In this episode of Voices of Valor, we sit down with Sara Ladas, a 911 dispatcher, Captain at 911, Dispatch Chaplain, and mom of two, for an honest and meaningful conversation about service, leadership, and compassion behind the headset.

Sara shares what it’s like to be the calm voice on the other end of the line during someone’s worst moment, the responsibility that comes with leading within dispatch, and the unique role of serving as a chaplain for those who answer the calls no one else hears. As a mother and a faith-driven leader, Sara also opens up about how she uses religion as a guiding tool — both in her personal life and in supporting others through crisis, trauma, and loss.

This episode highlights the often-unseen strength of dispatchers, the importance of mental health and peer support, and the role faith and purpose can play in resilience. It’s a powerful reminder that valor isn’t only found in the field — it’s found in the voices that guide help, comfort, and hope when it matters most.