We discuss his journey from public safety to the private sector and the evolution of RapidDeploy, now part of Motorola Solutions. They explore the company’s mission to bring cloud-based technology and innovative tools to emergency communications, highlighting the benefits of new features such as mapping and video, and discuss the recent Motorola acquisition. Wes also shares advice for those considering a career transition, emphasizing the importance of purpose and thoughtful decision-making.
Special thanks to our Hero Sponsor, Squad Life!
Visit www.squad-life.com and tell them Tracy sent you.
Oct 2, 2025
42 min
On Scene First with Tracy Eldridge Episode 52 has dropped. Listen here: https://www.onscenefirst.com/podcast, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!
**Suicide
Tommy shared his journey of overcoming mental health struggles and becoming a mental health advocate, discussing his experiences with therapy and the importance of seeking help. He emphasized the need for better mental health support for first responders and the creation of supportive work environments. Tommy also talked about his upcoming book, "Unseen Battles," which highlights the experiences of first responders and others on the front line of trauma.
Special thanks to our Hero Sponsor, Squad Life!
Visit www.squad-life.com and tell them Tracy sent you.
Mar 8, 2025
41 min
In this episode, Tracy Speaks to Reuben Ramirez, Executive Partner Success Manager at Versaterm. Reuben is dedicated to addressing first responders' challenges, particularly the critical importance of mental health support.
During the conversation, he highlighted the urgent need for a cultural shift towards proactive mental health support within the first responder community. Reuben also introduced the innovative Mind Base platform, designed to bolster the emotional well-being of our heroes.
This discussion underscored the necessity for a cultural transformation to ensure comprehensive mental health support for first responders.
Special thanks to our Hero Sponsor, Squad Life!
Visit www.squad-life.com and tell them Tracy sent you.
Feb 26, 2025
59 min
In this episode, Tracy and Retired Deputy Fire Chief Daniel DeYear, with over 50 years of experience, discuss his career trajectory, the importance of mental health in public safety, and the importance of isolation.
We also discuss the importance of service and community engagement in coping with the stresses of public safety roles.
Special thanks to our Hero Sponsor, Squad Life!
Visit www.squad-life.com and tell them Tracy sent you.
Feb 18, 2025
57 min
Tracy and Brodie Hinckley, Director of the Bureau of Emergency Communications for the Maine Department of Public Safety, talk about the importance of mental health support for dispatchers, including Brody's personal experience seeking therapy.
Brody shares how he brought in a comfort dog named Baxter to support his team.
They also discuss the upcoming Atlantic APCO conference that Brody is chairing.
Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the critical and challenging work that 911 dispatchers do every day.
Special thanks to our Hero Sponsor, Squad Life!
Visit www.squad-life.com and tell them Tracy sent you.
Oct 31, 2024
54 min
On Scene First Ep. 49: Barry Furey, Public Safety Executive
Tracy Eldridge and Barry Furey, Public Safety Executive, discuss the importance of work-life balance and mental health support for first responders, especially during times of crisis like the recent hurricanes. Burnout is a major issue in the 911 industry, with around 80% of centers being understaffed, leading to high stress and overwhelming call volumes. Managers and leaders must proactively check in on their staff's wellbeing, not just immediately after an incident but in the following months. Barry Furey has an extensive background in public safety, including roles as a 911 director in multiple states and as a fire officer.
Special thanks to our Hero Sponsor, Squad Life!
Visit www.squad-life.com and tell them Tracy sent you.
Oct 30, 2024
49 min
I had a WICKED awesome time speaking with one of the owners
of Squad Life. Squad Life is a company owned by law enforcement and army veterans. As the On Scene First merchandise production and distribution partner that provides quality, custom-made products, fundraising and partnership opportunities, and phenomenal customer service, we are thrilled to share them with the rest of our public safety family.
Special thanks to our Hero Sponsor, Squad Life! Visit www.sqaud-life.com and tell them Tracy Sent you.
Oct 1, 2024
47 min
It was great chatting with Deb and passing on a huge thank you to the team at GeoComm for being one of the On Scene First 2023 NPSTW Celebration Event Sponsors. We discussed indoor maps, the z-axis, vertical location, the NENA EPRC, and school safety.
Jul 31, 2023
51 min
On Scene First Ep. 45: Monica Million, Founder, Million Consulting Services, LLC
As a staple in the 9-1-1 space, I was honored to sit down and catch up with Monica. Join us as we discuss the drive and purpose behind her new consulting mission of encouraging understanding and implementing different technological modalities, including AI, in the call-handling process. We also discuss what mental health initiatives look like today and how leadership has a “Duty to act” when our team members struggle. Visit www.millioncs.com and tell her Tracy sent you.”
Jul 13, 2023
41 min
On Scene First Ep. 44: Gordon MacFarlane, Performance Mindset Coach.
As my own coach, it was Coach Gord's training that helped me gain in-depth people-driven knowledge. Join us as we discuss how our paths strategically crossed and the slide that changed everything. As a Human Behavior Specialist and Master Trainer, Coach Gord will share the ins and outs of understanding each other better. I will also share how agencies like Baldwin County, AL use our DISC training to help with their team's interpersonal relationships.
Feb 10, 2023
1 hr 2 min
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