Life Beside the Call: Honest Conversations with First Responder Spouses

What’s it REALLY like being married to a first responder? In this episode of the Maine Responder Podcast, Elliott and Billy sit down with Jill Belleard, Abi Brown, and Kristi Carr to discuss the emotional realities faced by first responder spouses and families. The conversation dives into isolation, communication struggles, burnout, marriage, parenting, hyper-independence, and the emotional weight carried beside the badge. The group also shares how Project Homefront was created and why peer connection for spouses and partners matters more than ever. This conversation is honest, vulnerable, relatable, and deeply important for anyone in law enforcement, fire, EMS, dispatch, corrections — and the families who support them. Topics include: • Communication after difficult shifts • Hyper-independence in responder families • Solo parenting and burnout • Marriage and resentment • Supporting the responder while maintaining your own identity • Why spouse peer groups matter • Building stronger relationships in first responder homes • Wellness beyond the responder Project Homefront | First Responder Spouse Peer Group Project Homefront is a peer group for significant others of first responders focused on connection, validation, communication, and growth. Whether you’re married to or partnered with someone in law enforcement, fire, EMS, dispatch, or corrections — this group was created to remind you that you are not alone. 📍 York County Regional Training Center 79 First County Way Alfred, Maine 🕕 Meetings are held once per month from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 2026 Meeting Topics January 25 — Exploring Values & Purpose February 22 — Attachment & Conditioning in Relationships March 29 — Getting Real with Finances April 26 — Game Night & Pajamas May 31 — Transitions from Work to Home June 28 — Communication: Do’s & Don’ts July 26 — All About Stress Reactions August 30 — Local Trail Walk (Dress Sporty) September 27 — What is “Parts Work” and How Can it Bring Insight? October 25 — Connecting with Past & Future Self November 15 — The “How” Behind Happiness December 20 — Game Night & Pajamas Connect With Project Homefront 📧 behindtheline.jill@gmail.com 📧 behindtheline.kristi@gmail.com 📧 behindtheline.abi@gmail.com