Forward Free Podcast

Forward Free

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Do you support our Nation's mobility-impaired veterans and their caregivers? We do! How about law enforcement officers and their families? We do, too! The Forward Free Podcast advocates for these people and others in a quest to strengthen their wellbeing and help them go "forward free" in life. Listen as we interview incredible people doing incredible things. You'll also get great information and resources.

06/21/2025

Interview with Holly Migas

Holly Migas is all about first responder wellness. In this conversation with Dr. Jonathan Trexel, Holly Migas, Executive Director of Responder Life and first responder chaplain, shares her personal journey and the organization's mission to support the mental health and well-being of first responders. The discussion covers the challenges faced by law enforcement officers, the importance of peer support, and the evolution of mental health awareness in the profession. Holly also discusses the "Rest Stop" program, which are secure 24/7 locations set aside for first responders on duty. The conversation concludes with Holly's vision for the future of Responder Life and its expansion beyond Oregon. For more info:https://responderlife.org/

56 min
03/21/2025

Interview with Nate Harder

Special guest Nate Harder is on a mission for cops in the mountains of Idaho. In this conversation with Dr. Jonathan Trexel, Nate Harder, a retired police chief, shares his extensive experience in law enforcement, discussing the challenges faced by officers both historically and in today's climate. He emphasizes the importance of identity and purpose after retirement, and how his organization, “Protectors Peak,” serves as a sanctuary for first responders to reconnect with themselves and nature. The discussion highlights the healing power of nature and community support in overcoming the unique stresses of law enforcement careers. For more info:https://www.protectorspeak.com/

25 min
03/21/2025

Interview with Jenny Lanzen

Special guest Jenny Lanzen sheds light on meaningful relationships inside a cop family. In this conversation with Dr. Jonathan Trexel, Jenny Lanzen shares her personal journey as a law enforcement spouse and chaplain, discussing the unique challenges faced by law enforcement families. She emphasizes the importance of spiritual well-being, trust-building, and community support in navigating the complexities of this lifestyle. Jenny also highlights the resources available for law enforcement families, including conferences and support networks, aimed at fostering resilience and understanding within the community. For more info:https://www.how2loveourcops.org/about/team/#

33 min
03/21/2025

Interview with Jake Skifstad

Special guest Jake Skifstad takes officer protection to a new level. In this conversation with Dr. Jonathan Trexel, Jake Skifstad shares his experiences as a law enforcement officer and discusses the importance of community support for law enforcement, particularly from Christians and local churches. He emphasizes the special relationship between law enforcement and the community, the need for prayer and support for first responders, and the role of the nonprofit organization SHIELD 616 in providing life-saving equipment to officers. The discussion highlights practical ways churches can engage with and support law enforcement, fostering relationships that can lead to positive community impact. For more info:https://shield616.org/

18 min
03/21/2025

Interview with Scott Brown

Special guest Scott Brown takes you inside an officer shooting incident. In this conversation with Dr. Jonathan Trexel, Scott Brown shares his journey as a law enforcement officer, detailing the tragic events of October 24, 2014, when his partner was killed in the line of duty. He discusses the emotional aftermath, including survivor's guilt and the importance of seeking help. Scott reflects on the legacy of fallen officers, the power of forgiveness, and the positive changes that can arise from tragedy. He emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health within the law enforcement community and shares his personal healing journey. In this conversation, Scott Brown shares his journey of writing a book about his experiences as a law enforcement officer, the impact of sharing personal stories, and the importance of spiritual well-being in the profession. He discusses how he has found a new purpose in helping others through their trauma. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding and support for law enforcement families and the significance of faith in navigating the difficulties of the job. For more info:https://www.instagram.com/scottandlizbrown/

43 min
03/21/2025

Interview with Victoria Newman

Special guest Vicki Newman loves her cop. In this conversation with Dr. Jonathan Trexel, Victoria Newman shares her personal journey as a law enforcement spouse, discussing the challenges faced by officers and their families. She highlights the impact of trauma on relationships and the importance of education and support for law enforcement families. Through her books and the organization “How to Love Our Cops,” she aims to build resilient homes and promote mental wellness within the law enforcement community. The discussion also touches on the significance of spiritual wellness in maintaining healthy relationships amidst the pressures of law enforcement careers. For more info:https://www.how2loveourcops.org/

24 min
03/21/2025

Interview with Chad Campese

Special guest Chad Campese is NOT your average cop. In this conversation with Dr. Jonathan Trexel, Chad Campese shares his journey as a law enforcement officer, discussing the unique aspects of his career and the profound impact of faith on his life. He reflects on the struggles he faced with hard questions about faith and purpose, particularly in the context of his experiences on the job. Chad recounts a pivotal moment involving a suicidal individual that shifted his perspective and deepened his empathy. He also discusses his first book, Confession of a Christian Fraud, and hints at the themes of his upcoming second book, Unfollowing Jesus, which explores the complexities of faith and personal transformation. For more info:chad.compese@gmail.comlinkedin.com/in/chad-campese-978b4a22a

30 min
03/21/2025

Interview with Silouan Green

Special guest Silouan Green has an incredible personal story, from Marine Corps fighter pilot to national PTSD expert. In this conversation, Dr. Jonathan Trexel and Silouan Green discuss the complexities of mental health, particularly PTSD, in the context of law enforcement and military experiences. Silouan shares his personal journey from being a Marine Corps officer to facing a life-altering accident, leading to a struggle with PTSD. They explore the importance of connection, purpose, and community in preventing mental health crises, emphasizing that many veterans and officers feel isolated and lack support. The discussion highlights the need for proactive measures in mental health care and the significance of building meaningful lives to prevent individuals from reaching a breaking point. In this conversation, Silouan Green discusses the critical issues surrounding mental health in law enforcement, emphasizing the need for better training, support systems, and community connections. He highlights the alarming statistics of officer suicides compared to line-of-duty deaths and stresses the importance of addressing mental health from the start of an officer's career. Silouan shares insights on the challenges officers face when transitioning from work to home life and the necessity of training for life transitions. He also discusses his speaking engagements and innovative approaches to peer support and community connection for veterans and law enforcement officers. For more info:www.silouan.com

58 min

8 Episodes

Do you support our Nation's mobility-impaired veterans and their caregivers? We do! How about law enforcement officers and their families? We do, too! The Forward Free Podcast advocates for these people and others in a quest to strengthen their wellbeing and help them go "forward free" in life. Listen as we interview incredible people doing incredible things. You'll also get great information and resources.

Creator

Forward Free
Years Active

2K
Episodes

8
Rating

Clean
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© 2025 Forward Free
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Forward Free Podcast