National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week: Behind the Call with Lt. Heather Hall

April 10-16, 2022, is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, honoring the unseen heroes of 911. Imagine helping in a crisis while being completely blind to the situation—this is the reality for 911 dispatchers.

Lt. Heather Hall, with 20 years of experience at the Kaufman County Sheriff's Office, shares her incredible journey from dispatcher to lieutenant, overseeing the dispatch center. She reveals the tough, often emotional reality of the job, where dispatchers manage people’s worst days, providing comfort and support with just a voice.

In this episode, we explore the calls that test their skills, the emotional toll of burnout, and the crucial difference between calling 911 vs. the admin line. It’s an eye-opening conversation you won’t want to miss.

Let’s show our appreciation for these unsung heroes who are always there when we need them most.

Connect with Jen:
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 Website:
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Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
 https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
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I Need Blue focuses on the drug epidemic in the U.S.

Meet Robbie, who has been in recovery since September 18, 2018. Born into a family plagued by addiction, Robbie faced foster care, an absent mother, and the tragic loss of two loved ones to drunk driving. He shares his journey of survival and the pivotal moment he found Space Coast Recovery.

Barbie Thrower, Executive Director of Space Coast Recovery since 2013, joins Robbie to discuss their shared mission to empower others to choose recovery.

 To learn more about space coast recovery in Brevard County, FL visit: www.spacecoastrecovery.com

Connect with Jen:
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 Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
 https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
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Debra Mayer is a wife and mom. She tragically lost her only son, Shaun, to the disease of addiction. In honor of him,  she spends her time creating awareness about the addiction epidemic while truly focusing on helping others like her son and their families.  

 She is here to share her memories of Shaun and share his struggles which lead to his opioid and eventual heroin addiction which ultimately took his life. Debra is an advocate, a strong and powerful voice who has shared her testimony in from of legislators to create change. 

Here is an alarming statistic During 2020, over 100,000 people in the US died from an overdose. Synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, are now the most common drugs involved in overdose deaths in the US.

Connect with Jen:
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YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/


The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
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February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.

This episode is jam packed with information and resources surrounding teen dating violence/domestic violence. Some topics discussed include:
What is the difference between dating violence and domestic violence?
Why is it so important to reach out and educate our elementary school children?
What advice do you give friends and family who suspect a loved one is being abused?

Providing this preventive and potentially life saving information is Michele Garcia, Program Director for Serene Harbor in Brevard county, FL. Serene Harbor has served Brevard County for 30 years by offering a variety of services to assist survivors of domestic violence.  It is their passion and job to ensure every individual has a safe place they can go to, whether that safe place is with them or somewhere else.
 Serene Harbor:
Educate, Advocate, and Empower

HOTLINE NUMBER: 321-726-8282. 
You can reach our hotline advocates by text, call or TTY, as well as on our website, which is www.SereneHarbor.org.  They have a live chat. and all the platforms to get you to the hotline advocate. They is a certified and trained advocate available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, holidays, hurricanes, it doesn't matter.  They're there to answer every call, regardless of how it comes through. They are trained to assist right then and there.

Connect with Jen:
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https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
 Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
 https://whyisurvived.com/

 The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
https://www.purple-planet.com/
 

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4-Year Anniversary of the Parkland Shooting: A Conversation with Dr. Michele Finneran

Trigger warning: This episode discusses the traumatic events of the Parkland shooting on its 4th anniversary. It’s a deeply emotional conversation about the lasting impact on survivors, teachers, first responders, and the community. If you're not ready, please listen when you feel prepared.

Dr. Michele Finneran, Ph.D., a psychotherapist and mental health advocate, was called upon to support survivors, teachers, and students dealing with the trauma and PTSD following the shooting. Dr. Finneran reflects on the horrific realities these victims faced and how they navigated the overwhelming grief and survivor’s guilt.

On February 14, 2018, a 19-year-old gunman opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, killing 17 and injuring 17 others. The tragedy left an indelible mark on the community. Dr. Finneran shares her personal and professional response to this event and the complex emotional aftermath for those affected.

Connect with Jen:
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 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
 Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
 https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
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Acts of kindness are all around us. Through  bonus episodes, I am dedicating some time to acknowledge them. The first act is: Back Brevard Heroes.

They are a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and appreciating our local first responders, our heroes, with an annual BBQ and other events.
https://www.backbrevardheroes.com/

I had the pleasure of speaking with Sherri Centore, Kimberley Tucker and Tina Herman.  Here is some information about Back Brevard Heroes. 

Mission:    We stand behind those that serve our community in a selfless manner, as our local heroes fight every day to save our lives, protect us, heal us and take care of us. We serve your local Law Enforcement, Firefighters, EMT, and Military.

​Our Vision:   To launch a successful non-profit including all local heroes. Establishing criteria and guidelines to enhance the growth of the organization and the community relationships. To create different divisions dedicated to the support of each individual profession to grow the community awareness.

Our Values:   Demonstrate to all the Brevard Heroes in this county the true love and support they deserve in a simple form of a thank you.  

Connect with Jen:
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 Website:
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Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
 https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
https://www.purple-planet.com/

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Combating Human Trafficking at the US-Mexico Border: Alma Tucker & Andi Buerger’s Stories

This episode features Alma Tucker, founder of the International Network of Hearts Foundation, and Andi Buerger, founder of Voices Against Trafficking. Alma, with over 20 years of experience, advocates for trafficking victims along the US-Mexico border, while Andi, a survivor of child sex trafficking, shares her harrowing story of abuse from ages six months to 17.

Andi reflects on how, as a young child, she considered ending her life but found strength through a message from God. Her journey to healing, understanding, and advocacy is a testament to the power of faith.

Together, they discuss the epidemic of trafficking, what’s happening at the southern border, and how we can all help protect the vulnerable.

International Network of Hearts Foundation:     www.inhearts.org
Voices Against Trafficking:  www.voicesagainsttrafficking.com

Books:
#1 Voices Against Trafficking - The Strength of Many Voices Speaking as One.

https://www.amazon.com/Voices-Against-Trafficking-Strength-Speaking/dp/1733360522/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PVQOU6O4O38K&keywords=voices+against+trafficking+book&qid=1642430660&sprefix=voices+against+%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-1

#2 A Fragile Thread of Hope

https://www.amazon.com/Fragile-Thread-Hope-Survivors-Rescue/dp/1733360506/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3HSB41UN9ZVJR&keywords=a+fragile+thread+of+hope&qid=1642430732&sprefix=a+fragile+thread%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1

Connect with Jen:
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 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
 Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
 https://whyisurvived.com/

 The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
https://www.purple-planet.com/

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Welcome to Season 2 - The refrigerator and I, how my podcast was born.

I thought I would start with one of my guest interviews. I had the honor of sharing my experience on the following podcasts: Law Enforcement Today podcast, What Was That Like podcast, Kill and Tell podcast and Causepods. In this episode, you will hear my half hour episode on Causepods.

"CausePods" is a podcast created to raise awareness for the people who use Podcasts to better their community, society, and the world. The host of "CausePods", Mathew Passy, interviewed me in October.  In the episode I share a quick version of my story followed by a Q& A.

Did I ever see the other survivors again?  Was the robber caught?  How did I deal with knowing the robber had my cell phone, wallet, and ID with my current address? I lived alone, in what ways did this change my behaviors?  What is it like sitting in front of a jury?

How did I learn how to podcast?  Don't be afraid of the process, believe in yourself!
Local networking, business cards, contents, apps. What app blocked me and my messaging?

"Law enforcement" shouldn't be politicized. Policing shouldn't be political.

Connect with me:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/needbluepodcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Website: https://ineedblue.net/

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/i-need-blue/cf77fdb3-396e-4c1c-82aa-c2c3f6d1eee2/ratings-and-reviews

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
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The Silent Epidemic: Law Enforcement Suicides

As of August 21, 2021, 89 U.S. law enforcement officers have died by suicide—a quiet epidemic. Today, we tackle a difficult topic: suicide among officers. Leslie, the surviving spouse of Thomas Forbes (EOW June 6, 2011, Groton City PD), shares her painful journey.

In 2020, the Survivors of Blue Suicide Foundation (SBS) was created to support those left behind. Laurie Putnam, SBS co-founder, joins us to discuss the foundation's mission and resources for survivors.

Leslie shares her love for her late husband and the shock of losing him. “We were living the dream,” she says. Yet, she never saw the signs of his struggle.

Listen as we raise awareness about the urgent crisis within law enforcement and support the SBS Foundation's work to help families like Leslie’s heal.

https://www.survivorsofbluesuicide.org/

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
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YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
 Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
 https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
https://www.purple-planet.com/
 

Support the show

Ryan opens up about his personal experience as a male survivor of domestic abuse, challenging common stereotypes and shedding light on the often-overlooked reality that men can be victims too. His story aims to break the stigma and raise awareness about domestic violence in all its forms, regardless of gender.

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:  
 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
 Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived:  How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
 https://whyisurvived.com/

The background music is written, performed and produced exclusively by purple-planet.com.
https://www.purple-planet.com/

Support the show