S2. E3. The Firewife Guidebook with Elise Vermillion

S2. E3. The Firewife Guidebook with Elise Vermillion

From Carry On Fire Family by Audra Carrion

February 17, 2026 · 32 min · Season 2 · Episode 3

About this episode

Audra Carrion interviews Elise Vermillion about the emotional realities of being a fire spouse and offers practical advice for navigating the challenges of fire family life.

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 spouse Why isolation is more common than people admit How to build strong community within fire families Practical meal planning systems that actually work with shift life Coping strategies for loneliness and unpredictability The importance of regular “State of the Union” relationship check-ins How to strengthen communication when schedules don’t align This 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 HERE Follow Audra on Instagram @carryonfirefamily…

People in this episode

Host: Audra Carrion

Guest: Elise Vermillion

Topics covered

  • fire family dynamics
  • emotional support
  • community building
  • meal planning
  • coping strategies
  • communication

Keywords

  • fire family
  • fire wife
  • support
  • community
  • emotional learning curve
  • meal planning
  • coping strategies
  • motherhood
  • guidebook

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Firewife Guidebook

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