Surviving Toxic Relationships Podcast with The Matadoras

Episode #85: When Toxic Families Turn on You

Elizabeth Jane and Deana Lynn Episode 85

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0:00 | 35:27

This episode is for anyone who has ever asked:
 “Why am I still paying the price for someone else’s abuse?”

In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, hosts Deana and Lizzie sit down with Joni Woods, a certified life coach, culture strategist, and founder of Journey Coaching, to discuss what happens after you leave a toxic or narcissistic relationship—especially when the family system turns against you.

Joni shares her deeply personal story of surviving narcissistic abuse, navigating a contentious divorce, and enduring the devastating aftermath when her ex-husband passed away and his family turned their anger toward her and her children. What followed was court battles, emotional trauma, and the painful reality of watching her children suffer collateral damage from unresolved bitterness and manipulation.

Together, we explore:

  • How narcissistic abuse impacts children long after a relationship ends
  • Why toxic family systems often protect the abuser
  • The emotional intelligence skills survivors need to heal and lead their families forward
  • How to communicate boundaries without guilt or fear
  • Recognizing when you’re staying out of fear instead of safety or truth
  • What it looks like to parent through trauma with honesty and resilience

If you are a survivor of emotional abuse, narcissistic relationships, or family trauma—and you’re trying to protect your children while rebuilding your life—this conversation will leave you feeling seen, validated, and empowered.

You can find Joni Woods and her work through the link below.

https://journeylifecoaching.life/

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Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.