The most dangerous abusers aren’t always loud. Sometimes they appear kind, generous, and adored—until the door closes. In this episode, Ingrid sits down with Mia Hanks, author and survivor of covert narcissistic abuse, to unpack life with a narcissist: from the dizzying highs of love bombing to the slow drain of gaslighting, blame-shifting, and identity erasure.

Mia shares practical tools for recognizing abuse, why couples therapy can backfire, and how to safely plan a low-contact exit. She also explores the messy, hopeful work of rebuilding: reclaiming your voice, making independent choices, and finding freedom after abuse.

If you or someone you love is navigating narcissistic abuse, this episode offers validation, guidance, and red flags to watch.

Mia’s links:

https://www.1in3podcast.com/guests/mia-hanks/

https://miajhanks.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHp52nlNorg

https://www.instagram.com/npd.andme/

https://www.amazon.com/Bride-Made-Memoir-Mia-J-Hanks/dp/B0CVC322MF/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.loREoGm50wrUS4v546Y8eKVjM5nQbYpFDitnLmtuIHwXuuS0AATtGKvUqvzg-oalCZuLRigPdqPUkta4OiWzSg.nsfFC9-W7XAl_LEEZgPdfcZMv8SlXPmXvNVFVtshnkc&qid=1752202383&sr=8-1

https://www.tiktok.com/@npdandme

1 in 3 is intended for mature audiences. Episodes contain explicit content and may be triggering to some.

Support the show

If you are in the United States and need help right now, call the national domestic violence hotline at 800-799-7233 or text the word “start” to 88788.

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Thank you for listening!

Cover art by Laura Swift Dahlke
Music by Tim Crowe