The Gaslight Effect Podcast

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern delves into the insidious tactics of manipulation and control that leave victims questioning their reality, with guest Chris Shelton.

Chris is a former Scientologist and Sea Org member who spent 25 years within the Church of Scientology, enduring relentless physical and psychological abuse. Since his escape, Chris has devoted his life to shedding light on the dangers of destructive cults and their gaslighting techniques.

Chris is a writer, consultant, podcaster, and YouTuber, and he hosts the Speaking of Cults podcast. Chris is also the author of "Scientology: A to Xenu – An Insider's Guide to What Scientology is Really All About." Chris has appeared on numerous podcasts and television shows, including Leah Remini's Scientology and the Aftermath on A&E.

Robin and Chris explore his profound insights and personal experiences with gaslighting within cults, and offer advice on how to recognize and combat these manipulative tactics.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Dr. Kerry McAvoy Podcast - Breaking Free From Narcissistic Abuse - https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern welcomes Dr. Ramani Durvasula. Dr. Ramani is a renowned clinical psychologist, best-selling author, and a leading expert in the field of narcissism and narcissistic personality disorder. With her extensive research and deep insights into the dynamics of toxic relationships, she has become a beacon of hope for many navigating the treacherous waters of narcissistic abuse.

Dr. Ramani is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice and a distinguished professor of psychology at California State University, Los Angeles. With a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from UCLA, she brings a wealth of academic rigor and practical experience to her work.

Her contributions to the field extend beyond the classroom and therapy room; she is a prolific author of several best-selling books, including "Should I Stay or Should I Go: Surviving a Relationship with a Narcissist" and "Don't You Know Who I Am?: How to Stay Sane in an Era of Narcissism, Entitlement, and Incivility."

Dr. Ramani's work has shed light on the pervasive and often insidious nature of gaslighting, helping countless individuals recognize and break free from the manipulative tactics that erode their self-esteem and well-being. Her extensive media presence, including television appearances, podcasts, and her highly informative YouTube channel, has made her insights accessible to a global audience.

Robin and Dr. Ramani delve into the intricate patterns of gaslighting, explaining how narcissists use this tool to control and confuse their victims. They offer practical advice on identifying gaslighting in your own life and discuss strategies to reclaim your power and rebuild your sense of self.

Whether you're dealing with a narcissistic partner, family member, or colleague, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and actionable tips to help you navigate and overcome the effects of gaslighting.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Dr. Kerry McAvoy Podcast - Breaking Free From Narcissistic Abuse - https://www.breakingfreenarcissisticabuse.com/

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

Welcome to another episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, with Dr. Robin Stern. Today, Robin has a very special guest, Anne Blythe, the Producer and Host of the acclaimed BTR.ORG Podcast and author of the powerful book "Trauma Mama Husband Drama." Anne is not just a voice of experience; she's a beacon of hope and guidance for countless women navigating the turbulent waters of emotional and psychological abuse.

Anne has dedicated her life to helping women find safety and peace after betrayal. Through her transformative workshops—The BTR.ORG Meditation, Living Free, and Message Workshops—Anne provides practical tools and heartfelt support to those seeking to reclaim their lives from the shadows of gaslighting, abuse and coercion.

In today's episode, Anne will share her personal journey of overcoming her husband's gaslighting, pornography use and anger issues, and how she turned her focus to establishing emotional and psychological safety for herself and her three children. Her real-time learning and insights have empowered many women to safely separate from abusive relationships and create harmonious homes.

Join Robin and Anne as they delve into her story, offering invaluable advice and inspiration to help you recognize, confront, and heal from gaslighting and betrayal trauma. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern talks with Dr. Janja Lalich.

Janja is a distinguished sociologist, a leading expert on cults and coercive control, and a guiding light for those navigating the dark waters of psychological manipulation. Drawing from her own years as a cult member of the Democratic Workers Party in California, she brings a deeply personal perspective to her research. Her groundbreaking work has helped countless individuals understand and recover from the effects of toxic relationships and environments.

She is the author of pivotal books such as "Take Back Your Life: Recovering from Cults and Abusive Relationships," "Bounded Choice: True Believers and Charismatic Cults," and "Cults in Our Midst."

She is also the founder and director of the Lalich Center for the Study of Groups and Coercion, where she continues to support and educate those affected by manipulative groups and relationships.

On today's episode, we're diving into the intricacies of gaslighting—what it is, how it operates, and the profound impact it can have on our lives. Dr. Stern and Dr. Lalich explore how this form of psychological abuse unfolds in both personal relationships and within larger groups, and most importantly, how to recognize and break free from it.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, Dr. Robin Stern unravels the complexities of belief, identity, and society with political correspondent and author Sarah McCammon.

Sarah McCammon is not just a seasoned journalist; she's also a voice of insight and understanding in the midst of today's tumultuous political landscape. But what sets her apart is her personal journey—a journey that intersects faith, culture, and the very fabric of American society.

Growing up in the heartland of Kansas City, Missouri, Sarah was immersed in an evangelical Christian community that taught her to fear God and never question her faith. But her worldview shifted when she ventured beyond the confines of her upbringing. It was during her time in the Senate Page Program, living in Washington, D.C., that she began to confront the complexities of belief and identity head-on.

Now, as a national political correspondent for NPR, Sarah brings a unique perspective to her reporting, drawing from her own experiences to shed light on the intersections of religion and politics in America.

Her latest endeavor, the groundbreaking book "The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living, and Leaving the White Evangelical Church," delves into the stories of those who, like herself, have grappled with their faith and ultimately forged a new path forward.

Join us as we explore Sarah McCammon's journey from evangelicalism to advocacy, uncovering the gaslighting tactics that have shaped our political discourse and the resilience of those who dare to challenge the status quo.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern is honored to be joined by two extraordinary individuals whose resilience and courage have transformed their experiences into beacons of hope.

Sarah Edmondson, a Canadian actress known for her roles in CBS's "Salvation" and numerous Hallmark Channel and Lifetime films, embarked on a journey of self-discovery when she encountered NXIVM, a personal development company led by Keith Raniere, promising the keys to unlocking human potential.

Alongside her husband and former college athlete, Anthony "Nippy" Ames, Sarah delved deep into NXIVM's teachings. Rising through the ranks, they both became integral figures within the organization, with Anthony drawn to its goals program and Sarah operating her own center in Vancouver.

However, their seemingly idyllic journey took a dark turn when they uncovered the truth behind NXIVM's facade. With courage and determination, Sarah blew the whistle on the organization's gaslighting and abusive practices, while Anthony wasted no time in helping burn its carefully constructed public image to the ground.

In 2019, Sarah published Scarred: The True Story of How I Escaped NXIVM, the Cult that Bound My Life, with Kristine Gasbarre. In this tell-all memoir, she shares her story from the moment she takes her first seminar to her harrowing fight to get out. Sarah and Anthony's full story as whistleblowers is featured in The Vow, the critically acclaimed HBO documentary series on NXIVM. Also be sure to check out Sarah's powerful TED Talk about How To Spot A Cult.

Now, as hosts of the enlightening podcast "A Little Bit Culty," Sarah and Anthony continue to shine a light on the healing process, engaging with experts and fellow survivors to navigate the complexities of recovery and resilience.

Join Robin as she delves into the depths of gaslighting and coercion with Sarah Edmondson and Anthony "Nippy" Ames, and explores how they emerged with newfound understanding and empowerment.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

A QUICK WARNING: This episode contains discussions of traumatic events, violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, and graphic language. Listener discretion is advised.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern dives into the extraordinary journey of Jessica Willis Fisher—a tale of survival, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

Jessica's story unfolds with the haunting echoes of a tumultuous childhood, where the enigmatic philosophies of her controlling father cast a long shadow over her early years. From dreams of being surrounded by books to fantasies of becoming an author, Jessica's aspirations were stifled by the suffocating grip of manipulation and gaslighting.

In her gripping memoir, "Unspeakable: Surviving My Childhood and Finding My Voice," Jessica offers a searing account of a life shaped by silence, secrecy, and the insidious tactics of gaslighting. Through the chaos of her upbringing, she grappled with doubts about her own reality—wondering if other girls faced the same forbidden truths, if other mothers feared their husbands, if other daddies invaded their daughters' bedrooms at night.

Despite the darkness that threatened to consume her, Jessica found solace in music—a refuge where her voice could break free from the chains of manipulation and reclaim its truth. As she resurfaced with her debut solo album, "Brand New Day," Jessica embraced her voice with a newfound sense of purpose and passion. Each note became a declaration of independence, each melody a testament to the strength found in vulnerability.

Join us as we delve deeper into Jessica's story, exploring the themes of survival, empowerment, the transformative power of art, the impact of gaslighting on her journey and the resilience that led her to reclaim her voice.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

A QUICK WARNING: This episode contains discussions of traumatic events, violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts, anxiety, depression, and graphic language. Listener discretion is advised.

Welcome to the Gaslight Effect Podcast, where we explore stories of courage, healing, and transformation. On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern has the privilege of speaking with Lucas Mack, a visionary leader who guides men on a pilgrimage of self-discovery and healing.

Lucas Mack's retreats offer a sacred space for men to embark on a journey inward—a journey to slay the pain of their past and reclaim their freedom. Surrounded by fellow seekers, participants confront their inner dragons, speak their truth, and embark on a path of healing that transcends the confines of their past traumas.

And now, Lucas has released his latest eBook, "Healing Our Soul to Find Our Light," a profound guide for those seeking to break free from the shadows of their past and step into the light of their true selves.

Lucas Mack's work is deeply rooted in his own journey of overcoming gaslighting and reclaiming his truth. Once a million-dollar business owner with a painful secret, Lucas is now liberated and changing lives as a coach, speaker, and healing catalyst.

If you met Lucas, you'd never know that he's a survivor of pretty horrific childhood abuse and trauma. On the outside, he appeared to have it all—a supportive wife, adorable children, a successful track record, an outgoing personality, the dream house, the big smile. But beneath the surface of that perfect picture, Lucas was severely depressed, anxious, and, at one point, suicidal.

It wasn't until 2016 that Lucas understood why. A conversation with his abuser triggered a flood of traumatic memories from his childhood, forcing him to confront his past and seek healing. Through therapy, medication, and ultimately, an emotional intelligence seminar where he bravely shared his deepest truth with others, Lucas found the courage to confront his demons head-on.

Join Robin as she delves into Lucas Mack's remarkable journey of transformation and resilience, shedding light on the insidious nature of gaslighting and the power of reclaiming one's truth. Lucas's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of courage, compassion, and confronting gaslighting.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

IS social media toxic for women and girls? On this episode, Dr. Kara Alaimo, author of "Over the Influence: Why Social Media is Toxic for Women and Girls - And How We Can Take It Back," hashes it out with Dr. Robin Stern.

Kara is a communication professor at Fairleigh Dickinson, where she created the university's programs in social media, and has been writing for CNN Opinion about the social impact of social media and issues affecting women and girls since 2016.

Kara's latest release, "Over the Influence: Why Social Media is Toxic for Women and Girls - And How We Can Take It Back," is a timely and essential exploration of the impact of social media on women and girls, and highlights the need for meanigful conversations about gaslighting's pervasive influence in the digital age.

In exploring her new book release, Robin and Kara delve deep into the multifaceted ways social media shapes women's lives, from relationships and parenting to mental well-being. Dr. Alaimo illuminates how these platforms often perpetuate sexism and misogyny, targeting women with disparities in followership, fake news, and harmful content.

Despite these challenges, Kara empowers women with practical strategies to navigate the digital landscape. From managing daughters' social media usage to leveraging platforms for career advancement, Kara equips us with tools to reclaim control and protect ourselves from online threats.

"Over the Influence" serves as a rallying cry for women to challenge sexism, advocate for change, and foster inclusivity in the digital sphere.

Join us as we embark on a transformative journey with Kara Alaimo, unraveling the complexities of social media and reclaiming our power in the digital age.

You can read the full transcript of this episode and listen to other episodes, at robinstern.com, and please leave a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast!

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern dives into the transformative journey of Emily Paulson - a beacon of courage, resilience, and authenticity in the realm of wellness and empowerment.

Emily Paulson's remarkable journey, chronicled in her books "Highlight Real: Finding Honesty & Recovery Beyond the Filtered Life" and "Hey, Hun: Sales, Sisterhood, Supremacy, and the Other Lies Behind Multilevel Marketing," offers profound insights into the complexities of addiction recovery, motherhood, and the insidious nature of gaslighting.

In discussing her book "Highlight Real" with Robin, Emily talks about fearlessly confronting the shadows of addiction and gaslighting, sharing her personal odyssey of overcoming alcohol addiction and embracing sobriety. Through raw honesty and vulnerability, she shines a light on the manipulative tactics that seek to distort our reality and erode our sense of self-worth.

But Emily's exploration extends beyond addiction recovery. She also discusses with Robin her reason for writing her book "Hey, Hun," in which she exposes the hidden truths behind the glossy facade of multilevel marketing schemes, unraveling the gaslighting tactics that prey on vulnerability and perpetuate harmful ideologies. Her incisive analysis challenges conventional narratives, prompting readers and listeners to question the pervasive 'Hey, Hun' messages flooding our inboxes.

Moreover, Emily is the driving force behind the "Sober Mom Squad" - a sanctuary where motherhood intersects with sobriety, and connections flourish. This Squad, comprised of moms navigating the delicate balance of motherhood and sobriety, provides a lifeline of understanding and support. Through shared stories and unwavering solidarity, the Sober Mom Squad creates pockets of community in the midst of solitude.

Join Robin and Emily as they explore the transformative power of vulnerability, resilience, and connection. Through her courageous journey, Emily invites us to reclaim our truth, embrace our imperfections, and walk boldly along the path to self-discovery and empowerment.

You can read the full transcript of this episode and listen to other episodes, at robinstern.com, and please leave a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast!

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.