Triggered and True

Ep. (56) I Feel Like I Am Failing at This Feb 21, 2025

Whether you are new to The Compassion Method (TCM) or have been implementing the process for a long time, there will be moments when you feel like you are an epic failure. These are often associated with big, triggered reactions that you are not proud of. These big reactions might make you feel like the TCM process is not working or that you are doing something wrong. In this episode, Brian discusses a big “failure” that he had recently. Listen in as Laura guides him through it and helps him discover beauty in his perceived failure.

Ep. (55) The Knowledge of Good and Evil: The Root of All Pain Jan 20, 2025

In this thought-provoking episode of The Triggered and True Podcast, we delve into the profound story and significance of the two trees in the Garden of Eden. While Christian faith is not a requirement to understand these concepts, Christianity has undeniably shaped the perspectives shared in this episode.
We explore the human tendency to label things as good or bad and question whether we are truly capable of making such judgments.
The episode examines why the knowledge of good and evil is considered the root of all emotional pain. We discuss how this knowledge robs us of rest by keeping us in a constant state of processing and judgment. We also address the paradox that the knowledge of good can be just as detrimental as the knowledge of evil.
Listeners will hear about the concept that one cannot "eat from both trees" and how the knowledge of good and evil can act as a safety mechanism. Through personal anecdotes and theological insights, we explore how recognizing and relinquishing our need to judge can set us free from shame and anxiety.
Join us as we uncover how to live truly free by embracing compassion and love, and recognizing our inherent value beyond our actions. This episode is a journey towards understanding and liberation from the draining cycle of judgment.

Ep. (54) We will treat others how we treat ourselves Dec 20, 2024

Many of us know the Golden Rule: treat others as you would like to be treated. In this episode, we explore this concept from a fresh angle. The reality is, under pressure, you will treat others as you treat yourself. If you aren't kind to yourself, extending kindness to others becomes exhausting. Our treatment of others reflects the state of our inner world. Join us as we dive deeper and share insights that could transform your life.

(Ep. 53) Healing the Parent/Child Relationship Nov 15, 2024

Join us for a compelling discussion on healing the parent/child relationship. We'll explore where to start and why this journey can be so challenging. This episode is impactful for everyone, whether your parent is no longer with you or you're currently estranged. The parents/child relationship forms the bedrock of our lives, and its significance cannot be overstated.

(Ep. 52) If you have never had anyone be with you in the problem, you will medicate with the solution. Oct 18, 2024

In this episode we will expand your concept of “medication” and the importance of feeling our pain in the healing process. At the end we give a powerful example of how sexual addiction is a form of medication for the absence of one of the 10 Gifts. This episode truly has something for everyone.

(Ep. 51) Addressing TCM misconceptions Sep 20, 2024

In this episode we address some common misconceptions: What am I a doormat? Doesn't what they did matter? I am not triggered i'm just passionate! All of this focus on me seems selfish and more....

(Ep. 50) The Keys Aug 17, 2024

In this episode we discuss the "keys" to living your life to its fullest. Life is a precious gift and who you are is the extraordinary. These "keys" can help you be the person you were created to be and enjoy your life for the precious gift that it is!

(Ep. 49) Learning To Feel Your Emotions Jul 19, 2024

In this episode, we dive into the crucial skill of learning to feel our emotions and understand what they are trying to tell us. The Compassion Method™ process stalls without learning this crucial skill. Brian and Laura share from their personal experience as well as Laura’s professional experiences, helping countless others learn how to feel and connect with what is happening in their inner world.

(Ep. 48) Understanding the Connection Between Shame and Blame Jun 21, 2024

Have you ever felt misunderstood? How about disrespected? Please join us as Laura connects these common human feelings to shame and blame and highlights a pathway to empowerment and healing.

(Ep. 47) Connecting the Compassion Method™ to Your Faith (Part 3) May 31, 2024

This is the third installment of Laura and Brian continuing the discussion of how the Compassion Method™ can help you live your faith more authentically and shame-free.

(Ep. 46) Connecting the Compassion Method™ to Your Faith (Part 2) Apr 12, 2024

In this episode, Laura and Brian continue the discussion of how the Compassion Method™ can help you live your faith more authentically and shame-free.

(Ep. 45) Connecting the Compassion Method™ to your Faith Mar 22, 2024

In this episode, Laura and Brian discuss how the Compassion Method™ can help you live your faith more authentically and shame-free. They also discuss the strong impact Laura’s personal faith had on the development of The Compassion Method™ process.

(Ep. 44) How you can go deeper with the Compassion Method™ today Jan 15, 2024

In this special episode, Laura and Brian talk about the resources Laura has created for you to go deeper with the Compassion Method™ beyond the podcast!

(Ep. 43) What relationships look like on the other side of The Compassion Method Dec 15, 2023

In today’s episode, Laura and Brian discuss how the principles of The Compassion Method impact relationships with the people that are closest to you in your life. Also, they will share a different perspective on “toxic” relationships.

(Ep. 42) Guiding Adult Children Using The Compassion Method Process Nov 10, 2023

In this episode, Laura and Brian discuss what a parent's role is in their adult child's life and how the Compassion Method is a key part of the process.

(Ep. 41) Discovering Your TRUE SELF Oct 13, 2023

In this episode, Laura and Brian discuss discovering your TRUE SELF. Your True Self is who you were created to be. It is and has always been with you…..it has simply been covered up by pain and unmet need. In this episode, we discuss practical ways to discover who you are and how to live from this place of authenticity. You are an amazing gift to the world…..it’s time to discover just how amazing!
Exercise Downloads:
https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/exercises

(Ep. 40) What You do is NOT who you ARE. Sep 08, 2023

Join us in this episode as Laura and Brian share stories and truths about how the things you’ve done are not you’re identity; they are not who you ARE.

(Ep. 39) The Powerful Relationship between Joy and Pain Aug 11, 2023

In this episode, Laura and Brian discuss a topic that is often difficult to confront - the relationship between joy and pain. It's easy to assume that we can only experience happiness if we avoid pain at all costs, but the opposite is true. We can only experience true and lasting joy if we confront and learn to comfort our pain. Join us as we share an empowering perspective on the relationship between pain and joy!

(Ep. 38) Who’s the Victim, and who’s the villain? Jul 21, 2023

"In this episode, Laura and Brian explore the idea that there are no victims or villains in our lives. This may sound harsh and even hard to believe at first, but this truth has the power to set you free and to heal. By examining our pain through the Compassion Method and understanding the pain of others, we can begin to see ourselves and the people around us in a new light.

(Ep. 37) Discover These 4 Ways to Love and Care for Yourself Using the Compassion Method Jun 30, 2023

Laura’s teaching on the four ways we love ourselves is groundbreaking. As she examines each one, you will learn how to be a caretaker of your soul, and you will also see where you have hidden pockets of pain that are blocking you from loving who you are. You will find this episode to be very revealing and an essential component of your personal Compassion Method journey.

(Ep. 36) Applying The Compassion Method (TCM) to children and parenting Jun 09, 2023

A listener asks a question about how to engage her triggered child using the TCM approach. As usual, Laura’s response challenges us to think unconventionally and even go against what is our natural inclination. As a parent, or really anyone who is in a position of authority over others, it is easy to focus on the child’s behavior and ignore what is going on inside of ourselves.
Laura discusses how the most important thing we can do for our children is to learn how to be OK (clear minded, tender hearted, and at peace) even when our children are not. A wonderful byproduct of having this ability is that we will be able to stay connected to who our children are and not to their behavior. From this place of connection we can give our children the thing they need the most……for us to simply be with them. In this episode we will also discuss where are parenting styles originate from and what those styles tell us about what is going on in our “inner world”.

(Ep. 35) What happens when the pain is simply too BIG?!? May 19, 2023

Have you ever attempted The Compassion Method Process and felt “stuck” because your pain is just so overwhelming that you can’t move forward? Have you ever experienced emotional pain so intense that you felt like you were drowning? Is there a pain source from your past that you simply cannot return to in an effort to bring comfort? In this episode, we address these situations and how to utilize The Compassion Method process to meet your heart where it is at.

(Ep. 34) Learning to Comfort Grief and Identify its Hidden Forms Apr 28, 2023

When grief is not properly comforted, it can rob us of life. When properly comforted we can experience hope, peace, and joy.
In this episode, Laura and Brian walk through navigating grief, identifying its hidden forms, and learning how to bring comfort to our hearts.
Join us for episode 34 of Triggered and True!

(Ep. 33.) Emotions Are Not Your Enemy Apr 07, 2023

Many people believe and have been taught that feeling their emotions is wrong… That doing so can be harmful or is a sign of weakness. That they can’t be trusted and should simply be avoided and suppressed.
In this episode, Brian and Laura tackle this lie head-on and talk through the power of feeling emotions, and letting them guide you to where you are hurting, knowing that there is always hope……always!
You’ll want to listen through to the end as Brian shares a personal experience proving why emotions should not be suppressed but rather embraced as the powerful guide that they are.

(Ep.32) Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions Mar 17, 2023

It has been quite a bit since Brian and Laura answered our listeners questions on the show! This episode is all about you and your questions, throughout the episode we answer Laura's most frequently asked questions starting with, "How do I apply the Compassion Method when people are shaming me?"

FREE RESOURCE INCLUDED: "How Am I Seen?”

You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 31) The Psychology of Money Feb 24, 2023

Brian is a huge fan of the bestselling book by Morgan Housel, The Psychology of Money. However, he feels that chapter 3 of the book needs an addendum that discusses the connection between money and emotional health. In this episode, Brian & Laura create that addendum and you will not want to miss it!
You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 30) CM in the Marketplace - Do Our Protectors Increase Our Performance? Jan 27, 2023

“Your true self is a powerful force. Your true self can accomplish more in a minute than your triggered self can in a lifetime, but that is not the real reason to connect with your true self. The real reason is that you’re worth it.” - Brian Freise

Whether you connect with Brian or Laura's business journeys, which reveal their challenges, protectors, and triggers, you'll find confidence in your own journey through this episode. You'll soon discover that your true self isn't just for you, but for the world around you.

FREE RESOURCE INCLUDED: "How Am I Seen?”

You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 29) Navigating Manipulation, Narcissism, and Gaslighting Jan 06, 2023

Help, I’m being manipulated! During this episode, Brian and Laura discuss manipulation and our tendency to manipulate others, often subconsciously. Throughout this episode, we will learn how to use The Compassion Method as an offensive weapon against manipulation, narcissism, and gaslighting.
You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 28) Divorce and the Compassion Method Process Dec 16, 2022

Listen in to Laura and Brian's insightful discussion about compassion and divorce. They explore how compassion serves to hold back divorce's rising tide of regret and shame, allowing us to truly grieve and find life-long healing.

(Ep. 27) Revisiting Child Self Nov 25, 2022

Despite our pain, there is a glimmer of hope. This hope for comfort can be discovered by connecting with your child self, free from agendas. Based on a listener question, Brian & Laura explore our child self and how it compares with our true self. Also discussed are the challenges we may face connecting with our child self during certain seasons of life due to pain or trauma. As Brian and Laura guide you through this process, brain science points us in the right direction. Take the first step on your journey.

(Ep. 26) With Special Guest Anthony Bulau Nov 04, 2022

During this interview-style episode, Anthony Bulau shares his experience with The Compassion Method as well as interviews Laura and Brian about a variety of topics, including:

-How can you use The Compassion Method principles to handle frustration with your children?

-A guide for men examining their emotions and digging into the Compassion Method

-Why is it that the people we love the most trigger us the "best?"

-Plus more!
You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 25) The 10 Gifts (Part 2) Oct 14, 2022

We all have needs that need to be met in our lives. In this episode Brian shares, “The solution is not to fix, but to fill. Be filled with the gifts and the pain is comforted and eliminated.” These needs correlate to The 10 Gifts that Laura communicates as a foundational aspect of The Compassion Method. This episode will develop a greater understanding of The 10 Gifts and demonstrate practical applications that help redesign the potential end of your story despite your current circumstance or childhood upbringing.

(Ep. 24) Codependency Sep 23, 2022

Today's episode is framed, in part, by a listener's question regarding codependency. As a result of this discussion, you will gain a true understanding of codependency. Laura discusses the freedom she has found from codependency as well as a single question you can ask yourself to assess the impact of codependency on your current relationships.

(Ep. 23) Forgiveness and the Compassion Method Sep 02, 2022

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura explore how The Compassion Method helps us navigate the wilderness of forgiveness. A litmus test is discussed to identify our present phase of forgiveness. Laura and Brian also guide us through the process of feeling our pain, overcoming shame, and forgiving ourselves and others. You'll likely learn that this process of forgiveness is healthier and more effective than you’re used to.

(Ep. 22) True Self and Faith Aug 12, 2022

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:

An answer to listeners asking, “How does The Compassion Method connect to my faith?”
What does Laura mean when she says, “The Compassion Method does not require an adherence to any particular faith.”
How do we keep the core of our identity from getting wrapped up in an expression of our identity, i.e., mother, father, son, daughter, etc.?
Brian and Laura answer an enormous question, “Who is our true self, and what is our true identity?”
When we find ourselves lost and not knowing who we are, what’s the roadmap to our true selves?

(Ep. 21) The Trigger of Faith and Religion Jul 22, 2022

Religion is a major trigger for A LOT of people. It is a trigger in ways that you also might not expect. In this episode, we will discuss the triggering impact that religion has on both the religious and the non-religious. We will also review what a trigger is and how triggers can be a blessing in disguise.

You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 20) The Compassion Method in the Marketplace Jul 01, 2022

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:

A listener-question on the gift of enough and the role of protection in one’s journey
In the face of the “results matter” mindset in the workplace, how do we live Laura’s truth that “What you do matters, who you are matters more?" How do we navigate this as an employer?
Common triggers that come up in the workplace and how to identify them
How do we find health amid the lack of protection and security on our career journey?
The psychology of customer service and its tendency to fawn
Especially in the food service industry, how do we recognize the opportunity to bring comfort to ourselves in a moment of challenge, fear, or frustration?
The context of a “shame-high” especially in the marketplace
How do we navigate the pain and triggers of others while helping them to make a decision? What’s the impact of pain and fear in the sales process?

You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 19) The Compassion Method in the Context of Marriage & Relationships Plus Some Thoughts on Being Single Jun 10, 2022

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:

Laura’s approach to working with couples and how it differs from traditional marriage counseling.
Guidance for couples to see the heart or root issues.
Why do activities that encourage or sometimes force couples to connect sometimes miss the mark?
Laura breaks down her quote: “You can be the best person at learning how to communicate, but if you don’t know what to communicate, you will get nowhere.”
What roles do shame and blame have in our intimate relationships?
How do we recognize codependency and how is it affecting us?
A fresh perspective and encouragement for those who are single.

You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 18) Brian’s Healing Journey May 20, 2022

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:

How Brian ended up in Laura’s office for the first time and how he found himself on the path towards his great awakening.
Why do the words awareness, comfort, & discovery not only describe The Compassion Method but also how these words were brought to life for Brian during this process.
Brian shares four main protectors that he came face to face with, in his journey through The Compassion Method.
What steps can we take to discover the wound behind the pain and engage our adult brain providing us a new perspective?
Brian & Laura discuss The 10 Gifts, a core part of The Compassion Method, and how these have impacted Brian during the healing process.
How does The Compassion Method increase our capacity for love?

You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 17) Social Media & Emotional Health Apr 29, 2022

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:

The state of artificial intelligence as it affects our emotional health.
The documentary The Social Dilemma and the unintended consequences that have come with the rise of social media.
How the algorithms of today’s A.I. exploit our pain and unmet need, as well as the opportunity it presents to us.
The way that social media is a megaphone for the knowledge of good and evil.
How can social media become a medication for our emotional well-being?
Laura guides Brian through The Remote Control Exercise

You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 16) Answering Your Questions Apr 08, 2022

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura answer questions submitted by our listeners. Tune in to hear the discussion!
Questions include:

How does The Compassion Method work itself out in the context of my faith?
How do I journey through The Compassion Method in the context of marriage? How do I focus on myself, but also journey together as a couple?
If you and your spouse have two different attachment styles, what does reconciling look like?
How do I continue to live and thrive in community with others while growing in my emotional health?
How can Laura help when I feel disconnected from feeling or knowing myself as a child?
Is The Compassion Method a tool I can use for mental illness?

You can submit a question for a future podcast episode at https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask.

(Ep. 15) Deep Dive Into Famous Quotes from Laura Duncan (Part 2) Mar 04, 2022

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura take a deep dive into the following quotes from Laura:

“Your adult self is like a website, and your child self is your coding: change your coding and you change the website.”
“The bigger the trigger, the younger you are.”
“Every capital letter emotion is a child emotion.”
“The connection to who we are versus what we do heals shame.”
“You can’t hurt people or help people.”

(Ep. 14) Deep Dive Into Famous Quotes From Laura Duncan (Part 1) Feb 04, 2022

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura take a deep dive into the following quotes from Laura:

"What you do matters, but you matter more."

“Self-compassion starts with you, but ends in a party.”

"Feel your pain, get comfort, go play."

"In early childhood development, we need connection like we need food and water."

(Ep. 13) The Compassion Method™ for Students: An Interview With Students Laura Taught Jan 07, 2022

In this special episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura interview a group of students that have journeyed through The Compassion Method™. The interview spotlights the power of The Compassion Method™ when the process is learned at a young age.

(Ep. 12) There’s more to your story: experience a new life today as you navigate your protectors. Dec 03, 2021

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:

The definition and examples of protectors
Why doesn’t Laura encourage people to get rid of their protectors immediately?
How do we discover our true protectors?
Identifying our protectors: their connection with our triggered responses of flight, fight, freeze, & fawn
Engaging empathy with this newfound tool
What’s our goal in navigating our protectors?

(Ep. 11) Our Privilege in Pain: What You Haven’t Heard About Our True Self Nov 05, 2021

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:

If not to heal our pain, then what’s the goal of The Compassion Method™?
The link between true repentance and our true self
How Brian and Laura respond to triggers today, a before and after of implementing The Compassion Method™ Principles
Discovering pain as a privilege on the journey to our true self

(Ep. 10) 3 Practical Ways to Experience Joy and Heal Pain Oct 08, 2021

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:
-Practical ways to connect to our true self, which allows us to experience both: the fullness of joy and the healing of pain
-Brian and Laura share a preview of The Compassion Method™: Master Course currently available for pre-sale at compassionmethod.net
-What is the connection between living from our true self and connecting with others in an authentic way?
-An in-depth look at the childhood picture exercise provided for free at compassionmethod.net
-How do we journey back to our true selves in moments or seasons of hopelessness?
Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

(Ep. 9) The Knowledge of Good and Evil: Why Managing Our Shame Isn’t the Solution Sep 24, 2021

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:
-Which is more detrimental: the knowledge of good or the knowledge of evil?
-A real-life example of shame intervening in childhood development
-Warning signs that shame is becoming who we are, not just something we’ve done
-Don’t ask for forgiveness…first. Why?
-The addiction cycle of shame, and how do we get out of it?
Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

(Ep. 8) What’s Your Body Telling You with Courtney Lancaster & Krystal Freise Sep 10, 2021

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura are joined by Courtney Lancaster (Life Coach, Redding, California) and Krystal Freise (Yoga Teacher, Dixon, Illinois) as they discuss:

-An overview of trauma-sensitive yoga, and how Krystal uses it to bring mindfulness and awareness to her clients

-Courtney shares how nervous system regulation can repair and bring peace to a chronically self-protected state

-How does the Compassion Method navigate us towards physical peace?

-Do we have to relive our trauma to find healing? What other options do we have?

-What’s the difference between becoming our pain and being with our pain?

-How have The Compassion Method’s principles been applied in both a consulting/coaching practice as well as a professional yoga practice?
Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

(Ep. 7) Laura’s Personal Journey Through Grief Aug 27, 2021

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:

Key takeaways from Laura’s journey navigating the loss of her husband
How do you know when you’re ready to share your grief experience to encourage others?
Can thankfulness be a form of medicating during loss?
Understanding how compounded grief affects your grieving process
How do you process other people’s attempts at helping your grief process?
Finding beauty in the middle of grief
Disarming blame and activating a positive response to loss
What do you do when today’s grief awakens childhood trauma?

Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

(Ep. 6) The Remote Control Exercise Aug 13, 2021

In this episode of Triggered and True, Brian and Laura discuss:
-The Remote Control Exercise, a step by step process for bringing healing and comfort
-How do we experience the compassion method, versus simply using it as a process to complete?
-Why does blame feel so good, yet sabotages the healing process?
-How do we address bigger reaction emotions consisting of fight, flight, or freeze?
-Recognizing what I really need in the moment
-How to administer self-compassion, when for most it feels like a foreign language?
-Why does co-dependency with our spouse or a loved one block true intimacy?
-Brian shares a real-life example of the Remote Control Exercise
Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

(Ep. 5) The 10 Gifts -Tangibly Meeting Unmet Needs Jul 30, 2021

In this episode of Triggered and True Laura and Brian discuss:

The difference between actually getting your needs met VS. just making your pain “go away.”
The “10 gifts” -the tangible way of meeting unmet needs.

Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

(Ep. 4) What Compassion Is And What It Is Not... Jun 04, 2021

In this episode of Triggered and True, Laura and Brian discuss:
- What compassion is
- Common misconceptions about compassion
- How to access compassion for yourself
- What blocks our ability to have self compassion
Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

(Ep. 2) Shame Vs. Identity Jun 04, 2021

In this episode of Triggered And True, Brian and Laura discuss:
- Shame
- Where shame originated
- Shame Vs. identity
- Why "getting better" should not be the goal, and can actually keep you stuck living in shame...
Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

(Ep. 3) What You Don't Know About a "Trigger"? Jun 04, 2021

In this episode of Triggered And True, Brian and Laura define what a "trigger" is, why we have triggers, and why triggers can actually be good as they are a spotlight on our pain, and show us where we need help.
Learn how compassion can help you heal from your pain, and how to be compassionate to yourself and others.
Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

(Ep. 1) Triggered and True Feb 11, 2021

This podcast is designed to help you discover your true self and bring healing to your inner world.
Join the conversation here: https://www.triggeredandtrue.com/ask

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected