In this inspiring episode Audra and Chelsi sit down with Fire Captain Andrea Binley, a trailblazing female firefighter who proves you can have it all—your career, dreams, and family. Starting her journey as a Fire Explorer with Upland Fire Department at just 19, Andrea has climbed the ranks from firefighter/paramedic to Captain, all while balancing motherhood and a blended family.

Andrea shares her experiences as a female firefighter in a predominantly male field, the challenges of co-parenting with a firefighter schedule, and what lit the spark inside her to become a firefighter. A passionate advocate for diversity and mentorship, she has developed programs like the DREAM committee (Diversity, Recruitment, Equity, and Mentorship) and the Girl’s Empowerment Camp, supporting and mentoring the next generation of women in firefighting.

We discuss online criticism in the firefighting community, being the subject of firefighter memes, and advice for firewives who may feel uneasy about female firefighters in their departments.

Follow Andrea:

instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welcometothelionsden/

or

https://www.instagram.com/firelifemomwife/

Key Topics Covered

• Andrea Binley’s career journey from Fire Explorer to Captain

• Balancing motherhood and a firefighter’s demanding schedule

• Supporting diversity and mentorship in firefighting through the DREAM committee

• Empowering women in firefighting through the Girl’s Empowerment Camp and Women’s Fire Alliance

• Navigating a blended family as a firefighter and mom Step Parent Coaching Course: https://www.mindykylecoaching.com

• Handling online bullying and firefighter memes

Books Mentioned

The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks

Atomic Habits by James Clear

It's Okay to Be the Boss by Bruce Tulgan

Leadershift by John C Maxwell

Everything Is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo