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Not all competition is healthy—especially when it's happening behind the badge. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton pull back the curtain on the unspoken rivalries, silent resentment (Amazon Affiliate), and morale issues that creep into first responder culture when rank becomes personal. If you've ever felt tension with teammates over promotions, recognition, or seniority, this one's for you.
Laughter is a survival skill in this job (Amazon Affiliate) but sometimes, it's also a shield. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the fine line between coping and covering up, showing how sarcasm, dark humor, and constant banter can signal unprocessed pain beneath the surface.
You're trained to defuse tension on the job (Amazon Affiliate)—so why does a simple disagreement at home turn into a standoff? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton bridge the gap between professional de‑escalation skills and healthy conflict resolution in marriage, showing how the same mindset that keeps calls from going sideways can also keep love and respect alive at home.
What happens when everything that once defined you—your marriage, your faith, your strength, your career—gets stripped away (Amazon Affiliate)? We're honored to welcome Rick Cheatham, retired Anaheim City Fire Captain turned transformational life coach, to the Tactical Living Podcast. Rick's life story is not just powerful—it's a roadmap for anyone facing unimaginable pain. From battling addiction that nearly destroyed his marriage… To enduring the unthinkable—the brutal murder of his 23-year-old son… To facing paralysis after a fall during retirement… Rick has walked through fire—literally and emotionally—and emerged with a message that every first responder, spouse, and human soul needs to hear.
It's easy to say you're “too busy” or “too tired” because of the job. But what if the truth is… you're hiding? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton dive into the hard truth about how the uniform can become emotional armor—and how some first responders use it to avoid dealing with what's going on at home (Amazon Affiliate), in relationships, and within themselves.
It doesn't happen overnight. But one shift, one betrayal, one broken promise at a time—and suddenly you're angry all the time (Amazon Affiliate). In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton unpack the slow, corrosive build-up of bitterness in first responders—and how frustration with the system, leadership, or public perception can quietly eat away at your sense of purpose.
You may never open up to a therapist… but your dog already knows how you're feeling (Amazon Affiliate). In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the deep emotional connection between first responders and their pets—and why animals often become silent partners in the journey through trauma, stress, and healing.
Surrounding yourself with people who “get it” feels safe—but what if it's also keeping you stuck (Amazon Affiliate)? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the Echo Chamber Effect—how always being around fellow first responders can unintentionally limit your growth, reinforce unhealthy coping mechanisms, and make it harder to see the bigger picture.
“We can't let the public see this.” But what if keeping it all behind the curtain is doing more harm than good? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton dive into the uncomfortable reality of over-sanitizing the job—and how hiding the full weight of what first responders experience may be limiting public understanding, trust, and genuine support.
You turned in your gear. You walked out the door. But why does it feel like something died? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore why retirement from law enforcement (Amazon Affiliate) or fire service often feels like heartbreak—and what it takes to rebuild a new identity, purpose, and sense of belonging on the other side.
You signed up to serve. But no one warned you how much it would hurt to miss the moments that matter most. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the hidden emotional cost of working holidays year after year (Amazon Affiliate)—and how it slowly chips away at connection, tradition, and even self-worth.
You're married to the badge (Amazon Affiliate)—and to each other. But what happens when those two worlds start pulling in opposite directions? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the tension that builds when your law enforcement career starts to conflict with your marriage—and how to protect both without losing either.
“I'll handle it.” It's a mindset that feels honorable—but often becomes isolating. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton challenge the myth that you have to solve everything on your own (Amazon Affiliate) —and explore what happens when the “lone wolf” mentality becomes more harmful than heroic.
If the job ended tomorrow—who would you be? In this deeply reflective episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the personal identity crisis many first responders face when their sense of self is completely wrapped in the badge… and what it means to start building a life that has purpose (Amazon Affiliate), meaning, and value beyond the uniform.
The tools are there. The support is available. But many officers still don't reach out. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore why so many first responders are afraid to use their Employee Assistance Program (EAP)—and how to shift the culture of silence around seeking help (Amazon Affiliate).
You wore the badge with pride. Maybe your father did too. But what happens when your child decides to take a different path? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the emotional impact of legacy pressure—and how to process it when the next generation doesn't follow in your professional footsteps.
Why them and not me? It's a question that haunts many first responders after tragic calls. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton open up the conversation around survivor's remorse (Amazon Affiliate)—the silent guilt that creeps in when you walk away from something others didn't.
Your spouse wants to support you—but do they need to hear everything? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the delicate balance between honest communication and emotional dumping in first responder marriages (Amazon Affiliate)—and how to protect your partner's peace without shutting them out.
You pack light (Amazon Affiliate)—but your emotional load tells a different story. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the deeper symbolism behind what first responders carry—from burn bags and go bags to emotional baggage that's harder to unpack.
Lifted trucks, blackout tint, thin blue line decals (Amazon Affiliate) —most civilians see a vehicle. But for many first responders, it's so much more. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down why your vehicle says more about you than you think—and how modifications often reflect deeper layers of identity, status, and the need for safety.
You're out of uniform, out of town, and officially off the clock—but your mind is still scanning exits and tracking threats (Amazon Affiliate). In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the mental battle of taking a true vacation as a first responder—and how to actually unplug without guilt, anxiety, or feeling like you've abandoned your post.
It's not in the manual—but everyone knows the rules. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton unpack the unspoken dynamics of locker room culture (Amazon Affiliate) in first responder life—how camaraderie is built, how conflict brews, and how the hidden code can shape everything from morale to mental health.
New partner. New shift. New unit. Whether it's voluntary or not, changing assignments (Amazon Affiliate) as a first responder hits harder than most people realize. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton dive deep into the emotional reset that happens during tactical transitions—and how to stay grounded when everything familiar is suddenly gone.
“I've got it.” It's a phrase many officers live by—but at what cost? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the hidden dangers of hyper-independence in first responder culture—and how this mindset, while rooted in strength and service, can quietly erode connection, trust, and emotional intimacy (Amazon Affiliate) in both professional and personal relationships.
Send us a text Gracias pastores Tony y Daly por la oportunidad de compartir la Palabra del Señor con los hermanos de Hesperia, CA. Felicidades por cumplir 2 años de aniversario como iglesia! Lo mejor está por venir!
You were trained to go hard, stay sharp, and always be ready. But what if the real power move… is doing nothing (Amazon Affiliate)? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the science behind rest and recovery—and why many first responders struggle with the idea that downtime is productive, not lazy.
“What if you don't come home?” It's the unspoken question your child may carry—but never ask. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore how to have age-appropriate, empowering conversations with your kids (Amazon Affiliate) about your job—without passing down fear, anxiety, or emotional distance.
You know how to take charge, stay calm, and lead under pressure (Amazon Affiliate). But what happens when you bring that same approach home—and your family becomes the next call you're trying to “fix”? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the emotional toll of being the first responder at home—and how to shift from tactical response to emotional connection.
Your shift partners know everything about you. You spend holidays together. You celebrate, mourn, and blow off steam as one unit. But what happens when your entire social life revolves around the department? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the risks of having all your relational eggs in one basket—and how to build connection outside the badge (Amazon Affiliate).
Another patch. Another flashlight (Amazon Affiliate). Another piece of gear you probably didn't need—but buying it felt good… for a moment. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton unpack the emotional drivers behind compulsive gear buying in the first responder world—and why it's often about more than just the gear.
You trained for it. You lived it. You gave everything to the job—until one injury took it all away. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the silent and often overlooked grief that comes with career-ending injuries and medical retirement (Amazon Affiliate). For first responders, the job isn't just a job—it's an identity. So when injury, illness, or medical retirement forces that chapter to close, what's left behind is often grief no one talks about. This episode dives into the emotional, psychological, and spiritual toll of losing the career you loved—not by choice, but by circumstance. If you've felt lost, angry, numb, or invisible after leaving the job due to injury… you're not alone.
“You're a hero.” “Thank you for your service.” For many first responders, those words don't land the way civilians think they do. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton unpack why praise can feel so uncomfortable (Amazon Affiliate)—and what's really happening under the surface when you find yourself deflecting a compliment. Praise is meant to honor your service—but for some, it brings on guilt, awkwardness, or even resentment. Whether it's because of survivor's guilt, imposter syndrome, or simply being conditioned to stay humble, deflecting compliments becomes a habit… and one that might be robbing you of meaningful connection. In this episode, we explore the psychology behind discomfort with praise, and how to respond in a way that honors both your service and the person expressing gratitude.
In uniform, you're trained to lead, suppress emotion, and never let your guard down. At home, you're expected to engage, apologize, and emotionally connect. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down the silent damage caused when apologies go unsaid (Amazon Affiliate)—and how that emotional weight shows up long after the moment has passed.
In uniform, you're tactical, calm, and in control. At home, you're expected to relax, connect, and emotionally engage. Crucial Conversations (Amazon Affiliate) around this topic are difficult but necessary. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the mental strain of code-switching between your on-duty and off-duty identities—and how to bridge the gap without losing yourself.
Contingency planning (Amazon Affiliate) is second nature for first responders—but constantly living in "what if" mode comes at a cost. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the mental load of always having a backup plan—and how it affects decision-making, relationships, and long-term emotional health.
Rank is earned—but ego can ruin everything (Amazon Affiliate). In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton take a direct look at badge envy—the silent tension caused by rank, recognition, and competition within law enforcement and first responder departments. If you've ever felt overlooked, disrespected, or quietly judged, this conversation is for you.
When you're the one who always has it handled, the reward is often…more responsibility. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton unpack the concept of weaponized competence (Amazon Affiliate)—how being highly capable as a first responder (and at home) can quietly lead to burnout, resentment, and imbalance in your relationships.
The moment you put on the uniform, everything shifts. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down the psychology of how a badge and uniform change the way others perceive—and treat—you (Amazon Affiliate). From public interactions to family dynamics, you'll learn how to spot the hidden impact of your role and how to navigate it without losing yourself in the process.
A career in public safety is more than just a timeline—it's a collection of defining moments. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the critical events, wins, and regrets that shape who you become behind the badge (Amazon Affiliate). Whether you're just starting out or nearing retirement, this episode will challenge you to reflect on your own journey—and how each experience contributes to your personal legacy.
Silence can be deadly. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton address the real cost of staying quiet about mental health in law enforcement (Amazon Affiliate) and first responder culture. Learn how to break the stigma, create safe spaces for conversation, and lead by example—even if you're not in charge.
What happens when the people above you stop showing up for you (Amazon Affiliate)? In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton discuss how to recognize when leadership is failing—and what you can do to advocate for yourself without losing your professionalism, your purpose, or your sanity.
“What if today is the day something goes wrong?” For first responders, this mindset is part of the job—but it can quietly chip away at your peace (Amazon Affiliate). In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down how to balance tactical readiness with mental clarity so you can stay sharp without becoming consumed by worst-case thinking.
Not all addictions look like rock bottom (Amazon Affiliate). In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the subtle ways first responders can spiral—without even realizing it—through overworking, excessive fitness, gambling, or emotional numbing. Learn how to recognize the red flags of unhealthy coping and take back control before it becomes self-destruction.
Ever catch yourself hoping for action? You're not alone. In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton unpack the hidden psychology behind why some first responders crave high-adrenaline calls—and how to balance that urge without compromising your mental or emotional health (Amazon Affiliate).
Not all trauma shows up right away (Amazon Affiliate). In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore how past calls can quietly resurface and impact a first responder's daily life. You'll learn how to recognize the subtle signs of unresolved trauma—and how to finally process it in a way that promotes healing and long-term mental health.
Brotherhood is supposed to protect you—but what happens when it starts to silence you instead? In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the fine line between healthy camaraderie and toxic loyalty (Amazon Affiliate) in first responder culture—and how to know when it's time to walk away.
Law enforcement is no longer just about what happens on the streets—it's also about what happens on screens. In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down how social media is shifting public perception of police (Amazon Affiliate), and what that means for morale, recruitment, and the future of the badge.
There are fears many first responders carry—but rarely talk about. In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton reveal five common fears officers silently struggle with, and offer strategies to face them head-on with confidence, clarity, and support.