Toxic relationships are often misunderstood. Especially when it comes to men being on the receiving end of emotional abuse. On the latest episode of the Men’s Therapy Podcast, host Marc Azoulay speaks with returning guest Bre Wolta. She is a relationship clarity coach. She speaks about how toxic love manifests. She highlights why men struggle to recognize emotional abuse. She shares insights on how to break free from unhealthy relationship patterns.

As Bre explains, toxic relationships often stem from deep-rooted emotional wounds. “Narcissists are seeking control and validation from relationships rather than love and connection,” she says. This manipulation can take many forms. These include gaslighting, love bombing, and emotional withdrawal. All create cycles of codependency.

But toxic relationships aren’t always easy to identify—especially for men. “We don’t talk enough about men being in toxic relationships as the victims,” Marc points out. “The narrative often assumes that men are the abusers, but the reality is far more complex.”