In this powerful and deeply human episode, Chris sits down with Christopher Littrell — Christian, husband, father, U.S. Air Force veteran, retired police officer, endurance athlete, leadership consultant, and author of Echoes from the Street: A Police Officer’s Journey through Trauma, Recovery, and Redemption. This conversation reconnects two men who first spoke when Coach Chris was transitioning out of the military. They open with reflections on uncertainty, purpose, and how meditation, breathwork, and running helped him navigate that crossroads. From there, the episode dives into the defining chapters of Officer Christopher’s life and career: Military Service & Leaving the Air Force Why he joined, what the military taught him, and the hard decision to leave so he could be more present for his growing family. Civilian Policing & the Emotional Toll The stark shift from military law enforcement to civilian policing — increased authority, higher stakes, deeper trauma — and why emotional intelligence became essential for survival. Trauma, Grief & Sobriety Christopher opens up about PTSD, alcohol abuse, and the devastating loss of his daughter, Danielle. He shares the rawness of grief, the breaking point that brought him to seek help, and the healing journey that followed. Emotional Intelligence & Leadership Now a leadership and wellness consultant, Christopher teaches the skills he wishes he’d had earlier: • Self-awareness • Empathy • Emotional regulation • Responding rather than reacting Endurance Sports & Post-Traumatic Growth Triathlon and endurance training became a lifeline — a way to rebuild confidence, face internal battles, and discover what resilience really means. Closing Reflections The conversation ends with a discussion about vulnerability, faith, community support, and the ongoing work of healing. Christopher shares his “billboard message,” a reflection of his deepest belief in love, acceptance, and faith-driven redemption. Who This Episode Is For: First responders, veterans, leaders, parents, or anyone carrying invisible weight. This is a conversation about trauma, faith, identity, emotional intelligence, marriage, grief, resilience, and the work of rebuilding a life after everything falls apart. Connect with Christopher Littrell: Website: christopherlittrell.com Book: Echoes from the Street Gravity Consulting & Training Gravity Podcast Instagram / LinkedIn Connect with Coach Chris Norris: cognitivefitnesscoach.com | IG @cognitivefitnesscoach We would LOVE to hear from you!! Send a Text Here!!! Asking for reviews and ratings Support the show We really appreciate your support of this small, but mighty podcast, and we would really appreciate a review, and a rating to help us spread the message of mental fitness. Please consider visiting us at www.cognitivefitnesscoach.com for free resources, and a place to book a free consultation with myself; no strings attached, no cringy sales pitch.
