Podcasts about Scary Mommy

Ever wonder why your in-laws rallied around your abusive partner instead of protecting you?This episode explores one of the most painful dynamics in narcissistic abuse: when families choose to protect the abuser and paint YOU as the problem. We revisit a past interview with Rossana where she shares her firsthand experience of this dynamic along with a Fan Mail listener who experienced something similar. In this special episode, we'll revisit the six psychological reasons why loving families can transform victims into villains, why "closing ranks" happens, and what you can do when you're caught in the crossfire of toxic family loyalty. PODCAST EXTRA Next week, the Podcast Extra exclusive interviews will return. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT All Substack paid subscribers now receive immediate access to the Toxic-Free Relationship Club, which includes: • Invitation to the monthly Q&A with Dr. Kerry • Quarterly club-wide events featuring narcissistic abuse experts • Weekly newsletter with exclusive insights •

If you've been dragging some of last year around with you, or you've been feeling that strange mix of excitement and pressure that shows up every January, this episode is calling your name. Closing out the year, the POTC cohosts are bringing you a conversation about how creativity can be a lifeline, a mindset shift, and a really enjoyable way to start 2026 feeling more like yourself.Walking you through simple ways to reflect on the past year, we share some creative exercises that spark real insight and explore how tuning into your creative side can help you make meaning, connect with people, and better handle the tough stuff life throws at you. If you're craving more joy, connection, or just a new angle on the year ahead, you're bound to find something that resonates.So settle in, and join us in starting the year with intention, curiosity, and a little touch of creativity.Listen and Learn: Reflection Exercises, including: Finding Meaning: Reflecting on the past year, where were you last New Year's, and what were your biggest highs and lows since thenMeaningful Moments: Reflecting on two or three meaningful moments from the past year and vividly recalling the sights, sounds, and feelings of each experienceLessons, Wins and Moving Forward: Reflecting on your past year to uncover lessons from mistakes, celebrate achievements, and clarify what truly matters to you as you move into 2026Vision for the Year Ahead: Reflecting on what you truly want, the areas you've neglected, and the values you want to prioritize in the year aheadHow incorporating creative, life-affirming activities can boost your well-being and help you navigate life's challengesPractical exercises and tips to spark more creativity in your life in the new yearResources: Access the New Year's Reflection Questions from this episode (.pdf or editable MS Word versions available) Debbie's Guided Journaling Substack with writing prompts and a 30-day journaling challengeYear Compass worksheets: https://yearcompass.com/Word of the Year and Unravel Your Year worksheets by Susannah Conway: https://www.susannahconway.com/unravel Creative Mornings: https://creativemornings.com/ Jill | Betrayal Weekly: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jill-betrayal-weekly/id1615637724?i=1000726003078 If you have a story connected to trauma, crime, or someone who's caused harm—and you feel ready to share it—Jill would love to hear from you. You can book a free 30-minute consult at:https://jillstoddard.com/contact-us About the POTC CoHosts: Debbie Sorensen, PhD, Co-hostDebbie (she/her) is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Denver, Colorado with a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Anthropology from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Harvard University. She is author of the book ACT for Burnout: Recharge, Reconnect, and Transform Burnout with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and co-author of ACT Daily Journal: Get Unstuck and Live Fully with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She loves living in Colorado, her home state, with her husband, two daughters, and dog. When she's not busy working or podcasting, she enjoys reading fiction, cooking, traveling, and getting outdoors in the beautiful Rocky Mountains! You can learn more about Debbie, read her blog, and find out about upcoming presentations and training events at her webpage, drdebbiesorensen.com.Jill Stoddard, PhD, Co-hostJill Stoddard is passionate about sharing science-backed ideas from psychology to help people thrive. She is a psychologist, writer, TEDx speaker, award-winning teacher, peer-reviewed ACT trainer, bariatric coach, and co-host of the popular Psychologists Off the Clock podcast. Dr. Stoddard is the founder and director of The Center for Stress and Anxiety Management, an outpatient practice specializing in evidence-based therapies for anxiety and related issues. She is the author of three books: The Big Book of ACT Metaphors: A Practitioner's Guide to Experiential Exercises and Metaphors in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy; Be Mighty: A Woman's Guide to Liberation from Anxiety, Worry, and Stress Using Mindfulness and Acceptance; and Imposter No More: Overcome Self-doubt and Imposterism to Cultivate a Successful Career. Her writing has also appeared in The Washington Post, Psychology Today, Scary Mommy, Thrive Global, The Good Men Project, and Mindful Return. She regularly appears on podcasts and as an expert source for various media outlets. She lives in Newburyport, MA with her husband, two kids, and disobedient French Bulldog. Michael Herold, Co-HostMichael (he/him) is a confidence trainer and social skills coach, based in Vienna, Austria. He's helping his clients overcome their social anxiety through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and fun exposure exercises. (Though the jury is still out on whether they're mostly fun for him). He is also a certified therapeutic game master, utilizing the Dungeons&Dragons tabletop roleplaying game to train communication, assertiveness, and teamwork with young adults. Or actually, anyone ready to roll some dice and battle goblins in a supportive group where players want to level up (pun!) their social skills. Michael is the head coach of the L.A. based company The Art of Charm, running their confidence-building program “Unstoppable” as well as workshops on small talk, storytelling, vulnerability, and more. He is the scientific advisor and co-producer of their large podcast with more than 250 million downloads. As a member of the Association for Contextual Behavioral Science (ACBS), Michael is the current President of the ACT Coaching Special Interest Group with nearly 1,000 coaches worldwide, and the co-founder of the ACT in Austria Affiliate of ACBS, a nationwide meetup for ACT practitioners in Austria. He's a public speaker who has spoken at TEDx, in front of members of parliament, universities, and once in a cinema full of 500 kids high on sugary popcorn. In a previous life, he was a character animator working on award-winning movies and TV shows such as “The Penguins of Madagascar” and “Kung Fu Panda”. That was before he realized that helping people live a meaningful life is much more rewarding than working in the film business – even though the long nights in the studio allowed him to brew his own beer in the office closet, an activity he highly recommends. Michael grew up with five foster kids who were all taken out of abusive families. His foster sisters showed him how much positive change is possible in a person if they have the love and support they need.Emily Edlynn, PhD, Co-HostEmily (she/her) is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in pediatric health psychology who works in private practice with children, teens, and adults. She has a BA in English from Smith College, a PhD in clinical psychology from Loyola University Chicago, and completed postgraduate training at Stanford and Children's Hospital Orange County. Emily spent almost ten years working in children's hospitals before pivoting to private practice, which allowed her to start a writing career. Emily has written her blog, The Art and Science of Mom, since 2017 and a parenting advice column for Parents.com since 2019. Emily's writing has also appeared in the Washington Post, Scary Mommy, Good Housekeeping, Motherly, and more. She recently added author to her bio with her book, Autonomy-Supportive Parenting: Reduce Parental Burnout and Raise Competent Confident Children and has a Substack newsletter. Emily lives with her husband, three children, and two rescue dogs in Oak Park, IL where she can see Chicago's skyline from her attic window. Yael Schonbrun, PhD, Co-hostYael (she/her) is a licensed clinical psychologist who wears a number of professional hats: She has a small private practice specializing in evidence-based relationship therapy, she's an assistant professor at Brown University, and she writes for nonacademic audiences about working parenthood. She has a B.A. from Washington University in St. Louis, a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and completed her postgraduate training at Brown University. In all areas of her work, Yael draws on scientific research, her clinical experience, ancient wisdom (with an emphasis on Taoism), and real life experiences with her three little boys. You can find out more about Yael's writing, including her book, Work, Parent, Thrive, and about her research by clicking the links. You can follow Yael on Linkedin and Instagram where she posts about relationship science or subscribe to her newsletter, Relational, to get the science of relationships in your email inbox!Related Episodes: 410. Creativity and Making Things with Kelly Corrigan and Claire Corrigan Lichty345. Writing for Personal Growth with Maureen Murdock211. Subtract with Leidy Klotz73. Essentialism with Greg McKeown257. The Gift of Being Ordinary with Ron Siegel 37. Post-Traumatic Growth with Diana and Debbie375. Midlife: From Crisis to Curiosity with Meg McKelvie and Debbie Sorensen 285. What Do You Want Out of Life? Values Fulfillment Theory with Valerie Tiberius 351. You Only Die Once with Jodi Wellman 138. Exploring Existence and Purpose: Existentialism with Robyn Walser 329. The Power of Curiosity with Scott ShigeokaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can a psychopath be a good person? And how do we spot dangerous people when they seem so charming? This holiday special brings you an in-depth answer to one of your most-asked questions with highlights from Dr. Kerry's interview with Tara Blair Ball about the Dark Triad Personality.  We explore why dangerous people don't look scary, how we underestimate predatory behavior through "positive projection," and the critical difference between niceness and kindness—especially important to remember during the holiday season. CHAPTERS0:38 Can Psychopaths Live Morally?7:09 Narcissism, Psychopathy & Machiavellianism Explained10:09 Why We're Attracted to Arrogance & Confidence13:04 The Stages of Moral Development17:45 The Mask of Sanity: Nice Doesn't Mean Good22:48 The Light Triad: The Opposite of Dark PersonalitiesPODCAST EXTRA This week, there is no exclusive Podcast Extra interview. Instead, we're offering this special holiday edition to ALL Substack subscribers as our gift to you!  This is the perfect time to join our community. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT All Substack paid subscribers now receive immediate access to the Toxic-Free Relationship Club, which includes: -Invitation to the monthly Q&A with Dr. Kerry -Quarterly club-wide events featuring narcissistic abuse experts -Weekly newsletter with exclusive insights Find the Substack newsletter and join the community here: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse 

"How do I know if I'm in an emotionally abusive relationship?" asks a YouTube listener. In this episode, Dr. Kerry explains why even asking this question is an important sign of possible trouble. Dr Kerry will outline what emotional abuse actually looks like (hint: it's not about one-off incidents—it's about patterns) and why you might feel like you're shrinking or walking on eggshells.  Abusive relationships turn people into a functional object instead of letting them shine as a fully autonomous and complex person. Submit Your Question If you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here:

In this episode of 'Own Your Pleasure', Whitni Miller and Dr. Lex Brown James continue their conversation and explore the intricate dynamics of relationships, trauma, and pleasure. They discuss the importance of understanding personal values in relationships, navigating trauma, and expanding the concept of sexual pleasure. The conversation emphasizes the need for community, curiosity, and joy in the face of societal challenges, while also addressing the significance of self-care and training one's social media algorithms to foster positive connections. Dr. Lexx Brown-James, LMFT, CSE, CSES is a premiere sexologist centering pleasure as a connective tool for shame free sexuality education and building intimate partner connection. As an AASECT certified sexuality educator and supervisor, Dr. Lexx lectures, trains, and does therapy for academic, professional and general audiences. As a multiple time best seller, Dr. Lexx is an international sexologist. Featured in prominent media like CNN, Essence, It Gets Better, Scary Mommy, and Therapy for Black Girls, Dr. Lexx's goal is to educate others about sexuality from womb to tomb. Through her practice, The Institute for Sexuality & Intimacy, LLC, Dr. Lexx has: developed a curriculum that creates interventions to interrupt racism in sexuality created a therapeutic framework to decrease sexual shame, provides professional training, and has resources for Sex Positive Parenting. Dr. Lexx breaks down the most complicated and taboo topics to create easily digestible information and actionable change. Learn More From Dr. Lexx:https://lexxsexdoc.com/ Follow Dr. Lexx at:@lexxsexdoc across all platforms no youtube or X Dr. Lexx's Gifts to you:Free Resources Gifted by Dr. Lexx → https://lexxsexdoc.com/shop Learn More From Whitni:https://www.bde-moves.com Follow Whitni at:IG - @bde.movesFB - groups/bdemovesYouTube - Podcast Channel = @BDE-Moves Old Channel = @BdeTalksTikTok - @bdemoves

Ever felt like you're the problem in your family—even when you're the one being hurt?This week, Ágatha Peters joins Dr. Kerry to explore how cultural expectations and family loyalty create the perfect conditions for narcissistic abuse to thrive undetected. We discuss why narcissism often goes unnamed in non-Western cultures, how the scapegoat role becomes nearly impossible to escape when the entire community reinforces it, and why leaving isn't just about one relationship—it's about losing your entire world. PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE SEGMENT Find the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here.MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST EXTRA INTERVIEW 

You dodged a bullet!" No—the bullet hit me. I just survived.This week's Fan Mail question comes from a YouTube listener who writes: "People tell me I dodged a bullet. But the bullet hit me—I just survived. I feel like it turned me into a monster. The PTSD caused me to start reacting more strongly to smaller triggers and even did abusive things myself in what I felt was self-defense."In this episode, Dr. Kerry addresses why "you dodged a bullet" feels so wrong, what survivor's guilt really is, why up to 75% of narcissistic abuse survivors develop PTSD, and how to make peace with the protective parts of yourself that helped you survive—without exiling them. Submit Your Question If you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here: 

Can a psychopath be a good person? And how do we spot dangerous people when they seem so charming? This holiday special brings you an in-depth answer to one of your most-asked questions with highlights from Dr. Kerry's interview with Tara Blair Ball about the Dark Triad Personality.  We explore why dangerous people don't look scary, how we underestimate predatory behavior through "positive projection," and the critical difference between niceness and kindness—especially important to remember during the holiday season. PODCAST EXTRA This week, there is no exclusive Podcast Extra interview. Instead, we're offering this special holiday edition to ALL Substack subscribers as our gift to you!  This is the perfect time to join our community. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT All Substack paid subscribers now receive immediate access to the Toxic-Free Relationship Club, which includes: -Invitation to the monthly Q&A with Dr. Kerry -Quarterly club-wide events featuring narcissistic abuse experts -Weekly newsletter with exclusive insights Find the Substack newsletter and join the community here: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse 

This week's Fan Mail question comes from a Spotify listener: “Can you please do an episode on scapegoat children?”Why do some people get scapegoated, especially in families? Dr. Kerry explains the role of the scapegoat and how families use this person to address systemic stress and dysfunctional. Submit Your Question If you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here:

In this episode of 'Own Your Pleasure', Whitni Miller and Dr. Lex Brown James discuss the importance of self-care, navigating the current political climate, and how societal issues impact personal relationships. They explore the significance of intimacy, values, and community in fostering healthy connections, while also emphasizing the need to protect joy and vitality amidst challenging times. The discussion highlights the complexities of relationships in the context of differing political beliefs and the importance of understanding and supporting one another. Dr. Lexx Brown-James, LMFT, CSE, CSES is a premiere sexologist centering pleasure as a connective tool for shame free sexuality education and building intimate partner connection. As an AASECT certified sexuality educator and supervisor, Dr. Lexx lectures, trains, and does therapy for academic, professional and general audiences. As a multiple time best seller, Dr. Lexx is an international sexologist. Featured in prominent media like CNN, Essence, It Gets Better, Scary Mommy, and Therapy for Black Girls, Dr. Lexx's goal is to educate others about sexuality from womb to tomb. Through her practice, The Institute for Sexuality & Intimacy, LLC, Dr. Lexx has: developed a curriculum that creates interventions to interrupt racism in sexuality created a therapeutic framework to decrease sexual shame, provides professional training, and has resources for Sex Positive Parenting. Dr. Lexx breaks down the most complicated and taboo topics to create easily digestible information and actionable change. Learn More From Dr. Lexx:https://lexxsexdoc.com/ Follow Dr. Lexx at:@lexxsexdoc across all platforms no youtube or X Dr. Lexx's Gifts to you:Free Resources Gifted by Dr. Lexx → https://lexxsexdoc.com/shop Learn More From Whitni:https://www.bde-moves.com Follow Whitni at:IG - @bde.movesFB - groups/bdemovesYouTube - Podcast Channel = @BDE-Moves Old Channel = @BdeTalksTikTok - @bdemoves

Ever wonder why you didn't see the danger coming?This week, Dr. Leslie Dobson joins Dr. Kerry to unpack the psychological mechanisms that drive narcissistic and antisocial behavior—where they overlap, where they differ, and how they show up in relationships. We explore how predators groom their victims, why the legal system struggles to address coercive control, and the subtle tests that reveal danger long before violence occurs. PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE SEGMENTFind the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST EXTRA INTERVIEW

Dr. Les Carter has spent decades studying narcissists, and in this retrospective, he reveals what most people miss until it's too late.Narcissists seem so perfect at first—charming, attentive, interested in everything about you. But something felt off, didn't it? We revisit five groundbreaking conversations about what's really happening behind the mask: why they can't feel regret, how they gather information like they're building a case file on you, and the warning signs that someone is presenting 'as if' they're safe when they're anything but.Get a glimpse into the weekly Substack newsletter with this week's complimentary copy. Sign up today using this link: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse Dr. Carter may have produced his last video, but his wisdom continues on his YouTube channel, Surviving Narcissism: https://www.youtube.com/@SurvivingNarcissismThank you, Dr. Les Carter, for all your wonderful work. You have made the world a more lovely, enlightened place.DR. LES CARTER is a retired clinical psychotherapist, best-selling author, and expert on narcissistic abuse who hosts the popular YouTube channel "Surviving Narcissism". With over 40 years of experience in private practice, he is a specialist in anger management and narcissistic personality disorder, helping people understand and heal from narcissistic abuse. Stay in Touch With Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the BreSubmit 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.

“Is the Dark Triad a real disorder—or just a dangerous type?”This week's Fan Mail question comes from a listener in Germany who writes after a recent video:“You called ‘dark triad' a personality disorder, but it isn't in the DSM-5. Isn't it a subclinical descriptor?”In this episode, Dr. Kerry clarifies what is the Dark Triad and why we need to get better at spotting this type of personality. Submit Your QuestionIf you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here: 

Ever feel like you're slowly running out of air in a “nice” relationship?This week, Eleni Sagredos joins Dr. Kerry to unpack how coercive control hides behind charm and “preferences,” and why it's so hard to spot until your autonomy has been chipped away. We trace the subtle dynamics that slowly worsen an abusive power imbalance. PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE SEGMENTFind the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here.MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST EXTRA INTERVIEW 

“My son's in a toxic marriage—how do we help without making it worse?”This week's Fan Mail question comes from a listener in Raleigh, North Carolina:“My adult son is in a toxic marriage with a likely narcissist. He's miserable, says he wants out, but stays—partly because of their three young kids. How can we support him when he shares the emotional abuse without pushing or making things worse?”In this episode, Dr. Kerry explains how best to support a loved one who's being abused—especially when it's your son. Learn what helps and what will make things worse.Submit Your QuestionIf you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here:

Parenting in the digital age can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. For this episode, Emily brings in the insight of Ash Brandin for a thoughtful conversation about her book, Power On, and what healthy screen use can actually look like for families. With over 15 years of hands-on experience teaching in the classroom, Ash shares a perspective that moves away from fear and guilt, encouraging parents to think about screens with the same balance and neutrality we often bring to food or other everyday choices.By the end, you'll hopefully have a more compassionate lens for thinking about tech and some practical, flexible ideas for creating a calm, balanced approach to screen time that truly fits with your own family's life.Listen and Learn: How viewing kids' screen time with moral neutrality can help parents move past guilt and fear to understand the real purposes screens serve and the deeper systemic issues driving our reliance on themWhy the old “two-hour screen limit” is outdated and oversimplified, and how a personalized family media plan can lead to healthier, more sustainable screen useReframing of screen time and how systemic factors make it unfair to place all the blame or responsibility on individual parents, and why true change requires collective, not individual, solutionsHow self-determination theory explains kids' relationships with screens, not as addiction but as a way to meet core needs for autonomy, competence, and connection, and how parents can stay neutral, understand what needs are being met, and help kids find healthy, varied ways to fulfill themWhy not everything that releases dopamine is addictive, how our relationship to an activity matters more than the activity itself, and why screens aren't “evil dopamine machines”Resources: Power on: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9780306836992Ash's Website https://www.thegamereducator.com/Connect with Ashon Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/thegamereducatorhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-brandin025For More on Ash's Work, Subscribe to their Substack https://thegamereducator.substack.com/ About Ash BrandinAsh Brandin, EdS, known online as TheGamerEducator, empowers families to make screen time sustainable, manageable, and beneficial for the whole family. Now in their 15th year of teaching middle school, they help caregivers navigate the world of tech with consistent, loving boundaries, founded on respect for children, appreciation of video games and tech, and knowledge of pedagogical techniques. Ash has appeared on podcasts including Re:Thinking with Adam Grant, Good Inside with Dr. Becky, Care and Feeding from Slate, Brave Writer Podcast with Julie Bogart, Learning Curve with Mr. Chazz, Burnt Toast with Virginia Sole-Smith, Your Parenting Mojo with Jen Lumanlan, and Kid Talk with Katie Plunkett, and has contributed to articles featured on Romper, Scary Mommy, Lifehacker, The Daily Beast, USA Today, and NPR. Their bestselling book, "Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family" debuted in August, 2025. In their free time, Ash loves to hike, bake, play video games, and spend time with their family. Related Episodes382. The Anxious Generation? The Conversation We Should Be Having About Kids, Technology, and Mental Health369. The Good News About Adolescence with Ellen Galinsky319. Autonomy-Supportive Parenting with Emily Edlynn317. Growing Up in Public with Devorah Heitner256. Social Justice Parenting with Traci BaxleySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever feel like you can't find “you” anymore? That you're second-guessing everything, going numb, or swallowing your words just to keep the peace?This week, psychologist Dr. Shahrzad Jalali joins Dr. Kerry to unpack how long-term emotional abuse scrambles your nervous system, erodes self-trust, and leads to identity confusion—and what actually helps you get “you” back. We trace the early red flags, why we repeat familiar patterns, and the body-level toll (sleep, gut, jaw, hypervigilance) that keeps you on edge. PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE SEGMENTFind the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here.MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST EXTRA INTERVIEW 

In this Parenting Is a Joke snack episode, Ophira Eisenberg chats again with Kate Auletta, Editor-in-Chief of Scary Mommy and Romper, about her years as a journalist and the surprising turns that led her from travel writing to parenting media. Kate recalls running HuffPost's “How to Raise a Kid” conference in 2017—pulling together experts to talk about money, race, sex, and digital literacy right as the Trump era began—and how it felt like a bright moment of optimism and connection before online discourse hardened. She and Ophira laugh about trolls who argue over sunscreen recipes and how parenting pieces, no matter how harmless, seem to ignite fury. Kate shares that her most viral post, written during the early pandemic, was simply a plea for parents to “give yourself grace,” while health content still draws the fiercest backlash. The conversation shifts to travel—her love for St. Barts (despite how un–kid-friendly it proved), the Costa Rican jungle cot that scarred her for life, and a vomit-filled night at a roadside hotel near the Basketball Hall of Fame. She swears by headphone adapters as her most vital travel gear, while her husband lugs an entire backpack of snacks. The episode ends, fittingly, with her dog Franklin barking in the background, signaling that even editors-in-chief can't escape the soundscape of parenting.

“My abuser claims he's ‘trauma bonded' to me…Can that be true?This week's Fan Mail question comes from a listener on YouTube who wants to know how common it is for an abusive partner to be trauma bonded. Hers claims to be. She's wonders if this true or if her partner is attempting to dodge responsibility. Submit Your QuestionIf you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here: 

In this episode of Parenting is a Joke, Ophira talks with Kate Auletta, Editor-in-Chief of Scary Mommy and Romper, about raising two sons in the suburbs after growing up as a “true East Side” New Yorker. Kate shares how her mornings start with Picture Day chaos, a barking dog, and kids who quiz her about world politics before breakfast. She describes her nine-year-old as a relentless question machine and her older son as a newly minted golf enthusiast—“a full-on suburb kid.” The conversation covers everything from navigating kids' sports and body image to Kate's viral essay about keeping a “naked house,” which she defends as a way to model body confidence and normalcy. She also recalls how explaining the meaning of “69” abruptly ended her sons' giggle fits and how she recently schooled her tween on SEO after he assumed Google's top search result meant “best.” The two moms bond over C-section scars, endless school breaks, and the unspoken exhaustion of early mornings. The episode ends on Kate's wry admission that she's still clinging to the pool on Labor Day, refusing to surrender summer to Maysember.

“Can narcissists or psychopaths ever live moral lives?”This week's Fan Mail question comes from a listener who asks: “Do you think there are some narcissists or psychopaths who genuinely try to live moral lives—perhaps guided by religion or conscience—or are they all just pretending?”Her question was prompted by years of watching her ex, a man she believes to be a malignant narcissist, play the part of a “righteous” and religious man in public while being manipulative and cruel in private.In this episode, Dr. Kerry explores the complex intersection between moral development, conscience, and personality disorders.Submit Your Question If you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here:

Ever wonder why you keep attracting the same kind of person—the ones who feel magnetic at first but end up draining you emotionally?This week, therapist and author Jessica Baum, creator of Anxiously Attached and SAFE: An Attachment-Informed Guide to Building Secure Relationships, joins Dr. Kerry to explore the hidden attachment wounds that pull us toward toxic partners. Podcast Extra Exclusive InterviewFind the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here.More About the Podcast Extra Interview

“How can someone seem loving for years—then suddenly turn cruel?”This week's Fan Mail revisits a letter that struck a nerve with listeners. A woman wrote about her daughter-in-law, who had seemed like a wonderful addition to the family for seven years—until she “suddenly turned into a monster.”But after the episode aired, Dr. Kerry received another listener's response who offered the opposite perspective: “I was in a 23-year marriage marked by coercive control and escalating abuse. My in-laws adored me—until I began calling out my husband's behavior. Then they rallied around him and turned on me.”In this episode, Dr. Kerry unpacks six possible explanations for why someone may seem to “suddenly change” in a relationship or family dynamic.Submit Your QuestionIf you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here: 

Ever feel blindsided by someone who seemed charming, helpful, or even caring—only to realize later they were quietly dismantling your peace?This week, conflict expert Bill Eddy, author of The Five Types of People That Ruin Your Life, joins Dr. Kerry to unpack the five high-conflict personality types most likely to cause chaos in relationships, workplaces, and families.Podcast Extra Exclusive InterviewFind the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here. More About the Podcast Extra Interview 

“Why does my ex always blame me when the kids want nothing to do with him?”This week's Fan Mail comes from a listener in Rochester, New York, who writes about the heartbreak of watching her children pull away from their abusive father, only to be blamed for it.Her ex insists she's turned the kids against him, while his family defends him as “such a good man” who's “done so much for us.”In this episode, Dr. Kerry explains how emotionally immature and abusive individuals deflect accountability, making others feel guilty for the natural consequences of their own harmful behavior.Submit Your QuestionIf you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here: 

Ever feel like your relationship was the most intoxicating connection of your life—only to discover shocking lies and betrayal later?This week, intimacy expert Gary Katz reveals how narcissists protect themselves by keeping secrets, building false connections, and manipulating trust—and why survivors are often left questioning their own instincts.Podcast Extra Exclusive InterviewFind the exclusive second segment and weekly newsletter here.More About the Podcast Extra Interview

What do you do when the evidence points to betrayal, but your partner insists you're crazy?This week's Fan Mail comes from a listener in Atlanta, Georgia, who describes the heartbreak of suspecting her husband of nearly 50 years is living a double life. Despite finding suspicious phone activity and even an STD clinic reference, her husband denies everything—blaming and belittling her instead.In this episode, Dr. Kerry unpacks the signs of DARVO (deny, attack, reverse victim and offender), explains why being called “crazy” is psychological abuse, and shares what to do when you feel destabilized by betrayal trauma. She also offers practical next steps—from documenting evidence to protecting digital privacy—to help regain clarity and safety.Submit Your QuestionIf you'd like your question addressed on air, send it here:

Predators are often hiding in plain sight—and even the smartest, most capable people can miss the red flags. In this episode, Dr. Kerry McAvoy talks with Sarma Melngailis, the former restaurateur whose story was told in Netflix's Bad Vegan. Sarma opens up about how she was manipulated, criminalized, and misrepresented—and why her memoir The Girl with the Duck Tattoo finally tells the truth. Together, Kerry and Sarma unpack why predators are so difficult to spot, how they exploit our best traits, and the steps survivors can take to heal after betrayal. Resources Mentioned • Sarma's memoir: The Girl with the Duck Tattoo: The Girl with the Duck Tattoo • Follow Sarma: on Instagram: @sarmamelngailis • Sarma's Substack: Sarma Melngailis on Substack• Dr. Kerry's book: Love You More: The Harrowing True Story of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross Podcast Extra Exclusive Interview Find it here in the exclusive interview and weekly newsletter:

Submit your question to be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!This week's Fan Mail brings us two powerful questions: • From Syracuse, New York: “The family referee took my custody and handed it over to the father who was absent for years. My children have been separated from their siblings, and I'm only allowed one hour a week of visitation. The court won't let me present my evidence, and I feel silenced and helpless. What can I do?” From Wichita, KansasAnd from Kansas City, Missouri, a listener asks: “How do I get access to the Podcast Extras?” In this episode, Dr. Kerry tackles both concerns. First, she validates the heartbreak of a mother caught in post-separation abuse reinforced by the family court system.Then, in response to the Wichita and Kansas City listeners, Dr. Kerry explains how to access the Podcast Extras—exclusive deep-dive interviews with leading experts on narcissistic abuse recovery. Submit Your QuestionIf you would like your question addressed on air, please respond here.Stay in Touch with Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media.Support the show

Mom Curious is a weekly podcast produced by Hoff Studios in New York City, hosted by storyteller, actress, and cultural voice Daniella Rabbani. Each episode dives into candid, thought-provoking conversations about motherhood, womanhood, and the messy, magical spaces in between. With humor, honesty, and curiosity, Daniella sits down with women of all stripes to talk about what it really means to raise children—and ourselves—in today's world.About the HostDaniella Rabbani (@DaniellaRabbani on Instagram) is a Brooklyn-based storyteller, actress, singer, and podcast host. On screen, she's appeared in HBO's Scenes from a Marriage, Amazon's The Better Sister, FX's The Americans, and films like Ocean's 8. On stage, she's headlined concerts worldwide, from Jazz at Lincoln Center to the State Jewish Theater in Warsaw. She is also the voice behind national campaigns for Colgate, Starbucks, and Noom.Through her podcast Mom Curious, Daniella blends her creative spirit and lived experience as a mother of two to spark conversations that are raw, hilarious, and deeply relatable. Her mission: to create a community where mothers (and those curious about motherhood) feel seen, supported, and inspired.Tara Clark is an author, speaker, content creator, podcaster, mental health advocate, and the founder of Modern Mom Probs. After becoming a mom and recognizing a hole in the online space for moms to authentically connect, she launched her Instagram account in 2016. She has since built a valued community, solidifying herself as a humorous, trusted voice in the parenting space. Her work has been featured in prominent publications including Washington Post, Today, Motherly, Parents.com, Scary Mommy, and Yahoo Life.Tara published her first parenting book, “Modern Mom Probs: A Survival Guide for 21st Century Mothers” in April 2021. As an advocate for maternal mental health support, Tara held the honor of being the 2021 Spokesperson of The Blue Dot Project, the national symbol for maternal mental health survivor-ship, support, and solidarity. She is also recognized as a Mental Health Champion by the Mental Health Coalition.In 2022, she launched the Modern Mom Probs podcast where she seeks to find solutions for modern mom problems by interviewing medical experts, therapists, popular content creators and authors, including New York Times best-selling authors Dr. Shefali, Eve Rodsky, Kelly Rowland, and Tiffani Thiessen.An avid mental health advocate, Tara has spoken about content creator burnout at conferences, such as Alt Summit and Mom 2.0 Summit.Tara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Villanova University and an MBA from Metropolitan College of New York in Media Management. She currently lives in New Jersey with her husband and son.Stay Connected• Follow Mom Curious on Instagram: @momcuriousTara Clark on Instagram: @modernmomprobsDaniella Rabbani on Instagram: @daniellarabbani• Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts• Share this episode with a friend who needs it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Submit your question to be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Join Dr. Kerry McAvoy on Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse for real talk about toxic relationships and recovery. Mondays feature expert interviews, Thursdays bring our new Fan Mail Q&A. Get clarity, validation, and tools to heal.Stay in Touch with Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media.Support the show

Submit your question to be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Disclaimer: This interview features perspectives from a male divorce coach navigating toxic dynamics. While some views expressed differ from those of trauma-informed psychology, I found it valuable to explore these tensions in real time. Please listen with care, and note that I challenge certain assumptions as we go. This week, I sit down with Josh Tomeoni, a divorce coach who shares his story of what he describes as abuse within his long-term marriage. Josh opens up about the male experience of toxic relationships, why so many men don't recognize emotional abuse, and how cultural expectations of masculinity shape their response to conflict and vulnerability.Podcast Extra Exclusive InterviewFind it here in the exclusive interview and weekly newsletter: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuseMore About the Podcast Extra InterviewWhat happens when a man says he's been emotionally abused?In this exclusive interview, Josh explores how some men frame abuse differently—and what that reveals about cultural conditioning.Get immediate access to this extended conversation—and hear where I draw the line between “toxic” dynamics and true abuse.

aising kids and teens who struggle with emotional regulation can be tough. Parents must navigate the complexities of societal pressures, and it can lower self-esteem and cause self-doubt. Today we talk about some essential strategies to establish a warm, connected relationship with a challenging child. We try to help find the balance between talking less, and setting clear, aspirational expectations that are crucial for both parents and kids. Our guest is Dayna Abraham, author of the newly released book “Calm the Chaos,” and we'll try to help quell your fear of the emotional rollercoaster that often accompanies raising a challenging child. This is a reprise of a conversation from an earlier episode. Check out the courses in the Neurodiversity University and join us in bringing society closer to a neurodiversity-affirming world. Dayna Abraham, bestselling author and National Board Certified Educator, is the founder of Lemon Lime Adventures, which provides resources to parents of neurodivergent kids, and helps them find peace, and meet their kids where they are. Dayna is a mother of three neurodivergent children, as well as being an ADHD adult herself, and brings an out-of-the-box perspective to parents raising kids in a modern world. Her work has been showcased in HuffPost, Scary Mommy, BuzzFeed, ADDitude Magazine, Parents Magazine and Lifehacker. She lives in Little Rock, Arkansas with her husband Jason, her kids, and two huge Newfoundland puppies. BACKGROUND READING Book, podcast, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you're invited to join our Facebook Group.

Submit your question to be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!What happens when a narcissistic therapist uses their professional training against you?This week's Fan Mail question comes from a listener in Seattle who writes: “I dated a narcissist who was also a licensed clinical social worker. Can you talk about the weaponization of therapeutic training by narcissists?”In this episode, Dr. Kerry unpacks how narcissistic mental health professions can use psychology to pathologize your emotions and silence your voice. How the imbalance of power could be weaponized against you.Submit Your QuestionIf you would like your question addressed on air, please respond here: https://kerrymcavoyphd.fillout.com/fan-mail                                      ****************************************Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media.Support the show

Submit your question to be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Do you know what one of the most dangerous traps you can fall for? Believing that you can “fix” a narcissist's early attachment wounds. In this exclusive episode, therapist and author Chelli Pumphrey explains why narcissists rarely have secure attachments, how anxious or disorganized patterns drive their constant need for supply, and why survivors' empathy often backfires when met with exploitation.PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Find it here for the exclusive interview and weekly newsletter. MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST EXTRA 

Submit your question to be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Can you really heal a trauma bond—or is the damage permanent? This week's Fan Mail features two powerful questions. The first comes from a YouTube listener who asks: “Is it really possible to break a trauma bond? Even Dr. Ramani says she still struggles daily—so what's the point of fighting, especially if kids are involved?” The second comes from a listener in New York, New York who wants to know: “Why do narcissists cheat—and how can you tell if it's happening to you?” In this episode, Dr. Kerry unpacks the reality of healing from trauma bonds, offering both hope and hard truth, and explores the eight most common reasons narcissists cheat—plus the warning signs to watch for in your relationship. Submit Your Question If you would like your question addressed on air, please respond here: https://kerrymcavoyphd.fillout.com/fan-mail ****************************************Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media.Support the show

Submit your question be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Can you ever be “good enough” for a difficult mother? In this episode, psychotherapist Katherine Fabrizio, author of The Good Daughter Syndrome, reveals why empathic daughters feel trapped in cycles of guilt, exhaustion, and approval-seeking—and how to finally reclaim your power and identity. Tronick's Still (Blank) Face ExperimentPODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Find it here: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse for the exclusive interview and weekly newsletter. MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST EXTRA 

Submit your question be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!This week's fan mail dives into two powerful questions about surviving emotional abuse.First, Dr. Kerry explores what it means when you stop crying—and why emotional shutdown can be a survival mechanism in toxic relationships. Then she tackles whether the sunk cost fallacy is really what keeps us stuck with a narcissist, or if something deeper is at play.Submit Your Question!If you would like your question addressed on air, please respond here! ****************************************Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media.Support the show

Get your copy of Nikki's book today on Audible, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through Bookshop.Org, where every purchase supports your local bookstore.Want a sneak peek of Nikki's book? Download a FREE chapter!IT'S AN ALL-NEW EPISODE! In this episode, Nikki features an article written by Cora Gold, a frequent contributor to the Your Ideal Mom Life blog. In Cora's latest post, narrated by Nikki in this episode, Cora shares the importance of having mom friends and how to find them. Cora Gold is a parenting writer and editor of women's lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She writes about self care tips for moms and parenting techniques for publications including Scary Mommy and CafeMom. Connect with Cora on LinkedIn, Pinterest and X.Want to write for Your Ideal Mom Life? Click here to check out our submission guidelines.Support the showFollow Nikki on Instagram and Facebook! Wanna be on the show or sponsor an episode? Email your pitch to nikki@youridealmomlife.com.

Submit your question be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Going through a custody battle or divorce with a narcissist? The you know the legal system can feel stacked against you.This week, former family law judge and attorney Michele Locke reveals exactly how narcissists twist the truth, exploit legal loopholes, and weaponize the court process — and what you can do to outsmart them.Whether you're divorcing a narcissist, navigating parental alienation, or preparing for a high-conflict custody hearing, discover the insider tools to safeguard your case and your peace of mind.Podcast Extra Exclusive InterviewFind it here the exclusive interview and weekly newsletter.More About the Podcast Extra Interview

Submit your question be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!What do you do when you can't just cut off a toxic person?This week's Fan Mail question comes from a YouTube listener who asks: “How do I stop the cognitive dissonance and self-doubt when I can't go no-contact with a toxic person?”In this episode, Dr. Kerry explains why cognitive dissonance is such a powerful trap in emotionally abusive relationships—especially when you're forced to maintain contact.Submit Your QuestionIf you would like your question addressed on air, please respond here!****************************************Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media.Support the show

Submit your question be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Why do so many survivors miss they're being abuse?In this Labor Day Special, I'm revisiting three powerful interviews that follow the journey from denial to freedom.First, we explore how abuse often hides in plain sight, even for smart, capable people. The author I'm referencing as “he” is Don Hennessey and his book, How He Gets into Her Head. Then, we examine how cognitive dissonance keeps you stuck. Finally, we describe what late-stage cognitive dissonance sounds and feels like—when you barely recognize yourself, and know you have to leave.Whether you're still in or out of a toxic relationship, learning to recognize the psychological patterns can help you plan your next step toward freedom.Although there's no Podcast Extra interview, in this week's newsletter we take a deep dive into the underpinnings of cognitive dissonance, including if abusers' intentionally created it to keep you stuck.Have a Fan Mail Question? Submit it here!    ****************************************Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media.Fit, Healthy & Happy Podcast Welcome to the Fit, Healthy and Happy Podcast hosted by Josh and Kyle from Colossus...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Submit your question be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Is my daughter-in-law a malignant narcissist? How did she hide her worst qualities for so long?Today, Dr. Kerry answers 2 listeners' questions. The first is from New York, New York about narcissists' public and private personas. Many narcissistic individuals create a false mask to hide their worst qualities. The second comes from Southern Pines, North Carolina, who wants to know more about love-bombing. SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION! If you would like your question addressed on air, please respond here!      ****************************************Stay in Touch Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media.Support the show

Submit your question be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!What if the person you fell in love with never really existed?In this episode, Dr. Nae — psychologist, author of Run Like Hell, and former wife of the real “Wolf of Wall Street” — exposes how master manipulators use love-bombing, mirroring, and coercive control to create a false sense of intimacy.Learn: How abusers build a fake romantic persona to hook their targets Why trauma bonds are so difficult to break, even when you see the truth The role of cognitive dissonance in keeping survivors trapped How society's myths about relationships can deepen the self-betrayal Steps you can take to reclaim your identity and self-trust after abuse Podcast Extra Exclusive InterviewFind it here the exclusive interview and weekly newsletter.More About the Podcast Extra Interview

Submit your question be answered on air to the Fan Mail link below!Welcome to our new podcast segment called Fan Mail! This is where Dr. Kerry answers your questions. To kick off our weekly bonus episode, Dr. Kerry is responding to a listener who writes, “He has destroyed me and my world after 16 years of marriage.” -- from Westminster CaliforniaMore About the EpisodeToday Dr. Kerry answers two fan mail requests: 1. "Please address abuse from a man's perspective." -Cleveland, Ohio2. "I can't heal...He's successfully destroyed my world. -Westminster, CaliforniaSubmit Your QuestionIf you would like your question addressed on air, please respond here: https://kerrymcavoyphd.fillout.com/fan-mailStay in Touch Dr. Kerry!YoutubeInstagramTikTokFacebookMore About Dr. KerryKerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D, a retired psychologist and author, is an expert on cultivating healthy relationships and deconstructing narcissism. Her blogs have been featured in Mamami, YourTango, Scary Mommy, and The Good Men Project. In Love You More, Dr. McAvoy gives an uncensored glimpse into her survival of narcissistic abuse, and her workbook, First Steps to Leaving a Narcissist, helps victims break free from the confusion common in abusive relationships. She hosts the Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse podcast and offers trauma-related advice on social media.Support the show

Are the words you're speaking building connection or creating distance with your teen?Could everyday phrases be unintentionally fueling your child's anxiety or shame? In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode, Colleen O'Grady talks with Amy Hughes—mother of nine, writer, parenting coach, and author of the upcoming book Words Like Honey. Together, they explore the profound impact of the words we speak to our children, especially during the teen and young adult years. Amy shares how common phrases like “hurry up” or “don't be sad” can trigger stress responses in kids and how language rooted in fear or control can erode connection. Drawing from her own imperfect journey and deep experience as a mother, Amy introduces the “4 Rs” framework—Rethink, Replace, Reframe, and Repair—offering parents a path to more intentional and healing communication. The episode is a compassionate reminder that it's never too late to choose grace-filled words that build trust and nurture faith. Amy Hughes is a writer, speaker, and parenting coach based on California's Central Coast. A mother of nine children ranging from toddler to 30 years old, Amy's warmth, humor, and real-life parenting wisdom have made her a sought-after conference speaker. She's a featured contributor to Wild + Free and has been published in Scary Mommy, Encourage, Christian Unschooling, and more. Her upcoming book, Words Like Honey: How to Avoid Unintentional Harm, Model Kindness, and Nurture Your Child's Faith Through What You Say, is available wherever books are sold. Find her at simplelittleamy.com or on Instagram @simplelittleamy. Three Key Takeaways: Our words shape our children's inner world. Phrases we say often—like “be careful” or “what's wrong with you?”—can unintentionally trigger anxiety, shame, or self-doubt. Awareness is the first step to change. Repair is always possible. Even if we've said the wrong thing in the past, taking ownership and apologizing can restore connection and model humility and growth. Life-giving language builds trust. Instead of threats, comparisons, or venting, Amy encourages us to use specific encouragement, curiosity, and kindness to create lasting bonds with our teens and young adults. Follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/simplelittleamy/?hl=en Learn More at https://simplelittleamy.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EP522. In this episode, I speak with my husband, a board-certified urologist, to unpack the growing trend of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) being promoted to young men. We discuss what TRT is, when it's medically appropriate, and the potential risks of using it without a clinical need. This discussion came about after I came across a Scary Mommy post about the concerns parents are having because big podcasters like Dax Shepherd & Joe Rogan are open about their TRT. We also discuss what parents should be aware of when it comes to their teens and young adult children. Whether your son has mentioned “low T” or you're simply curious about the impact of this trend, this episode offers expert insight and practical advice to help you stay informed and proactive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EP522. In this episode, I speak with my husband, a board-certified urologist, to unpack the growing trend of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) being promoted to young men. We discuss what TRT is, when it's medically appropriate, and the potential risks of using it without a clinical need. This discussion came about after I came across a Scary Mommy post about the concerns parents are having because big podcasters like Dax Shepherd & Joe Rogan are open about their TRT. We also discuss what parents should be aware of when it comes to their teens and young adult children. Whether your son has mentioned “low T” or you're simply curious about the impact of this trend, this episode offers expert insight and practical advice to help you stay informed and proactive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Would you like your teens to have better manners and show respect to you, your home, and others? My guest today literally wrote the book. Brooke Romney is a writer, speaker and leader of an online community who helps moms of teens and tweens create meaningful, healthy and enjoyable relationships with their children through practical application, education and community. Her goal is for every family to feel confident and connected. The mother of four boys ages tween to adult, Brooke knows parenting perfection isn't real and takes an honest and hopeful approach with her audience. Her best-selling book 52 Modern Manners for Today's Teens (Volumes 1 & 2) provides weekly tips to help parents and teens navigate the complexities of today's world. The follow-up, 52 Modern Manners for Kids, will feature tips for kids and tweens aged four to 12 and is set to release this August. Brooke's work has been featured in The Washington Post, Scary Mommy and Forbes. Brooke and her family live in Utah. Here are some examples of her modern manners for teens Be inclusive You attract what you put out into the world Say thank you Be reliable Reply Work with integrity Look up smile and say hello Don't be annoying In this episode she shares her secrets to getting teens to actually listen (and not blow you off) and follow through with these manners. Follow Brooke on Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/brookeromneywrites/⁠ and ⁠https://brookeromney.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the summer of 1966, three young women head to the beaches of Lake Michigan and are never seen again, setting off a mystery that remains unsolved to this day.If you have any information about the disappearances of Patricia Blough, Ann Miller, and Renee Bruhl, please contact the Indiana State Police tip line at 317-232-8248, or the Westchester Police Department at 708-345-0060.To read about the “maternity homes” we discuss in this episode, please refer to this Scary Mommy article. And if you also believe women's healthcare should be about WOMEN, head over to www.congress.gov/contact-us to find your representative's contact information and let them know YOUR concerns about H.Res.7.  Source materials for this episode cannot be listed here due to character limitations. For a full list of sources, please visit: crimejunkiepodcast.com/infamous-indiana-dunes-disappearances/Did you know you can listen to this episode ad-free? Join the Fan Club! Visit crimejunkie.app/library/ to view the current membership options and policies.The Crime Junkie Merch Store is NOW OPEN! Shop the exclusive Life Rule #10 Tour collection before it's gone for good! Don't miss your chance - visit the store now! Don't miss out on all things Crime Junkie!Instagram: @crimejunkiepodcast | @audiochuckTwitter: @CrimeJunkiePod | @audiochuckTikTok: @crimejunkiepodcastFacebook: /CrimeJunkiePodcast | /audiochuckllcCrime Junkie is hosted by Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat. Instagram: @ashleyflowers | @britprawatTwitter: @Ash_Flowers | @britprawatTikTok: @ashleyflowerscrimejunkieFacebook: /AshleyFlowers.AF Text Ashley at 317-733-7485 to talk all things true crime, get behind the scenes updates, and more!