Surviving Toxic Relationships Podcast (Formerly The Matadoras, No More Bull Podcast)
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.
Episodes
53 episodes
Episode #53: I Think I Want Out; The 5 Stages of Marital Breakdown
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, Th...
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Season 1
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Episode 53
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51:22
Episode #52; Forgiveness vs Reconciliation: Why You Can Let Go Without Going Back
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 ...
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Season 1
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Episode 52
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25:52
Episode #51: Healing From Narcissistic Abuse: Red Flags, Boundaries, and Reclaiming Self Worth
SummaryIn 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 t...
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Season 1
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Episode 51
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51:08
Episode #50: Emotional Healing & Nervous System Reset After Abuse
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 ...
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Season 1
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Episode 50
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29:28
Episode #49: Toxic Dating & Red Flags: An LMFT's Survival Guide
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 ove...
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38:20
Episode #48: The Matadoras Origin Story; 2 Ex Wives Unveil A Narcissists Double Life & Protect The Next Victim
In this episode of the Matadoras No More Bull podcast, Lizzie and Deana share their personal journeys of escaping toxic relationships and the importance of healing. They discuss the challenges of recognizing abusive patterns, the impact of dece...
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Season 1
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Episode 48
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10:17
Episode #47: Do You Have Healthy Boundaries? 6 Keys To Building Healthy Boundaries
In this brief episode, Deana and Lizzie discuss the importance of setting boundaries for personal well-being and empowerment. They explore the signs of unhealthy boundaries, the steps to becoming a 'boundary boss', and the significance of self-...
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Season 1
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Episode 47
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8:56
Episode #46; Breaking The Generational Cycle of Trauma; Tina's Journey of Forgiveness and Self Love
In this conversation, Tina shares her profound journey from a traumatic childhood marked by abuse and a cult-like upbringing to a path of healing and self-discovery. She discusses the impact of generational trauma, the challenges of recognizing...
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32:00
Episode #45; Narcissistic Abuse: How to Recover & Heal (Strategies for Survivors) with Katherine Miura LMFT
In this conversation, Katherine Miura, an author and marriage and family therapist, shares her personal journey of overcoming narcissistic abuse and her mission to help others heal from similar experiences. She discusses the complexities of nar...
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Season 1
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Episode 45
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29:55
Episode #44: The Red Flags Of Suicide Manipulation; Surviving Manipulation Abuse
In this episode, The Matadoras delve into the complex and often misunderstood topic of emotional abuse through suicide manipulation. They share personal stories, discuss the red flags of manipulation, and provide practical advice on how to resp...
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Season 1
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Episode 44
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18:27
Episode #43: You Can't Make This Sh*t Up! Laughing Through The Narcissistic Nightmare
In this engaging conversation, the Matadoras and special guest Jennifer, share their personal stories of navigating relationships with narcissistic individuals. They explore the complexities of narcissistic personalities, recount their experien...
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Episode 43
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43:37
Episode #42: Interview with Dr. Sam Vaknin, Professor of Psychology; Breaking the Manipulation & Aggression Cycle
In this engaging episode, Dr. Sam Vaknin, a renowned expert on narcissism, author, and Professor of Psychology provides invaluable insights into the warning signs of abusive behavior, the psychological tactics employed by abusers, and effective...
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Season 1
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Episode 42
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49:26
Episode #41: The Power Shift: Recognizing & Breaking Free from the Victim Role
In this conversation, Lizzie and Deana explore the concept of victim mentality, discussing its origins, signs, and how it manifests in relationships and life circumstances. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and breaking free from thi...
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41:26
Episode #40; The Lonely Dark; Finding Your Way Out of Depression.
In this conversation, Deana and Lizzie discuss the profound themes of grief, loneliness, and depression, particularly as they navigate personal struggles and the importance of vulnerability. They share their experiences and insights on how to c...
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Season 1
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Episode 40
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42:33
Episode #39: The Weight Of "What If's"-Navigating Grief, Loss & Regret
In this episode of The Matadoras, hosts Deana and Lizzie delve into the complex and often painful topic of grief. They share personal stories of loss, including the impact of losing friends and family members, and discuss the various ways indiv...
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Season 1
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Episode 39
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38:50
Episode #38: 3 Critical Elements To Move You From Confused To Confident
In this conversation, Bre Wolta, a relationship clarity coach, shares her personal journey of healing from a toxic relationship and the essential elements needed for recovery. She emphasizes the importance of clarity, feeling, and connection in...
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Season 1
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Episode 38
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46:06
Episode #37: Safe Holidays, Strong Families
Join Lizzie and Deana as they address the challenges faced during the holiday season, particularly for those in abusive relationships, those who are separated, and those with blended families. We discuss the increase in domestic violence during...
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Season 1
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Episode 37
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21:32
Episode #36: Hidden Harm; The Enablers Role In Abuse
Ever thought about the role an abuser's friends and family play in the cycle of harm? Join us with returning guests Tiffany and Alexis as they reveal their powerful stories of re-victimization—not just from the abuser, but from those who stood ...
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Season 1
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Episode 36
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43:29
Episode #35: Bright Minds, Dark Deceptions: How Even the Smartest Get Fooled by Narcissists
Join us today for Jen's story. Jen is a highly accomplished, ultra bright PH.D educator who fell for a Narc. Her message to you is that it doesn't matter how smart or educated you are....we all have vulnerabilities! ...
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Season 1
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Episode 35
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1:20:22
Episode #34: Are You Aligning With Your Ideal Self, Or Stuck In Your Lowest Habits?
What gives you value? What makes you feel proud of yourself? What do you do that makes you feel confident? What actions in your life cause you to hate who you are? Are there areas in your life that rob you of becoming ...
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Season 1
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Episode 34
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31:29
Episode #33: Beating The Narc At His Own Game-Trish's Story
Join Lizzie and I with our special guest Trish from "The TLC". Trish shares her story about being in an abusive relationship, and having to plan her exit for years in order to leave safely, and with the ability to support herself &am...
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Season 1
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Episode 33
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39:10
Episode #32: My Ex Tracked Me, Stalked Me, And Hired People To Hurt Me (So Why Am I Thankful?)
Join Lizzie and I to uncover Sally's riveting story of the Ex who did everything he could to isolate, dominate, and control her, even hiring a hit man posing as a landscaper, to end her life. After all of this horrible-ness, Sally is actu...
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Season 1
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Episode 32
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57:57
Episode #31: Want A New Life? Time For New Choices
Today's special guest is Sam from SafeHeart Connections. Sam shares her deeply painful story of low self-esteem and vulnerability, which led her to continually choose unhealthy, abusive relationships. Join us for this beautiful tale of ho...
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Season 1
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Episode 31
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43:39
Episode #30: Calming The Stress Hormones To Lose The Weight!
Are you experiencing a high stress life? Do you crave sugary, fatty foods? Have you gained weight and nothing seems to help? Does your appetite feel out of control? Join Deana and Lizzie for this informative episode, th...
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Season 1
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Episode 30
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38:04
Episode #29: Afraid To Date, And I Don't Need Anyone- Hyper-independence
Have you found yourself terrified at the thought of ever dating again? Do you avoid creating new relationships or friendships? Join Lizzie and Deana as they discuss Hyper-independence, which is the opposite of co-dependency, but ca...
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Season 1
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Episode 29
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44:17