In this episode, I share a clip from my interview on Valerie Greene’s podcast, Soul Shaking Love, where we explore two of the biggest questions people ask about narcissistic relationships: how to recognize if your partner is on the narcissistic spectrum, and why these relationships are so painfully hard to break free from. We get into the difference between grandiose and vulnerable narcissists, the fantasy that keeps people stuck,...

In this conversation, I sit down with Rebecca Zung, an expert in negotiating with narcissists. We discuss the complexities of negotiation when dealing with individuals who exhibit narcissistic traits. She emphasizes the importance of emotional regulation, understanding the dynamics of narcissistic behavior, and the need for strategic documentation to leverage situations effectively. The discussion also introduces the SLAY method, w...

In this episode of the Narcissism Decoder, Dr. Anthony Mazzella interviews Dr. Debi, a leading expert in betrayal recovery. They explore the unique trauma of betrayal, its profound impact on trust and identity, and the healing process. Dr. Debi shares her groundbreaking research findings, including the five stages of healing from betrayal and the concept of post-betrayal transformation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of...

In this episode, we explore the toxic power struggles inherent in vulnerable narcissism, particularly through the lens of parenting dynamics. We examine how dependency, control, and the cycle of shame play out in parent-child relationships. This episode uncovers the deep emotional conflicts that shape vulnerable narcissism and offers insights into therapeutic approaches to address these dynamics. The conversation emphasizes the imp...

In this episode, Dr. Anthony Mazzella and Jin explore the cult-like dynamics of narcissistic relationships and the profound psychological toll they take on victims. They discuss how survivors often struggle with a loss of identity, the lingering internalized critical voice of the narcissist, and the complex grieving process that follows. Jin sheds light on the role of trauma bonding in keeping victims trapped and outlines essential...

In this episode, I sit down with Jin from Narc Troopers—a writer, educator, podcaster, and narcissistic abuse recovery facilitator— to explore the psychological dynamics that keep people stuck in toxic narcissistic relationships and why breaking free can feel impossible. We discuss the fantasy that keeps people trapped, the impact of early childhood development, and Shelly Bach’s concept of pathological mourning. We also touch on t...

This episode is Part 2 of my conversation on Dimming the Gaslight with hosts Mac and Phil, where we dive even deeper into the complexities of narcissism. We explore the motivations behind narcissistic behavior, the struggle with forgiveness, and how therapy can facilitate change. We also discuss the emotional push-pull in relationships with narcissists, the role of brain chemistry, and the tough decision of when to walk away. Under...

In this episode, we explore the insidious impact of covert narcissism on parent-child relationships with expert Renee Swanson. We discuss how emotional manipulation can masquerade as love, creating lasting confusion and self-doubt. We examine how these patterns shape adult relationships and the challenges of breaking free. Finally, we highlight the power of connection over correction in parenting and share strategies for healing an...

 I’m really excited to share some big news with you—this Friday, March 14th, at 7 p.m. EST, I’ll be going LIVE on YouTube for a special podcast recording with Lisa Taylor Austin! We'll explore why people stay in relationships with narcissistic partners despite clear emotional turmoil. The conversation will dive into the compelling fantasy that keeps people bound to these relationships—the shared fantasy or "magical union&...

This episode is Part 1 of my conversation on Dimming the Gaslight, where I was a guest with hosts Mac and Phil. They asked some fascinating questions as we explored various aspects of narcissism—its emotionality, neediness, and ties to codependency. We also discussed whether narcissists can change, how pain can drive transformation, and the complexities of manipulation, apologies and accountability in relationships.

Dimming The ...

In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, I’m joined once again by Josh as we continue our conversation on the challenges of maintaining healthy relationships post-divorce. Josh shares further insights into effective co-parenting strategies and emphasizes the distinction between apologies and amends, highlighting how true amends involve actionable steps to correct past wrongs rather than just an expression of intention. We explore...

In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, I’m joined by Josh, who shares his personal journey through divorce and co-parenting. Together, we explore the emotional complexities of divorce, the impact of codependency on relationships, and the importance of self-reflection and personal growth in choosing a healthier path forward. Josh opens up about the challenges of maintaining healthy relationships post-divorce and offers valuable ...

This is part two of my interview with Darren, a therapist and coach. In this episode, we dive deeper into the complexities of relationships involving narcissistic individuals. Together, we explore therapeutic approaches to understanding and managing narcissism, emphasizing the spectrum of narcissistic traits and the potential for building healthy self-esteem. We discuss the importance of developing intimacy and relationship skills....

In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, I’m joined by Darren, a therapist and coach. Together, we dive into the complexities of relationships involving narcissistic individuals. Darren shares his personal journey of recognizing narcissism within his family and relationships, particularly with his father. We explore the challenges of navigating relationships with narcissists, the role of denial, and the importance of emotional vu...

In part two of the conversation, Shannon and I continue exploring the complexities of managing relationships with adult children who exhibit narcissistic tendencies. Shannon emphasizes the importance of first fostering a healthy relationship with oneself as a foundation for setting effective boundaries. We discuss the importance of self-regulation and understanding one's own emotional state before addressing conflicts. The con...

In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, I’m joined by therapist, author and coach Shannon. Together we explore the complexities of relationships between parents and their adult children, particularly focusing on narcissistic traits and toxic dynamics. We discuss how enabling behaviors and lack of boundaries contribute to dysfunctional interactions, and emphasize the importance of both parties taking responsibility for their own ...

In this episode, we delve deeper into narcissism and explore the intricate dynamics of vulnerable and grandiose self-states, focusing on Step 2: Containment and Relating. Central to this discussion is the concept of "reenactment," which highlights the importance of clarifying a person’s experience as it unfolds “in the moment.” This step emphasizes staying present with self and other representations, particularly when nav...

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of vulnerable narcissism, exploring its characteristics, emotional needs, and the importance of empathy and containment in fostering healthier relationships. Emphasis is on the concept of containment as a crucial strategy for emotional regulation and support. The discussion highlights practical approaches to understanding and managing the emotional demands of individuals exhibiting vu...

In this episode of The Narcissism Decoder, Lisa Taylor-Austin and I explore the complexities of vulnerable narcissism, with a focus on therapeutic approaches and practical ways to relate to a vulnerable narcissist in your life. We delve into the importance of containment, discussing two key aspects essential for fostering emotional safety and understanding. Our conversation highlights strategies for engaging with vulnerable narciss...