In this episode, we sit down with Brandy, a counselor and author whose life story is nothing short of inspiring. Brandy's journey has been marred by the long-lasting scars of an abusive, narcissistic father that left her with seemingly insurmountable challenges. Her resilience, however, is a testament to the power of the human spirit.

Brandy's life took a dramatic turn when she reached her breaking point, resulting in her imprisonment. But what could have been the end of her story turned out to be a turning point. During her time behind bars, Brandy discovered an unexpected opportunity to heal and grow through various programs and therapy.

Join us as Brandy shares the harrowing details of her life before and after prison, shedding light on the horrors of an abusive upbringing and the transformative power of self-discovery. Her remarkable journey of personal growth and healing is a testament to the indomitable strength of the human spirit.

After her release, Brandy dedicated years to intensive therapy, self-reflection, and personal development. Today, she has chosen to use her experiences and newfound wisdom to help others find their path to healing and self-improvement. Through her counseling work and her compelling book, she offers guidance, hope, and a lifeline to those who have endured similar struggles.

• Meet Brandy
• Her narcissistic father
• Her time in prison
• Toxic relationships
• Therapy and healing
• Advice from her perspective
• 
  

Tune in to "Unbreaking Bad – Bred from Toxicity. Brandy's story will touch your heart, inspire you to overcome adversity and remind you that it's never too late to find your way toward a better future. Don't miss this powerful conversation with Brandy as she shares her journey from prison to redemption, and her mission to help others heal and thrive.

Brandy's book and podcast in this episode:

Last Nights Mascara

Tabletop of Doom

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of domestic violence, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, 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.

In the episode, we dive into the agonizing journey of Aleah, a military veteran who battled an invisible enemy for six long years. Her enemy wasn't on the battlefield; it was hiding within her own body, and its name was alpha-gal.

Join us as we explore the distressing story of Aleah's relentless struggle with the condition that few had even heard of. Despite her consistent pleas and undeniable symptoms, doctors consistently dismissed her concerns, attributing her health issues to stress, anxiety, or other unrelated factors. Aleah's ordeal serves as a compelling reminder of the all-too-common experiences of female patients who are gaslighted and not taken seriously by the very professionals they turn to for help.

Aleah's narrative sheds light on the life-altering consequences of being misdiagnosed and how it can erode one's faith in the medical system. Aleah's unyielding determination, her journey to self-advocacy, and her ultimate vindication when she finally received her alpha-gal diagnosis are nothing short of inspiring.

Discussions in this episode:

• Meet Aleah
• The symptoms
• Pleas falling on deaf ears
• Self Advocating
• Never give up
• Living with Alpha-gal

Tune in to "Doctor Feelbad" and discover a story of resilience, perseverance, and the strength to overcome the odds, reminding us all that no one should ever be silenced regarding their own health.

Content Warning: This episode discusses 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.

In this episode, we sit down with Bethany, a survivor with a powerful story of resilience, hope, and recovery. Join us as she bravely recounts her encounter with a manipulative sexual predator who turned a date into a nightmarish ordeal.

Bethany opens up about the chilling experience of being taunted and sexually harassed by someone she initially considered a potential romantic interest, and how she summoned the courage to escape from his home. Her escape was only the beginning of her journey to healing, as she shares how she sought support from a trusted friend and well-trained law enforcement professionals.

While Bethany's ordeal came to an end that fateful night, the trauma she endured had a lasting impact on her life. She reveals how the trust issues stemming from that dark encounter haunted her for years. Fortunately, her music guided her, and her current husband’s support and understanding led her to therapy and her healing journey.

Discussions in this episode:

• Meet Bethany
• Growing up Pentecostal
• Horrible boyfriends
• The bad guy
• Validation and healing
• Her music

Tune in to "The Definition of a Bad Guy” to hear Bethany's inspiring story of survival, resilience, and the path to rebuilding trust after enduring such a traumatic experience. Her tale is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of seeking help when it's needed the most.

Listen to Bethany’s band, Plastic Angels

Bethany recommends Help;Hear;Heal, a nonprofit she helps advise that sponsors free mental health therapy for survivors through TriveWorks.

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of toxic abuse, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, 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.

In this episode, we delve into the heartbreaking story of Jessica, a dedicated community builder who found herself entangled in a tumultuous marriage with a narcissistic Sheila. At first glance, her ex-wife appeared to have it all – stunning looks, intellect, and undeniable charm. However, behind this facade lay a dark and manipulative reality.

Jessica opens up about the whirlwind romance that led her to believe she had found her soulmate, only to discover later that her partner had a severe narcissistic personality disorder. Their life took a devastating turn during the COVID-19 lockdown, a time when stress and uncertainty seemed to amplify the cracks in their relationship.

Jessica turned to therapy and her faith to navigate the challenges she faced, but she also sought solace in alcohol as a coping mechanism. Her journey is a stark reminder of how even those in positions of spiritual guidance can fall victim to toxic relationships and the powerful grasp of narcissism.

In this raw and unfiltered conversation, we explore the signs and red flags that Jessica ignored, the emotional rollercoaster she endured, and the steps she took to regain control of her life. Her story serves as a testament to resilience, the importance of seeking help, and the power of faith in overcoming even the darkest of times.

Discussions in this episode:

• Meet Jessica
• A whirlwind romance
• Behind the facade
• Getting out alive
• Healing a finding herself again
• A message to the LGBTQ+ community

Tune in to "Sheila Unmasked" as Jessica shares her story of survival and the path to healing, reminding us all that we can emerge from the shadow of narcissism stronger and wiser than before.

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of toxic abuse, alcoholism, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, 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.

In this episode, we sit down with Maya, a resilient woman in her 40s hailing from the heart of Georgia. Maya's story is a poignant exploration of her tumultuous relationship with her narcissistic mother, her pursuit of healing through therapy, and her remarkable journey toward building a harmonious life with her wife while becoming closer to her father later in life.

But this story isn't just about hardship; it's about resilience and growth. Maya's decision to seek therapy in her 40s marks a turning point in her life. With the guidance of a compassionate therapist and a very supportive wife, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning how to set healthy boundaries and prioritize her own well-being.

Join us as we unravel the layers of Maya's life, beginning with her formative years and the challenges she faced growing up with a mother whose narcissism casts a long shadow over her self-esteem. We'll hear Maya's personal anecdotes and reflections, shedding light on the emotional toll that such a relationship can take on an individual's mental health.

Maya's story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of surrounding oneself with a loving support system. Tune in to this insightful episode as we explore the journey of a woman who transformed adversity into strength, learning to live life on her own terms and fostering reconnections that brought healing and happiness.

Discussions in this episode:

Meet Maya

Seeking therapy in her 40s

Learning to set boundaries

Building a peaceful life with her wife

A better relationship with her father

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of parental toxic abuse, narcissistic abuse, 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.

In this episode, we dive into a unique and challenging dating story as Lisa opens up about her experience with Trent, the man who presents two vastly different sides: an ideal partner in person and a relentless bully behind the screen. Join us as we explore the complexities of dating, emotional manipulation, and the importance of recognizing red flags.

Discussions in this episode:

• Behk & LAH’s message to listeners :)
• Meet Lisa
• Lisa's first impressions
• Trent's Jekyll and Hyde act
• The emotional toll
• Decision to confront Trent
• The enigma of Trent
• The importance of setting boundaries
• Healing journey
• Message to others

Lisa's dating story serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities of relationships and the importance of recognizing and addressing emotional abuse, even when it hides behind a charming facade. Remember, your well-being and self-worth should always come first.

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

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

If you feel like you may be a victim of domestic violence of any type or in any way please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 for confidential and free 24/7/365 support.

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 @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

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

In this episode, we sit down with Nicole and A, two passionate Facebook group admins who set out to create a haven for like-minded crunchy women seeking support, empowerment, and camaraderie in a Southern town. Their intentions were pure, their vision radiant – to cultivate a positive and loving online and in-person community where women could thrive together and find a healthy lifestyle for their families in the deep-fried south.

But as we all know, even the most idyllic landscapes can fall prey to a single rotten apple. In this case, that rotten apple was one toxic and deceitful individual who disrupted the harmony that Nicole and A had worked so hard to foster. Join us as we explore the journey of these two admins, the highs, the lows, and the heartbreaking downfall of a community that was torn apart by the actions of one toxic person.

They’ll share the warning signs that went unnoticed, the challenges faced by Nicole and A, and the devastating consequences of toxicity within a supportive group. This episode serves as a cautionary tale for online community leaders and members alike, reminding us of the fragility of even the most well-intentioned spaces.

Tune in to "One Rotten Apple" as we reflect on how a vision of empowerment and love can take an unexpected turn, leaving us to ponder the age-old question: Can the actions of one truly spoil the goodness of many? Oh my, let’s get into it.

Discussions in this episode:

• How it began
• The warning signs
• The devastation of toxicity
• Lingering anxiety
• Lessons learned

Content Warning: This episode discusses various forms of narcissistic behavior, loss of life, 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.

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.

In this episode, we unravel the harrowing journey of Lydia who endured relentless verbal abuse at the hands of her brutal Pentecostal mother while her pleas for mental help regarding physical and sexual abuse fell on deaf ears. Lydia's story sheds light on the often unspoken pain experienced within some religious communities. This episode may contain triggering content, so please listen with discretion.

Discussions in this episode:

• Who is Lydia?
• Unveiling the painful past
• Darkness within the home
• Physical and emotional pain
• Death becomes her
• Letting go

If you or someone you know is dealing with abuse, please don't hesitate to seek help. Together, we can work towards a world where compassion and empathy triumph. Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes, where we continue to explore stories of resilience and strength. Until next time, remember, your voice matters, and you are never alone.

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

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

If you feel like you may be a victim of domestic violence of any type or in any way please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 for confidential and free 24/7/365 support

Suggested reading and podcast from this episode:*

Healing Your Inner Child: Re-Parenting Yourself for a More Secure & Loving Life by Natasha Levinger

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

The Cure for Chronic Pain with Nicole Sachs, LCSW

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.

In this episode, we delve deep into Amanda's personal journey, where she courageously shares her experiences with polyamorous relationships and the challenges she faced with her three different baby daddies. Amanda's story is a powerful reminder of the complexities of love, relationships, and the resilience of the human spirit. She is brave enough to share her story and admit to mistakes and patterns that hurt people. What we think is amazing about this guest's story is her willingness to own her shit, heal, grow, learn, and do better.

Discussions in this episode:

• Who is Amanda?
• Baby Daddy #1
• Baby Daddy #2
• Polyamorous relationships
• Baby Daddy #3
• The breaking point and self-discovery
• Lessons and reflections
• Healing and moving forward

Amanda's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of self-discovery and healing. It serves as an inspiration for anyone navigating complex relationships and seeking a path toward personal growth and happiness.

We hope Amanda's story provided valuable insights into the complexities of love and relationships. If you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it with others who may benefit. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in future episodes.

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

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

If you feel like you may be a victim of domestic violence of any type or in any way please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 for confidential and free 24/7/365 support

Suggested reading and support from this episode:*

Why does he do that? by Lundy Bancroft

Codependent's Anonymous Twelve Step Program (CoDA)

Peeling the Onion by CoDA

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.

In this episode, Sheena is back sharing the story of her ex, Matt. Their dysfunctional on-again, off-again relationship almost ended up with him laying hands on her. How did she navigate his toxic assholery and got out once and for all before it turned physical? Oh my, let’s get into it.

Content Warning: This episode discusses topics that may upset 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? Please donate or subscribe to our Patreon for exclusive content.

Hosts: Behk & LAH

Follow us on Instagram or Facebook @ngcompod

Production & Design: LAHarden

Music: No Reason Why by Anchor

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