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Episode 6: Shatter Your Illusions of Love
Starting Rumours: My Life as a Mockstar
In this episode, the fantasy finally cracks.
Shatter Your Illusions of Love is about the moment you realize that what you thought was love was actually control, confusion, and carefully constructed chaos. It’s about the slow unraveling—the gaslighting, the emotional whiplash, the way your instincts keep whispering something isn’t right even when everything looks fine on the outside.
I talk about how narcissistic abuse doesn’t arrive loudly. It arrives charming. Convincing. Disarming. And how easy it is to lose yourself while trying to hold onto a version of love that was never real to begin with.
This episode is not about blame. It’s about clarity.
About trusting your inner voice again.
About naming what hurt you so it no longer owns you.
If any part of this episode feels familiar, you’re not weak—and you’re not alone.
*This episode includes discussion of emotional abuse, narcissistic relationships, and the impact of prolonged manipulation. While details are shared thoughtfully, some listeners may find parts of this conversation sensitive.
Please listen in a way that feels safe for you. You’re welcome to pause, skip ahead, or come back to this episode at another time. Support resources are listed in the episode description if you need them.*
Support & Resources
If you or someone you love needs support, help is available:
- WannaTalkAboutIt
A peer-support community focused on healing, validation, and connection around abuse, trauma, and mental health.
Find them on Instagram: @wannatalkaboutit - National Domestic Violence Hotline
📞 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
💬 Chat available via their website
🕒 24/7, confidential support - RAINN (Sexual Assault & Abuse Support)
📞 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
💬 Online chat available
🕒 24/7, confidential - 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
📞 Dial or text 988
🕒 24/7 support for emotional distress, crisis, or thoughts of self-harm - Narcissistic Abuse & Trauma Recovery Resources
- Psychology Today: articles on narcissistic abuse and trauma bonding
- Dr. Ramani Durvasula’s work on narcissistic abuse recovery
- Trauma-informed therapists specializing in emotional abuse and CPTSD
If you’re in immediate danger, please contact local emergency services.
You didn’t imagine it.
You didn’t “love wrong.”
And you don’t have to carry it alone anymore.
Thank you for listening to Starting Rumours: My Life as a Mockstar. Follow, share, and leave a review to help the show reach more listeners.
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© 2025 Mekenzie Zimmerman. All rights reserved.
