Methods and apparatus for automatically connecting an emergency caller with appropriate responders within an interoperability and collaboration system. According to one aspect of the present invention, a method includes obtaining a request for a response, and identifying a first location from which the request originated. The request is obtained from a source that utilizes a phone and is located at the first location. The method also includes identifying at least one potential responder that may be capable or appropriate for providing the response. Finally, the method also includes creating a virtual talk group that includes the source and the potential responder. The potential responder may listen substantially directly to communications from the source within the virtual talk group using a land mobile radio.