Fire Family Collective Podcast

In this episode of the Fire Family Collective Podcast, Amanda and Audra Carrion from CarryOnFireFamily, and co-founder of the Dear Chiefs podcast, discuss the unique challenges faced by fire wives and families. Audra shares her journey as a fire wife, the importance of community support, and how to navigate the chaos of family life. They emphasize the significance of communication, the resources available for fire families, and the lighthearted moments that bring joy amidst the challenges. The conversation highlights the strength and resilience of fire families and the importance of sharing experiences to foster connection and understanding. But it's not all serious, they also talk about their favorite girl dinner, and who is Team Conrad versus Team Jeremiah (The Summer I Turned Pretty). Find Audra at CarryOnCarrion. Support the show JOIN US! 👉 https://bit.ly/JoinFireFamilyCollective Support our Mission. 👉 https://bit.ly/Donate2FFC Connect with us on Instagram. 👉 https://www.instagram.com/firefamilycollective/ Listen on the go: Apple podcasts: https://apple.co/4kvLKwb Spotify: https://spoti.fi/45IIRDl Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrNC3faooGcHBr1dHm_FVYBsPQ7XAtBtd ----------------- Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2025.

In this conversation, Amanda and Suzy discuss the challenges and rewards of being a partner to a first responder. They explore the importance of community support, the balancing act of work and family life, and the emotional resilience required in their unique circumstances. Suzy shares her experiences as a librarian and a fire spouse, emphasizing the significance of having a support network and the value of literature in navigating their lives. They also touch on the impact of their partners' careers on their family dynamics and the resources available for both adults and children in the fire family community. Support the show JOIN US! 👉 https://bit.ly/JoinFireFamilyCollective Support our Mission. 👉 https://bit.ly/Donate2FFC Connect with us on Instagram. 👉 https://www.instagram.com/firefamilycollective/ Listen on the go: Apple podcasts: https://apple.co/4kvLKwb Spotify: https://spoti.fi/45IIRDl Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrNC3faooGcHBr1dHm_FVYBsPQ7XAtBtd ----------------- Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2025.

In this conversation, Amanda and Katie Kada discuss the unique challenges and misconceptions faced by fire families. They explore the realities of being a first responder spouse, the importance of self-care, and the impact of parenting on personal well-being. Katie shares her journey of prioritizing her health through the '75 Soft' program and the joy of rediscovering reading. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of maintaining relationships and finding connection amidst the busy lives of first responder families. Support the show JOIN US! 👉 https://bit.ly/JoinFireFamilyCollective Support our Mission. 👉 https://bit.ly/Donate2FFC Connect with us on Instagram. 👉 https://www.instagram.com/firefamilycollective/ Listen on the go: Apple podcasts: https://apple.co/4kvLKwb Spotify: https://spoti.fi/45IIRDl Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrNC3faooGcHBr1dHm_FVYBsPQ7XAtBtd ----------------- Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2025.

In this episode of the Fire Family Collective Podcast, Amanda and Ashley Pridgeon discuss the unique dynamics of being part of a firefighter family. They explore Ashley's experiences growing up as a fire kid, the challenges of parenting with a firefighter spouse, and the importance of mental health resources for first responders. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support, the reality behind the romanticized image of firefighters, and the significance of intentional family moments. They also highlight the importance of attending firefighter events together to strengthen bonds and support systems. Takeaways Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show JOIN US! 👉 https://bit.ly/JoinFireFamilyCollective Support our Mission. 👉 https://bit.ly/Donate2FFC Connect with us on Instagram. 👉 https://www.instagram.com/firefamilycollective/ Listen on the go: Apple podcasts: https://apple.co/4kvLKwb Spotify: https://spoti.fi/45IIRDl Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrNC3faooGcHBr1dHm_FVYBsPQ7XAtBtd ----------------- Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2025.

In episode 54 of the Fire Family Collective podcast, Amanda speaks with Stephanie and Dan Lievense about their experiences during the Eaton Fire in January 2025. Dan is a Los Angeles Fire Department firefighter; Stephanie is a marriage and family therapist. The conversation delves into the emotional and practical challenges faced by firefighters and their families during emergencies, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned about trust and preparedness in fire families. The guests share their personal stories of fear, resilience, and the critical role of support systems in navigating the aftermath of the fire. Chris Stine, President of the Los Angeles Firemen's Relief Association also talks about their efforts to support LA fire families during and after devasting LA Fires in January 2025. JOIN US! 👉 https://bit.ly/JoinFireFamilyCollective Support our Mission. 👉 https://bit.ly/Donate2FFC Connect with us on Instagram. 👉 https://www.instagram.com/firefamilycollective/ Listen on the go: Apple podcasts: https://apple.co/4kvLKwb Spotify: https://spoti.fi/45IIRDl Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrNC3faooGcHBr1dHm_FVYBsPQ7XAtBtd #firefamily #firespouse #firefighter #fireservice #relationships #marriage #parenting #mentalhealth #lafd #lafra #eatonfire Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2025.

In this episode, Peter McKenzie and Amanda Ellis discuss the transition of the Firehouse Roundtable podcast to the Fire Family Collective, focusing on the importance of community and support for families of firefighters. Amanda shares her personal journey of feeling isolated as a new firefighter's spouse and how connecting with others in similar situations has been transformative. They explore the vision for the Fire Family Collective, including mentorship programs and upcoming resources aimed at supporting families. The conversation emphasizes the need for connection, understanding, and shared experiences within the firefighting community. Host: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) of Ventura Fire Foundation Inc. Guest Host: Amanda Ellis Link: Request Access to the Fire Family Collective Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Support the show Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2025.

Guest host Amanda Ellis talks with three other fire spouses, Stephanie Kay, Maggie Hernandez, and Anna Young, about the Ventura Fire Foundation's newest initiative, the Fire Family Collective. To be launched in January 2025, the Fire Family Collective is a supportive digital community for USA fire families offering resources, education, and connection. The Collective will empower fire families to overcome adversity, strengthen their relationships, and foster a sense of belonging within the fire service community. The discussion on this show taps into many topics the Collective will focus on, including parenting, relationships, and mental health. Host: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) of Ventura Fire Foundation Inc. Guest Host: Amanda Ellis Guest: Stephanie Kay Guest: Maggie Hernandez Guest: Anna Young Link: Request Access to the Fire Family Collective Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

A deep conversation with Chief David Rhodes, a 38-year veteran of the fire service and editor-in-chief of Fire Engineering magazine. They explore the differences between the public and private sectors, the challenges of bureaucracy and generational differences within the fire service. Chief Rhodes shares insights on the importance of training, the cultural shifts in the fire service, and the significance of outside involvement in professional development. The discussion also touches on the Georgia Smoke Diver Program, risk management, and the need for adaptability in firefighting tactics. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of relationships and collaboration in driving change within fire departments. With guest co-host Derrick Bean. Host: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) of Ventura Fire Foundation Inc. Guest Host: Engineer Derrick Bean of Ventura City Fire Guest: Chief David Rhodes of Fire Engineering Magazine Link: Georgia Smoke Diver Link: Register for Webinar Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

Derrick Bean, a Fire Engineer, Girl Dad, and new member of the Foundation's Board celebrates the show's 50th epsiode with guest host Joe Booth. Derrick shares his unique journey to becoming a firefighter, including his multicultural background and experiences in various fire departments. The conversation delves into the importance of diversity in the fire service, the role of fire cause investigation, and the challenges of balancing family life as a firefighter. Derrick also discusses his recovery from a significant injury and the support he received from his community. The episode concludes with insights on encouraging future generations to consider firefighting as a career and the current challenges in recruitment within the field. Host: Joe Booth, Executive Director of Ventura Fire Foundation Inc. Guest: Engineer Derrick Bean of Ventura City Fire Link: Register for Webinar Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

In this conversation, guest hosts Amanda Ellis and Stephanie Kay talk with marriage and family therapist (and fire wife) Tiffany Atalla about parenting as a firefighter family and navigating the challenges that come with it. The discussion includes fostering understanding and connection with children, empowering kids to be independent and resilient, and maintaining a united front as parents. Overall, the conversation provides practical tips and insights for effective parenting in the firefighter family. They also touch on the concept of the 'family canoe' and the different roles and dynamics that come into play when a first responder returns home. The conversation highlights the value of affirming and supporting each other as partners and parents, and the importance of seeking help and building a support network. They also discuss the challenges of navigating relationships with non-first responder parent friends and offer insights on finding balance and empathy in those relationships. Guest Host: Amanda Ellis Guest Host: Stephanie Kay Guest: Tiffany Atalla, LMFT of Best Solutions Therapy Link: Register for Webinar Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

Brian Waters, LA County Fire Department captain and owner of Code 3 Invest, talks with Peter about his journey in real estate investing. They discuss the importance of diversifying income sources, the risks of relying solely on a firefighter's salary, and the benefits of investing in real estate. Brian shares his personal experience with investing in rental properties and explains why he believes it is a more secure and profitable investment strategy. They also touch on the topic of 457 retirement plans and the potential drawbacks of heavily investing in them. Brian discusses the correlation between the fire service and the business world, emphasizing the importance of investing in real estate and starting a business. He explains his current business, which focuses on coaching and mentoring first responders on how to buy rental properties out of state and set up tax structures to save money. Waters and Peter also discuss strategies for reducing W-2 income taxes and the benefits of real estate investing. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) Guest: Captain Brian Waters, Los Angeles County Fire Department / Code 3 Invest Link: Donate a Vehicle Link: Register for Webinar Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

In this conversation, Destiny Morris, LMFT, discusses the importance of reconnecting and reintegrating into the family after firefighters come home from work. The main themes discussed include hypervigilance, checking in with oneself and one's partner, closing the stress cycle, managing expectations, and healthy ways to greet each other. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication, compromise, and compassion in maintaining a healthy relationship. Destiny also introduces her online course, Thriving Through Fire, which provides support and guidance for the partners of firefighters. Also included in this episode is a short conversation with SoCal Edison, presenting sponsor of the 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb. Hosts: Battalion Chief Jason Kay and Stephanie Kay Guest: Destiny Morris, LMFT of Destiny Morris Therapy Link: 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb Link: Thriving Through Fire Link: Edison International Link: Ventura Foundation Webinar Series Registration Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

Driver Engineer Jason Patton talks about his journey from mechanic to firefighter to creator of Fire Department Chronicles to Vice President of Fire Department Coffee. They discuss Firefighter Fenton as well as the importance of firefighters having a plan B and not relying on the "firefighter nonsense" they tell you at the academy. Jason also discusses the mental health movement within the fire service. The conversation explores the connection between mental health and masculinity, emphasizing the importance of men being able to talk about their feelings. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Battalion Chief Jason Kay Guest: Driver Engineer Jason Patton of Fire Department Coffee Link: 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb Link: Ventura Foundation Webinar Series Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

Brian Russo, a battalion chief for FDNY, shares his experience of 9/11 and the aftermath. He discusses the chaos and devastation of that day, the loss of colleagues and friends, and the survivor's guilt he experienced. Russo highlights the importance of mental health support for first responders and the stigma associated with seeking help. He also emphasizes the changes and improvements in command and control, communication, and training that have been implemented since 9/11. Russo's story serves as a reminder of the ongoing impact of the tragedy and the need for continued support and awareness. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Joe Booth from the Ventura Fire Foundation Guest: Battalion Chief Brian Russo of FDNY Link: Brian Russo's NYT Oral History Link: 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb Link: Ventura Foundation Webinar Series Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

In this conversation, Maggie Hernandez, associate marriage and family therapist and firefighter spouse, discusses the importance of recognizing personal responsibility in relationships and the need for couples to understand their own roles and boundaries. She emphasizes that marriage requires commitment and attention, comparing it to a job that deserves the same level of dedication as a career. The conversation also touches on the challenges of codependency and the importance of creating a supportive community for firefighters and their partners. Maggie highlights the significance of values in relationships and suggests that couples establish a mission statement to guide their actions and decisions. Plus, emotional support chickens! Hosts: Battalion Chief Jason Kay and Stephanie Kay Guest: Maggie Hernandez, AMFT Link: Mind Matters with Maggie Link: Ventura Foundation Webinar Series Registration Link: 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

In this episode, Oxnard Fire Chief Alex Hamilton and FDNY Lieutenant/Deputy Director, Counseling Service Unit Drew Kane discuss Transcendental Meditation (TM) and its benefits for firefighters. Drew shares his experience with TM and how it has helped him and other firefighters. Alex emphasizes the importance of taking care of mental health and encourages firefighters to have an open mind about different tools and practices. They address skepticism and highlight the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of TM. The conversation explores the implementation of TM in the fire service and its potential benefits for firefighters' mental health. They also touch on the availability of TM training through The David Lynch Foundation. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Battalion Chief Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire Foundation Guest: Chief Alex Hamilton from the Oxnard Fire Department Guest: Lieutenant / Deputy Director Counseling Service Unit Drew Kane from the Fire Department of New York City Link: 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb Link: Ventura Foundation Webinar Series Link: Resilient Responders Email: vin@davidlynchfoundation.org Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

In this conversation, the hosts interview two more firefighter paramedics as they come off probation, Ryan Vaughn and Connor Ryan-Fenwick. Ryan talks about his journey from being stabbed as a teenager to joining the Navy and eventually becoming a firefighter. Connor discusses his decision to pursue a career in the fire service and his experience working at Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District before joining Ventura City. The conversation highlights the importance of community and the different paths that lead individuals to the fire service. In this conversation, the firefighters discuss their experiences working in different fire departments. They compare the training programs, hiring practices, and call volumes of Rancho Cucamonga, Ventura, and Cal Fire. They also touch on the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and resilience in the face of challenges. Hosts: Firefighter Paramedic Jon Ellis and Battalion Chief Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire Foundation Guests: Firefighter Paramedic Connor Ryan-Fenwick and Firefighter Paramedic Ryan Vaughn of the Ventura City Fire Department Link: 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

In this conversation, our hosts interview two firefighters as they come off probation, Ryan Howell and Sam Stein. Sam shares his background in firefighting, including working for various departments in Illinois and Wyoming before joining the Ventura City Fire Department, as well as his volunteer work in Ukraine. Ryan talks about his time with Cal Fire in Riverside and his decision to join the Ventura City Fire Department to be closer to home. Both firefighters discuss the challenges they faced in their previous departments and the reasons why they chose to make a lateral move. They talk about the intense training under Captain Eric Mukes experienced during their probationary period. Hosts: Firefighter Paramedic Jon Ellis and Battalion Chief Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire Foundation Guests: Firefighter Paramedic Ryan Howell and Firefighter Sam Stein of the Ventura City Fire Department Link: Project Joint Guardian Link: Dr. Zemlock webinar Link: 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

Part 2 of a conversation with Ventura City EMS Administrator Heather Ellis, a former firefighter and firefighter's spouse, who shares her personal story of resilience and overcoming domestic violence. Heather discusses her background in the fire department, the injury that led to a career transition, and the impact of the injury on her home life. She also talks about recognizing the need for help and the importance of peer support. Heather shares her personal journey of being in a relationship with a firefighter who struggled with addiction and mental health issues. Heather discusses the challenges of leading her family through grief and the importance of rebuilding and finding resilience. She offers advice for those in similar situations, emphasizing the need to recognize warning signs and prioritize self-care. Heather also discusses the improvements needed in mental health support within the fire service. If you or someone you care about is a victim of domestic violence, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by texting “START” to 88788. If you or someone you care about is in crisis, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Battalion Chief Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire Foundation Guest: EMS Adminstrator Heather Ellis of the Ventura Fire Department Link: Our Webinar Series Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.

Part 1 of a conversation with Ventura City EMS Administrator Heather Ellis, a former firefighter and firefighter's spouse, who shares her personal story of resilience and overcoming domestic violence. Heather discusses her background in the fire department, the injury that led to a career transition, and the impact of the injury on her home life. She also talks about recognizing the need for help and the importance of peer support. Heather shares her personal journey of being in a relationship with a firefighter who struggled with addiction and mental health issues. Heather discusses the challenges of leading her family through grief and the importance of rebuilding and finding resilience. She offers advice for those in similar situations, emphasizing the need to recognize warning signs and prioritize self-care. Heather also discusses the improvements needed in mental health support within the fire service. If you or someone you care about is a victim of domestic violence, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by texting “START” to 88788. If you or someone you care about is in crisis, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Battalion Chief Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire Foundation Guest: EMS Adminstrator Heather Ellis of the Ventura Fire Department Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Text the show - feedback, guest suggestions, etc. Support the show ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Ventura Fire Foundation 2024.