Podcasts about toxic relationships

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Why do you stay with someone who treats you terribly, while simultaneously believing they are your soulmate? In this video, Lee Hammock breaks down the exhausting psychological reality of cognitive dissonance in toxic relationships.Cognitive dissonance occurs when your brain is forced to hold two completely conflicting beliefs at the exact same time: "they love me" versus "they hurt me."We expose how an abuser or controlling person intentionally manufactures this mental fog through a calculated push-pull dynamic of intense love bombing followed by sudden cruelty. This isn't an accident—it's a design. We walk through the mechanics of the intermittent reinforcement cycle, the strongest form of behavioral conditioning known to psychology and explain the neurological basis of why you can't just walk away. Unpredictable dopamine hits from the rare "good moments" keep your brain chemically hooked, forcing you to hold onto a fantasy version of the abuser rather than the reality of who they are.Doubting your own memory and constantly questioning your reality.Justifying their toxic behavior to your friends, family, and yourself.Constant apologizing for things you didn't even do just to keep the peace.Total paralysis in decision-making because you no longer trust your own judgment.This intense mental friction traps you in a loop that literally makes you feel like you are going crazy. If you are ready to pull back the curtain on this emotional manipulation, stop the self-doubt, and reclaim your mental health, this deep dive is for you. Remember: naming it is your first step toward breaking it.Common Signs You Are Experiencing Cognitive Dissonance:Book a Coaching Session: [⁠⁠⁠⁠https://link.me/mentalhealness⁠⁠⁠⁠]

This is absolutely heartbreaking!

Cutting The Cords sleep hypnosis. Cut the energetic cords of attachment from an unhealthy or toxic relationship so that they no longer affect you emotionally. Heal from this relationship, whether it be a partner, family member or friend. Sleep so deeply while your subconscious mind does the work. Your subconscious mind is always listening even during sleep.Download Sleep Time: Sleep Meditations App:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://onelink.to/sleeptime⁠⁠⁠⁠Designed for deep sleep and to fall asleep fast.Full access to my entire library of sleep meditations, subliminals, sleep stories, sleep music, and more.Subconscious work, manifesting, energy work, personal growth, emotional healing, extrasensory, and more.New releases arrive there first.Always ad-free.Extended versions up to many hours.Playlists, challenges, downloads, sleep journal, community, progress and more.My real human voice guaranteed.A familiar, trusted voice your nervous system recognises.Your support helps me create more for you.Important notePlease do not play this audio while driving or doing anything else. This audio and its contents are for entertainment purposes only.If you suffer from any kind of mental health condition, please seek advice from your health care professional as to the suitability of 'subliminal affirmations' for you. Keep your audio volume at a comfortable level; otherwise, as with any loud sound, sleep could be disrupted. Thank you.© 2026 Nicky Sutton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we talk about the importance of protecting your peace and guarding your mental space from constant negativity. Many of us have relationships that exist simply because time has passed, but we rarely stop to ask whether those relationships actually add value to our lives. Some people seem to thrive on sharing bad news, predicting failure, and filling conversations with doom and gloom. Over time, that negativity can quietly drain your energy and influence your mindset.This episode explores why negative news spreads so quickly, how the people around us shape our thinking, and why successful individuals are intentional about who they allow into their inner circle. We also discuss the importance of evaluating friendships and romantic relationships honestly. If someone consistently brings chaos, discouragement, or doubt into your life, it may be time to create healthy distance.Protecting your peace does not mean burning bridges. It simply means recognizing that your mind is valuable real estate and choosing not to let negativity live there rent-free.Check us out -  Instagram and Twitter: JeroldJax Facebook:  Jerold Action Jackson and Zone Of ActionJeroldJackson.comHappiness starts with you. Not with your relationship, not with your job, not with your money, but with you in the Zone of Action.

In Episode of The Divorce Hour, Ilyssa Welcomes Attorney and Founder of Weinman Associates, Daryl Weinman to Discuss Texas AG and US Senate Candidate Ken Paxton's Divorce. Divorcecoach4women Founder Mardi Winder Drops by to Tell us How to Avoid the Self-blame Issue when Leaving a Toxic Relationship. . The Divorce Hour with Ilyssa Panitz is a safe and comfortable place for listeners to put their feet up and escape from the daily grind while we offer you comfort and advice during a challenging and often isolating time in your life. It is hard to turn to friends and family who don't understand what you are going through emotionally, mentally, or economically but we do and there is nothing to feel ashamed about! While the topics and guests will vary every week – the messaging is always the same: we are going to help you get through this dark period and despite how bleak you may think things look. If you cannot see the audio controls,

  Toxic Relationships, High Conflict Divorce, And How To Stay Sane Under Insane Circumstances. Join Me As I Talk To Authors Lisa Johnson And Chris Barry From "Been There Got Out" About Their New 2nd Book: 'When Your Ex Turns The Kids Against You!    Welcome to Life With Peter G, the show where we explore the many facets of life through the lens of host Peter G's unique perspective. From business to relationships, personal growth to pop culture, Peter G takes us on a journey of discovery and self-reflection with each episode. With a combination of insightful inteiews, engaging discussions, and personal anecdotes, Life With Peter G offers a fresh and authentic take on the human experience. Join us as we delve into the complexities and joys of life, one conversation at a time. This is Life With Peter G, The Peter G Show Every Wednesday Night. 6:00pm Pacific, 8:00pm Central, and 9:00pm Eastern. We're Talking About Things You Need To Hear. Check It Out. Don't forget to listen on the go with The Peter G Show On Audio Podcast Everywhere. And Please Like and Subscribe to The Peter G Show YouTube Channel. Love You Guys, Peace Out. @drphil @greggutfeld @gutfeld! @envoytv @foxnews @drphilmcgraw @gutfeldfox @podcastone @envoymediagroup @envoymediacompany @beentheregotout #petergshow,#subscribe,#like,#follow,#truth,#share,#america,#love,#drphil,#drphilmcgraw,#gutfeld,#greggutfeld,#gutfeldfox,#fun,#grateful,#god,#entertainment,#new,#currentevents,#podcast,#billgates,#news,#commonsense,#divorce,#beentheregotout

If you've been told that mediation is impossible when you're dealing with a high-conflict ex—or that it's never safe when there's been domestic violence—this conversation with New York family law attorney Ian Steinberg is going to challenge that assumption.Ian is a matrimonial attorney with Burkman Botker Newman & Shane, a 25-attorney firm based in Manhattan with offices in Westchester and Long Island. He joins Lisa Johnson of Been There Got Out for his second appearance on the show, and this time the focus is entirely on mediation—what it is, what it isn't, and how to navigate it when your ex has a history of coercive control, manipulation, or abuse.The family court system is broken. Ian doesn't sugarcoat that. The system wasn't designed to handle what targeted parents deal with every day, and being forced into litigation often just gives an abusive ex another arena to exert power.That's why understanding your alternatives—including the different forms of mediation—matters so much.In this episode, Ian breaks down a distinction that most people don't know exists: Capital M Mediation versus lowercase m mediation.Capital M is the classic format—just you, your ex, and a neutral third party working toward agreement. Lowercase m covers a broader range of attorney-assisted, structured alternatives that can be more appropriate when power imbalances are a serious concern.He also introduces something Lisa and Chris have seen work with their own clients: the use of retired family court judges as mediators.These aren't people with formal mediation authority—but they bring decades of experience sitting on the bench, and sometimes that gravitas is exactly what it takes to get a controlling ex to actually listen and move.If you are a domestic violence survivor wondering whether mediation is even an option for you, Ian's answer is: sometimes yes, if the right guardrails are in place. He's clear about when it shouldn't happen—when the power dynamic is so extreme that you simply can't withstand it, or when the conflict is too fresh to be productive. But he also explains the tools that can make it safer, including virtual Zoom-based shuttle negotiation, where the parties never have to share a screen or a room.Before you walk into any mediation session, Ian says three things matter most: talk to your attorney beforehand, work with your coach to manage your emotions and know your triggers, and make a clear list of your asks. And remember—nothing is final until you put pen to paper. You are allowed to say, “This sounds interesting. Let me think about it and speak to my attorney.” That is not weakness. That is informed consent.The cost savings of resolving even some issues through mediation can be staggering. Every issue you settle is one that doesn't have to be litigated. Going from ten contested issues to two is real progress—and it also signals to the court that you've made a genuine effort to cooperate, which matters.Whether mediation is right for you depends on your specific situation. That's why working with coaches who understand high-conflict dynamics—and who can help you prepare strategically—is so valuable. Lisa and Chris offer a free 30-minute discovery call where they can help you assess your situation and figure out the right next steps.➡️ Book your free call: https://beentheregotout.com/➡️ Follow us on Instagram: @been_there_got_outConnect with Ian Steinberg: https://www.berkbot.com/attorneys/ian-steinberg/

If you have ever felt like you were walking on eggshells, apologizing for things that made no sense, or grieving a version of someone who seemed to disappear, this episode is for you. I am revisiting one of the most listened-to episodes BPD in romantic relationships with two more years of client work, research, and personal processing behind me.I break down what borderline personality disorder actually is, how it differs from Narcissism even when the lived experience feels nearly identical, and why the idealization-devaluation cycle is so disorienting to survive. I also cover the role of splitting, unstable self-image, and emotional dysregulation in driving the patterns you could never quite make sense of — and why no amount of reassurance was ever going to be enough.Lead to GoldThe podcast devoted to discussing realistic growth and wellness.

Toxic relationships often operate through a shame cycle. One moment you are made to feel rejected, unworthy, or not good enough, and the next moment you are given relief and approval. This emotional pattern keeps many people trapped in unhealthy relationships without realizing it. In this video, we explore how shame and validation can become tools of manipulation and why recognizing the cycle is the first step toward healing. If you struggle with toxic relationships, emotional abuse, or low self esteem, understanding the shame cycle can help you break free and build healthier relationships based on respect, trust, and genuine connection. Learn more about my coaching and digital courses here: socialattraction.co.uk/gary-gunn/ Join my newsletter: socialattraction.co.uk/daily-newsletter/ Subscribe to my YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/c/GaryGunn?sub_confirmation=1 This video is for entertainment purposes only. Any action you take upon the information provided is strictly at your own risk, and we will not be responsible for any losses or damages in connection with the use of this video. The selection of techniques, opinions, programs, products, services, tools, templates, or manuals is not a guarantee of income or success. You are fully responsible for the effort you put in and the results you achieve by following the information in this video. All content, materials, and techniques delivered are proprietary and cannot be used, disclosed, or duplicated without permission. This video is for informational purposes only and does not form a professional relationship. Visit our website if you wish to hire us on a professional basis. #datingadviceformen #datingtipsformen #datingcoachformen This video is owned by Social Attraction Limited and is protected by copyright. Unauthorised use—including reposting, stitching, duetting, reacting, or using this content for commentary or derivative work on any platform—is strictly prohibited. We reserve all rights and will take action against infringement.

You finally have something good — and it's terrifying you.Maybe things have been calm, loving, even beautiful lately and instead of enjoying it, you're on edge. Scanning for signs. Picking fights. Pulling away. Waiting for it all to fall apart.If you've ever felt more anxious during the good times than the hard ones, this episode is for you.This week we're diving deep into one of the most misunderstood relationship patterns — the anxiety that shows up not when things are going wrong, but when things are going right. We're unpacking where this comes from, what it actually looks like in your day-to-day relationship and why left unchecked, it can quietly destroy the very thing you're desperate to hold onto.Because here's the truth nobody tells you — learning to let love feel safe is some of the hardest and most important work you'll ever do.In this episode we cover:Why your past has trained your nervous system to distrust happinessThe sneaky ways this anxiety shows up without you even realisingHow it impacts your partner and the connection between youPractical ways to start interrupting the pattern and choosing presence over fearThis one might hit close to home. That means it's exactly what you need to hear.- - - - -Follow me & connect!instagram.com/jaydedelpupcoachingJoin the Gal's in the Facebook grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/634737754099311

This episode includes narrations of true creepy encounters submitted by normal folks just like yourself. Today you'll experience horrifying stories about Toxic Relationships & Dark Family Secrets.HAVE A STORY TO SUBMIT?LetsReadSubmissions@gmail.comFOLLOW ME ON -►YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/letsreadofficial► Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/letsread.official/♫ Music & Cover art: INEKThttps://www.youtube.com/@inektToday's episode is sponsored by:- Betterhelp

Are you seeing things in your marriage or a relationship that feel a little intense or puzzling…and you’re not sure if they're normal or actually signs of a toxic relationship? If so, it's important to pause and look at the pieces of the puzzle together to see what they might be telling you. To discover if you're in a toxic relationship take our free emotional abuse test. Here are five things that might seem “normal,” but aren’t: SIGNS OF A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP THAT ARE EASY TO MISS 1. HE WANTS TO MOVE THE RELATIONSHIP FORWARD QUICKLY When you’re in a relationship with someone who seemingly shares and cares about your values and interests, it’s easy to be swept up by the intensity of it all. Especially if the relationship seems to happen at the “right” time, and things move forward quickly. But this level of intensity and pace doesn’t give you time to slow down and really think about why you seem so compatible. 2. HE WANTS CONSTANT ACCESS TO YOU, BUT HE’S CLOSED OFF It might seem caring for your partner or husband to want to know where you are all of the time. But is it reciprocal or does it feel one-sided, like he needs constant visibility into your life, while parts of his remain just out of reach? Many women in these situations describe a quiet, hard-to-explain feeling that something isn't adding up. Like he's keeping close tabs on them… while also keeping options, information, or even other relationships carefully hidden. 3. HIS MOODS SHIFT SUDDENLY AND YOU DON’T KNOW WHY Think about it…in healthy relationships, partners are usually aware of the reasons why one partner isn’t in a good mood. They typically communicate about bad days at work or when they’re not feeling well. But in toxic relationships, that level of trust and communication often isn’t there, because one partner doesn’t want it to be. Everything's fine, until it's not, and then, it suddenly is again…And you're left trying to figure out what changed. 4. HE‘S UPSET OVER SMALL THINGS Things that don't seem like a big deal, suddenly are signs of a toxic relationship. For example, you miss a turn on the way to his best friend’s birthday party… and suddenly it's not about directions anymore. He's accusing you of being disrespectful, or doing it on purpose because you don’t want to go. Or you might simply ask him to help with the groceries, and suddenly he’s angry because, “you don’t respect his time and all the things he has to do.” 5. HE’S A DIFFERENT PERSON WHEN OTHERS ARE WATCHING Things feel tense, confusing, or even cold behind closed doors…but in public, he seems calm, kind, hardworking, and completely put together. For example, during counseling or around friends, he might appear thoughtful, patient, and willing to work on the relationship. He says the right things. He looks sincere. Other people may even be impressed by how hard he's trying. But when you're alone again, it's different. The warmth disappears. The tension returns. And you're left trying to reconcile the version of him everyone else sees…with the version you live with every day. If you relate and you need support, we’re always online to help you. Go to btr.org/group/ to see my daily support group schedule. TRANSCRIPT: EARLY SIGNS OF A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR HUSBAND Anne:  I did an interview with a member of our community. We’re going to call her Iris, She talked about how his toxic patterns showed up in her marriage and what happened when she started using the strategies she learned in my workshop. Here’s that interview. Welcome, Iris.  Iris: Thank you. Glad to be here. Anne: Let’s start at the beginning of your story. Can you talk about how you felt when you first met your husband? Iris: He was very charming, and he seemed extremely sincere. Now I understand that he was love bombing me and was trying to make things go fast. It was very intense. And he preyed upon me at a time when I was really ready to get married and have kids. Everybody was getting married and having kids. So he went right for what was the most vulnerable part of me. And we met through a young adult single thing in our group. He proceeded to be very attentive. Anne: When you say young adult, single thing, that sounds a little bit like my faith. What’s your faith background? Iris: it’s the Catholic church. It’s actually Theology on Tap, which is at a brew pub, and you can buy a drink and mingle. And then they have a speaker. Anne: Kind of Matt Fraddish. Iris: Yes. Anne: I actually know Matt Fradd in real life. Iris: And I don’t go to the Catholic church anymore. But that was a huge part of our marriage and, we were really in a circle of pretty devout people. Which also I think contributed to my willingness to submit to him. Anne: When you say submit, can you talk about that a little bit more? EARLY CONTROL DISGUISED AS CARE AND SHARED VALUES Iris: Hindsight, there were red flags before we married. There were early signs of coercive control. It dates me, but cell phones weren’t the norm yet. And he bought me a cell phone so he could reach me more easily. He was pretty volatile. He asked me to marry him within a month or two and I deferred and we dated longer, but he was just intense. Then he would be very sorry. He would cold shoulder me at points. He’d be angry for things that were weird, wasn’t very flexible. Now I know these were signs of a toxic relationship. We went through nine months of marriage prep. So many Christian circles focus on the idea that the man is the head. I saw that in my parents' marriage too. My dad made all the decisions. My mom was independent in some ways, but she still did what he wanted. I think I expected marriage to look like that. The husband leads and the wife follows. Even though I was independent, had a master's degree, was over 30, and had traveled, I still lived in a huge Christian community where that model of marriage was everywhere. NOT RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP Anne: And you just mentioned nobody actually says that, but they actually do say that, it might not be in so many words. It might not be so directly, but they like actually say it. And if you call ’em out and say, “Hey, you said this.” They usually deny it. “Of course, I didn’t say that.” And you’re like, “What? You did.” That’s the part that’s really confusing. The therapists come in or the clergy comes in, or the friends and family, and they gaslight you too. It’s like, “You’re putting words in my mouth. I didn’t say that.” Especially when they find out what he is really like, and you’re like, “What?” “You told me this.” “Well, I never did.” And they for sure did. It’s almost like no matter what you do, you can’t win. There are friends of mine and maybe friends of yours too, who are amazing and they’re like, “Oh my word, I said the wrong thing.” That is so validating. I feel like when I meet people like that, it’s easy to be like, “It’s okay did the ‘wrong thing’ too. I was doing the best I could and I didn’t know that he was abusive. And I didn’t know what was happening, and didn’t recognize signs of a toxic relationship. So I can’t blame you either.” But, for the other people who continue to not believe us and deny that they said or did certain things. ‘That’s harder. Cause it becomes this almost group of unhealthy people that you’re dealing with, rather than just the one unhealthy person. Iris: Right. Signs of a Toxic Relationship: The Sudden Switch After Marriage Anne: Did you end up going to couple therapy? Iris: In the Catholic Church you do Pre-Cana, which is pre-marriage counseling, and they saw some things that were concerning. He was very intent that he could change things. They would categorize it like how we were different. I think she said to me, “Life might always be kind of hard for him.” ‘Cause that’s what she was seeing.. He works very hard, so he seems very sincere. And he met with the man in the couple we met with. And read books and was very sincere. They said to us, “Oh, we’ve never seen somebody work so hard to try to improve themselves so that they’re ready for a marriage.” He impressed them, and I remember feeling exhausted by that point. And it was a mask. I now know that these were signs of a toxic relationship. Anne: Like you shouldn’t have to work that hard. to be normal. They are hard workers, because it would be very hard to pretend all the time. Iris: Right, and that’s how he lives. He has a mask all the time. We had this huge Catholic wedding, like an hour and 20 minute long mass. And it was that night the switch flipped. And he was angry. He cold shouldered me. We’d waited till our wedding night, and he said things that were incredibly humiliating. Seeing THE SAME SIGNS OF A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP IN OTHER WOMEN’S STORIES Iris: Then the next morning he would hardly talk to me. And we left the beautiful hotel. We were to go to a morning brunch at my parents, with guests who were from outta town and our families. And he was furious because people had decorated our car. And he had to stop at a car wash to rinse everything off before we even got to the wedding brunch. Anne: I used this story in my book. Iris: You did? Anne: Yes, this story. Someone else had the same story. Iris: Isn’t that amazing? Like how these Chucks do the same thing to us and have all the same signs of a toxic relationship. Anne: ‘ Like Twilight Zone. Cause you never gave me that story. Iris: isn’t that amazing? I feel like that in group a lot. I’m like, “Oh, that happened to me.” Anne: BTR has been like me trying to fit all the pieces together. And as I’ve tried to fit all the pieces together, things became very clear. And I’ve become very good at seeing in the dark. So this piece of the puzzle I was trying to get it to fit. Like why did he do that? I’ve never met you before, but I spent a lot of time piecing just this piece. With the other pieces that I had of other people’s stories to say, what was this about? I’ve spent so much time with this story in my brain and what it meant. I’m like, holy cow. Iris: Thank you. Thank you for somewhere to tell it, because it was something that felt so shameful for such a long time, rejected, and humiliated. RECOGNIZING THE PATTERNS OF EMOTIONALLY ABUSIVE PARTNERS Iris: So we went to that wedding brunch, and I knew he was on edge the whole time. Other people didn’t necessarily see that. We got back to the house we were making our home together, which was his house. And he was angry, he didn’t want to go on our honeymoon, but I was like, I’ve been planning a wedding. All I have been thinking of is being able to go rest on a beach. So he agreed to go, and it was a really a horrible week. He was just fighting. His anger and unreasonableness, were more signs of a toxic relationship. It’s so hard, because he can make it feel like I’m also participating. We finally came home after the week, and at several points I thought maybe I should just fly home,’because it was awful. How would I even ask somebody to come and pick me up? What would I say? What would I do? Feeling so humiliated, like we had this big wedding, we’d done all this preparation, so we finally came home and I remember the first morning after we’d gotten home. He got up, he didn’t even talk to me. He grabbed his mountain bike, and he went mountain biking all day. That was a pattern that repeats throughout our marriage, where he just does his own, yeah. Anne: I had a mountain biking all day incident as well that I wrote about in my book. All of a sudden I’m like, what is happening? This is Twilight Zone, yes. Iris: No way. The Chucks, it’s the Chuck thing, which has been the most powerful thing to learn. WOMEN HAVE DIFFERENT RESPONSES Anne: Surreal that they’re all the same. I think that’s one of the powerful things about our group sessions is that the women are so different. We all react differently and we’re all doing the right thing. Because all of our personalities are different. So some of us want to protect ourselves by being quiet and sitting back and that’s the right thing for us. Some of us want to fight the guy, because that’s how our personality is. But they do all the same things. It doesn’t seem the same, because we haven’t acted the same. And I think the thing that like really helps it all come together is when you realize they’re so transactional. That they’re going to manipulate you in whatever way works for you, all signs of a toxic relationship. So if you’ve been trying to protect yourself in a certain way, they’ve been countering your protection methods in a certain way. And then when you change up the way you’re trying to protect yourself, they almost become like a different person. But they’ve been that same exact person the whole time. It’s just that they’re so transactional that they’re like, oh, that’s not working anymore. I have to do this other thing. And this whole new set of problems comes out so they can be super, super nice or super aggressive. But the whole time, it’s manipulation and lies. Did he ever go through a time where he seemed like he was really great? WHEN PREGNANCY AND BAD ADVICE KEEP YOU STUCK WITH SIGNS OF A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP Iris: I got pregnant right away, so I probably would’ve left, but then I was pregnant and trying to navigate that. When I found out I was pregnant with my first baby, I went to therapy right away, and that therapist just didn’t have the skills to recognize an emotional cycle of abuse and really gaslit me. Then got pregnant again when my daughter was nine months old. So I had two babies, under 18 months old. That was another thing. In my faith, that I grew up with, you’re supposed to accept all babies. That was something that really kept me trapped. I knew once I was pregnant that I would always have to be linked to him. And that was incredibly devastating and terrifying. I think the Christian, and I’m going to say trope, I don’t want to make fun of anybody, but the trope of marriage that you just have to work hard enough and it will all be fine. That really was so damaging when signs of a toxic relationship are present. He did tell me early in our marriage that he had struggled with porn. He did the Every Man’s Battle stuff and everything like that. Also he confided in me that he’d used some at work. He has a security clearance and was about to be interviewed with a, polygraph. He was afraid they would ask him something like that. At the time, he was abusive our whole marriage, but it was the most intense. I didn’t even have the wherewithal to understand that. It was disturbing, it made me feel awful. But I didn’t have any brain space to process what to do with that. He downloaded it on me to get it off his chest. HE WAS Emotionally ABUSIVE ALL OF THE TIME Iris: After my second baby was born, he was probably seven months old, I tried to leave to go to a mom’s group. My ex-husband was angry with me because of my daughter, who’s my older one. I was working on potty training her. And I let her wear pants without underwear. She pooped and he was furious. He came up behind me in the bathroom and pushed me against the counter and said, “Next time, make sure she wears underwear.” So he was abusive all of the time, disrupted my sleep, and would wake me up in the night angry if I coughed. I had to sleep on 18 inches of the bed or less, without moving to not anger him. The reaction I had was to kick him to get him to back up. That’s when he grabbed me by the throat and started to strangle me. And I know now, but I felt terrible later. All I wanted to do was leave. I got my coat and I got in the car and I left. My children were still in the house with him. I just wanted to get away. I went to the mom’s group like everything was fine. But I was dissociated and in trauma. I had gone to my therapist then within a day or two and just poured everything out. And her response was, other women have it worse. And I was so humiliated, like feeling somehow I had caused this. Even though like I knew, I have education. I was in my thirties, I knew that wasn’t right. But the abuse had taken so much of my strength. That kept me so trapped for so long. It made it harder to open up. Therapists aren’t equipped to see signs of a toxic relationship Iris: And we went to so many marriage therapists, who just aren’t equipped. Because Chuck is charming, and they just don’t understand the dynamic except for one therapist who we did not go back to. They didn’t see the signs of a toxiC relationship. But she was crazy. So we went in, it was this dilapidated house. She was far back in the house. The door was open. We went in and sat down. Literally a dog with sores and the cone of shame came out, and she was like, I’ll be right there. Chuck was like, so wigged out. She came out and talked to us for a little while. She also had paranoid notes tacked up on her wall. Anyway, she talks to us for a little while, and Chuck is so wigged out, so Chuck is walking out. And before we leave she says, I want to give you something. And she hands me a page, and it has books on it. So I went home and ordered it, and then it came and I didn’t read it, like I couldn’t read it. I didn’t read it for the longest time, because it was just so painful. But that was the only therapist who saw the signs of a toxic relationship. And then I found out the next week she lost her license, in the newspaper. Anyway, she was the only one who saw the abuse and handed me a key. Anne: So she handed you a clue. When His “I Choose You” Doesn't Add Up Iris: A clue, and she was right. I had gone to other therapists over the years. I looked just crazy, because I would just cry. One therapist had different offices and I would always go to the wrong one. because I had no short term working memory available. Chuck disrupted my sleep. I’d be in the shower, he’d bring the baby in screaming and put them on the bath mat and I’d have to get out and take care of the baby. He’d drive angry, the list goes on and on. I just didn’t have the words to explain. We went to a mom’s group event where dads were invited. And he was angry at me the whole time, but only I knew that. And then I had to get in the car and drive home with him. So it was really intense. And then at about the seven year mark, he decided that marriage worked for him. It was such a delight, such a relief to have him gone for two weeks. He came home from a business trip. And he said, “I realized it’s been you the whole time. You’re really the one that I want to be married to.” Anne: Oh Iris: Right. Anne: Wait, he was having an affair. Iris: I don’t know. Anne: That sounds like something someone would say if they just broke up with someone. Because they’re like trying to choose between the person they’re having an affair with. In my book, I put the pieces together. FROM THE DAY WE GOT MARRIED, THERE WERE SIGNS OF A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP Anne: After interviewing over 200 women and hearing their stories. I’m pretty good at knowing what happened. I think in this situation, he’s having an affair and she breaks up with him. He’s feeling bummed about it. He might say out loud to you, I decided I want to be with you. Iris: Mm hmm Anne: You don’t have the context of the affair, of him breaking up with her. So this really weird out of the blue statement, “I’ve decided I want to be married to you.” When he’s been married to you for seven years is odd. It also feels like a relief, “Oh, maybe he just didn’t want to be married to me before, and now he’s choosing me.” But you don’t realize what a weird out of place thing that is, because he makes you feel better in that moment. I don’t know if that rings true to you, but it seems that would be the order of events that would precipitate out of the blue, telling you, “Oh, I’m choosing you now.” Iris: Yeah, it didn’t make me feel better, because from the day we got married, he was horrible. it was awful. Anne: So you’re like, great. Now this awful person really wants to be married to me. Iris: It felt like a lie. Now that I understand how Chuck works, like there was something he wanted, he didn’t really love me. Somebody who really loved me and realized they were wrong would’ve not said that. I think they would’ve said, ” I’ve been horrible. I can see why you wouldn’t even want to be married to me, but I realized I really want to be married to you. They would’ve said something to try to heal that. Anne: Some effort to repair. Seeing the Patterns and Signs of a Toxic Relationship Anne: Instead it was more signs of a toxic relationship. Iris: I think so. And I think that’s why it felt awful. Because he manipulated me. Which I don’t think I could verbalize at that time, but he manipulated again. Anne: Were you about to leave at that time? Was there anything about you that was different? Iris: He knew that I was unhappy, but he was abusive all of the time, yeah. Anne: Did you ever find out about explicit media use? Iris: He told me, in hindsight, he’d invited a single woman that he’d never met to our wedding. Which was weird. It was a last minute thing, and I feel like she was probably a backup. Anne: You’ve said three stories now that sound exactly like other stories. I have heard this before. Your story includes all the classic, down to the detail. Iris: Wow Anne: Of inviting someone else to the wedding. Iris: The Chuckness of it. Anne: You got a winner. Iris: He’s a doozy. He told me later that he didn’t actually want to get married. Then when I look at inviting this woman to the wedding, he didn’t admit that for many years. But when he did, I was like, oh, so she must have been the escape hatch. If he didn’t go through with marrying me, he would’ve had someone in the wings. FEELING HELPLESS Iris: I suspect he continues to use porn. He is in cybersecurity, and he always had three computers in his office. So I wonder if one of those he used. I don’t know. I’ve always been curious about what that was. I don’t think I was as tuned into that until I was leaving the marriage. And then there wasn’t much that I had access to. There wasn’t anybody that seemed to have that language who I could talk to. I just felt really helpless, and he was very manipulative and very controlling, the love bombing, he is very good at. The other part was that I was super reactive at that point. So I felt very guilty about my responses to his behavior. Even though it was less intense and further apart. But the reality is that those first seven years, in the bedroom, total coercion, marital rape, and everything now that I have words for, had happened. By that point, like there was very little he had to do to make me comply, to try to stay out of his way. I would try to have a separate life, while maintaining that Christian marriage appearance. It took me a long time to see these as signs of a toxic relationship. Anne: We would probably call it like survival mode. You are trying to survive and that’s why a lot of people use the word survivor when they talk about abuse victims, because every day you’re just trying to survive. Why Getting Help Feels So Scary at First Iris: Yeah, daily. Navigate all of the things that are happening that just don’t make any sense. And I don’t have the words for. I think during the pandemic, I started to see your Instagrams. And it was like, oh, that’s what’s happening, those are the words. That’s what this is. And beginning to be able to label things and feel like I’m not alone. Then, wanting to join group, but then being afraid. What if it doesn’t help, I don’t want Chuck to know I’m joining? Just feeling do I really want to do that? because I felt like if I go through that door, I can’t go back. Anne: Can we talk about that for a minute? because a lot of women have told me that. I followed you on Instagram, or I listened to the podcast, and I didn’t start attending group sessions because I knew it would change everything. What is it about BTR that is different in that way? It’s different than maybe therapy or something. Is it because you’re going to finally get help to look at it. Seeing the signs of a toxic relationship can be scary at first. Iris: This can make me cry. I think, because no one had helped. So I think there was an element of, I could try this and probably it’s still not going to help. By that point, looking for help for so long and thinking, I don’t know that anything will help. then being so vulnerable and beaten down. I think there’s a sense of like, does anybody really want to help me? Do I deserve help? because it certainly seems like it’s my fault. So being very afraid to join a group. Like it’s terrifying the first day. BTR FELT LIKE AN ANSWER TO PRAYER Anne: Once you did attend a group session? Were you surprised at what happened? Iris: Yeah, the first day I joined, you hear that zoom beep and you are in group and feeling so afraid. But I was so welcome. it was like I could take a breath, even though really I was crying so hard. Hearing everybody talk, hearing the coaches talk, feeling like the words made sense. I didn’t share that first time, but just crying afterwards. Like there’s somewhere that gets this. There’s somewhere where there are other women who understand this. I’ve never met anybody who knows what’s happening to me. In my story, something that’s amazing was that when my daughter was a baby, there was this show on daytime TV called Starting Over House. It was a reality show for women to go to this house and start over. They had two coaches, and I remember watching these women go, and they had all different kinds of problems that they were trying to grow from or whatever. All I wanted was to take my baby and join that house. It was a reality show. I’m sure it would not have been really super helpful. But I just wanted to have people love on me and help me figure out my marriage. That’s all I wanted. So when I came to Betrayal Trauma Recovery group, I’m not kidding you, two of the coaches looked like those two coaches on that show. It just felt like it was a prayer answer. HIS ANGER WAS THERE ALL THE TIME Iris: So Sharon and Renee, two coaches loved on me and made me feel like I wasn’t crazy. And helped me to slowly unravel what had been happening and what had happened to me, and find my voice. I joined in the spring, I was already starting to take steps in my marriage to not engage with Chuck. By July, he was angry with me all of the time. Which I’ll come back to in just a minute. But , before I had joined, he had done some really angry driving in the car. He’d been angry one day when I had locked the door to the master bedroom, because I like to pray and meditate. And then I had gotten in the shower without unlocking it. Because I just want privacy from two kids, a dog and a Chuck. He banged on the door for as long as I was in the shower, and I could hardly hear him, but it scared the pants off of my kids. I felt like I didn’t know what to do. When I joined group, I finally started to have some strategies and observe him. Sometimes I forget all the things that happened. Right before I joined in February, he bought a new car and asked for money from his father. Then he came to me and said, “I didn’t spend all the money on the car. I saved some, so either you can go to marriage therapy with me.”, which he’d been threatening, and I didn’t want to go to marriage therapy with him because we’d been many, many times. GROUP HELPED ME SEE THE SIGNS OF A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP Iris: He said, “Either you go to marriage therapy with me, and I’ll buy a car for our daughter, or I’m going to divorce you. Not long after that, I ended up joining group. Then he said, “I used that money to file for divorce. I hired an attorney, and how do you want me to serve you your papers?” At that point, I had enough skill to say you can have me served, thank you. And it was super calm. And then I actually jumped in group and was able to just process. One of the things that was so amazing was that everything happening to me in real time, I could then go in a group, get support, be in my closet, my car, or at the library. The more I went towards health and boundaries, the angrier he got. So he actually continued to ask me for two months how I wanted my divorce papers. I can see how divorce and emotional abuse were intertwined, he was using the threat of divorce to try to control me. I would say, “You can have me served.” And he would say, I don’t want to pay $400. He did that until I got a paper in the mail and I thought that I was being served. I didn’t think I could be served in the mail, which you can’t in my state, but it was actually that they were going to kick it out of the system. I took that paper to an attorney, because I had been interviewing attorneys. That kicked off the divorce process. Because I was served. Anne: That whole time he is asking, “How do you want to be served? And you’re like, “Just serve me.” DEALING WITH CONTROL WHEN HE FILED FOR DIVORCE Anne: He's trying to get you to do something to stop the divorce. He threatens you—if you don't toe the line, I'll divorce you. When you’re like, okay, go ahead and divorce me, then he’s escalating. Using all the tricks and signs of a toxic relationship that worked before. He reminds me of my ex, who said that. Then he didn’t file. Because he thought that would instigate me repairing. Or me doing the thing I was supposed to do. And when I didn’t do it, I don’t think he wanted to file for divorce. It’s just that he couldn’t figure out how to control me anymore. He was like, well, I guess I have to make these things happen. And it sounds the same in this scenario, where he’s trying to get you to do something. Because a normal person, if they’re like, how do you want me to serve you? And you say, oh, just serve me. They’d be like, okay. And they would serve you. Iris: Right, it was control. I was so thankful I could go back in group and have the framework, putting my lab coat on, doing one step at a time. Getting shored up so that I wouldn’t be bowled over by his behavior. I finally hired an attorney, and my attorney notified his attorney. Chuck came to me and said, “Well, that’s not fair. You didn’t tell me you had an attorney. And now we both have to decide to dismiss the divorce. I can’t just decide myself.” Anne: Like not to get divorced? After he’s filed, he’s like, wait. Now that you’ve responded to me serving you with divorce papers, we actually have to get divorced. Iris: Right. Anne: That sounds like my Chuck too. INDIVIDUAL SESSIONS HELPED ME GET READY FOR EACH BIG BATTLE Iris: Really, it’s like they’re all going by the same playbook. I think realizing that these are all the signs of a toxic relationship was huge. And it allowed me to understand that my job was to be strategic. Chuck does a lot of stupid as a strategy. That attorney he hired in July, by the time our status conference was in October, he’d used all of his retainer. Which was $5,000, and nothing had happened yet. Because he is a Chuck and likes to call his attorney to talk. So then right after the status conference, he fired the attorney and then went pro se for a while. I was so thankful that I had BTR, that I could do group. I could do the Betrayal Trauma Recovery individual sessions to get ready for each big barrier or battle with him, so that I went in calm and focused. It really allowed me, in my divorce process to understand that this was the best thing for me. Even though he was trying to control me. It was finally the door out. And he kept coming back to me and asking, “Do you really want a divorce?” And I would say, “You could move out.” But he never would. One of the other things was that understanding that there was going to be so much out of my control and really focusing on what was in my control. In my coaching sessions with Renee and with Sharon, being able to determine what my top priorities were. My priorities weren’t numbers. My priorities were big picture. And then I said, these are the things that are most important and this is what I want to work towards. And it helped me. I feel like things worked out well for me. WE SETTLED AN HOUR BEFORE COURT Iris: So having enough money to restart and go back to school. Having stability for my kids, not selling the house immediately so that my daughter could finish high school. Like those were the big picture things. And because Chuck just wants to fight, it was the 11th hour literally. He hired an attorney again, just weeks before our divorce was final. But we ended up settling like an hour before court. I was able just to hang on, to understand it was going to be like that no matter what I did. Like I didn’t have any control over him, and I really got up that morning not knowing what was going to happen. And being at peace in that, and that I was doing all the things that I needed to do, and to let go of that so that I wasn’t in a battle with him. That was incredibly powerful. Hard but powerful. So it’s been final for two years. And the post separation abuse continues, and BTR’s been incredibly helpful in that. I was able to stay in our marital home for a year till our daughter graduated, and then last year that sold. So I moved out and things just lined up. In part because he was so disorganized. I think that worked out in my favor. And I’m now in school finishing a post Master’s certificate in school counseling. And I got hired last fall as a school counselor. So I’m working full-time as a school counselor while finishing my certificate. Just having somewhere to work out the technical stuff and then the emotional stuff, to understand how to be strategic. RESTARTING MY LIFE Iris: Because I could stay in that place rather than be in his blender. Which is what it was for 18 years. I have been able to restart my life and feel so grateful and fortunate. That I’ve had the support, and he continues to be abusive. And my daughter now is 19 and my son is 17. And so being able to talk about that and how he behaves helped me. I know that at some point, I won’t have to interact with him as much. Or at all once my kids are bigger. But because of the type of abuser he is, because of the types of things he did to me, I know that I am at greater risk of him being dangerous to me physically. And so being able to unpack that, but also, understanding that I have a right to safety and that I can take steps to do that and not feel bad about it. He’s much sneakier now. He’s incredibly angry with me and feels like the divorce was unfair. Because his goal is control, he can’t control me anymore, I think is one reason why he’s angry. It is palpable when I’m around him. He seethes at me. Other people may not be able to see it because he’ll mask it until there’s nobody around. But I think it has been invaluable to me to have a community where I can process that and then take steps to be safe from all the signs of a toxic relationship. When I finally blocked him, which was scary to do, because we have two kids. And that was easier to be able to text and call. It was just another vector for him to get to me. BLOCKING HIM FELT SO EMPOWERING Iris: So blocking him and doing email only. It felt so empowering to make that decision and be able to unpack that in group and also get the support of “Yay, you finally blocked him.” Like I’d been talking about it for so long. And trying to figure out the signs of a toxic relationship, There are the big steps to leave abuse and there are smaller ones too. Sometimes it’s the little ones that felt really hard. Especially because then my kids would know that I blocked him. Moving away from abuse is hard. I left the house today because I have somebody cleaning my house, which I started hiring somebody. So that I can do all that I’m doing. because I’ve been in school and working full-time and parenting two teens, and it feels so empowering. When they walked in today, I was thinking, because I was coming to talk to you and I was like, they’re helping me leave abuse. And I can say that to you. I think you know that. But he was abusive with cleaning. He would wake me. He likes things clean. He’d wake the kids cleaning and it’s very controlling. But to have a clean house and not be abused, it’s hard to express. This is my safe space, and I get to decide how it gets clean. I get to decide how to spend my money. I get to make choices now that I couldn’t make before. I’m just so incredibly grateful that BTR, I can make choices and know that I can. Thank you. LEARNING THE STRATEGIES IS INVALUABLE Anne: You are so brave and so strong. Look at you. You’ve got a good job. You have enough money to be able to hire someone to help clean your house, and the lack of guilt. Because some people have the money, but they’re like, I still can’t. I should be able to, no, like look at all the amazing things that you’ve accomplished. When it comes to divorce, if people ask me my situation, I say I am proudly divorced. I am so happy divorced. And I also say things like abuse doesn’t work out for a lot of people, but it worked out so well for me. Because everything that I have gained from learning about the signs of a toxic relationship and the strategies of protecting myself, has been invaluable. Like our confidence just grows day by day. That little voice in our heads and that little like charge that feels like I’m doing something wrong or I can’t do this or I can’t do that just starts to fade away. And life feels so free and wonderful. I’m so happy for you. It’s wonderful. Good job. Iris: Thank you, thank you for starting BTR and your podcasts were such a beacon for me too. Before I started group of these voices saying, “You’re not alone, you’re not crazy.” Listening to your voice, I still probably need to hear that a lot, because he makes me feel crazy. So thank you. Anne: Well, thank you, without women like you who listen and come and use our services, we wouldn’t be here. So thank you. Our services are incredible. Our team is incredible. It’s such a safe place. THE DIFFERENCE WITH BTR SERVICES Anne: I’ve been thinking a lot about the difference between BTR and the difference in our services is that it’s so real. You really have women you can see who know your story. You can talk to them every single day in person . And they’re never going to blame you or judge you. It’s never going to be that you made some kind of soul contract, like the weird stuff that you might hear from people who somehow try to blame you. I’m like, there’s no reason to ever say any of it had anything to do with you. because you were surviving the best you could the whole time, and you were going for help, and no one gave you the right information. And none of that has anything to do with you. They are helping you deal with the signs of a toxic relationship. That’s the crazy thing about abuse. You’re doing every single thing right and you still can’t get the right information. Despite you trying to get it for years. Some people don’t believe it, because they can’t imagine that would happen. But it happens every day with so many women all over the world. Anyway, thank you for your support of BTR. Iris: It is really such a privilege to be in this community. I felt, loved on and prayed for fiercely. BTR GIVES US THE STRATEGIES THAT WE NEED Iris: I remember when I first started. I thought they’re giving us the weapons that we need to fight the battle. Almost under the cover of darkness. They sort of come into our homes, our cars, our closets, and give us the weapons we need to fight the evil that is happening to all of us. Like all of a sudden realizing the support, but also the education that BTR does, is invaluable, to help us recognize and deal with the signs of a toxic relationship. I could get out of my reactive brain and really start to think, “Oh, this is what’s happening. Okay, this is what I can do. Chuck is doing this. This is what I’ve always done, but I don’t have to do that. I can do this.” It changed everything. Anne: Well, I am so glad, thank you so much, Iris, for taking the time to share your story with me today. Iris: Thank you.

حلقة جديدة مهمة من البودكاسترز مع د. مهاب مجاهد، بنتكلم عن العلاقات، الجواز، الطلاق، التربية، والأزمات النفسية اللي بتأثر على حياتنا اليومية. هل المشكلة فعلًا في استسهال الطلاق؟ ولا في استسهال الجواز من البداية؟ د. مهاب مجاهد بيشرح إزاي نختار شريك الحياة صح، وإيه الفرق بين الحب الحقيقي وشريك الحياة، وليه التوافق المادي والاجتماعي والفكري أهم من مجرد المشاعر. في الحلقة بنتكلم كمان عن العلاقات السامة، النرجسية، الخوف من الالتزام، الذكورة والأنوثة السامة، وإزاي الجواز الناجح محتاج فضل ومرونة مش حقوق بس. كمان بندخل في جزء مهم جدًا عن تربية الأطفال، العقاب الصحي، حماية الطفل من التنمر والإيذاء، وبر الوالدين، وتأثير الطلاق على الأبناء. حلقة مهمة لكل شخص بيفكر في الجواز، داخل علاقة، متجوز، أو عنده أطفال وعايز يفهم نفسه وعلاقاته بشكل أعمق. A new important episode of El Podcasters with Dr. Mohab Megahed, where we talk about relationships, marriage, divorce, parenting, and the psychological struggles that affect our everyday lives. Is the real problem the ease of divorce? Or is it the ease of getting married in the first place? Dr. Mohab Megahed explains how to choose the right life partner, the difference between love and a life partner, and why financial, social, and intellectual compatibility can be more important than emotions alone. In this episode, we also discuss toxic relationships, narcissism, fear of commitment, toxic masculinity and femininity, and why a successful marriage needs grace and flexibility, not just rights. We also dive into a very important conversation about parenting, healthy discipline, protecting children from bullying and abuse, filial piety, and the impact of divorce on children. An important episode for anyone thinking about marriage, currently in a relationship, married, or raising children and for anyone who wants to understand themselves and their relationships on a deeper level رابط موقعنا, انضم إلى مجتمعنا: https://www.elpodcasters.com/ our website link, join our community: https://www.elpodcasters.com/ ‎اسمعوا البودكاسترز على | Listen to El-Podcasters on Spotify - https://anchor.fm/elpodcasters Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/eg/podcast/el-podcasters/id1633419184 Anghami - https://play.anghami.com/podcast/1029463712 El-Podcasters Social Media | منصات التواصل الإجتماعي للبودكاسترز: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/elpodcasters Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@elpodcasters Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/elpodcasters Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/elpodcasters/ X - https://www.twitter.com/elpodcasters Snapchat - https://snapchat.com/t/3Zbo2vzS Bassel Alzaro - https://www.instagram.com/basselalzaro https://www.facebook.com/BasselAlzaroX https://snapchat.com/t/CoWlatfk Karim Rihan - https://www.instagram.com/karimrihann Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why does life feel boring after you leave a toxic or narcissistic relationship? In this video, I break down why peace can feel unsettling, empty, or even wrong after years of living in chaos. If you've escaped a narcissist but find yourself craving drama, missing the highs and lows, or feeling like something is missing, this is for you.I explain the psychology behind why your nervous system got wired for chaos, how trauma bonding rewires what feels "normal," and why quiet moments can feel uncomfortable instead of peaceful. More importantly, I share practical steps to rewire your brain so silence starts to feel like freedom, not emptiness.This is part of the healing journey that nobody talks about, the stage where you're out, but you don't feel all the way free yet. Let's change that.All my links - https://link.me/mentalhealness

If you've ever found yourself paralyzed by the fear that your ex is slowly turning your children against you and there's nothing you can do about it, this conversation is for you.In this episode of Been There Got Out, Lisa Johnson sits down with Dr. Alicia del Prado, a licensed counseling psychologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, to talk about one of the most painful experiences a parent can go through: parental alienation. But rather than focusing only on what's happening, Dr. del Prado brings her clinical expertise to what you can actually do — specific, grounded strategies to prevent alienation from taking hold, minimize its impact when it has already started, and stay psychologically intact through all of it.One of the most important things she says: fear is a filter. When we're operating from that deep, primal terror of losing our kids, we make decisions that can actually make things worse — not because we're bad parents, but because our nervous system is in survival mode. Understanding that is the first step toward changing it.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:✅ What parental alienation actually is — and why it affects an estimated 22 million divorced and separated parents in the US and Canada alone✅ Why feeling hopeless about parental alienation is understandable — and what to focus on instead✅ How fear acts as a "filter" that distorts your decisions and what to do about it without suppressing your emotions✅ The most common misconceptions people have about alienation — both from inside the situation and from the outside✅ How to support a friend or family member going through parental alienation without saying the wrong thing✅ How to use your child's love language to stay connected even when they're pushing you away✅ What to do when your child screams at you, ignores you, or says they hate you✅ The micro goals framework: how to keep showing up consistently even when you see no results✅ Why children in these situations usually do come back — and what gives them the courage toTIMESTAMPS:00:00 — Introduction: Why we're revisiting this conversation (audio issues from previous recording)01:10 — What parental alienation actually is: a definition from a clinical psychologist02:30 — The 22 million statistic: how widespread parental alienation really is03:15 — Dr. del Prado's personal background and why this topic is close to her heart04:30 — "I feel like it's destined" — addressing the hopelessness alienated parents feel06:00 — Fear is a filter: how trauma responses hijack parenting decisions in high-conflict situations08:15 — Misconceptions about parental alienation from the inside: why catastrophizing makes it worse10:00 — Misconceptions from the outside: what friends and family get wrong and how to ask for support12:30 — The Constructive Conversations model (with Dr. Anastasia Kim) for difficult dialogue14:15 — Using love languages with alienated children: quality time, words of affirmation, gift giving, touch17:00 — When your child doesn't respond to your love language efforts: the power of repetition18:30 — Reliability and consistency: why attachment is built over time, not in a single reunion20:00 — When children are openly hostile: what to do in the moment when your child screams at you22:45 — Self-regulation tools for targeted parents (including Marsha Linehan's distress tolerance skills)24:30 — Setting limits with your child during a hostile encounter without escalating26:00 — Micro goals: why big reunion fantasies set you up to fail — and what works instead28:30 — Making micro goals about your behavior, not your child's response30:15 — Do alienated children come back? What the statistics actually show31:30 — How to find Dr. del Prado and her practiceABOUT DR. ALICIA DEL PRADO:Dr. Alicia del Prado is a licensed counseling psychologist and the founder of a group practice in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her clinical work spans children, adults, families, and couples navigating relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Dr. del Prado brings both professional expertise and personal perspective to the topic of parental alienation — as a child of divorced parents herself, she understands both the systemic challenges families face and the emotional complexity children carry through these transitions. She is co-developer (with Dr. Anastasia Kim) of the Constructive Conversations model, a step-by-step approach to having difficult but necessary dialogues with people we care about.CONNECT WITH DR. DEL PRADO on Instagram: @DoctorDelPrado & @DelPradoCounseling

Jessie Reyez on Dating Life in Music, Toxic Relationships, “DUSTY” Meaning, Cheating Stories + MoreSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jessie Reyez on Dating Life in Music, Toxic Relationships, “DUSTY” Meaning, Cheating Stories + More Tell Us A Secret Ask YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adam helps a client to objectively evaluate a relationship they thought was toxic to make new decisions as to what they wanted for their life and their future.

If you've been ordered into parenting coordination, or you're wondering whether a parenting coordinator could help your high-conflict custody case, this conversation is for you.Lisa sits down with Nicole Sodoma, a family law attorney with 26 years of experience, founding partner of Sodoma Law (seven locations across the Carolinas), and a practicing parenting coordinator since 2005. What makes Nicole's perspective uniquely powerful is that she's not just an expert — she's a targeted parent who has personally worked with three different parenting coordinators since her own separation in 2019. She knows this process from every angle.Together, they break down what a parenting coordinator actually does, who gets one (and why), what the most common and costly mistakes parents make are, and the practical communication and documentation strategies that can help you stop making them — starting today.Whether your parenting coordinator seems to be favoring your ex, you're confused about what decisions they can and can't make, or you're just trying to understand how to use this process strategically, Nicole gives you a clear, honest roadmap.

I break down some of the most insidious and subtle ways abusers use language to dominate the narrative and erode your sense of reality.I walk you through five distinct patterns of weaponized communication: emotional manipulation disguised as vulnerability, defensiveness used as a silencing tool, blame-shifting hidden behind false equivalence, coercion dressed up as ultimatums, and silence deployed as punishment. Each example reveals the same underlying strategy — redirecting accountability, centering the abuser's discomfort, and leaving you questioning whether your own feelings are valid.If you've ever felt confused after a conversation you thought was reasonable, found yourself apologizing for simply expressing how you feel, or wondered whether you're the problem — this episode is for you. Because weaponized communication isn't poor communication. It's a strategy, and once you can see it, you can begin to break free from it.Support the show*Please Note: there is a long intro that explains my services. If you do not want to listen, just fast-forward 5 mins past. This intro will be changed in future recordings to be shorter. I am not paid to record this podcast and it is a free offering. Offering my work is the only way I can sustain the podcast*Join the Patreon: https://patreon.com/Youarenotcrazy*New Course*: Unhooked: Map the Cycle of Abuse in your RelationshipWebsite: Emotional Abuse Coach and high-conflictdivorcecoaching.comInstagram: @emotionalabusecoachEmail: jessica@jessicaknightcoaching.com{Substack} Blog About Recovering from Abuse{E-Book} How to Break Up with a Narcissist{Course} Identify Signs of Abuse and Begin to Heal{Free Resource} Canned Responses for Engaging with an Abusive Partner

When comparing toxic relationships vs. healthy relationships, there are many differences. Boundaries are handled differently. Reciprocity is one-way in one and two-way in the other. One has mutual understanding; the other doesn't. Only one has mutual goodwill and cooperation.  Another difference is how ruptures and repairs are handled. All relationships have conflict and disagreements. All relationships have ups and downs, but not all know how to fix those issues and heal the wounds. Knowing how to recognize the differences can help you identify dysfunctional, toxic relationships, adjust your expectations, and plan your response. All of these strategies will help you make decisions to protect yourself now and in the future. Toxic and healthy relationships have ruptures, but only healthy ones have repairs. Watch this video to get insight into how to identify toxic people and healthy people in the way they handle this difference.    Karla Downing's passion is to see individuals, marriages, and families set free from dysfunction, scriptural misunderstanding, and emotional pain personally and relationally. Her Christian relationship advice includes messages, books, and classes that provide practical solutions grounded in biblical truths, bringing balance and clarity to life and relationship issues. She also desires to equip ministry leaders and counselors to reach out more effectively to those struggling with difficult relationships, including abuse.  #toxicrelationships  #toxicpeople #christianrelationshipadvice #dysfunctionalrelationship #conflict #healthyrelationship    Website: https://www.changemyrelationship.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChangeMyRelationship YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@changemyrelationship Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/whZtxafdOdY  

Is there fear that consumes you when you think about ending your relationship?Going back and forth in your decision because of layers of fear you're feeling is something my former client Laura Herrmann experienced before she divorced her ex husband. We talk about how she moved through it all and came into her knowing, as well as the inner child healing that allowed her to finally get her light (and her groove) back in her romantic and professional life.In this episode, you will:Hear how Laura transcended her fear of leaving and rewrote her narrative around failureUnderstand the important difference between being alone vs being lonelySee the power of inner child healing and how it enables Laura to now show up in a healthy relationship that is worlds different than what she's ever experiencedClick play for inspiration and tips on how to move through your fear and finally find yourself on the other side.QUICK LINKS FROM EPISODE:Schedule your free Intro Session: https://tinyurl.com/freeintroseshpodRESOURCES FOR YOUR HEALING:

What does a Guardian Ad Litem really think when a 10-year-old says they want 50/50 custody?Crystal Wright has heard it hundreds of times — and she can tell instantly when a child has been coached. As a family law attorney AND a working GAL in Atlanta, Georgia, Crystal is one of the rare practitioners who has seen the custody system from every angle: as the attorney fighting for clients, as the neutral investigator protecting children, and as the professional who has had exactly one parent incarcerated for defying her court orders.In this conversation, Crystal joins Lisa Johnson to unpack one of the most contentious questions in family law: when should a child's voice be allowed to decide their custody arrangement — and when should it be completely disregarded?The answer, Crystal says, has nothing to do with how articulate or advanced your child is. It has everything to do with whether the language they're using sounds like an actual child — or like someone's lawyer.What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ How GALs instantly detect when a child has been coached — and what specific language is a dead giveaway✅ Why "I want 50/50 custody" coming from a 10-year-old should raise immediate red flags✅ What the 'borrowed scenarios' phenomenon looks like in a real investigation✅ How Crystal visits kids at their schools — without telling the parents — and why she always gets new information✅ The real impact on children when they're put in the middle: clinical depression, self-harm, 17-year-olds calling their GAL crying at 10pm✅ At what ages (11 and 14 in Georgia) a child's preference becomes legally relevant — and why that still doesn't mean they get to choose✅ The non-negotiable case for reunification therapy — and what Crystal does to parents who try to block it✅ How to find a qualified GAL and what to look for in a mental health expert for an older, refusing child✅ What to do when your child won't see you: Crystal's direct advice to rejected parents⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 — Introduction: How Lisa and Crystal met at the Bridging the Gap conference in London01:45 — How a GAL tells the difference: coached child vs. genuine preference04:30 — Crystal's background: family law attorney, boutique firm in Atlanta, and why she loves GAL work06:00 — Advanced children vs. coached children: why intelligence isn't the issue08:15 — "I want 50/50" — why that phrase signals coaching immediately10:00 — Age and preference in Georgia: the affidavit of election at 11, determinative weight at 1413:30 — Why Crystal stopped having children sign affidavits of election15:45 — The 17-year-old: even at near-adulthood, best interest analysis still controls18:00 — Reaction to New Jersey's ruling: what does it mean for children's long-term wellbeing?21:00 — Why Crystal visits children at their schools — without telling parents — and what she learns23:30 — Children and truth-telling: parroting, fawning, and protecting a parent26:00 — Loyalty conflicts: the real emotional impact on children stuck in the middle29:00 — Clinical depression, self-harm, and older kids calling Crystal crying at 10pm32:00 — Older children refusing contact: how to make the case for intervention to the court35:00 — Reunification therapy: Crystal has never been denied an order for it — and here's why38:30 — What happens to parents who block reunification therapy: contempt motions and incarceration41:00 — What kind of expert witness to bring in for an older refusing child43:30 — False allegations and fake documents: how they're handled in investigation46:00 — How to find a good GAL and what qualifications actually matter48:30 — How to prepare your child for a GAL interview (and what NOT to say)51:00 — Advice for rejected parents: don't give up, keep reaching out, send birthday gifts54:00 — Memory, photographs, and why fighting for a child who doesn't want you right now still matters56:30 — How to find Crystal Wright and closing remarks

In today's episode we explore toxic relationships. We've all had them whether they are with partners, friends, social media, food, substances, or even our government.  We seek to understand the hallmarks of them, what to do about it once you see the truth, why we get in them in the first place, and the parts of self we need to own that might be attracting in such relationships. We talk about: Toxic behaviors and the signs that we are definitely caught in a toxic relationship. Why we are drawn to them, and why they are so confusing. Do we break up or let it fade away? The work we may need to do to understand the patterns that allow such toxicity into our life. Dr Clarissa Pinkola Este's take on how to fend off toxic ideas, people and groups using the symbolism of the butterfly. Other Episodes You Might Like:  Episode 197: Connecting To & Healing Your Inner Child Episode 183: Anger: Still Channeling the Fire Episode 174: Codependent No More Episode 161: Intergenerational Trauma Episode 150: Healing The 3 Feminine Wounds Episode 66: Therapy Anyone? Today's Episode sponsored by: Kate Moreland Coaching (https://www.katemorelandcoaching.com/) Dr Yoga Momma (https://dryogamomma.com/) Heartland Yoga (https://heartlandyoga.com/) Want to do coaching work with Kate or mind-body psychotherapy with Betsy?  Kate Moreland Coaching (https://www.katemorelandcoaching.com/) Dr Yoga Momma (https://dryogamomma.com/) Want to go on retreat? Want to join Betsy in Mexico in February May 20-27, 2027 on retreat?  This beautiful retreat center in the nourishing haven of Playa Chacala on the Pacific Ocean will the home for a week of deep self-care.  Teaching retreat is one of Betsy's favorite jobs as it gives her a chance to move into deeper realms with people over an extended period of time using the tools of yoga, meditation, hypnosis, energy work, and self-inquiry.  People typically observe deep shifts and quantum leaps forward on such retreats.   All the details here! – Interested in Rewilding this Summer with Kate & Betsy? Join us for a 4-week LIVE online course starting July 7-28, 2026.  The course includes 4 90-minute live classes with Betsy & Kate, 8 online yoga classes with a Rewilding Box that includes items to support your journey. Registration opens 6/16. Stay tuned! Source

This episode breaks down what manipulation is and why it's so common in relationships with people struggling with mental health. It also gives actionable strategies for resisting the effects of manipulation.Have you ever been in a relationship where you found it hard to think for yourself? You somehow make decisions that are out of character and doubt yourself so much, you're not sure what's real? In this episode, Dr. Kibby exposes the truth behind these tactics: what manipulation really is, how it shows up, and most importantly, how to regain control. Deep dive ahead: you'll discover why manipulation isn't always "evil," but an abuse of normal strategies for communication and social influence. We're being manipulated all the time by ads, entertainment, sales, and even our health providers. But it becomes harmful when it robs you of your autonomy and sacrifices your wellbeing for the manipulator's gain. Dr. Kibby unpacks concrete tactics, like gaslighting, guilt-tripping, love withdrawal, surveillance, and coercive control, that abusers use to undermine your decision-making. She explores how these tactics often leverage your vulnerabilities and blur your sense of choice and agency, whether in romantic, family, or workplace dynamics.Feeling manipulated is common in relationships with people with mental illnesses like borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, or trauma. Actually BOTH the individual with disorders and their loved ones often feel manipulated. Dr. Kibby also breaks down the research behind manipulation in BPD and narcissistic abuse.Why does this matter? Because understanding these subtle tactics can protect your mental well-being, help you spot emotional tricks early, and empower you to set healthier boundaries. This episode offers practical strategies and tools to disarm manipulation's grip and reclaim your personal agency. Whether you're navigating toxic family ties, romantic relationships, or workplace conflicts, this episode reveals the unseen manipulative tactics at play and how to dismantle them. Resources:If you need more hands-on help with feeling manipulated by people with mental health or addiction challenges, check out ⁠KulaMind

Are your daily habits negatively impacting your hormones and your overall health? And when it comes to hormones, are you focusing on only your sex hormones? It turns out other hormones are running the show! This episode breaks down common hormone dealbreakers and practical steps you can take to avoid them and reclaim your health.On this episode of Salad with a Side of Fries, host Jenn Trepeck is joined by Robin Nielsen, board-certified integrative nutritionist and founder of Natural Hormone Solution, to unpack the hidden hormone dealbreakers quietly sabotaging your health. From the real role of cortisol rhythm to the truth about cholesterol and sex hormones, xenoestrogens in your face cream, and why your to-do list is wrecking your endocrine system, this conversation is a masterclass in natural hormone balance for women at every stage of life.What You Will Learn in This Episode:✅ Why cortisol and insulin are your two most important hormones and how their dysregulation drives symptoms that are often misread as perimenopause or aging.✅ How environmental xenoestrogens found in face creams, shampoos, and household cleaners silently disrupt your estrogen balance and what to do about it.✅ The critical connection between eating for hormone balance, meal timing, and why skipping breakfast and over-exercising are two of the most damaging habits for women's hormonal health.✅ How cholesterol actually serves as the building block for all your steroid hormones, and why lowering it too aggressively may be making your symptoms worse.The Salad With a Side of Fries podcast, hosted by Jenn Trepeck, explores real-life wellness and weight-loss topics, debunking myths, misinformation, and flawed science surrounding nutrition and the food industry. Let's dive into wellness and weight loss for real life, including drinking, eating out, and skipping the grocery store.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Jenn introduces Robin Nielsen, founder of Natural Hormone Solution and integrative nutritionist04:57 Robin shares her personal story: decades of weight gain, cystic acne, and digestive health issues09:18 Why common symptoms are not normal: hormone imbalance signs you may be ignoring11:27 Your sex hormones aren't the only ones linked to your overall health and wellness15:41 Cortisol rhythm explained: how your brain responds to daily stress and excess cortisol21:14 Hormone dealbreaker one: how negative thoughts and low serotonin levels disrupt cortisol23:24 Hormone dealbreaker two: xenoestrogens, environmental toxins, and harmful body care products27:47 The importance of eating breakfast and the benefits of walking33:19 Discussion of cholesterol levels and balancing HDL and LDL numbers38:12 The surprising hormone dealbreaker hiding in plain sight: your to-do list and nervous system healthKEY TAKEAWAYS:

Grief is not just born from death. Sometimes, it may also emerge from loss of identity because of childhood trauma, loss of trust because of betrayals, and loss of self-awareness because of toxic relationships. Irene Weinberg is joined by Riana Malia, a board-certified neurosomatic practitioner and creator of the Clear to Create method™. She shares how she found her purpose helping women build the most out of their lives through her own fair share of heartbreak and reinvention. Riana also talks about what it took to reclaim her self-worth, turn the most painful chapter of her life into valuable learning experiences, and clear bitter patterns rooted in grief.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL HEAR ABOUT THINGS LIKE:Why loving again is difficult if you are still attracted to the same people who hurt youHow to reframe your guiltHow to stop telling old stories and come up with a new oneWhy permission have a negative sideHow Riana found the love of her lifeSOME QUESTIONS IRENE ASKS RIANA:Why did you feel the need to spend your early years trying to prove your worth through performance?What did you do to arrive at a place of healing?How do you help women honor their grief without being defined by it?How do you help them become empowered?WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/SjDUTaHmImc?list=PL7judgDzhkAWmfyB5r5WgFD6ahombBvohDiscover What's Really Shaping Your Love, Identity & Self-Worth

Loneliness can cost you up to 20 years of healthy life. More than poor sleep. More than any supplement. And until now, there was no way to measure it.Dr. Axel Schumacher spent 25 years at the forefront of genomics and epigenetic clock research and says your social life is a more powerful longevity biomarker than anything in your bloodwork. In this episode, he walks through the Social Connectivity Value (SCV): a framework he developed to map your social network, identify the relationships that drain your energy, and turn your social health into a number you can actually track. What you'll learn:* Why loneliness can cost 12–20 years of healthy life (men are hit harder than women) and why the “smoking 15 cigarettes a day” statistic doesn't change behavior without a way to measure it* How to build a sociogram using Dunbar's three layers, assign energy values to every person in your life (including the ones dragging you down), and calculate your SCV score* Why looking for a romantic partner through your close friends almost never works, and the “super connector” strategy that statistically gives you access to 150 new people from a single introductionWhat's the link between loneliness, AI companions, and living to 150? We get into all of it.Timestamps* 00:05 – Intro* 01:35 – Meet Dr. Axel Schumacher* 02:21 – From Genomics to Social Science (The Pivot)* 04:28 – How Loneliness Affects Your Health Span* 06:36 – The Loneliness Epidemic & Declining Birth Rates* 07:47 – Why Is Social Health So Hard to Measure?* 09:56 – The Holt-Lunstad Meta-Analysis Explained* 10:47 – Introducing the Social Connectivity Value (SCV)* 12:44 – The Sociogram: Mapping Your Social World* 13:13 –Building Your Sociogram: Mapping Social Connections* 14:54 – The Dunbar Layers: Your 3 Social Circles* 15:22 – The Invisible Load: Identifying Energy-Draining Relationships* 17:03 – The Invisible Load of Toxic Relationships* 20:09 – The Role of Family and Close Connections* 22:38 – What Is Your SCV Score?* 24:51 – How Your Nervous System Responds to Others* 28:08 – Tracking Your Social Life Like a Biohacker* 30:44 – Introverts vs Extroverts & Social Energy* 31:49 – AI Companions & The Future of Connection* 35:31 – Should Your Partner Be Everything?* 37:34 – Weak Ties & Super Connectors* 41:37 – The Mathematical Magic of Super Connectors* 42:57 – Rapid Fire: Social Media — Net Positive or Negative?* 43:51 – SCV vs Epigenetic Clocks: Which Matters More?* 44:59 – The Best City for Human Connection* 47:12 – One Weekly Habit to Protect Your Social HealthABOUT DR. AXEL SCHUMACHER: Longevity scientist and epigenetics researcher with over 25 years of experience, believes the most powerful biomarker for how long you live isn't in your blood it's in your relationships. After decades at the forefront of genomics and biomarker discovery, he now focuses on quantifying human connection, developing the Social Connectivity Value (SCV), a first-of-its-kind framework to measure your social network as a health metric and longevity tool.RESOURCES MENTIONED: * Website: https://www.grailmaster.com* YouTube ‘Inside the Dating Mind': https://bit.ly/4s2U2i4* Axel's Longevity Protocol: https://bit.ly/4qIL0pZ* Sociogram Preprint with DOI: https://doi.org/10.31235/osf.io/m6h58_v1* X: https://x.com/TheGrailmaster* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_grailmaster/* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/draxelschumacher/ABOUT NINA'S NOTES: Nina's Notes explores the intersection of longevity science, neuroscience, and human optimization. Hosted by Nina Patrick, PhD in pharmaceutical sciences and longevity researcher, each episode translates cutting-edge research into actionable insights for living longer, better.CONNECT WITH NINA'S NOTESNewsletter:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninapatrick/Website: https://www.ninapatrick.xyzThanks for reading Nina's Notes! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Nina's Notes at www.ninasnotes.xyz/subscribe

Dr. Christine Cocchiola is back, and this conversation goes deep. Dr. Christine is a coercive control specialist, therapist, TEDx speaker, and author who trained under the godfather of coercive control, Dr. Evan Stark.In this episode, we get into what coercive control actually is: not a form of abuse, but the underpinning of all abuse. That distinction matters more than most people realize, especially inside a family court system that still does not know what to do with it.We talk about the emails that land on Saturday afternoon, right when you have the kids. We talk about why your therapist telling you that you have anxiety might be missing the point entirely. We talk about what it actually looks like when an abuser uses permissiveness to lure your children in, and what you can do about it without losing the connection you have worked so hard to protect.Dr. Christine's children's book, Every Moment of Every Day, is linked in the show notes. You can also find her at coercivecontrolconsulting.com and on Instagram at @drcocchiolacoercivecontrol.Support the show*Please Note: there is a long intro that explains my services. If you do not want to listen, just fast-forward 5 mins past. This intro will be changed in future recordings to be shorter. I am not paid to record this podcast and it is a free offering. Offering my work is the only way I can sustain the podcast*Join the Patreon: https://patreon.com/Youarenotcrazy*New Course*: Unhooked: Map the Cycle of Abuse in your RelationshipWebsite: Emotional Abuse Coach and high-conflictdivorcecoaching.comInstagram: @emotionalabusecoachEmail: jessica@jessicaknightcoaching.com{Substack} Blog About Recovering from Abuse{E-Book} How to Break Up with a Narcissist{Course} Identify Signs of Abuse and Begin to Heal{Free Resource} Canned Responses for Engaging with an Abusive Partner

In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Jennifer Slattery welcomes Christian counselor and author Dr. Kris Reece for a candid conversation about toxic relationships, manipulation, people-pleasing, and the confusion many believers experience when love becomes emotionally draining. Kris shares insights from her personal story and explains why unhealthy relationship patterns can be difficult to recognize, especially for those who have spent years trying to earn approval, keep the peace, or carry responsibility for others. Together, Jennifer and Kris explore what Scripture teaches about guarding our hearts, setting healthy boundaries, and identifying fear-driven motivations. Listeners will learn how to discern the difference between Christ-led love and unhealthy self-sacrifice, find freedom from people-pleasing, and pursue relationships marked by wisdom, peace, and truth. Resource Discussed: Breaking the Narcissist's Grip: A Christian’s Guide to Cutting the Strings of Manipulation, Setting Boundaries That Stick, and Reclaiming Your Life From Takers by Kris Reece (Author) Scriptures Discussed Psalm 34:18 Proverbs 4:23 2 Timothy 3:1–5 2 Corinthians 10:5 1 John 4:18 2 Corinthians 9:7 Matthew 5:37 Galatians 1:10 Psalm 139:23–24 Connect with Dr. Kris Reece: On her website On Instagram On Facebook On YouTube Follow her work on Amazon Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Welcome to Wake Up! with Joni, the podcast where embodied consciousness meets leadership through awareness — awakening lived, not theorized. What happens when heartbreak cracks open the identity you spent a lifetime building? In this deeply honest, funny, and transformational conversation, Joni sits down with Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards — spiritual counselor, speaker, and author of The Venus Flytrap — to explore trauma, toxic relationships, reinvention, emotional healing, and the awakening that can emerge from life's darkest nights. After childhood trauma, psychiatric hospitalization, addiction, multiple marriages, and profound emotional collapse, Steven shares the wisdom he gained through heartbreak, obsession, boundaries, healing, and remembering who he truly is. Together, Joni and Steven unpack: ✨ Why we repeat relationship patterns ✨ The hidden gifts inside heartbreak and emotional pain ✨ Trauma, triggers, and emotional healing ✨ Why "toxic" relationships may actually be teachers ✨ The power of boundaries and vulnerability ✨ Attachment, identity, and freedom ✨ Why we keep running — and what happens when we stop ✨ Remembering who you really are beneath the pain This episode is filled with humor, truth, compassion, and powerful perspective shifts for anyone navigating heartbreak, reinvention, trauma, or personal awakening. Connect with Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards

"  I have experienced the adversary very heavily, and if the adversary exists, then God exists, and I will never allow myself to go back to that side. I am devoted. "00:00 Not Safe03:58 Depression and Losing Interest06:21 Toxic Relationships and Single Mom Life10:59 Divorce, New Meds, and Dark Presence19:06 Peace from Priesthood24:42 Praise To The Man Sign40:31 DevotedServe Clothing code COMEBACK for 15% offhttps://serveclothing.com/If you have a story to share please submit here: https://comebackpodcast.org/submissions/For inquiries contact info.comebackpodcast@gmail.comCome Back Team:Director, Founder, & Host: Ashly StoneEditor: Cara ReedOutreach Manager: Jenna CarlsonAssistant Editor: Britt SmallzeArt Director: Jeremy GarciaProduction Director: Trent Wardwell

Welcome to the wildest episode of the Jungle SquadCast yet! Join Ape Loso and Mister Rad as they dive deep into the music scene, relationship dynamics, and unfiltered stories with special guests Mercedes Ortiz and Rita Mita. This is episode 142 and we are keeping it raw and real for the adult audience. In this session, we explore the hustle behind the music and the personal journeys that drive creativity. From Mercedes Ortiz using heartbreak as a catalyst for her rising R&B career to Rita Mita's brave fresh start in Connecticut, we cover the authentic stories behind the artists. We get into the nitty-gritty of modern dating, debating whether men or women are more vengeful and uncovering the truth behind the fear of commitment. The conversation takes a turn into the world of adulting, where we discuss everything from the best grocery shopping strategies to life-changing home hacks like towel warmers. Later in the episode, Daquan joins the booth to discuss the New Haven scene, arcade tournaments, and the hilarious story of how a professional studio session led to his long-term relationship with Rita. We also break down the latest pop culture news, including the Blueface boxing match, Papoose's shots at 50 Cent, and Jack Harlow's experimental new album. Make sure to stick around until the end for our drop a finger relationship challenge to see which guests are the most toxic! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more unfiltered content from the Jungle Squad. Chapters 0:00 Intro and Adult Audience Disclaimer 2:15 Welcome to Episode 142 5:00 Introducing Mercedes Ortiz and Rita Mita 8:30 Music Origins and Breakup Motivation 12:45 Creative Processes and Music Videos 16:20 Who is More Vengeful Men or Women 21:00 The Truth About Rebounds and Exes 25:30 CT Artist Collaborations and Networking 30:15 Rita's Journey from Rhode Island to CT 35:00 Escaping a Toxic Relationship 40:20 Situationships vs Commitment Fears 45:45 Traditional Gender Roles in 2024 51:15 Adulting Favorites and Grocery Shopping Hacks 56:30 The Importance of Towel Warmers 1:02:00 High School Throwbacks and Backflips 1:08:15 Career Ambition vs Relationship Priority 1:14:30 Balancing Business and Personal Life 1:20:00 Rita's Nail Tech Journey 1:25:40 Daquan Joins the Squad 1:31:00 Arcade Tournaments and New Haven Events 1:36:20 Dealing with Difficult People at Events 1:42:00 The Studio Love Story How Daquan and Rita Met 1:48:15 Blueface vs Chiwoo Boxing Breakdown 1:51:30 Jack Harlow's New Album and AI in Music 1:53:45 Drop a Finger Relationship Game 1:55:21 Outro and Final Thoughts Subscribe to the channel and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode!

Let's Chat!!Boo, bitches!This week we're talking about the moon — but not the cute “moon water in a mason jar” version.No.We're diving into the WEIRD moon stuff:lunar madness, creepy folklore, werewolves, haunted moonlight, dark moon rituals, unsettling dreams, ancient superstitions, and why humanity has been emotionally unstable under celestial objects for thousands of years.Why did ancient people think moonlight could ruin your brain?Why do nurses fear the full moon?Why does every dark forest under moonlight suddenly feel spiritually suspicious?And most importantly:why are humans STILL so weird about the moon?Grab your cocktail, your tarot cards, and your emotional support blackout curtains.Things are about to get lunar.We'll be back!Support the showUntil then, Stay Witchy!!River's Etsy Store:  www.batsandbaublesinc.etsy.comWebsite: www.c3witchypodcast.comMerch: www.c3witchypodcastmerch.comOur wonderful logo is done by:  www.nellamarinadraws.etsy.comIntro and Outro Audio:podcast intro & outro music:Góða Nótt by Alexander NakaradaLink: https://filmmusic.io/song/4754-g-a-n-ttLicense: https://filmmusic.io/standard-liceSound from Zapsplat.com – Witches Cauldrons bubbling

CONNECT WITH CHARLENE On Instagram @mscharlenebyars ([https://www.instagram.com/mscharlenebyars] On YouTube @chosentraining ([https://www.youtube.com/@lovestorieswithcharlenebyars](https://www.youtube.com/@lovestorieswithcharlenebyars)) Work with me HERE ([https://charlenebyars.com/](https://charlenebyars.com/)) CONNECT WITH DR. RACHEL GREENBERG On Instagram @heydrrachel ([https://www.instagram.com/heydrrachel] Website ([https://theworkwithdrrachel.com](https://theworkwithdrrachel.com)) In this deeply healing episode, licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Rachel Greenberg joins Charlene Byars to unpack why so many women keep repeating painful relationship patterns — even when they know better. From anxious attachment and hyper-independence to nervous system conditioning and childhood trauma, Dr. Rachel explains how our early experiences shape the love we accept, the partners we choose, and why healthy relationships can sometimes feel “boring” after chaos. Together, Charlene and Dr. Rachel dive into the psychology behind toxic attraction, emotional healing, feminine energy, self-abandonment, and how women can finally feel safe, secure, and deeply loved in relationships. If you've ever wondered why you keep attracting emotionally unavailable partners, struggle to soften in relationships, or feel stuck in unhealthy dating cycles… this episode is for you. We cover in this episode: 0:00 — Intro & teaser clips 1:18 — Charlene introduces Dr. Rachel Greenberg 3:10 — How Dr. Rachel got into relationship psychology 5:12 — Losing her father & childhood trauma 8:04 — How family dysfunction shapes adult relationships 11:20 — Why most people never learn healthy relationship skills 15:10 — Grace for our parents & inherited trauma 18:42 — Why healing relationships isn't “easy” work 22:08 — Charlene's transformation journey after divorce 25:14 — How relationship patterns actually form 28:33 — Overgiving, people-pleasing & self-abandonment 31:07 — Why women repeat unhealthy relationship cycles 34:12 — Familiar chaos vs. healthy love 37:20 — Why healthy relationships can feel “boring” 40:55 — Hypervigilance, anxiety & nervous system addiction 44:18 — Learning how to feel safe in love 47:10 — How women can start healing relationship trauma 50:22 — “Get your team together” healing advice 53:40 — Meditation, nervous system work & emotional regulation 57:12 — Why women focus on fixing men instead of themselves 1:00:18 — Caregiver patterns & savior complex explained 1:03:10 — Why women stay in unhealthy relationships 1:06:05 — Radical honesty, boundaries & self-worth 1:09:00 — Final thoughts on love, healing & feminine energy If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE it with someone who needs this conversation. Cheers to great love. ❤️

Have you ever felt like losing one person would destroy your entire life… even while the relationship itself was destroying you?In this episode of The BPD Bunch, Xannie, Carys, André, Mo, and Justin talk openly about the intense, chaotic, and often painful relationship patterns that can happen with Borderline Personality Disorder. From abandonment panic and toxic relationship cycles to oversharing, emotional testing, and confusing drama for intimacy, the cast explores what closeness looked like when their BPD symptoms were at their worst.This season, we're discussing BPD through the lens of the Alternative Model of Personality Disorders (AMPD). Under the AMPD, difficulties with intimacy are considered part of impairments in interpersonal functioning, alongside empathy. To meet criteria for BPD in this model, a person must have difficulties in at least two areas of personality functioning: identity, self direction, empathy, or intimacy, along with four or more pathological personality traits, which we'll be discussing in more detail later this season.In this episode:* BPD and intimacy* Fear of abandonment* Toxic relationship dynamics* Push-pull relationships* Emotional dependency* Oversharing and testing people* BPD and friendships* Relationship obsession* Emotional reactivity in relationshipsIf you've ever confused emotional chaos with love, stayed in relationships that were hurting you, or felt terrified of someone pulling away, this episode is for you.In the first two episodes of the season, Dr. Carla Sharp, Dr. Frank Yeomans, and Dr. Alex Stein explain what the AMPD is, how it changes from the current categorical model, and how the BPD diagnosis is changing. In case you missed it, here are the links:Watch part 1 hereWatch part 2 here⸻

After a relationship marked by addiction, abuse, and toxic cycles, Jake and Sierra share how everything changed when they surrendered their lives to Jesus. This episode is a powerful reminder that no relationship is too far gone, and that healing, freedom, and a new foundation are possible. Learn more about Jake and Sierra's ministry: https://www.jakeandsierra.com Learn more about Marriage Intensives: https://xomarriage.com Are you or someone you know suffering from abuse? Please visit: https://www.thehotline.org From Gutters to Glory by Jake & Sierra Bradway 21 Day Inner Healing Journey by Jimmy Evans __________ Submit your questions to Dave & Ashley: http://nakedmarriagepodcast.com Download our FREE 31 Day Marriage Devotional: https://bit.ly/3ZxsLZd We want your marriage to thrive! Learn more at http://xomarriage.com Dave and Ashley Willis spent thirteen years in full-time church ministry before devoting their work entirely toward the global mission of building stronger, Christ-centered marriages. Their marriage-related books, blogs, podcast, speaking events and media resources have reached millions of couples around the world making Dave and Ashley one of the most recognized and trusted couples in marriage ministry. Dave and Ashley partnered with XO Marriage in 2018. XO Marriage is the nation's largest marriage-focused ministry. The Willis family includes four sons and a rescue dog named "Chi Chi." When Dave and Ashley aren't writing and speaking, they love hanging out with their family, watching movies and going on long walks which is also where they develop many of their marriage ministry content ideas. Learn more about Dave & Ashley at daveandashley.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This video sheds light on the common psychological mechanisms that are involved in toxic relationships.

This week on the Lin. Woods Gospel Entertainment Podcast, it's mental health month. And Lin. Woods welcomes Dr. Trina Wilson, PhD — social worker, clinical psychologist, author, and founder of the Life Counseling and Assessment Center in Atlanta for a powerful and life-changing conversation about emotional healing, mental wellness, spirituality and personal growth.Dr. Wilson discusses her impactful new book, The Why Behind The Wave: A Workbook for Managing Triggers, Calming the Nervous System, and Healing Emotional Patterns. Together, they dive deep into:✨ Understanding and managing emotional triggers✨ Why “mental constipation” must be cleared daily to stay emotionally healthy✨ The danger of trying to do life in your own strength✨ Recognizing unhealthy relationship patterns✨ Why repeated broken relationships may require self-reflection and healing✨ Her experiences working with police and mental health supportThis honest and insightful episode offers practical wisdom, healing strategies, and encouragement for anyone seeking emotional freedom, healthier relationships, and peace of mind.

Why do so many people feel guilty for saying no, protecting their peace, or walking away from toxic relationships?In this Q&A episode of Empowered With Gina, Gina Zapanta answers some of the most common questions women ask about boundaries, people pleasing, emotional exhaustion, unhealthy relationships, and self-worth.From struggling to cut people off, to wondering if you're being “too cold,” to trying to unlearn toxic relationship patterns from childhood, this conversation dives into the emotional conditioning that keeps so many people stuck in cycles that no longer serve them.Topics covered in this episode include:How to set boundaries without feeling guiltyThe truth about people pleasingToxic relationship patternsSigns a relationship may be unhealthyHow to leave someone you still loveEmotional chaos and childhood conditioningProtecting your peace without apologizingBuilding healthier relationships with yourself and othersWhy guilt is often a sign of growthHow to stop overexplaining your decisionsIf you've ever felt emotionally drained, responsible for everyone else's feelings, or afraid to choose yourself, this episode will challenge the way you think about boundaries, accountability, and self-respect.Subscribe to Empowered With Gina for weekly conversations about healing, confidence, personal growth, discipline, relationships, and living life intentionally.#Boundaries #ToxicRelationships #PeoplePleasing #SelfWorth #HealthyRelationships #EmpoweredWithGina #PersonalGrowth #Healing #Confidence #MentalHealth

Lo sits down with psychologist, producer, and Harvey Weinstein accuser Kaja Sokola to discuss surviving sexual assault at just 16 years old, the emotional aftermath of trauma, toxic family dynamics, betrayal, resilience, and the complicated reality of loving people who have deeply hurt you. But while this conversation begins in a very raw and heavy place, it also evolves into something unexpectedly warm, funny, insightful, and deeply human.Together, Lo and Kaja talk about healing, identity, relationships, personal growth, and finding lightness even after unimaginable darkness. It's a conversation about survival — but also about hope, humor, self-awareness, and reclaiming your voice.Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault, abuse, trauma, and family conflictDue to ongoing legal matters involving Kaja Sokola and members of her family, a significant portion of this episode had to be removed or edited in order to protect all parties involved and avoid interfering with active litigation. Even with those edits, this is still one of the most vulnerable, honest, emotional, and ultimately uplifting conversations shared on The Lo Life.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

She rebuilt her life with just $25 in the bank… and went on to create millions without sacrificing her peace, family, or values. What if the secret to abundance isn't more hustle — but more alignment? ✨   In this powerful episode of the Balanced, Beautiful & Abundant podcast, Rebecca Whitman sits down with 7-figure entrepreneur, bestselling author, and soulful business mentor Chris Williams for a conversation about building wealth, influence, and freedom in a way that actually feels good.   Chris shares how she went from starting over after divorce to building multiple thriving businesses while raising a family of five — all by rejecting burnout culture and creating success through alignment, feminine leadership, and soulful strategy.   If you're a coach, entrepreneur, or woman who knows she's meant for more but refuses to sacrifice her wellbeing to get there, this episode is for you.   In this episode, we discuss:   ✨ The missing link most coaching certifications never teach ✨ How Chris built a thriving business without paid ads or a massive following ✨ The biggest blocks keeping entrepreneurs stuck below six figures ✨ Why feminine leadership is changing the future of business ✨ How to create financial freedom without burnout ✨ The mindset shifts that unlock authentic abundance ✨ Building a boutique business that supports your life — not consumes it   Connect with Chris Williams:   Website: https://shineabundancenow.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinewilliamscoaching/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.comi/ChristineSahliWilliams

Chronic stress and unhealthy relationships alter your minerals, slow your metabolism, and block your ability to detox. In this episode, I'm chatting with Susan Cachay about the surprising ways emotional trauma shows up on a hair tissue mineral analysis and why so many people stay stuck in burnout and poor detoxification despite doing "all the right things." Susan explains how patterns like calcium shell, sympathetic dominance, and poor eliminator patterns develop as survival adaptations. We talk about why low sodium and potassium reflect adrenal burnout, and how mineral deficiencies make it easier for toxic metals to accumulate in the body.  We also unpack the connection between emotional safety, nervous system regulation, and mineral balance, along with why minerals are one of the most overlooked foundations of longevity and healing. If your detox isn't working or your minerals have stayed stubbornly low, this conversation is for you!   "Our emotions will affect our capacity to detoxify, no matter what we're doing." ~ Susan Cachay   In This Episode: - The biochemical impact of emotional trauma on HTMA and detox - Poor eliminator metal patterns and misconceptions - Calcium shell and bioavailable calcium - Adrenal burnout and mineral imbalance - Toxic metals replacing minerals in the body - How different minerals affect emotional resilience - Healing emotional trauma stored in the body - Interpreting mineral patterns on HTMA results   Products & Resources Mentioned: HTMA Success Practitioner Training Program: Learn more at https://htmasuccess.com/  Bon Charge Red Light Face Mask: Get 15% off sitewide at https://boncharge.com with code WENDY, Tru Energy Skincare Bio Adaptive Hydration Oil: Try the oil and save up to $197 at trytruenergy.com/wendy5  Organifi Collagen: Save 20% with code MYERSDETOX at https://organifi.com/myersdetox  Fresh-Pressed Olive Oil: Try a full-size $39 bottle for just $1 to cover shipping at https://getfreshwendy.com  Heavy Metals Quiz: Check your toxicity score and receive a free video series on how to detox your body at https://heavymetalsquiz.com    About Susan Cachay: Susan Cachay, founder of the HTMA Success Practitioner Training Program, is a certified nutritionist with a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master's in Psychology Counseling. She is one of the most trusted and experienced voices in Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) and Mineral-Nutritional Balancing. With over 25 years in practice, 15+ years mentoring wellness professionals, and a personal health journey that fuels her passion, Susan brings the science, the lived experience, and the heart to help clients reclaim their health and to guide practitioners in creating meaningful, sustainable careers. You can learn more about Susan's work at https://htmasuccess.com/    Disclaimer The Myers Detox Podcast was created and hosted by Dr. Wendy Myers. This podcast is for information purposes only. Statements and views expressed on this podcast are not medical advice. This podcast, including Wendy Myers and the producers, disclaims responsibility for any possible adverse effects from using the information contained herein. The opinions of guests are their own, and this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for statements made by guests. This podcast does not make any representations or warranties about guests' qualifications or credibility. Individuals on this podcast may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to herein. If you think you have a medical problem, consult a licensed physician.

Some relationships do not end. They relocate. They migrate from the visible world into the architecture of the nervous system where they continue operating long after the final phone call, long after the divorce papers, long after the blocked number, long after the social media silence. The body remembers what the conscious mind tries to archive. That becomes the real crisis. Not memory alone, but physiological continuation. The relationship survives as pulse rhythm, anticipatory anxiety, muscular guarding, erotic confusion, emotional hypervigilance, self-monitoring, abandonment rehearsal, shame reflexes, obsessive meaning-making, and psychic fragmentation masquerading as “moving on.” A toxic relationship rarely damages one isolated emotional faculty. It reorganizes perception itself. Safety becomes suspicious. Calm begins to feel emotionally vacant. Chaos acquires erotic voltage. Inconsistency starts registering as passion. Intermittent affection rewires reward circuitry so deeply that unpredictability itself begins to feel intimate. Some people no longer know whether they miss the person or miss the biochemical drama their body became dependent upon while surviving them. That distinction matters. Because many people never actually heal from toxic relationships. They merely become socially functional while privately remaining psychologically occupied territory. Tonight's conversation refuses the reductionistic language of pop-healing culture. We are not discussing scented-candle recovery. Not affirmation addiction. Not algorithmic empowerment quotes pretending to constitute rehabilitation. Not performance vulnerability. Not spiritual cosplay disguised as transcendence. Not “high vibration” denial mechanisms used to bypass grief, rage, humiliation, dependency, jealousy, or terror. Psychic Wound Care demands something far less marketable: confrontation with the internal wreckage intimacy can produce when attachment fuses itself to fear, inconsistency, emotional deprivation, manipulation, erotic trauma, identity erosion, and nervous-system destabilization

Some relationships do not end. They relocate. They migrate from the visible world into the architecture of the nervous system where they continue operating long after the final phone call, long after the divorce papers, long after the blocked number, long after the social media silence. The body remembers what the conscious mind tries to archive. That becomes the real crisis. Not memory alone, but physiological continuation. The relationship survives as pulse rhythm, anticipatory anxiety, muscular guarding, erotic confusion, emotional hypervigilance, self-monitoring, abandonment rehearsal, shame reflexes, obsessive meaning-making, and psychic fragmentation masquerading as “moving on.” A toxic relationship rarely damages one isolated emotional faculty. It reorganizes perception itself. Safety becomes suspicious. Calm begins to feel emotionally vacant. Chaos acquires erotic voltage. Inconsistency starts registering as passion. Intermittent affection rewires reward circuitry so deeply that unpredictability itself begins to feel intimate. Some people no longer know whether they miss the person or miss the biochemical drama their body became dependent upon while surviving them. That distinction matters. Because many people never actually heal from toxic relationships. They merely become socially functional while privately remaining psychologically occupied territory. Tonight's conversation refuses the reductionistic language of pop-healing culture. We are not discussing scented-candle recovery. Not affirmation addiction. Not algorithmic empowerment quotes pretending to constitute rehabilitation. Not performance vulnerability. Not spiritual cosplay disguised as transcendence. Not “high vibration” denial mechanisms used to bypass grief, rage, humiliation, dependency, jealousy, or terror. Psychic Wound Care demands something far less marketable: confrontation with the internal wreckage intimacy can produce when attachment fuses itself to fear, inconsistency, emotional deprivation, manipulation, erotic trauma, identity erosion, and nervous-system destabilization

After spiraling from addiction and losing everything, including his firefighting career, freedom, and custody of his son, Jonnie Parsons, a former Wes Watson student, rebuilt his life through sobriety, faith, and relentless discipline to become a successful businessman and mentor.⁣ ⁣ Jonnie's links - ⁣ https://www.instagram.com/jonnie_parsons_official/⁣ https://www.tiktok.com/@jonnie_parsons_official⁣ https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.parsons.583234?rdid=N76vYHVh3BgLDzQ1&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F154RySfkHCc%2F%3Futm_source%3Dig%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_content%3Dlink_in_bio#theperfectjeanpod ⁣ ⁣ Do you want to be a guest? Fill out the form https://www.insidetruecrimepodcast.com/apply-to-be-a-guest⁣ ⁣ Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/COX⁣ ⁣ Go to GoodRanchers.com and use code INSIDE to get free meat for life, plus $25 off your first order.⁣ ⁣ Send me an email here: insidetruecrime@gmail.com⁣ ⁣ Do you extra clips and behind the scenes content?⁣ Subscribe to my Patreon: https://patreon.com/InsideTrueCrime ⁣ ⁣ Check out my Dark Docs YouTube channel here -⁣ https://www.youtube.com/@DarkDocsMatthewCox⁣ ⁣ Follow me on all socials!⁣ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insidetruecrime/⁣ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@matthewcoxtruecrime⁣ ⁣ ⁣ Do you want a custom painting done by me? Check out my Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/coxpopart⁣ ⁣ Listen to my True Crime Podcasts anywhere: https://anchor.fm/mattcox ⁣ ⁣ Check out my true crime books! ⁣ Shark in the Housing Pool: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0851KBYCF⁣ Bent: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BV4GC7TM⁣ It's Insanity: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KFYXKK8⁣ Devil Exposed: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08TH1WT5G⁣ Devil Exposed (The Abridgment): https://www.amazon.com/dp/1070682438⁣ The Program: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0858W4G3K⁣ Bailout: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bailout-matthew-cox/1142275402⁣ Dude, Where's My Hand-Grenade?: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BXNFHBDF/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1678623676&sr=1-1⁣ ⁣ Checkout my disturbingly twisted satiric novel!⁣ Stranger Danger: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BSWQP3WX⁣ ⁣ If you would like to support me directly, I accept donations here:⁣ Paypal: https://www.paypal.me/MattCox69⁣ Cashapp: $coxcon69⁣ ⁣ CHAPTERS: ⁣ 00:00 - Early Addiction & First Arrests⁣ 08:00 - Toxic Relationships & Hitting Rock Bottom⁣ 14:30 - Finding Faith & Getting Clean at 21⁣ 17:00 - Firefighter Career & Secret Relapse⁣ 23:00 - Losing Control, Family & Custody⁣ 35:00 - Father's Cancer Diagnosis & Death⁣ 41:00 - Arrested, Jailed & Losing His Son⁣ 1:03:00 - Halfway House, Marriage & Starting Over⁣ 1:08:00 - Building a Multi-Million Dollar Business⁣ 1:18:00 - Wes Watson Coaching, Fitness & Life Transformation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can look successful on the outside… and still feel trapped, silenced, and emotionally broken behind closed doors.   This conversation is for the woman who's tired of shrinking herself, questioning her worth, or silently surviving while pretending everything is “fine.”   In this deeply powerful episode of the Balanced, Beautiful & Abundant podcast, Rebecca Whitman sits down with Women's Empowerment Partner, #1 Amazon Best-Selling Author, and founder of Let's Break the Silence, Angeline Constantinou.   After escaping an abusive relationship herself, Angeline transformed her pain into purpose. Today, she helps women reclaim their confidence, find their voice, and rebuild lives rooted in freedom, healing, and self-worth.   In this episode, Rebecca and Angeline discuss:   ✨ The hidden emotional scars of abusive relationships ✨ How women lose their voice — and how to reclaim it ✨ The signs you may be stuck in a toxic dynamic ✨ Healing shame, fear, and self-doubt ✨ Turning pain into a purpose-driven business ✨ The power of community, mentorship, and support ✨ How to rebuild confidence after emotional trauma ✨ Angeline's “A's Framework” for clarity and empowerment ✨ What true feminine empowerment really looks like   This episode is a powerful reminder: your past does not define you… and your voice deserves to be heard.  

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of balancing masculine and feminine energy within ourselves. Host Brianne Davis-Gantt dives into the characteristics of both energies and how they impact our relationships, confidence, and overall life experience. Discover the importance of self-accountability and personal growth as we unpack the journey of healing and the significance of nurturing both sides of our nature. Join us for an insightful discussion that encourages looking inward and fostering a harmonious balance between these essential energies.Chapters:(00:00) The importance of having both masculine and feminine energy is paramount in life(00:32) Welcome to the Secret Life Podcast. After 16 years of recovery, my novels(01:41) Today we are talking about balancing the feminine and masculine energy within yourself(03:28) Everybody carries both masculine and feminine energies, not gender roles(05:03) One of the biggest mistakes people make is expecting their partner to carry the energy(09:12) If you're struggling in your feminine area or your masculine area,

#966: Join Lauryn Bosstick as she sits down with Alyssa Lynch – former actress and creator sharing content at the intersection of wellness, style, and self-trust, focused on building a life that feels good, not just looks good. In this episode, Alyssa opens up about her healing journey – from navigating a traumatic relationship to facing insomnia, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and nervous system dysregulation.  Lauryn and Alyssa discuss relationship patterns, emotional health, and how trauma can manifest physically, along with the impact of environment, overstimulation, and learning when to slow down. She shares the tools that helped her heal – including breathwork, cranial reflexology, journaling, and simplifying her environment; plus her daily routines, beauty rituals, and wellness non-negotiables. As someone in her "figure it out and share it" era, Alyssa brings a candid perspective on self-awareness, resilience, and learning to trust your body.   To Watch the Show click HERE   For Detailed Show Notes visit TheBossticks.com   To connect with Alyssa Lynch click HERE   To connect with Lauryn Bosstick click HERE   To connect with Michael Bosstick click HERE   Read More on The Skinny Confidential HERE   Head to our ShopMy page HERE and LTK page HERE to find all of the products mentioned in each episode.   Get your burning questions featured on the show! Leave the Him & Her Show a voicemail at +1 (512) 537-7194.   This Episode is sponsored by The Skinny Confidential  Shop the limited edition Eden Rock x The Skinny Confidential collab at https://boutique.oetkerhotels.com and at http://shopskinnyconfidential.com. While supplies last.    This episode is sponsored by Just Thrive Get your health in check and save 20% on your first order at https://justthrivehealth.com/SKINNY with code SKINNY.   This episode is sponsored by Paleovalley Head to http://paleovalley.com/skinny for 20% off your first purchase.   This episode is sponsored by Momentum Go to http://momentumshake.com/SKINNY to get your free Welcome Kit and Travel Collection!   This episode is sponsored by Cotton Learn more at http://TheFabricOfOurLives.com.    This episode is sponsored by The American Beverage Association Visit http://goodtoknowfacts.org for more information.   This episode is sponsored by Sam Edelman Visit us at http://samedelman.com to explore everything you need for spring and get 15% off with code skinny15.    This episode is sponsored by Running Point Watch Running Point S2, Now. Only on Netflix. Produced by Dear Media