In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down one of the toughest seasons for police, fire, EMS, and dispatch — the holidays.


While the rest of the world is slowing down, celebrating, and gathering with loved ones, first responders are gearing up for some of the most demanding, emotionally heavy, and schedule-breaking shifts of the year. From missed traditions to emotional exhaustion (Amazon Affiliate), the holiday season can bring a unique mix of guilt, pressure, and loneliness that most people will never understand.


This episode gives you a bulletproof, practical guide for protecting your mental health, staying grounded, and creating meaning — even when you're working through the holidays instead of celebrating them.


💡 Psychological Concept: Anticipatory Stress


Anticipatory stress is the tension that builds before difficult events happen — like knowing you'll miss Christmas morning, bracing for holiday-related calls, or worrying about disappointing loved ones.


For first responders, this stress often hits harder than the holiday itself. It amplifies irritability, emotional distance, and guilt.
Understanding anticipatory stress is the key to defusing it before it explodes into resentment or burnout.


🎄 5 Common Holiday Struggles for First Responders


Missing Traditions and Milestones
You're at the station while your family celebrates without you — again.


Emotional Whiplash From Holiday Calls
Domestic violence, overdoses, and car crashes spike during the season meant for joy.


Pressure to "Be Happy" When You're Drained
Everyone else expects cheer — you're running on empty.


Family Frustration You Don't Know How to Fix
Loved ones feel forgotten, even though you're serving the community.


Feeling Like an Outsider in Your Own Home
By the time you get time off, the holiday is already over.


🛠 5 Ways to Survive — and Even Enjoy — the Holidays


Create New Traditions That Fit Your Schedule
Celebrate on a different day, start a shift-friendly ritual, or plan a reset meal with your partner.


Communicate Honestly With Your Family
Replace "I'm sorry I can't be there" with "Here's how we'll make this special."


Use "Micro-Moments" of Joy on Shift
5-minute breathwork, gratitude notes, or a shared laugh with your crew can keep your spirit alive.


Set Emotional Boundaries Before Hard Calls
Ground yourself during breaks; acknowledge the toll instead of stuffing it down.


Plan a Post-Holiday Decompression Day
Reward yourself with rest, connection, and something meaningful after the chaos passes.


🎯 Why This Episode Matters:
You serve during the season everyone else takes for granted — and that sacrifice deserves space, understanding, and tools that support your heart.
You don't have to "just get through it."
You can survive it with intention — and even find moments of peace along the way.


🎙 Listen now to prepare your mind, protect your peace, and build a holiday plan that actually works for first responder life.

💥 Gear We Recommend for Our First Responder Community:
🛡️ Tactical storage made easy: STOPBOX – Buy One, Get One Free

🎯 Connect With Us:
✅ Join our Private Facebook Group for First Responders & Families
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube for behind-the-scenes content and live interviews
🌐 Visit LEOWarriors.com for coaching, resources, and more

💬 Listener Question:
What's one small act of service you can do today to honor someone who served? Let us know in the Facebook group or DM us on Instagram!

Disclaimer:
All viewpoints discussed in this episode are for entertainment purposes only and reflect our personal opinions based on our own experiences, background, and education.

🎙️ Want to be a guest on Tactical Living?
Send a message to Ashlie Walton on PodMatch → Click here

(Ad) Some product links in this episode may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. We only share products we genuinely believe in and trust.

📣 For PR, Speaking Requests, or Networking Opportunities:
📧 Email: ashliewalton555@gmail.com
📫 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 400115, Hesperia, CA 92340
🔗 Ashlie's Facebook: facebook.com/police.fire.lawenforcement