Law enforcement marriages face unique pressures. In this episode, therapist and veteran Dana Strickland introduces the Spartan Spouse mindset — a powerful way for police spouses and first responder couples to thrive with respect, resilience, and connection.

Episode Summary: This episode introduces the concept of the Spartan Spouse with therapist and veteran Dana Strickland. Drawing from military and law enforcement culture, Dana explains how couples can strengthen their relationships by:

Practicing mutual respect in everyday interactions

Setting ground rules for conflict and communication

Honoring both independence and teamwork in marriage

Managing reentry after shifts and deployments

Fostering intimacy without losing individuality

I'm Cyndi Doyle, founder of Code4Couples®, licensed professional counselor supervisor, retired police spouse, and author of Hold the Line. My passion is helping law enforcement officers, spouses, and families strengthen their relationships and protect their connection.

📘 Grab my book 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

🎤 Want me to speak at your department, conference, or event? → https://code4couples.com/training/

00:00 – Introduction & guest intro 02:00 – What is a Spartan Spouse? 07:00 – Ground rules for conflict and communication 15:00 – Respect, needs, and boundaries in law enforcement marriage 25:00 – Reentry after shifts and deployments 35:00 – Mutual respect & independence in marriage 45:00 – How couples can apply the Spartan Spouse mindset 55:00 – Final thoughts & where to connect with Dana