Have you ever shown up to a “free” event only to realize it came with strings attached? In this episode of The Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Podcast, we explore how even community gatherings have become transactional—and what that says about the culture we’re living in.

We examine:

• Why “free” events often come with hidden agendas—and how that mirrors narcissistic manipulation
• How the ideology of “everything is a transaction” has crept into relationships, friendships, and even acts of service
• The emotional toll of being seen as a resource instead of a human being
• How narcissism has become so embedded in our culture that exploitation is now disguised as connection
• What it means to live small, opt out, and create your own community outside the system

This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt like they were being marketed to instead of cared for. If you’ve sensed that even kindness has become commodified, this conversation will help you name the discomfort—and reclaim your right to live with intention, not exploitation.

🔗 Explore More:

🌐 Visit the Website:

https://movingforwardafterabuse.com

Explore free resources, articles, survivor tools, and deep-dive content to help you reclaim your power and heal from narcissistic abuse.

📚 Read the Books by Lynn:

https://movingforwardafterabuse.com/books-by-lynn/

Check out Lynn’s powerful books on narcissistic abuse recovery, manipulation tactics, and the emotional journey of healing. Perfect for survivors ready to take their next step.

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Follow our work beyond the podcast: We publish essays and insights on Medium through our Moving Forward with Hope publication, and you can also find additional content and community updates on our Substack. Join us there to go deeper, connect with others, and support the movement.

Narcissistic Abuse Recovery PodcastHosted by trauma-informed coach & author Lynn, this podcast helps survivors of narcissistic abuse uncover covert manipulation, set boundaries, and reclaim their voice. From family roles to patriarchy, we explore how personal healing intersects with cultural change.🌐 Links & resources: linktr.ee/lynnnichols☕ Support the show: buymeacoffee.com/waketheelephant📚 Books by Lynn: Overcoming the Devastation of Narcissistic Abuse & Master Manipulators

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