All Episodes

July 8, 2025 85 mins

Is everyone suddenly a narcissist, or are we misusing the term? Dr. Sterlin Mosley, Professor of Human Relations and author of The Narcissist in You and Everyone Else, dives deep into the misunderstood realms of narcissism and empathy. Through an eye-opening conversation, Sterlin reveals why our culture casually labels selfish behaviors as narcissistic, and why real narcissism goes much deeper, intertwining with empathy. Or rather, the lack of it.

In our conversation, you’ll discover:

  1. Why modern society sees NARCISSISM as a PERSONALITY TYPE instead of a nuanced SPECTRUM of behaviors.
  2. How narcissistic traits form EMOTIONAL ARMOR protecting a hidden, VULNERABLE core.
  3. The critical difference between EMPATHY and SYMPATHY, including four surprising types of empathy you never knew existed.
  4. Proven STRATEGIES for spotting and dealing with narcissists both at home and at work.
  5. How EMPATHY can be developed, and why COGNITIVE EMPATHY may be the key to healthier relationships.

Thank you for listening.

 

EPISODE LINKS:

Buy Center of the Universe (Book)

Buy The Narcissist in You and Everyone Else (Book)

 

By using these links, we earn commission from qualifying purchases.

 

SHOW LINKS:

Support the Show on: Patreon

Listen to the Podcast on: YouTube | Apple | Spotify

Follow us on: X | Reddit | Instagram | LinkedIn

 

OUTLINE:

00:00 Introduction

01:10 Who is Sterlin Mosley?

04:41 The Narcissist Label in Modern Society

08:37 Breaking Down the 27 Types of Narcissists

12:24 How to Identify a Narcissist: Common Misunderstandings

20:11 Strategies for Dealing with Different Narcissists

27:57 Do Narcissists Know They’re Narcissists?

35:49 Healthy Narcissism Explained

39:54 Is Narcissism a Choice?

47:47 Can Narcissism Be Cured or Managed?

52:53 Empathy vs. Sympathy: Clarifying the Differences

58:24 Narcissism, Envy, and Power Dynamics

01:04:11 Understanding Empathy: Definitions and Nuances

01:10:20 Cognitive Empathy and Human Connection

01:19:39 Practical Steps to Develop Your Empathy

01:24:24 Final Thoughts & Outro

 

STERLIN MOSLEY LINKS:

Sterlin's LinkedIn

Sterlin's Instagram

 

CONTACT LINKS:

Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.

 

This episode has been co-produced by Kate van Leeuwen.

 

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Stuff You Should Know
Crime Junkie

Crime Junkie

Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies!

The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club

The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.