It’s hard to find balance in a high-stress career while managing everything else in life. That’s where Tactical Living Podcast comes in. Hosted by Ashlie Walton, a trauma recovery coach and tactical living expert, and Sergeant Clint Walton, this show offers practical advice for creating a well-balanced lifestyle, even amidst the demands of a first responder career. Three times a week, Ashlie shares insightful strategies on managing life’s challenges, such as what it’s really like to live as ...
…
continue reading
Ashlie Walton Podcasts
Join sisters Lindsay & Madison every Wednesday as we discuss the funny, strange, and obscure crimes of yesteryear. Proud member of the Colture and Cultiv8 Networks.
…
continue reading

1
E963 The Emotional Fallout of Missed Apologies in First Responder Culture | Tactical Living Podcast
10:39
10:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:39In 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 emotio…
…
continue reading

1
E962 From Special Forces to Breathwork In Bed With Tim Thomas
29:40
29:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:40🎖️ We're honored to welcome Tim Thomas — former Special Forces operator turned transformational speaker and wellness advocate — to the Tactical Living Podcast! 💥 During our interview, Tim guides us through a breathwork technique (Amazon Affiliate) that we can all access anytime that we want to. Tim has spent years on the front lines — both in comba…
…
continue reading

1
E961 Code-Switching: Who You Are at Work vs. Who You Are at Home | Tactical Living Podcast
11:10
11:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:10In 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 betwe…
…
continue reading
Lindsay and Madison discuss the “Haunted House” of Medora, Indiana, as well as why you shouldn’t sneak out to join the military, that grief comes in many shapes and forms, and why oral history is so important. Information pulled from the following sources 2023 Fishwrap blog post by Jenny Ashcraft 1999 Jackson County Banner article by Andy Proffet 1…
…
continue reading

1
E960 The Mental Load of the “Back Pocket Plan” | Tactical Living Podcast
10:42
10:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:42Contingency 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 e…
…
continue reading

1
E959 Badge Envy: Navigating Ego and Competition Within the Department | Tactical Living Podcast
9:05
9:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:05Rank 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, disrespe…
…
continue reading

1
Buried in Ash: The Tragedy of the Cagsawa Ruins
42:21
42:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:21Lindsay and Madison discuss the 1814 eruption of the Mayon Volcano, as well as why it’s not the best idea to live near an active volcano, that stratovolcanos can be both beautiful and deadly, and the storied history of Luzon. Information pulled from the following sources 2022 The Travel article by Aaron 2014 The Manila Times article 2009 BBC News a…
…
continue reading

1
E958 Weaponized Competence: When Being Good at Everything Becomes a Burden | Tactical Living Podcast
10:43
10:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:43When 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 …
…
continue reading

1
E957 The Psychology of the Uniform: How It Changes the Way You’re Treated | Tactical Living Podcast
10:08
10:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:08The 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 imp…
…
continue reading

1
E956 From the Academy to Retirement: Defining Moments in a First Responder’s Career | Tactical Living Podcast
10:19
10:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:19A 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 retireme…
…
continue reading

1
E955 The Cost of Silence: When First Responders Don’t Speak Up About Mental Health | Tactical Living Podcast
10:46
10:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:46Silence 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 …
…
continue reading

1
The Pimlico Mystery: Chloroform, Secrets, and a Victorian Acquittal
1:01:11
1:01:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:11Lindsay and Madison discuss the death of Thomas Edwin Bartlett, as well as why you should go to a quality dentist, why you should background check your doctors, and how not to procure poison. Information pulled from the following sources 2022 Historic Mysteries article by Lauren Dillon 2022 Mayfair Times blog post 2022 Providentia blog post by Dr. …
…
continue reading

1
E954 Who’s Watching Your Back? When Leadership Fails to Support You | Tactical Living Podcast
10:25
10:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:25What 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. 🔎 Episode…
…
continue reading

1
E953 The ‘What If’ Mindset: Staying Prepared Without Losing Peace of Mind | Tactical Living Podcast
11:31
11:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:31“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…
…
continue reading

1
E952 When ‘Coping’ Looks Like Addiction: Subtle Self-Destruction in First Responders | Tactical Living Podcast
10:45
10:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:45Not 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 contr…
…
continue reading
Lindsay is joined by Nora Koeppel, the daughter of author Adolf J. Koeppel to discuss his book, “The Lark's Call,” the gripping crime novel based on the Hinterkaifeck murders. Trigger Warning: This episode discusses incest. Underneath this crucifix, a peasant family of five and their maid lie in a family grave. All of them had their skulls smashed …
…
continue reading

1
E951 Why Some First Responders Secretly Hope for a ‘Big Call’ | Tactical Living Podcast
11:05
11:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:05Ever 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 yo…
…
continue reading

1
E950 The Ghost of Trauma: When Old Calls Still Haunt You | Tactical Living Podcast
11:57
11:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:57Not 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 m…
…
continue reading

1
E949 When ‘Brotherhood’ Becomes Toxic: How to Recognize Unhealthy Loyalty in Law Enforcement | Tactical Living Podcast
11:03
11:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:03Brotherhood 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. 🔎 Episode Overview: The bond betw…
…
continue reading

1
"Captain Kidd: A True Story of Treasure and Betrayal" with Samuel Marquis
1:03:53
1:03:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:53Lindsay is joined by author Samuel Marquis to discuss his book, “Captain Kidd: A True Story of Treasure and Betrayal,” which will be released on May 13, 2025, by Diversion Books. Captain Kidd has captivated imaginations for over 300 years and inspired many stories about pirates, but was he a criminal? Just how many ships did he plunder, how many me…
…
continue reading

1
E948 The Badge & The Algorithm: How Social Media Is Reshaping Law Enforcement | Tactical Living Podcast
11:29
11:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:29Law 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. 🔎 Episode Overvi…
…
continue reading

1
E947 Unspoken Fears: What First Responders Are Afraid to Admit—And How to Overcome Them | Tactical Living Podcast
10:41
10:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:41There 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. 🔎 Episode Overview: First responders are trained to face danger—but there are int…
…
continue reading

1
E946 Who Were You Before the Badge? How First Responders Can Reclaim Their Identity Outside of Work | Tactical Living Podcast
10:50
10:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:50When your job becomes your identity, everything else fades into the background. In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton guide first responders through the journey of rediscovering who they are beyond the uniform (Amazon Affiliate—so they can build a more balanced, fulfilling life. 🔎 Episode Overview: Law enforcement and first…
…
continue reading
Lindsay and Madison discuss the double homicide of John Walton and John Mathews, as well as why background checks into your lovers can be a great idea, that if someone says they’re going to kill you they probably mean it, and how to not get away with murder. Information pulled from the following sources 2022 Murder by Gaslight post by Robert Wilhel…
…
continue reading

1
E945 The Art of Saying No: Why Being Too Available Is Hurting First Responders | Tactical Living Podcast
10:56
10:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:56If you always say yes (Amazon affiliate), eventually something—or someone—pays the price. In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down why many first responders struggle to set boundaries and how learning to say no can protect your time, energy, and relationships. 🔎 Episode Overview: From mandatory overtime to endless f…
…
continue reading

1
E944 Tactical Decision-Making for Your Personal Life: Applying Law Enforcement Skills at Home | Tactical Living Podcast
10:35
10:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:35You’ve been trained to assess threats, make fast decisions, and communicate under pressure (Amazon affiliate)—but are you using those same tactical skills in your personal life? In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down how law enforcement training can improve your relationships, parenting, and home life. 🔎 Episode O…
…
continue reading

1
E943 When Your Family Is Done With Your Trauma: The Silent Fallout of Repeated Stress | Tactical Living Podcast
10:36
10:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:36First responders may not notice when their trauma begins to wear down the people they love most. In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the subtle signs that your family may be silently suffering (Amazon affiliate)—and how to reconnect before the damage becomes permanent. 🔎 Episode Overview: The stress of the job doe…
…
continue reading

1
The SS Princess Alice Disaster on the Thames
1:12:51
1:12:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:12:51Lindsay and Madison discuss the Princess Alice Disaster, as well as why passenger counts are so important, that there’s a reason for lifeboats, and that the Thames has always been as gross as you thought. Information pulled from the following sources: 2021 Geri Walton blog post 2021 Prisoners of Eternity blog post 2021 Royal Museums Greenwich artic…
…
continue reading

1
E942 The Power of War Stories: When Sharing Heals—and When It Hurts | Tactical Living Podcast
10:58
10:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:58First responders are natural storytellers—but some stories help us process trauma (Amazon affiliate), while others quietly reinforce it. In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the emotional impact of “war stories” and how to tell them in ways that heal rather than harm. 🔎 Episode Overview: Sharing stories from the jo…
…
continue reading

1
E941 Pancakes for Roger: Honoring Veterans Through Legacy and Love | Tactical Living Podcast
33:34
33:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:34Discover how one father’s simple wish for pancakes sparked a nationwide movement to support veterans and their families. In this special interview, Susan L. Combs shares how Pancakes For Roger became a heartfelt tribute—and how it’s now changing lives through advocacy, fundraising, and community action. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How a …
…
continue reading

1
E940 Numbing Out Off the Clock: How First Responders Can Break the Cycle and Reconnect
10:23
10:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:23Many first responders use screen time, alcohol, or isolation to “shut down” after their shift—but this numbing behavior (Amazon Affiliate) may be masking deeper emotional exhaustion. In this episode, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down how to spot the signs and offer practical ways to cope with stress in healthy, restorative wa…
…
continue reading

1
“Murder Ballads: Illustrated Lyrics & Lore” with Katy Horan
48:33
48:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:33Lindsay is joined by illustrator and author Katy Horan to discuss her book, “Murder Ballads: Illustrated Lyrics and Lore,” which will be released by Andrews McMeel on April 29, 2025. In this unique, illustrated collection, Literary Witches co-creator Katy Horan unearths the true and fictional stories behind twenty traditional murder ballads, explor…
…
continue reading

1
E939 Micro-Moments: The Tiny Decisions That Alter Your Career & Life
11:26
11:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:26In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton dive into the small, everyday decisions that have major consequences in a first responder’s career and life (Amazon Affiliate). Often, it’s not the high-profile cases or dramatic calls that define an officer’s career—it’s the split-second choices, th…
…
continue reading

1
E938 Why Some Officers Get the ‘Hero Complex’—and How to Avoid It
10:30
10:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:30In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore a psychological trap (Amazon Affiliate) that many first responders unknowingly fall into—the ‘Hero Complex' (Amazon Affiliate). The rush of saving lives, solving crises, and being the one everyone depends on can become addictive for some offi…
…
continue reading

1
E937 The Loneliness of Leadership: When No One Understands Your Position
11:25
11:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:25In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton dive into one of the least talked about struggles of leadership in law enforcement and first responder careers—loneliness (Amazon Affiliate). Moving into a leadership role comes with increased responsibility, difficult decision-making, and a shift in…
…
continue reading
Lindsay is joined by author Andrew Serra to discuss his book, “Hell’s Hundred Acres” about the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire. March 25, 1911. Hundreds of seamstresses are hard at work on the upper floors of a ten-story factory loft. The workday ends and Esther Greenberg stands from her sewing machine and heads for the stairs, looking forwar…
…
continue reading

1
E936 Overcoming Self-Doubt in the Academy: How to Push Through and Succeed
10:29
10:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:29In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Sergeant Clint Walton looks back on the challenges of police academy training (Amazon Affiliate) and the self-doubt that makes so many recruits want to quit. Whether it’s the mental pressure, the physical demands, or the overwhelming feeling of not measuring up, many cadets struggle with thoughts like…
…
continue reading

1
E935 Supporting Career Transitions: When a First Responder Changes Roles
11:01
11:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:01In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton dive into the emotional and logistical challenges that come with career changes within law enforcement (Amazon Affiliate) and first responder professions. For many first responders, a career shift can feel like an identity crisis. Whether it’s moving…
…
continue reading

1
E934 The Science of Negative Self-Talk: How It Affects Your Mind and Body
11:00
11:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:00In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the science behind negative self-talk (Amazon Affiliate) and why it’s far more than just words. Your brain listens to everything you tell it. The way you talk to yourself affects not only your mental resilience but also your physical health, …
…
continue reading

1
Märet Jonsdotter, the First Accused Witch of The Great Noise
49:39
49:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:39Lindsay and Madison end Wicked March Madness and discuss Märet Jonsdotter, as well as the ragers that Satan would host, that you shouldn’t trust the words of vindictive children, and how to stick to your guns. Information pulled from the following sources 2012 Listverse article by Jenna Ivy 2010 Portia Bridget blog post Find a Grave Wikipedia (1) S…
…
continue reading

1
E933 The Power of Acts of Service: Help Your Spouse For Stronger Relationships
11:12
11:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:12In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton dive into the impact of acts of service (Amazon Affiliate) in first responder relationships. When one partner works a high-stress, demanding job, small gestures of support can make a huge difference in reducing stress and fostering connection. Someth…
…
continue reading

1
E932 Finding Light in the Darkness: Lori Hodges’ Story
20:03
20:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:03🚨 LIVE INTERVIEW ALERT! 🚨 Join us for an incredible conversation with Lori Hodges—emergency manager, former paramedic and firefighter, and author of Shaking in the Forest: Finding Light in the Darkness (Amazon Affiliate). With over 30 years of experience in emergency services, Lori knows firsthand the emotional toll of high-stress professions. But …
…
continue reading

1
E931 Dealing with Discrimination as a Police Officer: On and Off the Job
11:28
11:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:28In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton tackle a frustrating reality that many officers face—being discriminated against simply for wearing the badge (Amazon Affiliate). In today’s climate, law enforcement officers often find themselves unfairly judged in both professional and personal set…
…
continue reading

1
"Violent Delights, Violent Ends" with Nicole Von Germeten
54:32
54:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:32Lindsay is joined by author Nicole Von Germeten to discuss her book, “Violent Delights, Violent Ends: Sex, Race, and Honor in Colonial Cartagena de Indias.” How did women fulfill their needs and desires in the seventeenth century? This book takes readers into the witches' sabbaths and spell-casting of Cartagena de Indias, a vibrant Caribbean port c…
…
continue reading

1
E930 The Power of Dressing for the Moment: Why Your Appearance Matters
10:53
10:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:53In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton break down the power of dressing for the moment (Amazon Affiliate) and why your appearance plays a major role in how people perceive and respond to you. Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with President Trump and VP Vance wearing a…
…
continue reading

1
E929 How to Deal with the Guilt of Missing Milestones and Family Events
9:56
9:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:56In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton tackle a challenge that hits close to home for many first responders: the guilt (Amazon Affiliate) of missing important milestones and family events due to shift work. Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, school recital, or anniversary, the demands of t…
…
continue reading

1
E928 Dig the Well Before the Water Runs Dry: Preparing for Your Future Now
10:34
10:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:34In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton unpack the powerful meaning behind the quote: "Dig the well before the water runs dry." Learn the importance of being prepared (Amazon Affiliate) for all of life's unexpected events. As first responders, you train for the worst-case scenarios, always…
…
continue reading

1
Old Mother Barnes: The Witch of Plum Hollow
48:35
48:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:35Lindsay and special guest, Ashley from Studying Scarlet and Pineapple Pizza, discuss the Witch of Plum Hollow, as well as how many children may be too many children, that reading tea leaves can be affordable and prophetic, and why you shouldn’t curse your neighbors butter churn. Information pulled from the following sources 2024 Arlene Stafford Wil…
…
continue reading

1
E927 Why Some First Responders Struggle with Civilian Friendships
11:03
11:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:03In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore a common but rarely discussed challenge for first responders: maintaining friendships (Amazon Affiliate) with people outside the profession. When your daily reality involves high-stress situations, trauma, and a unique sense of humor, it can …
…
continue reading

1
E926 The Cost of Always Being on Alert: How Hypervigilance Affects Home Life
10:52
10:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:52In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosts Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton explore the hidden toll that hypervigilance takes on first responders, their families and how to train your brain (Amazon Affiliate). Hypervigilance—the constant state of being on high alert—is a necessary survival tool on the job, but when it bleeds…
…
continue reading