Viewpoints by Equature

Join our host Cherie Bartram as she shares essential insights on preparing and interviewing for a career as an Emergency 911 dispatcher. Drawing from her experience both as a candidate and interviewer, Cherie explores everything from understanding your core motivation to advancing once you've secured the position. She offers personal stories and practical advice that illuminate the unique challenges of the hiring process in emergency services. Whether you're considering this career path or actively pursuing it, this episode provides actionable strategies to help you stand out and succeed in your journey to becoming a 911 dispatcher.

Ever wonder why we sometimes miss the obvious? Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of stupidity – not the lack of intelligence, but the dangerous tendency to overlook crucial information staring us right in the face. In this episode, join Kris Kaull and host Cherie Bartram as we explore the seven sneaky risk factors that sabotage decision-making: rushing, unfamiliar environments, group influence, expert bias, hyper-focus, information overload, and stress. Sound familiar? First responders face these challenges daily! Discover practical strategies to navigate these mental traps and make better decisions under pressure. We'll show you how simply acknowledging these risks is your first step toward avoiding costly mistakes. Listen now to transform how you approach critical decisions – because sometimes the smartest move is recognizing when you're about to do something stupid.

For additional info on the topic: https://fs.blog/how-not-to-be-stupid/

In this episode, we dive deep into the often-overlooked impact of critical incident stress on public safety professionals and first responders. Our guest speaker, Carol Staben-Burroughs, LCPC, a seasoned counselor with decades of experience in trauma and stress management, breaks down the complexities of critical incident stress, from the difference between cumulative and non-cumulative traumatic stress to understanding how these stressors impact performance and well-being.

Carol explains why peer support is vital, acting as the "first line of defense" in preventing and managing stress within the public safety community. Carol's rich background, from her leadership roles in the Montana Board of Behavioral Health to her work with law enforcement and first responders, ensures an insightful and engaging conversation about critical incident stress management. Tune in for a mix of expert knowledge, practical advice, and Carol's signature high-energy style!

In this episode of Viewpoints, host Cherie Bartram sits down with Kris Inman from The Healthy Dispatcher to explore the profound impact of workplace culture and interpersonal interactions within a Communications Center.

Kris and Cherie delve into the critical importance of fostering a respectful and supportive environment where every team member feels valued and heard. They discuss how positive communication and empathetic interactions can significantly improve morale, reduce stress, and enhance overall job satisfaction.

Get ready for a wild ride through Equature's 2024 podcast! Join Kerry and Cherie as they dive into a hilariously nostalgic review that's anything but boring. Our dynamic duo isn't just recapping – they're reliving every memorable moment, and inviting listeners to join their infectious celebration. Expect the unexpected as they bounce between serious reflections and pure comedy gold. Whether they're reminiscing about their favorite episodes or getting completely side-tracked by a random memory, Kerry and Cherie promise a review that's as entertaining as it is heartfelt. So grab your favorite snack, settle in, and prepare to laugh, reminisce, and feel like you're part of the conversation. This isn't just a podcast review – it's a comedy show, a trip down memory lane, and a celebration of the moments that made Equature's 2024 podcast truly unforgettable!

Ever wondered how the children of firefighters, police officers, and paramedics perceive their parents' high-stakes careers? In this eye-opening episode, we delve into the minds of kids aged 5 to 12 (Kasen Kalef, Jackson and Henry Howland, Lauren and Olivia Rushlo, Nathan Bartram) whose parents serve on the front lines of public safety.

In this action-packed episode, leaders from Police, Fire, EMS, and 911 come together to break down the power of the Unified Command system in tackling large-scale, multi-agency incidents. We dive into real-world examples and practical insights, showing why this system is crucial for seamless coordination during complex emergencies. While it doesn’t replace formal NIMS ICS training, this episode gives you a dynamic look at how Unified Command works on the ground—and why it’s essential for public safety success!Public Safety Leaders: Sam Kalef, Jeff White, Jim Etzen, Craig Miller

Staffing shortages are a familiar challenge that often leave managers and hiring supervisors frustrated and searching for answers. In this enlightening podcast, Tina Chaffin offers hope and practical solutions. She encourages listeners to consider whether they might be part of the problem or the solution. You may recognize some of the traits Tina describes in your team, peers, coworkers, and even yourself. Join us to learn about this critical topic and how to implement effective strategies to address staffing shortages.

In our newest podcast episode, we are joined by Tony Harrison, a true veteran in the public safety communications industry. With over 25 years of experience working in PSAPs, serving as a reserve deputy sheriff, and founding his own training company, The Public Safety Group, Tony offers invaluable insights on the paramount role of training for public safety professionals - new and veteran alike.

Marine Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Betcher shares his journey growing up in a public safety family and how it influenced his career with the U.S. Marines as an Air Traffic Controller. He draws parallels between his role and his mother's as a 911 dispatcher, recounting fond memories of family weekends shaped by his father's law enforcement career. The easygoing rapport between Matthew and the host makes for an engaging conversation. But be prepared for heartstring tugs as he reflects on the unique experiences and sacrifices of public safety professions, both in uniform and behind the scenes. His stories offer a poignant appreciation for those who answer the call to serve.