Laverne Cox on Overcoming Shame, Breaking Generational Trauma and the Journey to Self-Love

Laverne Cox on Overcoming Shame, Breaking Generational Trauma and the Journey to Self-Love

Author: Hoda Kotb, TODAY July 8, 2026 Duration: 42:59
Before she was a trailblazing icon, Laverne Cox was a little girl in Mobile, Alabama, fighting to survive in a world that told her she didn't belong. In this vulnerable conversation with Hoda Kotb, Laverne reflects on the untold story behind her memoir, Transcendent, and the long path to embracing her authentic self. Laverne pulls back the curtain on the survival mechanisms she developed as a child to endure trauma, including the years she spent "disassociating" just to make it through the day. She shares the realization that she was "cared for" but not truly loved, and how she eventually found the strength to forgive her mother and break the cycle of generational trauma. Join us for a powerful discussion on why "staying in the love" isn't just a mantra, it’s a life saving practice.

In a world that often feels full, the act of creating room-for reflection, for change, for breath-is a radical kind of strength. That’s the quiet heart of Making Space with Hoda Kotb. Here, Hoda moves beyond the morning show desk to engage in a different kind of conversation, one focused on the resilience and compassion that shape a meaningful life. Each episode is built around a simple, powerful question: where do you draw your strength? The answers unfold through intimate dialogues with people from all walks of life whose stories Hoda genuinely admires. These aren't interviews about achievement, but testimonies about human experience. Listeners will hear how others have navigated personal challenges, found unexpected joy, or rebuilt after loss, extracting practical lessons on making space for whatever you might be seeking right now-be it better mental health, a new fitness goal, a cultural perspective, or simply a moment of peace. The tone is warm, curious, and deeply personal, as if you're listening in on a conversation between friends who aren't afraid of the big topics. This podcast lives at the intersection of society, culture, and self-improvement, but it feels like a personal guide. You won't find quick fixes or loud promises here. Instead, you'll find a steady companion for your own journey, leaving each talk feeling subtly stronger and inspired to carve out your own space for growth. It’s a reminder that making space isn't about adding more, but about uncovering what was already there, waiting for room to breathe.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Making Space with Hoda Kotb
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