Out of Crazytown: Your Guide to Divorcing a Narcissist

You may know her from The Walking Dead, but actress and advocate Lindsay Abernathy faced a real-life apocalypse that no script could prepare her for. In this powerful episode, Lindsay opens up about surviving years of domestic abuse—both inside the relationship and long after it ended through relentless post-separation abuse. Now the host of the acclaimed podcast Bitch Is a Bad Word, Lindsay uses her voice to shatter stigma and empower survivors to reclaim their stories. We dive into how she went from TV screens to trauma recovery, the psychological warfare of leaving an abuser, and what true healing actually looks like on the other side. This conversation is raw, real, and necessary. If you've ever felt isolated in your experience or unsure if you could survive what feels unsurvivable—Lindsay is living proof that you can.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Hope Rose—a movement born from one woman's battle through the family court system and the fire of custody struggles. Her story is one of turning deep pain into undeniable purpose. Together, we explore 10 transformative ways you can start taking back control, even in the face of chaos. From mindset shifts to daily practices, we unpack simple but powerful tools that help you make meaningful changes and start designing a future you're proud of. If you're ready to rise, this conversation will light the way. Hope Rose Website Hope Rose Instagram A Transformed Life Podcast Recommended Reading: (earns commissions) The Belief Equation The Source Atomic Habits Let Them Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself Other items mentioned: Magnesium Soak Mendi Device My favorite Journal

Leaving a narcissistic, addicted, and high-conflict partner isn't just a breakup—it's a battle for survival. In this episode, I sit down with Emily, a survivor who endured a brutal divorce and custody fight against a mentally unstable and addicted ex. She shares her raw, unfiltered journey from the depths of magical thinking to the reality of fighting for her child's safety, testifying in court, and losing everything—only to discover true freedom on the other side. We dive into:

In this episode, Anne Wintemute, CEO and co-founder of Aimee Says, unveils a groundbreaking AI tool designed to revolutionize how victims and survivors of domestic abuse navigate their journeys to safety and recovery. Anne shares the powerful story behind Aimee Says and its mission to help survivors communicate effectively, document critical information, strategize for the future, and validate their experiences. Tune in to learn how this cutting-edge technology is empowering individuals to break the cycle of abuse and reclaim control over their lives. Don't miss this inspiring and eye-opening conversation! Aimee Says   **DISCLAIMER:**   THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS PODCAST IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE OR A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE GUIDANCE OF A LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. EACH INDIVIDUAL'S CIRCUMSTANCES ARE UNIQUE, AND ANYONE SEEKING LEGAL ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT A QUALIFIED ATTORNEY. IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT, PLEASE REACH OUT TO A LICENSED THERAPIST OR COUNSELOR.  

Dr. Chrisitne Cocchiola and Amy Polacko discuss their new book, Framed, which shares stories that are five-alarm warnings from real women around the world. These two authors are survivors of domestic abuse themselves and wrote this book to expose the atrocities of the family court underworld and provide women with validation and education as well.  Pre-order the book NOW! Available Oct. 1st.  Barnes & Noble Amazon Dr. Cocchiola's Website Amy Polacko's Website

Join my 4-Day Bulletproof Challenge. Sign up now at https://www.jackiemillercoaching.com/bulletproof Dr. Caroline Giroux, MD, a Professor of Psychiatry at UC Davis, is a renowned expert in trauma treatment. She provides valuable insights into the tools and strategies we can incorporate to build resilience after enduring narcissistic abuse. Dr. Giroux delves into the common traps and pitfalls encountered when navigating post-separation abuse and offers guidance on how to protect ourselves from the manipulative tactics of abusers designed to leave us debilitated by stress and anxiety. By understanding these dynamics, we can better equip ourselves to recover and thrive despite the challenges posed by our abusers. About Dr. Caroline Giroux An Essay on Journaling by Dr. Caroline Giroux Dr. Caroline Giroux's Blog-33 Secret Joys DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS STATED ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN ADVICE SPECIFIC TO YOUR SITUATION.  

Vanessa Reiser, LCSW, talks about her new book "Narcissistic Abuse" A Therapist's Guide to Escaping and Healing from Toxic and Manipulative People. We dive into how narcissists operate and how to identify their dangerous behaviors, as well as the Cult tactics they use to establish mind control over their victims. Vanessa Reiser - Instagram Vanessa's Book Vanessa Reiser - Facebook Tell A Therapist Vanessa's Run to Raise Awareness about Narcissistic Abuse Vanessa Reiser - Tik Tok DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS STATED ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN ADVICE SPECIFIC TO YOUR SITUATION.   

Julie Myers was head coach of the women's lacrosse team at the University of Virginia for 31 years. One season, she received a call that one of her players, Yeardly Love, had been killed by her ex-boyfriend. Julie Myers is now the CEO of One Love, a foundation that was founded to honor the tragic death of Yeardley Love by engaging young people through compelling, relatable films and honest conversations around healthy and unhealthy relationship behaviors. Listen in to find out more about the tragic death of Yeardly Love and how her family turned her tragedy into an opportunity to teach youth about unhealthy relationships.   Get in touch with a peer advocate by texting LOVEIS or 22522 Live discreet confidential chat service The Story Behind One Love Join One Love One Love Instagram One Love Twitter (X) One Love TikTok One Love Facebook One Love YouTube Escalation Workshop Buy One Love Merchandise      

Dr. Christine Cocchiola, a leading expert on coercive control, joins me again to discuss the tragic abuse coercive controllers exert on their children and how protective parents can navigate this difficult situation.  Dr. Cocciola also has fantastic resources for protective parents, coaches, advocates, and attorneys.  This is a must-listen episode for many parents who are co-parenting with a coercive controller.   Dr. Cocchiola's Website Perfect Prey Podcast Protective Parenting Program Where is Your Line? Love is not Control Coach and Ally Training Dr. Cocchiola Instagram

Singer. Songwriter. Entrepreneur. Author. Stephanie Quayle got a phone call that would change her life forever.  Her boyfriend died in a plane crash, but the real story only begins from there. As events unfolded after his death, Stephanie realized just how toxic her relationship was and, among other things, how she was not the only woman in his life. 

Energy Psychology is an innovative discipline that targets unresolved trauma. Nancy Forrester is the Founder and Executive Director of the National EFT Training Institute, pioneering the Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) for trauma therapy. Join Nancy as she shares her remarkable journey and the establishment of an institute to educate professionals on treating unresolved trauma. This conversation is sure to captivate you just as it did for me. Check out the NeftTI Here: ➡️National EFT Training Institute Free Video Series on Conscious EFT, Register Here: ➡️Concious EFT Video Series Nancy Forrester on Facebook ➡️Nancy Forrester FB  

In this episode, Vanessa Reiser, LCSW, recounts her escape from an abusive relationship and the remarkable feat of running 285 miles across New York to spotlight narcissistic abuse awareness. Delving into her personal journey, she also shares insights from her book, providing a guide for others on escaping and healing from the complexities of narcissistic abuse.   .Vanessa's Book Tell A Therapist Jackie's Website  

Courtney Gilmartin is the co-founder of New Jersey Protective Moms, a non-profit dedicated to preventing child abuse. Courtney continues to suffer post-separation abuse in a 7-year ordeal dealing with custody and financial issues. She has used her experience to fuel her passion for making a difference in New Jersey law regarding coercive control and making child safety a priority in the family court system. 

Kate Anthony is back, and we discuss her new book, The D Word. Kate and I delve into what good looks like in marriage and discuss various chapters in her book. Readers get the support and guidance they need to decide if they should stay or go when contemplating divorce. Kate Anthony Website The D Word Kate Anthony Instagram The Divorce Survival Guide Podcast   DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS STATED ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN ADVICE SPECIFIC TO YOUR SITUATION.   

Victoria Kirilloff,  founded Divorce Analytics to help people through the financial minefield of divorcing a narcissist. During my divorce and during my time as a divorce coach, I have noticed a huge need for financial professionals who truly understand the landscape of divorcing a narcissist. Not having enough information about your finances or a clear path forward may make you fearful about how to settle. Victoria is here to help you let go of that fear. She is dedicated to providing a fact-filled, data-driven roadmap of your divorce and financials while creating win-win solutions that both parties can agree on. https://www.divorceanalytics.com/

How much spousal support will you get? Is it hard to get a straight answer? Family Law Attorney Jon Summers explains the many factors involved in deciding spousal support. There are many elements to calculating spousal support, and you will be surprised to learn things such as it's not just how much money the earning spouse made but HOW they made it and WHEN they got paid that can significantly impact what you can settle for. Listen in as one of the best family law attorneys in Los Angeles helps us understand this complex subject.

Are you caught in the tortuous machine called Family Court?  Annie Kenny is the Board President of Family Court Awareness Month.  Annie shares her devastating personal story of how the family court system failed her children. This episode explores how we can all play a part, big or small, in changing the system to protect our kids. 

Kelli Avallone is a family law attorney who specializes in high-conflict divorce.  It is important to know how family court professionals think and the reality of family court can be shocking. Kelli is here to shoot it to us straight and give us the cold, hard truth about family court. You can find out more about Kelli at www.atty-avallone.com

Dr. Nadine Macaluso has become the Trauma Bond Whisperer after enduring eight tumultuous years in a marriage to Jordan Belfort, the Wolf of Wall Street. Now a trauma bond expert, Dr. Nae has become a global source of wisdom and hope for women recovering from pathological partnerships. Dr. Nae's book Run Like Hell is a therapist's guide to recognizing, escaping, and healing from trauma bonds.

Kate Anthony describes the often painful journey of deciding whether or not to leave a difficult marriage. The idea of divorce is overwhelming, and knowing how to leave an abusive relationship takes research and careful planning. Listen in as we discuss the how and why of deciding on divorce and learn about some great programs that can help you on your journey. 

Phoenix Gould is an expert on healing from narcissistic abuse.  When co-parenting with a narcissistic ex gives them too much access to you, parallel parenting is the only way forward.  Join us as we talk about how you can stop being FUEL for your narcissistic ex.

Caroline Giroux, MD is a psychiatrist specializing in trauma and a professor at UC Davis.  Dr.  Giroux discusses the various forms of gaslighting and its devastating effects on its victims.  If you have suffered trauma from gaslighting Dr. Giroux will help you both understand this form of abuse and how you can heal.

Filing for a move-away order in the Family Court System can be tricky.  Family Law Attorney, Adam Schanz tackles this complicated and often confusing process and also reveals how it can backfire.

Dr. Justine Weber discusses a very sensitive topic about a form of abuse that is shrouded in shame and secrecy....SEXUAL ABUSE.  In narcissistic relationships, sexual abuse is meant to humiliate, manipulate and control intimate partners and often goes on for years unchecked.  This episode aims to educate victims and give them support and validation.   

Dr. Christine Cocchiola, DSW, LCSW and expert on coercive control, helps us understand how this type of control fits into the abuse landscape and how it effects its victims, including children of coercive controllers. Dr. Cocchiola explains current legislation and how you can get involved to change the laws that effect our family court systems.

Dr. Justine Weber is a clinical psychologist and expert on narcissistic abuse. She delves into the effects this abuse has on our bodies and how the cycle keeps its victims trapped.

Victim, Survivor, Thriver, Sarah talks candidly about the heartbreak of suffering narcissistic abuse in her marriage and the post separation abuse she has endured in her divorce and custody journey.  

Parenting Coach and High Conflict Divorce Coach, Jen DeGaetano, M.Ed, talks to us about the difficulties in parenting during or after high conflict divorce.  

Health and wellness expert, Shelley Williams of Yogamittra, talks about how we can deal with the stress of high conflict divorce as well as give us tools to cope with challenging days, making our lives better, and focusing on a positive future. yogamittra.com  

Renee Rodriguez is a custody coach and consultant who joins me to discuss custody evaluations, why they are important and how to nail one should you ever need to.

Jeff Diamant is considered one of the best trial are lawyers in the state of Texas. As a leading divorce lawyer he has handled millions of dollars of divorces for both women and men. Jeff joins me to discuss the 10 biggest mistakes in divorce, especially when divorcing a narcissist.

Author Tracy Malone joins me to talk about her new book:  Divorcing Your Narcissist, You Can't Make This Shit Up!  Tracy is a SurTHRIVER™ of narcissistic abuse and founder of NarcissistAbuseSupport.com

Is your spouse hiding assets?  James Peet, Certified Fraud Examiner, Forensic Accountant, Private Investigator discusses the need for Fraud Examiners in high-conflict divorce cases. When finances are complicated and significant assets are being hidden, it's time to call a Certified Fraud Examiner.

Alana Sharps, high conflict divorce coach and author of the book: Was It My Fault, joins me to share her story of an abusive marriage and the post separation abuse she endured during her high conflict divorce. You can find out more about Alana and her book at surthrivetribe.com  

Judge Anthony joins me to discuss false claims of alienation during custody cases.  We discuss why this happens and what you can do to protect yourself.  We touch on many other topics related to custody and divorce and find a way to have a little levity while discussing a serious topic. 

You can never have too much information when it comes to the financial aspects of divorce.  Caroline Pak, mediator and CDFA covers the financial issues faced when divorcing which are important to know no matter what level of conflict you face. 

There is a fantastic new Co-Parenting App on the market called Peaceful Co-Parenting Messenger. This app helps create boundaries such as limiting the length of messages and setting a waiting period between messages to give you more control over the communications you receive from a high-conflict co-parent. Biana Balogh is the creator and explains how this app can make your co-parenting experience much calmer and more harmonious. peacefulparentapp.com 

Dr. Sherry Martyn is a Clinical Psychologist who has a special interest in treating patients who have suffered narcissistic abuse. Sherry not only runs divorce support groups but has a unique background having 16 years in Family Law and Mediation assisting individuals and couples through all aspects of the divorce process. Sherry discusses narcissistic abuse, what it is and how she helps her patients heal.

Randy McAlister is a Certified Threat Manager™️. Having been a Team Commander on county SWAT as well as currently being a Task Force Officer with the FBI, he discusses stalking and targeted violence as it relates to divorce. Stalking is an issue in a high percentage of high-conflict divorce and custody cases and having assessment tools to measure risk is the first step in helping victims of stalking abuse.

Daisy Swan is a Career Coach, Executive Coach, and Mindfulness Trainer and brings her expertise to the world of high conflict divorce. Daisy shares her insight on everything from vocational assessments to transitioning into a new career after divorce and how to avoid the pitfalls in the process.

Interview with Christina, survivor of narcissistic abuse. Christina talks about losing your identity, finding the courage to stand up for yourself and the recovery after leaving a narcissist.

What is Cooperative divorce and is it a good path for high conflict divorce? Family Law Attorney, Michelle Dellino joins us from Seattle, WA to discuss this topic. 

Tina Swithin survived a category 5 divorce hurricane and boy is she living to tell about it.  She is the author of the Divorcing a Narcissist book series and has founded both One Mom's Battle and The High Conflict Divorce Coach Certification Program.  Tina talks about the broken family court system and how to navigate it and where you can find a coach from her program that can help you do it.

Commissioner Jill S. Robbins joins me to explain what a private judge is, what they do and gives her advice on mediation to settle divorce. 

Jackie Miller, host of Out of Crazytown: Your Guide To Divorcing a Narcissists, interviews guest, Amy, about her marriage and divorce as well as her life after surviving narcissistic abuse.

Interview Part 2 of 2 with Tracy Malone, Survivor, Supporter, Coach, and Educator of narcissistic abuse survivors.   Join us as we discuss the schemes, tactics and manipulations used by narcissists to abuse their victims and hear the stories behind them.

Interview Part 1 of 2 with Tracy Malone, Survivor, Supporter, Coach and Educator of narcissistic abuse survivors. Join us as we discuss the schemes, tactics and manipulations used by narcissists to abuse their victims and hear the stories behind them. www.narcissistabusesupport.com

Financial abuse is often present in marriages where one partner is trying to control another.  Often financial abuse happens in high conflict divorce as well. Kim Pentico from the National Network to End Domestic Violence helps us to better understand this type of abuse and what can be done about it.  National Network to End Domestic Violence Hotline:  800-799-SAFE (7233)

Miriam Chang, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), discusses the difficulties and challenges in a high conflict divorce from a financial standpoint and how a CDFA can come to the rescue.

Attorney Ann Grant tackles the specifics of the divorce process and the challenges faced when divorcing a narcissist.