The 911 Collective: What Really Goes On in 9-1-1

It’s National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, and we’re dedicating this special episode to the unseen heroes of emergency response—911 dispatchers! Yasmen and Erika take you behind the scenes of NPSTW, Learn the cool history behind National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, from its 1980s origins to today’s creative celebrations like APCO’s “What’s the Soundtrack of Your Agency?” and NENA’s 9-1-1 Hero Spotlight. we’re diving into the many ways dispatchers are honored. Plus, we’ll share simple ways you can show your appreciation!

Whether you’re in the profession or just want to show support, this episode is all about recognition, appreciation, and giving 911 professionals the spotlight they deserve. Tune in, celebrate with us, and let’s make sure the voices behind 911 are heard!

Not every 911 call is an emergency—some just leave us shaking our heads. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the calls that made us pause and think, Did that really just happen?

From cows in ponds and napping horses to kids calling for homework help and a squirrel in the toilet, we’ve heard it all. We’ll share the stories, clear up common misconceptions about when to call 911, and have a few laughs along the way. Because while emergency dispatching is serious business, sometimes… you just have to laugh.

“911, what’s your emergency?” You need help now, but instead of instantly sending it, the dispatcher keeps asking questions. Why?

In this episode of The 9-1-1 Collective, we’re breaking down why every question matters, how dispatchers send help while gathering details, and why those extra seconds can make all the difference.

Oh, and spoiler: knowing how to ask the right questions isn’t just a dispatcher thing—it’s the way of life too!

🎧 Hit play and find out why every question counts!

Some calls fade with time. Others leave a mark that never really goes away.

In this episode, Erika and Yasmen open up about the calls that changed them—one involving two teenagers in a tragic accident, the other offering a different perspective on resilience and connection. These are the moments that shaped them as dispatchers and as people.

They also dive into how 911 professionals cope with the weight of these calls—whether through humor, peer support, or mental health resources—and why ongoing conversations about dispatcher wellness are so important.

Plus, this week’s Hot Mic Moment raises a big question: Do dispatchers with past personal trauma handle the job differently?

Tune in now for an honest, raw look at the calls that stay with us. 🚨

You’ve probably heard them before—911 always knows exactly where you are, you can text for help anywhere, and dispatchers control how fast responders arrive. But how much of that is actually true?

In this episode, Erika and Yasmen break down some common myths about calling 911. With real stories, a little humor, and the facts behind the fiction, they’ll explain where these misconceptions come from—and what you should do if you come across them. Plus, this week’s Hot Mic Moment dives into the impact of social media myths on 911.

Tune in now to find out what’s real and what’s just a myth! 🚨

This special episode highlights the fight to reclassify 911 dispatchers as first responders. As 911 Goes to Washington takes place, we’re breaking down the 911 SAVES Act, why this change matters, and how it impacts the people behind the calls. Plus, real stories from the headset that prove dispatchers are far more than “administrative support.” Hit play and join the movement!

What really happens when you call 911? It’s not like the movies, and it’s definitely not as simple as you think! In this episode of The 9-1-1 Collective, Erika and Yasmen take you behind the headset—sharing insider tips, breaking down why every question matters, and revealing the organized chaos happening behind the scenes.

Whether you’ve called 911 before or just want to know what really goes on, this episode will change the way you think about emergency dispatch!

The 9-1-1 Collective: What Really Goes On in 9-1-1 pulls back the curtain on emergency dispatching. Hosted by Those 911 Girls, Yasmen Barnett and Erika Lakey, this podcast breaks down the 911 process, debunks common myths, and shares must-know insights about what happens behind the headset. Whether you’re a dispatcher, a family member, or just curious, this podcast will change the way you think about 911. Tune in now and discover the truth behind every call!