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 recovery, rebuilt her life, and now helps others navigate their own healing journeys. Her story is one of empowerment, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and embracing peace after trauma. Grab a copy of her books here! https://a.co/d/fTSCEeg

Takeaways:

• Azadeh's early life was marked by bullying and cultural challenges.
• Substance abuse became a coping mechanism during her teenage years.
• She experienced a toxic relationship that involved manipulation and abuse.
• The turning point came when she escaped from her abuser after a traumatic incident.
• Recovery involved confronting her past and reclaiming her voice.
• Azadeh emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries in relationships.
• She highlights the need for self-love and healing after trauma.
• Her journey includes finding faith and purpose in helping others.
• Azadeh's story illustrates the power of resilience and personal growth.
• She encourages listeners to prioritize their peace and well-being.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Azadeh's Journey

00:30
Overcoming Childhood Bullying and Trauma

04:01
Struggles with Addiction and Abusive Relationships

08:26
Breaking Free from a Toxic Relationship

17:16
Finding Strength and Purpose in Recovery

21:46
Navigating Relationships After Trauma

27:10
Embracing Peace and Healing

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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. The discussion also delves into the dynamics of narcissistic relationships, the impact on children, and the importance of supporting victims of such relationships.

Throughout the conversation, Becky emphasizes the need for awareness and proactive measures in addressing marital issues before they escalate, while sharing her experiences dealing with narcissistic family members and ex-spouses. She also emphasizes the importance of legal preparedness, particularly having wills in place. The discussion highlights strategies for outsmarting narcissists, the emotional toll of such relationships, and the journey towards resilience and recovery. The speakers aim is to empower listeners with knowledge and insights to navigate their own challenges with narcissism.
Dr. Whetstone has been featured on CNN, The Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post and more.

You can find her book here: I (Think) I Want Out: What to Do When One of You Wants to End Your Marriage

Takeaways

There is a significant void in self-help resources for couples facing marriage crisis.

• Understanding the five stages of marital deterioration can help couples address issues early.
• Narcissistic partners often resist therapy and blame their spouses for problems.
• Victims of narcissistic relationships need validation and support to heal.
• Children are affected by parental conflicts and need one healthy parent.
• It's crucial to communicate the truth to children in an age-appropriate manner.
• Narcissists often manipulate perceptions and create division among family members.
• Therapists can help victims recognize that the issues are not their fault.
• The emotional toll of divorce can be profound and long-lasting.
• Healing from a toxic relationship requires time and self-compassion. If your ex is a narcissist, get your kids to have a will.
• Narcissists can create nightmarish family dynamics, especially after death.
• Ironclad wills are essential when dealing with narcissistic family members.
• Don't let a family member be the executor of a will if they're narcissistic.
• Legal advice can help you outsmart narcissists in court.
• Resilience is crucial for mental and emotional health after toxic relationships.
• Trust your intuition; it's often right about relationships.
• Narcissists thrive on retribution and manipulation.
• Seek therapy to help recover from narcissistic abuse.
• Empower yourself with knowledge to prevent falling into traps.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Marital Challenges

03:01
The Five Stages of Marital Deterioration

06:03
Understanding Na

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We would love to have you join us on our public FB group; Women of Faith; Breaking Free From Toxic Relationships, or request to join our private FB group; The Matadoras.

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 conversation highlights that forgiveness is essential for personal peace, while reconciliation requires mutual effort and safety.

Takeaways
Forgiveness is a personal choice to release resentment.

• Reconciliation requires mutual effort and safety.
• Healing from trauma takes time and is a personal journey.
• Being angry is a natural part of the healing process.
• Forgiveness does not mean condoning the harm done.
• Setting boundaries is crucial for self-preservation.
• Surround yourself with supportive people during healing.
• Forgiveness can happen without the other person's involvement.
• You can forgive someone and still choose not to reconcile.
• True love involves accountability and change from the person who caused harm.

Chapters

00:00
Forgiveness vs. Reconciliation: Understanding the Difference

09:44
The Process of Healing: Moving Beyond Anger

18:57
Setting Boundaries: The Importance of Self-Preservation

26:41
Choosing Your Circle: Surrounding Yourself with Supportive People

Like and follow us on YouTube, & Tik Tok! Surviving Toxic Relationships

@survivingtoxicrelationships12

We would love to have you join us on our public FB group; Women of Faith; Breaking Free From Toxic Relationships, or request to join our private FB group; The Matadoras.