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In this deeply moving episode, Lindsay sits down with Laura Evens—friend, mentor, and founder of the Willowfield Foundation—to discuss the traumatic events that changed her family forever. Laura shares the heartbreaking story of her daughter’s sexual abuse and suicide attempt, the hidden dangers of grooming, and the shocking reality that abuse often hides in plain sight. This conversation covers the painful truth about child sexual abuse, trafficking, and the signs parents usually miss. Laura also explains her work with NAMI and the importance of access to mental health support. This episode is a call to action for all of us: to be aware, ask better questions, and protect the most vulnerable in our lives.
Key Takeaways
- Child abuse thrives in silence, secrecy, and “nice” neighborhoods.
- Grooming is subtle, manipulative, and often misunderstood.
- Trafficking and abuse aren’t always strangers or abductions: 90% of abusers are known and trusted.
- Ask better questions as a parent—don’t just ask if they were polite, ask if anything felt uncomfortable.
- Secrets are never safe; surprises are fun, but secrets need to be shared.
- Parents should show up unannounced and trust their gut feelings.
- The Willowfield Foundation provides mental health therapy scholarships for children.
- Forgiveness and healing are daily choices, not one-time events.
Listen in to learn more
01:58 – Laura's background and transition from corporate to mission-driven work
05:16 – The traumatic experience that changed everything
07:25 – Warning signs, grooming, and the importance of adult responsibility
11:56 – Empowering kids to speak up without fear
15:08 – Laura’s work with NAMI and crisis response
16:58 – Founding the Willowfield Foundation and its mission
19:41 – Letting go of guilt as a parent
20:44 – Shocking statistics about abuse and why awareness matters
22:39 – Where to find more information
Resources & Next Steps
- Willowfield Foundation
- NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness
- Stewards of Children Training – Darkness to Light
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lindsey-elmore-show--5952903/support.
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