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 @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

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.

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

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!

• 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.

solo 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 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

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.

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

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 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

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.

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

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.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

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.

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

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.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