Police culture, addiction, and redemption: John Kelly's powerful story. What happens when addiction, shame, and silence threaten to destroy a law enforcement marriage? John Kelly, a 30-year veteran and author of Surviving Self-Inflicted Wounds, shares how accountability, seeking help, and choosing honesty saved his life and relationship.

👉 In this episode, you'll hear:

How police culture can normalize destructive habits

The impact of addiction and avoidance on marriage and family

Why strong relationships are the #1 resilience factor for officers

What redemption looks like after self-inflicted wounds

How officers and spouses can break the silence and ask for help

👩‍⚕️ I'm Cyndi Doyle — licensed professional counselor supervisor, retired police spouse, and author of Hold the Line. My passion is helping law enforcement couples protect their relationships while navigating police culture.

📖 Grab my book: Hold the Line → https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Line-Protecting-Enforcement-Relationship-ebook/dp/B08TPRTY9G#customerReviews

🎤 Book me to speak: https://code4couples.com/training/

00:00 Welcome & intro to John Kelly 04:00 The meaning of "self-inflicted wounds" 09:00 How police culture normalizes destructive behavior 17:00 Seeking help without shame 23:00 Marriage struggles & breaking the cycle of avoidance 30:00 Addiction, infidelity, and hitting rock bottom 36:00 Why strong relationships protect officer wellness 44:00 John's redemption and the role of coaching 50:00 How to connect with John Kelly