In this episode of After the Tones Drop, Erin and Cinnamon take on a question from a hotline caller who is a newly minted 21-year-old firefighter who's asking something we don't hear often enough: “Should I even start drinking when I see what it does to everyone around me?”
We know how it goes in the first responder world—drinking is practically a rite of passage. But what if it doesn’t have to be? What if you could dodge the hangovers, the regret, and the potential slide down a very slippery slope? That’s exactly what we’re getting into today.
Erin and Cinnamon dive deep into a hot-button issue: alcohol use and its place in the culture of first responders. They're calling out the BS, like how not drinking can sometimes make you feel like an outsider or a “pussy” just because you’re smart enough to know the risks. They’ll also tackle some big questions—like, is swearing off booze just another extreme response to trauma, or is it a sign of wisdom beyond your years?
And let’s talk boundaries—real boundaries. The kind that make people think twice before giving you grief for choosing not to drink. Erin and Cinnamon are here to tell you that being proactive about your mental health isn’t just okay—it’s essential. They’re laying it all out there: the good, the bad, and the ugly about why so many first responders use alcohol to cope, and why it’s perfectly okay if you don’t want to be another statistic.
Plus, they’ll share a few laughs and stories about how they stay sober, stay sane, and still manage to be the most entertaining people in the room—without a drop of alcohol.
Whether you’re someone who’s already sworn off the sauce or just thinking about cutting back, this episode’s for you. It’s real talk, straight from the heart of the first responder community, with a mix of humor, hard truths, and no-nonsense advice.
So, grab a coffee, a mocktail, or whatever the hell you like, and tune in. Trust us—you don’t want to miss this one.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):
