
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or


Why Do Breakups Hurt So Much? | Brain Science, Trauma & Healing After Heartbreak
In this episode of Pulling Threads, therapist and coach Leslie unpacks why breakups feel so devastating—especially when you’re carrying unresolved trauma. From the brain science behind emotional pain to the impact of attachment styles, Leslie explores what really happens in our nervous system when a relationship ends—and why it can feel like your whole world is unraveling.
You’ll learn:
• The neuroscience of heartbreak and why it mimics physical pain
• How childhood trauma and attachment wounds shape your breakup response
• The stages of breakup grief (hint: they’re not linear!)
• Common emotional “minefields” to watch for post-breakup
• Real-life coping tools, grounding exercises, and emotional regulation strategies
• How to turn heartbreak into a powerful opportunity for healing, clarity, and self-discovery
Whether you’re reeling from a recent breakup or want to better understand the emotional aftermath of relationship endings, this episode is packed with insights, strategies, and encouragement to help you feel less alone—and more empowered.
🫖 Grab your tea, get comfy, and let’s untangle this together.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro: Why Breakups Hurt So Much
01:09 – Leslie’s Personal Breakup Story
04:43 – Brain Science of Heartbreak
07:25 – Attachment Styles & Breakup Impact
10:27 – Stages of Breakup Grief
17:02 – Navigating Post-Breakup Minefields
22:36 – Grounding Tools for Emotional Recovery
24:55 – Final Thoughts & Words of Support
Why Even “Small Lies” Hurt So Much | The Psychology of Deception in Relationships
In this powerful episode of Pulling Threads, therapist and coach Leslie unpacks the hidden damage caused by deception in relationships — from bold-faced lies to subtle omissions and half-truths.
Why does it hurt so badly when we find out someone misled us? How does betrayal affect our mental health, self-worth, and ability to trust again?
Leslie explores:
• Why even small deceptions rupture trust
• How past trauma amplifies the pain of betrayal
• The psychological impact of being lied to or misled
• What it does to your self-esteem and attachment
• Why people deceive — and what’s really going on beneath the surface
• Steps individuals and couples can take to heal after deception
Whether you’re trying to move on from a relationship filled with dishonesty or working to rebuild after a breach of trust, this episode offers compassionate insight and actionable strategies for healing.
🔗 Subscribe to Pulling Threads for more honest conversations on trauma, healing, and modern relationships.
⸻
⏱ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pulling Threads
00:30 Understanding Deception
01:32 Psychological Impact of Deception
02:10 Examples of Deception in Relationships
03:52 Betrayal Trauma and Its Effects
11:28 Healing from Deception
19:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
⸻
💬 What’s your experience with deception in relationships? Share your thoughts in the comments — we’d love to hear your story.
📲 Follow Leslie & The LooM Life
Instagram: @TheLooMLife
Website: www.theloomlife.com
Unlock the secrets to mutual growth in relationships! Discover how witnessing change, consistent behavior, and integrity can foster deeper connections. Learn to believe in each other's transformations and gently correct past narratives. #RelationshipGrowth #PersonalDevelopment
Embrace personal growth! We explore shedding old narratives and moving forward, even when others cling to your past. Discover how to define yourself and break free from limiting perceptions. It's time to leave the past behind and step into your future! #PersonalGrowth #SelfImprovement #MovingForward #LettingGo #NewBeginnings #SelfDiscovery #Mindset #Transformation #PositiveVibes #InnerPeace
Explore personal growth and change as we discuss evolving and healing. Learn how others' perceptions may not always reflect who you've become. Embrace your journey and discover self-acceptance in our introspective discussion. #PersonalGrowth #PersonalGrowth #SelfImprovement #Mindfulness #HealingJourney #InnerWork #SelfAcceptance #Motivation #Inspiration #PersonalDevelopment #LifeChanges
From the publisher's feed
Pulling Threads is a podcast for women navigating life, career, past and current trauma, breakups and divorce, motherhood, reinvention, and the brave work of becoming who they’re meant to be. Hosted by therapist, coach, and founder of The LooM Life, Leslie Mathews, JD, MSW, this show blends trauma-informed guidance, nervous system education, and meaningful conversations about the patterns that shape our relationships, identity, and purpose.
Each episode explores the complicated places where life asks us to grow — healing from emotional abuse, rebuilding after divorce, midlife identity shifts, attachment wounds, dating again, motherhood, and rediscovering your voice. Many guests share their own stories of reinvention, entrepreneurship, career pivots, and stepping into authenticity, offering inspiration and practical wisdom for women building new chapters.
Through expert interviews, personal storytelling, and mindfulness-based tools, Pulling Threads supports women who are healing, expanding, and creating aligned lives and businesses. It’s a space for those navigating toxic dynamics, strengthening emotional regulation, or following the pull toward something more authentic and more fulfilling.
If you’re ready to untangle old patterns, trust your intuition, and weave a life — and identity — that feels grounded, empowered, and true, this podcast is where your next chapter begins.