Surviving Toxic Relationships Podcast with The Matadoras
Surviving Toxic Relationships is a faith-based podcast for women who are ready to break free from toxic, emotionally abusive, or narcissistic relationships and step into healing, clarity, and truth. Hosts Deana and Lizzie are two women whose lives crossed unexpectedly when they were married to the same manipulative, cheating, financially abusive partner. Their combined passion is to provide women with tools to avoid, escape, or heal from toxic relationships. The show features therapists, authors, doctors, and survivors discussing trauma, emotional wounds, spiritual confusion, and rebuilding identity through faith.
Episodes
Episode #121: Modern Dating Red Flags: Love Bombing, Breadcrumbing, Ghostlighting & More
Dating apps have changed how we meet people, but they've also created new opportunities for emotional manipulation, deception, and unhealthy relationship patterns.Love bombing, breadcrumbing, ghostlighting, and digital surveillance are just some of the behaviors women may encounter while navigating modern dating. But how do you recognize these warning signs before becoming emotionally investe
Episode #120: Power Over Force: When Strength Turns Into Control with Garth Haslem
What does real strength look like in a relationship?In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Lizzie and Deana sit down with Garth Haslem, author of Power Over Force and founder of Manalizing, to explore the difference between genuine strength and the need to control.Garth shares why power does not come from being the loudest person in the room, intimidating others, shut
Episode #119: When Toxic Relationships Aren’t Romantic: Friends, Family, Coworkers, and Adult Children
Toxic relationships are not always romantic. Sometimes the person who leaves you feeling controlled, anxious, guilty, or emotionally drained is a friend, parent, sibling, coworker, or even your adult child.In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie and Deana discuss how toxic patterns can appear in everyday relationships. They share personal experiences and explain the warning signs
Episode #118: The Red Flags Were There: How to Stop a Bad Relationship Before It Starts with Dave McLaughlin
Have you ever looked back at a relationship and thought, "The red flags were there. Why didn't I see them?"Sometimes the problem isn't that there were no warning signs. It's that we didn't understand what we were looking at, or we explained those behaviors away once emotions, chemistry, and hope became involved.In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Deana a
Episode #117: What Comes After Survival? Healing, Starting Over & Finding Yourself Again
What happens when you're no longer just trying to survive?For years, your questions may have centered around the relationship: Why am I so confused? Am I the problem? Should I stay? Should I leave?Then, somewhere in the healing process, the question can change:Who am I now?In this solo episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Lizzie shares where she is in her own story at
Episode #116: Why Women Stay Silent in Unhealthy Relationships with Marcelle LeBlanc
What happens when you know something is wrong in your relationship, but you keep convincing yourself that everything is fine?In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Deana sits down with Marcelle LeBlanc, known as the Conversation Architect, to talk about why so many women struggle to identify what they truly want, speak up about what they need, and have the difficult conversations they h
Episode #115: Leaving a Toxic Marriage: How to Prepare for Divorce and Protect Yourself with Diana Romanov
Leaving a toxic relationship is hard enough. Add divorce, finances, children, custody, and the legal system, and it can quickly become overwhelming.In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, we sit down with San Francisco divorce attorney and Certified Family Law Specialist Diana Romanov, creator of Divorce Like a Boss, to talk about what you need to know before filing fo
Episode #114: The Hidden Grief of Loving Someone with Addiction Faith, Loss & Hope with S.E. Tschritter
What happens when the person you trust most is secretly battling addiction?In this deeply moving episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Deana and Lizzie sit down with bestselling author S.E. Tschritter to discuss her heartbreaking yet hope-filled journey after her husband—a pastor—relapsed into alcoholism, was diagnosed with stage-four cancer following a drunk driving accident, and ultimately a
Episode #113: Who Were You Before Him? Rediscovering Your Identity After a Toxic Relationship
Who were you before the relationship changed you?In this honest conversation, Lizzie, Deana, and special guest Jennifer discuss what happens when years of people-pleasing, survival, and emotional abuse slowly erase your sense of identity. Together they share personal stories of rediscovering forgotten dreams, preferences, confidence, and joy while offering hope for anyone wondering who they are af
Episode #112:Can Breathwork Heal Trauma? How to Reset Your Nervous System After Toxic Relationships | Jon Paul Crimi
If you've left a toxic relationship but still feel anxious, emotionally exhausted, or like your nervous system is always on high alert, you're not imagining it.In this powerful conversation, Lizzie and Deana sit down with breathwork pioneer Jon Paul Crimi to explore how trauma can become stored in the body—and why healing isn't always about talking through your past.Jon Paul shares
Episode #111: Addiction, Narcissism & Codependency: Why You Feel Crazy | Featuring Dr. Sarah Michaud
Is your partner struggling with addiction, narcissistic behaviors, or both? How can you tell the difference, and more importantly, how do you begin healing?In this powerful conversation, we welcome Dr. Sarah Michaud, a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of experience specializing in addiction and codependency. Drawing from both her professional expertise and personal recovery journey, D
Episode #110: Behind the Mic: Big Changes, Publishers & Trusting God with What's Next
In this Behind the Mic episode, Lizzie and Deana share a personal update about everything that's been happening behind the scenes.From winning the Selah Award and attending the Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference to meeting with publishers, redesigning their books, expanding into coaching and speaking, and preparing for significant life transitions, this episode offers an honest look at w
Episode #109: From Exploitation to Restoration: A Story of Hope After Sexual Trauma
What happens when childhood sexual trauma silently shapes every relationship, every decision, and every belief about your worth?In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Tiffany Brearton shares her deeply personal story of childhood sexual abuse, shame, exploitation, toxic relationships, and the long road to healing.Tiffany opens up about how trauma affected her self-worth, why so
Episode #108: The Red Flags I Ignored Before Discovering the Truth
What happens when the relationship you've been fighting to save turns out to be something entirely different than you believed?In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Heather Justice shares her personal story of emotional abuse, trauma bonding, narcissistic manipulation, and the shocking discovery that changed everything.After two and a half years of an o
Episode #107: Fired at 63, Millionaire by 69 The Financial Comeback Every Woman Needs to Hear
At 63 years old, David Nassif unexpectedly lost his job after nearly two decades with the same company. Faced with the possibility of financial collapse, he chose to rebuild instead of giving up.Six years later, he had achieved financial freedom and created a simple one-page framework to help others avoid the mistakes he made.In this powerful conversation, David shares practical financial wisdom f
Episode #106: Leaving Financial Abuse: What Women Need to Know Before Starting Over
This conversation originally aired during our 2025 Breaking the Chains… Escaping Abuse telesummit with financial coach Suzanne Skolian, where we discussed one of the most overlooked forms of abuse: financial control.Financial abuse rarely begins with obvious manipulation. Often, it starts slowly through secrecy, monitoring, “allowances,” restricted access to accounts, damaged credit, or being made
Episode #105: Financial Abuse Red Flags Every Women Needs to Spot Before Leaving a Toxic Relationship!
Many women do not realize they are experiencing financial abuse until they try to leave the relationship and suddenly discover they have no access to accounts, damaged credit, overwhelming debt, or no safe financial path forward.In this deeply personal conversation, Lizzie and Deana discuss the hidden red flags of financial abuse inside toxic relationships, including:financial control and surveill
Episode 104: Why You Didn’t See the Red Flags Sooner | Trauma Bonds, Betrayal & Rebuilding Self-Trust
Have you ever looked back on a relationship and wondered… “How did I miss the red flags?”In this deeply honest conversation, Lizzie and Deana unpack the emotional, psychological, and spiritual reasons people stay in toxic relationships longer than they expected. From trauma bonds and manipulation to confusion, shame, love bombing, and slowly adapting to unhealthy patterns, this episode explores wh
Episode #103: The 5 Stages of Betrayal Recovery (Why You Still Feel Stuck & How to Heal) Dr. Debi Silber
Why does betrayal cut so deeply—and why do so many people stay stuck for years, even decades?In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Dr. Debi Silber, founder of the Post Betrayal Transformation Institute, to unpack the science and psychology behind betrayal trauma—and what it really takes to heal.Dr. Debi shares her groundbreaking research across 100,000+ people and reveals:✔ Why betrayal is
Episode #102: I Didn’t Know It Was Abuse… |Therapist Explains Hidden Signs of Toxic Relationships
What if the relationship you thought was “just difficult”… was actually harmful?In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, we sit down with licensed therapist and trauma specialist Zulma Williams, founder of Dragonfly Therapy Services, to unpack the hidden reality of emotional abuse, gaslighting, and toxic relationship cycles.Zulma shares her personal story of su
Episode #101: 5 Signs You’re Not Just in a Hard Season (You May Be in a Harmful Pattern)
Are you going through a difficult season… or is something deeper happening in your relationship?In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, we continue our Love With Eyes Wide Open series by unpacking one of the most confusing and important questions many women face.Sometimes conflict, stress, and outside pressures can make a relationship feel overwhelming. But how do you
Episode #100: Letting Go Without Going Back: Forgiveness, Boundaries & Healing | Eva Marie Everson
Can you forgive someone and still walk away?In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we sit down with award-winning author Eva Marie Everson to unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in relationships: forgiveness vs. reconciliation.Through personal stories, biblical insight, and themes from her upcoming novel Miss Beth Betancourt, Eva shares:Why forgiveness does NOT always m
Episode #99: Brain Hijack in Relationships; Why You Feel Unsafe in Love (Even When You’re Not) | Diane McDowell
In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, we sit down with Diane McDowell, creator of the Brain to Heart Code, to uncover why so many emotionally intelligent women still feel unsafe in love—even in healthy relationships.If you’ve ever: Overreacted and didn’t know why Felt triggered by something small Struggled with people pleasing or weak boundaries Attracted
Episode #98: How Toxic Relationships Make You Feel Unlovable (And How to Heal) | Ashana Kaiulani
In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we sit down with trauma support specialist and reclamation coach Ashana Kaiulani to unpack what toxic relationships really do to your identity, self-worth, and ability to receive love.We dive into:Why toxic relationships make you feel unlovableThe truth about “reactive abuse” and self-blameHow trauma rewires your identity and behaviorsWhy
Episode #97: The Nice Guy Trap | Barb Nangle on Codependency, Boundaries, and Healthy Love
Codependency, toxic relationships, healthy boundaries, and emotional healing are at the center of this powerful conversation with boundaries coach Barb Nangle, founder of Higher Power Coaching and host of Fragmented to Whole.After decades of therapy and personal development, Barb hit a codependent breaking point at age 52. What followed was a life-changing journey through 12-step recovery, where s
Episode #96: Moral Injury Explained | How Trauma, Abuse, and Faith Collide (Dr. Larry Brant)
Moral injury is one of the most misunderstood forms of trauma—and it may explain why so many women leaving toxic or abusive relationships still feel broken, ashamed, or beyond forgiveness.In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we sit down with Navy Chaplain and combat veteran Dr. Larry Brant, who has spent decades helping individuals heal from PTSD, spiritual trauma, and moral
Episode #95: How Toxic Relationships Keep Women Stuck | Nikki Allen on Abuse, Trauma Bonds, and Healing
Why do women stay in toxic relationships? In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Nikki Allen shares her personal story of emotional abuse, physical violence, trauma bonding, identity loss, and the long journey toward healing and self-love.Nikki is the author of Loved You, Hated You, a bold novel inspired by real-life heartbreak. What began as a song became a screenplay and then
Episode #94: When Scripture Is Used to Control | Spiritual Confusion, Marriage, and Discernment
Can scripture be misused in marriage?In this honest and faith-centered conversation, Lizzie and Deana explore a difficult but important topic many Christian women quietly wrestle with: what happens when Bible verses are quoted without context and used to justify control, silence, or emotional harm.This episode discusses spiritual confusion in marriage, the misapplication of scripture, and the diff
Episode #93: When Intimacy Disappears: The Hidden Sign You’re in a Toxic Relationship. Dr Jordin Wiggins
What if your burnout, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, or confusion isn’t a hormone problem… but a coercive control problem?In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we sit down with naturopathic physician, author of The Pink Canary, and host of The Pleasure Principles, Dr. Jordin Wiggins.Jordin works with high-achieving women who appear successful on the outside but are secretly stru
Episode #92: Christian Boundaries vs Walls: Protecting Your Peace in Toxic or Spiritually Confusing Relationships
What if boundaries aren’t rejection… but stewardship?Many Christian women struggle to set boundaries because they fear being unloving, unforgiving, or “not submissive enough.” But boundaries are not walls. They are not punishment. They are protection.In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships and the Love With Eyes Wide Open series, Lizzie and Deana unpack the biblical difference between bou
Episode #91: Before You Hire a Divorce Lawyer… Listen to This | Mediation, Narcissists & High-Conflict Divorce
Divorce doesn’t have to be a battlefield.In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie and Deana sit down with divorce mediator and communication strategist Elizabeth Merrill, founder of Open Space Mediation. Liz shares her personal journey through a high-conflict marriage, emotional abuse, and the moment her children helped her find the courage to leave.Together, they unpack t
Episode #90: What Is Discernment? Faith-Based Relationship Wisdom for Mothers Raising Daughters (And Every Christian Woman)
What is discernment, and how do Christian women recognize red flags while still leading with faith, wisdom, and peace? In this first episode of the Love With Eyes Wide Open podcast series, Lizzie and Deana talk about biblical discernment, Christian relationship advice, guarding your heart, parenting with spiritual wisdom, and how to recognize toxic relationship patterns before heartache begins.Thi
Episode #89: Renewing the Mind After Trauma & Addiction | Faith, Neuroscience, and Freedom with Roseanne Forte
Trauma. Addiction. Toxic relationships. Shame. Mindset renewal.In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we sit down with Rose Ann Forte, international bestselling author and creator of the Choose Freedom program—a faith-forward, neuroscience-backed approach to overcoming life-interfering behaviors.Rose Ann shares her personal journey through a toxic marriage, substance use as cop
Episode #88: Escaping Narcissistic Abuse After 20 Years | Skye Bellarmine on Healing, Faith, and Reclaiming Your Life
Narcissistic abuse. Gaslighting. Coercive control. Legal abuse. In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we sit down with Skye Bellarmine, author of the Breaking Solace trilogy, to talk about surviving 20 years of narcissistic abuse, the moment she realized she wasn’t “crazy,” and the practical steps that helped her leave, heal, and rebuild.Skye shares how narcissists weaponize reputation
Episode #87: Why “Keeping the Peace” Is Destroying Families: Conflict, Boundaries & Self-Advocacy with Jen Fry
Conflict doesn’t mean failure, it means information.In this powerful conversation, Dr. Jen Fry explores why self-advocacy, boundaries, and conflict resolution are essential skills, especially for women navigating toxic relationships, people-pleasing patterns, and emotional burnout.Women are often taught to avoid conflict at all costs, but avoidance comes with a price: anxiety, resentment, loss of
Episode #86: He Rescued a Stranger in a Devastating Car Accident; Then Discovered It Was His Father?
In this powerful story, a teenager’s quick thinking after a devastating car crash leads to a startling discovery—one that forces him to confront years of emotional abuse, silence, and buried truth.In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we sit down with Steve Eichenblatt, attorney and author of Pretend They Are Dead, to explore the lasting impact of childhood trauma and the quiet ways it
Episode #85: When Toxic Families Turn on You
This episode is for anyone who has ever asked: “Why am I still paying the price for someone else’s abuse?”In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, hosts Deana and Lizzie sit down with Joni Woods, a certified life coach, culture strategist, and founder of Journey Coaching, to discuss what happens after you leave a toxic or narcissistic relationship—especially when the family syste
Episode 84: Healing After Bullying & Emotional Abuse: Breaking Limiting Beliefs to Live Free | Brooke DeBoer
In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, with Deana and Lizzie sit down with Brooke DeBoer, author of Living the Free Life and a life coach whose journey from bullying and emotional abuse to healing and freedom is both deeply personal and incredibly inspiring.Brooke shares how years of peer bullying, emotional trauma, unhealthy relationships, and limiting beliefs shaped her self-
Episode 83: When the Truth Comes Out: Private Investigator Ken Childs on Narcissists, Double Lives, and Protecting Yourself!
In this gripping episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with Deana and Lizzie sit down with Ken Childs, a veteran Los Angeles private investigator whose 25-year career includes celebrity cases, criminal investigations, and exposing double lives.Ken opens up about the rise of online deception, emotional cheating, and how narcissists use manipulation and control to hide their true selves. He share
Episode 82: When Faith, Marriage, and Abuse Collide: My Journey Out of Religious and Emotional Control
In this deeply personal episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie shares her full story—one that spans faith, marriage, motherhood, religious abuse, emotional control, and survival.From marrying young with the belief that God had ordained the relationship, to enduring years of infidelity, manipulation, and spiritual coercion, Lizzie opens up about what it means to love God deeply while livi
Episode 81: Write Your Next Chapter: Turning Pain into Purpose Through Publishing with Terry Whalin
Episode 81: If you’ve ever dreamed of writing a book—or wondered if it’s too late—this inspiring episode is for you.In this powerful conversation on Surviving Toxic Relationships, hosts Deana and Lizzie talk with Terry Whalin—author, editor, literary agent, and acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing—about how midlife can become the perfect time to tell your story, share your testimony, an
Podcast Trailer: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras (aka Deana & Lizzie)
Welcome to Surviving Toxic Relationships, a faith-based podcast created for women who are healing, rebuilding, and reclaiming their voice after emotional and relational abuse.Hosted by Lizzie and Deana—two women whose lives unexpectedly intersected through a shared past—this podcast offers honest conversations about manipulation, gaslighting, betrayal, trauma bonding, and the long road to recovery
Episode 80: When the Holidays Don’t Feel the Same: Healing, Grief & Finding Peace After Toxic Relationships
In this deeply personal episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie opens up about how the holidays can feel different—lonelier, quieter, or unexpectedly emotional—especially after walking through heartbreak, divorce, or the loss of family traditions.Midlife brings new realities: children growing up, parents passing on, relationships ending, and identities shifting. What once made the season
Episode 79: Holiday Self-Care for Women Who Are Emotionally Exhausted
The holidays can intensify toxic family dynamics, emotional labor, grief, and high-conflict co-parenting. For many women, this season brings pressure to perform, suppress pain, and hold everything together.In this episode, Lizzie and Deana talk honestly about why the holidays feel so heavy for women navigating emotionally unsafe relationships and life transitions. We discuss guilt, boundaries, car
Episode #78: Adapt & Advance! Faith That Survives the Fire! Dr. Wole Babatunde on Turning Pain into Purpose
What if the greatest pain in your life was also the beginning of your purpose?In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, hosts Deana and Lizzie welcome Dr. Wole (Oluwole) Babatunde—a physician, psychiatrist, author, and faith leader whose extraordinary story proves that resilience and divine purpose can rise from even the darkest valleys.In this deeply moving episode of Surviving T
Episode #77: I Put My Fibromyalgia Into Remission!
What happens when the pain and exhaustion isn’t “in your head” — but everyone tells you it is?In this powerful and validating episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie and Deana talk with Tami Stackelhouse, founder of the International Fibromyalgia Coaching Institute and host of The Fibromyalgia Podcast.Tami shares her deeply personal journey from being dismissed and misdiagnosed to finally
Episode #76: Fear-Based Leaders: How to Spot Them and Stop Them from Breaking You
Have you ever worked for a fear-based leader, a toxic bully boss, or someone in authority who used intimidation and harassment instead of emotional maturity? In today’s eye-opening conversation, Kate Lowry, CEO Coach and Author of "Unbreakable: How to Survive Under Fear Based Leaders" breaks down why so many leaders behave more like emotionally reactive children than competent adults —
Episode #75: Feeling Broken After Loss? Listen to This!
After a 25-year marriage ended suddenly, emotional-wellbeing expert and artist Elizabeth Jane turned heartbreak into a mission: to help others climb out of the quicksand of grief, reclaim self-worth, and rebuild a full life. In this episode Elizabeth shares practical, bite-sized tools that helped her move from shock → survival → reinvention — plus mindset shifts every woman leaving a long relation
Episode #74: Exposing Serial Predators, How Technology is Helping Survivors Connect & Heal
In this powerful episode, Lizzie and Deana speak with Tracy DeTomasi, CEO of Callisto, a groundbreaking nonprofit using secure technology to connect survivors of serial predators—without forcing them to go public.Tracy shares how the Callisto Vault platform empowers survivors to safely report, match with others harmed by the same perpetrator, and make informed choices about next steps. The convers
Episode #73: The "Now What" of Leaving a Toxic Relationship
In this raw & honest episode, Lizzie opens up about her courageous journey of leaving a toxic relationship and rebuilding her life from the ground up. She shares how healing isn't a single dramatic moment, it's a process that unfolds in stages, with every step leading toward self-discovery and empowerment. From surviving emotional turmoil to stepping into a season of reinvention, Liz
Episode #72: From Toxic Patterns to Self Love; Jonathan Aslay on Healing After Loss
In this deeply moving and insightful episode, relationship and self-love coach Jonathan Aslay shares his powerful journey of healing after the tragic loss of his son. Through vulnerability and wisdom, Jonathan explores how grief can become a catalyst for growth, why self-worth is non-negotiable in midlife, and how to build meaningful, lasting relationships rooted in authenticity—not just chemistry
Episode #71: Sick, Stuck, and Still Worthy: Deborah Weed’s Powerful Midlife Comeback
In this inspiring episode, Deborah Weed opens up about her powerful transformation—from a high-achieving corporate career to becoming the founder of the Self-Worth Initiative and the Quills Up Movement. 💫After a life-altering health crisis, Deborah began to reframe her understanding of value, moving from external validation to embracing her intrinsic worth. She shares how a simple 1943 copper penn
Episode #70: How to Stop Being Codependent; Self Esteem, Boundaries, and Inner Healing
In this powerful episode, Lizzie and Deana dive deep into the roots of codependency, how it’s shaped by childhood trauma, and why it often leads to low self-esteem and toxic relationship patterns. Through raw, relatable stories and hard-earned insights, they unpack how codependency shows up in everyday life — from constantly putting others first to struggling with setting boundaries.You’ll learn w
Episode #69: Am I The Toxic One in the Relationship??
Am I the Toxic One? | Surviving Toxic Relationships with Lizzie & DeanaAre you the toxic one... and don’t even know it?In this eye-opening episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie and Deana turn the mirror inward to explore a question many avoid: Could we be contributing to the toxicity in our relationships?Together, they unpack the subtle but critical differences between toxic behavi
Episode #68: Leaving A Narcissist; Why It's So Hard, And How to Stay Free
In this powerful and compassionate episode, Lizzie and Deana dive deep into the emotional complexities of leaving toxic relationships. They explore the internal battles many face—fear, guilt, and trauma bonds—and how these emotions can make leaving feel even more difficult than staying.Through real talk and heartfelt insights, they shed light on:Why the fear of the unknown often feels safer than t
Episode #67: Strength of Scars: Surviving Childhood Trauma, Adoption, Abuse & Finding God
In this deeply moving episode, Avonley Lightstone, Author of "Strength of Scars", opens up about her powerful journey from unimaginable loss to unshakable faith. After losing her mother at 3 years old in a tragic fire and enduring years of emotional and physical abuse in her adoptive home, Avonley shares how finding God became a turning point in her path to healing.Through candid convers
Episode #66: From Peanuts to Purpose; Hilary Powers on Recovery, Faith & Forgiveness
In this powerful episode, Hillary Powers, the voice of Sally in the Peanuts cartoons, shares her remarkable journey from childhood trauma and addiction to over 40 years of sobriety, healing, and faith. With raw honesty and deep insight, Hillary reflects on her chaotic upbringing, the path to recovery, and how faith, surrender, and community helped her reclaim her life. She dives into the importanc
Episode #65: How a DV Survivor Helps Kids Regulate Big Feelings: Jacintha Field on Healing, Play, & Co-Parenting
🧠 In this heartfelt episode, Lizzie and Deana sit down with Jacintha Field—family and child counselor, art therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids. Jacintha shares her inspiring personal journey from surviving domestic violence to empowering families through emotional healing.🌱 Learn how she’s on a mission to help 100,000 children by 2027, and discover powerful tools to help your child navigate
Episode #64: From Widow to Warrior: Julie Barth on Surviving Grief, Narcissistic Abuse & Rebuilding Life
In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Lizzie and Deana sit down with Julie Barth—trauma survivor, author, special needs mom, and passionate financial advocate for women—to share her extraordinary journey of survival, resilience, and transformation.From losing her husband to cancer, to raising a special needs child on her own, to surviving a narcissistically abusive second marriage, Julie has
Episode #63: Untangling Complex Shame: A Journey to Healing with Dr. Zoe Shaw
In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Dr. Zoe dives into the often misunderstood world of complex shame—how it silently shapes our relationships, distorts our identity, and hinders our ability to experience healthy love.Sharing her own transformative journey, Dr. Zoe reveals the hidden patterns of shame, including codependency, hiding behaviors, and fear of vulnerability, and offers p
Episode #62: He Controlled Everything: My 29-Year Marriage to a Covert Narcissist
What happens when the person you vowed to spend your life with turns out to be living a double life — not in secret affairs, but in hidden abuse?In this eye-opening episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we’re joined by Mia Hanks — a brave survivor who spent 29 years married to a covert narcissist. Behind closed doors, Mia endured years of emotional manipulation and financial control, slowly lo
Episode #61: Samia Come Forth: From Rock Bottom to Purpose-Driven Powerhouse
What happens when pain meets purpose?Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Samia Young, a powerhouse of resilience, faith, and redemption. Once a foster youth who endured unspeakable abuse, a toxic marriage, and time in jail, Samia’s life seemed destined for tragedy. But her story didn't end there.In this raw and inspiring episode, Samia opens up about the moment she encountered the
Episode #60: Why Wives Feel Invisible At Home; With Dr. Becky Whetstone
In this candid and powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Lizzie and Deana are joined by therapist and author Dr. Becky Whetstone to unpack the real dynamics behind relationship breakdowns, nagging, resentment, and emotional maturity. Together, they explore the five stages of a deteriorating marriage, the misunderstood "nagging wife" stereotype, and how poo
Episode #59: When the Affair Goes Viral; But You're the One Left Bleeding
In this powerful Talk It Out Tuesday episode, Lizzie and Deana talk openly about the emotional toll of public betrayal, using the viral Andy Byron affair as a lens to explore the very personal pain of infidelity. Together, they unpack their own experiences, share practical advice for those feeling triggered, and challenge harmful myths about why people cheat.Whether you've been betrayed, re-
Episode #58: Navigating High Conflict Divorces: Insights from Lisa Johnson
In this conversation, Lizzie and Deana speak with Lisa Johnson, a high conflict divorce strategist and advocate, about the complexities of navigating high conflict divorces and legal abuse. Lisa shares her personal journey from being a victim to becoming an advocate for others, emphasizing the importance of courtroom etiquette, emotional support, and strategic oversight in legal battles. The discu
Episode #57: Gaslighting, Blame Shifting & Minimizing; 3 Toxic Tactics That Keep You Stuck
In this episode, Lizzie and Deana delve into the complexities of manipulation, focusing on gaslighting, blame shifting, and minimizing. They share personal stories and insights on how these tactics can distort reality and erode emotional safety. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing red flags in relationships and offers practical tips for recovery and healthy communication.Take
Episode #56: When the Marriage Ends in Midlife: Healing After Betrayal & Financial Devastation
On the first episode of "Talk It Out Tuesdays", Lizzie and Deana discuss the phenomenon of "gray divorce", particularly focusing on the emotional and financial impacts of divorce for individuals over 50. They share personal experiences of navigating divorce in midlife, the challenges of dating, and the importance of personal growth and healing. The conversation emphasizes the n
Episode #55: Spotting Manipulation in Conversations; How to Trust Your Gut Again
In this conversation, Lizzie and Deana explore the complexities of manipulation within faith-based relationships, particularly focusing on how women of faith may be more susceptible to manipulative behaviors. They discuss various manipulation tactics, including passive-aggressive humor, emotional guilt, and triangulation, while emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and healthy communication
Episode #54: Breaking Free; A Story of Resilience
In this conversation, three time best selling author, Azadeh Atzberger shares her powerful journey from a troubled childhood marked by bullying and substance abuse to reclaiming her life after escaping an extremely toxic relationship. She discusses the challenges she faced, including addiction, domestic violence, and the struggle to find her voice. Through resilience and support, Azadeh found rec
Episode #53: I Think I Want Out; The 5 Stages of Marital Breakdown
In this conversation, Dr. Becky Whetstone, LMFT discusses the complexities of marriage, particularly focusing on the challenges faced when one partner wants to end the marriage. Becky shares insights from her book, "I Think I Want Out, The 5 Stages of Marital Breakdown" which addresses the five stages of marital deterioration and the lack of resources available for couples in crisis. Th
Episode #52; Forgiveness vs Reconciliation: Why You Can Let Go Without Going Back
In this episode, Lizzie and Deana explore the critical distinction between forgiveness and reconciliation, emphasizing that forgiveness is a personal choice that can occur independently of the other party's actions. They discuss the importance of healing from emotional trauma, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals. The con
Episode #51: Healing From Narcissistic Abuse: Red Flags, Boundaries, and Reclaiming Self Worth
SummaryIn this conversation, Katherine Miura, a licensed marriage and family therapist, shares her insights on navigating narcissistic abuse. She defines narcissistic abuse as the construction of a false perception of reality by the abuser to control the victim. Katherine emphasizes the strength of the victim, the importance of recognizing the illusion created by narcissists, and the need for self
Episode #50: Emotional Healing & Nervous System Reset After Abuse
In this conversation, Mandy Schulis, a narrative coach and nervous system expert, shares her insights on healing after toxic relationships. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, patience, and understanding the nervous system's role in emotional recovery. Mandy provides practical tools for women to navigate their healing journey, including breathing techniques and the significance
Episode #49: Toxic Dating & Red Flags: An LMFT's Survival Guide
In this conversation, Carla Litto, a marriage and family therapist, discusses the signs of narcissism in romantic relationships. She explains how narcissists often present themselves charmingly at first, but their true nature reveals itself over time. The discussion covers the importance of recognizing red flags, the dynamics of love bombing, and strategies for approaching loved ones who may be in
Episode #48: The Matadoras Origin Story; 2 Ex Wives Unveil A Narcissists Double Life & Protect The Next Victim
In this episode of the Matadoras No More Bull podcast, Lizzie and Deana share their personal journeys of escaping toxic relationships and the importance of healing. They discuss the challenges of recognizing abusive patterns, the impact of deception, and the necessity of building a supportive community for women facing similar struggles. Their mission is to empower others to break free from the cy
Episode #47: Do You Have Healthy Boundaries? 6 Keys To Building Healthy Boundaries
In this brief episode, Deana and Lizzie discuss the importance of setting boundaries for personal well-being and empowerment. They explore the signs of unhealthy boundaries, the steps to becoming a 'boundary boss', and the significance of self-care in maintaining healthy relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear communication, self-reflection, and consistency in bound
Episode #46; Breaking The Generational Cycle of Trauma; Tina's Journey of Forgiveness and Self Love
In this conversation, Tina shares her profound journey from a traumatic childhood marked by abuse and a cult-like upbringing to a path of healing and self-discovery. She discusses the impact of generational trauma, the challenges of recognizing and breaking free from narcissistic relationships, and the importance of forgiveness and self-love. Tina emphasizes the necessity of inner work and the too
Episode #45; Narcissistic Abuse: How to Recover & Heal (Strategies for Survivors) with Katherine Miura LMFT
In this conversation, Katherine Miura, an author and marriage and family therapist, shares her personal journey of overcoming narcissistic abuse and her mission to help others heal from similar experiences. She discusses the complexities of narcissistic relationships, the importance of understanding trauma bonds, and the role of inner child work in recovery. Katherine also emphasizes the need for
Episode #44: The Red Flags Of Suicide Manipulation; Surviving Manipulation Abuse
In this episode, The Matadoras delve into the complex and often misunderstood topic of emotional abuse through suicide manipulation. They share personal stories, discuss the red flags of manipulation, and provide practical advice on how to respond to threats of suicide. The conversation emphasizes the importance of awareness, setting boundaries, and seeking help, while also acknowledging the emoti
Episode #43: You Can't Make This Stuff Up! Laughing Through The Narcissistic Nightmare
In this engaging conversation, the Matadoras and special guest Jennifer, share their personal stories of navigating relationships with narcissistic individuals. They explore the complexities of narcissistic personalities, recount their experiences, and discuss the healing process that follows. Through humor and shared understanding, they aim to empower others who may be facing similar challenges,
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