Have you ever worked for a fear-based leader, a toxic bully boss, or someone in authority who used intimidation and harassment instead of emotional maturity? In today’s eye-opening conversation, Kate Lowry, CEO Coach and Author of "Unbreakable: How to Survive Under Fear Based Leaders"  breaks down why so many leaders behave more like emotionally reactive children than competent adults — and how their lack of emotional intelligence can create abusive, chaotic workplaces.

Kate explains the shocking truth: many leaders are not actually adults emotionally.
They operate from fear, insecurity, and power struggles — the same way a child does when they feel out of control. Think: “a five-year-old with car keys.”

This episode teaches you how to understand and navigate the behavior of fear-based, toxic leaders by becoming the grounded emotional adult in the room. You’ll learn how to recognize their emotional limitations, help them name their feelings, interrupt their intimidation patterns, and protect yourself from their bullying tactics.

If you’ve ever been belittled, humiliated, micromanaged, or made to feel “less than” by a boss who used fear instead of leadership — this conversation will validate your experience and give you tools to reclaim your power.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why fear-based leaders rely on control, intimidation, and emotional manipulation
• How toxic bosses use bullying behavior when they lack emotional intelligence
• Why emotionally immature leaders behave like children in adult bodies
• How to identify a leader’s emotional limitations before they hurt you
• How to stay grounded and emotionally regulated around abusive authority figures
• Why being “the adult” protects your confidence and career
• How to guide leaders toward better behavior without being their doormat
• Why supported leaders rely on the emotionally mature people around them

If you’ve ever whispered to yourself:
“I want to be the adult here… but why is my boss acting like a child?”
— this episode will feel like someone finally turned on the lights.

Check out Kate's book here!   https://a.co/d/6V16oL2

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
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🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

After a 25-year marriage ended suddenly, emotional-wellbeing expert and artist Elizabeth Jane turned heartbreak into a mission: to help others climb out of the quicksand of grief, reclaim self-worth, and rebuild a full life. In this episode Elizabeth shares practical, bite-sized tools that helped her move from shock → survival → reinvention — plus mindset shifts every woman leaving a long relationship needs to hear.

In this episode we cover:
 • Quick presence tools to stop the “should’ve / could’ve / would’ve” spiral.

 • The ABCs of healing: Acknowledge → Boundaries → Conversation.

 • How finding small daily practices (10 things that lift you) pulls you out of   grief.

 • Reframing blame: “People did stuff to us — the perpetrator is responsible.”

 • Forgiveness vs. trust — why forgiveness can free you even when trust must be rebuilt.

 • Why rediscovering yourself is the real “gift” divorce can give.

Grab Elizabeth’s book and art: https://a.co/d/4tG7WCy
Follow Elizabeth: https://elizabethjane.com.au/ 

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
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🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this powerful episode, Lizzie and Deana speak with Tracy DeTomasi, CEO of Callisto, a groundbreaking nonprofit using secure technology to connect survivors of serial predators—without forcing them to go public.
Tracy shares how the Callisto Vault platform empowers survivors to safely report, match with others harmed by the same perpetrator, and make informed choices about next steps. The conversation dives deep into the psychology of grooming, the myths around “risk reduction,” and how shifting the focus from “don’t get assaulted” to “don’t assault” changes everything.

In this episode:
 • How trauma-informed technology is changing survivor advocacy
 • What “Callisto Vault” does and how it protects privacy
 • The difference between minimizing risk vs. blaming victims
 • How grooming happens at any age—and how to recognize it
 • Why we need to hold perpetrators accountable, not survivors

💡 Learn more about Callisto: https://www.projectcallisto.org 
💬 Share this episode to help raise awareness — someone you know may need this resource.

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this raw & honest episode, Lizzie opens up about her courageous journey of leaving a toxic relationship and rebuilding her life from the ground up. She shares how healing isn't a single dramatic moment, it's a process that unfolds in stages, with every step leading toward self-discovery and empowerment. 

From surviving emotional turmoil to stepping into a season of reinvention, Lizzie reflects on the power of community support, the importance of self care, and how she's transforming her pain into purpose.   As she transitions from her teaching career to a life filled with travel and helping others heal, Lizzies story serves as an inspiring reminder that it's never too late to start over.  

Tune in if you’re ready to:

• Break free from toxic cycles and reclaim your identity
  
  Learn how to heal at your own pace
  
  Find hope in reinvention and personal growth
  
  Be inspired by someone who turned trauma into transformation
  
  
  

✨ “My healing was survival.” “This is your time.”

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this deeply moving and insightful episode, relationship and self-love coach Jonathan Aslay shares his powerful journey of healing after the tragic loss of his son. Through vulnerability and wisdom, Jonathan explores how grief can become a catalyst for growth, why self-worth is non-negotiable in midlife, and how to build meaningful, lasting relationships rooted in authenticity—not just chemistry.

Whether you're navigating midlife dating, recovering from emotional loss, or seeking deeper self-understanding, this episode offers tools and heartfelt truths to help you embrace self-love, develop emotional resilience, and reconnect with purpose.

What you'll learn:

• How grief can lead to profound self-discovery
• Why self-esteem is essential for healthy relationships
• How midlife challenges can become pathways to empowerment
• The impact of attachment styles and self-image on dating
• Why building love on friendship creates deeper connection

Check out Jonathan's Book: "What the Heck is Self Love Anyway?" https://a.co/d/08975RR

Chapters:

00:00 – Opening Reflections: Self-Love and Grief
02:44 – Rediscovering Identity Through Personal Loss
05:53 – Grief as a Catalyst for Self-Love
08:43 – Why Self-Worth Matters More Than Ever in Midlife
11:43 – Personal Growth: The Foundation of Healthy Love
14:32 – Midlife Dating & Self-Perception in a Filtered World
24:41 – Friendship First: A New Model for Relationships
28:00 – The Power of Emotional & Heart-Based Connection
30:53 – Understanding Attachment Styles & Inner Needs
35:52 – Choosing Empowerment Through Radical Self-Love
39:20 – Closing Thoughts: You Are Worth the Journey

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this inspiring episode, Deborah Weed opens up about her powerful transformation—from a high-achieving corporate career to becoming the founder of the Self-Worth Initiative and the Quills Up Movement. 💫

After a life-altering health crisis, Deborah began to reframe her understanding of value, moving from external validation to embracing her intrinsic worth. She shares how a simple 1943 copper penny sparked a personal revolution, leading her to create tools, stories, and a musical called Paisley to help women—especially in midlife—reclaim their creativity and self-worth.

✨ What you'll learn in this episode:

• The difference between self-esteem and self-worth
• Why creativity is a powerful force for healing and transformation
• How women can advocate for themselves in a broken healthcare system
• The emotional cost of disappointment vs. fear
• Why community and connection are non-negotiables for true resilience

🔑 Whether you're navigating midlife, recovering from burnout, or searching for a deeper sense of meaning—Deborah’s wisdom will remind you: You are valuable, even when the world tells you otherwise.

Deborah Weed

Founder of the Self-worth Initiative, LLC

Creator of Paisley The Musical

http://www.selfworthinitiative.net

http://www.paisleysfashionforest.com

https://deborahweed1.hopp.to/amazon

👇 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more soul-nourishing conversations.

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
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🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this powerful episode, Lizzie and Deana dive deep into the roots of codependency, how it’s shaped by childhood trauma, and why it often leads to low self-esteem and toxic relationship patterns. Through raw, relatable stories and hard-earned insights, they unpack how codependency shows up in everyday life — from constantly putting others first to struggling with setting boundaries.

You’ll learn why self-care isn’t selfish, how to stop minimizing harmful behavior, and the importance of building a supportive circle while healing. If you're ready to start recognizing red flags, reclaim your voice, and rebuild your confidence — this conversation is for you.

👉 Topics Covered:

• The link between codependency and childhood trauma
• Why codependents often struggle with boundaries and self-worth
• How to spot and shift toxic relationship dynamics
• Steps to begin healing and personal growth
• The power of community and small wins on the path to recovery

💬 “It starts with recognizing you matter — and your needs are valid.”

🔖 Don’t forget to follow, rate & review if this episode resonates — and share with someone who needs to hear it.

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

🎙️ Am I the Toxic One? | Surviving Toxic Relationships with Lizzie & Deana

Are you the toxic one... and don’t even know it?
In this eye-opening episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie and Deana turn the mirror inward to explore a question many avoid: Could we be contributing to the toxicity in our relationships?

Together, they unpack the subtle but critical differences between toxic behaviors and trauma responses, and how unresolved trauma might be driving harmful patterns. This isn’t about blame—it’s about self-awareness, accountability, and growth.

Through candid conversation and practical tools like journaling and self-assessment strategies, Lizzie and Deana guide you on how to:

• Recognize toxic traits in yourself and others
• Understand the root causes (like fear of abandonment)
• Take actionable steps toward healing
• Build support systems that uplift your journey
• Stop repeating toxic cycles—and start rewriting your story

Whether you’ve asked yourself “Am I the toxic one?” or just want to create healthier relationships, this episode is your roadmap to transformation.

🔍 Key Takeaways:

• Toxic behavior often stems from unhealed trauma
• Self-reflection is essential for personal growth
• Accountability is the first step toward lasting change
• Support systems and journaling can accelerate healing
• You can change—and the desire to do so is your greatest strength

👉 Hit play to reflect, reset, and rise above the toxicity—starting with you.

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share if this episode resonates. Your journey matters, and we’re right here with you.

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this powerful and compassionate episode, Lizzie and Deana dive deep into the emotional complexities of leaving toxic relationships. They explore the internal battles many face—fear, guilt, and trauma bonds—and how these emotions can make leaving feel even more difficult than staying.

Through real talk and heartfelt insights, they shed light on:

• Why the fear of the unknown often feels safer than taking the leap,
• How guilt and shame can sabotage healing,
• And most importantly, the critical role of community support in navigating this painful transition.

Whether you're considering leaving, in the process, or supporting someone who is—this episode offers a grounded, honest, and hopeful roadmap forward.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Leaving a toxic relationship brings both relief and fear—both are normal.
• Emotions are temporary; healing is possible.
• Supportive community is essential to break free and stay free.
• Trauma bonds can keep you attached even when you want out.
• Feelings of guilt and regret are common—but not facts.
• Staying rooted in truth is your greatest weapon.
• The fear of change can be deceivingly comfortable.
• Documenting your "why" can keep you strong during weak moments.
• It's okay to feel awkward and unsure in the beginning.
• Healing is not linear—be patient and kind to yourself.

❤️ Connect & Share

If this episode resonates with you or someone you love, please:

• 💬 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts
• 🔁 Share this episode with a friend or support group
• 📲 Follow the show for more honest conversations and healing insights

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this deeply moving episode, Avonley Lightstone, Author of "Strength of Scars", opens up about her powerful journey from unimaginable loss to unshakable faith. After losing her mother at 3 years old in a tragic fire and enduring years of emotional and physical abuse in her adoptive home, Avonley shares how finding God became a turning point in her path to healing.

Through candid conversation, she explores the importance of not internalizing trauma, the personal nature of forgiveness, and how denial can block true healing. Avonlea reminds us that our scars can become symbols of resilience—and that with faith, hope, and support, even the most painful stories can be transformed into sources of strength.

If you or someone you love has faced trauma, abuse, or grief, this episode offers a powerful message: healing is possible, and you are not alone.

Check out Avonley's book here!    https://bit.ly/StrengthofScars

 🌐 Site:  avonleylightstone.com
TikTok: ‪@AvonleyLightstone‬
Instagram: @avonleylightstone
YouTube: ‪@AvonleyLightstone‬ 

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
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🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

Contact us anytime at our email: [email protected]

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