Carry On Fire Family

This episode features Jennae Leisey and Bre Spencer from the Thinline Collective, sharing their insights on supporting first responder families, building community, and fostering positivity amidst the challenges of first responder life. They discuss the importance of mental health, family support, and creating supportive networks for first responder spouses.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Thinline Collective and Guests00:20 The unique challenges faced by first responder families01:37 Building a community of support and understanding03:19 Insights on marriage and family life in first responder careers05:12 The importance of mental health and self-care07:18 Supporting spouses through difficult times and calls09:11 The need for community and peer support for wives11:11 Creating positivity and shared experiences13:19 Bridging the gap between first responders and their families15:15 The role of department culture and family inclusion17:02 Upcoming in-person event and community gathering19:10 The legacy and impact of supportive family life21:05 Final thoughts and encouragement for first responder familiesResourcesThinline Collective Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thinline_collective/Eventbrite - First Responder Spouses Event - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-responder-spouses-event-tickets-123456789guest linksInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/thinline_collective/https://www.instagram.com/carryonfirefamily/CarryonCarrion.comFirst responder families, support, community, mental health, fire and police spouses, resilience, positivity, family dynamic, peer support, in-person event

In this interview, Amanda shares her journey as a female firefighter in a male-dominated field, addressing issues like workplace culture, harassment, and the importance of resilience. She discusses her experiences with motherhood, faith, and mental health, offering valuable insights for aspiring firefighters and their families.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Amanda's Background01:06 Entering the Fire Service as a Woman02:24 Workplace Culture and Harassment Issues05:06 Balancing Motherhood and a Firefighting Career07:50 The Role of Faith and Mental Health10:36 Dealing with Discrimination and SOPs12:58 Building Confidence and Personal Strengths15:53 Support Systems and Family Dynamics18:23 The Importance of Professionalism and Respect20:57 Advice for Wives and Families of Firefighters23:42 Amanda's Legacy and Future GoalsresourcesCarry On Fire Family - carryoncarrion.comInstagram: @carryonfirefamily Women in Fire Conference - https://www.womeninfireconference.comFire Department SOPs - https://www.firedeptguidelines.comAmanda's Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-firefighter guest linksLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-firefighterfemale firefighter, workplace culture, harassment, resilience, motherhood, faith, mental health, fire department, gender equality, leadership

In this episode of Carry On Fire Family, Nichole ODonnell shares her journey from adversity to becoming a firefighter, author, and motivational figure. She discusses the importance of grit, resilience, social media influence, and building a community that supports growth and change.ResourcesFire Engineering Books - https://fireengineeringbooks.com Nichole ODonnell's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thesaltyrookie/Nichole ODonnell's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thesaltyrookieCarry On Fire Family's instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carryonfirefamily/Key topicsNichole ODonnell’s journey from adversity to firefightingThe importance of grit, resilience, and disciplineImpact of social media on personal growth and community buildingChapters:00:00 Introduction and Podcast Purpose00:14 Nichole’s Background and Early Life00:22 Dealing with Past Mistakes and Public Apology00:27 The Meaning of Grit and Proving People Wrong01:03 Navigating Toxic Political Climate and Personal Growth01:06 Nichole’s Diverse Life Experiences and Building Resilience01:15 Rebuilding Identity Through Firefighting and Faith01:57 Social Media’s Role in Public Image and Redemption02:37 The Power of Forgiveness and Personal Change03:40 Reflections on Social Media and Personal Growth04:27 The Role of Grit in Overcoming Childhood Challenges05:30 Developing Grit Through Hardship and Fire Service06:51 Fire Service as a Life-Changing Force07:21 Running a Critical Call and Its Impact08:07 Writing 'Diary of a Probie' and Mentorship08:37 Learning from Criticism and Slowing Down09:42 Balancing Work and Personal Life10:46 Dealing with Bets and Expectations in Firefighting11:37 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Achieving Success13:12 Handling Negative Comments and Envy14:47 The Role of Success and Haters15:53 Firefighter Traits and Adrenaline Activities16:38 Motorcycle Racing and Adrenaline Pursuits17:29 Facing Fears and Building Courage21:12 Firefighting’s Impact on Rebuilding Life22:11 The Power of Kindness and Impact on Others23:37 The Importance of Community and Support24:17 Maintaining Work-Life Balance and Preventing Burnout29:04 Building a Supportive Community on Social Media30:42 The Origin of 'Salty Rookie' and Community Building33:09 Nichole’s Legacy and Future Goals36:25 Final Thoughts and Advice for Listeners37:21 Closing Remarks and How to Connect with NicholeKeywordsfirefighter, 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 spouseWhy isolation is more common than people admitHow to build strong community within fire familiesPractical meal planning systems that actually work with shift lifeCoping strategies for loneliness and unpredictabilityThe importance of regular “State of the Union” relationship check-insHow to strengthen communication when schedules don’t alignThis 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 HEREFollow Audra on Instagram @carryonfirefamilyFollow Elise on Instagram @thefirewifeguideKeywordsfire family, fire wife, support, community, emotional learning curve, meal planning, reintegration, coping strategies, motherhood, guidebook

In this episode of Carry On Fire Family, Audra talks with financial planner Christina Cooley-Ber about financial planning for first responders, including pensions, retirement planning, and how couples can get on the same page financially.We cover:Retirement planning for first respondersUnderstanding pension optionsThe emotional side of money decisionsSmall steps that build real financial confidenceWhy community and legacy matter more than numbersWhether 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.comFor more details on Inner Gold Taxes click here: https://innergoldtaxes.com/ Books mentioned: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/soulful-simplicity-courtney-carver/1126091518Chapters00:00 Introduction to Financial Clarity04:40 Navigating Retirement Planning10:36 The Importance of Communication in Finances16:17 Understanding Pension Choices22:05 Taking Small Steps Towards Financial Confidence27:38 Building Community and LegacyFinancial Planning Retirement Readiness Tax Services InnerGold Taxes Courtney Carver Soulful Simplicity First Responder Families Financial Clarity Life InsuranceCommunity Support Firefighter Spouses Long-term Investments Financial Empowerment Enrolled AgentTax Strategy

Season 2 starts NOW!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 @the6clinicFor more about Audra visit carryoncarrion.com and for more fire family content follow her on IG @carryonfirefamilyTakeawaysGrief 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.Keywordsgrief, fire service, health and wellness, first responder families, community support, widowhood, mental health, legacy, heart attack, fire department

Firefighter cancer is real and so is the impact it leaves behind. In this episode, I’m joined by Caylie Valenta, widow of firefighter Andy Valenta, who lost his life to melanoma. Caylie shares her journey through grief, motherhood, and advocacy, and how honoring Andy’s legacy led to the creation of the Andy Valenta Melanoma Foundation. We talk about early detection, firefighter cancer risks, and the power of community support when life changes forever. This episode is about loss but also about hope, purpose, and protecting our fire families.Follow @carryonfirefamily and @avfoundation on instagram for more. TakeawaysCaylie 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 Resilience08:54 The Foundation's Mission and Impact18:09 Legacy and Support for Families25:02 Navigating Grief and Moving ForwardKeywordsfirefighter, cancer screening, melanoma, widow, resilience, foundation, legacy, support, grief, health

In this episode, I reflect on my very first season of solo podcasting and everything that came with it. Juggling family life, emotional bandwidth, and showing up consistently even when life felt heavy. I share what this season taught me about myself, my marriage, and the patterns I didn’t realize I was carrying for years.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! TakeawaysI'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.Keywordssolo podcasting, fire family life, hyper-independence, marriage evolution, anticipatory anxiety, fire spouses, vulnerability, communication, personal growth, podcasting challenges

Co-parenting is hard enough, but co-parenting with a firefighter, especially after a divorce, comes with a whole different set of challenges. As a firewife of 18 years, I’ve lived the reality of shift work, emotional exhaustion, missed holidays, and the pressure that comes with raising kids in a first responder home and I've seen and experienced when it can all fall apart and you feel like there's nothing left to salvage.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 transitionsWhether 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 @carryonfirefamilyCheck 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 @taliabombolaTakeawaysCo-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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Co-Parenting Dynamics03:00 Challenges of Co-Parenting in First Responder Families06:10 Navigating Stepparent Relationships08:57 Dealing with Resentment and Emotional Struggles12:05 Communication Tools for Effective Co-Parenting14:57 Building Consistency Between Homes17:57 Validating Children's Emotions21:04 Maintaining Connection with First Responder Parents23:58 Avoiding Power Struggles in Co-Parenting27:00 Understanding the Stressors of Co-Parenting29:46 Final Thoughts and ResourcesKeywordsco-parenting, first responder families, emotional struggles, communication tools, children's emotions, consistency, power struggles, resentment, family dynamics, therapy

In this episode, Mike Ettenberg opens up about his journey from fire medic to founder of Frontline Optics. He shares what it was really like working through the chaos of COVID-19, why he ultimately chose to leave the fire service, and how that transition reshaped his mental health and family life.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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey of First Responders00:52 Transitioning from Frontline to Entrepreneurship01:15 From Fire Medic to Entrepreneur: A Journey Begins06:28 The Impact of COVID-19 on First Responders12:35 Building a Sunglass Business: The Birth of Frontline Optics15:44 Balancing Family Life and Entrepreneurship18:10 Mental Health Awareness for First Responders23:33 Navigating Burnout and Finding Clarity26:04 The Changing Landscape of the Fire Service29:24 The Future of Frontline Optics and Legacy Building32:49 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (7).mp4Keywordsfirefighter, entrepreneur, mental health, COVID-19, first responders, sunglasses, burnout, family, business, legacy

In this honest and deeply human conversation, Audra and Brittany Thomas-Vestal dig into a topic that fire families rarely say out loud: the quiet, ongoing grief of being a fire spouse.They explore:The invisible grief that comes with missed moments, long shifts, and constant worryHow chronic stress impacts marriages, mental health, and family dynamicsWhy so many fire spouses feel guilty for struggling — and why they shouldn’tThe emotional load Fire Life brings into the homeWhy open conversations, community, and department-level change matterPractical ways spouses can cope, stay grounded, and feel less aloneThe legacy they hope to leave for future generations of fire familiesWhether 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 Keywordsfire 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

In this episode of Carry On, Fire Family, host Audra sits down with Christina Harter to talk about the realities of life as a fire wife; the pride, pressure, and purpose that come with being married to a firefighter. Christina shares her honest perspective on balancing marriage, motherhood, and career while navigating the unique rhythms of fire family life.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. TakeawaysChristina'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.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background04:37 Life as a Firefighter's Spouse07:26 Building a Support Network10:32 Managing Family Dynamics and Work13:34 The Importance of Authenticity16:29 Practical Life Hacks for Solo Parenting24:18 Emergency Preparedness for Families26:38 Wellness and Self-Care as a Fire Wife31:51 Community and Support in the Fire Service35:48 Legacy and Authentic Connections43:18 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (7).mp4Keywordsfirefighter spouse, motherhood, community support, wellness, authenticity, work-life balance, parenting, fire family, mental health, self-care

In this honest and heart-centered conversation, Audra and Brittany get into what it’s really like being part of a fire family, from the unpredictable schedules to the emotional weight that comes with it. Brittany opens up about her journey through postpartum depression, rediscovering herself after motherhood, and how fashion became a lifeline back to confidence and identity.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.comTakeawaysBrittany 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.Chapters00:00 Understanding FireFamily Life04:31 The Surprising Challenges of FireWife Life07:27 Navigating Identity and Career Changes10:38 The Role of Community and Support12:35 Fashion as a Tool for Joy15:21 Balancing Motherhood and FireFamily Responsibilities18:16 Legacy and Resilience for Future Generations38:29 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (7).mp4

In this episode, Kristen Hampson opens her heart and shares what it’s like to build a life as a fire family wife and mom. Balancing love, motherhood, and the unpredictability that comes with a first responder’s world. She talks about walking through postpartum anxiety and depression, navigating pregnancies during a global pandemic, and finding light in the middle of it all. Kristen’s story is one of courage, healing, and community; a reminder that we’re never meant to carry it all alone. Through her journey, she shows us that self-care isn’t selfish, breaking generational patterns is possible, and hope can grow even in the hardest seasons.Follow @carryonfirefamily for more on Instagram Check out carryoncarrion.com for more fire family life. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Coffee Talk02:41 Career Journey and Family Life04:27 Navigating Parenthood and Pregnancy Challenges07:39 Postpartum Experience and Mental Health11:58 Second Pregnancy and Complications17:50 Coping with Trauma and Seeking Help20:47 The Importance of Seeking Help22:54 Navigating Mental Health in First Responders23:46 Sharing Birth Stories and Experiences25:45 Pregnancy and Birth During COVID-1927:23 The Impact of Firefighter Life on Family Dynamics30:26 Building a Supportive Community33:09 Self-Care Practices for Busy Parents35:08 Leaving a Legacy of Mental Health AwarenessTakeawaysKristen 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

In this episode, Audra Carrion and Destiny Morris, LMFT, unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in mental health: the difference between therapy and coaching. Together, they explore how cultural competence shapes effective therapy, especially within first responder communities where strength is often mistaken for silence.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.comOur 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. TakeawaysTherapy 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.Chapters00:00 Journey to Therapy: Destiny's Story04:08 Understanding Therapy: Definitions and Differences07:09 Coaching vs. Therapy: Key Distinctions09:53 Red Flags in Coaching and Therapy13:00 The Role of Dark Humor in Therapy15:30 Cultural Competence in Therapy for First Responders17:56 Breaking the Stigma: Therapy in First Responder Communities21:05 Generational Shifts in First Responder Mental Health23:50 Legacy and Impact: Destiny's Vision26:22 Resources for Finding Culturally Competent Therapists36:22 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (4).mp4

​In this episode of the Carry On Fire Family podcast, Audra sits down with Spencer from Mando Medic and they get real about mental health in the world of first responders.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. TakeawaysMental 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. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mental Health in First Responders00:58 Spencer's Journey and Peer Support Insights01:29 Introduction and Career Updates03:54 Reflections on Turning 3006:31 Understanding Burnout and Its Risk Factors09:06 Strategies for Managing Burnout11:57 Compassion Fatigue and Its Impact14:46 The Motivation Behind Mandomatic19:02 The Responsibility of Sharing Mental Health Information21:50 Navigating Emotional Capacity in Mental Health Professions24:13 Generational Shifts in Mental Health Awareness27:27 The Evolving Landscape of EMS Careers29:15 Recognizing Resilience and Support in the Profession33:40 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (3).mp4

TRIGGER WARNING! Post partum depression discussion!!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 @carryonfirefamilyFind Amanda on Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/amanda-flores-brea-ca/960098For More information on Postpartum Support: https://postpartum.net/Visit Audra's website: https://carryoncarrion.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Maternal Mental Health01:47 Personal Journey and Professional Insights01:58 Navigating Postpartum Challenges During COVID15:00 Finding Support and Healing Strategies23:56 Balancing Motherhood and Partner's Career25:30 Redesigning Postpartum Care in the U.S.30:12 Overcoming Stigma: Asking for Help31:58 The Importance of Community and Self-Care32:18 Advocating for Maternal Health34:48 Communication in Fire Families37:34 Self-Care Essentials for New Moms40:45 Leaving a Legacy of Support and Passion46:49 Black and White Modern Animated Vlog YouTube Intro (2).mp4Keywordsmaternal mental health, postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, support systems, self-care, motherhood, mental health resources, fire wife, community support, therapy, firefighter