Carry On Fire Family

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 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 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 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

In this episode The Salty Paramedic shares his journey from a shy firefighter to a social media sensation, discussing the importance of humor in the fire service, the impact of his books on relationships and mental health, and his aspirations for the future, including a podcast and a horror novel. He emphasizes the need for first responders to prioritize mental health and the evolving landscape of support within the profession.TakeawaysSalty Paramedic gained popularity through relatable and humorous content.His books focus on personal growth and relationships for first responders.Humor is essential for coping with the challenges of the fire service.Social media has provided him with a platform to help others.He emphasizes the importance of finding one's 'why' in life and career.Mental health awareness in the fire service is improving over time.He aims to leave a positive legacy for his family and colleagues.The Salty Paramedic is also venturing into podcasting to reach a wider audience.He created a party game for first responders as a fun outlet.His future projects include a horror novel about a paramedic.Order Salty Paramedic's books and merch here: https://thesaltyparamedic.com/Follow @saltyparamedic and @carryonfirefamily on Instagram. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Salty Paramedic01:27 The Rise of Salty Paramedic05:12 Books and Their Impact10:47 Finding Your Why21:28 Mental Health in the Fire Service25:08 Legacy and Future EndeavorsKeywordsSalty Paramedic, firefighter, mental health, humor, books, podcast, first responders, relationships, social media, EMS

SummaryIn this conversation, Missie shares her experiences as a fire wife, discussing the challenges and shifts in her life since her husband joined the fire service. She emphasizes the importance of connection during his absences, the multifaceted role she plays in her family, and how she balances her creative pursuits with motherhood. Missie also offers advice for other fire wives, highlighting the need for resilience and self-care, and reflects on the lessons learned through her journey.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:50 Life as a Fire Wife05:59 Maintaining Connection During Absences08:40 The Role of a Fire Wife11:40 Building a Social Media Presence14:43 Juggling Family and Creativity17:41 Advice for Struggling Fire Wives20:43 Lessons on Resilience23:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections