S1. E8. Why Building a Supportive Village is Crucial- with Kristen Hampson

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