Viewpoints by Equature

In this episode, host Cherie Bartram sits down with Dr. Andre Jones to explore leadership in public safety and emergency communications. The conversation centers on a core idea: leadership is a mindset, not just a title. Dr. Jones covers the distinction between managing tasks and shaping culture, the value of strong followership, and how emotional intelligence helps leaders stay resilient. He also emphasizes mentorship, succession planning, and servant leadership — shifting the focus from being in charge to genuinely taking care of your team.

What if the reason you stayed in this career… wasn’t you? In this episode of Viewpoints, Kris Inman joins Cherie Bartram to reflect on the unseen moments that shape a dispatcher’s journey—the people who step in when doubt is at its highest and quietly change everything. From early career struggles to lasting impact, this conversation explores the “unsung heroes” of 911—the ones who see potential before it’s visible, and whose influence carries far beyond a single shift.

What started as a hope for 100 women has exploded into a 15,000-strong movement—and it's changing how women lead in 911. Host Cherie Bartram sits down with Sara Weston, founder of 911der Women, for a candid conversation about building community, breaking barriers, and redefining leadership in emergency communications. Sara shares her unexpected journey into the 911 world, the personal loss that fueled her mission, and why she's creating tangible pathways through leadership academies and mentorship programs. Discover why 70% of dispatchers are women but leadership doesn't reflect it, what "finding your voice" really means in a comm center, and how physical fitness unexpectedly connects to leadership strength. Sara tackles the real barriers keeping women from advancing and reveals how she's helping break through them—because navigating your career shouldn't be a solo mission. Whether you're a dispatcher feeling stuck, a supervisor ready to level up, or a leader passionate about psychological safety, this conversation will leave you energized, validated, and ready to claim your seat at the table. Spoiler: When women in 911 find their power, everyone wins—the professionals, the agencies, and the communities they serve.

Your brain works against you during high-stress calls—but understanding the neuroscience can change everything. Join our host, Cherie Bartram as she sits with Drew Moldenhauer, a leading expert on situational awareness, to explore what happens in your brain when chaos erupts. Learn the three core components of situational awareness and why task fixation, time distortion, and fear derail even experienced dispatchers. He challenges how we train, explains why psychological safety is critical to catching mistakes, and shares practical techniques for managing panicked callers and multitasking under pressure. If you've ever felt tunnel vision during a critical call or wondered how to build a team that supports each other's awareness in real time, this episode delivers the answers. Better situational awareness doesn't just prevent errors—it saves lives

You've done the research, prepared yourself, and landed the promotion—but what happens when theory meets reality? In this final episode of our three-part series, hosts Cherie Bartram and Kerry O'Connell sit down with four experienced leaders who share the truths about their first days, weeks, and months in supervision. From unexpected challenges to the relationships that shift overnight, these candid conversations reveal what no training manual can fully prepare you for. Discover why attitude matters more than aptitude, what veteran supervisors wish they'd done differently, and how the best leaders continue learning long after that first promotion. Whether you're navigating your early days as a supervisor or supporting someone who is, this episode offers the real-world wisdom that only comes from those who've walked the path before you.

In this episode, hosts Cherie Bartram and Kerry O'Connell guide telecommunicators through the journey toward leadership roles in emergency communications. The hosts outline practical preparation strategies centering on the REEPS framework. They discuss a variety of topics within this framework, such as taking relevant classes, interviewing current and former leaders, and reading leadership books to build your foundation—while acknowledging you can't research everything before taking the leap. Join part two of the series as the hosts explore this important topic and remind listeners that career development is cyclical—once you achieve one goal, you start over for the next challenge, continuously growing throughout your public safety career.

The transition from line-level employee to supervisor brings a mix of emotions—excitement, uncertainty, and sometimes fear. Most new supervisors discover they weren't fully prepared for at least one aspect of the journey. Were you caught off guard by something unexpected? Are you considering making the move? Recently promoted and wondering what comes next? Or, like co-hosts Kerry and Cherie, are you looking back thinking "I wish I'd known..."? Join us for this first episode of a three-part series exploring the transition from line-level employee to supervisor—how to prepare for it and what to expect when you get there.

Fear can paralyze us or motivate us. In this episode, our host Cherie Bartram, along with her teenage daughter Riannah, discuss how fear interferes with our personal and professional lives. They also explore how fear has protected them and lifted them to higher elevations. This is a deeply personal episode that combines personal insights with career wisdom - you won't want to miss it!

Resource sharing has been a cornerstone of public safety for years, but successful implementation requires dedication and persistence. Behind-the-scenes work on shared resource projects rarely gets attention—especially when these collaborative efforts involve both large municipal 911 centers and university campus 911 centers. Join us as we talk with Chief Randy Repola and Communications Manager Amber Parvin to discover what it takes to bring these partnerships together and learn about the unique challenges of operating a University 911 dispatch center.

Join our guest Christanna Carrell as we explore the evolving landscape of neonatal care amidst changing marijuana legislation. The podcast explores how different substances affect infants, what the testing and treatment processes are, and how 911 dispatchers might encounter these situations during deliveries or post delivery 911 calls. Share with us as our guest highlights the delicate balance between respecting parental autonomy and protecting the infant's welfare. Finally she expresses her thoughts on the need for more research and public education about prenatal marijuana exposure as legalization continues to spread.

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. Join us as we explore: • The pride and fears these young ones harbor • How they navigate discussions with peers about their parents' unique professions • Their perspective on work-life balance in a demanding field • Unexpected insights that only a child's honesty can reveal Featuring candid conversations with children from various public safety backgrounds, this episode promises both heartwarming moments and profound reflections. Listen as these children share their unfiltered thoughts, offering a fresh perspective on the impact of public service careers on family life. Tune in for an episode that will make you smile, reflect, and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by public safety professionals and their families.

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. Tony emphasizes the vital need for comprehensive training not just for new hires, but as continuing education for experienced personnel. He stresses how proper training prepares responders to handle even the most critical emergencies calmly and effectively by keeping their skills sharp.

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.

Doug Showalter is a renowned public speaker who has spent years enlightening and entertaining public safety professionals. In this podcast episode, Doug delves into the profound impact individuals can make through their work. He elucidates the essence of true leadership, emphasizing that it transcends mere titles and encompasses one's words and actions. Join Doug as he shares insights on leadership applicable not only to public safety organizations but also to private corporations. His wisdom promises to inspire listeners to embrace their role as catalysts for positive change.

Get ready for an insightful and entertaining ride as Traci Brown, world-renowned expert on body language and fraud detection, pulls back the curtain on her globetrotting career. For over 20 years, Traci has traveled to every corner of the world, studying the telling quirks and subtle cues that can reveal when someone isn't playing it straight. This podcast is your backstage pass, where she'll be dishing out jaw-dropping stories and hard-earned wisdom like never before. Whether she's in a packed corporate boardroom or studing someone's body language for a case, Traci has seen it all. Now she's giving you an unfiltered look at the roller coaster of challenges and triumphs that come with being an elite truth spotter. You'll hear untold tales from her strangest assignments and biggest bust-ups with fraudsters. Plus, Traci will reveal the trade secrets that turned her into a modern-day human lie detector, so you too can sharpen your skills at reading body language and sniffing out shadiness.Don't miss this wild, one-of-a-kind podcast taking you inside the high-stakes world of deception detection.

Jim Marshall, CEO of the 911 Training Institute, joins us for an enlightening conversation honoring 911 Emergency Telecommunicators. With a deep reverence for these unsung heroes, Jim shares his personal experiences interacting with PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point) personnel from across the nation. His captivating stories and visionary leadership will fill you with immense pride in the noble career path you've chosen, leaving you yearning for more of his invaluable insights. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to this vital field, Jim's inspiring discourse will reaffirm your commitment to making a positive difference in people's lives. Prepare to be moved, motivated, and filled with renewed enthusiasm for the extraordinary work you and your colleagues undertake every day.

Mississippi Highway Patrol Captain Reed Harrington shares insights on officer safety and training for public safety professionals. Drawing from his experience across various roles, Captain Harrington emphasizes the vital need for robust and ongoing training for 911 dispatchers and officers, starting from the moment they are hired and continuing throughout their careers. He provides perspective on how proper training impacts officer safety and readiness to serve.

Jimmy Perdue brings years of experience with public safety construction projects to the discussion. He joins our host Cherie Bartram to share insights on consolidating PSAPs. Drawing from proven techniques to avoid common pitfalls, they will talk about critical strategies like effectively communicating with all stakeholders throughout the consolidation process in order to ensure successful outcomes.

Join us as we talk with Moe from Moetivations for a transformative discussion on generational differences among PSAP employees. Gain a fresh perspective on the generations working together and the unique challenges each faces. Moe will share an inclusive outlook that moves beyond stereotypes to encourage professionalism across age groups. Learn tips to foster a positive workplace free from generational prejudice. By uniting a mix of experiences, we can build understanding and tap the strengths of all generations represented in the PSAP workforce.

Meet Kelley Cunningham, the 2023 National APCO Director of the Year. Kelley has some amazing processes and events to share that brought her to this shining star moment. Along with her is supervisor Libby Howland (Michigan's 2023 Supervisor of the Year), her employee who nominated Kelley for the award. Libby will share her views on her director and what prompted her to write her nomination for director of the year. Join us and listen to this dynamic duo and discover how Kelley has led her team through new waters while learning how you can write an award-winning nomination!

Prepare to be blown away by Deb Plummer's incredible journey in the world of public safety! This trailblazing leader was remote dispatching long before NG911 was a whisper in our minds. Get ready to be captivated as you dive into her extraordinary story, exploring her transformative impact on her agency's quality assurance, quality improvement, and training programs. You will be left amazed at some of her reveals! Don't miss this astonishing episode!

Fire Chief Craig Miller and Firefighter Chloe Liberatore discuss their paths to becoming firefighters. Chloe recounts her personal journey into the realm of firefighting and expresses her profound gratitude for her colleagues within the department. Meanwhile, her fire chief, Craig Miller, shares his perspective on adapting to change and his positive outlook on incorporating new techniques. Tune in to discover how this department is enthusiastically embracing the opportunities of the future.  

Have you ever wondered about the lives of children in law enforcement families? We often hear about the ones who follow in their parents' footsteps and those who take a different path. But what's the actual experience of growing up in a public safety household like? How does it feel to understand your parents' line of work and the sacrifices they make? In this captivating podcast, you'll discover the insights and advice from four young individuals who've spent their lives alongside parents in the world of public safety, from behind the badges to under the headset.

Curious about the experience of balancing parenthood and a career in public safety? Dive into this podcast where you can listen to firsthand accounts from individuals who have successfully raised their children to adulthood, as well as those who are still in the midst of the journey. Get ready to be entertained by their anecdotes, surprised by their emotions, and gain insights into the unique perspectives and challenges faced by those working in the field, both behind the badge and under the headset.

Have you ever struggled with training? Why was learning fun when you were younger and yet so boring as an adult? Join Doug and Jill Showalter on our podcast to learn how they took the idea of learning is fun and applied some simple techniques into PSAP learning. Doug and Jill encourage each person to put priority on investing in themselves: it's the best investment you can make and will make YOU the "go-to" person! Don't miss this podcast for some great insight on innovative training.

Tracy Eldridge uses humor and blunt honesty when relaying her own experiences in her goal to help others avoid the pitfalls she made in her journey in public safety. "Life is too short to not know how to save one!" and she urges people to look within when using that quote. Join her in our podcast as we listen to Tracy talk about the importance of leadership, knowing your own self, why people-centered leadership is so important (and with a different twist on this topic than you might be thinking!). Tracy will also share why it’s not okay to settle for unhappiness and the importance of investing in YOU! Tracy will entertain and educate you in this one-hour presentation. No matter where you are in your career, this will be a podcast you will want to put on your calendar!

Eric Parry has been a leader in the public safety industry for 50+ years, from the road, to all aspects of 9-1-1, consulting, teaching, his history is impressive. This podcast explores the traits of a leader, how one reacts to mistakes and empowers those around them. This episode will provide those in public safety with examples of where this career can take them, if they choose to walk-the-walk.

Ready to Retire? Or are you thinking it’s time to step down, but you aren’t really ready to let go of that public safety bug that bit you all those years ago? Join our podcast and learn about what Constable Tracy Ward did with the lessons she learned in her career on the road and in the dispatch center. She will talk about how she overcame early chauvinistic challenges and how she set her vision, planning for her the next phases of her career. Her story comes with her surprise realization of her own personal bias that stopped her in her path and prompted her to make changes that impacted hundreds for the better.

Adam Timm is continuing his journey becoming well-known throughout the public safety 9-1-1 world.  This podcast will explore the successes and challenges that Adam has experienced on his journey from the dispatcher to the business owner.  Throughout the episode, Adam offers sound advice and leadership to all those who watch.

Chaplain James Friedman,  husband, father, grandfather, pastor, police officer, business owner, trainer, and friend.  What hasn't this man done!  Chaplain Friedman shares the impact of a Chaplain program for a public safety organization and how to set one up and nurture it.  He also discusses his personal knowledge of autism and the challenges the disorder brings to public safety from 9-1-1 to contact on the street. Chaplain Friedman will make you laugh and make you pause to think about these topics in ways you may have never done before.

Cherie Bartram got a chance to chat with Chief Lillian Bonsignore who served for the FDNY for over 30 years.  She was there when the twin towers were struck, and she has been a pivotal member of the New York Fire Department serving in many capacities throughout her tenure. Chief Bonsignore has accomplished many goals in her career with her simple but powerful philosophy of don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't... As a Chief for FDNY, Chief Bonsignore supervises 41-- EMTs, paramedics, EMS officers, and civilian employees.  Listen to her story as she relays her life lessons, her many firsts, and her plans for her future.  Chief Bonsignore offers several teachable moments throughout the podcast.

Cherie Bartram got a chance to talk with Katie Donovan on her dedication to helping those that are affected by substance abuse and sharing her personal story.  Substance use disorders (SUD) are some of the most highly stigmatized health conditions worldwide. Stigma creates barriers to support the person as well as early intervention, screening, treatment, and effective recovery, particularly in healthcare settings.  This podcast will explore the stigma associated with the family of someone who abuses/uses drugs as well as for the person, who may be labeled because of his/her drug usage. It will provide a deeper understanding for first responders from the perspective of a family who’s been there. This mindset shift will allow responders to wonder compassionately about the situation they are responding and how their words and actions make a powerful impact.  inspire to educate individuals and families about the latest stigma research, as well as equip them with tools to respond. Listeners will learn about the different types of stigma, the social construct of stigma, the importance of using non-stigmatizing language, and innovations to reduce stigma in health and justice settings.

Bryce Tracy has been the Assistant Emergency Manager and 911 Coordinator for Mackinac County, Michigan, for over seventeen years. He began his service to public safety before graduating from high school and continued as a certified firefighter in the early 90’s. Under Bryce’s leadership Michigan’s Upper Peninsula led the way as the Upper Peninsula 911 Authority creating an infrastructure for shared resources across the region, migrating from copper to fiber and linking eight PSAPs together for a virtual consolidation. Bryce is also responsible for the training of several PSAP leaders in Michigan who have gained knowledge and experience implementing MABAS. Bryce humbly shares his vision for Michigan’s 911 PSAPs and his reminders for the industry.

Lori Knight began her career as an RN and found her way to Disneyland as the EMS Manager. Follow along as this “cast member” shares her journey and her most memorable moment at Disney. Learn how she was appointed to the National EMS Advisory Council and how she prepared herself for retirement job.

Harriet Rennie-Brown began her career in 9-1-1 after working in Corrections. She shares her journey and goals in this candid and light-hearted interview. Her valuable, heartfelt advice to all is an added bonus to her audience.

This podcast highlights the unique connection between family members (Steven Leese & Anthony (Tony) Leese; Millie McConnaughey & Cherie Bartram) in public safety.  Watching a parent in the 9-1-1 / public safety career often has the beneficial impact of raising up the next generation to serve the public.  Watch and hear the changes and stories from two families spanning over 40 years in public safety.

Cherie Bartram had a chance to talk with Carl Simpson on his journey in public safety.  Beginning his service to public safety in the private sector enabled Carl to have a strong depth of understanding on what would help those he served, regardless of the capacity he served in.  This podcast will highlight career moves, taking care of PSAP staff, and the challenges that occur with moving technology and legislative changes.

Cherie Bartram had a great conversation with Mel Maier who is the retired Oakland County Captain about NG911, Cyber Security and AI.  Technology changes are occurring at such a rapid pace, it can be a struggle for PSAPs to keep up.  What exactly is the future direction of 911?  This podcast will touch on what is important for PSAPs to know and the technology that is critical for the future. Gain a better understanding of NG9-1-1. Discover why knowing about cybersecurity is so important, and what is the future of AI in the PSAP.

In this episode Zach Vogel and Cherie Bartram enjoyed their time talking with April Heinze.  April discovers the career path of a 911 professional while discussing the challenges and triumphs of this exciting career.  Learn April Heinze’s philosophy on how to pursue a dream career in the 911 profession as well as her vision on the future path of 911.

Zach Vogel and Cherie Bartram had an opportunity to talk with Kathryn Schmelzer.  In this episode learn how Kathryn Schmelzer went from dog groomer to the 2020 Michigan Telecommunicator of the Year and National APCO 2021 Telecommunicator of the year winner.  Discover how she started her career and the beliefs that she has committed to,  that made her a stand-out in the field.  Learn her goals, her views on technology and find out what drives this winner, to make a difference.

Zach Vogel and Karen Gregorcic got an opportunity to talk with veteran Jennifer Kirkland who is the Dispatch Manager of Grand Junction in Colorado about her 20+ years in the PSAP.  In this episode we'll explore the history of dispatchers and develop a communication center that is positioned for continued legacy with all of the new technology and staffing challenges ahead.  Along with practices for recruiting, training, supporting and retaining talent.

Our conversation continues in part 2 with Debbie Condino, Andy Brown, Nicole Plauman, and Lindsey Parton of the Macomb Outreach Program on their approach to the opioid epidemic that is sweeping across the country. We’ll discover the successes they have had with helping the patients and family members by using an advanced view of an opioid call for service.

Macomb County Michigan is taking a new approach to the Opioid epidemic sweeping through the country with the Macomb Outreach Program.  In this two-part Podcast, discover the successes Debbie Condino, Andy Brown, Nicole Plauman and Lindsey Parton have had with helping the patients and family members by using an advanced view of an opioid call for service.