Shows
Real Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredIt’s Not That He Doesn’t Know It’s That He Doesn’t Care.. | Ep. 011There's a kind of abuse happening in relationships that doesn't involve broken dishes or broken bones, but it's just as damaging. It's the slow destruction of your sense of self through weaponized incompetence, emotional labor dumping, and the constant message that you should just accept less because "that's how men are."This week, I sit down with Abby Eckel, online content creator known for challenging gender norms and traditional relationship stereotypes. They dive deep into how we're conditioned from childhood to normalize harmful relationship dynamics - from the "boys will be boys" mentality to the expectation that...2025-07-2939 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredWhy You Believed His Lies: The Psychology of Manipulation and Abuse | Ep 010Somebody can look you dead in the eye, say everything that you've been dying to hear, and they can still be lying to you. The science behind deception in abusive relationships reveals how manipulators weaponize psychology to systematically break down their victims. This is the podcast they don’t want you listening to.This week, I'm joined by Dr. Abbie Maroño, a behavioral expert with a PhD in psychology who trains the Secret Service and FBI on deception, body language, and influence. We explore the disturbing world of psychological manipulation and how abusers use soph...2025-07-2249 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredIf My Own Children Can't Forgive Me, How Dare I Forgive Myself? | Episode 009The hardest truth about parental accountability isn't admitting you were wrong- it's living with the consequences when your own children can't trust you enough to let you back in. This is the podcast your toxic Mom doesn't want you to listen to.This week, I sit down with Crystal Allon, a mother, content creator, and recovering alcoholic who is estranged from two of her adult children. Together, we explore what real accountability looks like when your kids go no contact, not the defensive "I did my best" narrative, but the raw, honest reckoning with how your own u...2025-07-1536 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredHis Voice Sounded Familiar — Because It Was | Ep. 008The voice of your abuser doesn't just sound familiar—it echoes the voices that shaped you long before you ever met them.This week, I sit down with Trauma Therapist, Logan Cooper, to explore the 7 most common childhood environments that unknowingly program us to accept abuse later in life. Together, we break down how emotionally invalidating homes, conditional love, narcissistic parenting, authoritarian control, chaotic households, family secrets, and enmeshment create the perfect storm for trauma bond vulnerability. Logan shares her expertise on how these early experiences teach us to distrust our own reality, chase unavailable love, and mi...2025-07-0837 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredMale Fragility: Why Accountability Feels Like an Attack | Ep. 007Male fragility isn't weakness - it's emotional inflexibility that becomes a weapon to avoid accountability. When men explode over basic feedback, it's not about your tone or timing.This week, I'm joined by anti-misogyny educator Brent MacLerie to unpack why so many men interpret accountability as an attack. We dive into the "honesty trap" that keeps women walking on eggshells, explore how fragility becomes a control tactic, and discuss the historical roots of male entitlement in relationships. Brent shares his insights on distinguishing between genuine emotional immaturity and weaponized fragility, plus the one key indicator that shows...2025-07-0140 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredYou Can't Love Him Into Healing | Why Women Stay With Abusive Men | Ep. 006This episode is going to hit different. I'm joined by therapist and domestic violence survivor Aishia Grevenberg to destroy the most dangerous myth keeping women trapped: that your love can heal an abusive man.What You'll Learn:• Why high-functioning, successful women become targets for abusive men• The childhood conditioning that teaches us to "perform" for love• How abusers weaponize therapy and self-improvement narratives to keep you hooked• Why individual therapy doesn't work for abusers (it's not a communication problem - it's a control problem)• The...2025-06-2439 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredWhy Therapy Can't Fix Abusive Men | The Truth About Misogyny vs Mental Health | Ep. 005This episode is going to challenge everything you've been told about abusive men and why they do what they do. We're ditching the "he's just hurt" narrative and getting real about what's actually happening here.What You'll Learn:• Why therapy can't fix what isn't actually broken (spoiler: it's working exactly as designed)• The difference between trauma responses and entitlement• How seven systems work together to normalize abuse and make you question your reality• Why asking "why won't he change?" is the wrong question entirely• The...2025-06-1724 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredYou're Not Confused — You're Being Manipulated | Ep. 004In this explosive episode, Lisa and Dr. Peter Salerno drop a truth bomb that will change how you see manipulation forever. They dive deep into the uncomfortable reality that abusers manipulate on purpose, exploring whether manipulators need to be "smart" or just strategic, the real reasons behind their behavior, and why being manipulated leaves you feeling so confused and traumatized. This is a must-listen episode that will validate your experiences and help you see the truth clearly.Key Topics Covered:• The shocking truth: Abusers manipulate intentionally, not accidentally• Inte...2025-06-1034 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredWhy Trauma Bonds Feel Like Love But Destroy You | Ep. 003In this raw and vulnerable episode, Lisa opens up about the confusing reality of trauma bonds - why they feel so much like love when they're actually destroying us from the inside out.What You'll Learn:• The brain chemistry behind trauma bonds and why they're so addictive• How trauma bonds mimic the feeling of "true love"• Personal stories that reveal the desperation and confusion trauma bonds create• Why your body craves what's hurting you• The difference between genuine love and trauma bondingKey Takeaw...2025-06-0324 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredThe More They Reject You, The Harder You Try | Why We Chase Love That Hurts | Ep. 002When love feels like a battle you're desperate to win, something deeper is happening. In this vulnerable episode, I share my personal story of staying in a 5-year relationship with a professional football player who was cheating with multiple women—while I remained in denial, searching for "proof" I already had.I dive into why we chase people who reject us, why we work overtime to convince someone to love us, and the childhood wounds that program us to equate love with struggle.I'm talking about:The psychological trap that keeps us fighting for re...2025-05-2729 minReal Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships UncensoredThe Podcast They Don't Want You Listening To | Ep. 001This Is the Podcast They Don’t Want You Listening ToYou weren’t too sensitive. You weren’t overreacting. You were abused — and no one told you what to call it.In this first episode of Real Talk with Lisa Sonni: Relationships Uncensored, I’m naming what they tried to make you doubt. If you’ve ever missed someone who hurt you, wondered why it didn’t feel like freedom when you finally left, or asked yourself, “Why do I still care?” — this is for you.I’m talking about:The emotional...2025-05-2023 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseIs It Narcissism or Autism? When Neurodivergence Is Used as an ExcuseSend us a textIs it autism or narcissism? It’s become trendy lately to excuse toxic/abusive behavior as neurodivergence.Today, Erica Little-Herron, an expert/advocate on autism, joins us to discuss the key differences between narcissism and autism.Looking for the Podcast Interview with Erica Little-Herron?🔹Learn in this week's exclusive Podcast Extra interview why Erica Little-Herron thinks the autistic community is frequently targeted by narcissists when you subscribe to the Breaking Free from Narc Abuse newsletter. Gain immediate access to over 45 video...2025-03-2426 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhen It’s Necessary to Go No Contact With a Narcissistic Mother: A Conversation with Alex Anderson, FOG MovieSend us a textGoing no contact with a parent, particularly when it’s your mother, is a gut-wrenching decision.Alex Anderson, an independent film-maker and writer joins me to discuss his timely movie, FOG, which explores a toxic mother-daughter dynamics. He describes how Fog-Obligation-Guilt drives this challenging relationship.Learn more about Alex and his work here: https://www.youtube.com/@alexanderson2467To watch the FOG trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DacCvo7ngLASee the full movie of FOG here: https://youtu.be/aAknjJiYZJA?si=blSq5URg7RG...2025-03-1723 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseThe Disturbing Reasons Why Men Justify Violence Against Women: Interview with Chuck Derry, Co-Founder of Gender Violence InstituteSend us a textWhy do men abuse? How does this behavior benefit them?Today, Chuck Derry, the co-founder of the Gender Violence Institute, joins us to discuss the disturbing reasons for male violence and what community responses are needed to curb these toxic/dangerous behaviors.To learn more about the results of Chuck Derry’s study, visit: https://voicemalemagazine.org/abusive-men-describe-the-benefits-of-violence/Gender Violence Institute: https://www.genderviolenceinstitute.orgLooking for the Podcast Interview with Chuck Derry?🔹Learn what steps Derry thinks we need to take...2025-03-1022 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseS3 EP106: When Your Ex’s New Life Looks Like a Dream After They Shattered YoursSend us a text You’re barely picking up the pieces, and your ex has already moved on—posting picture-perfect snapshots of their new, fabulous life. Meanwhile, you're left wondering: Were they always this happy, or is this just for show? In this episode, Dr. Kerry and Lisa Sonni dive into why narcissists and toxic personalities seem...2025-03-0424 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhen Your Ex’s New Life Looks Like a Dream After They Shattered YoursSend us a textYou’re barely picking up the pieces, and your ex has already moved on—posting picture-perfect snapshots of their new, fabulous life. Meanwhile, you're left wondering: Were they always this happy, or is this just for show? In this episode, Dr. Kerry and Lisa Sonni dive into why narcissists and toxic personalities seem to seamlessly transition into a "perfect" new relationship. Is it real, or is it just another illusion? And if you’re struggling with the gut-punch of watching your ex’s highlight reel, we’ve got practical strategies to help you br...2025-03-0324 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseS3 EP105: Could Your Partner Be Sadistic? Why We Excuse Cruelty in RelationshipsSend us a text Ever wondered if your partner’s cruelty is intentional? Do they know they’re being hurtful, or is it just thoughtlessness? This week, Dr. Kerry and Lisa Sonni expose a chilling but often-overlooked dynamic in toxic relationships: sadism. Learn what sadism really is, how it shows up in narcissistic partnerships, and why some...2025-02-2525 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseCould Your Partner Be Sadistic? Why We Excuse Cruelty in RelationshipsSend us a textEver wondered if your partner’s cruelty is intentional? Do they know they’re being hurtful, or is it just thoughtlessness?This week, Dr. Kerry and Lisa Sonni expose a chilling but often-overlooked dynamic in toxic relationships: sadism.Learn what sadism really is, how it shows up in narcissistic partnerships, and why some toxic individuals seem to take pleasure in your pain. ➡️ Want to watch the Podcast Extra Interview? https://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse🔹 Need support? Get expert insights and practical st...2025-02-2425 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseThe Four Most Dangerous Personalities Types to Avoid: An Interview with Joe Navarro, Former FBI Special AgentSend us a textWhat signs warn that we’ve met not just a toxic person, but someone dangerous?This week Joe Navarro, author and former FBI special agent joins us to discuss the four most dangerous personalities. Navarro is most well-known for his work as a body language expert. He’s authored several books, including What Every Body is Saying, Dangerous Personalities, Louder Than Words, and The Dictionary of Body Language.To Watch the Podcast Extra Interview▶︎ Get practical help on how to recognize and escape a dangerous situatio...2025-02-1728 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseS3 EP103: When the Narcissist Says They Love You: Are They Lying?Send us a text Narcissists often claim to love us. That they want the save the relationship; but do they? In this episode, Dr. Kerry and Lisa Sonni discuss the confusing dynamic of narcissistic partners claiming to be changing and addressing the relationship issues, only aren’t. Learn how survivors can tell the difference between genuine...2025-02-1128 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhen the Narcissist Says They Love You: Are They Lying?Send us a textNarcissists often claim to love us. That they want the save the relationship; but do they?In this episode, Dr. Kerry and Lisa Sonni discuss the confusing dynamic of narcissistic partners claiming to be changing and addressing the relationship issues, only aren’t. Learn how survivors can tell the difference between genuine effort from sophisticated manipulation.Is it tricky to distinguish real from fake love? Be sure to check out this week’s podcast extra on how to spot someone lying about their intentions. Get immediate access to this exclu...2025-02-1028 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseS3 EP102: Why Toxic Relationships Always Leave Us Traumatized and Confused: An Interview with Dr. Peter SalernoSend us a text Narcissists know they are being abusive–that they're being manipulative and exploitative. This week, Dr. Peter Salerno is back to discuss his latest book, Traumatizing Cognitive Dissonance. He discusses with Lisa Sonni why abusive relationships with narcissists leave survivors feeling psychologically battered and confused. Are you looking for help battling the mental...2025-02-0427 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhy Toxic Relationships Always Leave Us Traumatized and Confused: An Interview with Dr. Peter SalernoSend us a textNarcissists know they are being abusive--that they're being manipulative and exploitative. This week, Dr. Peter Salerno is back to discuss his latest book, Traumatizing Cognitive Dissonance. He discusses with Lisa Sonni why abusive relationships with narcissists leave survivors feeling psychologically battered and confused. Are you looking for help battling the mental confusion caused by a narcissist? Dr. Salerno gives practical steps to reduce this mental confusion so that mental clarity and peace are possible again in this week's Substack Breaking Free Podcast Extra. Get immediate access to this and ot...2025-02-0326 min
The TikTok Influencers You Really Should Know About!Addicted to a Narcissist? Lisa Sonni Speaks On Why You Need To Get Out Now!In this episode of 'TikTok Influencers You Really Should Know About,' host Christine Blosdale speaks with Lisa Sonni, a trauma bond recovery expert and relationship coach known for her impactful TikTok presence.
Lisa shares her personal journey of surviving narcissistic abuse, sheds light on the complex nature of narcissism, and discusses how individuals can identify and break free from toxic relationships.
The discussion also covers the disturbing tactics narcissists use, such as love bombing and gaslighting, and offers crucial advice for those trying to escape these damaging dynamics.
Christine and Lisa delve...2025-01-2838 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseControlled by Guilt: A Popular Tool Narcissists Love to Use Against YouSend us a textNarcissists will use any means to control you, especially guilt.In this episode, Dr. Kerry and Lisa discuss the common reasons guilt is such a powerful weapon in the hands of a narcissist or toxic personality.For practical examples of common guilt phrases and how to break free from this toxic dynamic, join the Podcast Extra’s newsletter on SubStack for immediate access to this week’s exclusive video.Join here: substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuse****************************************Stay in Touch with Us!Ke...2025-01-2726 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhy Narcissists Are So Good At Disturbing Our Peace: Interview with Anna Runkle, Crappy Childhood FairySend us a textHave you noticed how upset narcissists get? How they can't regulate themselves?Anna Runkle of the wildly popular Crappy Childhood Fairy YouTube channel joins me today to talk about the importance of learning how to regulate yourself, especially after living with a narcissist.Learn more about the role of psychological regulation plays in setting us free from the lingering effects of trauma and abuse.Want to know the first steps to gaining peace and control after an upsetting event? Find out Anna's recommendations when you become a...2025-01-2025 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseThe Little Known Reasons Why Love-Bombing Works Every Time: Interview with Nadine Macaluso, Ex-Wife of the Wolf of Wall StreetSend us a textThere are powerful psychological reasons why love bombing works nearly every time. In this episode, Dr. Nadine Macaluso, the ex-wife of the Wolf of Wall Street shares what she’s uncovered about why we fall so easily spellbound for a toxic or narcissistic individual. What questions you have asked Dr. Nae about the movie, The Wolf of Wall Street? Find out ours when you subscribe to the Podcast Extra Substack newsletter. Unlock access here: http://substack.com/@breakingfreenarcabuseTo learn more about Dr. Nadine Macaluso (often known to...2025-01-1324 min
The DRV Law Show with Attorney Dennis VetranoLisa Sonni; Certified Relationship CoachIn this episode, Dennis sits down with Lisa Sonni, a certified relationship coach and author, to discuss the challenges of recognizing and recovering from abusive relationships. Lisa shares her personal journey, offers actionable advice for healing and rediscovering self-worth, and explores the importance of self-love and community in the recovery process. Tune in for an empowering and eye-opening conversation.
Lisa Sonni is a certified Relationship Coach with 7 certifications in trauma treatment, danger assessment, and relationship coaching. She is the author of four books, the creator of a breakthrough course for survivors of narcissistic abuse, and the co-host of th...2025-01-1031 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseHow Narcissists' Use Breadcrumbs of Love to Create an Agonizing ConfusionSend us a textTrauma bonds are one of the most misunderstood yet powerful connections that narcissists and toxic individuals exploit to keep their partners trapped.These bonds create a confusing dynamic where the very person causing harm becomes the source of comfort—a cycle that is as addictive as it is painful.In this replay of a fan-favorite episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to break down the making and breaking of trauma bonds. Together, we uncover how these devastating ties form, why they’re so hard to escape, and what you...2024-12-3033 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhy "Just Leave" is Terrible Advice: How Narcissists Keep You TrappedSend us a textHave you been told that you should just leave? In this episode, Lisa Sonni and I discuss why this advice severely misses the mark. Why exiting a narcissistically abusive relationship is difficult and even dangerous for most abuse survivors. Resources Mentioned in the EpisodeThe Gift of Fear by Gavin de BeckerCharacter Disturbance by George SimonDangerous Personalities by Joe NavarroThe Passionate Marriage by Dr. David SchnarchAre struggling to figure out what you should do in that toxic...2024-12-1625 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseThe High Cost of Toxic Relationships on Health, Wealth, and Peace of MindSend us a textNarcissistic relationships are parasitic in nature. Toxic personalities often drain others of their time, money, attention, and resources.In this podcast, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss the high and sometimes hidden cost of narcissistic relationships.Reference: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van de Kolk: https://amzn.to/3AtGt6zReady to heal from narcissistic abuse? Join Lisa and my upcoming Healing Strong live group coaching. Groups limits to 8 and the next group begins Jan 9, 2024. Secure your spot here! Looking for direction on...2024-11-1825 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseFeeling Confused? How Toxic People Keep Us Baffled and StuckSend us a textHave you noticed that when you’re finally ready to leave, your toxic or narcissistic partner suddenly does something amazing? Do they keep you off balance and confused about the state of the relationship?In this episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss how narcissists and other toxic people use emotional manipulation to keep their partners and loved ones psychologically stuck in a bad relationship.And, in this week’s Podcast Extra, Lisa and I discuss one listener’s struggles to leave. Learn what helpful suggestions and strategies we sugges...2024-11-1126 min
I Know I’m Crazy with NAJA HALL103: How to Recover from Narcissitsic Abuse with guest Lisa Sonni
Coach Lisa Sonni joins IKIC (again) for a candid chat rebranding "bitter baby mamas", calling out toxic stepmoms, and her take on the family court's attack against mothers. As a Certified Relationship Coach garnering an online reach of over 1 million followers, Lisa specializes in narcissist abuse education, trauma bonds, and rebuilding after traumatic partnerships.
Watch Ep 103 on Youtube
Check out her previous IKIC appearance on Ep 99
Follow Lisa Sonni on TikTok
2024-10-081h 23
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseHow Relationships Become Dangerous: The Slow Shift from Toxic to DeadlySend us a textDangerous relationships rarely begin physically abusive. Initially, you think you’ve met a fantastic partner, but slowly, the toxicity turns into something more insidious and lethal.Trigger warning: this week, Lisa Sonni and I share vulnerable details of how we missed the early signs of danger in our narcissistic relationships.IF YOU ARE A RISK of immediate danger or abuse, please get in touch with the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.References: Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft https://amzn.to/4e505fw2024-09-2324 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseIf You're in a Narcissistic Relationship, Why Couples Therapy is a Bad IdeaSend us a textWhen there’s trouble in a relationship, most couples are urged to seek couples counseling.In today’s episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to talk about why this suggestion is a terrible idea if your partner is a narcissist. Too many couples therapists lack the education to identify narcissistic abuse, and narcissistic and toxic partners are highly sophisticated at manipulating the therapeutic process.For help breaking a trauma bond, see Lisa’s resources: https://strongerthanbefore.caIn the Subscriber's Edition, Lisa and I discuss alternative strategies to couple...2024-09-1625 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhy Family Court Too Often Takes the Side of the Narcissistic AbuserSend us a textHave you noticed that too off family court becomes just another battle ground for the narcissist? Lisa Sonni joins me this week to discuss post-separation of abuse. Most of us passionately want to protect our children from our toxic ex only to experience more helplessness in the mediation and courtrooms. To learn how to tip the scales in your favor legally, join me for the Podcast Extra interview by becoming a paid subscriber. Learn the common mistake too many parents make, and what to do instead. Get immediate access...2024-08-2624 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhy Most People, Including the Victim, Fail to Recognize Narcissistic AbuseSend us a textAre you being abused and don’t know it? Not only is society blind to narcissistic abuse, but so are most victims. In this episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to talk about why narcissistic abuse is so difficult to spot, even to the victims, and the role this plays in the difficulty of getting help.To learn how to break your silence and society’s denial in this week’s podcast extra interview with Lisa. You get access to this resource along with twenty other amazing interviews with experts like D...2024-08-1929 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhen Your Partner is a Narcissist, Why the Term "Narcissistic" MattersSend us a textThese days, it seems like everyone is a narcissist. Is the label of narcissist or narcissistic harmful or helpful? This week, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss the importance and impact of identifying narcissistic abuse and dysfunctional relationship dynamics. Did you know you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix? For only $5/month, sign up for weekly podcast extras! Join me on Substack! Follow Dr. McAvoy!YouTube: @kerrymcavoyphdInstagram: @kerrymcavoyphdFacebook: @kerrymcavoyphdE-mail: hello@kerrymcavoyphd.comNewsletter: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substack.com/ Website: https://www.break...2024-07-2925 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhen You Can't Leave: How to Survive a Narcissistic RelationshipSend us a textWhat if you're not going to leave a narcissist? What if leaving isn't possible? Is there a way to survive a toxic relationship? Sometimes, leaving a toxic relationship isn't possible due to complex reasons. Lisa Sonni joins me this week to discuss why some victims find themselves trapped in a bad partnership and what to do if this describes your situation. Resources Referenced:Should I Stay or Should I Go? Surviving a Relationship with a Narcissist by Dr. Ramani Durvasula: https://amzn.to/4cx4cAe...2024-07-1526 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseI desperately love and fear them: The Terrifying Power of a Trauma BondSend us a textCould you be trauma-bonded to a narcissist? Are you battling a strange mix of love and fear? Lisa Sonni joins me this week to discuss trauma bonds--an intense connection to another person that is very difficult to break. We think we feel love when it's based on fear. Learn more about how to recognize if you're trauma-bonded and why it's so difficult to leave. Become a subscriber and get the Podcast Extra exclusive conversation about WHY identifying and breaking a trauma bond is so difficult. substack.com...2024-06-1730 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhy Can't I Leave? The Crazy Confusion from Late-Stage Cognitive DissonanceSend us a textHave you asked yourself, "Why can't I leave?" You know you should. You've even started hiding the ugly truth of what's really going on behind closed doors. In this episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss late-stage cognitive dissonance. Learn the underlying cause of the agonizing confusion that paralyzes the victim from acting in their own best interest. Find out what it took for us to break free from its terrible grip.To learn more about cognitive dissonance, become a Podcast Extra Subscriber. This week, Lisa and I deconstruct...2024-06-1026 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseIs my partner a narcissist? Highlights from Dr. Kerry's 3 Favorite InterviewsSend us a textRelationships with narcissists can be confounding, confusing, and incredibly frustrating. Join Dr. Kerry for this holiday episode when she revisits the highlights of her three favorite interviews. Hear Dr. Les Carter’s explanation of why narcissists are so tricky, Lisa Sonni’s three steps to breaking a trauma bond, and Dr. Robin Stern’s disturbing description of gaslighting’s power. To listen to these full episodes: Dr. Les Carter: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/podcast/s2-ep25-why-do-narcissists-have-to-make-life-miserable-dr-les-carter-explains-narcissism/Lisa Sonni: https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/podcast/s2-ep27-wh...2024-05-2725 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse"How mad can I make you?" The Toxic Games Covert Narcissists PlaySend us a textDo you find yourself exasperated or angry at your partner, but you aren’t sure why? Do they put you into no-win binds?Covert narcissists love to play subtle, often hidden mind games. They are masterful at twisting the truth, hiding exploitative agendas, and playing the victim, enraging their partners and families while keeping them in the dark. In this episode, Lisa Sonni joins to discuss the common mind games covert narcissists use. This week's self-help tip is how to use your emotional reaction and personal history to identify tox...2024-05-1327 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse"You're trying to control me!" Why Managing Boundaries with Narcissists FailsSend us a textHave you noticed managing boundaries with narcissists always fails? That they find some tricky way to evade limit setting? Suddenly, you’re being accused of being too controlling or sensitive, or they can’t understand what you're asking. In this podcast, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss the problems of managing boundaries with narcissists. We'll explore this issue from a narcissist's perspective: why they find boundaries threatening. The self-help tip is the importance of evaluating both partners' investment in the relationship as a measure of a healthy relationship. ...2024-05-0628 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhy I'd Snoop Again: How this Toxic Behavior Sometimes Provides Closure and SafetySend us a textIs it ever okay to go through your partner's phone? I've been guilty of snooping and might consider doing it again.Narcissists and toxic personalities are masters at creating ambiguity. My ex used to readily offer me his credit card after we first started dating. He'd send photos of broken machinery and take me on company runs, all as a way to build trust so that I couldn't tell real company crises from manufactured ones. I later learned he'd created this elaborate ruse to hide a double life.2024-04-1528 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseI Think My Pet is Being Hurt! The Danger Narcissists Pose to Our AnimalsSend us a textAn all-too-common problem is narcissists and pets. Toxic people often pose a serious danger to our beloved animals. In this podcast, Lisa Sonni and Dr. Kerry discuss the relationship toxic people often have with their family pets. Narcissists will often shower animals with love and attention only to harm the pets in private. The self-help tip includes some important boundaries to consider when beginning a relationship with someone new. Now, you don't need to wait a week for your next podcast fix. For only $5/month, sign up for weekly...2024-04-0825 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseIs It Really Abuse If I Can't Do What I Want? What is Coercive Control?Send us a textIs being overly controlling a form of abuse? In this podcast episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss the subtleties of coercive control. Learn how to recognize the common control tactic of this insidious form of abuse. And this week's self-help tip is to assess how your partner's feelings and demands affect you. Are you doing less and becoming increasingly isolated to please them?Would you like to learn more about this topic? Be sure to become a subscriber for the weekly Podcast Extra. Get a jam-packed...2024-03-1828 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhen Stonewalling Is Used Against You: How to Disarm Toxic InteractionsSend us a textStonewalling or giving someone the silent treatment is one of the nastiest forms of unfair fighting. When we ignore or reject another person's bid for a connection more than thirty percent of the time, the likelihood the relationship won't make it dramatically increases. In this episode, Lisa Sonni joins me to discuss why stonewalling is such a popular toxic behavior and what to do if it's happening to you. A big thank you to this podcast's sponsor, GettheTea.com. Check out their supplements and teas and get better health t...2024-03-1128 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseCould Your Relationship be Making You Sick? The High Cost of Living With a NarcissistSend us a textCould living with a narcissist be making you sick? Are you struggling with more illnesses? Maybe you even have an autoimmune disease.In this podcast episode, Tara Blair Ball and Lisa Sonni discuss the invisible impact of living with a narcissist on our health. Learn how narcissists and other toxic people not only sabotage our self-care but also impact our physical and mental health. Resources: The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk- https://amzn.to/3Sh06nc ***************Did you know you don't need to wait a wee...2024-02-1929 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseOff-balanced by the ups and downs? How narcissists keep you confused.Send us a textAre you feeling off-balanced? Do you wonder how your narcissistic partner or loved one is keeping you confused? In this podcast episode, Tara is joined by Lisa Sonni of Stronger Than Before, and they delve into how narcissists and toxic people employ intermittent reinforcement and other manipulative strategies to keep victims confused. The self-help tip is the importance of analyzing one's investment in a relationship. Ask yourself, "Is the giving and support mutually reciprocal and equitable?"Join Our Newsletter!Now, you don’t ne...2024-01-2927 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseDeceived by your partner? The devastating effects of betrayal traumaSend us a textWhen there's been a massive breach of trust, victims experience what's called betrayal trauma. Yet, there's often a rush to fix the duplicitous partner instead of the one betrayed, neglecting the victims' psychological devastation. In this episode, Lisa Sonni joins Dr. Kerry as a regular special guest, and they discuss victims' common betrayal reactions. And the self-help tip is the importance of prioritizing your own mental health if you're the one who's been betrayed. Need to get your next podcast fix? Now you don't have to wait a week. Sign...2024-01-1529 min
You Are Not CrazyUnderstanding and Healing Trauma Bonds with Lisa SonniAre you stuck in a trauma bond and struggling to break it? Join Lisa Sonni and I are we dissest Trauma Bonding and paint a vivid picture of what trauma bonding looks like and feels like.We shine a light on the psychological process that fosters a false sense of attachment in abusive relationships. We also bring to surface the feelings of fear, obligation, and guilt that often chain victims to their abusers. We end delving into the deceptive hope for change that blinds individuals to their existing circumstances. You can learn more about Lisa a...2023-12-0646 min
Breaking Free from Narcissistic AbuseWhy am I so confused? The Making & Breaking of a Trauma Bond with Lisa SonniSend us a textIn this episode, Tara and Kerry interview Lisa Sonni, author and trauma bond expert, on the development of powerful psychological attachments. Lisa shares how to recognize if we’re trauma bonded and how to know if we are breaking this toxic interpersonal connection. This episode demystifies the intense attachment so many of us have with toxic people with helpful, yet hard-hurting truths. Links: Lisa's WebsiteTrauma Bond Recovery JournalRebuilding After a Trauma Bond Surviving to Thriving Workbook 2023-08-0736 min
The Never Give Up Show!!Can You Recover From A Trauma Bond? Show #82 7/11/2023Tonight's Guest Is Lisa Sonni,She is a certified Relationship Coach specializing in trauma bond recovery. Having survived narcissistic abuse and domestic assault, she has transformed her own experiences into a driving force for helping others. With four published books and her renowned online course, the Trauma Bond Recovery Course, Lisa's influence as Stronger Than Before extends to nearly a million followers across various social media platforms. Through personalized 1:1 coaching and informative webinars, she empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to break free from traumatic partnerships and embark on a journey of healing and resilience.Book Your 1:1 Coaching Sessions...2023-07-122h 01
UnlicensedUN-accountable with Lisa SonniIn this week's episode of Unlicensed, Jill is joined by Life and Relationship Coach and expert on Narcissism and Trauma Bonds, Lisa Sonni, to offer some advice on how to break free from trauma bonds within abusive relationships and how to identify toxic red flags early on in dating. Today, Lisa describes the typical behaviors of a narcissist and how their victim's upbringings play a role in them being drawn towards them, defines what a trauma bond is and why it's so difficult for individuals to break free from these attachments, and discusses the differences between toxicity vs. abuse and...2023-04-2658 minYou Are Not CrazyUnderstanding Trauma Bonds with Lisa SonniWhen you're in a Trauma Bond it feels impossible to break. It feels like love. When we are in it, we don't really know that we want to break a trauma bond. We just know that we want to stop feeling the way we're feeling, but we can't leave.Lisa Sonni is an expert on Trauma Bonds. We explore trauma bonds and why they’re so hard to break, how you feel when you are trauma bonded, and what impedes healing. As a survivor of domestic assault and narcissistic abuse, Lisa's experience led her...2022-11-1645 min