Let go of problematic friendships that drain your energy, create manipulation, involve power struggles or put you at risk. In this solo episode, host Janeen Ellsworth reveals a long-held secret she shared with a childhood friend, which stemmed from an innocent prank but could've become deadly; a secret that came about from an unhealthy pattern of toxicity, and may have contributed to more toxic friendships later in life. If you've built a friendship around toxic behavior or intense highs and lows, it may be an indicator of dysfunction, which could mean it's time to pull back from that friendship and learn what healthy dynamics are. The flip side: It's okay to have friendships that are uneventful, even-keeled and reliable, that don't drain you or make you uncomfortable. It's just hard to spot those kinds of healthy connections when you've learned to bond with people through fear, adrenaline rushes, being naughty and keeping secrets. As we settle into autumn and watch the leaves fall from the trees, consider this a sign from the universe to let go of friendships that no longer serve your highest good. Learn more at www.women-friends.com. And leave a voice memo for Women Friends here, to be played on a future show, answering this week's question: What is the most fun thing you've ever done with a friend?
