
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
Kristi Hilmer
We celebrate this First Responder life here. A place to be unapologetically you, and discover how other Firewives, or other First Responder wives are not just surviving but thriving. Together, let's dive into the wonderful, wild world of First Responder life! A place where we can share our stories of success, struggle, the messy middle, and all of the in between! If you are married/dating/engaged to a Firefighter, Paramedic, EMT, Military, etc this is the place for you! So let's dive in and have some fun!
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Top 10 Just a Girl and Her Firefighter Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Just a Girl and Her Firefighter episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Just a Girl and Her Firefighter episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Mom Rage Unplugged: Real Talk with Firefighter Wife Rachael
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
10/24/24 • 44 min
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter: Navigating Love, Challenges, and Community
In this episode of 'Just a Girl and Her Firefighter,' host Kristi Hilmer, together with guest Rachael and other speakers, explores the multifaceted experiences of being married to a firefighter. Topics include managing unpredictable schedules, coping with 'mom rage,' and the importance of accepting help from family and the community. The discussion offers practical strategies for balancing family life, addressing the emotional complexities of default parenting, and highlighting the necessity of self-care and mental health awareness. The episode also underscores the power of positive thought work, forming a supportive fire family, and the joys and sorrows of this unique lifestyle. Personal anecdotes reveal the resilience required and emphasize connecting with a broader community through social media. The hosts ultimately reflect on the enriching experiences made possible through online interactions and invite listeners to join their FireWife community, subscribe, share, and stay engaged in their journey.
00:00 Welcome to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
00:59 Meet Rachel: Life Coach and Firefighter's Wife
02:09 Rachel's Family and Firefighter Journey
04:24 Challenges of Firefighter Schedules
05:34 Managing Emotions and Seeking Support
06:42 The Importance of Thought Work
07:59 Balancing Family Life and Firefighter Duties
09:09 The Role of Community and Support Systems
16:08 The Default Parent Debate
20:56 Surprises and Joys of Firefighter Life
25:06 Understanding Mom Rage
25:55 Personal Stories of Struggle
26:51 The Importance of Seeking Help
28:35 Managing Thoughts and Emotions
29:40 Firehouse Pranks and Family Life
31:22 Murphy's Law and Parenting Challenges
36:42 Reflections on the Firefighter Lifestyle
39:25 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
You can find Rachael at https://www.instagram.com/rachaelchoate_?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!

Love Rekindled: A Firefighter Family's Journey to Reconnection
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
10/10/24 • 40 min
Surviving and Thriving: A Firefighter Wife's Journey through Life's Challenges
In this episode of 'Just a Girl and Her Firefighter,' Kristi Hilmer interviews her friend Heather, who shares her remarkable journey of integration into the first responder lifestyle. Heather talks about meeting her husband during EMT training, going through nursing school, and the challenges of blending families with eight children, including twins. They discuss their separation, subsequent divorce, and eventual reconciliation after deep self-reflection and coaching. Together, they now run 'Relationship CPR,' offering coaching to couples in high-stress jobs, emphasizing communication, self-understanding, and the importance of community support. The episode highlights the difficulties, triumphs, and transformations in first responder relationships, advocating the need for creating positive environments both at home and in the workplace.
00:00 Welcome to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
01:01 Meet Heather: A Journey into Healthcare and Family
02:07 Blending Families and Career Challenges
03:52 Navigating Parenthood and Career Transitions
06:38 Struggles and Separation
10:27 Reconciliation and Personal Growth
14:40 Balancing Independence and Partnership
19:31 Creating a Safe Space at Home
22:36 Personal Coaching Journey
24:32 Creating Relationship CPR
25:55 Challenges and Insights
27:09 Community and Support
28:49 Addressing Fire Service Issues
33:50 Resources and Outreach
34:49 Rapid Fire Questions
39:14 Final Thoughts and Gratitude
Interested in chatting with Heather at Relationship CPR? Email [email protected] and follow them on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/relationshipcprstat
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!

Community and Courage with Kaci Walden
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
02/13/25 • 39 min
Navigating First Responder Life: Firefighting, Family, and Community
In this episode of 'Just a Girl and Her Firefighter,' host Kristy Hilmer interviews Kaci Walden, a mother and wife living in the Texas Panhandle. Kaci shares her experiences of being married to a firefighter while raising two boys and working full-time. The episode delves into the impact of a devastating wildfire on their community, the emotional challenges of firefighter life, and the importance of communication and mental health. Kaci also talks about the support system within the fire service and the small-town community's unity during tough times. Tune in for heartfelt stories, practical advice, and a discussion on balancing family life with the demands of a first responder career.
00:00 Welcome to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
00:59 Meet Casey Walden: Life in Texas
02:36 The Devastating Wildfire Experience
04:41 Impact on Family and Community
17:49 Balancing Firefighter Life and Family
34:49 Fire Trivia and Fun Questions
39:38 Closing Remarks and Community Invitation
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!

The Life Behind the Mustache: Firefighter Fenton Unplugged Part 1
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
01/23/25 • 27 min
In this episode of 'Just a Girl and Her Firefighter,' host Kristi Hilmer chats with Firefighter Fenton and his wife Stephanie about life as a firefighter family. They discuss how their journey began, homeschooling their four children, and how the 'Firefighter Fenton' character was created by accident. The couple opens up about the challenges of balancing demanding jobs, family life, reintegration, and maintaining health. Stephanie shares her struggles and strategies for staying connected as a family, while Brett emphasizes the importance of transitioning smoothly between work and home life. They also talk about overcoming the overwhelming demands of Brett's role as a Public Information Officer. This heartwarming conversation is packed with insights, tips, and experiences from a couple dedicated to making it all work amid the chaos.
00:00 Welcome to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
00:59 Meet Firefighter Fenton and His Wife
01:28 The Origin of Firefighter Fenton
03:29 Balancing Family Life and Firefighting
04:52 Homeschooling and Flexible Schedules
09:05 Reintegration Challenges
14:32 Maintaining Health and Well-being
15:48 Leadership at Work and Home
23:14 Struggles and Overcoming Challenges
26:13 Next Week's Preview
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!

That's a wrap on Season 1
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
11/14/24 • 15 min
Navigating Transitions in First Responder Life
In the season finale of Just a Girl and Her Firefighter, host Kristi Hilmer reflects on the journey of creating a supportive community for firewives and first responders. She discusses the challenges and strategies for managing department transitions, sharing her personal experiences and offering advice on mental preparation, schedule adjustments, effective communication, and the importance of community. This episode aims to normalize and provide insights into the often isolating experiences of first responder families, emphasizing integrity, honesty, and support through change.
00:00 Welcome to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
01:12 Reflecting on Season One
02:47 Navigating Department Transitions
04:59 Preparing Mentally for Changes
07:22 Managing Schedules and Communication
10:58 The Importance of Community
14:01 Final Thoughts and Gratitude
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!

From High School Sweethearts to Fire Service Life: Ashley’s Journey
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
09/26/24 • 34 min
Navigating Firefighter Life: Conversations with Firewives
Join Kristi Hilmer on 'Just a Girl and Her Firefighter' as she interviews fellow firewife Ashley. They share personal stories, discuss the challenges and surprises of life in the fire service, and emphasize the importance of community and support. Together, they explore how to maintain a strong relationship and a positive outlook while navigating the unique lifestyle of being married to a firefighter. Enjoy insights into practical strategies, mentorship, and the lighter side of firehouse gossip.
00:00 Welcome to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
01:02 Meet Ashley: A Firewife's Journey
01:48 High School Sweethearts
02:41 The Car Accident That Changed Everything
04:41 From Banking to Firefighting
07:28 Fire Academy and Family Life
11:22 Surprises and Challenges in Fire Service Life
18:16 Balancing Family and Firefighter Life
19:02 The 'Who's More Tired' Game
19:34 Advice for New Firefighter Families
21:18 Understanding Love Languages
23:32 Firefighter Pranks and Surprises
26:16 The Cost of Firefighter Friendships
27:39 Navigating Firefighter Family Dynamics
30:58 Rapid Fire Questions
33:37 Conclusion and Community Invitation
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!

Behind the Sirens with Yasmina
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
09/19/24 • 35 min
Navigating First Responder Life and Postpartum Challenges with Yasmina
In this episode of 'Just a Girl and Her Firefighter,' host Kristi Hilmer chats with Yasmina, a fellow firewife married to the creator of the Williams Key. The conversation covers their personal stories, from meeting in high school to balancing family life with their husbands' demanding firefighter schedules. Yasmina shares her experience with postpartum challenges, the importance of community amongst firewives, and offers practical advice for managing the unique aspects of living with a first responder. The episode also touches on the significance of mental health, the power of faith, and maintaining personal identity while supporting their spouses.
00:00 Welcome to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
01:00 Meet Yasmina: The Firewife with a Celebrity Husband
01:58 A Decade of Love and Two Little Ones
03:38 Navigating the Fire Service Together
05:20 Supporting Each Other Through Bootcamp
07:20 The Importance of Communication and Debriefing
10:39 The Wild World of Hollywood Firefighting
14:15 The Power of Community Among Firewives
17:50 The Power of Social Media Connections
18:04 Struggles with Postpartum and Fire Life
21:40 Finding Support and Overcoming Challenges
24:12 Balancing Family and Firefighter Life
26:47 Funniest Pranks and Firehouse Stories
30:39 Rapid Fire Questions and Best Advice
33:56 Conclusion and Where to Connect
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!

From Missions to Community: A Firefighter Wife's Perspective
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
04/25/25 • 29 min
Building Community and Impact: Kristi Hilmer's Journey with Mission of Hope
In this episode of 'Just a Girl and Her Firefighter,' host Kristi Hilmer returns after a brief hiatus, sharing stories from her transformative missions trip to the Dominican Republic. She reflects on her experiences serving Haitian refugees with Mission of Hope and discusses the importance of community, connection, and giving back. Joined by her friend Miranda Burcham, they recount their journey in network marketing, the impact of Vision 90, and the race to provide 11 million meals for Haitians in need. Together, they highlight the power of collective effort in making a difference and the personal growth that comes from serving others.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:02 Recent Mission Trip to the Dominican Republic
01:54 Fire Wife Collective and Community Building
04:34 Introducing Miranda and Mission of Hope
06:16 Miranda's Journey with Mission of Hope
10:57 Race to 11 Million Meals
15:08 Experiencing the Impact of Aid in Haiti
16:17 The Importance of Helping Beyond Our Own Walls
17:02 Mission of Hope and Fire Families
17:28 Personal Stories and Lasting Impressions
18:40 The Power of Giving and Personal Growth
21:27 A Heartfelt Story of Loss and Hope
24:06 The Urgency of Aid and the Role of Mission of Hope
25:54 Encouraging Participation and Support
29:11 Conclusion and Call to Action
Learn about Mission of Hope Here: https://missionofhope.com
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!

Building Resilience: The Story Behind Everyday Heroes
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
10/17/24 • 71 min
Empowering Journeys and Building Community: Insights from Everyday Heroes
In this episode of 'Just a Girl and Her Firefighter,' host Kristi Hilmer is joined by Mitch Gourley, a firefighter and the founder of the Instagram community 'Everyday Heroes,' and his wife Markee. Together, they delve into their personal and professional lives, focusing on Mitch's aim to empower first responders and Markee's experience managing their demanding lifestyle. The couple discusses the pivotal role of communication and resilience in relationships, offering insights into navigating the stresses of firefighting and emotional hurdles. They share their growth stories and efforts in community-building while encouraging listeners to engage with the FireWife network. The episode also emphasizes the impact of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok in fostering supportive communities.
00:00 Welcome to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
01:00 Meet Our First Couple: Mitch and Markee
01:29 Life as a Firefighter: Mitch's Journey
03:50 Navigating the Firefighter Schedule
05:30 Living in Canada: Weather and Wildfires
09:16 The Birth of Everyday Heroes
18:50 Balancing Personal Growth and Relationships
26:21 Maintaining Connection in a Busy Life
32:36 Handling the Hard Calls
37:12 The Impact of a Firefighter's Job on Family Life
38:29 Navigating Communication and Emotional Support
39:33 Personal Growth and Relationship Dynamics
43:53 Balancing High Achievements and Relationship Expectations
46:33 Advice for Those Facing Hard Times
55:25 Humorous Anecdotes and Pranks
01:03:34 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts
Follow Everyday Hero here https://www.instagram.com/everydayheroes.fitness?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!

The Life Behind the Mustache: Firefighter Fenton Unplugged Part 2
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
01/30/25 • 41 min
In this episode of Just a Girl and Her Firefighter, host Kristi Hilmer continues her conversation with Firefighter Fenton and his wife, Stephanie. They discuss the challenges of managing a demanding job while maintaining a healthy family life. Fenton shares personal experiences of realizing the importance of family over work, the pressures of overtime, and the turning points that led to prioritizing home life. The episode delves into the impact of the firefighter job on personal relationships and offers advice for new firefighters and their families. The couple also touches on the importance of self-care, community, and the invaluable lessons they've learned along the way. The episode concludes with some light-hearted anecdotes and rapid-fire questions, adding a touch of humor to their insightful discussion.
00:00 Welcome to Just a Girl and Her Firefighter
00:59 Recap of Last Week's Episode
02:08 The Struggles of Balancing Work and Family
03:42 A Turning Point: Prioritizing Family
04:08 Personal Stories of Sacrifice and Realization
05:04 The Impact of Overworking on Family Life
07:02 Making the Tough Decision to Step Back
12:54 Advice for New Firefighters and Their Families
20:35 Finding Community and Self-Care
25:04 Flipping the Script
25:11 Funny Stories from the Shift
26:11 Parenting Mishaps
31:18 Rapid Fire Questions
36:46 Best Life Advice
40:50 Conclusion and Farewell
Join our Community- The FireWife Community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/firstresponderwife/
Find me on IG
https://www.instagram.com/our.firstresponder.life/
Snap a screenshot when you listen and tag us!!!!
And of course, subscribe and share with all your friends!
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FAQ
How many episodes does Just a Girl and Her Firefighter have?
Just a Girl and Her Firefighter currently has 14 episodes available.
What topics does Just a Girl and Her Firefighter cover?
The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Society & Culture, Podcasts, Firefighter and Military.
What is the most popular episode on Just a Girl and Her Firefighter?
The episode title 'Community and Courage with Kaci Walden' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Just a Girl and Her Firefighter?
The average episode length on Just a Girl and Her Firefighter is 36 minutes.
How often are episodes of Just a Girl and Her Firefighter released?
Episodes of Just a Girl and Her Firefighter are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Just a Girl and Her Firefighter?
The first episode of Just a Girl and Her Firefighter was released on Sep 5, 2024.
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