Claim OwnershipSurviving Toxic Relationships Podcast (Formerly The Matadoras, No More Bull Podcast)
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© 2025 Surviving Toxic Relationships Podcast (Formerly The Matadoras, No More Bull Podcast)
Description
Two Women, One Narcissist, and the Journey to Freedom
In this raw and gripping podcast, Lizzie and Deana—two women who share the painful bond of having been married to the same narcissistic abuser—pull back the curtain on the devastating cycle of manipulation, betrayal, and gaslighting that they endured. Together, they unravel the dark truths of sexual addiction, financial abuse, trauma bonding, and double lives, while sharing how they found the courage to escape and reclaim their power.
Through candid storytelling, heartfelt conversations, and practical insights, Lizzie and Deana shed light on the devastating ripple effects of narcissistic abuse, not just in their lives but in the lives of others who followed. More importantly, they offer hope, empowerment, and tools for healing to those who may feel trapped.
This podcast is not just about survival—it's about rising above the pain to build your best self and your best life. A must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, solidarity, and the strength to survive or break free.
68 Episodes
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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 taking the leap,How guilt and shame can sabotage healing,And most importantly, the critical role...
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 conversation, she explores the importance of not internalizing trauma, the personal nature of forgiveness, and ho...
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 importance of addressing childhood wounds, the role of empathy and forgiveness, and why we are not defined...
🧠 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 big feelings. From the emotional impact of separation to the healing power of play, Jacintha br...
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 faced unimaginable challenges. But instead of staying silent, she’s using her story to shine a ...
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 practical guidance to start the process of healing. This episode is a must-watch for anyone seeki...
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 losing her sense of identity, security, and voice. But today, she’s no longer surviving — she’s th...
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 gospel, how it transformed her life, and the incredible journey that followed — from rock bottom to ...
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 poor responsiveness can lead to deep emotional wounds. They also dive into critical conversations around: Ble...
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-traumatized by recent headlines, or are walking with someone through this pain—you are not alone...
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 discussion also covers the role of fathers, the impact of parental alienation, and identifying red fla...
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. Takeaways Gaslighting is a manipulative tactic that makes you doubt your memory and perception.Bla...
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 need for women to reclaim their identities and find hope after divorce, encouraging listeners to embrace their journey...
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. The conversation concludes with practical tools for recognizing manipulation and affirmations f...
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...
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 ...
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 m...
Summary In 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-empowerment. The discussion also covers the red flags to watch for in relationships, the impact...
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 of recognizing positive experiences. She also discusses her book, '48 Hours to Change Your Life,' whic...
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 involved with narcissistic partners. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-awareness and ca...
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