In this episode, we delve into the harrowing story of Jodi, whose life took a dark turn when she entered a relationship with a friend. Thinking she knew him well after five years of acquaintance, she never imagined the horror that awaited her.

Initially charming, he quickly turned into her worst nightmare. An audacious narcissist, he manipulated her with ease, saying all the right things to gain her trust. After letting him move into her home upon his release from jail, things spiraled out of control. He got her hooked on methamphetamine, and soon, police became frequent visitors to her once peaceful home.

Despite protective orders, he refused to leave, leaving Jodi trapped in a living nightmare. In just 10 months, he managed to drain her of life, both mentally and financially. Even her sons sensed something was deeply wrong, though shielded from the worst of his abuse.

The process of healing and rebuilding her life is slow and painful. Therapy and support become her lifeline as she works to regain her strength and sense of self. It is a journey filled with setbacks and challenges, but gradually, Jodi starts to reclaim her life.

Join us as we explore Jodi's journey from trust to betrayal, shedding light on the insidious nature of methamphetamine addiction and the devastating impact it can have on lives, especially when coupled with the manipulation of an audacious narcissist.

We believe in the importance of sharing stories and talking about trauma. All stories are shared anonymously for privacy and respect, and no names or descriptive details are included.

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of toxic abuse, infidelity, and any topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

We are not doctors or therapists; you should not take our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Behk and LAH sit down with their friend, Charlie, who found herself in a web of toxic friendships and in a marriage with a woman growing in the opposite direction. Married in their twenties, our protagonist and her spouse began to drift apart as the pressures of maintaining a certain lifestyle mounted. Surrounded by a friend group that could be cast in a real-life "Mean Girls" saga, she struggled to meet her partner’s ever-growing demands, all while never receiving the basic love and affection she so desperately needed.

Join Behk and LAH as they explore the emotional turmoil of trying to please everyone in a world where mean girls reign supreme. They’ll discuss the impact of toxic friendships on romantic relationships and the heartbreaking journey of seeking validation and love from someone who can’t or won’t provide it. This episode sheds light on the difficult balance between external pressures and internal desires, and the painful reality of love lost in a mean girl haze.

Tune in for a raw and relatable discussion that underscores the importance of self-worth and the courage to break free from toxic ties to heal and grow positively.

We believe in the importance of sharing stories and talking about trauma. All stories are shared anonymously for privacy and respect, and no names or descriptive details are included.

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of toxic abuse, infidelity, and any topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

We are not doctors or therapists; you should not take our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Professor Dale Margolin Cecka, Director of the Family Violence Litigation Clinic at Albany Law School, joins us to unpack the many ways the legal system often fails survivors—especially women, children, and teens. A skilled advocate and scholar, she brings clarity to the complexities of domestic violence law and shares insights on how reproductive justice, family court, and legal protection intersect.

• How domestic violence survivors navigate an often broken family court system
• The essential difference between reactive violence and calculated patterns of control in abusive relationships
• Why children and teens remain vulnerable due to gaps in legal protections
• The crucial relationship between reproductive justice and domestic violence

• USA Today – “Diddy trial and Macron shove reveal our blind spots about domestic violence” (June 2, 2025) — In this striking op-ed, Professor Cecka explores how high-profile cases expose dangerous societal blind spots regarding abuse. Albany Law School+1
• Governing – “The Fatal Consequences of Giving Violent Men Access to Their Children” (October 25, 2024) — A sharp look at how family courts’ custody decisions can put children’s lives at risk. Governing Albany Law School
• Salon – “How ‘It Ends With Us’ Gets Domestic Violence Wrong” (August 21, 2024) — A critique of how popular culture simplifies and misrepresents the realities of intimate partner violence. Salon.com
• Albany Law School
• People’s World – “VAWA Is 30, But Are We Still Failing Survivors?” (October 30, 2024) — A reflective commentary marking three decades since the Violence Against Women Act. peoplesworld.org

Content Warning: This episode discusses various topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. 

We are not doctors or therapists; please do not consider our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s Behk’s birthday weekend, and you know things are about to get derailed. In this episode, Behk & LAH set out to talk about a couple things—but end up everywhere: from the podcasts they're currently obsessed with, to the weird dreams creeping them out, Elvis being into the occult, to mocktails featuring Willie’s Remedy+. They also tease an exciting upcoming guest, and—as always—Behk drops some grounded, heartfelt advice at the end that you won’t want to miss. Chaos, clarity, and cackles all wrapped into one episode.

Content Warning: This episode discusses various topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. 

We are not doctors or therapists; please do not consider our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Narcissists, Gaslighters and Cheaters, Oh My!, hosts Behk and LAH are joined by Bryan Power, who opens up about his journey from a tumultuous childhood to nearly losing his marriage—and what ultimately helped him turn it around.

Bryan candidly shares how unresolved trauma and emotional baggage impacted his relationship, leading to conflict, a restraining order, and the brink of separation. His turning point came when he discovered Integrated Attachment Theory. This framework helped him understand not only his own emotional needs but also how to become a better communicator and more attuned partner.

Together, we explore:

• The long-lasting effects of unstable early environments
• How attachment styles show up in adult relationships
• Recognizing emotional patterns and healing from them
• Tools for better communication and connection
• Using self-awareness to transform toxic dynamics

Whether you're navigating a difficult relationship or simply want to understand yourself and your partner better, this episode offers insight, vulnerability, and hope for change.

Visit Bryan Power's website to take the quiz and learn more about Integrated Attachment Theory.

We believe in the importance of sharing stories and talking about trauma. All stories are shared anonymously for privacy and respect, and no names or descriptive details are included.

Content Warning: This episode discusses various topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. 

We are not doctors or therapists; please do not consider our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Narcissists, Gaslighters and Cheaters, Oh My!, hosts Behk and LAH talk with Amie Schulz, a therapist who vulnerably shares her real-life experience of being caught in an emotional affair with a coworker who exhibited covert narcissistic behaviors.

What unfolded wasn’t just betrayal—it was a campaign of manipulation and professional sabotage. When Amie asked for honesty, the dynamic shifted, and a smear campaign threatened her career and sense of self.

Amie walks us through the emotional toll of covert abuse, how easily boundaries can blur, and what healing looks like on the other side. She also opens up about the work she’s doing to repair her marriage and reconnect with herself after feeling completely lost.

• The start of the emotional affair and the slow buildup of manipulation
• The confrontation — and the shocking smear campaign that followed
• Breaking down covert narcissistic behavior in real time
• How narcissists weaponize perception to damage careers and reputations
• Amie shares how she lost her sense of self in the process
• Healing in motion: therapy, marriage work, and self-reconnection
• Amie’s advice for recognizing manipulation and protecting your energy

Follow Amie Schulz on Instagram: @amieschulztherapy

We believe in the importance of sharing stories and talking about trauma. All stories are shared anonymously for privacy and respect, and no names or descriptive details are included.

As mentioned at the beginning of this episode, Grace from Episode 13, “The Breaking Point,” has started a GoFundMe at the request of a listener. If you’re able, please consider donating or sharing the link. Thank you so much for your support!

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of toxic abuse, narcissistic abuse, cheating, and any topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. 

We are not doctors or therapists; please do not consider our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Narcissists, Gaslighters and Cheaters, Oh My!, hosts Behk and LAH sit down with Kris, a woman who shares her powerful story of surviving emotional manipulation after a devastating end to her 17-year marriage. What started as a whirlwind romance with a man she met on social media quickly turned into a chaotic rollercoaster of love bombing, betrayal, and gaslighting.

Over the course of five years, Kris uncovered message after message revealing his double life—but every time she confronted him, he twisted the truth, pulled her back in, and promised change. From engagement rings to welcoming his adult daughter into her home, Kris tried to believe in the dream—until the illusion finally shattered. Kris opens up about:    

• The euphoric highs and crushing lows of their relationship    
• How manipulation and false hope kept her stuck    
• The moment she realized she had lost herself    
• Her journey through heartbreak, therapy, and healing

If you’ve ever been caught in the cycle of manipulation or struggled to find your way back to yourself after toxic love, this episode will hit home.

We believe in the importance of sharing stories and talking about trauma. All stories are shared anonymously for privacy and respect, and no names or descriptive details are included.

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Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of toxic abuse, narcissistic abuse, cheating, and any topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. 

We are not doctors or therapists; please do not consider our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode (2 of 2), co-host LAH picks up her story after year one of her tumultuous relationship. Sitting down once again with her co-host, Behk, LAH dives deep into the emotional roller coaster, financial problems, and sexual trauma that marked her married years. She shares the highs and lows, the moments of hope and despair, and the ongoing struggle to break free from a toxic cycle. Join LAH and Behk as they navigate the complexities of surviving and healing from such profound challenges.

Topics Discussed:

• LGBTQ+ marriage
• Toxic family dynamics
• Couples finances
• Sexual coercion
• LAH's healing journey

Join LAH and Behk as they explore the complexities of codependency and the impact of childhood trauma. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with similar issues or seeking to understand the dynamics of toxic relationships better.

We believe in the importance of sharing stories and talking about trauma. All stories are shared anonymously for privacy and respect, and no names or descriptive details are included.

JOIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of toxic abuse, alcoholism, drug addiction, child neglect, child molestation, and any topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. 

We are not doctors or therapists; please do not consider our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️ Narcissists, Gaslighters, and Cheaters, Oh My! is taking a short summer break! ☀️

We’re pressing pause for just a couple of weeks to soak up some sunshine and recharge. Don’t worry—we’ll be back in mid-July with brand-new episodes and some incredible guests you won’t want to miss.

Thank you for listening, sharing, and supporting the stories from our brave guests. See you soon and enjoy the replay of LAH's story if you are new to the pod.

With love,

Behk & LAH 💛

In this episode (1 of 2), co-host LAH sits down with her co-host, Behk, to share a deeply personal story. LAH opens up about her childhood trauma and how it shaped her adult relationships. She briefly delves into her childhood, recounting experiences that led her into an 8-year codependent and toxic relationship with an addict.

Topics Discussed:

• Disclaimer of all disclaimers
• Who is LAH?
• LAH’s childhood
• LAH’s first long-term relationship
• Cocaine blues

Join LAH and Behk as they explore the complexities of codependency and the impact of childhood trauma. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with similar issues or seeking to understand the dynamics of toxic relationships better.

We believe in the importance of sharing stories and talking about trauma. All stories are shared anonymously for privacy and respect, and no names or descriptive details are included.

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of toxic abuse, alcoholism, drug addiction, child neglect, child molestation, and any topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. 

We are not doctors or therapists; please do not consider our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Stephanie opens up about her upbringing in Florida, shaped by the traumatic experiences of her parents' own challenging childhoods. The echoes of this difficult past reverberated through Stephanie and her sister's lives, causing tension and discord between them.

With courage and vulnerability, Stephanie shares her personal journey and aspirations. Despite the shadows cast by her family's history, she expresses a deep desire to break the cycle of trauma. Stephanie is determined to provide her son with a different narrative — one filled with love, care, and protection.

Discussions in this episode:

• Meet Stephanie
• Her parent’s traumatic childhood
• Her and her sister’s turbulent relationship
• Her parenting style versus her parent’s
• A healing and loving future for her son

Join us as Stephanie explores her own resilience and powerful commitment to creating a more nurturing environment for the next generation. This episode is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of breaking generational patterns.

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of toxic abuse, narcissistic abuse, child abuse, rape, suicide, animal abuse, gun violence, and any topics that may disturb some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

We are not doctors or therapists; you should not take our opinions as medical advice.

Have a story you would like to share? Please fill out our form.

Would you like to help support the show more? Donate or subscribe to our Patreon for exclusive content.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram + Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.