The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast

By Amanda Lynette Arnier, MLSSociety & Culture True Crime Relationships Personal Journals

The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast episodes

July 12, 2024 Let's Chat with Vanessa Reiser, LCSW
Dear Diary & Listeners,
In this exciting Bonus Episode of The Dichotomy Diaries, I interview the beautiful, bad ass, Vanessa Reiser, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from The Big Apple who's got a BOOK coming out soon! (Pre-Order Link Below!)
We talk about SO many juicy topics including the connection between narcissistic abuse and cults, the behavior and mindset of narcissists and psychopaths, and dissect the experience of victims down piece by piece.
We touch on the confusing role most family members take in (not) warning others about the narcissist in their life. Join us as we break down the challenges of conveying the complexity of narcissistic abuse in a concise manner others. A topic that I've really struggled with lately...
This episode also explores trauma bonding and addiction in narcissistic relationships. Vanessa and I talk about the repetitive cycle of love bombing, devaluing, and discarding, which creates a trauma bond and intense addiction to the makeup session.
Vanessa emphasizes the need for support and understanding for those trying to extricate themselves from these relationships, comparing it to drug addiction. Not to mention the post-separation abuse that can occur, which more often than not, includes attempts to destroy the victim's life.
I had SO MUCH FUN chatting in up with Vanessa and learning all the things from her not only about my relationship with Dick, but about important topics and congruencies I wasn't even aware of.
Forever Speaking My Truth, Amanda
Be sure to check below for Vanessa's website, how to find her on Social Media, and Pre-Order her new book: Narcissistic Abuse: A Therapist's Guide to Identifying, Escaping, and Healing from Toxic and Manipulative People.

@vanessareiserlcsw-narcissi5380
Website: https://www.tellatherapist.net
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessareiserlcsw
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vanessareiser
BOOK PRE ORDER: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0306833174

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Vanessa Reiser, LCSW
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast
TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 2 min
July 02, 2024 SAVANA - Straight to Zelle: Part 2
Dear Diary & Listeners,
I think we may have uncovered something important during this episode...
As Savana and I discuss how her and Dick's engagement came to an abrupt end, I realize that I share with her that she had NO idea about.
Imagine her surprise when I fill her in on what HER FIANCE was doing way back when. Better yet, imagine the AUDACITY this man has to tell me the truth about his whereabouts and doings, while completely leaving out the fact that he was actively engaged to this beautiful human.
Savana and I really want to emphasize how important it is to continue to do things for YOURSELF while in a relationship, NEW or OLD, you need to maintain your sense of self at all cost.
Luckily for Savana, Dick wasn't able to break her spirit like he did many others, myself included. Savana's fighter soul is what gave her the strength to persevere and know what was best for her... A LIFE WITHOUT DICK.
Let's be honest, that's literally what's best for everyone.
I hope you enjoyed hearing Savana's story and have some good takeaways.
Whether you're in a similar relationship, or know someone who is struggling to get out- just remember that your presence matters in the life of others.
Whether they are gracious or not.
Forever Sharing My Truth,
Amanda L. Arnier, MLS

Savana's Hair Instagram
Savana's Personal Instagram
Savana's TikTok

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Savana Martin
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast

TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 31 min
June 20, 2024 SAVANA - Straight to Zelle: Part 1
Dear Diary & Listeners,
In today’s episode, I am joined by a very special guest—Savana, who was once engaged to Dick. From the moment I reached out to her, Savana has been a pillar of support in uncovering the shocking truths about our shared ex.
Savana’s story is one of beauty, resilience, and positive energy. She brings her sassy and captivating personality to this conversation, making for an episode you won't want to miss. Together, we dive into the complexities of their experiences with Dick, revealing insights that are both startling and compelling.
This episode marks part one of their revealing conversation, titled “Straight to Zelle.” Be sure to give Savana a follow, her social media links are listed below!
Oh, go check out the video recording of this podcast, now live on YouTube. Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel, each podcast episode drops on YouTube before anywhere else!
Forever Sharing My Truth,
Amanda L. Arnier, MLS

Savana's Hair Instagram
Savana's Personal Instagram
Savana's TikTok

Stay tuned for PART 2 of Straight to Zelle coming out NEXT WEEK!

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Savana Martin
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast

TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 53 min
June 20, 2024 AMBRE - Summer Solstice: Part 3
Dear Diary & Listeners,

HAPPY SUMMER SOLSTICE!

I know right? Quite coincidental for the LAST part of Ambre's story to be released wouldn't you say?

I love it when things like that happen.

I also love it when you can tell by the look in someone's face that a weight has been lifted from sharing something they kept to themselves for so long.

I applaud Ambre for making herself vulnerable and putting herself out there by telling this story.

In this episode you will hear some pretty shocking things...

From Dick's unconventional bedroom requests to a new scary part to his persona- stalking...

I hope you enjoy Summer Solstice Part 3.

Please make sure you give Ambre a follow, her links are below and make sure you head over and subscribe to YouTube. All episodes are released there FIRST.

Forever Speaking My Truth,
Amanda L. Arnier, MLS

Instagram: @AmbreFit
YouTube: @ambrefit
Twitter: @TheAmbreFit
TikTok: @AmbreFit
www.AmbreFit.com

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Ambre McKee
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast

TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 6 min
June 04, 2024 AMBRE - Summer Solstice: Part 2
Dear Diary & Listeners,
In this powerful and raw episode of The Dichotomy Diaries, Amanda sits down with Ambre to uncover the many layers of their toxic relationships. The conversation delves into several deeply personal themes, including:
Strained Family Dynamics: Amanda shares insights into the troubled relationship between her husband and his father, exposing the negative family dynamics and emotional abuse she endured.

Financial Control and Manipulation: Both Amanda and Ambre discuss the financial issues they faced, including how their partners used money as a tool for control and manipulation.

Emotional and Verbal Abuse: They recount the hurtful comments, derogatory language, and verbal attacks that characterized their relationships, highlighting the damaging impact on their mental health.

Gambling Addiction: The episode explores the significant role that Amanda's husband's gambling addiction played in their lives, adding another layer of complexity to the abuse.

Conflict Diffusion: Amanda and Ambre describe their roles as peacemakers in constant conflicts, often at the expense of their own well-being.

Suspicious Friendships: The conversation also touches on the suspicious and unhealthy relationship between Amanda's husband, Dick, and his friend Matt.
The episode continues with Ambre's experiences of manipulation, coercion, and financial abuse in her relationship. Key points include:
Broken Promises and Anxiety: Ambre recounts how her partner's broken promises left her feeling scared and anxious, a sentiment Amanda relates to deeply.

Self-Prioritization and Derogation: They discuss how their partners prioritized themselves, often putting Ambre down and making her feel insignificant.

Steroids and Hormone Therapy: Ambre shares how her partner's involvement with steroids and hormone therapy affected their relationship, including an incident of physical aggression.

Car Situation: They talk about the partner's procrastination in getting a new car, reflecting his overall lack of responsibility.
Finally, Amanda and Ambre discuss their experiences living with a narcissist, shedding light on:
Unstable Living Conditions: They share stories of being moved to different apartments without consent, contributing to financial instability.

Empty Promises: The narcissists' habit of making promises and failing to follow through, leaving them in precarious situations during trips and daily life.

Obsession with Fitness: The narcissists' fixation on gyms and fitness, and how it impacted their relationships.

Dangerous Behavior: Accounts of physically aggressive behavior during "play fights" and the narcissists' lack of remorse.
Through this candid conversation, Amanda and Ambre highlight the manipulative, unpredictable, and damaging nature of their relationships with narcissists. Tune in to hear their stories and gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of abusive relationships.

Remember to share this episode if it resonates with you or someone you know, and follow The Dichotomy Diaries for more stories of strength and resilience.

Forever Speaking My Truth,
Amanda

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Ambre McKee
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast
TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 17 min
May 29, 2024 AMBRE - Summer Solstice: Part 1
Dear Diary & Listeners,
In today's episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ambre to delve into the whirlwind of emotions and experiences that come with falling in love with a Wolf in Sheep's clothing.
Ambre takes us through her journey of meeting our shared ex, where the sparks flew and the relationship progressed rapidly. She opens up about the initial attraction, the deepening of their feelings, and the shared belief that they had each found their soulmate.
Our conversation also takes a personal turn as Ambre shares insights into her background, family life, and religious upbringing, providing a rich context to her part of this story.
We navigate through my own experiences, recounting the excitement and connection I felt upon meeting Dick. I reveal the challenges and discoveries I faced, including the surprising revelations about his past engagements and financial behaviors that led to a stark realization of dishonesty and manipulation.
Together, Ambre and I explore the intricate dynamics of our scarily similar relationships, from meeting significant family members to confronting the turmoil and uncertainties that emerged. It's a heartfelt and eye-opening discussion about love, trust, and the lessons we learn along the way.
Thank you for tuning in, and I hope this episode resonates with you as much as it did with me.
You can learn more about Ambre by checking out her socials below:
Instagram: @AmbreFit
YouTube: @ambrefit
Twitter: @TheAmbreFit
TikTok: @AmbreFit
www.AmbreFit.com

Stay tuned for PART 2 or this THREE part story next week!

Forever Speaking My Truth,
Amanda Arnier, MLS

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Ambre McKee
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast
TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 23 min
May 18, 2024 KYLIE - All Bark. No Bite.
Dear Diary & Listeners,
In this episode, Kylie opens up about what drove her to be part of The Dichotomy Diaries podcast as we reflect on our shared experiences with relationships.
Join me as Kylie Brocato bravely shares her story about dating Dick, a man with a violent criminal history. What started with attraction and compliments soon turned into a nightmare of verbal abuse, manipulation, and attempts to disrupt her co-parenting relationship.
Despite the chaos, Kylie’s strength shone through, and she ultimately ended the toxic relationship, leading to a much healthier co-parenting dynamic with her ex. We dive deep into the dynamics of Kylie's relationship with Dick, including his neglect of his own children while trying to claim hers, his financial instability and gambling, and his secret life as a sex worker for men!
Kylie’s revelation about being deceived by Dick's false narratives highlights the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing red flags. We also discuss how Dick used location sharing as a control tactic, the financial strain he caused, and his outrageous public behavior.
Join us for a heartfelt and insightful conversation that underscores the importance of resilience, boundaries, and self-awareness in relationships. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes every week! 💖

Forever Speaking My Truth,
Amanda

CLICK HERE FOR THE VIDEO RECORDING OF THIS EPISODE!

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Kylie Brocato
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast
TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 25 min
May 02, 2024 ROHANNA - Never Been Pro
Dear Diary & Listeners,
In this deep and insightful conversation, Rohanna and I explore Rohanna’s multifaceted life experiences, touching on her early life on Whidbey Island, her journey through homeschooling, and her early marriage. Rohanna also shares about her collaborative natural body care business with her mom in the Pacific Northwest, and the beauty of living near the orcas.
The conversation shifts to more personal themes, delving into Rohanna’s past narcissistic relationship with you guessed it....Dick. The revelations of abuse begin to align with the healing power of storytelling as we both reflect on the importance of empathy, accountability, and reciprocity. We candidly discuss the dynamics of different relationships, from familial to romantic, highlighting the lessons learned about safety, trust, and maintaining one’s individuality.
Throughout, Rohanna hopes her openness helps others feel less alone, emphasizing the strength found in shared stories and the support of true friendship- an amazing byproduct of Dick's treacherous ways.
Please give Rohanna a follow and support her business:
https://www.sweetsistersbodycare.com
Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetsistersbodycare
Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildonefit

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Rohanna Wildon
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast
TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 44 min
April 26, 2024 JOANNA - Houston, We Have a Squatter: Part 2
Dear Diary & Listeners,
In this segment of the conversation, Joanna and Amanda delve into the intricate dynamics of Joanna's relationship with her ex-partner, Dick.
They explore Dick's isolated lifestyle, his fixation on fitness and steroid use, as well as his troubling control over Joanna's diet and body image. Furthermore, they shed light on his neglectful behavior as a father to his daughter.
The discussion also touches upon Dick's manipulative tactics, including his skillful redirection during arguments and exploitation of Joanna's talents and creativity.
Joanna bravely shares her profound sense of entrapment and manipulation in the relationship, detailing the emotional and physical abuse she endured. She recounts harrowing experiences, including a violent incident where Dick attempted to suffocate her.
Amidst the darkness, Joanna opens up about her journey to healing and the pivotal role therapy played in her recovery process.
Follow Joanna and support her business ventures through the links below:
Personal Instagram: @_joannahans
Business Instagram: @livingbreadbakehouse
TikTok: @joanna.hans
Business Website: https://www.joannahans.com

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Joanna Hans
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast
TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 12 min
April 17, 2024 JOANNA - Houston, We Have a Squatter: Part 1
Dear Diary & Listeners,
In this compelling episode, Amanda sits down with Joanna to delve into her personal journey with a former partner who, coincidentally, they both know.
Joanna candidly shares the story of their meeting, the subtle early signs of manipulation she noticed, and the profound impact it had on her life.
Both Amanda and Joanna hope that by sharing this story, it will provide solace to others and illuminate the realities of narcissistic abuse. They explore the characteristics of women often targeted by narcissists and the manipulative tactics they employ.
From the outset, Joanna's father had reservations about Dick. Yet, Dick managed to maintain a convincing facade, impressing Joanna's family to some extent.
As circumstances would have it, Joanna found herself becoming roommates with Dick, eventually leading to an "exclusive" relationship...or so she thought.
The relationship seemed picture-perfect on social media, providing Joanna with a sense of security. However, this facade crumbled when she began receiving messages about Dick's inappropriate behavior.
Joanna soon recognized that Dick had used his Mormon faith as yet another tool for manipulation.
In addition to this, Joanna discovered some of Dick's unconventional side hustles, one of which even surprised Amanda.
Much like Amanda, Joanna found herself trapped in a trauma bond with Dick, experiencing lies, abandonment, verbal abuse, and coercion firsthand.
VIDEO RECORDINGS OF EPISODES ARE HERE!
Please give Joanna a follow & support her business!
Personal Instagram: @_joannahans
Business Instagram: @livingbreadbakehouse
TikTok: @joanna.hans
Business Website: https://www.joannahans.com

WE ARE ACTIVELY LOOKING FOR SEASON TWO'S STORY!
If you or anyone you know has experienced anything similar and is willing to share, please click the link below to schedule a time to chat with me.
Season Two Story Pitch Call
Email: [email protected]
Music: Ashley England
Guest: Joanna Hans
Sound Production: Amanda L. Arnier
Patreon: The Dichotomy Diaries
Merch: The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast Storefront
YouTube: Video Recordings of Episodes!
Podcast Website: www.TheDichotomyDiaries.com
Insta: @TheDichotomyDiariesPodcast
TikTok: @TheDichotomyDiaries
Facebook: The Dichotomy Diaries
1 hr 23 min

About The Dichotomy Diaries Podcast

From the publisher's feed

When host Amanda meets Dick—a seemingly charming Mormon man from Las Vegas who pursued her relentlessly on social media—she had no idea the chaos that was about to unfold. What began as a whirlwind…