Shows
True Emotion DadLetters to Zachary: A Father’s Raw Journey Through GriefSend us a textIn this deeply emotional and courageous episode of True Emotion Dad, host Laverne Friesen speaks with Jason Tuttle—a father who shares his soul-shaking experience of losing his 15-year-old son, Zachary. Born with rare medical conditions, Zachary required full-time care, which Jason lovingly provided as a stay-at-home dad for 12 years.Jason takes us through the unexpected and devastating morning of Zachary's passing, the immediate aftermath, and the complex emotions that followed—from trauma and anger to numbness and eventual healing.What began as a therapeutic journaling exercise beca...2025-07-161h 00
True Emotion DadPart 2. From Indoctrination to Liberation: Britton & Carolee Beckham’s Journey of Healing, Sovereignty, and Sacred UnionSend us a textIn Part 2 of this deeply transformative conversation, Britton and Carolee Beckham share what happened after they walked away from the Mormon church—and never looked back. What followed was a radical awakening journey that led them through psychedelic healing, emotional intelligence training, and an unraveling of deep childhood and relational wounds. They dive into the pain of repeated infidelity, the reclamation of spiritual and sexual sovereignty, and how they built a life guided entirely by their inner 'yes.'They take us inside their global healing pilgrimage—from burning their marriage cert...2025-07-091h 00True Emotion DadPart 1. From Religion to Revelation: Britton and Carolee’s Journey of Healing, Infidelity, and AwakeningSend us a textIn this powerful and emotional episode, Laverne Friesen speaks with Britton and Carolee Beckham about their upbringing in the Mormon church and the deep impact it had on their identities, sexuality, and marriage. From early indoctrination and rigid gender roles to religious expectations around sex and family, Britton and Carolee candidly share how their spiritual lives were shaped—and shattered.They reveal how the Mormon church failed to support them through the trauma of infidelity, and how those cracks became the catalyst for a deeper awakening. This is part one of a...2025-07-0247 minTrue Emotion DadRed Flag Academy - The Survival Guide You Were Never TaughtSend us a textIn this raw and revealing solo episode, Laverne Friesen introduces Red Flag Academy—a no-holds-barred crash course on recognizing the red flags of toxic behavior and emotional manipulation. Drawing from personal stories, hard-earned wisdom, and years of healing, Laverne breaks down subtle but dangerous patterns such as excessive charm, boundary violations, perpetual victimhood, DARVO, and more.He also debunks popular myths like the idea that "butterflies mean love" and shines a light on how our nervous systems warn us before our minds do...2025-06-1844 min
Vision Pros Live PodcastWhat's your vision? Laverne Friesen. Podcast Session 1.What's your vision? Laverne Friesen. Podcast Session 1.2025-05-1920 min
True Emotion DadFrom Grief to Greatness: Rachel's Journey of Loss, Love, and TransformationSend us a textIn one of the most deeply moving episodes of True Emotion Dad, host Laverne Friesen sits down with transformational coach, healer, and mother, Rachel Parland, to explore a journey shaped by unimaginable grief, unwavering resilience, and profound healing.Rachel shares the heart-wrenching story of losing her five-year-old son, Rocco — a tragedy that shattered her world and forced her to choose between drowning in despair or learning to swim in the depths of sorrow. What follows is a conversation that is raw, honest, and filled with wisdom born of pain, lo...2025-05-141h 06
The Meredith Patterson PodcastHealing Through Vulnerability with Laverne FriesenMy guest is someone who embodies resilience and authenticity. Laverne Friesen is a former law enforcement officer whose life has been shaped by incredible challenges—childhood abuse, a painful divorce, a mental health crisis—but rather than being broken by them, he chose to transform. Through his work as a peer supporter, public speaker, and the host of the True Emotion Dad podcast, Laverne is on a mission to shatter the stigma around mental health and masculinity. He’s showing others—especially men—that healing is possible, and that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a superpower. Thi...2025-05-0959 minTrue Emotion DadFrom Homeless to Hacker: Josh’s Journey of ResilienceSend us a textIn this episode of True Emotion Dad, host Laverne Friesen speaks with Josh M., host of the podcast From Homeless to Mansion. Josh shares his incredible journey from a childhood of homelessness and trauma to a successful career in cybersecurity. He discusses the impact of poverty on his upbringing, the challenges he faced with family dynamics, and the importance of mental health awareness. Josh emphasizes the power of storytelling and resilience, encouraging listeners to find hope and strength in their own struggles.TakeawaysJosh's story highlights the importance...2025-04-3059 min
True Emotion Dad"You’re Not Broken — You’re Healing": Julia’s Story of Trauma and TransformationSend us a textIn this episode of True Emotion Dad, host Laverne Friesen speaks with Julia, a somatic trauma and nervous system coach, about her journey of healing from decades of trauma, including experiences with narcissistic parenting and sexual assault. Julia shares her insights on the importance of boundaries, the impact of shame, and the necessity of open conversations about sexual education with children. The conversation delves into the complexities of trauma, healing, and the role of parenting in shaping healthy relationships and boundaries. In this conversation, Julia and Laverne explore the co...2025-04-231h 22True Emotion DadPredators Among UsSend us a textSummary: In this episode of True Emotion Dad, host Laverne Friesen engages in a profound conversation with Jacquie Aitken, a trauma clinician who has spent over 4 decades helping victims of abuse. They explore the complexities of trauma, the importance of healing, and the need for awareness and education surrounding sexual abuse. Jacquie shares her extensive experience in supporting victims and working with offenders, emphasizing the need for boundaries, empowerment, and the recognition of triggers. The discussion also highlights the alarming statistics surrounding sexual abuse and the societal stigma that o...2025-04-161h 05True Emotion DadHealing Through Loss: A First Responder's JourneySend us a textSummary In this episode of True Emotion Dad, host Laverne Friesen speaks with Rick Wennerstrom, a retired firefighter and paramedic, about his life experiences, including his childhood, career transitions, and the impact of personal loss on his mental health. Rick shares his journey through grief, the challenges of being a first responder, and the importance of empathy and compassion in his work. The conversation delves into the struggles with mental health and alcohol, highlighting the need for support and understanding in the face of trauma. In this conversation, Rick Wennerstrom shares...2025-04-091h 03True Emotion DadLetters From You to You: A Conversation With Award Winning Author Ellie LalibertéSend us a textSummary In this episode of The True Emotion Dad, Laverne Friesen engages in a profound conversation with Ellie Laliberté, an award-winning author and spiritual coach. They explore themes of healing, spirituality, and personal growth, delving into Ellie's journey from childhood to adulthood, her experiences with grief, and the importance of self-discovery. The discussion emphasizes the significance of understanding one's identity, the role of grief in personal transformation, and the beauty of detachment in finding peace. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their healing journeys and explore the deeper aspects of th...2025-04-0248 minTrue Emotion DadHealing Through Forgiveness: A Personal JourneySend us a textIn this episode of True Emotion Dad, Laverne Friesen explores the profound themes of healing, trauma, and forgiveness. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, he delves into the complexities of forgiving oneself and others, particularly in the context of childhood trauma and abusive relationships. Laverne emphasizes the importance of understanding one's emotions, setting boundaries, and the role of ancestral healing in the journey towards forgiveness. He also introduces the Hopinopono prayer as a tool for reconciliation and self-forgiveness, encouraging listeners to embrace their emotions and work towards personal peace.Takeaways2025-03-2649 minTrue Emotion DadSynchronicities, Healing, & The Power of ConnectionSend us a textIn this powerful episode, Laverne Friesen shares deeply personal stories of trauma, healing, and the search for a higher power. Drawing from his experiences in law enforcement and healthcare, he reflects on the synchronicities that have shaped his spiritual journey. Laverne recounts two life-changing moments where divine timing led to unexpected healing—and perhaps even saved a life.🔹 How childhood trauma can lead to mental health struggles 🔹 The tragic loss of a young girl and its lasting impact 🔹 The role of synchronicity in our lives 🔹 Why trusting your instincts is cruc...2025-03-1924 min
True Emotion DadBreaking The Silence: Finding Hope in DespairSend us a text"I was saved by a 3-year-old angel."Summary In this episode of True Emotion Dad, Laverne Friesen shares his personal journey through a prolonged mental health crisis, detailing the events that led to his struggles with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. He discusses the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly in the context of law enforcement, and emphasizes the importance of seeking help and understanding childhood trauma. Laverne shares his experience of betrayal and abandonment, when those closest to him refused to help. He highlights the role of connection...2025-03-1240 min
True Emotion DadBreaking Free: Childhood TraumaSend us a textEpisode SummaryIn this powerful episode of True Emotion Dad, Laverne Friesen shares his deeply personal journey through childhood trauma, religious abuse, and the long road to healing. He opens up about growing up in a closed society that shaped his mental health and self-worth, the lasting scars of familial abuse, and the role of forgiveness in reclaiming his life. With raw honesty, Laverne explores the importance of recognizing trauma, practicing self-compassion, and finding gratitude—even in the darkest moments. His story is one of resilience, transformation, and the un...2025-03-0534 min
A Chat with Jay "Remove your Mask, Write your Story, Authentic Opinions, Views & Stories"Ep 51 Part 1 with Laverne Freisen from CanadaJourney of a Whitefeather.. Remove the mask and write your story.....its time to live nowMy Journey has inspired me to be a motivational speaker, healer, author and mentor using my bat belt of gifts, my contagious energy and inspiration to help you find your purpose & yourselfToday I talk to Laverne Friesen from CanadaLaverne says in his pre interview ..."I am an "accidental" life coach who is passionate in helping others love themselves. I say accidental because after a prolonged mental health crisis, stressful divorce, and an unplanned career change...2025-03-0533 min
True Emotion DadBreaking the Silence: My Journey to HealingSend us a text"I never felt safe, physically or emotionally"In this debut episode of True Emotion Dad, Laverne Friesen opens up about his personal journey through mental health struggles, childhood trauma, and healing. He dives into the stigma surrounding mental health, his experiences with abuse in a religious community, and the emotional toll of a law enforcement career. Laverne shares insights on self-discovery, inner child healing, and the lessons he's learned from relationships. Join him as he creates a space for open conversations, healing, and personal growth.🎧 Chapters:00:00 Introduction to True Emotion Dad...2025-03-0314 min
Forgive and ThriveFnT 174: Why ending mental health stigma matters more than ever with Laverne FriesenIn today’s episode, we talk with Laverne Friesen, who is on a mission to raise awareness about the damaging effects of mental health stigma. We delve into the critical importance of ending mental health stigma and its profound impact on our lives and society. Drawing from personal experiences and real-life stories, we explore how stigma prevents individuals from seeking help, affects employment and productivity, and the benefits of supportive work environments, affects relationships and leads to social isolation, and even influences our physical health. We touch also on the role of advocacy and education in changing perceptions and re...2024-12-0456 min
Healing for Male Survivors with Mike Chapman50 - Live Interview with Laverne FriesenLaverne Friesen is on a mission to raise awareness on the harmful effects of the stigma that surrounds mental health. After surviving a prolonged mental health crisis, he was pulled back from the brink of suicide by the love and presence of his children. In an incredible journey of post-trauma growth, Laverne has triumphed over the effects of being raised in a cult, experiencing childhood physical and sexual abuse, abusive relationships, and a traumatic career in law enforcement. With an unwavering commitment to personal growth, he has transformed his life after trauma, heartbreak, and a career-ending psychological injury. Now...2024-12-031h 05
The Mental Health MixtapeEpisode 14: From Darkness to Light – Laverne Friesen’s Story of Resilience and RedemptionJoin host Ryan Collyer as he sits down with Laverne Friesen, whose life journey is a powerful testament to resilience, healing, and transformation. Laverne’s diverse path spans roles as a first responder, a farmer, and a worker in Northern Canada’s energy development industry. But beneath these experiences lies a story marked by deep trauma—including childhood violence and emotional abuse—that eventually led to an occupational stress injury and a mental health crisis. Silenced by stigma, Laverne fought alone against depression and anxiety until he finally sought professional help.
Through intensive therapy, Laverne began to heal and...2024-11-191h 04
A Chat with Jay "Remove your Mask, Write your Story, Authentic Opinions, Views & Stories"Ep 15 Part 1 with Laverne Friesen from Canada ; A Chat with Jay "Remove your Mask, Write your story"Journey of a Whitefeather.. Remove the mask and write your story.....its time to live nowMy Journey has inspired me to be a motivational speaker, healer, author and mentor using my bat belt of gifts, my contagious energy and inspiration to help you find your purpose & yourselfToday I talk to Laverne Friesen from CanadaLaverne says in his pre interview ..."I am an "accidental" life coach who is passionate in helping others love themselves. I say accidental because after a prolonged mental health crisis, stressful divorce, and an unplanned career change...2024-11-0936 min
Journey to PurposeFrom Trauma to Transformation: Laverne Friesen on Mental Health and HealingLaverne Friesen shares his profound journey from a traumatic childhood marked by abuse and a controlling upbringing to a successful career in law enforcement, which ultimately led to a mental health crisis. Through therapy and self-discovery, he learned to embrace his emotions, find empathy, and transform his pain into purpose. Now a personal coach and mentor, Laverne emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help and creating safe spaces for others to share their struggles. His story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the ongoing journey of healing.TakeawaysLaverne's childhood was marked by...2024-11-071h 07
Raw MindsRaw Minds S2 Ep. 9 - Escaping the Cult, Defending the Law: A Man's Fight for FreedomIn this deeply moving and powerful episode of Raw Minds, Laverne courageously shares his story of survival, pain, and eventual hope. Raised in the tightly controlled environment of a cult, Laverne was subjected to sexual abuse that haunted him well into adulthood. Despite escaping the cult, he found himself trapped in emotionally abusive relationships, and although he built a career in law enforcement, his path took a devastating turn when a psychological injury ended his career.
During this dark period, Laverne faced a prolonged mental health crisis, struggling with suicidal thoughts for months, too terrified to speak...2024-10-251h 40
Nobodies Are Somebodies PodcastEpisode 0000261: Laverne FriesenIn this week's episode, I'm speaking with Laverne Friesen, a former law enforcement officer and a survivor of childhood abuse. After experiencing a prolonged mental health crisis, a divorcee, forced career change and heartbreak, Laverne transformed his pain into personal growth. Now as a transformational coach, Laverne helps others find personal empowerment, deeper connections, and fulfilling relationships. This is Laverne's story! Laverne Friesen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaverneFriesen97 On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@trueemotionhealing?lang=en Website: www.trueemotion.ca2024-08-2044 min
Nobodies Are Somebodies Podcast with Chad ViceEpisode 0000261: Laverne FriesenIn this week's episode, I'm speaking with Laverne Friesen, a former law enforcement officer and a survivor of childhood abuse. After experiencing a prolonged mental health crisis, a divorcee, forced career change and heartbreak, Laverne transformed his pain into personal growth. Now as a transformational coach, Laverne helps others find personal empowerment, deeper connections, and fulfilling relationships. This is Laverne's story! Laverne Friesen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaverneFriesen97 On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@trueemotionhealing?lang=en Website: www.trueemotion.ca 2024-08-2044 min
Phoenix Wisdom: inspiring stories of transformation and triumph over suicidal ideation#59 - Rising Above: Overcoming Trauma and Finding Purpose with Laverne FriesenIn this episode of the Phoenix Wisdom podcast, host Janet Sandberg welcomes Laverne Friesen, a former law enforcement officer and child abuse survivor whose lifetime of trauma took him to the brink of suicide during a prolonged mental health crisis. Saved by the presence of his young children, Laverne sought help when he realized he could no longer fight through on his own. He has embraced healing and self-discovery and has finally learned to love himself for who he is.
Laverne's story is a compelling testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of seeking help. From...2024-08-1448 min
Personal Development Trailblazers PodcastUncover Your Subconscious Drivers with Laverne Friesen
Welcome to the Personal Development Trailblazers Podcast! In this episode, we'll explore the subconscious motives that influence your life, helping you gain insight and control over your choices.
Laverne Friesen is on a mission to raise awareness about the damaging effects of mental health stigma! After surviving a prolonged mental health crisis and the depths of despair, he was pulled back from the brink of suicide by the love and presence of his children.
In an incredible journey of post-traumatic growth, Laverne has triumphed over the...2024-08-0715 min
You're Not The Only OneWhat if your escape from a cult was just the beginning?Born into a cult a boy endures horrific acts of abuse that follow him into his career in law enforcement.“Just knowing someone reached out to help me, because they could see something was going on with me it was like a golden hug from the universe. I knew now without a doubt that I was not alone. I knew I could do this, that there was hope”
Today's guest featured Laverne Friesen. If you would like to reach out to Laverne you can email him at laverne@trueemotion.ca. He also has a news...2024-07-2850 min
Real Men Feel with Andy GrantBreaking the Stigma of Mental Health | Men Hurt and Can HealSometimes, the bravest thing you can do is ask for help. Men face a stigma about that, too.My guest today is Laverne Friesen. He is a former first responder who is passionate about raising awareness around the stigma of mental health after experiencing his own mental health crisis. Now, as a transformation coach, Laverne shares the wisdom he gained from his traumatic experiences to help others live fulfilling lives.Laverne shares his experience as a sexual abuse survivor in a fundamentalist family who went on to become a police officer and hid his mental...2024-07-1353 min
Our People: Holdeman Mennonite StoriesA Voice from Crooked Creek: Laverne's Story of Resilience and HealingJoin us as we delve into the life journey of Laverne Friesen. Born into the Holdeman Mennonite community in Crooked Creek, Alberta, Laverne shares his candid experiences of growing up within and eventually stepping away from the Church of God in Christ Mennonite. This episode explores the complex tapestry of faith, personal growth, and the arduous path to healing from religious trauma.
Discover how Laverne confronted challenges from his upbringing, questioned deep-seated beliefs, and navigated through significant life changes—from moving across Canada to reassessing his spiritual and mental health. He also touches on the sensitive subject of...2024-04-211h 27
Real Men Don't Cry. Or Do They?17- Healing from abusive mother and suicidal thoughts -Laverne FriesenIn this immensely powerful episode, Laverne shares the challenges an abusive mother left him with to navigate as a man. He went through a time in his life where he had planned out his suicide, and it was his daughter that helped him realize he needed to find a way to stay alive.
Laverne Friesen is a former law enforcement officer who, after decades of being stuck in victimhood, transmuted painful lifetime events into opportunities for growth and healing. He is committed to constant growth and is passionate about helping others find and recover their power.
TikTok / Instagram @trueemotionhealing
www...2024-04-0151 min
UpTalk PodcastS8E11: Laverne Friesen | Former Law Enforcement Officer | Mental Health Advocate | True Emotion ApparelWelcome Laverne Friesen back to Feb podcasts. We chat about the incredible journey he has been on since his last appearance here. Absolutely incredible. Blessed to be a part of this conversation. You can still get your tickets for the Education Days in Halifax. Visit www.tema.foundation for all of the info. Find UpTalk wherever you get your podcasts. If you Listen on @applepodcasts please take a second to leave a review. UpTalk Season 8 is presented by The Tema Foundation www.tema.foundation Sponsored by Before Operational Stress (B...2024-03-121h 26
Inspire Me PodcastLaverne's journey through a mental health crash that lead him down a spiritual path to his true self.
Laverne Friesen is a former Firefighter & Law Enforcement Officer whom was forced into therapy after having a mental health crash that took him to the brink of suicide.
Laverne embraced therapy and began to peel back the layers, that a lifetime of trauma had built up, around his true self. In the process Laverne discovered that we all suffer, and began to question “What are we doing to each other?”
Laverne’s journey of recovery took him places that he would have never imagine. Now, trained as a reiki healer and a yoga teacher, Laverne believes that his pu...2023-03-2250 min
UpTalk PodcastS5E21: Laverne FriesenMeet Law Enforcement Officer, and former Volunteer Firefighter, Laverne Friesen. This episode is dedicated to Senior Firefighter Joshua Spilman. Subscribe, Listen, and Share! #UpTalkSeason5 #OwnYourGrowth #MoreLoveLessJudgement2020-08-181h 44
SAMatters RadioMental Health Mayday - The Verne and Chancy Friesen Story - Part 2Contact Us www.SAMatters.com www.RichGasaway.com 612-548-4424 (office) 651-331-8518 (cell) Get connected with SAMatters Facebook: Follow SAMatters LinkedIn: Follow Rich Gasaway Twitter: Follow Rich Gasaway Instagram: Follow SA_Matters Youtube: Subscribe to SAMattersTV Itunes: Subscribe to SAMatters Radio Stitcher Radio: Subscribe to SAMatters Radio Google Play: Subscribe to SAMatters Radio iHeart Radio: Subscribe to SAMatters Radio...2020-03-1055 min
SAMatters RadioMental Health Mayday - The Verne and Chancy Friesen Story - Part 1 Laverne Friesen was a guest on Episodes 301 and 302, talking about his mental health near-miss. Upon the completion of the recording, he mentioned to me that his wife has a powerful story to share about how this journey has impacted her and their relationship. This is their joint mental health mayday story. You may want to also go back and listen to his previous interview which contains many additional details not included in this interview. Show Notes Contact Us www.SAMatters.com www.RichGasaway.com...2020-03-0351 min
SAMatters RadioA Mental Health Mayday. The Laverne Friesen Story – Part 2 Laverne Friesen spent his career in a variety of first responder positions in Alberta, Canada. His experiences include healthcare, volunteer firefighter and a sworn law enforcement officer. This has exposed him to the best and worst of what people do to themselves and to others. After his battle with mental illness, Laverne committed himself to starting conversations to destigmatize mental illness in first responders, which has led to the realization that the issues plaguing the emergency services applies to the public at large. Laverne is trying to raise awareness ar...2020-01-0755 min
SAMatters RadioA Mental Health Mayday. The Laverne Friesen Story Laverne Friesen spent his career in a variety of first responder positions in Alberta, Canada. His experiences include healthcare, volunteer firefighter and a sworn law enforcement officer. This has exposed him to the best and worst of what people do to themselves and to others. After his battle with mental illness, Laverne committed himself to starting conversations to destigmatize mental illness in first responders, which has led to the realization that the issues plaguing the emergency services applies to the public at large. Laverne is trying to raise awareness ar...2019-12-3153 min