Claim OwnershipTHE VIBRANT SURVIVOR -How to Identify a Narcissist, Narcissistic Abuse, Toxic Relationships, Trauma Healing, Health, Wellness
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Heal and thrive after narcissistic abuse.
Do you want to disconnect from narcissistic or toxic relationships?
Are you feeling stressed and lonely in dysfunctional family and work environments, or social groups?
Are you ready to heal and thrive after narcissistic abuse?
In this podcast, you’ll find holistically healing solutions to set you free from narcissistically abusive relationships, trauma-related health issues, and the enabling of toxic behavior. My mission is to help you heal and thrive after narcissistic abuse through holistic health, trauma support, and boundaries.
If you’re ready to disconnect from dysfunction, prioritize your healing, and reclaim your power after narcissistic abuse, then you’re in the right place!
Hi, I’m Lesley. A wife, mom, and narcissistic abuse survivor. For years, I rationalized toxic relationships and dysfunctional environments, in an effort to find connection, purpose, success, and peace. I fell for lies, fake opportunities, and empty promises, wasting my time, talents, and money. It took a toll on my mental health (Hello, CPTSD!); and it almost cost me my life…literally.
I finally realized that if I was going to break the cycle and heal my childhood trauma from the inside out, I needed a holistic approach. I reclaimed and redirected my resources towards solutions that helped me to put the narcissistic and toxic people in my life in my rear-view mirror. After applying some stealthy strategies for drama-free exits, protecting my peace, and pursuing my goals, I was determined to help others to identify, navigate, and heal from this insidious form of abuse. I went to school and became a Master Certified Health Coach and Certified Trauma Support Specialist. And I’m here to teach you how to heal and thrive after narcissistic abuse.
If you’re ready to experience healing and empowerment after narcissistic abuse that focuses on YOU; holistic health and wellness solutions with real results like more clarity, discernment, confidence, a more positive mindset, healthy boundaries, and better relationships – this podcast is for you!
Take a deep breath in…Let it out slowly…And just relax, this time is for you.
Contact: support@lesleycain.com
Instagram: @thevibrantsurvivor
***DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk. Lesley Cain is not a doctor, therapist or counselor. If you need healthcare, medical attention, therapy, or counseling, please seek professional help from a licensed practitioner.
Heal and thrive after narcissistic abuse.
Do you want to disconnect from narcissistic or toxic relationships?
Are you feeling stressed and lonely in dysfunctional family and work environments, or social groups?
Are you ready to heal and thrive after narcissistic abuse?
In this podcast, you’ll find holistically healing solutions to set you free from narcissistically abusive relationships, trauma-related health issues, and the enabling of toxic behavior. My mission is to help you heal and thrive after narcissistic abuse through holistic health, trauma support, and boundaries.
If you’re ready to disconnect from dysfunction, prioritize your healing, and reclaim your power after narcissistic abuse, then you’re in the right place!
Hi, I’m Lesley. A wife, mom, and narcissistic abuse survivor. For years, I rationalized toxic relationships and dysfunctional environments, in an effort to find connection, purpose, success, and peace. I fell for lies, fake opportunities, and empty promises, wasting my time, talents, and money. It took a toll on my mental health (Hello, CPTSD!); and it almost cost me my life…literally.
I finally realized that if I was going to break the cycle and heal my childhood trauma from the inside out, I needed a holistic approach. I reclaimed and redirected my resources towards solutions that helped me to put the narcissistic and toxic people in my life in my rear-view mirror. After applying some stealthy strategies for drama-free exits, protecting my peace, and pursuing my goals, I was determined to help others to identify, navigate, and heal from this insidious form of abuse. I went to school and became a Master Certified Health Coach and Certified Trauma Support Specialist. And I’m here to teach you how to heal and thrive after narcissistic abuse.
If you’re ready to experience healing and empowerment after narcissistic abuse that focuses on YOU; holistic health and wellness solutions with real results like more clarity, discernment, confidence, a more positive mindset, healthy boundaries, and better relationships – this podcast is for you!
Take a deep breath in…Let it out slowly…And just relax, this time is for you.
Contact: support@lesleycain.com
Instagram: @thevibrantsurvivor
***DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk. Lesley Cain is not a doctor, therapist or counselor. If you need healthcare, medical attention, therapy, or counseling, please seek professional help from a licensed practitioner.
176 Episodes
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Hey, Survivor!
What does self-regulation actually look like in a stressful, triggering environment?
As I sat through intense courtroom testimony this week, I had to stay calm, composed, and grounded—without visibly reacting. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary.
I’ll share the tools I used in real time, including breathwork, physical awareness, emotional processing, and cognitive reframing.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, triggered, or afraid of how you might react in a difficult moment, this episode will give you practical tools to stay in control and maintain your integrity.
🎧 Listen now and remember: Feelings aren’t facts. So respond, don’t react.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Why do survivors feel compelled to figure out narcissistic and toxic relationships? In this episode, we’ll talk about what drives you to go down the rabbit hole to understand the narcissist—and when your efforts to clarify their chaos and drama can become a barrier to your healing.
If you’re curious about what you’ll actually find, why and how a deep dive can keep you stuck, and how to shift your focus back to you and your recovery - this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now and remember: You found out why - now say goodbye.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Why do narcissists move on quickly after relationships end? In this episode, we break down the psychology behind “replacement,” trauma bonding, and why survivors are left feeling confused and hurt.
If you’re wondering how narcissistic individuals avoid accountability, why the “get over it and move on” mandate isn’t a sign of healing, and how to reclaim your confidence and clarity - this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now and remember: They’re rushing ahead - you’re healing instead.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Illness is real—but it can also be used for manipulation in narcissistic and toxic relationships. Patterns matter.
In this episode, we’ll explore how some individuals use illness to gain sympathy, avoid accountability, and control others—and how you can recognize red flags and protect your boundaries and peace.
If you’ve ever felt confused or guilty for questioning someone’s illness - inwardly or outright, this episode will help you trust yourself again.
🎧 Listen now and remember: Be kind and care—but stay aware.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Managing unexpected confrontation, regulating your nervous system, and responding with dignity and confidence can be challenging for trauma survivors - especially when your brain detects a threat and sounds the alarm.
In this episode, a surprising criminal courtroom moment provides a powerful lesson in emotional regulation, trauma responses, and calming your brain and body in high-pressure situations. We’ll talk about self regulation, Stephen Porges and the Polyvagal Theory, and what you can do to take care of your brain and body during awkward, uncomfortable, high stakes moments.
If you’ve ever been called out or confronted publicly, this episode will give you strategies and tools to stay calm, grounded, and in control.
🎧 Listen now and remember: Don’t hesitate to regulate; and you’ll soon forget the social threat.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Detaching from unhealthy relationships can feel impossible—especially for survivors of narcissistic abuse who were conditioned to fix, manage, or absorb other people’s behaviors, emotions, and thinking.
In this episode, we explore detachment, inspired by the classic recovery book Codependent No More by Melody Beattie. Detachment helps survivors stop reacting to relationships and situations, focus on their healing, and protect their peace while staying present. Creating space and healthy living are key.
If you’ve ever felt the stress of trying to control others or outcomes that aren’t your responsibility, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now and remember: You can care without repair—detachment helps to clear the air.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Can you return to places connected to painful memories of narcissistic abuse and still feel safe?
In this episode, we explore how trauma becomes linked to environments, why hometown visits or family gatherings can feel activating, and practical ways to protect your peace while reclaiming your experiences.
If you, or someone you know, need strategies to regulate your nervous system, navigate toxic dynamics, and create new memories without losing your progress, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now and remember: You can revisit the past without reliving it.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Feeling behind in your healing journey, after narcissistic or toxic relationships? Under pressure to “get over it” or “move on?” You’re not alone or crazy. This episode will reframe those tired, toxic narratives. Trauma healing is a journey, not a race. So, you need to pace yourself. You’ll learn why trauma recovery requires slowness, how the nervous system recalibrates after emotional abuse, and how to honor your path and pace without shame.
🎧 Listen now and remember: No rush - just rise.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Why does narcissistic abuse feel so devastating? In this episode, we unpack betrayal trauma — how your body and brain respond when someone you depend on is also the one causing harm.
Learn how betrayal trauma impacts memory, attachment, identity, and nervous system regulation — and how to begin healing using evidence-based insight and Dr. Sears’ L.E.A.N. framework.
🎧 Listen now and remember: Betrayal shakes trust - healing rebuilds us.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Have you ever looked back on your narcissistic relationship and thought, “How did I not see this?” If you’ve been feeling embarrassed, ashamed, or questioning your intelligence after narcissistic abuse, this episode is for you.
In this episode, we unpack why survivors often feel foolish — and why that feeling is actually a trauma response, not a character flaw. You’ll learn how manipulation, trauma bonding, and betrayal trauma impact the brain, why self-blame is common after emotional abuse, and how to rebuild trust in yourself.
If you’re recovering from narcissistic abuse, emotional manipulation, or a toxic relationship — this episode will help you move from self-doubt to self-trust, from shame to clarity, and from confusion to confidence.
🎧 Listen now and remember: You weren’t foolish — you were fooled.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
Feeling like your “no” doesn’t matter? In this episode, we break down 7 ways narcissists test your boundaries, why it hurts, and how to protect yourself without guilt. Learn evidence-based insights on narcissistic behavior and relational aggression; and practical tools to improve your health and wellbeing and reclaim your power.
If you, or someone you know, need help reinforcing your boundaries, this episode is for you.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
#NarcissisticAbuse #Boundaries #SurvivorHealing #TraumaRecovery #LEANWellness #MentalHealth #EmotionalWellbeing
Hey, Survivor!
Narcissistic and toxic female friendships can be hazardous to your health and well-being. In this episode, we’re unpacking the hidden harm and why it hurts so deeply.
You’ll learn:
Why betrayal trauma hits harder in same-gender relationships
7 subtle signs a “friend” may be manipulating, competing, or controlling
How covert narcissism shows up through gossip, triangulation, and victim-playing
Evidence-based insight on relational aggression
How to protect your peace using Dr. Sears’ L.E.A.N. wellness framework
If you’ve ever felt confused, devalued, or drained by a friendship or friend group — this episode will bring clarity, validation, and empowerment.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
#NarcissisticAbuse #FemaleNarcissist #TraumaRecovery #WomensMentalHealth #ToxicFriendships
Hey, Survivor!
Setting boundaries can feel painful — not just for others, but for you. In this episode, I share how guilt shows up when we stop people-pleasing, why others resist boundaries, and how you can protect your peace without abandoning yourself. We’ll cover trauma-informed insights, holistic healing through Dr. Sears’ LEAN framework, and practical tools for holding boundaries with confidence and compassion.
If you’re healing from narcissistic abuse and want healthy relationships, this episode is for you.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
#boundaries #narcissisticabuse #healingjourney #traumarecovery #selfrespect
Hey, Survivor!
After narcissistic abuse, it can feel tempting to announce your independence, explain your choices, or prove you’re moving on. But less is more.
In this episode of The Vibrant Survivor Podcast, I explain why moving in silence is one of the most powerful and protective choices you can make. We’ll talk about how narcissists respond when they receive no reaction, why oversharing leads to re-engagement and re-traumatization, and how silence helps you regulate your nervous system and reclaim your peace.
If you’re healing from narcissistic abuse and ready to stop explaining yourself, this episode is for you.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
#NarcissisticAbuse #TraumaHealing #EmotionalAbuseRecovery
#BoundariesAreSelfCare #NervousSystemHealing
#SurvivorSupport #ReclaimYourPeace
Hey, Survivor!
Narcissistic abuse doesn’t always look volatile or obvious. Sometimes it’s calm, polite, credentialed, and protected by institutions.
In Episode 161 of The Vibrant Survivor Podcast, we explore the polite, professional narcissist—the kind who hides behind charm, titles, faith language, or public service while causing harm behind the scenes. We break down why these individuals are often protected, where they operate, and how organizational systems can enable abuse.
You’ll learn about DARVO, organizational narcissism, and why survivors are often dismissed or silenced when abuse doesn’t match stereotypes. Using Dr. Sears’ LEAN wellness framework, this episode offers grounded tools for clarity, regulation, and self-trust—especially after the holidays, when professional and community contact increases.
If you, or someone you know, have ever felt confused, invalidated, blamed, or punished for speaking up in a “respectable” environment, this episode will help you name what happened—and trust yourself again.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
#NarcissisticAbuseAwareness #WorkplaceNarcissism #NarcissisticSafeHaven #DARVO #Gaslighting #TraumaInformed #TheVibrantSurvivor
Hey, Survivor!
The holidays can be especially difficult for survivors of narcissistic abuse and trauma. Court stress, family dynamics, grief, and loneliness can leave you feeling overwhelmed or isolated.
In this episode of The Vibrant Survivor Podcast, I share ways to step back from retraumatizing spaces this season and opt for gentle, practical ways to protect your mental, emotional, and physical health during the holidays.
We talk about the healing power of connection, safe community, creativity, service, and rest—and the importance of prioritizing your peace.
You don’t have to push through pain to prove your strength.
You don’t have to do the holidays alone.
Connection heals what isolation conceals.
If you, or someone you know, need practical holiday support, this episode is for you.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
In this episode of The Vibrant Survivor Podcast, I’m sharing what it was like to attend two emotionally intense court hearings in one week…on the same day—a murder sentencing, and a pre-trial evidentiary hearing—and how supporting victims can be retraumatizing for survivors.
During the sentencing hearing, as family members, friends, and community members read victim impact statements, my body responded before my mind could. I experienced hyperventilation, emotional flooding, and nervous system overwhelm—a powerful reminder that trauma lives in the body, not just the mind.
With holidays approaching—and this season already carrying heavy anniversary trauma—I made the intentional decision to step back from court proceedings until after the new year. Not because I don’t care. Not because justice doesn’t matter. But because healing requires regulation, rest, and boundaries.
The holidays can intensify grief, loss, and trauma responses—especially for those navigating court systems, injustice, or unresolved pain.
If you, or someone you know, need permission to pause, breathe, and choose peace this season, this episode is for you.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
#TraumaHealing #CourtroomTrauma #NarcissisticAbuseRecovery #HolidayTriggers
#TheVibrantSurvivor #TraumaInformed #SelfCareIsStrength #HealingJourney
Hey, Survivor!
In today’s episode, I break down the “recipe” behind narcissistically abusive relationships: the predictable blend of truth, lies, urgency, flattery, and psychological manipulation that keeps survivors stuck, confused, and doubting their own reality.
If you’ve ever wondered “How did I miss this?”, today’s episode will show you the answer:
You didn’t miss anything — you were intentionally misled.
We’ll talk about trauma bonding, intermittent reinforcement, and cognitive dissonance… and why highly empathetic, intelligent, trustworthy people are targeted.
You’ll learn:
The 6 “ingredients” narcissists use to manufacture trust
Why mixing a little truth with a lot of lies is so effective
How your nervous system gets trained to bond to chaos
How to rebuild clarity using Dr. Sears’ L.E.A.N. pillars
How to reframe shame, take back your power, and ground yourself in truth
Whether the narcissist in your life was a partner, parent, friend, coworker, or authority figure — this episode gives you the clarity and validation you deserve.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
In today’s episode, we uncover a tactic every survivor of narcissistic abuse needs to understand:
The narcissist will use you to woo.
Using your name… your reputation… your kindness… your credibility… even your faith language, scripture, or values — narcissists will borrow any part of your goodness to soften their manipulation and influence others. This is called borrowed credibility, and it’s rooted in coercive control.
I share a real story from the murder trial involving fake emails, spiritual guilt language, and reputation abuse — and we explore why survivors often miss this pattern until long after the relationship ends. We’ll dig into the psychology behind this deception and L.E.A.N. into healing.
This is a validating, grounding, empowering episode for anyone who has ever been used, misrepresented, or manipulated by someone they trusted.
You were the good one.
You were the credible one.
And the fact they borrowed your light shows how bright you shine.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
Hey, Survivor!
In this short Thanksgiving episode, I’m sharing a heartfelt message of gratitude for you — the one doing the hard healing work every single day. Whether your week is calm, complicated, or emotionally charged, this episode gives you three grounding tips for a peaceful holiday, especially if you’re navigating family dynamics, trauma memories, or feelings that surface this time of year.
Inside the episode, you’ll learn:
How to protect your peace when old triggers or stressful people show up
Why boundaries are a form of self-love (not selfishness)
One simple grounding practice you can use in the car, at the table, or in the bathroom for a quick reset
How gratitude supports trauma recovery without avoiding your real feelings
A short, heartfelt message to remind you that you are worthy, growing, and not alone
Whether you’re spending this holiday week with others or keeping it quiet and cozy this year, this episode is your reminder that you deserve gentleness, rest, and joy — exactly as you are.
Know who you're dealing with. Know who you are.
💚Lesley
Book your call here.
Become a Vibrant Survivor insider here.
Let's connect on IG! Share today's episode and tag me @thevibrantsurvivor
Contact support@lesleycain.com
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