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E951 Why Some First Responders Secretly Hope for a ‘Big Call’ | Tactical Living Podcast
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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). 🔎 Episode Overview: Some calls give you stories. Some give you scars. And for some first responders, the thrill of a high-stakes situation is part of what makes the job so addicting. But what happens when that mindset starts creeping into your off-duty life… or becomes the only thing that makes you feel alive? This episode explores the adrenaline-driven mentality in first responder culture—why it develops, what risks it carries, and how to channel it in healthier ways. 🚨 5 Signs You’re Subconsciously Craving a “Big Call” 1. You Feel Bored or Antsy on Routine Days Example: You find yourself annoyed with quiet shifts or “boring” calls. Why It Matters: Constant craving for chaos can numb your ability to find value in routine service. 2. You Use Humor or Bravado to Mask the Craving Example: Joking about “needing a good fight tonight” or “hoping for a foot pursuit.” Why It Matters: These seemingly harmless comments may reflect a deeper need to feel alive or purposeful. 3. You Chase the High Off Duty Example: Reckless driving, risky hobbies, or thrill-seeking behavior during downtime. Why It Matters: Unchecked adrenaline addiction can bleed into personal life and relationships. 4. You’re Only “On” During Chaos Example: Feeling disengaged until something dangerous happens—then suddenly hyper-alert. Why It Matters: Emotional regulation gets hijacked, leaving you emotionally flat outside of emergencies. 5. You Struggle After Retirement or Injury Example: Depression or frustration when the action stops and life slows down. Why It Matters: A full identity built around chaos leaves a void when it’s gone. 🛠️ 5 Ways to Balance the Thrill with Emotional Well-Being 1. Recognize the Rush for What It Is Acknowledge that part of the job feels exciting—but don’t let it define your worth or purpose. 2. Seek Healthy Sources of Challenge Pursue hobbies or physical challenges (like jiu-jitsu, hiking, CrossFit) that give you the same adrenaline hit without the danger. 3. Talk About the Mindset with Trusted Peers Open up about the rush and what it means to you. You’re not the only one—and talking about it normalizes processing it. 4. Practice Emotional Regulation Techniques Mindfulness, journaling, or breathwork can help retrain your nervous system to feel present—even without chaos. 5. Redefine Your Purpose in the Job Shift your focus from high-octane moments to long-term impact—like mentorship, service, or leadership. 🎯 Why This Episode Matters Loving the action doesn’t make you a bad cop or firefighter—but depending on it for fulfillment can be dangerous. 🎙️ Listen now to learn how to stay sharp, stay grounded, and build a career that lasts—thrill or no thrill.
💥 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: [email protected] 📫 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 400115, Hesperia, CA 92340 🔗 Ashlie’s Facebook: facebook.com/police.fire.lawenforcement
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