THE VIBRANT SURVIVOR -How to Identify a Narcissist, Narcissistic Abuse, Toxic Relationships, Childhood Trauma Healing

Hey, Survivor! How do you navigate traumatic comparisons in narcissistic families and other relationships?  In this episode, I'm sharing my personal experience and insights on what I call “post-traumatic pissing contests.  I'll cover 3 key points to help you set healthy boundaries and hold space for yourself and others.  Enough of the invalidation and minimization of lived experience!  Your truth matters! If you, or someone you know, have been a victim or perpetrator of the trauma comparison game (aka “post-traumatic pissing contest”), this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you protect your peace, when narcissistic or toxic people disguise abuse as “teasing?”  In this episode, I'm revisiting the teasing narrative, after hearing from a survivor who was subjected to this behavior at a graduation party.  I'll share tips and insights on how to identify, navigate and heal, while casting off guilt, shame, and confusion.  You're worthy of respect! If you, or someone you know, have been force-fed a teasing narrative after narcissistic abuse,, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you navigate accusations of stalking the narcissist in your life?  In this episode, I'm sharing my recent experience, compliments of a social media troll, and offering some insights and tips to help you move through the self-blame, shame, and confusion.  Some people aren't worth compromising your health and well-being.  And you're worthy of truth, healing, and peace. If you, or someone you know, have second-guessed yourselves after narcissistic abuse, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you protect your peace, when navigating narcissistic dynamics in relationships - especially with people who are supposed to love you?  In this episode, I'm highlighting 6 tactics (or toxic behaviors), along with 6 tools that you can use to stay grounded in your truth and protect your peace.  Regardless of the relationship or circumstances, your truth matters; and you're worthy of feeling seen, heard, and safe. If you, or someone you know, are navigating narcissism in close relationships, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! What does a narcissistic defense strategy look like?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 ways that the truth gets twisted in court.  I'll share specific examples from the juvenile arson trial that wrapped up last week with a guilty verdict on all 4 counts.  Whether you're navigating the justice system, or dealing with other toxic relationships, you'll find some trauma-healing gems. If you, or someone you know, are fighting for truth while navigating narcissism, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! What does it feel like, when the narcissist faces consequences?  In this episode, I'm sharing this week's courtroom victory in my community, when a judge found a juvenile guilty of arson, criminal damage, and 4 counts of endangerment with the threat of imminent death.  In addition, I'm talking about some key takeaways, when it comes to processing justice, as it unfolds.  Wherever you are in navigating the system, it's important to take care of your health and well-being. If you, or someone you know, are on a journey to justice or supporting someone else on their journey, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! What do you do to protect your health, while showing up for justice?  In this episode, I'm following up after the sentencing of one of the defendants in the Preston Lord case, and 6 ways to protect your health, when facing justice-triggered stress.  Whether you're supporting someone else, or walking out your own journey to justice, your well-being and presence matter! If you, or someone you know, need help navigating traumatic triggers as justice is being served, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you practice self-care, when the narcissist faces justice?  In this episode, I'm sharing about the sentencing of one of the defendants in the Preston Lord case, and 5 ways to ground yourself and tend to your health and well-being.  No matter the circumstances or outcome of your situation, you and your healing matter! If you, or someone you know, need help focusing on what you can control on the road to justice, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you rebuild safety, strength and trust after trauma?  In this episode, I'm sharing how connecting with nature can be powerful for healing, including 5 healthy ways to do it.  Whether you're recovering from a narcissistic or toxic relationship, or other traumatic experience, you are worthy of healing.  And nature can provide a lot of opportunities. If you, or someone you know, want to tap into the  healing power of nature, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you heal from food trauma?  In this episode, I'm sharing some traumatic experiences around food and healing solutions to improve your life span and health span.  Food should provide nourishment, not cause stress, guilt, shame, or fear.  Saying “no” to toxic relationships should include food!  If you, or someone you know, need help healing from food trauma, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you reclaim your mornings, after narcissistic abuse?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 gentle rituals to help you take back your power and prioritize your peace.  When you've been in survival mode, due to toxic relationships, your mornings can be filled with stress.  Chronic stress, over time, can compromise your health and well-being.  Time for some self-care and healing!  If you, or someone you know, need to reclaim your mornings with healthy routines, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you stay strong when facing a narcissist in court?  In this episode, I'm sharing four powerful ways to do this, even when justice is delayed, narcissistic enablers are at work, and the truth isn't being upheld.  When you're navigating the system, you're in control of your well-being.  So, keep your peace, protect your energy, speak your truth, and keep moving forward.  If you, or someone you know, need help navigating narcissism in court, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you fight for justice, when the system fights harder to protect its own?  In this episode, I'm sharing 3 healthy ways to keep moving forward.  Whether you're navigating the justice system or a toxic narcissistic safe haven or old regime, it can leave you feeling discouraged, stressed out, and exhausted.  You're not alone, your light is needed, and you have to prioritize and protect your health and well-being! If you, or someone you know, have ever felt like the system protects power and profit over people, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you stand your ground and speak your truth in court?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 keys to making a victim impact statement - even when you aren't prepared.  Navigating the judicial system can leave you feeling silenced, ignored, and overwhelmed.  And this can negatively impact your health and well-being.  You're not alone; and your voice matters! If you, or someone you know, have ever felt minimized by the system and [literally] speechless, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you navigate the road to justice?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 realities about seeking justice that I witnessed during a settlement hearing for one of the 7 defendants charged with Preston Lord's murder.  The journey to justice can be long, slow, and it can take a toll on your health and well-being - mentally, physically and emotionally.  Take one step at a time, and look for glimmers of hope along the way.  You're stronger than you know! If you, or someone you know, are navigating the justice system or supporting someone who is, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! Where do you go, and what do you do, for healing?  In this episode, I'm taking you to my happy place and sharing 7 ways to heal in Sedona.  Healing is a process, not a place, and it starts with YOU!  It doesn't have to be complicated or expensive either.  Self-care in nature - wherever you are - can be a powerful way to improve your health and well-being.  You are worthy and it's worth it! If you, or someone you know, need inspiration to create your own healing retreats and rituals, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you challenge toxic leadership, while avoiding burnout?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 strategies to help you raise your voice, call for accountability, advocate for change, and plan for self-care.  Speaking truth to power shouldn't compromise your health and well-being.  You can raise your voice and create change, while incorporating healthy lifestyle habits! If you, or someone you know, need strategies for challenging narcissistic or toxic leadership, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor!

Hey, Survivor! How do you handle unexpected triggers, after narcissistic abuse?  In this episode, I'm taking you with me on the road to justice, as I share my traumatic experience outside the courtroom, right before a pre-trial hearing this week for the alleged murderer.  And I'm sharing 6 ways you can tend to your inner garden when these storms hit.  After all, healing is a journey; and self-care is health care. If you, or someone you know, have been blindsided, overwhelmed, and need help regulating your emotions in high-stress situations, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! Are you sick of the illusion that the narcissist creates in the courtroom with their image?  In this episode, I'm breaking down the facade of fashion in legal proceedings and other hearings.  This includes the use of clothing, colors, eyewear, and hair styles to manage perceptions and gain sympathy.  And I'm offering some survivor tips to help you navigate this tactic and heal.  After all, feeding into the facade can compromise your health and well-being.   If you, or someone you know, needs help navigating narcissistic manipulation in court, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! You know I've spent A LOT of time in court this past year, right?  Well, in this episode, I'm sharing narcissistic courtroom tactics and power plays the narcissist uses during legal battles.  As an example, I'm using a school board committee hearing that's happening RIGHT NOW!  Even though it's technically not a court of law, the same *principles* apply (pun intended).  Regardless of the relationship, these situations can be very stressful and compromise your mental health and well-being.  So, I'm providing tips on how to deal and heal, plus a cool tool for you to try.   If you, or someone you know, needs help identifying, navigating and healing from narcissistic tactics around legal and other hearings, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! In this episode, I'm sharing the life-changing power of boundaries for narcissistic abuse survivors.  If you're in a toxic relationship, you need to learn to distance yourself from dysfunction, so you can protect your health, peace and joy.  You're worthy of healing!       If you, or someone you know, needs help setting boundaries, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! In this episode, I'm sharing ways to identify a narcissist and how to stop narcissistic abuse before it ruins your life.  Regardless of the nature of the relationship, you need to know who and what you're dealing with, so you can navigate narcissism and heal.  You're worthy of healthy relationships!       If you, or someone you know, needs help unpacking toxic relationships and setting boundaries, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you cut off a narcissist without losing yourself?  In this episode, I'm digging into why it's so hard to do this, then sharing how to do it.  Whether you're dealing with a romantic relationship, friend, family member, co-worker, boss, or neighbor, exposing yourself to the toxic stress of a narcissistically abusive situation can put you at risk for some serious health conditions and compromise your wellbeing.       If you, or someone you know, needs help cutting off a narcissist, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! What were your greatest lessons in 2024?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 lessons, as a narcissistic abuse survivor, to carry into 2025.  Whether you enjoyed a peaceful, narcissist-free holiday season, or you're stressed to the max and exhausted from toxic relationships, your takeaways can motivate you to prioritize your health and wellbeing.       If you, or someone you know, needs some perspective for the new year, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How are you feeling this holiday season - physically and emotionally?  In this episode, I'm sharing 3 traumatic truths I wish I'd known as a narcissistic abuse survivor.  Don't be scared to dig deep and transform.  You can't control others; but you can control yourself.       If you, or someone you know, needs to better understand trauma, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! Holidays are tough for many of us - myself included.  In this episode, I'm sharing 4 strategies to protect your peace this holiday season.  Don't let narcissistic or toxic relationships rob you of your joy!  You are worthy of healthy, happy holidays on your terms.       If you, or someone you know, needs help navigating the holidays peacefully, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you plan to show up for 2025?  In this episode, I'm sharing 10 healthy ways you can prepare for a vibrant new year.  Planning ahead for the new year is an act of self care.  So, don't wait until January 1st to start!  You are worthy of continued healing and an intentionally happy new year, where your vision of who you want to be comes to life.  Let's do this together!     If you, or someone you know, need inspiration to set themselves up for success in 2025, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! Are you ready to overcome your fear of boundaries?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 reasons you're afraid to set and enforce them, and what you can do about it.  Boundaries are an act of self-love and freedom.  So, don't be held hostage by your narcissistic and toxic relationships!  You are worthy of healthy relationships, where there's respect and peace.     If you, or someone you know, need encouragement to set and enforce boundaries, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you protect your best self, as a narcissistic abuse survivor?  In this episode, I'm sharing 3 ways you can set and reinforce your boundaries this holiday season.  Boundaries aren't about punishing others.  They are an act of self love, and a way to love others.  Don't let toxic traditions, situations or toxic people ruin your holidays, health or healing journey!  You are worthy of healthy relationships.     If you, or someone you know, need boundary help, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How deep do you go when researching an Airbnb unit before booking, as a narcissistic abuse survivor?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 things for you to find out before you invest your time and money.  Knowing who and what you're dealing with can help you to avoid traumatic triggers that can ruin your stay, compromise your well-being and set you back on your healing journey. If you, or someone you know, need help planning for peaceful accommodations, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! What do you do, when the narcissist tries you in a court of law?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 tactics with examples from a recent juvenile court hearing in an arson case.  Grounding yourself in the present can help you to stay focused and stand firm in your truth. If you, or someone you know, need help identifying, navigating and healing from narcissistic courtroom tactics, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! When and how have you grieved your narcissistic relationships?  Getting over it and moving on, by stuffing your feelings to avoid discomfort (yours or others'), can literally make you sick.  Disconnecting from toxic situations and creating space for healing can help you move through the stages of grief and grow through what you're going through. If you, or someone you know, need healthy ways to grieve after narcissistic abuse, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! When is it time for you to walk away from a narcissistic fight?  The pursuit of external justice for what has happened to you can compromise your health and well-being.  So, proceed with caution, if you must.  Your healing, growth and peace are priceless; and they can serve as a form of justice too. If you, or someone you know, are caught in a narcissistic fight (directly or indirectly), this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you find closure, after narcissistic abuse?  Let me count 3 ways.  (See what I did there?)  How often have you looked externally for justice to be served to the toxic people you've dealt with, only to be disappointed.  Healing is a personal process; and you have to seek peace within. If you, or someone you know, are looking for closure after narcissistic abuse,  this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! What do you do to achieve healthy skin?  In this episode, I'm sharing 6 ways you can love your skin for vibrant health inside and out.  It's easy to seek external validation and to fill up (in some cases literally) with products, goods and services.  And social media sets the stage for quick purchases.  But loving your skin is more of an inside job than you may think.  If you, or someone you know, need help achieving vibrantly healthy skin,  this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you navigate your narcissistic workplace, in a healthy way?  In this episode, I'm sharing 4 things you can do for your health and wellbeing.  Toxic work environments can suck the life out of you, if you let them.  But you can take back your power and build yourself up from the inside out, whether the toxic work culture changes or not - even if you eventually decide to leave.  If you, or someone you know, need help navigating narcissism at work, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How can gardening help you to heal, after narcissistic abuse?  In this episode, you'll learn 7 healing reasons to dig into it for your mental, physical and emotional health and wellbeing.  Narcissistic and toxic relationships can suck the life out of you.  So, it's important to cultivate healthy relationships and hobbies that nourish your mind, body and spirit.  Let's GROW!  If you, or someone you know, want to tap into the healing power of gardening after narcissistic abuse, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How can you find joy, after narcissistic abuse?  In this episode, you'll learn 3 healthy ways that can enhance your wellbeing and enrich the lives of others.  It's easy to focus on the narcissist, and what they said and did in your toxic relationship.  But it's important to cultivate community and tap into the healing power of healthy relationships.  You can do this!  If you, or someone you know, need help finding joy after narcissistic abuse, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How are you at identifying and navigating narcissistic courtroom behaviors?  In this episode, I'm sharing 7 ways that the narcissist behaves in court; and offering strategies to help you respond, not react.  Narcissistic and toxic courtroom drama is sad and stressful, which can compromise your health and wellbeing.  It's important to stay grounded and focused; and to have support in court.  If you, or someone you know, need help identifying and navigating narcissistic courtroom behaviors, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How are you hindering your narcissistic coworker on the job?  In this episode, I'm explaining 4 ways; and offering strategies on navigating narcissism at work.  Enabling narcissistic coworkers hurts you and hinders them.  Tired, toxic narratives that you've been taught and trained to tolerate and perpetuate may be playing a role in this situation. Your health and wellbeing, personally and professionally, should be your number one priority!  If you, or someone you know, need help navigating narcissistic and toxic coworkers, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you respond when more truths are revealed about your narcissistic family?  In this episode, I'm sharing 7 healthy responses.  It's painful when toxic relationships are normalized, especially among those who are supposed to love and protect you.  And generational trauma can fuel PTSD and other mental health issues.  So, you have to prioritize your health and wellbeing!  If you, or someone you know, need help responding - not reacting - when more truths are revealed about your narcissistic family, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How are you preparing your teen to navigate narcissism as an adult?  In this episode, I'm sharing 8 ways to do this.  It's normal to feel embarrassed about unhealthy relationships, not trusting your gut, and falling for the lies and manipulations of narcissists.  However, you can still make a difference!  If you, or someone you know, need help showing teens how to cultivate healthy relationships and to navigate narcissism as adults, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! Ever questioned whether or not you've done enough?  If you are enough?  In this episode, I'm sharing 5 tips to help the next generation, as a narcissistic abuse survivor.  It's normal to feel inadequate, after narcissistic abuse.  Yet, it provides an opportunity to heal and help others.     If you, or someone you know, need help using your pain for something powerful, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! Does your brain feel drained, after narcissistic abuse?  In this episode, I'm giving 5 reasons why, and tips on how to heal.  It's normal to feel mentally drained from toxic relationships.  And it's important to give yourself grace, as you reclaim your energy and mental wellbeing.     If you, or someone you know, need help identifying, navigating and healing from the brain drain fueled by the narcissist, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! Do you ever wonder why the narcissist goes dark?  In this episode, I'm breaking down 3 reasons for this behavior and how to navigate it.  Regardless of the nature of the toxic relationship, I've seen this pattern play out.  When this happens, it's important to set and reinforce healthy boundaries; and focus on your mental health and wellness.     If you, or someone you know, need help understanding and navigating when the narcissist goes dark, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you begin to self-regulate, after narcissistic abuse?  In this episode, I'm offering 5 reasons to disconnect from the narcissist or toxic situation.  I've had to do this in various relationships for the sake of my health and wellbeing.  It's a powerful tool, and it can help you too!     If you, or someone you know, need help disconnecting to self-regulate after narcissistic abuse, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you handle the narcissistic smirk?  In this episode, I highlight 3 things to note about this normal, yet negative, non-verbal cue.  I've dealt with this recently, and I know that behind this toxic power play, there is defensiveness, insecurity, and a need to mask it.  Don't be fooled!  And don't sacrifice your mental health by giving the narcissist the satisfaction that they got to you!     If you, or someone you know, need help navigating the narcissist's smirk, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! What are some red flags that you've noticed when the narcissist, or their enablers, propose a peace treaty?  This episode includes 4 red flags and how to navigate them.  I've been there, and I've learned that the narcissist needs you more than you need them; and there won't be any peace.  Don't engage!  You're worthy of healthy relationships that are mutually edifying.     If you, or someone you know, need help navigating narcissistic red flags and proposed peace treaties, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How do you react, when the narcissist tries to bait you?  This episode includes 7 ways to navigate the lies, false accusations, triangulation, projection, threats, and other toxic behaviors.  The struggle is REAL!  I've been there, and I'm here to help you prioritize your healing and healthy relationships.  Don't be fooled by the narcissist's chaos and drama!  You have the power!     If you, or someone you know, need help navigating narcissistic baiting, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Hey, Survivor! How have you been triggered by the narcissist in court?  In this episode, I'm sharing 7 trauma-informed suggestions on how to navigate these intense moments.  I'm sorry if this has happened to you, or is currently happening to you.  And I encourage you to prioritize your mental and emotional health and wellbeing.  You're worthy, strong, and capable!     If you, or someone you know, need strategies to manage narcissistic triggers, while navigating the court system, this episode is for you. Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.