E1011 The Cost of Over-Accommodation in Law Enforcement: Calling Out PORAC

This episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosted by Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton, explores a common trap in both policing and leadership (Amazon Affiliate): the belief that you can be everything to everyone. While the intention often comes from a good place—wanting to serve, to represent, to protect—the reality is that spreading yourself too thin or trying to cover all sides usually backfires. Using recent events as a real-world example, we look at how the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) attempted to endorse both Republican mayoral candidate Chad Bianco and Democratic candidate Antonio Villaraigosa. Instead of broadening support, this “cover all bases” approach was met with backlash so intense that PORAC eventually had to turn off its comments. The lesson? Not making a decision is still a decision—and trying to please everyone often means you please no one. The “Everything to Everyone” Mentality in Policing Officers often feel the need to be a protector, counselor, disciplinarian, and community voice all at once. How this leads to overextension, blurred roles, and burnout. The Leadership Parallel: PORAC’s Political Endorsements Endorsing both sides was meant to keep the peace but created the opposite effect. Why trying to straddle the fence is often seen as disingenuous by the public and members alike. How This Backfires in Daily Law Enforcement Work Example: an officer trying to be a friend, disciplinarian, and problem-solver in one call. The public often perceives inconsistency or lack of authenticity. Personal toll: resentment, exhaustion, and identity conflict for the officer. The Hidden Costs of Over-Accommodation Loss of trust from those you’re trying to serve. Reduced credibility as a leader or officer. Mental health strain from always shifting roles and expectations. Remedies: How to Serve Without Over-Serving Clarity of Role: Know what you are there to do—and what you are not. Boundaries: Give yourself permission not to fill every role in every moment. Authenticity: Stand firm in your decisions, even when not everyone agrees. Communication: Explain your stance clearly instead of trying to appease both sides. Resilience Practices: Build systems (peer support, supervision, personal reflection) to guard against burnout when pressures to “be everything” arise. 🎯 Why This Episode Matters: Whether it’s on the streets or in the political arena, the temptation to cover every base is strong. But the truth is simple: leadership and service require clarity, not compromise. When you try to be everything, you risk losing credibility, trust, and even yourself in the process. 🎙️ Tune in now to learn how to serve with integrity—without falling into the trap of being all things to all people. 💥 Gear We Recommend for Our First Responder Community: 🛡️ Tactical storage made easy: STOPBOX – Buy One, Get One Free 🎯 Connect With Us: ✅ Join our Private Facebook Group for First Responders & Families 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube for behind-the-scenes content and live interviews 🌐 Visit LEOWarriors.com for coaching, resources, and more 💬 Listener Question: What’s one small act of service you can do today to honor someone who served? Let us know in the Facebook group or DM us on Instagram! Disclaimer: All viewpoints discussed in this episode are for entertainment purposes only and reflect our personal opinions based on our own experiences, background, and education. 🎙️ Want to be a guest on Tactical Living? Send a message to Ashlie Walton on PodMatch → Click here (Ad) Some product links in this episode may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. We only share products we genuinely believe in and trust. 📣 For PR, Speaking Requests, or Networking Opportunities: 📧 Email: [e-mail] 📫 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 400115, Hesperia, CA 92340 🔗 Ashlie’s Facebook: facebook.com/police.fire.lawenforcement