Next Up: Narcissism

Some people will resist your boundaries. That doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong.   In this replay episode, I sit down with psychotherapist and Boundary Boss author Terri Cole for a conversation that so many of you have been asking for: how to set boundaries with a narcissistic parent. Terri doesn’t sugarcoat it. She names what’s hard, calls out the behaviors you might be normalizing, and gives you language and frameworks that actually work, even when you’re dealing with someone who refuses to respect your limits.   We talk about her “three boundary offenders” framework (first-timers, repeat offenders, and destroyers), how to enforce boundaries without being rigid or resentful, and why narcissists in particular see your limits as a threat to their control. If you’ve ever had someone use guilt, emotional blackmail, or even faux-concern (“are you okay? you seem unstable…”) to manipulate you into staying small, this conversation is for you.   We also talk about the long-term impact of growing up with a narcissistic parent—including codependency, emotional triggers that don’t match the moment, and why so many adult children end up feeling deeply unknown in their closest relationships.   If you’re ready to shift the dynamic and protect your peace without losing yourself in the process, this episode is a powerful place to start. There’s nothing wrong with you, and it’s not too late to make a change.   Episode Breakdown 00:00 Introduction 02:08 What Healthy Boundaries Actually Are 05:03 Why Boundaries Fail Without Enforcement 08:24 The Three Types of Boundary Offenders 19:02 Why Narcissists React Differently to Boundaries 21:22 Common Manipulation Tactics Narcissists Use 33:15 How Narcissistic Parents Impact Adult Relationships 41:02 Signs You Were Raised by a Narcissistic Parent 47:12 Gaslighting, Triangulation, and Emotional Violations   Links Connect with Terri Cole: terricole.com/workshop terricole.com/fatherwound  https://boundarybossbook.com/ https://www.instagram.com/terricole/   Connect with Dr. Jaime Zuckerman: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Fawning isn’t a flaw to fix. It is a brilliant survival response that can quietly shape your entire identity until you finally have the words for it.   In this episode, I sit down with clinical psychologist and author Ingrid Clayton for a conversation that I know will resonate deeply with so many of you. We talk about fawning, what it is, how it shows up, and why it’s so often misunderstood. If you’ve ever felt like you disappeared in a relationship or lost touch with your own needs just to keep someone else happy, you’re not alone. And chances are, your nervous system was doing exactly what it needed to do to keep you safe.   Ingrid shares her own story as a survivor of complex trauma, and how that experience shaped the work she does now. We explore the difference between trauma that’s tied to a single event and the kind that builds over time in ways that can be hard to name. We talk about what healing actually looks like, how to start reconnecting with yourself, how to recognize the patterns that no longer serve you, and how to hold space for the grief that sometimes comes with change.   This isn’t a conversation filled with quick fixes or five-step plans. It’s honest and validating. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why do I keep doing this?” or “What’s wrong with me?” I hope this episode helps you see that nothing about you is broken. There’s a reason for the patterns. And there’s also a way through.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  02:08 How Personal Experience with Trauma Shaped Dr. Ingrid Clayton’s Work 03:17 What Complex Trauma Really Looks Like 10:20 Fawning as a Smart and Adaptive Trauma Response 14:03 Why Codependency and People-Pleasing Miss the Point 20:20 Real-Life Examples of Fawning in Adulthood 27:20 Why Trauma-Informed Therapy Matters 30:10 Rebuilding a Relationship with Yourself 36:09 How Healing Can Change Your Closest Relationships 40:41 Dr. Clayton’s Message to Anyone Who Feels Broken   Links Book: Believing Me https://amzn.to/4lkulGy Website: https://www.ingridclayton.com/   Preorder ‘Fawning’ here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/779579/fawning-by-dr-ingrid-clayton/ https://www.instagram.com/ingridclaytonphd/   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most people don’t realize how much of their relationship pain comes from patterns they never chose and beliefs they never questioned, and I’ve seen it over and over again.   In this episode, I’m joined by someone I’ve admired for a long time, relationship expert and author Jillian Turecki. Her new book, “It Begins With You: The Nine Hard Truths About Love That Will Change Your Life,” is the kind of work that doesn’t just offer advice. It asks you to look inward. We talk about the ways we lose ourselves in relationships, the lies we tell ourselves to keep people close, and what it really means to grow after heartbreak. What does healthy love even look like? How do we know when we’re giving too much? Why do so many of us feel like we have to convince someone to stay?   Jillian shares so much of her insight and experience in this conversation: why deal breakers matter, how our family stories shape our love lives, and what it actually means to make peace with the past. One of the most powerful takeaways for me was her perspective on forgiveness, and how letting go doesn’t always mean condoning someone’s behavior. Sometimes it just means refusing to carry the story anymore.   If you’ve ever felt stuck, questioned your worth in a relationship, or wondered why you keep ending up in the same kind of dynamic, this one’s for you. I hope it leaves you feeling seen… and more importantly, ready to take your power back.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Jillian Turecki and Her Work 03:14 The Importance of Self-Reflection in Relationships 06:00 Defining Healthy Love 08:49 Understanding Deal Breakers in Relationships 11:57 The Complexity of Relationship Dynamics 15:08 The Myth of Fairy Tale Love 18:01 The Challenge of Convincing Someone to Love You 20:59 Processing Breakups and Moving Forward 24:00 Making Peace with Your Parents 36:49 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom   Links Connect with Jillian Turecki: https://www.jillianturecki.com/book https://www.instagram.com/jillianturecki/?hl=en https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jillian-on-love/id1640172049   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Toxic relationships don’t usually start with obvious red flags. More often, they start with connection, someone who seems to really see you, who shows up in big ways, who makes you feel chosen. But over time, that connection can shift into something confusing, isolating, and hard to recognize for what it is.   I talk with Elizabeth Chambers, Host, Investigative Journalist and Executive Producer of the docuseries “Toxic,” about the psychological patterns behind abusive relationships - how they take shape, why they’re so easy to miss, and what keeps people from leaving. Elizabeth shares the stories of survivors she interviewed, many of whom came from loving, stable homes and never expected to end up in something harmful.   We also get into how culture plays a role. The fairytales we grow up with, the rom-com tropes, the magazines that taught us how to “get the guy” - they all send messages that can make it easier for abusers to gain trust and control. And when someone starts tailoring themselves to your vulnerabilities, mirroring your interests, slowly taking over the parts of your life that matter most, it rarely looks like abuse in the moment.   I talk through the tools I see used again and again in narcissistic relationships - love bombing, gaslighting, financial control - and how easy it is for good, smart people to get caught in them. And we explore what real support looks like when someone you care about is stuck in a relationship that’s hurting them.   This episode is a reminder to pay attention. To stay curious. To talk about the things we’re taught to keep private. Because awareness is the first step, and no one should have to figure it out alone.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction to Narcissism and Healing 02:52 The Impact of Toxic Relationships 05:53 Recognizing Generational and Cultural Patterns 11:57 Why It’s So Hard to Leave 18:09 Love Bombing and Emotional Control 24:06 Red Flags and Manipulation Tactics 30:06 The Psychology Behind Abuse 34:25 Power, Intimacy, and Control 41:07 Communication and Relationship Imbalances 49:49 How Friends and Family Can Help 51:32 Breaking the Cycle for Future Generations   Links Watch Toxic on Max: https://www.max.com/shows/toxic/33977981-2e30-45d2-98c6-3145f9c40b33 https://www.instagram.com/elizabethchambers/   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Couples therapy isn’t always a safe space, especially when a narcissist is in the room.   I get asked about this constantly: “Should we try couples therapy?” If your partner has narcissistic traits or narcissistic personality disorder, my answer is no. In this episode, I explain why.   Too often, therapy turns into a performance, another platform for the narcissist to manipulate, charm the therapist, and flip the narrative. Instead of feeling supported, the person being harmed walks out feeling blamed, invalidated, and more confused than ever.   The truth is, most therapists aren’t trained to recognize the subtle patterns of narcissistic abuse. They might know the diagnosis from a textbook, but they miss the gaslighting, coercive control, and emotional manipulation happening right in front of them. I’ve seen how that leads to real harm.   If you’ve been to couples therapy and felt like something was off, or worse, felt like the problem, you’re not imagining it. You’re not overreacting. And you’re not alone.   In this episode, I break down why I never recommend couples therapy in these situations, and why individual support is not just more effective, but also safer.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  01:16 Why Couples Therapy Fails with a Narcissist 03:38 Therapists Often Miss the Signs of Narcissistic Abuse 08:16 How Narcissists Use Therapy as a Stage 10:48 Their Real Agenda Isn’t Healing 12:08 Toxic Behavior vs. Narcissistic Abuse 18:06 Why Speaking the Truth in Therapy Can Be Dangerous 21:08 When Therapy Advice Causes More Harm 24:55 Is There Any Benefit to Couples Therapy? 29:55 Why Individual Therapy Is the Safer Choice 33:00 Dr. Z’s Advice and How to Get Help   Links Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

When a narcissist cheats, the affair often has little to do with love or connection. It’s about power.   In this episode, I sit down with psychotherapist Lauren LaRusso, LPC, LMHC, to unpack why narcissists have affairs and how their motivations are different from what most people expect. Why do they always seem to have someone waiting in the wings? Why is there so little remorse when they’re caught? And why does the person who’s been betrayed so often end up feeling like the one to blame?   Lauren and I talk about how narcissists use affairs to stay in control and protect their image. These betrayals aren’t usually about emotional disconnection. They’re about manipulation, dominance, and supply. We also get into what it’s like for the person on the receiving end: the self-doubt, the confusion, the isolation. And we talk honestly about why leaving is so complicated. Sometimes there are kids involved. Sometimes it’s about safety. Sometimes it’s about survival.   If you’ve been through this, or you’re still in it, I hope this conversation brings you clarity. You’re not imagining it. You’re not overreacting. And most importantly, you’re not alone.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why Narcissists Cheat 03:25 What Counts as an Affair 04:52 Gender Differences in Infidelity 12:06 Can an Affair Stabilize a Marriage? 16:47 Why People Don’t Just Leave 23:24 Affairs in Narcissistic Relationships 27:38 The “Perfect” Narcissist and Secret Lives 30:10 Lack of Accountability 33:07 How Narcissistic Abuse Shows Up in Therapy 38:01 The Danger of Blaming the Betrayed Partner 40:07 Affairs as a Survival Strategy 42:03 Healing After Narcissistic Relationships   In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, ALL virtual courses AND apparel on my website are 20% off for the month of MAY with CODE: MHAM20 Explore on-demand courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Shop apparel here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel   Links Connect with Lauren LaRusso, LPC, LMHC: website: www.theaffairconsultant.com Instagram @LaurenLaRusso   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Family courts were designed to protect families. So why do so many survivors find themselves trapped by the very system that was supposed to protect them?   In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Charlotte Proudman, a family law barrister and founder of Right to Equality. Charlotte has spent her career challenging the failures of the family court system, especially when it comes to cases involving domestic abuse, sexual coercion, coercive control, and parental alienation. We talk openly about the real impact these failures have on women and children, and why change is so urgently needed.   Why is coercive control still overlooked in custody cases? How did parental alienation turn into a legal weapon used by abusive parents? Charlotte shares powerful stories from her new book, “He Said, She Said,” and explains how family courts continue to mishandle allegations of sexual abuse and emotional violence.   This conversation pulls back the curtain on a system that too often silences the very people it should protect. Charlotte and I talk about what needs to happen for family courts to finally center the voices of survivors, and how we can push for the trauma-informed change that families deserve.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 02:22 Family Courts and Gender Equality 03:44 Systemic Failures in Addressing Domestic Abuse 08:07 Sexual Coercion and Coercive Control 16:07 Parental Alienation as a Legal Strategy 34:07 Mishandling of Child Sexual Abuse Allegations 40:04 Purpose of “He Said, She Said”   Links Connect with Dr. Charlotte Proudman: @drproudman on Instagram, X, and TikTok; https://www.charlotteproudman.com/team-4-1  (upcoming events for He Said She Said); https://www.amazon.co.uk/He-Said-She-Struggle-Justice/dp/1399612441Pre-order “He Said, She Said: Truth, Trauma and the Struggle for Justice in Family Court”   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

You think a vacation will give you a break, but with a narcissist, it often becomes something else entirely.   In this episode, I’m talking about what it’s really like to travel with a narcissist. I’ve seen it over and over again, what should be a time to relax turns into a carefully orchestrated setup for control, intimidation, and emotional exhaustion. If you’ve ever come home from a trip feeling more anxious, confused, or even physically sick, you’re not imagining it.   I walk through the subtle ways narcissistic abuse shows up while traveling like taking you somewhere they know you’ll hate, “forgetting” something important, or isolating you from your support system. These things might seem small on their own, but together, they create an environment that’s anything but safe.   I also share strategies you can use if you feel stuck saying yes to the trip. What can you do to feel more in control? How do you protect your energy when you’re trapped on a flight, stuck in a car, or stranded in a hotel? And most importantly, how do you start seeing the pattern for what it is?   If vacations have ever felt more like punishment than peace, this episode will help you understand why and give you a few tools to take with you, no matter where you go.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Why Travel with a Narcissist Feels So Different 03:04 Narcissistic Tactics and Control During Vacations 08:02 Real Examples of Manipulation on Trips 16:27 How Abuse Shows Up at the Airport and in Transit 22:01 On-Vacation Behavior: Control, Coercion, and Isolation 28:02 The Aftermath: Post-Trip Anxiety and Physical Illness 32:32 Long-Term Impact on How You Experience Travel 35:46 Strategies to Protect Yourself While Traveling 42:07 Grounding Techniques and Internal Boundaries   This marks our 50th podcast episode and to celebrate we are doing a special giveaway for our listeners!! I’ll be giving away my two workbooks, Find Your Calm and Find Good Habits, AND a Mindfully Messy hoodie to ONE lucky winner!  To enter, leave a review of Next Up: Narcissism AND  head over to my Instagram @dr.z_psychologist and comment “Happy50” on my celebrating 50 post. Entries close May 1, 2025 11:59pm. The winner will be announced and contacted May 2nd.   Links Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Starting over doesn’t always feel bold. Most of the time, it looks like picking up something familiar, like a book, a journal, or a forgotten dream, and doing it simply to feel like yourself again.   In this episode, I’m joined by Zibby Owens, an author, podcast host, and the founder of Zibby Media, who shares what it looked like to rebuild her life after divorce. At 40, with four young kids and weekends suddenly quiet, she didn’t launch into some grand reinvention. She started writing again. And then she kept going.   We talk about what happens when the life you’ve built no longer fits and how to begin again when everything feels uncertain. Zibby opens up about grief, rejection, single parenthood, and the slow return to her own identity. She shares how structure helped her move forward, how creativity gave her something to hold onto, and how including her kids in her work helped her feel more connected as both a parent and a person.   If you’re in a season of starting over, or even thinking about it, I think you’ll find this conversation both grounding and encouraging. Zibby’s story is a reminder that you don’t need to have it all figured out to begin. You just need one small step in the direction of who you are.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 04:05 Restarting Life After Divorce at 40 07:04 How Zibby Built a Media Career from Scratch 08:10 Living with Urgency and Purpose 12:08 Coping with Co-Parenting Grief 15:09 The Power of Small, Consistent Steps 17:04 Structure, Routine, and Mental Health 18:08 Reclaiming Identity After Motherhood 19:04 Involving Kids in Career and Purpose 23:35 Advice for Women Facing Divorce   Links Connect with Zibby Owens: https://www.instagram.com/zibbyowens/ zibbymedia.com https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/totally-booked-with-zibby/id1366633318   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

A car ride with a narcissist can quickly shift from routine to one of the most dangerous and controlling dynamics in the relationship.   In this episode, I’m talking about something I see all the time in my work: how narcissists use driving as a form of coercive control. The car becomes more than just a way to get from one place to another. It becomes a tool for power, manipulation, and fear. If you’ve ever felt anxious, unsafe, or completely stuck during what should be a simple drive, you’re not imagining it.   I share the patterns I hear from clients again and again: partners making them late on purpose, driving recklessly, refusing to hand over the keys, or locking the doors to prevent them from getting out. These aren’t accidents. These are tactics.   I also walk through real strategies you can use if you’re in this kind of situation. Things like not revealing how important an event is, finding alternate transportation when possible, and staying emotionally neutral when you’re being baited. They’re small steps, but they can help you take back a sense of control when everything else feels chaotic.   If any of this sounds familiar, I hope this episode helps you name it, and start finding ways to protect your time, your energy, and your autonomy.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  02:32 Significance of Driving in Narcissistic Abuse 04:00 Control and Independence in Driving 06:08 Ownership and Control of the Car 10:23 Reckless Driving to Instill Fear 12:22 Creating Fear and Providing Safety 15:06 Verbal and Physical Abuse in the Car 19:55 Limiting Access to a Car 21:21 Identifying Patterns of Abuse 22:53 Strategies to Regain Control 25:56 Concrete Behaviors to Counter Manipulation   Links Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Many people raised by toxic parents or caregivers don’t always recognize the abuse present in their upbringing. It’s often not until their adult relationships begin to break apart that they become aware of the abusive behavior patterns repeating from their childhood.    In this episode, I’m joined by mental health advocate and best-selling author Josh Connolly for a powerful and honest conversation about what toxic parenting really looks like and its lasting impact. We talk about parents’ refusal to take accountability, how dysfunction gets passed off as the family “norm,” and why adult children carry guilt and shame about something they were once powerless to change.    Josh discusses his use of  the word “toxic,” and how emotional abuse often flies under the radar. Josh also explains his “body first” approach to recovery, including how reconnecting with your body—and using tools like breathwork—can help regulate your nervous system and make space for emotional clarity.   We tackle the popular notion of having to forgive in order to move forward, offering our explanation as to why this is not always the case, and discuss the difference between forgiveness and acceptance .   If you’ve experienced an upbringing within the context of toxic parenting, and as a result, have difficulty trusting your own internal experiences, or feel guilty for setting boundaries, you’ll find this episode incredibly validating.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  03:06 Breathwork and Nervous System Regulation 05:23 Understanding Empathy and Boundaries 07:55 Defining Toxic Parents 09:00 Emotional Abuse and Power Dynamics 12:00 Misdiagnosis and Appropriate Reactions 17:10 Appropriate Reactions to Dysfunctional Environments 19:27 The Issue of Forgiveness 24:01 The Dangers of Pushing Forgiveness 27:06 Realizing the Truth About Toxic Upbringings 32:05 The Importance of Being Held and Supported 35:13 Josh Connolly’s Book: Purpose and Content 42:06 The Importance of Truth and Authenticity   Links Connect with Josh Connolly: https://www.instagram.com/josh_ffw/ https://www.facebook.com/joshffw https://www.tiktok.com/@josh_ffw https://twitter.com/josh_ffw https://www.youtube.com/c/JoshConnolly_FFW   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Some betrayals do more than take money. They shatter trust in ways that can never fully be repaired. I sat down with Charlie Webster, the host, producer and writer of the top international podcast, Scamanda, to break down the shocking deception behind the story and the emotional damage it left behind.   Amanda Riley didn’t just lie about having cancer. She built an entire identity around it. She shaved her head, posted hospital photos, and wrote heartfelt blog updates, all while collecting over $100,000 in donations. But what makes someone go to such extremes? And how does that kind of deception affect the people who believed in her?   Charlie shared what it was like to uncover Amanda’s story, exposing how someone so seemingly normal managed to fool so many for so long. We explored the psychology behind these kinds of lies—why people are drawn to them, how victims struggle to process the betrayal, and what Amanda’s case reveals about manipulation, trust, and the stories we tell ourselves.   We also talked about Amanda’s husband, Corey. Did he know? Should he have? And what does this entire saga say about the way we judge people based on the image they present?   If you’ve ever felt deceived, questioned your instincts, or wondered how far someone would go for validation, this episode will make you think twice about what we choose to believe and why.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  05:01 The Complexity of Human Behavior in Scamanda 07:11 The Intrigue of Amanda Riley’s Story 10:47 The Emotional Impact on Victims 15:01 The Relatability and Extremity of Amanda’s Actions 18:01 The Nuances of Amanda’s Deception 23:32 Amanda Riley’s Identity and Motivation 30:43 The Function of Dysfunctional Behaviors 36:03 The Reality of Amanda’s Actions and Empathy 38:31 The Importance of Public Awareness 41:07 Why Amanda Agreed to Speak with Charlie   Links Watch Scamanda Hulu https://www.hulu.com/series/f4ec2a4c-e234-4658-8728-1d17d1725b89 Watch Scamanda on ABC https://abc.com/show/1056ec91-9c44-4671-ae98-3c9feb3f35b3 Listen to Scamanda podcast wherever you get your podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scamanda/id1685691481   Connect with Charlie Webster: Instagram @charliewebster Website www.charliewebster.com Why It’s OK to Talk About Trauma book https://amzn.to/41F5OUy   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Coercive control is about trying to take away someone’s autonomy and agency. It’s a form of domestic abuse that is often misunderstood and frequently dismissed. In this replay episode, I sit down with the incredible Laura Richards—renowned criminal behavioral analyst and expert on domestic violence—to break it all down.   Laura and I discuss the misuse of terms like “narcissistic abuse” and “toxic relationships,” and why getting the terminology right is critical. When these words are misapplied, it can cause real harm, making it harder for victims to recognize what’s happening to them and for others to take it seriously. We also talk about the broader societal factors that allow domestic violence to persist and why these patterns are so deeply embedded.   We take a closer look at high-profile cases like Gabby Petito and Lauren Dunne Astley to illustrate how coercive control plays out in real life and the devastating consequences it can have. Laura also sheds light on how the media often memorializes male perpetrators while subtly placing blame on victims, a pattern that continues to fuel dangerous misconceptions.   Beyond analyzing the problem, Laura shares the incredible work she’s doing to have coercive control legally recognized as a form of domestic abuse. She explains why advocacy, education, and legal reform are essential to protecting victims and shifting the way society understands domestic violence.   This is an eye-opening conversation, and one I hope will help others recognize coercive control for what it is.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  02:29 Defining Narcissistic Abuse and Toxic Relationships 04:15 Misuse of the Term “Narcissist” 06:17 Psychopathy and Domestic Violence 09:04 Violent Resistance in Domestic Violence 11:43 Breakup Violence and Coercive Control 18:29 Gender Roles and Social Conditioning 26:15 Recognizing Non-Obvious Patterns of Abuse 30:18 Devaluation and Pedestalization in Relationships 33:56 Concept of Unfreedom in Coercive Control 38:50 Insidious Nature of Coercive Control 41:06 Cultural and Traditional Reinforcement of Male Privilege 47:35 Legal Recognition of Coercive Control Connect with Laura Richards: https://www.youtube.com/@crimeanalyst https://www.crime-analyst.com https://wondery.com/shows/real-crime-profile/ www.thelaurarichards.com https://www.dashriskchecklist.com/ Insta: https://www.instagram.com/laurarichards999/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/crimeanalyst/?hl=en TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crimeanalystpod?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurarichards99 https://twitter.com/thecrimeanalyst   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   The Z Group is now accepting patients nationwide! (Some state exclusions apply). Schedule here: https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/new-patient-form Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop Mindfully Messy and Make Mistakes hoodies here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Healing from narcissistic abuse isn’t just about moving on. It’s about rebuilding who you are and learning to trust yourself again.   In this episode, I’m answering your questions on what it takes to heal, navigate life after a narcissistic relationship, and co-parent in a way that gives your children stability. If dating again feels impossible or you find yourself second-guessing every new relationship, you’re not alone. Narcissistic abuse erodes your sense of self, and I’ll explain why taking time before jumping into something new is one of the best things you can do for your healing.   Leaving a narcissist isn’t just difficult. It requires a plan. I’ll share why revealing your intentions too soon can put you at risk, how to prepare emotionally and financially, and what to expect when dealing with high-conflict custody battles. I’ll also break down how narcissistic traits can be passed down through emotionally immature parenting and what you can do to help your children develop a healthy sense of self.   If you’re struggling to move forward, wondering if you’ll ever feel like yourself again, or trying to co-parent with someone who thrives on chaos, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about how to take your power back.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 01:13 Answering Listener Questions 01:55 How to Flirt After Healing from Heartbreak 03:00 Trust Issues Post-Narcissistic Relationship 05:07 Importance of Not Dating Immediately After Breakup 06:12 Reestablishing Sense of Self 08:18 Misinterpreting Behaviors in New Dates 11:09 Staying Present While Dating 12:34 Maintaining Sense of Self in New Relationships 13:49 First Steps After Telling Narcissistic Spouse About Divorce 18:04 Differences Between Narcissistic and Toxic Breakups 20:00 Emotional Immaturity in Parents 23:00 Learned Behaviors vs. Narcissistic Personality Disorder 24:17 Accountability and Change 26:03 Narcissistic Tendencies in Children 27:08 Supporting a Loved One Dating a Narcissist 28:00 Isolation Tactics by Narcissists 30:29 Co-Parenting with a Narcissist 33:45 Demonstrating Healthy Boundaries 36:06 Closing    Links Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Can AI ever replace the human connection at the heart of therapy, or are we losing something essential in the process?   I’m sitting down with my friend and colleague Dr. Sue Varma to talk about something that’s been on my mind. Artificial intelligence is making its way into mental health, offering quick answers and structured advice. But can it truly replace the depth of human interaction? Sue shares why the connection between a therapist and client isn’t just helpful. It’s the foundation of real change.   We also dig into some common misconceptions about therapy. Many people think it’s just talking instead of an active process of insight and growth. Sue introduces her “four M’s of mental health”—mindfulness, movement, meaningful engagement, and mastery. These simple habits help us stay grounded in an increasingly digital world.   As AI continues to reshape mental health care, how do we embrace new tools without losing what makes therapy work? Let’s get into it.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  03:09 Dr. Sue Varma’s Background and Book 04:21 AI in Mental Health: Introduction 05:04 Positives of AI in Mental Health 08:18 Concerns About AI and Human Connection 09:11 Cultural Sensitivity in AI Responses 11:12 Importance of Patient History in Therapy 14:02 Physical and Behavioral Observations in Therapy 17:02 Challenges of AI in Diagnosing Personality Disorders 20:02 Therapeutic Relationship and Rapport 23:10 Misconceptions About Therapy 26:03 Future of AI in Psychiatry and Psychology 27:06 Staying Grounded and Optimistic Amidst AI Advances 28:53 Four M’s of Mental Health 31:09 Closing   Links Connect with Dr. Sue Varma: IG, FB, Twitter: @doctorsuevarma https://www.instagram.com/doctorsuevarma/ Website: www.doctorsuevarma.com Practical Optimism https://amzn.to/4hQdrxT   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Power and control shaped Diddy’s rise, but did they also define a long-standing pattern of abuse? Emmy-winning journalist Mara S. Campo joins Dr. Z to unpack the allegations, the fallout, and what it means when survivors finally feel safe enough to speak out.     Mara, a contributor to the docuseries “Fall of Diddy,” shares what stood out most—the sheer weight of the stories, the patterns that surfaced long before fame, and the emotional toll of confronting uncomfortable truths. How do we reconcile admiration for a cultural icon with the reality of horrific accusations? What happens when the image we once celebrated no longer holds up?     This episode isn’t just about Diddy. It’s about the power dynamics that keep survivors silent, the fear that stops them from coming forward, and the cultural shift toward believing survivors.   Quotes “When I first read Cassie’s lawsuit, I will say this is the worst civil suit I have ever read.” (05:11 | Mara S. Campo)  “My heart just breaks because I’m thinking about how young this woman was at the time. And now, I’m in my mid-40s, I’m a mom. And I just think about where I was at that place in my life when I was her age.” (08:44 | Mara S. Campo)  “I think a lot of times when we see these powerful men getting in trouble, people come forward with these awful allegations. Sometimes you have to wonder, was it the power in the money that maybe corrupted them or did that empower them to be able to behave in this way?” (11:23 | Mara S. Campo) “There's kind of a grieving that takes place if you’re someone who loved Bad Boy and everything that it stood for and everything that it brought to the world. And for me, personally, that has absolutely been the case because I grew up on Bad Boy.” (23:15 | Mara S. Campo)  “It’s important not to discredit those who have the courage to come forward, to listen, to hear, and to really have a lot of compassion.” (27:21 | Mara S. Campo) “The idea that there’s a statute of limitations on sexual assault to me is bananas. There should not be a statute of limitations on sexual assault because it takes victims years to process, to feel empowered enough to confront their abuser.” (31:10 | Mara S. Campo)   Links The Fall of Diddy: https://www.max.com/shows/fall-of-diddy/a4d15a65-9071-43b9-abd8-ad905928743a   Connect with Mara S. Campo: IG: @marascampo https://www.instagram.com/marascampo/ TikTok: @marascampo https://www.tiktok.com/@marascampo YouTube: Mara S Campo https://www.youtube.com/@MaraSCampo Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Toxic productivity convinces you that your worth is tied to achievement. But when does ambition turn into exhaustion?   Dr. Z sits down with psychotherapist and author Israa Nasir to talk about why so many people feel trapped in the endless pursuit of doing more. Israa explains how productivity has seeped into every part of life—relationships, self-worth, even rest—turning what should be fulfilling into something depleting. She breaks down how to recognize the signs of toxic productivity, why the inner critic fuels it, and what it takes to step off the hamster wheel without guilt.   They also explore the deeper forces at play, from family dynamics to cultural expectations, and challenge the belief that success means pushing harder at all costs. Israa shares ways to shift your mindset, including a simple life audit to reclaim your time and energy. And maybe the most surprising takeaway? Letting yourself just be “good enough” might be the key to a healthier, happier life!   Quotes “Productivity doesn’t just refer to work. In our hustle-oriented world, productivity is a measure of love, relationships, personal health, personal growth. All of these domains of our life have been now kind of wrapped with this productivity-oriented mindset.” (04:33 | Israa Nasir) “If your intention is arbitrary, outside, external, that is a big red flag that what you’re pursuing is unhealthy.” (07:48 | Israa Nasir) “The inner critic is often trying to protect us from pain. Its methods are to scare you so that you don’t do anything. So the inner critic will terrify you of trying new things by telling you that you’re a failure. Because what it’s trying to do is protect you from the pain of putting yourself out there.” (24:03 | Israa Nasir) “We are so friggin’ dynamic. Like we are these multifaceted, complex-brained individuals on this earth... and we’re all just like, ‘Oh no, I have to be married before 30.’ What a distillation of a beautiful, beautiful life that we’ve been given.” (36:16 | Israa Nasir) “Can you embrace being mediocre somewhere? Can you find a good enough point for everything? Just a good enough point for this email, a good enough point for the workout, a good enough point for the type of friendships you have. Find the good enough point, and then anything beyond that is extra.” (45:27 | Israa Nasir)    Links Connect with Israa Nasir: www.israanasir.com Toxic Productivity:https://amzn.to/3C8e9Yg Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/well.guide/   Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

A narcissistic parent’s love is often conditional, forcing the child into roles like the golden child or scapegoat child, with often devastating emotional consequences. In this episode, Dr. Z explores how these roles are defined, how they shift over time, and the impact they have on self identity and relationship dynamics.    The golden child is often the one who is praised and favored. Not out of love, but because they meet the narcissist’s needs and demands—until they don’t. The scapegoat child, meanwhile, shoulders the blame and accountability for those in the family, constantly striving for validation that never comes. These roles, as Dr. Z reveals, aren’t static; they can shift based on the parent’s changing demands, creating further confusion and harm.   Dr. Z sheds light on how to break free from these toxic dynamics. Through boundaries, therapy, and reclaiming your narrative, it’s possible to build a healthier, more independent sense of self. If you’re someone who’s navigating the complexities of a narcissistic parent-child relationship, this episode offers clarity, empathy, and tools to take the first step forward.   Quotes “A narcissist does not love their children in the way that you and I think about loving our children. It is not unconditional. It is very much conditional.” (06:00 | Dr. Z) “The golden child isn’t the child that’s loved the most. In fact, it has nothing to do with that. They’re not loved the most. They’re not really loved in the way that you and I think so.” (07:01 | Dr. Z) “The scapegoat child is always responsible for managing the parent’s emotions. The scapegoat child is responsible for pretty much ‘anything that goes wrong.’” (19:13 | Dr. Z)  “Once you realize that the narrative you have been sold is not yours to own, the narcissist loses an incredible amount of control and power over you that they will never get back. Because once you see it, you can’t unsee it.” (27:01 | Dr. Z) “There is a difference between having a toxic relationship with your parent, because you don’t get along, you don’t see eye to eye, you butt heads, you have different values, different opinions, different morals even. There’s a difference with that. And what goes on with a narcissistic parent, they are different.” (33:21 | Dr. Z)   Links Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

When everyone’s a “narcissist,” what happens to the voices of those truly living through narcissistic abuse? Dr. Z unpacks the misuse of terms like “narcissist” and “narcissistic personality disorder” and how this trend erodes their meaning, which leaves survivors feeling silenced and misunderstood. She explains how narcissistic abuse often hides behind charm and subtle manipulation, making it harder to recognize, and even harder to explain.    How do we spot the red flags? How do we support others without dismissing their pain? Dr. Z answers these questions with clarity, compassion, and insights that will help you better understand this misunderstood topic.   Quotes “I need people to understand that when somebody has narcissistic personality disorder, the abuse that goes on in those relationships is on a level that you will not be able to understand unless you have gone through it yourself or unless you specialize in treating it.” (06:27 | Dr. Z) “Narcissists are all abusive. Somebody with narcissistic personality disorder is always going to be abusive, whether it’s physical, sexual, financial, emotional, psychological, it doesn’t matter, but they will always be abusive. Not everybody who’s toxic is a narcissist.” (07:24 | Dr. Z) “Please don’t minimize the stories of others because you don’t understand. You don’t need to understand to be supportive.” (16:21 | Dr. Z) “Love bombing isn’t always a dozen roses every day or luxurious gifts. It’s basically whatever you value most, whatever you’re most passionate about—that is what the narcissist is going to attach onto in the beginning of the relationship.” (17:55 | Dr. Z)  “You are not obligated to stay connected to somebody who not only is abusive, but who knows they’re abusive and doesn’t care that it’s hurting you as long as they get their needs met.” (32:21 | Dr. Z)    Links Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Shop the Dr. Z x StickerBeans Collab that gives back to The Mental Health Coalition: https://stickerbeans.com/collections/new-stickers/products/be-you-set-of-3?variant=45650452119801 Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Narcissists don’t just take what they want—they dismantle their targets in the process.   In this episode, Dr. Z welcomes filmmaker and author Mark Vicente to discuss the dark realities of narcissistic abuse and its psychological aftermath. Known for his work on HBO’s  “The Vow” and his upcoming documentary “Empathy Not Included: The Narcissist’s Playbook,” Mark sheds light on the manipulative behaviors of narcissists, the vulnerabilities they exploit, and the emotional fallout experienced by the survivors of their abuse.    Mark reflects on his personal journey of healing after being entangled with NXIVM, offering profound insight into how narcissists mirror their victims' deepest desires and vulnerabilities as a means to control them.  He also unpacks the chilling reality of how some narcissists knowingly cause harm—and sometimes even revel in it.   Dr. Z and Mark touch on the broader implications of narcissism in society, from media manipulation to cultural denial of the harm narcissists can cause. Whether you’re seeking to understand narcissistic abuse or rebuild after trauma, this episode offers a compassionate and empowering perspective.   Quotes "One of the things I learned as I began learning about what narcissism is and is not, I recognize that there was a certain place that people bumped up against. Most normal empathic people cannot imagine that these people exist." (04:47 | Mark Vicente) “They were doing the work of masking the evil. And this is what we do. We don't want to live in that world because we want to live in this kind of fairy tale where good things happen to good people. To have it be true that there is a version of evil that's not like a Disney version, like a really, really dark version is so destabilizing to the psyche.” (09:56 | Mark Vicente) “The thing about psychopaths that's so interesting is that they analyze us very unemotionally. and they learn about the way our data works, so to speak." (16:15 | Mark Vicente) “People sometimes can't tell, they think it's excitement and it is, but sometimes that excitement is tinged with fear and desperation. And I always say when you're in that state with somebody, especially at the beginning, run. Because your cognitive thinking is going offline.” (20:26 | Mark Vicente) “When you're mapping the mind of an insane person, it does damage to you. And when you're mapping a psychopath, it's very confusing. It starts to do a lot of bad things to you internally, psychologically.” (26:11 | Mark Vicente) “I think feeling like a victim is a good phase. I think rage is so important. I mean, I can't tell you how many people, when we were waking up, I feel like there were certain psychologists who didn't understand how this worked, that would say things to us like, your anger's not sustainable. And I was like, it's sustainable as long as I need it.” (53:37 | Mark Vicente)   Links Connect with Mark Vicente: https://www.markvicente.com/ https://www.instagram.com/markvicente/ https://x.com/markvicente https://www.empathynotincluded.com/ https://www.instagram.com/empathynotincluded/ Podcast: WTF is on my Mind?! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wtf-is-on-my-mind/id1646783869 YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@markvicente7 Connect with Dr. Z: https://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/ https://www.zgrouptherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.z_psychologist/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.z_psychologist https://www.youtube.com/@DrJaimeZuckerman   Get my FREE breathing exercise here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/newsletter Register for my on demand virtual courses here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/workshops Order my workbooks! *Find Your Calm / Find Good Habits* http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/books Shop my new Mindfully Messy hoodie here: http://www.drjaimezuckerman.com/apparel Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm