In this episode, Cyndi sits down with Kathy and Javier Bustos, "That Peer Support Couple," to discuss their experiences retiring from law enforcement as a dual-police couple. They share the emotional and practical challenges of leaving the badge behind, including identity shifts, relationship adjustments, and redefining purpose after decades of service.
Short Summary – What You'll Learn:
How Kathy and Javi transitioned from active duty to retirement
The impact of retirement on marriage and family life
Why identity shifts and grief are normal after leaving the badge
Tips for planning ahead and retiring "to something" meaningful
How they now serve first responder families through peer support & training
Hosted by Cyndi Doyle, founder of Code4Couples®, licensed professional counselor supervisor, author of Hold the Line, and retired police spouse. Cyndi helps first responder couples build resilience and protect their relationships.
📖 Grab Hold the Line: The Essential Guide to Protecting Your Law Enforcement Relationship → https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Line-Protecting-Enforcement-Relationship-ebook/dp/B08TPRTY9G#customerReviews
🎤 Book Cyndi to speak at your department, conference, or event → https://code4couples.com/training/
00:00 Intro
02:30 Kathy & Javi's law enforcement careers
07:00 Deciding when it's time to retire
15:00 Identity shifts & grief after retirement
22:00 How retirement impacts marriage dynamics
30:00 Peer support and serving after the badge
42:00 Advice for dual law enforcement couples
