If burnout has become your normal, this episode gives you the tools to step out of survival mode and reconnect to what matters. Burnout in law enforcement doesn't have to be a life sentence — small shifts can create real change.
In this conversation, Cyndi and trauma therapist/author Yolanda Harper unpack what burnout really looks like inside law enforcement homes: nervous system overload, emotional disconnection, overfunctioning, compassion fatigue, and the pressure to "just keep going." They explore practical ways to reset your mind and body, reconnect with your people, and build micro-moments of joy that support long-term resilience. You'll learn simple permission-based tools, nervous system reset practices, and how to create intentional routines that reduce burnout for both officers and spouses.
Hosted by Cyndi Doyle, licensed professional counselor supervisor, author of Hold the Line, retired police spouse, and founder of Code4Couples®, this podcast brings real-life tools for keeping law enforcement relationships connected and healthy.
📘 Grab Cyndi's book "Hold the Line" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Line-Protecting-Enforcement-Relationship-ebook/dp/B08TPRTY9G#customerReviews
🎤 Book Cyndi for department trainings, keynotes, or workshops:
https://code4couples.com/training/
00:00 – What burnout feels like in law enforcement families
02:15 – The pressure to overfunction and "just keep going"
05:40 – When you realize you're disconnected from your body
10:12 – Duty to others vs. duty to yourself
14:30 – The hidden cost of chronic stress on health & relationships
18:00 – Nervous system overload and emotional shut-down
23:45 – Why asking for help feels so difficult
28:10 – Micro-moments of joy and nervous system reset techniques
34:00 – How intentional practices protect your relationship
45:20 – The "permission slip" method
50:55 – The Perfect Day exercise
57:30 – Burnout relapse and recovery
1:02:00 – Final thoughts & resources
