min
Within the Trenches Ep 674
Episode 674 features Mariah, a 911 dispatcher out of the SW part of Indiana. Episode topics – How childhood experiences and early influences led to a career in public safety Challenges and rewards of working in a small-town emergency services environment The realities of 911 call-taking, from life-or-death moments to routine requests The impact of critical incidents and the importance of mental resilience Details about the "Listen Again" initiative focused on improving emergency communication through curiosity and compassion If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.
October 6 · 10 min
Within the Trenches Short Story - I Just Hear Fire
A mother and her nine month old baby were trapped inside a burning apartment. On the other end of the phone was 911 dispatcher, Christina. As the fire moved through the apartment, Christina stayed on the line giving instructions, keeping the caller focused, and trying to be the calm voice she needed in a horrific situation. As the phone went silent, Christina could only hear fire. The call stayed with her long after her shift ended. Years later, she finally had the opportunity to speak with the woman whose voice she had never forgotten. What the caller told her brought the story full circle. This story comes from Christina's conversation on Within the Trenches Episode 673, where she shares her journey in 911, training the next generation of dispatchers, peer support, and the calls that stay with us. Within the Trenches - True stories from the 911 dispatchers who live them is a podcast based on the experience of being a 911 professional. Each episode will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. Subscribe for more stories from 911 heroes like Christina. #911dispatcher #firstresponders #WithinTheTrenches #IAM911 #podcast
October 2 · 1 hr 22 min
Within the Trenches Ep 673
Episode 673 features Christina, a peer support specialist, and 911 professional at Cary PD in NC. This episode is sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Christina's career path from detention officer to long-time 911 dispatcher and part-time firefighter Differences in working at county versus city dispatch centers How serious calls and daily chaos impact mental health and the value of wellness practices Mentoring, tough calls, and the importance of peer support in the dispatch community Christina's powerful personal stories, including handling a life-changing fire emergency and family health struggles, and what she's learned along the way If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.
September 24 · 1 hr 26 min
Within the Trenches Ep 672
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.
September 16 · 1 hr 25 min
Within the Trenches Ep 671
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.
September 11 · 1 hr 28 min
Within the Trenches Ep 670
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.
September 2 · 1 hr
Within the Trenches Ep 669
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.
August 28 · 1 hr 42 min
Within the Trenches Ep 668
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.
August 19 · 1 hr 29 min
Within the Trenches Ep 667
Episode 667 features Jen, a Dispatch Coordinator with Cass County Sheriff's Department, MI. Sponsored by RapidSOS - Facebook | LinkedIn | X | Web Episode topics – Jen's early influences and journey into public safety dispatching Evolution of technology and the dispatch center, from dot matrix printers to gaming monitors Handling critical and emotionally challenging calls and their long-term impact The importance of mentorship, humility, and celebrating wins in the dispatch center Navigating retirement, identity, and mental health in a demanding 911 career If you have any comments or questions or would like to be a guest on the show, please email me at wttpodcast@gmail.com.
August 12 · 1 hr 37 min
Within the Trenches Ep 666
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.
August 7 · 47 min
Within the Trenches Ep 665
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.
July 29 · 1 hr 9 min
Within the Trenches Ep 664
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.
July 24 · 49 min
Within the Trenches Ep 663
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.
July 23 · 1 hr 31 min
Within the Trenches Ep 662
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.
July 15 · 1 hr 17 min
Within the Trenches Ep 661
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.
June 27 · 1 hr 17 min
Within the Trenches Ep 660
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.
June 16 · 1 hr 13 min
Within the Trenches Ep 659
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.
June 10 · 47 min
Within the Trenches Ep 658
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.
June 5 · 45 min
Within the Trenches Ep 657
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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