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Subscribe in a reader Check out my product recommendations for Narcissist Abuse Survivors! – https://www.amazon.com/shop/tracymalone *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Listen to my podcasts anytime by subscribing with your favorite provider! The post Parental Alienation: When Your Ex Turns the Kids Against You | Lisa Johnson and Chris Barry appeared first on Narcissist Abuse Support.
Lawrence revisits one of the most practical and requested topics in the parental alienation community: family court. Drawing from insights shared by family law attorney Rachel King, he explores what many parents wish they understood before hiring an attorney, representing themselves, or standing before a judge whose decisions may profoundly impact their relationship with their children.The discussion focuses on preparation, advocacy, communication, courtroom strategy, and emotional regulation during high-conflict custody disputes. Lawrence reflects on how fear, urgency, and grief can influence decision-making, while highlighting tools that help parents stay grounded and informed throughout the legal process. For those navigating parental alienation and family court, this conversation offers realistic guidance, practical wisdom, and a reminder that living fully is not giving up, but an act of love and integrity.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding the judge's style can influence case outcomesAlways review legal invoices and fee agreements promptlySitting in court proceedings provides valuable insights into judicial behaviorEffective communication and emotional regulation are crucial in courtPreparation and knowledge of evidence rules can prevent case setbacksChapters00:00 - Introduction: The Chaos of Family Court01:02 - Revisiting Key Points from Rachel King's Interview01:56 - The Importance of Court Preparation and Self-Advocacy04:13 - Understanding Court Rules, Expectations, and Judge Behavior06:32 - Managing Legal Fees and Billing Transparency08:25 - Self-Representation: Pros, Cons, and Critical Tips14:15 - Observing Court Proceedings to Gain Insights16:01 - The Judicial Process and Judge Selection18:24 - The Impact of Court Procedures on Your Case20:47 - Continuous Learning and Emotional Self-Care22:01 - Final Thoughts: Support, Resources, and CommunitySupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programConnect with Us:Email your questions or insights: familydisappeared@gmail.comLike, share, and comment to help us reach more families in need.If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
"Parental alienation" is one of the most weaponised terms in family law. In this episode, Danielle Black takes the term apart, puts something more precise in its place - and explains why the protective parents on the receiving end of those accusations are almost never the ones doing the harm.Your child loves you. They may simply not feel safe to love you.This is the reframe I want every protective parent who has watched their child pull away to carry, because it changes everything."Parental alienation" is one of the most weaponised terms in family law. It is invoked, again and again, by parents accused of abuse to discredit the parent who has tried to protect their children from them. It is also gestured at to name a phenomenon that is genuinely real: one parent deliberately damaging a child's relationship with the other. The same term carries two very different things, and that ambiguity is precisely what makes it so easy to weaponise.In this episode I take the term apart, and put something more precise in its place - drawing on the work of Dr Emma Katz, the current Australian legal framework, and what I have learned from years of working with protective parents through exactly this. I address gender carefully, because the statistical pattern matters, and it is not the whole picture. And I offer two things to anyone living through any version of this: a framework for staying in your own lane when you are the one being accused, and a way of thinking about recovery and connection if your relationship with your child has been damaged.This episode follows episode 105. Coercive Control: What It Is, and What It Isn't. If you haven't heard that one, I'd recommend listening to it first as it sets the foundation this conversation builds on.In this episode:Why "parental alienation" survives despite being scientifically discredited - and how it functions as a coercive control tactic in its own right Dr Emma Katz's reframe: parent-child relationship sabotage, and Child and Mother Sabotage (CAMS)A note on gender and direction - most often, but not onlyWhat the current Australian family law landscape (post-2023) actually says, and how it differs sharply from the United StatesStaying in your own lane: a framework for responding to accusations from a grounded, protective placeRecovery and connection when your relationship with your child has been damaged: presence over pressure, autonomy over fixingIf what I've described is your life - whether you're facing these allegations or living through the sabotage itself - the full version of everything I've worked through here lives in the Blueprint: Module 19 for this, and Module 17 for the coercive control underneath it. It's there if and when you want to go deeper.Support: If you are in Australia and need to talk to someone, 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) is available 24/7. In an emergency, call 000.Explore the supports offered by Danielle Black CoachingThe Post-Separation Parenting Blueprint™
Subscribe in a reader Check out my product recommendations for Narcissist Abuse Survivors! – https://www.amazon.com/shop/tracymalone *As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Listen to my podcasts anytime by subscribing with your favorite provider! The post Parental Alienation or Divorce Trauma? The Truth About Why Kids Reject a Parent | Cathy Himlin appeared first on Narcissist Abuse Support.
In this conversation, Lawrence reflects on the emotional reality of parental alienation after reconnection finally begins to happen. Rather than relief alone, he shares the overwhelm, emotional exhaustion, and nervous system activation that can surface when hope, grief, fear, and love collide all at once. Through lived experience and recovery insight, the conversation explores what happens when parents spend years trying to fix, force, or hold everything together.The discussion touches on emotional regulation, identity, boundaries, recovery, and the difficult process of letting go of control while still remaining deeply connected to your child. Grounded in honesty rather than false resolution, it offers alienated parents a compassionate perspective on healing, resilience, and learning how to stay present through uncertainty. Living fully while navigating parental alienation is not giving up, it's an act of love, integrity, and emotional courage.Key Takeaways Why reconnection can feel emotionally overwhelmingLetting go without giving up on loveHow parental alienation reshapes identity over timeEmotional exhaustion behind “staying hopeful”Why nervous systems struggle with positive momentsBoundaries, regulation, and recovery after estrangementThe pressure to fix everything perfectlyLearning to live beyond parental alienationChapters00:00 - Introduction to Parental Alienation and Healing03:00 - The Journey of Self-Care and Emotional Intelligence05:49 - Isolation and Emotional Devastation08:41 - The Importance of Community and Support11:50 - Letting Go of Control in Relationships29:34 - Letting Go: A Path to Connection31:58 - Awareness and Family Dynamics35:47 - Boundaries: The Key to Healthy Relationships39:32 - The Complexity of Boundaries47:01 - Integrating Pain into Strength56:40 - The Journey of Recovery and GrowthSupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
In this conversation, Lawrence turns toward one of the most misunderstood emotional experiences in parental alienation: anger. Rather than viewing anger as the core issue, he reflects on how fear, grief, shame, helplessness, and emotional exhaustion often sit quietly underneath reactive patterns. Drawing from lived experience, recovery work, and nervous system awareness, Lawrence explores how alienated parents can become trapped between emotional suppression and emotional overload while trying to hold onto connection, identity, and hope.Blending emotional insight with grounded recovery principles, this conversation explores people-pleasing, emotional eating, black-and-white thinking, and the ways unresolved emotions quietly shape relationships and behavior over time. Rather than chasing perfection or emotional control, the focus becomes learning how to stay present with difficult emotions without collapsing into them. Living fully while navigating parental alienation is not giving up, it's an act of resilience, honesty, and integrity.Key TakeawaysAnger is a doorway, not a detriment, to understanding ourselves.Primary emotions are signals that need to be felt and processed.Secondary emotions often serve as protective strategies.Building emotional capacity is a gradual process that requires practice.Community and support are vital in emotional healing.Addressing fear underneath anger can transform relationships.Systemic family anger affects everyone and needs awareness.Self-compassion is essential in managing emotional struggles.Chapters00:00 - Understanding Anger in Parental Alienation03:00 - Exploring Primary and Secondary Emotions05:50 - The Role of Fear and Control in Anger08:41 - Navigating Relationships and Anger Dynamics11:59 - Chronic Anger and Its Impact14:50 - Systemic Anger and Its Ripple Effects17:44 - Practical Strategies for Managing Anger21:02 - Building Emotional Capacity and Community Support24:04 - The Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing26:57 - Final Thoughts on Anger and Relationships Support & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programConnect with Us:Email your questions or insights: familydisappeared@gmail.comLike, share, and comment to help us reach more families in need.If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
In the summer of 2023, two Utah teenagers barricaded themselves in an upstairs bedroom and livestreamed the standoff on TikTok for fifty-four days. Ty and Brynlee Larson were refusing a family court order that would have placed them in a reunification program with their father, Brent Larson, whom they had accused of sexual and emotional abuse, allegations he has consistently denied and was never criminally charged for. Three years later, their case is the subject of a four-part Hulu and Disney+ docuseries. Kate spoke with the director Caitlin Keating to talk about how she reported the story, what the court record could and couldn't show, and why this particular custody case became a national flashpoint. Reality Life with Kate Casey What to Watch List: https://katecasey.substack.com Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/katecasey Twitter: https://twitter.com/katecasey Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/katecaseyca Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itskatecasey?lang=en Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/113157919338245 Amazon List: https://www.amazon.com/shop/katecasey Like it to Know It: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/katecaseySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Co-parenting conversations can escalate fast, especially when an ex is reactive, manipulative, dismissive, or unreasonable. It's tempting to defend yourself, fire back, or make a quick decision just to escape the pressure. But that kind of response rarely moves things forward, and it can leave kids carrying the emotional weight of adult conflict.In this episode, we share practical tools to help you communicate with an ex in a way that is calm, clear, and solution-focused. You'll learn our 5 A's Framework for navigating hard co-parenting conversations, along with strategies for handling pressure, staying grounded, and setting healthy boundaries with confidence.We also open up about a painful moment in our own blended family story, when Kim felt pressured by her ex into making a major decision before she had time to think clearly or consult with Mike. From that experience, we share what we wish we had known then, and how these tools can help you protect your marriage, create greater stability for your kids, and build more peace in your home.Be sure to grab the free downloadable worksheet for this episode to help you plan your next hard conversation and put these tools into practice.You'll Discover:Why reactive communication with an ex often fuels ongoing conflict How to use the 5 A's Framework for clearer, more cooperative co-parenting conversations Three strategies for handling pressure-filled moments with greater steadiness A simple tool for setting healthy boundaries with an ex How consistency can build trust, influence, and greater stability for your kidsResources from this Episode:CLICK HERE to grab your free co-parenting communication worksheetEpisode 211. 8 Warning Signs Your Ex is Manipulating Your Child's Heart and MindEpisode 218. How to Positively Influence You Kids' Character When Your Ex Undermines Your Values Episode 207. 4 Big Myths About Parenting When an Ex Has Different Rules and How to Build Consistency Episode 232. 5 Principles to Manage Contact Between Homes and Promote Your Child's WellbeingEpisode 229. The Heavy Burdens Kids Carry: Loyalty Binds, Parental Allegiance and How to HelpEpisode 175. 8 Tips to Protect Kids From Stress and Tension When Moving Between HomesEpisode 161. How do Healthy Parent/Child Roles Help Avoid the Pitfalls of Parentification [ with Ron Deal & Lauren Reitsema]Episode 112. 3 Dangerous Dynamics That Can Destroy Co-Parenting - And Hurt the KidsEpisode 42. Our Challenging Story of Parental Alienation - and 6 Tips For YouEpisode 91. Is Your Husband's Hostile Ex-Wife Invading Your Life, Stealing Your Joy and Confidence?Episode 194. Powerful Tips for Effectively Connecting with Your Angry or Distant Child [with Amy J.L. Baker]Episode 226. How Two Homes Raise Kids That Thrive: A Blueprint for Caring Parents [with Jay & Tammy Daughtry]Ready for some extra support?We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help. You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home. Schedule your free call here: https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession
In this conversation, Lawrence Joss continues exploring PTSD, nervous system healing, and parental alienation with psychologist Faust Ruggiero. Together, they reflect on what happens after years of survival mode, when reconnection, hope, or positive change finally begins to appear, but the body still reacts with fear, overwhelm, and hypervigilance. Lawrence shares personal reflections on emotional eating, reconnecting with loved ones, and the challenge of staying present when even good moments feel emotionally intense.Blending lived experience with practical trauma insight, the discussion explores nervous system conditioning, emotional regulation, coping behaviors, support systems, and why healing rarely happens in isolation. Faust offers grounded guidance on recognizing trauma patterns, slowing reactivity, and rebuilding stability through small consistent actions rather than perfection. For parents navigating estrangement, grief, and reconnection, this conversation is a reminder that healing is not about erasing pain, it's about learning how to live alongside it with greater steadiness, compassion, and self-awareness. Living fully is not giving up, but an act of love and integrity.Key TakeawaysHypervigilance makes safety feel unfamiliarPositive emotions can still overwhelm the nervous systemTrauma responses affect daily coping behaviorsEmotional eating can become self-soothingReconnection often brings emotional disorientationNervous system healing happens gradually over timeSupport systems reduce emotional isolationHealing requires consistency, not perfectionPTSD impacts both mind and bodyChapters0:00 - Trauma And The Stuck Alarm2:44 - Numbing Out With Food4:37 - Past Memories Collide With Now9:01 - Process Over Perfect Resolution12:40 - Trust Shame And Feeling Worthy17:54 - Breathe First Then Find Facts20:47 - Spot Body Cues Early24:27 - DIY Healing Versus Professional Help26:25 - Supporting Someone With PTSD28:41 - The PTSD Handbook And Film32:39 - Final Takeaways And GoodbyeSupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programConnect with Us:Email your questions or insights: familydisappeared@gmail.comLike, share, and comment to help us reach more families in need.If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)To learn more or connect with Faust, visit:https://www.faustruggiero.com/Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Our guest on today’s livestream says not only is parental alienation (mental abuse of children) real, but that work and research done by child advocates show that it’s strongly correlated with having a mother/wife figure with Borderline Personality Disorder. Lisa Chynoweth is a licensed master social worker (LMSW), a mother, stepmother, and a coach/consultant for those dealing with developmental trauma. She joins the Disaffected livestream to talk about the effort get parental alienation recognized in custody cases so that family courts make decisions that are in the best interests of the children. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this conversation, Lawrence Joss and psychologist Faust Ruggiero explore the trauma responses many alienated parents experience while navigating parental alienation, estrangement, and high-conflict family systems. Together, they unpack how chronic stress, fear, hypervigilance, and unresolved grief affect the nervous system—and why many parents begin living in a constant state of emotional and physical survival.Blending clinical insight with lived experience, the discussion examines PTSD, nervous system dysregulation, emotional overwhelm, and the physical symptoms that often go unnoticed during alienation. Lawrence reflects on his own reconnection journey and the challenge of teaching the body to recognize safety again, even during positive moments. Grounded in recovery, self-awareness, and emotional regulation, this conversation reminds us that healing is not about becoming emotionless—it's about slowly coming home to yourself. Living fully is not giving up, but an act of love and integrity.Key Takeaways• PTSD changes how the body responds • Family dysfunction shapes trauma responses • Hypervigilance becomes a survival pattern • Emotional stress creates physical symptoms • Internal self-talk affects nervous system healing • Trauma distorts safety and emotional trust • Chronic alienation impacts mind and body • Healing requires emotional and physical awareness • Grounding practices support nervous system recovery • Self-regulation helps restore inner stabilityChapters00:00 - Understanding PTSD Beyond the Mind 04:53 - How Family Systems Shape Trauma 10:06 - Why the Body Holds Trauma 14:55 - Self-Talk and Nervous System Healing 20:07 - Balancing Emotional Reactions with Reality 24:53 - The Long-Term Impact of VictimizationSupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programConnect with Us:Email your questions or insights: familydisappeared@gmail.comLike, share, and comment to help us reach more families in need.If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Slam the Gavel welcomes back Lisa Goodpaster to the podcast. Lisa was last on Season 4, Episode 71 where we discussed her book, "Alienated, When Parents Won't Parent." Her work exposes a major gap in the frameworks used throughout the Parental Alienation space. The frameworks that are used in the courts to decide the child's best interest have never included a child's biology: the nervous system. That's no small oversight, IT IS A MASSIVE MISTAKE. Once parents understand the enormity of this, it becomes impossible not to see it.Today, we discussed why the biggest disruption in the child's biology has never been included in the courts.To Reach Lisa Goodpaster: alienatedbylisa@yahoo.com Supportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook: https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDklhttps://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/ Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboout*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited. Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making a derivative of the work or by owner displaying the podcast. Owner shall be held harmless and indemnified from any and all legal liability.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/
Lawrence Joss reflects on a deeply personal milestone, reconnecting with his daughter and meeting his grandchildren after years of parental alienation. What might seem like a moment of relief unfolds instead as something far more complex, bringing waves of emotion, uncertainty, and the challenge of learning how to show up in a relationship that is still taking shape.As he shares this experience, Lawrence explores the often-unspoken reality of reconnection: the emotional overwhelm, the return of grief, and the need for patience, boundaries, and nervous system regulation. This episode offers an honest look at what comes after contact returns, reminding us that healing is not a single moment, but an ongoing process. Living fully, even within uncertainty, is not giving up, but an act of love, integrity, and steady presence.Key TakeawaysReconnecting after long-term parental alienationWhy reconnection can feel overwhelming, not relieving Managing emotional activation before and after contact The non-linear nature of rebuilding relationships Setting boundaries during early reconnection Nervous system regulation in high-emotion moments The role of support systems in recovery Living fully without guaranteed outcomesChapters 00:00 - Navigating Overwhelm and Capacity 02:52 - Reconnecting with Family: Expectations and Challenges 06:01 - The Impact of Parental Alienation on Relationships 08:54 - Managing Emotional Responses to Positive and Negative Experiences 11:37 - Preparing for Reconnection: Questions and Boundaries 15:01 - The Journey of Self-Reflection and Compassion 17:57 - Understanding the Non-Linear Nature of Reconnection 20:46 - Finding Grace in the Process of Reconnection 23:39 - The Role of Support Systems in Healing 26:51 - Integrating Life Beyond Parental Alienation 29:40 - Embracing the Journey of Reconnection 32:53 - Final Thoughts and Moving ForwardSupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programConnect with Us:Email your questions or insights: familydisappeared@gmail.comLike, share, and comment to help us reach more families in need.If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Slam The Gavel covers another article by Michael "Thunder" Phillips written 5-02-2026 titled: "Parental Alienation as LABOR EXPLOITATION, Courts Know, Courts Are Not Complying. Great article written by Phillips citing that there are over 22+ million parents impacted in the U.S. alone. This article can be found on Substack.To Reach Michael "Thunder" Phillips: mike@thunderreport.org and FatherAndCo.substack.comSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook: https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDklhttps://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/ Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboouthttps://mailchi.mp/2ed059283bd7/signup*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited. Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making a derivative of the work or by owner displaying the podcast. Owner shall be held harmless and indemnified from any and all legal liability.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/
Lawrence continues with a Parental Alienation Anonymous panel to explore Part 2 of the grandparents experience, focusing on what happens after initial contact is made, but connection remains uncertain. Through lived experience, the panel reflects on navigating relationships with children and grandchildren where access, expectations, and emotional realities don't always align.The discussion moves through themes of pacing, control, aging, and recovery, highlighting the internal work required to stay grounded in the face of inconsistency. As perspectives shift over time, the conversation offers a deeper understanding of how to live with both hope and acceptance, reminding listeners that living fully is not giving up, but an act of love and integrity.KEY TAKEAWAYSRecovery is for the individual, not just the relationship.Community and shared experiences are vital for healing.Patience and pacing are crucial in rebuilding relationships.Aging brings awareness of time and the importance of presence.CHAPTERS00:00 - Understanding Recovery and Community Support 02:52 - Navigating Family Dynamics and Generational Trauma 05:44 - The Role of Nonviolent Communication in Relationships 08:42 - First Encounters with Grandchildren 11:52 - The Complexity of Relationships and Control 14:43 - Pacing in Relationships and Recovery 17:40 - Gifts, Boundaries, and Family Connections 20:50 - Aging and Its Impact on Relationships 23:58 - Legacy Planning and Emotional Awareness 26:37 - The Importance of Self-Care in Recovery 29:59 - Final Thoughts on Relationships and CommunitySupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programConnect with Us:Email your questions or insights: familydisappeared@gmail.comLike, share, and comment to help us reach more families in need.If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Dr. Alan Childs, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, and Jill Egizii, President and founder of the Parental Alienation Awareness Organization USA, join Karen Conti to highlight parental alienation ahead of Nation Parental Alienation Day on April 24th. Dr. Childs explains what qualifies as parental alienation, why parents do it, its long-term effects on children, and actions people should […]
In this heartfelt panel, Lawrence Joss brings together grandparents to explore the emotional realities of maintaining connection in the context of parental alienation. Through lived experience, they reflect on the quiet grief of distance, the moments of unexpected contact, and the deep love that continues even in the absence of regular relationships. This conversation offers a rare window into the grandparent perspective, one often overlooked, yet deeply affected by family separation.Together, the panel unpacks the complexity of holding both loss and hope at the same time. Themes of patience, resilience, identity, and intergenerational connection emerge, alongside the importance of community and shared understanding. This episode is a reminder that even when access is limited or uncertain, presence, love, and intention continue to matter in ways that may unfold over time.Ket TakeawaysDifferences between being a parent and grandparent in alienationEmotional impact of parental alienation on grandparentsStrategies for maintaining connection with grandchildrenThe role of recovery and self-work in healing family relationshipsGenerational trauma and breaking cyclesChapters00:00 - Introduction and Overview of Parental Alienation03:56 - Grandparents' Experiences and Emotional Impact09:27 - Communication and Connection Challenges12:53 - Differences in Relationship Dynamics17:37 - Handling Transitions and Moving Forward20:15 - Using Technology to Bridge the Gap23:38 - The Power of Small Changes and Responses25:56 - Reflections on Connection and Hope27:52 - Closing Thoughts and ResourcesSupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programConnect with Us:Email your questions or insights: familydisappeared@gmail.comLike, share, and comment to help us reach more families in need.If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
If you think family court works like a neutral machine that processes facts and outputs justice, I want you to pause and “lock in.” What wins in custody battles is rarely the tidy binder of receipts you brought to prove you're a good dad. What wins is the narrative, the momentum, and the record the court can scan quickly while clearing a packed docket. That's the dangerous myth we dismantle, because it lures well-meaning fathers into complacency and turns them into weekend visitors.We walk through the cold math behind fathers' rights and child custody outcomes, including why custodial fathers remain a small minority and why parenting time often lands near a level that minimizes a dad's real influence. Then we get blunt about the incentives driving the system: efficiency, risk management, and the lingering cultural assumptions that treat mothers as the default parent. I also share research and real-world observations that highlight the bias gap between what attorneys see and what judges believe about their own neutrality.From there, we pivot to solutions you can execute. We talk about taking operational control, bridging the “decision gap” between hearings, and building a documented record so dense it becomes procedurally hard to ignore. That means moving communication into a court-approved parenting app, creating a forensic paper trail, and mastering emotional regulation so provocation doesn't become “evidence” against you. If you're trying to keep things amicable, we cover why “amicable until it's not” is a real risk and how to prepare before the tone shifts. Being unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Risk Assessment: Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Protection Session: Book a private triage to ensure mistakes don't become permanent.Your kids are counting on you. Support the show
Continuing the conversation, Lawrence Joss and Stephanie Sternes, a licensed counselor and family systems expert, further explores the complex dynamics of loyalty binds, attachment, and family systems within the context of parental alienation and stepfamily relationships. Alongside Stephanie Sternes, a specialist in two-family systems, the focus deepens into how children and parents navigate competing loyalties, emotional pressure, and the challenge of maintaining connection across two-home environments.With both professional and lived perspective, Stephanie brings clarity to how attachment patterns and loyalty conflicts shape behavior within blended families. This episode offers a grounded lens into parental alienation and stepfamily dynamics providing insight, validation, and a more compassionate understanding of the emotional complexity many families are carrying.Key TakeawaysLoyalty binds override natural parent-child attachment Children feel forced to choose one parent Love becomes conditional in high-conflict families Attachment trauma shapes long-term emotional patterns Chronic stress impacts memory and identity development Sibling relationships divided by loyalty-based dynamics Adult relationships reflect unresolved childhood attachment wounds Healing begins through awareness and nervous system safety Chapters00:00 - Exploring Loyalty and Love in Family Dynamics02:52 - The Impact of Loyalty Binds on Relationships05:42 - Navigating Childhood Memories and Adult Relationships09:01 - Understanding Attachment and Loyalty in Parenting11:43 - Sibling Relationships in Divided Households14:38 - The Role of Step-Parents and Outsider Dynamics17:44 - Bad Advice and Misconceptions in Co-Parenting21:02 - Aha Moments in Understanding Family Systems23:52 - Finding Help and Resources for Families in TransitionIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)To learn more or connect with Stephanie, you can visit:https://www.stephsternes.comhttps://www.healingstoryranch.comResources Mentioned:Surviving and Thriving in Stepfamily Relationships by Patricia Papernowhttps://stepfamilyrelationships.com/The Smart Stepfamily by Ron L. Dealhttps://smartstepfamilies.com/Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSSupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and faThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
What if the moment your child starts pulling away isn't a sign of failure, but the beginning of a chapter you can still write?Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst has spent 50 years as a psychologist inside divorce cases, family courts, and the offices of struggling parents. What she's learned might change the way you see everything.In this powerful conversation, Lisa sits down with Dr. Vanderhorst to explore the real psychology behind parental alienation - how it starts, why children pull away, what's actually happening inside your child's developing mind, and what you can do right now to protect and rebuild your relationship with them.Dr. Vanderhorst introduces a framework that most parents have never heard: divorce doesn't just disrupt your child's relationship with you, it disrupts their sense of place and their attachment to the world itself. When children lose two of their three core attachments simultaneously, their behavior shifts in ways that look like alienation but are rooted in survival. Understanding this changes everything.She also offers a deeply compassionate reframe for parents whose children are actively refusing contact: treat your child like a traumatized rescue animal who needs to earn safety at their own pace, not a family member who owes you time. Set your ego aside. Give them space. Stay consistent. That patience, she explains, is what eventually brings children back - and she has decades of cases to prove it.If your relationship with your child has been damaged by a toxic co-parent, this conversation gives you both the psychological foundation for understanding what's happening and the practical strategies for responding with patience, dignity, and hope.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE✅ Why divorce disrupts a child's three core attachments — and what that means for their behavior✅ The subtle, nonverbal ways alienation happens without any spoken words✅ How to talk about your ex's traits in ways that help your child without harming yourself✅ What to do when your child's alienation is getting worse, not better✅ Why age 14 is the most critical and dangerous period for refusal behavior✅ The 'letter strategy' that kept one father connected across years of complete estrangement — and resulted in every one of his children returning✅ How to survive the shame and social isolation that comes with being a rejected parent✅ A simple feelings vocabulary tool that can help you and your children rebuild emotional connectionABOUT DR. GLORIA VANDERHORSTDr. Gloria Vanderhorst is a licensed psychologist with 50 years of clinical experience spanning the full human lifespan. She began her practice with preschool children and has worked with individuals and families through every stage of development. Dr. Vanderhorst has extensive experience in divorce-related psychological work, including court testimony, child and adult evaluations, and post-divorce parenting support. Her website offers a range of downloadable resources, including her highly regarded feelings vocabulary sheet.Website: www.drgvanderhorst.com
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Alex and Amanda sit down with Philip Viater, a family lawyer with 17 years of experience at VP Family Law Group, for one of the most candid conversations about the failures of family court we've ever had. Philip breaks down why parental alienation is predominantly used as a defense against abuse rather than a genuine diagnosis, why he views it as junk science not recognized by the DSM, and why the moment someone raises it in his cases he considers it a red flag. He also explains the concept of institutional betrayal trauma — what happens when a victim turns to psychologists, judges, social workers, and child protection services for help and gets re-victimized by the very systems designed to protect them.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our podcast guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the hosts or the podcast. We value diverse perspectives and aim to provide a platform for thoughtful discussion and exploration of different ideas.Got any comments, suggestions or queries? We'd love to hear from you! DM us on Instagram @dirty.laundry.podcast to be featured on one of our upcoming episodes. Also, don't forget to rate and review our show on your favourite podcast player.
In this conversation, Lawrence Joss sits down alongside Stephanie Sternes, a specialist in two-family systems, to explore the often-overlooked realities of blended families and the emotional complexity of navigating life across two homes. Together, they unpack how attachment, shifting roles, and stepfamily dynamics shape both parent and child experiences, especially in the presence of parental alienation and high-conflict family environments.With both professional and personal perspective, Stephanie brings awareness to the emotional layers within stepfamily dynamics, inviting greater understanding and compassion for what blended families and two-home systems hold. This episode offers a deeper lens into parental alienation and blended family dynamics, providing clarity and a more grounded way of understanding the complexity many families navigate.Key TakeawaysTwo-family systems and their impact on childrenAttachment, grief, and loss in blended familiesLoyalty binds and the love-loyalty paradoxHigh conflict, oppositional parenting, and abuse spectrumClinical training gaps and systemic understanding in therapy Chapters00:00 - Understanding Two-family Systems02:47 - The Impact of Grief and Loss on Family Dynamics05:49 - Navigating Attachment and Regulation in Two-family Homes08:48 - Misconceptions in Therapy for Two-family Systems12:03 - The Spectrum of Parenting Styles: Co-parenting vs. Oppositional Parenting14:46 - The Loyalty Bind: Navigating Love and Loyalty in Divided Families18:06 - The Role of Therapy in Healing Family DynamicsIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partSupport & Community:Parental Alienation Anonymous (PAA): Join our free 12-step support group with 16 online meetings weekly for parents, grandparents, family members, and previously alienated individuals seeking healing and recovery.PA-A.org: Parental Alienation Advocates is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering education, advocacy, and support for individuals grappling with the distressing impact of parental alienation, estrangement, erasure, and family disconnection.All our services are free and sustained by grants and community donations. Your support helps us continue offering these vital resources.Donate here: https://pa-a.mykajabi.com/donations-for-the-12-step-programThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Divorce isn't just emotional — it can turn into psychological warfare.In this livestream, I sit down with Chris and Lisa from Been There Got Out, two of the most experienced voices I've spoken with on high-conflict divorce, legal abuse, and custody battles.We dig into:Why “being a good guy” often backfires in family courtHow false allegations gain traction (and why men are especially vulnerable)The biggest mistakes men make when communicating with their exWhy courts reward cooperation — even when the other side is acting insaneParallel parenting vs co-parenting (and what NOT to call it in court)How manipulators weaponize kids, restraining orders, and the legal systemWhat to do if you're terrified of custody evaluations or taking the standChris and Lisa don't deal in theory. They deal with the worst cases — the ones that never “cool off” and never resolve on their own.If you're in a contentious divorce, haven't seen your kids, or feel like the system is stacked against you, this conversation will give you clarity, grounding, and practical direction.
In this week's episode of Social Work Radio, Vince and Cara unpack the growing fallout after a justice minister said parental alienation has no scientific basis, asking what that means for family courts, social work practice, and the parents and children caught in the middle. From the long shadow of the 2020 Harm Panel to the role of unregulated experts and the damage caused when safeguarding concerns are reframed as manipulation, the episode explores how a concept with no recognised diagnostic standing became so influential, and whether this moment could finally shift the system back towards child safety. Created by social workers, for social workers. Join the conversation every Friday morning.
This is an overview of misinformation and disinformation frequently encountered in cross-examination in parental alienation family law cases. Please visit www.naopas.com or www.drbobevans.com for more information on parental alienation and Dr. Evans.
This second part of the panel conversation explores what begins to change when parents shift from urgency to patience. Lawrence Joss and the panel reflect on the role of emotional safety, vulnerability, and self-awareness when relationships with children begin to reopen, even in small ways.Through deeply personal reflections, the panel discusses how reconnection rarely happens through persuasion or explanation. Instead, it often emerges slowly through presence, patience, and emotional steadiness. The conversation highlights how recovery communities, self-care, and learning to regulate one's own emotional responses can create the conditions for trust, healing, and sometimes renewed relationships.Key TakeawaysTaking care of oneself is crucial in building relationships.Patience is essential when communicating with loved ones.Safety cues can help foster trust in relationships.Emotional flooding can be managed through self-awareness.Recovery work provides a framework for personal growth.Finding balance in connection and disconnection is important.Community support plays a vital role in healing.Practicing self-compassion allows for better interactions with others.It's okay to take a pause during emotional conversations.The journey of recovery is ongoing and requires continuous effort.Chapters00:00 - Navigating Safety and Self-Care in Relationships03:10 - The Importance of Patience in Communication05:55 - Understanding Safety and Trust in Interpersonal Dynamics08:48 - Emotional Flooding and Managing Reactions12:10 - The Role of Recovery in Building Relationships14:59 - Finding Balance in Connection and Disconnection17:46 - Reflections on Emotional Highs and Lows20:58 - The Power of Community and Support23:52 - Final Thoughts on Personal Growth and ConnectionIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Dr. Stefanie Bennett Info:Dr. Stef holds a Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Transpersonal Psychology from the prestigious Sofia University, reflecting her commitment to holistic healing and spiritual wellness. She specializes in recovery from the complex trauma of Parental Alienation and Narcissistic Abuse.Stefanie is the author of transformative books, workbooks, journals, and oracle card decks that support survivors in reclaiming their inner light, rebuilding the "I", and stepping fully into spiritual sovereingty. Through her writing, workshops, and one-on-one mentorships, she offers a unique path to recovery, which helps you reclaim soul fragmentation, etheric imprints, and the deeper battle for your "I".Links:amazon.com/author/drstefaniebennettdrstefaniebennet.com
This conversation explores what parental alienation actually feels like for the parents and grandparents living through it. Lawrence Joss brings together several parents who share their lived experiences, the urgency, grief, and emotional chaos that often accompany the early years of alienation.Together, they reflect on how their understanding evolved over time. What once felt like a crisis to fix quickly slowly became a longer journey of patience, self-awareness, and support. Through honest stories and hard-earned perspective, the panel discusses how community, emotional regulation, and learning the “long view” can change the way parents navigate alienation and keep the door open for future reconnection.Key TakeawaysPatience allows children space to heal and processUrgency often leads to poor decision-making.The emotional impact of alienation can feel overwhelmingCommunity support is crucial for healing.Understanding the long view helps in managing expectations.Parents often feel like they are drowning emotionally.Pleading one's case can push children further away.The journey of reconnecting is often bumpy and unpredictable.Vulnerability builds trust during the reconnection processCalming the nervous system prevents reactive, harmful mistakesThe healing that went on just by being present in the same space was significant.Accept small gestures without demanding more contact.Patience is where the magic happens in relationships.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Parental Alienation05:05 - Personal Stories of Alienation10:02 - Understanding the Long View of Alienation14:46 - The Impact of Urgency on Decisions20:13 - Reflections on Emotional Responses20:42 - Navigating Parental Challenges23:09 - Building Connections with Children26:45 - The Journey of Reconnection32:35 - The Role of Patience and Safety40:50 - Transformative Conversations and HealingIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
In this episode of I Am Dad Podcast, host Kenneth Braswell welcomes Mark Ludwig for a powerful conversation about fatherhood, family courts, and the legislative battle to keep children connected to both parents. Mark Ludwig shares his deeply personal story of going 204 days without seeing his son, a painful experience that ultimately led him into the world of fatherhood advocacy and policy reform. What began as a personal struggle evolved into a national mission to educate advocates and legislators on shared parenting and family law reform. Together, Braswell and Ludwig unpack the realities many fathers face after separation or divorce, including parental alienation, legal barriers, and the adversarial nature of family courts. They also explore why legislative reform has become one of the most important tools for addressing systemic obstacles that prevent fathers from being meaningfully involved in their children's lives. The conversation covers: What shared parenting actually means Why the current family court system often creates “winners and losers” The emotional toll of parental separation on fathers and children The role of legislation in protecting father–child relationships Why messaging and language matter in fatherhood advocacy The growing national movement toward equal parenting laws Mark also discusses his new book, The Parental Alienation Playbook, which identifies common tactics used to disrupt parent–child relationships and provides strategies for fathers navigating difficult co-parenting environments. This episode is both a personal testimony and a strategic conversation about how fathers, advocates, and policymakers can work together to strengthen families and create healthier environments for children.
This conversation delves into the importance of emotional authenticity, the transformative power of somatic therapy, and the dynamics of parent-child relationships. The speakers discuss how communication patterns affect emotional expression and the significance of attunement in therapy. They explore the concept of hope and its relationship with personal growth, emphasizing the connection with nature as a means of grounding and self-discovery. Key TakeawaysIt's huge to be like, what would have that been like if my mom really saw me.Somatic therapy and somatic tracking can be life-changing.We continuously keep meeting each other where we are in therapy.Stripping away identification with emotions can lead to self-discovery.We don't take our emotions with us when we die; they are temporary.Sitting with feelings increases capacity for compassion.Parents often take their children's emotions personally, which disrupts the dynamic.We forgot what we would have liked when we were a child.There's a natural drive within us to explore and grow.It's normal to feel a range of emotions, and we share these experiences with humanity.Chapters00:00 - Exploring Emotional Authenticity02:57 - The Power of Somatic Therapy05:43 - Parent-Child Dynamics and Emotional Expression08:50 - The Role of Communication in Therapy11:52 - Attunement and Authenticity14:55 - Navigating Emotions and Hope17:57 - Connecting with Nature and Personal GrowthIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Connect with Brea Segger:https://www.breasegger.com/Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Lawrence Joss and Brea Segger, Master of Somatic Emotional Release explore the importance of presence and non-judgment in therapeutic settings, emphasizing the need for individuals to connect with their emotions and experiences without the pressure to 'fix' them. They discuss alternative therapeutic approaches that focus on co-regulation and emotional awareness, particularly in the context of grief and anxiety. The dialogue highlights the significance of witnessing others' emotional processes and the role of trust in navigating complex feelings. Ultimately, the conversation advocates for a compassionate and empowering approach to emotional healing.Key TakeawaysThe importance of showing up for others from a centered place.Therapy can be more effective when it allows for emotional exploration without a fixed outcome.Understanding and processing emotions can lead to deeper healing.Witnessing someone's grief can be more powerful than trying to alleviate it.Grief often encompasses a range of emotions, including anger and resentment.Building trust in one's emotional process can shorten the duration of grief.Allowing emotions to arise without judgment fosters resilience.Co-regulation between therapist and client creates a safe space for healing.Emotional processing can be facilitated by focusing on bodily sensations.Finding balance in emotional expression is key to mental well-being.Chapters00:00 - The Power of Presence and Non-Judgment02:53 - Exploring Alternative Therapeutic Approaches05:50 - Meeting People Where They Are09:08 - Navigating Anxiety and Emotional States11:47 - Understanding Grief and Its Complexities15:04 - The Role of Witnessing in Healing17:48 - Building Trust and Resilience in Emotions20:45 - The Journey Through Grief and Acceptance23:41 - Finding Balance in Emotional ProcessingIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Connect with Brea Segger:https://www.breasegger.com/Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Slam The Gavel welcomes back Natalia Dalton to the podcast. Natalia was last on Season 3, Episodes 26 and 144. Today Natalia discussed Parental Alienation and how it has affected her life and questions how it has affected her son. She read a beautiful poem to her son and is awaiting for him to return to her, and her arms will be open.To Reach Natalia Dalton: Natalia.dalton@gmail.comTo Reach Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook: https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDklhttps://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/ Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboout*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited. Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making a derivative of the work or by owner displaying the podcast. Owner shall be held harmless and indemnified from any and all legal liability.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/
Lawrence Joss explores the deeper emotional and systemic realities of parental alienation in this conversation with Cindy Hirsch, CEO of ISNAF (International Society for the New Alienated Family). Together, they examine why stability must come before reunification and how becoming a grounded, regulated “lighthouse parent” creates the conditions for reconnection. The discussion unpacks grief as a natural response to ambiguous loss, the impact of splitting and weak boundaries within family systems, and why healthy boundaries protect rather than punish. Joss and Hirsch emphasize that reunification is a long, non-linear process of reconnecting, reattaching, and rebuilding trust over time, and that meaningful change begins with personal agency and inner stability.Key TakeawaysParental alienation can be overwhelming and confusing.Building a supportive community is crucial for healing.Stability is essential for effective parenting during alienation.Grief is a natural response to loss, not a failure.Healthy boundaries are necessary to prevent alienation.Reunification is a long process that requires patience.Self-awareness and personal growth are key to navigating family dynamics.Emotional regulation helps in dealing with stressful situations.Support from professionals and peers is invaluable.Change in family systems starts with individual change.Chapters0:00 - Welcome And Community Resources1:31 - Why The Individual Shifts The System3:20 - Five Things No One Tells You5:21 - Stability First: The Lighthouse Parent7:35 - Practical Grounding And Support9:10 - Grief Explained And Normalized11:29 - Nonlinear Stages And Renewal13:07 - Losing The Inner Compass15:02 - Reintegrating The Self16:28 - Boundaries As Protection19:05 - Modeling Healthy Limits20:28 - The Long Arc Of Reunification23:10 - Letting Go And Creating Space25:05 - Resilience, Systems, And AgencyIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Lawrence Joss discusses the complexities of child development and attachment with Melanie Gill, an attachment specialist. They explore how parental influence shapes a child's brain development, the impact of disrupted attachment, and the long-term effects of cognitive dissonance and deception on children. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these dynamics to foster compassion and healing within families.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding child development is crucial for parents.Attachment relationships are fundamental to brain growth.Disrupted attachment can lead to lifelong patterns.Children adapt to survive in dysfunctional environments.Cognitive dissonance creates confusion in children.Lying has neurological costs for children.Emotional regulation can be reversed in unhealthy dynamics.Compassion is key to healing transgenerational trauma.Community support is essential for healing.Education and understanding can lead to better parenting.Chapters0:00 - Opening: Why Kids Suddenly Change 2:31 - Community Welcome And Mission 3:17 - Framing The Science Of Attachment 4:16 - Healthy Vs Disrupted Attachment 6:00 - Survival Adaptations Become Patterns 8:29 - Cognitive Dissonance In Alienation 10:40 - The Neurological Cost Of Lying 12:23 - Reversed Emotional Regulation 14:05 - Compassion, Tools, And Next StepsIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Slam The Gavel welcomes Bill Ayers, President of PA Bikers For Justice. Bill Ayers and others had gotten involved in helping victims of Parental Alienation through their work helping crime victims. They found a connection where many victims of child abuse and crimes against children had a connection to those children also being victims of Parental Alienation. This led to the changes in laws and policies and creating awareness of Parental Alienation. PA Bikers for Justice do rallies once a year during around the weekend of Parental Alienation. This year they will be having a rally in Lackawanna County, Lackawanna County Courthouse in PA. PA Bikers For Justice has assisted thousands of victims since 1997 as a community watch group in West Scranton PA, then escorting victims to court, and branching out in other counties and are now statewide. We discussed when an individual is released from prison, exonerated, they should be compensated so they don't end up homeless. Once exonerated the arrest record remains, so they have to go through an expungement process in which they petition the court and get a court order to expunge the arrest so it is no longer on their record. This could take two months to two years. Pennsylvania is indeed breeding poverty. To Reach Bill Ayers, President of PA Bikers For Justice: pabikersforjustice@gmail.com, on X: @PAbiker4justice, on Instagram: @pabikers4justice. TEXT: 570-209-8472Supportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook: https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDkl https://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/ Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboout*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited. Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making aSupport the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/
Slam The Gavel podcast welcomes new guests, Bob Terrien and Don Wenger. Today we talked about the history of the Loophole in 42 U.S.C. Subsection 659 AND 666. Because of that loophole, states are using to make money by converting veteran benefits into state revenue. It says that veteran benefits received by military retirees can be garnished if the retiree has waived military pay to receive compensation benefits from the VA. It should say that ALL VA benefits are exempt from Title IV-D, regardless of whether the veteran is retired or not. Congress has exercised constitutional power to make it clear that veteran benefits have always been totally exempt from state jurisdiction....To Reach Bob Terrien and Don Wenger: VeteranHope.orgSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook: https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDklhttps://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/ Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboout*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited. Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making a derivative of the work or by owner displaying the podcast. Owner shall be held harmless and indemnified from any and all legal liability.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/
Lawrence Joss explores the profound themes of mortality, parental alienation, and the emotional struggles that accompany them. He shares his personal journey through anxiety, recovery, and the fear of dying without reconciling with his children. The conversation delves into the importance of preparing for death, leaving a legacy, and the impact of community support in navigating these challenges. Joss emphasizes the need for proactive measures in parenting and the significance of sharing one's story with future generations.Key TakeawaysAm I gonna die before I get a relationship back with my kids?Death and grieving are monumental events.I thought I was there to stop drinking.I was in a white bed, in a white room.I was scared to die and I was sure I was going to die.I want them to see who I am in this moment.I never stopped parenting.Let's talk about this.I want to share some resources with my children now.This is a universal pain and suffering.Chapters00:00 - Facing the Unthinkable Question02:00 - Panic, Addiction Recovery & Not Knowing What Was Happening04:30 - Community as Lifeline & Learning I Couldn't Do This Alone06:45 - When the Body Holds Unresolved Grief08:45 - Making Friends with Death & Understanding the Family System10:45 - A Near-Death Medical Moment13:30 - Parenting Without Access Over Decades15:45 - Reclaiming Agency Through Legacy18:30 - From Me to We: Community, Meaning & Continuing to Live FullyIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.comThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Family law attorney Diana Romanov is here today to tell you what you really need to know about navigating the legal side of divorce, child support, and custody. We'll talk about the benefits of settling versus taking your case to a judge, what to do if your ex wants to move with the kids, how layoffs can affect child support, why a cost benefit analysis is so important when making legal decisions, and how to navigate high conflict divorce proceedings that include parental alienation or child safety. Connect with Diana: https://www.romanovlaw.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@Diana-Romanov Join Elevate: Group Coaching For The High Level Stepmom www.jamiescrimgeour.com/elevate Subscribe to my Substack: https://substack.com/@jamiescrimgeour Get My Ebook - 120 Ways To Be A KICK-ASS Stepmom www.jamiescrimgeour.com/ebook Episode Sponsors: Cozy Earth | www.cozyearth.com and use the code COZYJAMIE
In this insightful conversation, Lisa Cohen shares her 26-year journey through parental alienation, detailing the emotional turmoil, the challenges of navigating the court system, and the importance of community support. She reflects on her evolution from anger to acceptance, the role of service in her healing process, and the lessons learned along the way. Lisa emphasizes the need for self-care, resilience, and the hope that one day her children will find their way back to her. This discussion serves as a beacon of hope for those facing similar struggles, highlighting the importance of living a full life while navigating the complexities of family dynamics.Key TakeawaysParental alienation can lead to deep emotional pain and anger.Community support is crucial for healing and resilience.Navigating the court system can be a long and arduous process.Self-care and living a fulfilling life are essential for parents in crisis.Hope exists, but it must be tempered with realism.Service to others can be a powerful tool for personal healing.It's important to embrace life and find joy amidst struggles.Children may not recognize their own challenges due to alienation.The journey of healing is ongoing and requires patience.Every parent's experience with alienation is unique, but shared struggles can foster connection.Chapters00:00 - Navigating Parental Alienation: A Mother's Journey 02:43 - The Evolution of Pain: From Anger to Acceptance 05:58 - Finding Community: The Power of Support Groups 08:41 - The Long Road: Understanding the Court System 11:57 - Living with Hope: The Reality of Alienation14:45 - Embracing Life: Finding Joy Amidst Struggles 17:46 - The Role of Service: Helping Others Heal 20:46 - Lessons Learned: Advice for Parents in Crisis 23:42 - The Importance of Self-Care: Living Fully 26:48 - Legacy and Hope: A Mother's Unwavering LoveIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Connect with Lisa Cohen:https://www.jump-parenting.org.ukPlease donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
This episode discusses the human experience and relational life therapy with Elyse Killoran Please visit www.naopas.com or www.drbobevans.com for more information on parental alienation and Dr. Evans.
Lawrence Joss delves into the complex issue of parental alienation and estrangement, emphasizing that these challenges are not merely family issues but systemic problems that require a broader understanding and intervention. He introduces five key reasons that contribute to these dynamics, drawing insights from therapist Kathy Himlin, who has extensive experience working with families affected by these issues. The conversation highlights the emotional turmoil children face when feeling rejected by a parent, the detrimental effects of prolonged separation, and the role of the legal system in exacerbating these problems. Joss and Himlin discuss actionable steps for parents to repair relationships and the importance of attachment-focused parenting in fostering reconnection.Key TakeawaysParental alienation is a systemic issue, not just a family problem.Children often feel rejected when they reject a parent, indicating an attachment rupture.Time without contact deepens trauma and reinforces feelings of rejection.The legal system can worsen family dynamics by prioritizing litigation over healing.Attachment-focused parenting can help reopen doors to connection.Chapters00:00 – Parental Alienation Is More Than a Family Problem 01:06 – Who This Episode Is For & Why Awareness Matters 01:55 – Children Reject When They Feel Rejected 03:33 – Understanding Attachment Ruptures in Development 05:04 – Why Time Without Contact Deepens Trauma 07:01 – Foster Care vs. Family Court: A Critical Gap 08:45 – How the Legal System Can Worsen Alienation 09:29 – When Litigation Replaces Healing 10:20 – Attachment-Focused Parenting That Reopens Doors 13:39 – Healing Is Still Possible, Even After YearsIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Connect with Dr. Rebecca Bailey:https://polyvagalequineinstitute.comPlease donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.comThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Coach, Researcher and Parental Alienation Expert Dr. Amy Baker and I had one of the most in-depth conversations about parental alienation I have had in my 11+ years as a Stepmom. We cover the signs of parental alienation, the shift from angry co-parent to parental alienation, the long-term effects of parental alienation, strategies for overcoming it with both teens and younger kids, how to navigate conversations with the other parent, supporting your partner if they are experiencing parental alienation, and the legal strategies available to you in order to protect your relationship with your kids or stepkids. For more from Dr. Amy Website: https://www.amyjlbaker.com/about-parental-alienation Masterclass: Stop Letting A High Conflict Ex Highjack Your Life www.jamiescrimgeour.com/masterclass Join Elevate: Group Coaching For The High Level Stepmom www.jamiescrimgeour.com/elevate Subscribe to my Substack: https://substack.com/@jamiescrimgeour Get My Ebook - 120 Ways To Be A KICK-ASS Stepmom www.jamiescrimgeour.com/ebook Episode Sponsors: Cozy Earth | www.cozyearth.com and use the code COZYJAMIE
In Part 2 of this conversation, Lawrence Joss continues his dialogue with psychologist and Polyvagal Equine Institute founder Dr. Rebecca Bailey, exploring how equine therapy and everyday interactions with animals support nervous system regulation and healing in the context of parental alienation and family trauma. Drawing from decades of clinical work, Dr. Bailey shares powerful stories that show how horses mirror emotional states, challenge rigid narratives, and create moments of connection, humor, and perspective. Together, they highlight why healing doesn't always come through talking, how safety and consent shape meaningful therapeutic work, and how parents can continue parenting, even without access, by focusing on regulation, connection, and inner stability.Key TakeawaysEquine therapy offers unique access points for emotional healing.Personal relationships with animals can enhance emotional regulation.Co-regulation is essential for emotional well-being and therapy.Horses can help individuals process trauma without delving into past experiences.Therapists must prioritize informed consent and safety in equine therapy.The evolution of equine therapy practices reflects changing societal needs.Reality clarification can help families understand their dynamics better.Co-regulation can occur between humans and horses, fostering emotional connection.Future equine therapy practices should focus on high standards and training.Therapists should empower clients to be experts in their own emotional regulation.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Equine Therapy and Emotional Regulation02:48 - Personal Experiences with Animals and Emotional Connection05:47 - The Role of Horses in Therapy and Co-Regulation08:58 - Understanding Trauma and the Therapeutic Process11:53 - The Evolution of Equine Therapy Practices14:53 - Co-Regulation and Its Importance in Therapy17:47 - Anecdotes and Insights from Equine Therapy Sessions20:52 - Future of Equine Therapy and Coaching24:03 - Concluding Thoughts on Emotional Healing and ConnectionIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Connect with Dr. Rebecca Bailey:https://polyvagalequineinstitute.comPlease donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
In this episode of the Meaningful People Podcast, Tuvia Blau and Hindy Herman address one of the most painful and least talked-about struggles in our community: parental alienation and family estrangement. They unpack what estrangement actually looks like, how it develops, and why the emotional toll on parents and adult children alike can feel unbearable. With honesty and compassion, Tuvia and Hindy explore both sides of the story, parents and children, touching on boundaries, shame, communication breakdowns, and the tools needed for healing. This conversation isn't about blame. It's about understanding, growth, and the possibility of rebuilding connection, even when it feels impossible. This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ► Colel Chabad Pushka App The easiest way to give Tzedaka https://pushkapp.cc/meaningful _________________________ ► Move to San Antonio - The Other Texas A growing Jewish community offering warmth, learning, affordability, and opportunity. Small-town feel, strong values, and a big future just outside Austin. https://www.rodfeisholom.com/movetosa _________________________ ►Rothenberg Law Firm Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years! Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation https://shorturl.at/JFKHH __________________________ ► Town Appliance Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp https://www.townappliance.com https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp __________________________ ► Pesach with Bordeaux
A listener pushes back and asks, "How do we know the parent claiming alienation isn't actually the abuser manipulating the narrative?"When a child rejects contact with a parent after separation, is it parental alienation or justified estrangement?In this week's fan mail, a listener pushes back with a challenge about a previous episode that aired October 16, 2025, titled "Why Does My Ex Always Blame Me When the Kids Want Nothing to Do with Him?" This listener wanted to know how to tell when the person complaining about a toxic co-parent isn't actually the abuser.Dr. Kerry unpacks the difference between alienation and estrangement, and what "fostering a relationship" actually means when required by a custody agreement.Got a question or pushback? Send it via the link below or email clients@kerrymcavoyphd.comSubmit your question to be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Support the showDisclaimer: This podcast/video is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or your local emergency number.
Lawrence Joss continues his discussion with Matthew Brickman, a Supreme Court Certified Mediator in Florida. Together, they unpack the role of mediation in family conflict, including how mediators support the process and what to consider when choosing the right professional. Drawing from years of experience, Matthew highlights the value of ongoing learning, self-awareness, and growth in effective mediation. The conversation also explores the emotional realities clients face and the importance of empowerment and agency throughout the mediation journey.Key TakeawaysEquine therapy helps individuals learn about their own nervous system.The presence of horses can facilitate emotional safety and connection.Children often project their feelings onto horses, aiding in therapy.Building trust with horses reflects the importance of boundaries in relationships.Humor can be a powerful tool in therapeutic settings.Equine therapy can help navigate high-conflict family dynamics.The process of co-regulation is essential for emotional healing.Horses model the ability to calm down after being startled.Therapy with horses allows access to emotions that traditional methods may not reach.The unpredictability of life is mirrored in the interactions with horses.Chapters00:00 - Understanding Equine Therapy and Its Context 02:54 - The Role of the Nervous System in Therapy 05:50 - Equine Therapy: A Unique Approach to Healing 08:44 - The Connection Between Horses and Human Emotions 12:05 - Navigating Family Dynamics Through Equine Therapy 14:51 - Practical Applications of Equine Therapy 18:03 - The Impact of Trauma on Children and Families 20:48 - Building Trust and Boundaries with Horses 23:45 - The Unpredictability of Life and Therapy 26:52 - Conclusion: The Healing Power of HorsesIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Connect with Dr. Rebecca Bailey:https://polyvagalequineinstitute.comPlease donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
This conversation explores the transformative power of travel and cultural experiences in shaping family dynamics and personal growth. The speakers discuss the impact of parental alienation, the evolution of fatherhood, and the importance of being present in children's lives. They share insights on cultural connections, ancestry, and the significance of community in nurturing relationships. The discussion also delves into the themes of failure, recovery, and the journey of writing a book that encapsulates their experiences.Key TakeawaysTravel can provide children with a broader perspective on life.Cultural experiences can strengthen family bonds and connections.Fatherhood is evolving from transactional to transformational.Being present with children is more important than perfection.Understanding ancestry can deepen children's sense of identity.Community plays a crucial role in family dynamics.Personal growth often comes from embracing failure and learning from it.Intentional parenting can help break cycles of alienation.The power of pausing allows for reflection and growth.Sharing stories can inspire others and foster connection.Chapters00:00 - Navigating Parental Alienation Through Global Experiences 03:32 - Transforming Perspectives on Fatherhood 11:49 - Cultural Connections and Ancestry 15:52 - The Power of Presence and Intentionality 20:51 - Embracing Failure and Recovery 25:20 - Reflections on Change and Community Support 27:11 - Navigating Parental Alienation Through Global Experiences 30:44 - Transforming Perspectives on Fatherhood 39:19 - Cultural Connections and Ancestry 46:01 - The Power of Pausing and Personal Growth 49:02 - Understanding Failure Immunity 52:32 - Hope and Intentional ParentingIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast: Email - familydisappeared@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree) Please donate to support PAA programs: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
Lawrence Joss engages in a deep conversation with Charles Achampong about the transformative experience of taking a family trip around the world. They explore themes of parenting, reparenting, emotional inheritance, and the impact of travel on family dynamics. Charles shares insights on legacy, the importance of cultural exposure, and the challenges of navigating family connections, especially in the context of parental alienation. The discussion highlights the lessons learned from their journey and the lasting effects on their children's development and understanding of the world.Key TakeawaysTraveling can significantly influence children's perspectives and resilience.Legacy is about the experiences and memories we create with our children.Emotional inheritance includes the coping mechanisms and feelings passed down through families.Understanding one's ancestry can enrich a child's sense of identity.Traveling as a family can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.Children can adapt and thrive in new environments, given the right support.The importance of allowing children to express their emotions and experiences.Cultural exposure can broaden children's understanding of the world.Planning and communication are key when making significant family decisions.Reintegration into daily life after travel can present challenges for families.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Parenting and Reparenting02:43 The Impact of Travel on Family Dynamics05:54 Understanding Legacy and Emotional Inheritance09:57 Navigating Family Connections and Ancestry13:57 The Challenges of Traveling with Children17:56 Lessons Learned from a World Trip21:06 The Importance of Cultural Exposure23:40 The Decision to Take a Family Sabbatical27:53 Reintegration into Daily Life32:01 Reflections on Fatherhood and Parenting35:47 Conclusion and Call to ActionIf you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:Email - familydisappeared@gmail.comLinktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss(All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)Please donate to support PAA programs:https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom partThis podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-hostGlaze Gonzales- Podcast ManagerConnect with Lawrence Joss:Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/Email- familydisappeared@gmail.com
What if your greatest fear as a parent has already come true?You can feel it — your child pulling away, repeating phrases that don't sound like them, looking at you through someone else's eyes. This is the painful reality of parental alienation, one of the covert narcissist's most devastating tools of control. In this episode, Renee Swanson explains how covert narcissists quietly rewrite your child's reality — turning love into confusion and connection into distance. You'll learn the subtle tactics they use to alienate your child, why it works, and how to stay grounded when you feel powerless. Through empathy, insight, and real-life understanding, Renee offers hope for parents living through this invisible heartbreak — and guidance for protecting your peace while keeping the light of love steady. THE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY RENEE SWANSON, COVERT NARCISSISM PODCAST, AND CNG LIFE COACHING IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT TO BE USED FOR DIAGNOSIS PURPOSES AND NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR CLINICAL CARE. PLEASE CONSULT A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER FOR GUIDANCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CASE. THIS MATERIAL DISCUSSES NARCISSISM IN GENERAL. RENEE SHARES STORIES FROM HER PERSONAL EXPERIENCES AS WELL AS FROM THOSE SHE HAS TALKED WITH FOR SEVERAL YEARS. HER MATERIAL DOES NOT CLAIM THAT ANY SPECIFIC PERSON HAS NARCISSISM AND SHOULD NOT BE USED TO REFER TO ANY SPECIFIC PERSON AS HAVING NARCISSISM. PERMISSION IS NOT GRANTED TO LINK TO OR REPOST THIS MATERIAL TO SUPPORT AN ALLEGATION OR SUPPORT A CLAIM THAT ANY SPECIFIC PERSON IS A NARCISSIST. THAT WOULD BE AN UNAUTHORIZED MISUSE OF THE MATERIAL AND INFORMATION PROVIDED. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
If you've ever heard the dreaded words, “I love you but I am not in love with you,” or, more bluntly, “I want a divorce,” you know what follows is a mental and emotional rollercoaster of epic proportion. But what you probably don't know is what to do if that day comes and what your rights might be when it comes to protecting yourself, your money, and your relationship with your children. My guest today, Attorney David Pissara, has made it his life's work to help men navigate what is likely the most difficult part of his life – post-divorce. Today, we talk about how to avoid conflict during these times while simultaneously protecting your rights, the emotional manipulation many men face and how to confront it, whether or not the family court system is biased and what to expect when dealing with the courts, what indicators to be on the lookout for you to recognize if a divorce is pending, and even how AI may change family law. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:17 – Introduction and Context 01:05 – Why Men Struggle in Divorce 02:58 – Men, Vulnerability, and Leadership 08:33 – Marriage as a Contract 12:37 – The Question of Fairness in Divorce Settlements 17:01 – What Men Should Look for in Women 20:18 – Predictors of Divorce and Commitment 21:27 – The Danger of Social Isolation 25:51 – Balancing Happiness and Sacrifice 28:15 – Feminism, Disney, and Unrealistic Expectations 31:12 – Dating Standards and Preferences 36:12 – The Dreaded “I Want a Divorce” Moment 37:00 – How Women Strategize Divorce 39:23 – Abuse vs. Violence in Relationships 43:40 – How Courts Handle Restraining Orders 46:06 – Why Men Rarely File Restraining Orders 49:40 – Civil vs. High-Conflict Divorces 52:02 – Should Men Stay or Leave the House? 54:38 – Resources for Fathers in Custody Battles 57:46 – Strategies for High-Conflict Personalities 59:39 – No-Fault Divorce and Its Impact 01:04:00 – Handling Loans and Slander in Divorce 01:06:52 – Bias in Family Courts and AI Judges 01:09:59 – Parental Alienation and Legal Strategy 01:11:00 – Wrap-Up and Post-Show Instructions Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready