9-1-1 Survival Guide

Not every 9-1-1 call sounds the same. In this episode of 9-1-1 Survival Guide, host Bret Batchelor breaks down the different types of callers that 9-1-1 telecommunicators encounter—from the screamers to the whisperers, the over-explainers to the silent panickers. Bret offers practical tips for dispatchers on how to manage each call type effectively while staying calm and in control. Plus, this epi...

In this episode of 9-1-1 Survival Guide, host Bret Batchelor explores the often-overlooked disconnect between dispatchers and patrol officers. Why does it feel like they’re working in different worlds when they’re on the same team? Join us as we break down communication gaps, unpack common misunderstandings, and offer actionable ways to foster mutual respect, collaboration, and trust between the c...

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Episode 8 of 9-1-1 Survival Guide calls for a powerful mindset shift. Host Bret Batchelor challenges the often negative narrative surrounding the 9-1-1 profession and encourages dispatchers to recognize the meaningful impact they make every day. This episode is a reminder to those behind the headset—and anyone in a high-stress role—that focusing on the po...

Let’s be real—February isn’t easy for everyone. While the world is throwing heart-shaped everything at us, long shifts, heavy calls, and personal struggles can make it tough to feel the love. This episode of 9-1-1 Survival Guide is all about you, your heart, and how to take care of yourself—whether you’re feeling disconnected, dealing with loss, or just trying to get through the day. You’re not al...

In this episode of 9-1-1 Survival Guide, we explore the transformative power of gratitude. Aimed at 9-1-1 telecommunicators but packed with tips anyone can use, we discuss how fostering a thankful mindset can boost resilience, improve mental health, and strengthen team morale. Tune in to learn practical strategies for incorporating gratitude into your daily routine, both on and off the job!

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and in this powerful episode of 911 Survival Guide, Bret is joined by NCT9-1-1 Community Engagement Coordinator and domestic violence expert Nikki Newton. Together, they explore how 9-1-1 plays a crucial role in supporting survivors and discuss the importance of raising awareness. Tune in to learn more about the impact of domestic violence and how you...

Welcome to a new episode of 9-1-1 Survival Guide! This September, in honor of Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month, our 9-1-1 Training Coordinator explores crucial health topics that are often overlooked in the high-pressure world of emergency services. In this episode, we delve into the importance of understanding thyroid health, including the role of the thyroid gland and the significance of early det...

In this episode of the 9-1-1 Survival Guide, Bret Batchelor dives into the challenging yet rewarding world of training to become a 9-1-1 telecommunicator. Ever wondered if your trainer hates you? You're not alone. Bret explores the intense training environment where tough love is often a key component.

In this inaugural episode, we introduce the podcast and its mission to educate, empower, and support 9-1-1 telecommunicators. Whether you're interested in joining the field, new to the job, or a seasoned professional, this episode is for you. We dive into a crucial topic for all telecommunicators: how to effectively handle and learn from constructive criticism. Drawing from personal experiences an...