Welcome back to The Director's Dispatch for Season Two! In this episode, John Barney and Hilton Chapman dive into the powerful theme of "leading without a title" and what that means in today’s evolving 911 environment. They’re joined by special guest Abigail Pestitti—a rising public safety telecommunicator—who shares her unexpected entry into the field, her growth over the past year, and how she's already becoming a mentor to others. The team gets real about mentorship, growth, and the value of relationships in the dispatch center. This episode is packed with raw stories, leadership insights, and a fresh perspective from the floor. If you're ready to challenge what leadership looks like in public safety, this episode is your starting point.

This one’s personal. In this episode of The Director’s Dispatch, John Barney and Hilton Chapman kick things off with a big announcement—John’s new book, Lead Young, is officially out. But more importantly, they dive into the real conversations that matter in 911 leadership.

From National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week to the everyday grind behind the headset, this episode is all about accountability, culture, and showing up—even when it’s hard. John and Hilton break down why silence isn’t neutral, how small things become big problems when ignored, and what it truly means to lead with consistency over credit.

They talk about the realities of dispatcher life, the weight leaders carry, and why being present matters more than pizza parties. This episode will challenge you, push you, and remind you why your voice—and your leadership—matters.

In this powerful and raw episode of The Director’s Dispatch, John and Hilton dive into the “Let ‘Em Theory” — a mindset shift about not letting negativity define your direction. From leadership challenges, public perception, and growing pains, to cough attacks and flamingo shirts, this episode is a real-talk rollercoaster. Learn how to handle disrespect, redirect energy, and lead with purpose — even when the room is full of noise. Plus, some awkward silences and fainting goats. Yeah, it gets deep and funny.