Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wildland Fire Spouses

01:55 Understanding the Unique Challenges of Wildland Fire Families

02:33 Introduction to Wildland Fire Life

05:04 The Unique Challenges of Wildland Fire Families

07:44 Communication and Reintegration During Fire Season

10:43 Navigating Step-Parenting in a Fire Family

13:12 The Impact of Home Stress on Firefighters

15:39 Understanding Wildland vs. Municipal Firefighting

18:11 Creating Community and Support for Fire Wives

19:25 The Importance of Financial Literacy for Fire Families

21:58 Future Aspirations and Legacy in the Fire Service

28:34 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (7).mp4

Resources & links:

• The Firewife's Guide to Staying Whole - real tips for keeping yourself together during fire season
• Wildland Fire Family Financial Playbook - how the pay actually works and how to plan around it
• Follow Faith — The Wildland Fire Wife
• The Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act
• ​Follow @carryonfirefamily on instagram 

keywords

wildland fire wife, firefighter spouse, fire season, step-parenting, fire service, emotional resilience, financial planning, fire community

 Thanks for being here, and for standing with the fire families who hold the line for all of us. ​Carry On.  

takeaways

Motivation is fleeting; architecture is sustainable.

Relationships require intentional access and boundaries.

Healing from past trauma is essential for growth.

High-capacity careers demand structural support, not just effort.

Living intentionally involves managing money, time, and energy.

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Architecture Over Motivation

05:01 Unlearning Outdated Models

08:16 Transitioning to Paramedicine

12:56 High Capacity Careers and Their Challenges

16:38 Building Supportive Structures in Relationships

21:38 Intentional Living and Access Management

25:28 Building a Life Worth Living

25:40 The Impact of Social Media on Relationships

27:27 Breaking Bad Habits and Patterns

29:05 Understanding Trauma Bonds

30:41 Choosing Happiness Over Unhappiness

32:20 The Rich Method: Intentional Living

35:06 Cultivating Growth in Life

37:43 Finding Harmony and Harvest in Life

40:39 Creating a Lasting Legacy

46:24 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (7).mp4

resources

Felicia Kelly’s Website - https://feliciakelly.com

Rich Method for Living Course - https://feliciakelly.com/rich-method-reset

Felicia Kelly’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/feliciakelly

Felicia Kelly’s TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@feliciakelly

Carry On Fire Family Instagram - https://instagram.com/carryonfirefamily

Carry On Fire Family website- carryoncarrion.com

In this episode, we get deep into the essentials of leadership in fire services, the pitfalls of current promotion systems, and how to truly prepare for leadership roles. With Mike from Front Seat Academy, we explore how capable firefighters are often unfairly filtered out and how leadership should be about influence, not rank.

Timestamps:

00:00 - The danger of lack of leadership versus skills in the firehouse
00:30 - Why many firefighters struggle with leadership roles
01:00 - The pitfalls of current promotional testing focused on memorization
01:50 - How influence, not rank, defines true leadership
03:00 - Early signs of a crew being off and disengaged
04:00 - Impact of poor culture and how it affects performance
05:00 - Why training for promotion often neglects emotional intelligence and leadership
06:00 - The current state of firefighter training and what needs to change
07:00 - The role of mentorship and leadership from probation to advanced ranks
08:00 - How to foster leadership at every level from the firehouse
09:00 - Building confidence and influence through meaningful engagement
10:00 - Practical modifications to firefighter exams and promotion criteria
11:30 - The importance of experience in real leadership settings
12:30 - Encouraging younger firefighters to develop leadership early
13:30 - The false narrative of leadership styles and the importance of authenticity
14:30 - The impact of organizational culture on leadership quality
15:30 - Recognizing and overcoming institutional trauma and complacency
16:30 - Cultivating a culture of adaptability and humility
17:30 - How to navigate the complexities of modern fire service leadership
18:30 - The significance of visibility and presence in leadership roles
19:30 - How to measure true leadership qualities beyond tests and ranks
20:30 - Practical tips for firefighters aspiring to leadership positions
21:30 - The role of spouses and family support in leadership journeys
22:30 - Creating pathways for leadership development beyond traditional training
23:30 - The importance of early engagement and continuous growth
24:30 - How to reframe leadership as service, not authority
25:30 - The future of fire service promotion and leadership: Innovation and integrity
26:30 - Final thoughts from Mike on creating lasting impact

Resources & Links:

• Front Seat Academy
• Mike Front Seat Academy on Instagram
• Carry On Fire Family on Instagram
• James Kars and Simon Sinek - Finite and Infinite Games

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Thinline Collective and Guests

00:20 The unique challenges faced by first responder families

01:37 Building a community of support and understanding

03:19 Insights on marriage and family life in first responder careers

05:12 The importance of mental health and self-care

07:18 Supporting spouses through difficult times and calls

09:11 The need for community and peer support for wives

11:11 Creating positivity and shared experiences

13:19 Bridging the gap between first responders and their families

15:15 The role of department culture and family inclusion

17:02 Upcoming in-person event and community gathering

19:10 The legacy and impact of supportive family life

21:05 Final thoughts and encouragement for first responder families

Resources

Thinline Collective Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thinline_collective/

Eventbrite - First Responder Spouses Event - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-responder-spouses-event-tickets-123456789

guest links

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thinline_collective/

https://www.instagram.com/carryonfirefamily/

CarryonCarrion.com

First responder families, support, community, mental health, fire and police spouses, resilience, positivity, family dynamic, peer support, in-person event

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Amanda's Background

01:06 Entering the Fire Service as a Woman

02:24 Workplace Culture and Harassment Issues

05:06 Balancing Motherhood and a Firefighting Career

07:50 The Role of Faith and Mental Health

10:36 Dealing with Discrimination and SOPs

12:58 Building Confidence and Personal Strengths

15:53 Support Systems and Family Dynamics

18:23 The Importance of Professionalism and Respect

20:57 Advice for Wives and Families of Firefighters

23:42 Amanda's Legacy and Future Goals

resources

Carry On Fire Family - carryoncarrion.com

Instagram: @carryonfirefamily

Women in Fire Conference - https://www.womeninfireconference.com

Fire Department SOPs - https://www.firedeptguidelines.com

Amanda's Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-firefighter

guest links

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-firefighter

female firefighter, workplace culture, harassment, resilience, motherhood, faith, mental health, fire department, gender equality, leadership

Resources

Fire Engineering Books - https://fireengineeringbooks.com

Nichole ODonnell's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thesaltyrookie/

Nichole ODonnell's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thesaltyrookie

Carry On Fire Family's instagram -

https://www.instagram.com/carryonfirefamily/

Key topics

Nichole ODonnell’s journey from adversity to firefighting

The importance of grit, resilience, and discipline

Impact of social media on personal growth and community building

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Purpose

00:14 Nichole’s Background and Early Life

00:22 Dealing with Past Mistakes and Public Apology

00:27 The Meaning of Grit and Proving People Wrong

01:03 Navigating Toxic Political Climate and Personal Growth

01:06 Nichole’s Diverse Life Experiences and Building Resilience

01:15 Rebuilding Identity Through Firefighting and Faith

01:57 Social Media’s Role in Public Image and Redemption

02:37 The Power of Forgiveness and Personal Change

03:40 Reflections on Social Media and Personal Growth

04:27 The Role of Grit in Overcoming Childhood Challenges

05:30 Developing Grit Through Hardship and Fire Service

06:51 Fire Service as a Life-Changing Force

07:21 Running a Critical Call and Its Impact

08:07 Writing 'Diary of a Probie' and Mentorship

08:37 Learning from Criticism and Slowing Down

09:42 Balancing Work and Personal Life

10:46 Dealing with Bets and Expectations in Firefighting

11:37 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Achieving Success

13:12 Handling Negative Comments and Envy

14:47 The Role of Success and Haters

15:53 Firefighter Traits and Adrenaline Activities

16:38 Motorcycle Racing and Adrenaline Pursuits

17:29 Facing Fears and Building Courage

21:12 Firefighting’s Impact on Rebuilding Life

22:11 The Power of Kindness and Impact on Others

23:37 The Importance of Community and Support

24:17 Maintaining Work-Life Balance and Preventing Burnout

29:04 Building a Supportive Community on Social Media

30:42 The Origin of 'Salty Rookie' and Community Building

33:09 Nichole’s Legacy and Future Goals

36:25 Final Thoughts and Advice for Listeners

37:21 Closing Remarks and How to Connect with Nichole

Keywords

firefighter, resilience, social media, motivation, mental health, community, grit, personal growth, leadership, fire service

In this episode of Carry On Fire Family, host Audra sits down with Elise Vermillion, seasoned fire wife and author of The Firewife Guidebook, a guidebook for fire spouses, to unpack the emotional realities of life in a fire family.

From long shifts and missed holidays to the loneliness that no one prepares you for, Elise shares what it really means to love someone in the fire service.

Together, they explore:

• The emotional learning curve of becoming a fire spouse
• Why isolation is more common than people admit
• How to build strong community within fire families
• Practical meal planning systems that actually work with shift life
• Coping strategies for loneliness and unpredictability
• The importance of regular “State of the Union” relationship check-ins
• How to strengthen communication when schedules don’t align

This conversation is honest, validating, and deeply practical offering support for fire wives, fire spouses, and anyone navigating the unique dynamics of first responder family life.

If you’ve ever felt alone in this lifestyle, this episode reminds you: you’re not.

To order a copy of Elise's ebook The Firewife Guidebook CLICK HERE

Follow Audra on Instagram @carryonfirefamily

Follow Elise on Instagram @thefirewifeguide

Keywords

fire family, fire wife, support, community, emotional learning curve, meal planning, reintegration, coping strategies, motherhood, guidebook

We cover:

• Retirement planning for first responders
• Understanding pension options
• The emotional side of money decisions
• Small steps that build real financial confidence
• Why community and legacy matter more than numbers

Whether you’re a firefighter, police officer, EMT, or part of a first responder family, this episode will help you feel more informed, less stressed, and more confident about your financial future.

Follow @carryonfirefamily on instagram

carryoncarrion.com

For more details on Inner Gold Taxes click here: https://innergoldtaxes.com/

Books mentioned:

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/soulful-simplicity-courtney-carver/1126091518

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Financial Clarity

04:40 Navigating Retirement Planning

10:36 The Importance of Communication in Finances

16:17 Understanding Pension Choices

22:05 Taking Small Steps Towards Financial Confidence

27:38 Building Community and Legacy

Financial Planning Retirement Readiness Tax Services InnerGold Taxes Courtney Carver Soulful Simplicity First Responder Families Financial Clarity Life Insurance

Community Support Firefighter Spouses Long-term Investments Financial Empowerment Enrolled Agent

Tax Strategy

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, I’m joined by Rachael Heard, the widow of Captain Kyle Heard of the Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District. Rachael shares her story of losing Kyle suddenly to a heart attack at just 43, and the unimaginable grief that followed. She opens up about raising their two children without their father, navigating a new identity after loss, and the weight of continuing on when life changes in an instant.

We also talk about the overwhelming support from the fire service community and Kyle’s passion for firefighter health and wellness a mission that feels even more urgent in the wake of his passing. This episode is an honest conversation about love, loss, resilience, and the importance of prioritizing health in the fire service. Rachael’s strength and dedication to honoring Kyle’s legacy make this a must-listen for first responders, their families, and anyone touched by grief.

For more information about The 6 Foundation and Clinic visit their website: https://www.the6.us/ or instagram @the6clinic

For more about Audra visit carryoncarrion.com and for more fire family content follow her on IG @carryonfirefamily

Takeaways

Grief doesn't get easier; it evolves over time.

Community support is crucial during times of loss.

Health and wellness should be prioritized in the fire service.

It's important to advocate for mental health in first responders.

Creating a legacy involves turning grief into action.

Keywords

grief, fire service, health and wellness, first responder families, community support, widowhood, mental health, legacy, heart attack, fire department

Follow @carryonfirefamily and @avfoundation on instagram for more.

Takeaways

Caylie Valenta is a widow of firefighter Andy Valenta, who died from melanoma.

She co-founded the Andy Valenta Melanoma Foundation to provide cancer screenings for firefighters.

Caylie emphasizes the importance of early detection of skin cancer.

The foundation has screened over 2,300 firefighters and saved lives through early detection.

Caylie's journey highlights the challenges of being a solo parent after losing a spouse.

She advocates for better cancer screening practices in fire departments.

Caylie's story serves as a powerful reminder of the risks firefighters face.

The support from the fire department has been crucial for Caylie and her daughters.

Caylie hopes to leave a legacy of strength and resilience for her children.

She encourages open conversations about death and preparation for families in high-risk professions.

Chapters:

00:00 The Journey of Loss and Resilience

08:54 The Foundation's Mission and Impact

18:09 Legacy and Support for Families

25:02 Navigating Grief and Moving Forward

Keywords

firefighter, cancer screening, melanoma, widow, resilience, foundation, legacy, support, grief, health

I open up about how hyper-independence showed up in my relationship, how our marriage evolved over time, and the realities of being married to a firefighter; the long stretches of holding it all together alone, the unspoken expectations, and the emotional weight that comes with loving someone in this career.

I talk about vulnerability, communication, and what growth really looks like when you’re navigating a first responder marriage. I also touch on the anticipatory anxiety and quiet grief that so many fire spouses live with but rarely say out loud.

This episode is part reflection, part release, and part thank-you to everyone who has listened, supported, and shared this space with me. I’m deeply grateful for this community and excited for what’s next in the podcast and the conversations still to come. 🔥🤍

Follow me on instagram @carryonfirefamily or subscribe to my website carryoncarrion.com and get a freebie meal plan download!

Takeaways

• I've had the worst imposter syndrome.
• Marriage looks different every five years.
• Hyper-independence is a defense mechanism.
• Fire spouses often become the default parent.
• Anticipatory anxiety is common among fire spouses.
• Vulnerability is key in relationships.
• Communication is essential for growth.
• Balancing podcasting and family life is challenging.
• Gratitude for support and community.
• Excitement for future podcasting endeavors.

Keywords

solo podcasting, fire family life, hyper-independence, marriage evolution, anticipatory anxiety, fire spouses, vulnerability, communication, personal growth, podcasting challenges

In this episode, I sit down with licensed marriage and family therapist Talia Bombola to talk openly about what firefighter families actually go through. We break down:
✔️ How 24/48 or 48/96 schedules impact parenting
✔️ Navigating co-parenting after divorce in a first responder family
✔️ Managing blended families and step-parent roles
✔️ Reducing power struggles and improving communication
✔️ How to validate your kids’ emotions when life feels unstable
✔️ Supporting children of first responders through stress and transitions

Whether you’re married to a firefighter, going through a divorce (maybe you've considered or are currently considering it), or trying to rebuild a healthier co-parenting relationship, this conversation offers real insight, practical tools, and heartfelt encouragement.

If you’re looking for support, validation, or a reminder that you’re not alone in this lifestyle this episode is for you.

Follow me for more fire family content and subscribe to my website for a free 5 day meal plan download. carryoncarrion.com Or for daily laughs and tips on instagram @carryonfirefamily

Check out Thalia's website www.therapywithtalia.com if you are considering divorce, already divorced and need help with your co parenting plan, or you just need to talk to someone. She's in CA for in person and zoom sessions. You can also find her on instagram @taliabombola

Takeaways

Co-parenting in first responder families is complex due to unpredictable schedules.

Stepparents should be integrated thoughtfully into the co-parenting dynamic.

Resentment often arises from the unequal distribution of responsibilities post-divorce.

Effective communication is crucial for successful co-parenting arrangements.

Consistency in routines helps children adjust between two households.

Children's emotions should be validated without bashing the other parent.

Maintaining a connection with first responder parents is essential for children.

Power struggles can be minimized through clear communication and agreements.

Understanding the unique stressors of co-parenting can help manage expectations.

Seeking therapy can provide support and guidance during co-parenting transitions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Co-Parenting Dynamics

03:00 Challenges of Co-Parenting in First Responder Families

06:10 Navigating Stepparent Relationships

08:57 Dealing with Resentment and Emotional Struggles

12:05 Communication Tools for Effective Co-Parenting

14:57 Building Consistency Between Homes

17:57 Validating Children's Emotions

21:04 Maintaining Connection with First Responder Parents

23:58 Avoiding Power Struggles in Co-Parenting

27:00 Understanding the Stressors of Co-Parenting

29:46 Final Thoughts and Resources

Keywords

co-parenting, first responder families, emotional struggles, communication tools, children's emotions, consistency, power struggles, resentment, family dynamics, therapy

Mike also dives into the inspiration behind his sunglasses brand, designed specifically for first responders and the innovative features that set them apart. Throughout the conversation, he gets honest about burnout, the importance of support systems, and the major cultural shifts happening in the fire service today.

This is a candid, thoughtful look at identity, entrepreneurship, and the evolving reality of life on the front lines.

Takeaways:

• Mike’s fascination with emergency services started early, shaping a lifelong pull toward serving others.
• He spent nearly five years as a fire medic, gaining firsthand experience on the front lines before deciding to step away.
• COVID-19 hit fire departments hard, causing staffing shortages, burnout, and a major dip in morale across the industry.
• Mike built Frontline Optics while still working 24-hour shifts, proving you can grow a business even in the thick of chaos.
• His sunglasses are purpose-built for first responders — durable, functional, and designed to actually hold up to the job.
• Family was a driving force in his career pivot, and he’s intentional about being present for his kids.
• He stresses the critical need for mental health support, especially for first responders exposed to continuous trauma.
• Working with a life coach helped him see his next step clearly, turning uncertainty into direction.
• The fire service is facing real financial and operational challenges, making it harder than ever for departments to keep up.
• Mike sees Frontline Optics becoming a major brand in the first responder community, not just a side project — a full-scale, mission-driven company.

Shop https://frontlineoptics.com/ Use code CARRYON15 for a discount at checkout.

Black Friday deal going on now!

30% off or spend $140 and get 40% off now through Thursday at midnight!

Follow @frontlineoptics and @carryonfirefamily on Instagram.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey of First Responders

00:52 Transitioning from Frontline to Entrepreneurship

01:15 From Fire Medic to Entrepreneur: A Journey Begins

06:28 The Impact of COVID-19 on First Responders

12:35 Building a Sunglass Business: The Birth of Frontline Optics

15:44 Balancing Family Life and Entrepreneurship

18:10 Mental Health Awareness for First Responders

23:33 Navigating Burnout and Finding Clarity

26:04 The Changing Landscape of the Fire Service

29:24 The Future of Frontline Optics and Legacy Building

32:49 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (7).mp4

Keywords

firefighter, entrepreneur, mental health, COVID-19, first responders, sunglasses, burnout, family, business, legacy

They explore:

• The invisible grief that comes with missed moments, long shifts, and constant worry
• How chronic stress impacts marriages, mental health, and family dynamics
• Why so many fire spouses feel guilty for struggling — and why they shouldn’t
• The emotional load Fire Life brings into the home
• Why open conversations, community, and department-level change matter
• Practical ways spouses can cope, stay grounded, and feel less alone
• The legacy they hope to leave for future generations of fire families

Whether you're a fire spouse, part of a first responder family, or someone wanting to better understand the emotional reality behind the uniform, this episode will help you feel seen, validated, and understood.

Follow Audra @carryonfirefamily and subscribe to carryoncarrion.com to get a free week of meal plans! Follow Brittany @brittanythomasvestal_lcsw or visit her website brittanythomasvestal.com

Keywords

fire spouse grief, firefighter family mental health, fire wife support, first responder family dynamics, coping strategies for fire spouses, emotional load of fire families, firefighter marriage challenges

Together, they explore the power of authentic community, emotional resilience, and self-care, and how letting go of resentment can make room for deeper connection. Christina’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every first responder is a family building a legacy of care, courage, and connection.

Follow @carryonfirefamily on instagram for more fire family content and Christina @bluejean_mama subscribe to carryoncarrion.com for more fire family content.

Takeaways

Christina's journey as a fire wife began when her husband moved to Nevada to pursue his dream.

The challenges of being a first responder spouse include managing family life during long shifts.

Building a supportive community is crucial for mental health and well-being.

Christina emphasizes the importance of asking for help and not being afraid to reach out.

Balancing work and family life requires flexibility and understanding from both partners.

Authenticity in sharing experiences helps create genuine connections with others.

Wellness practices, such as taking supplements, have significantly improved Christina's energy levels.

Creating a strong community among fire families can help alleviate feelings of isolation.

Christina's legacy is rooted in caring for others and fostering connections.

It's essential to let go of resentment and focus on the present moment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

04:37 Life as a Firefighter's Spouse

07:26 Building a Support Network

10:32 Managing Family Dynamics and Work

13:34 The Importance of Authenticity

16:29 Practical Life Hacks for Solo Parenting

24:18 Emergency Preparedness for Families

26:38 Wellness and Self-Care as a Fire Wife

31:51 Community and Support in the Fire Service

35:48 Legacy and Authentic Connections

43:18 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (7).mp4

Keywords

firefighter spouse, motherhood, community support, wellness, authenticity, work-life balance, parenting, fire family, mental health, self-care

They talk about the reality of balancing motherhood and career when life doesn’t follow a predictable shift schedule, why community is non-negotiable, and how self-care isn’t selfish, it’s survival. You’ll walk away feeling seen, inspired, and maybe ready to rethink what “getting dressed” can actually do for your mindset.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Who am I outside of being Mom?” or you’re part of the fire wife community looking for connection and truth this one’s for you.

Follow @carryonfirefamily for more on fire family life and Britt DAndrea at @britt.marianna.style on Instagram

Subscribe to Carry On Fire Family on Youtube and subscribe to our website carryoncarrion.com

Takeaways

Brittany emphasizes the importance of community support for fire families.

The unpredictability of a firefighter's schedule can be challenging for families.

Postpartum depression can significantly impact a woman's identity and self-image.

Fashion can serve as a tool for self-expression and confidence, especially for postpartum women.

Brittany encourages women to embrace their changing bodies and styles as they evolve.

The conversation highlights the need for self-care and prioritizing one's own needs.

Brittany shares her journey of finding joy through style after experiencing postpartum depression.

Resilience and providing tools for the next generation are key themes in Brittany's legacy.

The importance of being a supportive partner in a fire family is emphasized.

Brittany's experience shows that it's okay to ask for help and lean on others.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding FireFamily Life

04:31 The Surprising Challenges of FireWife Life

07:27 Navigating Identity and Career Changes

10:38 The Role of Community and Support

12:35 Fashion as a Tool for Joy

15:21 Balancing Motherhood and FireFamily Responsibilities

18:16 Legacy and Resilience for Future Generations

38:29 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (7).mp4

Follow @carryonfirefamily for more on Instagram

Check out carryoncarrion.com for more fire family life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Coffee Talk

02:41 Career Journey and Family Life

04:27 Navigating Parenthood and Pregnancy Challenges

07:39 Postpartum Experience and Mental Health

11:58 Second Pregnancy and Complications

17:50 Coping with Trauma and Seeking Help

20:47 The Importance of Seeking Help

22:54 Navigating Mental Health in First Responders

23:46 Sharing Birth Stories and Experiences

25:45 Pregnancy and Birth During COVID-19

27:23 The Impact of Firefighter Life on Family Dynamics

30:26 Building a Supportive Community

33:09 Self-Care Practices for Busy Parents

35:08 Leaving a Legacy of Mental Health Awareness

Takeaways

Kristen emphasizes the importance of asking for help during tough times.

She shares her experiences with postpartum anxiety and depression.

The impact of COVID-19 on her pregnancies was significant and challenging.

Building a supportive village is crucial for fire families.

Self-care is a non-negotiable for maintaining balance in life.

Kristen highlights the need for culturally competent therapists for first responders.

She discusses the importance of communication between partners in a fire family.

The trauma of her birth experiences led to PTSD flashbacks.

Kristen believes in breaking generational cycles of mental health stigma.

She encourages others to prioritize their mental health and seek therapy.

fire family, mental health, postpartum anxiety, COVID pregnancy, self-care, support systems, motherhood, first responders, therapy, family dynamics

They talk stigma, self-awareness, and what’s changing as new generations of first responders demand more accessible, human-centered mental health care. You’ll also hear insights on ethical boundaries, training gaps, and what both fields can learn from each other as the mental health landscape evolves.

If you’ve ever wondered “Do I need a coach or a therapist?” or how we can better support those who run toward the chaos, this conversation is for you.

Follow @onbeingresilient for more from Destiny or visit her website https://www.destinymorristherapy.com/

Follow @carryonfirefamily on Instagram or visit our website carryoncarrion.com

Our listeners and subscribers ca use an exclusive discount on Destiny's course for partners of first responders: https://www.destinymorristherapy.com/fire-season-survival-partners-1 Carryon10 for 10% off.

Takeaways

Therapy requires extensive training and credentialing, while coaching does not.

Coaching is future-focused, while therapy often delves into past traumas.

Therapists have ethical guidelines that coaches may lack.

Cultural competence is crucial for therapists working with first responders.

Stigma around therapy still exists in many first responder communities.

Younger generations are more open to discussing mental health.

Self-diagnosing based on social media can be dangerous.

Therapists should be trained in trauma modalities to effectively help clients.

Dark humor is a coping mechanism for first responders but should be balanced with addressing real feelings.

Finding culturally competent therapists is essential for effective treatment.

Chapters

00:00 Journey to Therapy: Destiny's Story

04:08 Understanding Therapy: Definitions and Differences

07:09 Coaching vs. Therapy: Key Distinctions

09:53 Red Flags in Coaching and Therapy

13:00 The Role of Dark Humor in Therapy

15:30 Cultural Competence in Therapy for First Responders

17:56 Breaking the Stigma: Therapy in First Responder Communities

21:05 Generational Shifts in First Responder Mental Health

23:50 Legacy and Impact: Destiny's Vision

26:22 Resources for Finding Culturally Competent Therapists

36:22 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (4).mp4

They talk about burnout (yep, even the helpers need help), compassion fatigue, and why peer support isn’t optional anymore. Spencer opens up about his own mental health journey and the story behind starting Mando Medic a space for no-BS mental health education that actually makes sense to people on the front lines.

It’s an honest conversation about resilience, redefining strength, and what it really takes to carry the weight of helping others… without losing yourself in the process.

Follow @mandomedic and @carryonfirefamily on instagram for more.

Takeaways

Mental health is crucial for first responders.

Burnout can have serious consequences if not addressed.

Compassion fatigue can sneak up on individuals.

Creating a supportive environment is essential for recovery.

It's important to recognize the signs of burnout early.

Peer support can be a valuable resource.

Self-awareness is key to managing mental health.

The younger generation is prioritizing mental health more.

It's okay to leave a job if it makes you miserable.

Resilience is a strength that can be cultivated.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mental Health in First Responders

00:58 Spencer's Journey and Peer Support Insights

01:29 Introduction and Career Updates

03:54 Reflections on Turning 30

06:31 Understanding Burnout and Its Risk Factors

09:06 Strategies for Managing Burnout

11:57 Compassion Fatigue and Its Impact

14:46 The Motivation Behind Mandomatic

19:02 The Responsibility of Sharing Mental Health Information

21:50 Navigating Emotional Capacity in Mental Health Professions

24:13 Generational Shifts in Mental Health Awareness

27:27 The Evolving Landscape of EMS Careers

29:15 Recognizing Resilience and Support in the Profession

33:40 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (3).mp4

In this episode, I sat down with Amanda Flores, a culturally competent licensed marriage and family therapist who gets really real about her own experience with postpartum depression and anxiety. We talk about why maternal mental health is so overlooked, the added layer of chaos the pandemic dropped on moms, and why no one should have to do motherhood alone (despite what society tries to sell us).

Amanda shares the good, the hard, and the “I didn’t sign up for this” parts of being both a mom and a fire wife. We dig into cultural expectations, guilt, and the power of having support systems that actually… support. If you’ve ever felt like you’re supposed to hold it all together while falling apart inside, this conversation is a giant permission slip that you don’t have to.

Follow Amanda on IG @wholeheartedmamatherapy and Audra on @carryonfirefamily

Find Amanda on Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/amanda-flores-brea-ca/960098

For More information on Postpartum Support:

https://postpartum.net/

Visit Audra's website: https://carryoncarrion.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Maternal Mental Health

01:47 Personal Journey and Professional Insights

01:58 Navigating Postpartum Challenges During COVID

15:00 Finding Support and Healing Strategies

23:56 Balancing Motherhood and Partner's Career

25:30 Redesigning Postpartum Care in the U.S.

30:12 Overcoming Stigma: Asking for Help

31:58 The Importance of Community and Self-Care

32:18 Advocating for Maternal Health

34:48 Communication in Fire Families

37:34 Self-Care Essentials for New Moms

40:45 Leaving a Legacy of Support and Passion

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Keywords

maternal mental health, postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, support systems, self-care, motherhood, mental health resources, fire wife, community support, therapy, firefighter

Takeaways

Salty Paramedic gained popularity through relatable and humorous content.

His books focus on personal growth and relationships for first responders.

Humor is essential for coping with the challenges of the fire service.

Social media has provided him with a platform to help others.

He emphasizes the importance of finding one's 'why' in life and career.

Mental health awareness in the fire service is improving over time.

He aims to leave a positive legacy for his family and colleagues.

The Salty Paramedic is also venturing into podcasting to reach a wider audience.

He created a party game for first responders as a fun outlet.

His future projects include a horror novel about a paramedic.

Order Salty Paramedic's books and merch here: https://thesaltyparamedic.com/

Follow @saltyparamedic and @carryonfirefamily on Instagram.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Salty Paramedic

01:27 The Rise of Salty Paramedic

05:12 Books and Their Impact

10:47 Finding Your Why

21:28 Mental Health in the Fire Service

25:08 Legacy and Future Endeavors

Keywords

Salty Paramedic, firefighter, mental health, humor, books, podcast, first responders, relationships, social media, EMS

In this conversation, Audra speaks with Jon, a firefighter paramedic and founder of Rescue 1 CBD, about the benefits of CBD for first responders, the challenges of running a CBD business, and the importance of sleep and wellness in the fire service. Jon shares his personal journey into firefighting, the misconceptions surrounding CBD, and the generational differences in the approach to work-life balance among firefighters. The discussion also covers the launch of new products aimed at helping first responders and the legacy Jon hopes to leave in the industry.

Visit https://rescue1cbd.com/ and use code CARRYON for 15% off your order.

Follow @rescue_1_cbd and @carryonfirefamily on Instagram

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Exciting Developments

03:26 Jon's Journey into the Fire Service

06:08 The 24/72 Shift Schedule

09:02 The Impact of CBD on Firefighters

12:00 Misconceptions About CBD and Drug Testing

14:54 Meaningful Feedback from CBD Users

17:44 The Importance of Sleep for Firefighters

20:54 Generational Differences in Firefighting

24:05 Work-Life Balance and Mental Health

25:49 Innovative Products for Firefighters

27:58 Legacy and Impact in the Fire Service

35:56 End Credits

In this conversation, Missie shares her experiences as a fire wife, discussing the challenges and shifts in her life since her husband joined the fire service. She emphasizes the importance of connection during his absences, the multifaceted role she plays in her family, and how she balances her creative pursuits with motherhood. Missie also offers advice for other fire wives, highlighting the need for resilience and self-care, and reflects on the lessons learned through her journey.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:50 Life as a Fire Wife

05:59 Maintaining Connection During Absences

08:40 The Role of a Fire Wife

11:40 Building a Social Media Presence

14:43 Juggling Family and Creativity

17:41 Advice for Struggling Fire Wives

20:43 Lessons on Resilience

23:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections