In this episode, Dr. Luke Montrose discusses his research on the reproductive health of firefighters, particularly focusing on the effects of occupational exposure to smoke. The conversation covers the study's design, the importance of understanding long-term health impacts, and the specific focus on male reproductive health. Dr. Montrose highlights the need for more participants in the study and the implications of initial findings regarding fertility issues among firefighters. The episode serves as a call to action for firefighter families to engage with this important research.
Learn More
website: https://www.themontroselab.com/
email: luke.montrose@colostate.edu
In this episode, Dr. Morgan Cutlip joins us to discuss her new book, A Better Share, and dive into the realities of balancing relationships and the mental load, especially in first responder families. We get real about the impact of gender roles, the struggles with resentment, and why open communication is key to building more equitable partnerships. Plus, she shares insights on how today’s relationship dynamics shape future generations and why systemic support matters.
Whether you’re a parent, a partner, or just looking for a fresh perspective, this conversation is full of honest moments and relatable stories, served with a side of humor. You won’t want to miss it!
Takeaways:
Books and Podcasts Mentioned:
Learn more about Dr. Morgan Cutlip
Website: https://drmorgancutlip.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmorgancutlip
Books: Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself
Courses: The Motherload
Mental health in the fire service is a topic we’re passionate about, and today we’re joined by Mike Kaufman, firefighter, paramedic, and founder of Tee It Up for Mental Health. Mike shares his journey into the fire service, the personal loss that motivated him to start this nonprofit, and how the annual golf tournament is bringing firefighters and their families together while raising money for first responder mental health programs.
We also discuss the importance of community, the challenges of balancing family life with a fire career, and why seeking therapy should be as normal as going to the gym. Plus, Mike shares insights into how his department is leading the way with mental health benefits for firefighters.
Learn more about Tee It Up for Mental Health
Follow them on Instagram: @teeitupformentalhealth
In this episode, we sit down with Kristen McCormick, a wildland firefighter and counselor, to explore the unique challenges of firefighting and its impact on relationships and mental health. Kristen shares insights from her research on hotshot crews, discussing how the unpredictability of fire contrasts with the complexities of human relationships.
We dive into the emotional and physical demands of the job, the deep camaraderie among firefighters, and the strain that firefighting can place on personal relationships. The conversation covers the importance of effective communication, intentionality, and emotional resilience—both on the fireline and at home.
We also examine the often unseen labor of firefighter partners, the challenges of maintaining intimacy, and the necessity of autonomy and support in relationships. Kristen offers valuable perspectives on compartmentalization, vulnerability, and the need for mental health awareness in navigating these dynamics.
Key Takeaways
Tune in for a raw and insightful discussion on the realities of wildland firefighting, the toll it takes on relationships, and how both firefighters and their loved ones can navigate these challenges.
Media Mentions During This Episode
Dark Matter by Black Crouch
This Past Weekend podcast with Theo Von
World Class Conversations podcast with Aubrey Marcus
Learn More About Kristen McCormick
website: https://www.anchorandflankwellness.com/
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchorandflankwellness/
In this conversation, Maggie Hernandez, an associate marriage and family therapist, discusses the significance of attachment styles in relationships, particularly for first responders. She explains how attachment styles are formed through early interactions with caregivers and how they influence emotional bonds and coping mechanisms in adulthood. The discussion also covers the unique challenges faced by first responders and their partners, including the impact of job-related stress on attachment patterns. Maggie emphasizes the importance of seeking support and fostering secure attachments to improve relationships. Additionally, she introduces the Fire Family Collective, a support network for partners of first responders, aimed at providing resources and community for those navigating the complexities of this lifestyle.
Takeaways
Media Mentioned During the Show
Learn More About Maggie
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mindmatterswithmaggie/
Fire Family Collective:https://www.firefamilycollective.org/
In this episode, we sit down with Luke Sherman, Senior Vice President of Outreach for Folds of Honor, an organization dedicated to providing scholarships to families of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders. Luke shares the organization’s mission, its 2022 expansion to include first responders, and the powerful impact these scholarships have had on families.
We discuss how families can apply for scholarships, the role of community involvement in identifying those in need, and the significant rise in applications. Luke also takes us through the inspiring origin story of Folds of Honor and wraps up with personal insights and some fun rapid-fire questions.
Key Takeaways:
• Folds of Honor has awarded nearly 62,000 scholarships totaling approximately $290 million.
• The organization expanded its mission to include first responders in 2022.
• Safety and freedom are the core values that drive their mission.
• Scholarships are available for both children and spouses of first responders.
• The application process requires documentation to verify eligibility.
• Community support plays a vital role in identifying families who need assistance.
• The organization has seen a 300% increase in first responder scholarship applications this year.
• Folds of Honor was founded after Colonel Dan Rooney witnessed firsthand the impact of war on military families.
• The goal is to provide financial support and educational opportunities for first responder families.
• Stepping outside of one’s comfort zone is key to personal growth.
Books Mentioned During This Episode
The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter
Learn More About Folds of Honor
Website:https://foldsofhonor.org/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/foldsofhonor/
First Responder Scholarship Info:https://foldsofhonor.org/scholarships/first-responder-scholarships/
In this conversation, Tyler Moore, known as Tidy Dad, shares insights on managing household chaos, especially for first responder families. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork in household chores, involving children in responsibilities, and adopting a practical approach to organization through soft decluttering. Tyler's book, 'Tidy Up Your Life: Rethinking How to Organize, Declutter, and Make Space for What Matters Most' offers relatable strategies for creating a functional home environment amidst the unpredictability of life.
Resources and Media Mentioned
Follow Tidy Dad
website:https://thetidydad.com/
instagram:@tidydad
In this episode, we dive deep into neurodiversity among first responders, specifically focusing on ADHD. Our guest, James Boomhower, a Critical Care Transport Specialist Paramedic with extensive experience in mental health advocacy, shares his personal and professional insights on navigating high-pressure situations with ADHD.
We explore the challenges and strengths of neurodivergence in the field, discuss the importance of self-awareness and support systems, and offer practical advice for individuals and organizations.
If you've ever wondered about neurodivergence, either as a first responder or a spouse, this episode is for you.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JAMES + STAYFIT4DUTY
Website: www.stayfit4duty.org
Instagram: @stay_fit4duty
Media Mentioned During This Episode
Start your year with a fresh focus on wellness! In this special episode, we’re joined by Olivia Mead, founder and CEO of Yoga For First Responders® (YFFR), a groundbreaking nonprofit that helps first responders and military personnel process stress, enhance performance, and build resilience through yoga.
Olivia shares how YFFR’s job-specific, research-backed protocol is transforming mental health and reducing PTS(d) risks in active-duty professionals. Learn about the benefits of yoga for first responders and their families, including tools to navigate the unique challenges of their demanding careers.
Discover how YFFR is making a difference with certified instructors, a dedicated training app, online courses, and more. Whether you’re a first responder, a family member, or someone passionate about mental health, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration.
Use code: DC200 when you register for in-person or virtual instructor school for $200-off
In-person Instructor School: https://www.yogaforfirstresponders.org/instructor-school
Virtual Instructor School: https://www.yogaforfirstresponders.org/virtual-instructor-school
Learn More about Yoga for First Responders
website: https://www.yogaforfirstresponders.org/
Instagram: @yogaforfirstresponders
As we wrap up our 2024 season, we’re ending on a high note—dispatchers. Often overlooked yet absolutely vital, dispatchers are the unseen first responders behind every emergency call. Joining us is Ashley Valenzuela, better known as The Raspy Dispatcher. A seasoned 911 dispatcher since 2018, Ashley has made it her mission to educate the public and aspiring dispatchers about the realities of emergency communications. Through her platform and podcast, she combines her experience, humor, and empathy to shed light on the critical role of 911 dispatchers.
In this episode, Ashley dives into the complexities of dispatching, from managing escalating calls to balancing the trauma of back-to-back emergencies. We explore misconceptions about dispatchers, the differences between police, fire, and medical dispatching, and how dispatchers navigate mental health challenges. Whether you’re a first responder, a dispatcher, or someone curious about what happens behind the scenes of a 911 call, this episode is packed with insights, real talk, and respect for the people holding the line when emergencies strike.
Tune in for an eye-opening conversation and a heartfelt tribute to the incredible work of 911 dispatchers. Don’t miss our final episode of the season!
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
Love: What Life Is All About by Leo F. Buscaglia
Follow The Raspy Dispatcher
website: https://www.theraspydispatcher.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theraspydispatcher/
Podcast: Let's Talk Dispatch
In this episode, we sit down with Dwayne and Kristen Mann, the dynamic duo behind The Sophisticated Jake. After an on-duty injury and a PTSD diagnosis forced Dwayne to leave his 18-year career in the fire service, he embarked on a challenging journey to rediscover his identity and purpose. Together with his wife Kristen, who brings her own inspiring story of sobriety and resilience, they share how they’ve navigated the trials of PTSD, redefined their roles at home, and worked to break the stigma surrounding mental health in first responder families.
Dwayne and Kristen open up about the realities of recovery, the importance of communication, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. They also discuss their mission to support others through The Sophisticated Jake. Whether you’re a first responder, a spouse, or someone passionate about mental health, this episode is a candid and heartfelt look at healing and hope.
Follow Dwayne + Kristin
website: https://www.thesophisticatedjake.com/
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesophisticatedjake
get a copy of our book Dear Chiefs We Need To Talk
Navigating intimacy and communication can be tough for first responder couples facing the demands of high-stress careers and unpredictable schedules. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome Vanessa & Xander Marin to this episode! Known for creating one of the most popular online platforms for relationship and intimacy advice, Vanessa, a licensed sex therapist, and Xander, her approachable and funny husband, share their signature blend of expertise and relatability to help couples stay connected.
In this insightful conversation, Vanessa & Xander dive into actionable strategies tailored specifically for first responder families. Whether you’re a firefighter, police officer, paramedic, or their partner, you’ll walk away with practical tools to strengthen your relationship, even amidst the chaos of first responder life.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
•How to prioritize intimacy despite demanding schedules.
•Simple yet effective tips for open communication and resolving conflicts.
•Ways to rebuild trust and reconnect during stressful times.
This episode is perfect for anyone ready to nurture their relationship and rediscover their spark. Don’t miss these expert-backed insights to help first responder couples thrive!
Podcasts and Books Mentioned in This Episode:
Podcasts:
• We Can Do Hard Things – Vanessa has been a guest multiple times, describing the experience as surreal and enriching.
• Armchair Expert – Hosted by Dax Shepard, featuring deep conversations with fascinating guests.
Books:
• Sex Talks: The Five Conversations That Will Transform Your Love Life by Vanessa & Xander Marin – A highly acclaimed book that provides practical guidance on strengthening intimacy and connection through open, meaningful conversations.
• Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck – A transformative book on how our mindset shapes our success and happiness.
For more relationship and intimacy tips, follow Vanessa and Xander on Instagram (@vanessaandxander) or check out their podcast, Pillow Talks, for practical advice, relatable stories, and plenty of humor!
📚 Grab your copy of Audra + Chelsi’s book Dear Chiefs: We Need to Talk .
In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked topic of nutrition and wellness for first responders. Joined by special guest Chloe Schweinshaut, a registered dietitian nutritionist and founder of Healthy Response, the conversation explores how proper nutrition impacts the demanding lives of first responders.
Chloe shares her unique perspective as both a firewife and a nutritionist for the Boston Fire Department, discussing challenges in maintaining good nutrition for first responder families and the motivation behind her supplement line designed for firefighters, law enforcement, and military personnel.
Books shared during this episode
The Circadian Code by Dr. Panda
Connect with Chloe
website: https://myhealthyresponse.com/
(use DEARCHIEFS at checkout for 20% off)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthyresponse/
The holiday season can be stressful for anyone, but for first responder families, it can feel especially overwhelming. In this episode, we’re joined by Amy Motroni, founder of Genius Mom Hacks and Certified Life Coach, who shares her expert tips for reducing holiday stress and managing the chaos. Amy, a mother of four (including twins!), helps moms everywhere get their homes on autopilot with effective routines that work, even when your partner is away on 48-72 hour shifts.
From balancing holiday traditions with unpredictable schedules to creating simple routines that keep the family on track, Amy’s advice is perfect for making the season more joyful and less overwhelming. Whether you’re holding down the fort while your firefighter or first responder spouse is on duty or just looking for practical ways to simplify this busy time of year, this episode has you covered.
Podcasts mentioned in this episodes:
Connect with Amy
website: https://geniusmomhacks.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geniusmomhacks/
In this episode, we welcome Eve Rodsky, author of the best-selling book Fair Play, to discuss the often-overlooked challenges of invisible labor in first responder households. Eve’s work introduces a revolutionary approach to managing domestic responsibilities and creating fair partnerships at home.
We explore Eve’s concept of unicorn space—time for self-care and creativity that is vital for personal well-being but often overlooked. Eve shares her personal journey and the pivotal blueberries breakdown moment that led to the creation of the Fair Play system, designed to make invisible tasks visible and help couples share the mental load.
Whether you’re a first responder spouse or anyone feeling overwhelmed by the weight of mental load and household tasks, this conversation offers valuable insights on how to navigate the complexities of invisible work and reclaim your unicorn space.
RESOURCES MENTIONED DURING THIS EPISODE
Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari
Order Fair Play: https://www.fairplaylife.com/shop
Follow Eve Rodsky
Website: www.fairplaylife.com
Instagram: @fairplaylife
Tiktok: #fairplay
In this episode, we chat with Jenna Partlow, a fire wife married to a fire captain at the El Segundo Fire Department, who’s also a managing director at a Big 4 public accounting firm. With nearly 20 years at her firm, Jenna has spent the last seven years navigating the demands of being a working mother of two on a 50% reduced schedule. Balancing her high-powered career and the unpredictable nature of fire family life, Jenna is an expert at managing her family’s unique dynamics.
We discuss her decision to scale back her work hours, the challenges she’s faced as a career mom in a first responder household, and why she prefers to say she “builds room” in her life rather than seeking balance. Jenna also shares how she prepares her children for the rewards and challenges of having a firefighter parent.
Topics covered in this episode include:
•Jenna’s decision to transition to a 50% reduced work schedule and how it’s impacted her career and family
•The unique challenges faced by working mothers in first responder families, including managing shifts, childcare, and family routines.
•Jenna’s approach to “building room” in her life instead of striving for balance.
•The importance of flexibility and how Jenna prioritizes both her career and family amidst her husband’s unpredictable firefighter schedule.
•Preparing children for the challenges and rewards of having a firefighter parent.
Tune in for practical tips on managing a fire family while pursuing a career, and hear how Jenna makes it all work!
Follow Jenna
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennacpartlow/
Books Mentioned During This Episode
The Conscious Parent by Shefali Tsabary
Better Than Before by Gretchen Rubin
Do You Mind If I Cancel? by Gary Janetti
In this episode, we’re joined by James Boomhower of Stay Fit For Duty to unpack the emotional rollercoaster that comes with overtime in the first responder world. Why do first responders struggle to say no to extra shifts? We explore the guilt they feel when turning down overtime, the pressure spouses face when asking them to stay home, and the resentment both feel toward coworkers who deny overtime or take more time off.
James also shares valuable life updates and offers practical advice for balancing the demands of work, family, and mental health in this high-stress career. Whether you’re a first responder or a spouse, this episode provides key insights and strategies for navigating the challenges of overtime and family life.
Topics Covered:
• The emotional impact of overtime on first responders
• Guilt and pressure associated with turning down shifts
• Spousal perspectives on asking for time at home
• Resentment toward coworkers regarding overtime decisions
• Life updates from James Boomhower
Books Mentioned
Dirty Laundry by Richard Pink & Roxanne Emery
ADHD 2.0 by Edward M. Hallowell M.D
Follow James Boomhower
website: www.stayfit4duty.org
In this powerful episode, we reconnect with Jeff Banman, former firefighter, CIA counterterrorism operator, and author of When It All Goes to Hell: Notes on Crisis and Chaos. Jeff shares his deep insights into managing high-stakes moments, both on the frontlines and at home, offering practical strategies to stay grounded in the face of overwhelming pressure. With over 30 years of experience in human performance and resilience, Jeff dives into the common mistakes people make during crises and how to avoid them, especially for first responders navigating professional and personal challenges. Tune in for a conversation that pushes past limits and equips you with tools to handle chaos like never before.
In this heartfelt episode, Audra and Chelsi welcome Kristina Moon, widow of FDNY firefighter William “Billy” Moon II, to share her powerful story. After tragically losing her husband in 2022 during a training exercise, Kristina has dedicated her life to keeping his memory alive through The Billy Moon Foundation. As president of the foundation, Kristina advocates for organ donation awareness and encourages families to have difficult yet vital conversations about their end-of-life wishes.
Join us as Kristina opens up about her journey from elementary educator to nonprofit leader, and how she’s honoring Billy’s legacy while raising their two children, Brianne (12) and Colin (10). In this episode, we discuss the impact of organ donation, and the importance of resilience in the face of unimaginable grief.
Kristina’s story is one of strength, love, and advocacy. Through her foundation, she aims to help others in the firefighter community, spreading awareness and education about the life-saving potential of organ donation.
Key Topics Covered:
• Kristina Moon’s journey as a widow and president of The Billy Moon Foundation
• The impact of organ donation
• The importance of having tough conversations with loved ones
Books Mentioned
Dare To Lead by Brene Brown
Follow The Billy Moon Foundation
website: https://billymoonfoundation.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_billy_moon_foundation/
In this inspiring episode Audra and Chelsi sit down with Fire Captain Andrea Binley, a trailblazing female firefighter who proves you can have it all—your career, dreams, and family. Starting her journey as a Fire Explorer with Upland Fire Department at just 19, Andrea has climbed the ranks from firefighter/paramedic to Captain, all while balancing motherhood and a blended family.
Andrea shares her experiences as a female firefighter in a predominantly male field, the challenges of co-parenting with a firefighter schedule, and what lit the spark inside her to become a firefighter. A passionate advocate for diversity and mentorship, she has developed programs like the DREAM committee (Diversity, Recruitment, Equity, and Mentorship) and the Girl’s Empowerment Camp, supporting and mentoring the next generation of women in firefighting.
We discuss online criticism in the firefighting community, being the subject of firefighter memes, and advice for firewives who may feel uneasy about female firefighters in their departments.
Follow Andrea:
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welcometothelionsden/
or
https://www.instagram.com/firelifemomwife/
Key Topics Covered
• Andrea Binley’s career journey from Fire Explorer to Captain
• Balancing motherhood and a firefighter’s demanding schedule
• Supporting diversity and mentorship in firefighting through the DREAM committee
• Empowering women in firefighting through the Girl’s Empowerment Camp and Women’s Fire Alliance
• Navigating a blended family as a firefighter and mom Step Parent Coaching Course: https://www.mindykylecoaching.com
• Handling online bullying and firefighter memes
Books Mentioned
The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
Atomic Habits by James Clear
It's Okay to Be the Boss by Bruce Tulgan
Leadershift by John C Maxwell
Everything Is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo