Dear Chiefs Podcast

Dear Chiefs Podcast


Latest Episodes

Unsung Heroes: Inside 911 Dispatching
December 16, 2024

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.

The Sophisticated Jake: Identity and Recovery After the Firehouse
December 09, 2024

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 r

How First Responder Couples Can Improve Intimacy: Insights from Experts Vanessa + Xander
December 02, 2024

Navigating intimacy and communication can be tough for first responder couples facing the demands of high-stress careers and unpredictable schedules. Thats why were thrilled to welcome Vanessa & Xander Marin to this episode! Known for creating one o

Exploring Wellness: Firewife Life, First Responder Health, and Supplements
November 18, 2024

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

Simplifying the Holidays: Genius Mom Hacks for First Responder Families
November 11, 2024

The holiday season can be stressful for anyone, but for first responder families, it can feel especially overwhelming. In this episode, were joined by Amy Motroni, founder of Genius Mom Hacks and Certified Life Coach, who shares her expert tips for reduc

Fair Play and Invisible Work with Eve Rodsky
November 04, 2024

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. Eves work introduces a revolutionary approach to managing domestic responsibil

First Responder Wife & Working Mom: Balancing Career, Family, and Fire Life
October 28, 2024

In this episode, we chat with Jenna Partlow, a fire wife married to a fire captain at the El Segundo Fire Department, whos 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

Overtime Guilt and Resentment: Why First Responders and Their Spouses Struggle with Saying No
October 21, 2024

In this episode, were 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 w

Navigating Crisis + Chaos for First Responders with Jeff Banman
October 14, 2024

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 fro

Kristina Moon on Love, Loss, and The Billy Moon Foundation
October 07, 2024

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 k