The George Family Beneath the Helmet: A Proud, Proud Look at Fire Service Family Life
The George Family Beneath the Helmet: A Proud, Proud Look at Fire Service Family Life
Season 4 • Episode 100
This milestone episode of Beneath the Helmet is unlike any other.
For the Season 4 opener and 100th episode, Arjuna George sits down with the people who lived the fire service alongside him every day. His family.
In this deeply personal conversation, Arjuna’s wife of over 30 years, Cathy, and their two adult children, Billy and Monica, share what it was really like growing up in a fire service household. From fire hall picnics and Easter egg hunts to late-night pager calls, COVID uncertainty, burnout, and early retirement, this episode explores the unseen side of service.
This is not a tactical episode.
It’s a human one.
Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome to Season 4 and Episode 100
01:00 – Introducing the George family and why this episode matters
02:00 – Cathy shares her experience as a fire service spouse
03:00 – Billy and Monica introduce themselves
04:00 – Did the kids ever consider public safety careers?
06:00 – Fear, safety, and growing up around emergency response
08:00 – COVID and the moment service felt different at home
09:30 – Cathy on hearing the pager and the weight of uncertainty
11:00 – Popcorn nights, boundaries, and survival routines
13:00 – Growing up as “fire hall kids”
15:00 – Fire hall picnics, Easter egg hunts, and community
18:00 – What the fire service taught the family about leadership
20:30 – Time, sacrifice, and what families give up
23:00 – Teen years, driving, and unspoken fear
27:00 – Understanding the human side of first responders
30:00 – Burnout, stress leave, and early retirement
34:00 – Family reflections on healing and change
38:00 – Lessons learned about work, life, and balance
42:00 – Pride, loss, and moments that still stand out
45:00 – What fire service families do well
48:00 – Final reflections and closing thoughts
Guest Information
This episode features members of the George family.
Why This Episode Matters
Beneath every helmet is a home.
Behind every call is a family adjusting, adapting, and holding space.
**Beneath the Helmet is Sponsored by Silver Arrow Coaching** Coaching the Fire Service Leadership. Visit us at www.silverarrowco.com
This conversation offers an honest look at pride, sacrifice, burnout, connection, and the strength of families who serve alongside first responders, without wearing the uniform.
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Host Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)
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Stay well.
Arjuna George
Human-Husband-Father-Former Fire Chief
Connect with the Host:
Arjuna George – Fire Chief (ret) Owner of Silver Arrow Coaching and Consulting, Beneath the Helmet Show, and Burnt Around the Edges author.
www.silverarrowco.com
www.burntaroundtheedges.com
www.beneaththehelmet.ca
Podcast Host, Author, Fire Chief Ret, Coach
Arjuna George, Retired Fire Chief, Burnout and Resilience Coach, Author, Podcast Host
Arjuna George is a retired fire chief with over 24 years of dedicated service. Now the owner of Silver Arrow Coaching and Consulting, Arjuna specializes in Burnout and Resilience Coaching for high performers, including first responders, doctors, nurses, parents, and teachers. His holistic approach integrates body, mind, and spirit, providing a comprehensive framework for health and resilience.
As a former fire chief, Arjuna brings a deep understanding of the unique challenges and stresses faced by those in high-pressure professions. His passion for leadership, mental health, and organizational behavior, coupled with his wealth of knowledge and experience, makes him an invaluable resource for listeners seeking practical advice and inspiration. A certified TRE (Tension Releasing Exercises) provider, he aligns this powerful tool with his coaching to help individuals effectively release stress and tension from their bodies.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the fire service, Arjuna has been awarded Honourary Life Membership to the Fire Chiefs' Association of BC, a testament to his outstanding leadership and commitment to the firefighting community.
Arjuna is also the author of Burnt Around the Edges—A Guide to Mastering Stress and Surviving Burnout, which offers practical tools and insights for regaining control over one's nervous system and finding joy in life. He aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to thrive, … Read More
Mom of 2 and Wife of Podcast Host Arjuna George
