In this powerful episode of Women Mastering Midlife, Victoria Byrd sits down with Dr. Nadine Macaluso; licensed marriage and family therapist, trauma bonding and narcissistic abuse expert, and author of the memoir Run Like Hell: A Therapist’s Guide to Recognizing, Escaping, and Healing from Trauma Bonds. You may recognize her as the former wife of the infamous “Wolf of Wall Street,” but today, Nadine is rewriting the narrative by helping women recognize the red flags of coercive control, reclaim their sense of self, and heal from emotional trauma.
Together, Victoria and Nadine explore:
What trauma bonding really is and how it differs from general relationship toxicity
The subtle signs of narcissistic abuse and coercive control
Why smart, accomplished women often fall into these relationships
The healing process: rebuilding self-trust, confidence, and identity
Why people-pleasing and boundary-blurring are red flags we shouldn’t ignore
How women can create emotionally safe, calm relationships—especially in midlife
Dr. Nadine also shares her journey from fashion designer to psychotherapist, her reflections on the Wolf of Wall Street movie, and why writing Run Like Hell was more than a memoir; it was a roadmap to healing for women worldwide. She discusses the importance of therapy, emotional intelligence in midlife, and her thriving Surthriver™️ Community that offers affordable, expert-led healing support.
Whether you’re recovering from a trauma bond, exploring a new relationship in midlife, or learning to trust yourself again, this episode offers hope, validation, and a clear path forward.
🔗 Resources Mentioned:
💻 Join the Surthriver Community: Dr. Nadine’s online support group for healing and empowerment
✅ Download the Pathological Lover Checklist at Dr. Nadine's website
About Dr. Nadine Macaluso: Dr. Nadine Macaluso is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a doctorate in somatic psychotherapy. Drawing from her own lived experience and clinical expertise, she specializes in helping women recognize trauma bonds, escape narcissistic abuse, and rebuild safe and empowered lives. She is the author of Run Like Hell and the founder of the Surthriver™ Community.
📲 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:
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Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com
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Disclaimer
This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.
Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.
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