In this episode, I dive deeper into the tangled roots of how we’re taught to chase love, especially as women. From fairy tales to Sex and the City, I trace how my type (spoiler: it’s the villain) and my savior complex led me into emotionally abusive relationships I didn’t know how to name at the time.

I talk about falling for the idea of fixing people, losing myself in the process, and the wake-up call that pushed me toward something radically different: van life. I share what it looked like to design my escape. From custom safety features to a cross-country build, but also what it felt like to outgrow the dream I thought would save me.

Plus: a chaotic, emotional trip to New York, a flight from hell, and the unexpected magic of meeting a stranger who reminded me how deeply women show up for each other.

Content note: This episode discusses emotional abuse, trauma, and grief.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-high-functioning-alcoholic/201702/the-savior-complex

https://www.thehotline.org/

Pop Culture Mentions:

• Sex and the City (HBO)
• He's Just Not That Into You (2009)
• Moulin Rouge! (Broadway)
• Six the Musical (Broadway)
• Stranger Things: The First Shadow (Broadway)
• Maybe Happy Ending (Broadway)