Family Disappeared
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Family Disappeared episodes

  • Systemic Parental Alienation, Family Hierarchy & Survival w/ Dr. Azzopardi Part 1 - Episode 121

    Lawrence Joss explores the deeper systemic roots of parental alienation, revealing how alienation unfolds gradually through subtle family dynamics rather than appearing overnight. He and Dr. Charlie unpack how cultural norms, family structures, and early relational patterns shape the roles parents step into, and how those roles can quietly shift power, boundaries, and attachment inside the family system.

    Key Takeaways

    • Parental alienation is a gradual process.
    • Negative talk about a parent is common in relationships.
    • Cultural norms influence parenting roles significantly.
    • In some cultures, mothers are primarily caregivers.
    • Fathers often take on structural roles in parenting.
    • Understanding alienation requires a cultural lens.
    • Parental roles can vary widely across different societies.
    • The dynamics of family relationships are complex.
    • Emotional care is often seen as a mother's role.
    • Structural care is typically associated with fathers.

    Chapters

    0:00 – Safety, Survival & Early Alienation Patterns
     2:05 – What the Systemic Lens Reveals
     5:40 – When Problems Become Relational
     9:20 – Cultural & Structural Pressures on Families
     11:55 – Alienation as a Gradual Process
     14:40 – Boundary Breakdowns & Role Confusion
     17:55 – Power Shifts: Children Elevated to Partner Role
     21:25 – Why Kids Choose the Unpredictable Parent
     25:40 – Subtle Behaviors That Shift Family Hierarchy
     28:30 – Parentification & Emotional Oversharing
     31:55 – Long-Term Effects on Attachment & Identity
     35:50 – Attraction Patterns & the Drama Triangle

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss
    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Connect with Dr Charlie Azzopardi:
    Website: https://ift-malta.com/⁩
    Courses (IFT Malta): https://ift-malta.com/courses-2/
    European Journal of Parental Alienation (EJPAP):
    https://ift-malta.com/elementor-1206/

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom part

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    38 min
  • Shadow Work & Inner Child Co-Regulation w/ Dr. Nima Rahmany Part 2 - Episode 120

    In this highly anticipated Part 2, Lawrence Joss and Dr. Nima Rahmany explore the unconscious dynamics that make relationships feel like a painful dance, especially in the context of family conflict and parental alienation. Dr. Rahmany breaks down the tension between the two core relational fears, abandonment and engulfment, that create the exhausting push-pull pattern in partnerships, and with your children.

    Key Takeaways

    • Many of us were born into cultures and societies where we had to choose attachment over our authentic truth.
    • We are conditioned to fawn for safety.
    • Fawning is a performative self abandonment that we do to feel safe.
    • The codependent is the one that fawns, abandoning themselves for attachment.
    • Deep down, every time you fawn, there's a little resentment towards the person you're fawning.
    • People pleasing is a response that can lead to losing one's identity.
    • Clients often express that they don't even know who they are anymore due to people pleasing.
    • Cultural conditioning plays a significant role in shaping our behaviors.
    • Self-abandonment can lead to unhealthy relationship dynamics.
    • Understanding these patterns is crucial for personal growth.

    Chapters
    0:00 - Abandonment Meets Engulfment: The Cycle
    0:25 - Mission, Community, and Parental Alienation Support
    3:20 - Living the Pain and Grief of Alienation
    5:10 - Defining The Push-Pull Pattern
    8:15 - Becoming Trigger-Proof And Repair
    10:25 - Enmeshment And Boundary Walls
    12:07 - Alienation As A Repeating Pattern
    18:05 - Shadow Work and Owning the Parts We Hide
    23:35 - Authenticity And Secure Bonds
    27:08 - Fawn Response Explained
    32:00 - Health Costs Of People-Pleasing
    35:02 - Boundaries And Nervous System Safety
    38:24 - Breaking Cycles Through Parent Healing
    41:28 - The Trigger-Proof Experience Overview

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss
    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Connect with Dr. Nima: https://drnima.com/

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom part

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    49 min
  • Shadow Work & Inner Child Co-Regulation w/ Dr. Nima Rahmany Part 1 - Episode 119

    In this powerful conversation, Dr. Nima Rami joins Lawrence Joss to uncover how the parts of ourselves we try to hide are the very keys to healing. Together, they explore the transformative practice of shadow work, turning triggers into teachers and pain into purpose. They discuss how true self-regulation begins with co-regulating your younger self, and how embracing your “mess” can break lifelong cycles of trauma. This episode offers deep insights for anyone seeking to transform emotional triggers into greater self-awareness, compassion, and authentic connection.


    Key Takeaways

    • Shadow work is a spiritual practice.
    • Using triggers can lead to personal growth.
    • Self-reflection is key to understanding oneself.
    • Avoiding triggers hinders personal development.
    • Embracing inner challenges fosters growth.
    • The mirror metaphor highlights self-examination.
    • Spirituality involves looking inward.
    • Growth comes from understanding our reactions.
    • Triggers can be seen as opportunities.
    • Shadow work requires courage and honesty.

    Chapters

    0:00 Opening: The Healing Journey
    1:02 Welcome And Guest Introduction
    2:35 What Shadow Work Really Means
    7:35 Projections And The Mirror Of Relationships
    11:29 Co‑Regulation With Your Younger Self
    15:10 Triggers Explained In Plain Language
    20:14 Capacity Over A Triggerless Life
    24:24 Curious Not Furious: Integration Or Blame
    26:47 Parenting While Triggered
    32:20 Divorce Dynamics And Cycle Breaking
    37:15 Repairing Bonds Across Generations
    42:00 Preparing For Parenthood With Presence

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss
    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Connect with Dr. Nima: https://drnima.com/

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom part

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    45 min
  • Unconscious Alienation: Time is the Enemy in High-Conflict Custody with Lisa Johnson Part 2 - Episode 118

    In this conversation, parental alienation expert Lisa Johnson discusses the complexities of navigating custody battles and the impact of communication on children. She emphasizes the importance of building a support team, understanding the role of time in legal proceedings, and the necessity of setting firm boundaries. Lisa also shares strategies for strengthening parent-child bonds and developing critical thinking skills in children to help them navigate conflicting messages from parents. The discussion highlights the importance of community support and resources available for parents facing these challenges.

    Key Takeaways

    • Planting poisonous messages can harm children's perception of safety.
    • Complicity in parenting plans can be used against you in court.
    • Setting firm boundaries is essential for healthy parenting.
    • Developing critical thinking skills in children is vital.
    • Children need to feel they have control and agency.
    • Positive memories with children can counteract negative messaging.
    • Community support is invaluable for parents in high-conflict cases.
    • Legal systems can provide tools, but cannot fix relationships.

    Chapters

    00:00 Episode 118 Lisa Johnson Pt 2
    29:02 Understanding Parental Alienation
    31:49 The Impact of Communication on Children
    35:02 The Role of Time in Custody Battles
    37:43 Building a Support Team
    40:51 Navigating Complicity in Parenting Plans
    43:44 Establishing Strong Bonds with Children
    46:54 Developing Critical Thinking Skills in Kids
    49:44 Resources and Support for Parents
    52:57 Final Thoughts and Community Support

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss
    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Connect with Lisa Johnson: https://beentheregotout.com/⁩

    Strategies for Running Your High-Conflict Case Like a Business - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNL81Gr-Dbg

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom part

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    30 min
  • Unconscious Alienation: Time is the Enemy in High-Conflict Custody with Lisa Johnson Part 1 - Episode 117

    Lisa Johnson discusses her extensive experience with parental alienation and legal abuse, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll it takes on parents and children. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the legal system, the nuances of parental alienation versus justified estrangement, and the need for support and community among those affected. Lisa shares success stories that offer hope and strategies for navigating high conflict divorce situations, while also addressing the cultural shifts in perceptions of parental relationships.

    Key Takeaways

    • Parental alienation affects millions and is often misunderstood.
    • Understanding the legal system is crucial for effective representation.
    • Parental alienation is a form of psychological abuse.
    • There is hope for reconciliation in alienated parent-child relationships.
    • Distinguishing between alienation and justified estrangement is complex.
    • Cultural shifts have changed how adult children view their relationships with parents.
    • Body language and communication around children can impact their perceptions. 

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Parental Alienation and Legal Abuse
    03:01 Understanding High Conflict Divorce and Legal Strategies
    06:07 The Impact of Parental Alienation as Domestic Violence
    09:00 Navigating Identity Loss in Alienation Situations
    12:11 Hope and Recovery: Success Stories in Alienation
    15:07 Distinguishing Alienation from Justified Estrangement
    17:52 The Nuances of Estrangement in Adult Children

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss
    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Connect with Lisa Johnson: https://beentheregotout.com/⁩

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom part

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    30 min
  • Somatic Healing for Parental Alienation: Rewiring Stress Response with Vivian Meraki Part 2 - Episode 116

    In this conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of emotional differentiation and somatic therapy in parenting, particularly in the context of co-parenting and parental alienation. They discuss how understanding one's emotions and boundaries can lead to healthier relationships with children and ex-partners. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-trust, agency, and the need for repair in relationships, both with oneself and with others. The speakers also highlight practical resources and strategies for parents to navigate these challenges effectively.

    Key Takeaways

    • Emotional differentiation helps in recognizing what emotions belong to us.
    • Somatic therapy reconnects individuals with their bodies for healing.
    • Creating safety in parent-child relationships is crucial for emotional health.
    • Boundaries teach others how we want to be treated.
    • Repairing relationships starts with self-awareness and self-trust.
    • Self-sacrifice in parenting should be intentional, not a default.
    • Children absorb the emotional dynamics of their parents' relationships.
    • Communication and consent are key in navigating co-parenting challenges.
    • Repair can happen within ourselves, not just through verbal communication.
    • Resources like workshops and books can support parents in their journey.


    Chapters

    00:00 - Understanding Emotional Differentiation
    02:46 - The Importance of Somatic Therapy
    05:47 - Navigating Parent-Child Relationships
    08:58 - The Role of Boundaries in Co-Parenting
    11:58 - Repairing Relationships: Self and Others
    15:05 - The Power of Self-Trust and Agency
    17:49 - Creating Safety in Parenting
    21:04 - The Journey of Somatic Healing
    23:52 - Resources for Parents
    26:53 - Final Thoughts and Reflections

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss
    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Vivian Meraki's Website: https://www.vivianmeraki.com/⁩

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom part

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    38 min
  • Somatic Healing for Parental Alienation: Rewiring Stress Response with Vivian Meraki Part 1 - Episode 115

    In this conversation, Lawrence Joss interviews Vivian Marrake, a somatic trauma-informed coach, who shares her insights on somatic therapy and its transformative power in healing emotional pain, particularly in the context of parental alienation. Vivian discusses her personal journey through divorce and how somatic practices helped her reconnect with her body and emotions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one's feelings, building resilience, and the role of co-regulation in parenting. Vivian provides practical tools for parents to support their children in navigating their emotions and developing self-trust.

    Key Takeaways

    • When someone starts to see you and hear you, it shows us that we matter.
    • Somatic therapy can be a life-changing experience.
    • The body holds our experiences and reactions before our mind does.
    • Resilience is about how quickly we return to our center.
    • Co-regulation is a powerful tool for parents.
    • It's okay for children to feel their emotions.
    • Children need to learn that they are the experts on themselves.
    • The silver bullet for healing is often within us.
    • Acknowledging our struggles is the first step to healing.
    • Building resilience involves softening and reconnecting with our bodies.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Importance of Acknowledgment
    02:45 - Introduction to Somatic Coaching
    05:54 - Understanding Somatics
    08:58 - Personal Journey to Somatic Healing
    11:52 - The Power of Somatic Practices
    15:05 - Navigating Parental Alienation
    17:57 - Building Resilience Through Somatics
    20:54 - Co-Regulation and Parenting
    23:57 - Practical Tools for Parents
    27:08 - Empowering Children Through Somatic Awareness
    29:59 - Living the Somatic Experience

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss
    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Vivian Meraki's Website: https://www.vivianmeraki.com/⁩

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXSsa bottom part

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    35 min
  • The Forgiveness Superpower: Her Secret to Healing Generational Abuse & Parental Alienation - Episode 114

    In this enlightening conversation, Gail Kirshenbaum shares her profound journey of forgiveness, focusing on her relationship with her mother and the impact of generational trauma. She emphasizes that forgiveness is a personal journey meant for self-healing rather than condoning past behaviors. Through her experiences, Gail illustrates the importance of understanding the backgrounds of those who have hurt us, reframing our expectations, and the transformative power of kindness. She also outlines her seven steps to finding forgiveness, highlighting the significance of creating distance, building a support system, and engaging in creative expression as essential tools for healing.

    Key Takeaways

    • Forgiveness is for ourselves, not for others.
    • Understanding the past of those who hurt us is crucial.
    • Creating distance can help in the healing process.
    • Forgiveness can transform relationships, even if one party isn't ready.
    • Kindness can change someone's day and perspective.
    • Generational trauma affects how we relate to others.
    • Self-forgiveness is essential for healthy relationships.
    • Reframing expectations can lead to emotional freedom.
    • Journaling and creative expression are powerful healing tools.
    • Forgiveness is a journey that takes time and effort.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Essence of Forgiveness
    04:15 - Gail's Journey of Healing
    10:23 - Reframing Relationships
    16:34 - Understanding the Power of Forgiveness
    21:43 - The Impact of Generational Trauma
    27:32 - Steps to Finding Forgiveness
    33:24 - The Role of Kindness in Healing

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss
    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Gayle Kirschenbaum’s Website: https://www.gaylekirschenbaum.com

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXS

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    45 min
  • How to "Contain" Your Emotions & Practice Compassionate Communication in Parental Alienation - Episode 113

    In this episode, Lawrence Joss delves into the complexities of parental alienation, estrangement, and the importance of compassionate communication. He emphasizes the need for a long-term perspective in relationships, the value of community support, and the significance of trusting a child's perspective. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the development of emotional intelligence as a crucial skill for navigating these challenges, encouraging listeners to engage in self-reflection and community involvement.

    Key Takeaways

    • Compassionate communication.
    • The long view.
    • Cultivating community.
    • Acknowledging the child's suffering.
    • Developing emotional intelligence.
    • Parental alienation and estrangement create complex emotional landscapes.
    • Acknowledging others' perspectives does not mean agreeing with them.
    • Learning from community experiences shapes personal growth.
    • Being a good parent is possible even without direct contact.
    • Expressing love and vulnerability is part of personal growth.

    Chapters

    00:00 - Understanding Parental Alienation and Estrangement
    02:50 - The Importance of Compassionate Communication
    05:43 - The Long View in Relationships
    09:01 - Cultivating Community for Support
    11:53 - Trusting the Child's Perspective
    14:45 - Developing Emotional Intelligence

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss

    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXS

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    26 min
  • From Panic to Healing – Finding Hope Through 12-Step Recovery & Community - Episode 112

    In this episode of the Family Disappeared podcast, Lawrence Joss discusses the transformative journey from suffering to living, particularly in the context of parental alienation. He emphasizes the importance of community support, creative expression, and emotional intelligence in navigating the complexities of family dynamics. Joss shares personal experiences and insights on how to support children emotionally while accepting the powerlessness that comes with parenting. The conversation highlights the significance of acknowledging suffering and the role of creativity in recovery and personal growth.

    Key Takeaways

    • Survival to living
    • Creative expression
    • How do we support the kids emotionally?
    • Is it possible to accept powerlessness?
    • How do I acknowledge my child's suffering and reality?
    • Through change, you will transform your suffering.
    • Community is essential for survival in difficult times.
    • Emotional intelligence is key in family dynamics.
    • Volunteering can shift your perspective and enrich your life.
    • It's important to share experiences and support one another.

    Chapters

    00:00 - Transforming Suffering Through Change
    03:04 - Community and Support in Parental Alienation
    05:52 - From Survival to Living: A Personal Journey
    08:44 - Creative Expression as a Healing Tool
    12:05 - Supporting Children Emotionally
    14:57 - Accepting Powerlessness and Acknowledging Suffering

    If you wish to connect with Lawrence Joss or any of the PA-A community members who have appeared as guests on the podcast:

    Email - [email protected]
    Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lawrencejoss

    (All links mentioned in the podcast are available in Linktree)

    Please donate to support PAA programs:
    https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=SDLTX8TBSZNXS

    This podcast is made possible by the Family Disappeared Team:
    Anna Johnson- Editor/Contributor/Activist/Co-host
    Glaze Gonzales- Podcast Manager

    Connect with Lawrence Joss:
    Website: https://parentalalienationanonymous.com/
    Email-         [email protected]

    25 min

About Family Disappeared

From the publisher's feed

Have you lost contact with your child? What about your parent, or grandparent, sibling, or any other family member? You might be experiencing estrangement, alienation, or erasure. All of these…

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