In this powerful and deeply honest episode of The StacyM Show, Stacy is joined by digital marketing founder and podcast host Phoebe Lay to talk about narcissistic abuse, domestic violence, and how court processes can be weaponised as a tool of ongoing control.

Phoebe bravely shares her lived experience of a love-bombed beginning, subtle manipulation, and the long, exhausting aftermath that followed. Together, Stacy and Phoebe unpack why leaving is so hard, why court is not always the empowering solution people think it is, and how healing often begins when you stop fighting and start choosing yourself.

This is not about blaming men or women. It is about recognising manipulation, protecting your energy, and understanding when walking away is actually the strongest move you can make.

Why narcissistic and toxic partners often use court as a control tactic

How love bombing turns into addiction and self-doubt

When legal action helps and when it keeps you stuck

Why “letting them think they’ve won” can be the real win

The power of trauma-informed healing tools like EMDR, hypnotherapy, and somatic work

If you keep fighting, you may still be giving them what they want. Your energy, your attention, your time.

Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is stop engaging and start living.

If this episode resonated with you:

Share it with someone who might need to hear this today

Book a confidential call if you need guidance around separation, boundaries, or legal strategy

Visit the website to explore resources that support healing beyond the courtroom

Book a call or explore support options:
www.stacymunzenberger.com 

Phoebe Lay
Founder of Thrive & Shine Co.
Podcast: Inspired to Thrive & Shine

Support Resources (Australia):
1800Respect
The Orange Door
Local family violence and legal support services

Sometimes the most powerful move isn’t winning in court. It’s walking away with your peace intact.

About Phoebe

Phoebe Lay is a multi-award-winning social media strategist, global speaker, trainer, and founder of Thrive & Shine Co. She works with purpose-driven entrepreneurs and service-based businesses to build strong online presence through heart-led strategy, authentic storytelling, and results-driven marketing. Phoebe is also the host of The Inspired to Thrive & Shine Podcast, where she shares raw, inspiring conversations with global experts, authors, and thought leaders.

#TheStacyMShow #NarcissisticAbuseRecovery #CoerciveControl #DomesticViolenceAwareness
#FamilyLawReality #TraumaInformedHealing #LeavingToxicRelationships
#CourtAbuse #EmotionalAbuse #HealingAfterAbuse #PhoebeLay

Ever feel like someone is quietly messing with your mind, leaving you confused, drained, or second-guessing yourself? Yep, that’s manipulation and it shows up in ways you might not even realise.

In this episode of The StacyM Show, I get real about manipulation, narcissistic behaviour, and toxic dynamics at work, in friendships, and in relationships. I share a personal story about recognising manipulation during a vulnerable time in my own life, and give practical tips for spotting it, protecting yourself, and reclaiming your power. You’ll leave feeling seen, empowered, and ready to set boundaries that actually stick.

What You’ll Learn:

How to spot gaslighting, love-bombing, and other manipulative tactics

Why manipulation often hits hardest when you’re distracted or vulnerable

How to set boundaries that protect your mental and emotional well-being

Practical steps to limit engagement with toxic people without guilt

Ways to lean on support systems and practice self-compassion

If this episode resonates, share it with someone who might need these insights, check out my ebook for a deeper dive, or book a chat with me to talk about your own experiences.

Stacey M Website - https://www.stacymunzenberger.com

Grab the eBook on Narcissistic & Manipulative Behaviour - https://www.transformwithstacy.com/the-narcissist-playbook

Book a 1:1 Call with Stacy - https://www.stacymunzenberger.com/contact

Manipulation is about their behaviour, not your worth—so shut the guilt down and reclaim your power.\

#ToxicRelationships #NarcissisticAbuse #Manipulation #SelfCareTips #SetBoundaries #EmpowerYourself

Ever had one of those days where you’re not technically falling apart… but you’re definitely not thriving?
Yep. Same. In this episode, Stacy gets real about the moments when life feels heavy — the lonely days, the overwhelmed days, the “I don’t even know where to start” days.

Inspired by a raw post from a struggling mum, Stacy shares practical, non-fluffy tools to help you reset, breathe, and move forward (even if it’s just one tiny step). No toxic positivity. No pretending everything is fine. Just honest support for the days you need it most.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

How to name what you’re feeling so it stops controlling you

The power of doing one small thing to break the overwhelm

Why movement (even a 30-second dance) shifts your emotional state

How to use connection to break loneliness without overexplaining yourself

The simple mindset shift that helps you keep going — without pressure

If this episode helped you feel seen (or just a little less alone), please share it with someone who might need a pick-me-up today.
And if you’re navigating separation, big emotions, or major life changes, you can book a call with me anytime through my website.

“You can have a hard moment and still move forward. One tiny step is still a step.”

Connect with Stacy:

Website: www.stacymunzenberger.com 

Instagram/Facebook: @stacymunzenberger

 #TheStacyMShow #EmotionalWellbeing #OverwhelmSupport #MentalHealthTools #SeparationSupport #LifeReset #RealTalkWithStacy

Okay, real talk—this is not the kind of topic you bring up over Sunday brunch… but honestly, it probably should be. In today’s episode, we’re diving into binding death nominations—what they are, why they matter, and how they can save your family from arguments, delays, and a whole lot of stress down the track.

Most people assume their will covers everything. Spoiler: it doesn’t. Your super sits outside your estate unless you specifically tell it otherwise—and if you don’t? Well… let’s just say some people have accidentally left hundreds of thousands of dollars to their ex without knowing it.

Grab a cuppa, settle in, and let’s make sure that’s not you.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

What a binding death nomination actually is (in plain English)

The difference between binding, non-binding, and non-lapsing nominations

Who you can legally nominate—and who you can’t

Why this is crucial if you’re separated, in a blended family, or mid-divorce

The simple steps to get your nomination sorted (without the overwhelm)

Want Support Through Separation or Estate Planning?

If you’re navigating separation, property division, or simply want clarity before things ever get messy:

👉 Book a call or learn more about the Empowered Separation Program at www.stacymunzenberger.com 

And if this episode helped you, please share it with someone who needs it. You never know whose future you might be protecting.

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAhQgw6sVQvs-5VAz0lsIzQ

Work with Stacy – www.stacymunzenberger.com 

Join the Empowered Separation Program: https://www.transformwithstacy.com/separation-support-program

Read the full blog for this episode: The One Superannuation Mistake That Could Leave Your Family in Chaos

One of the most loving things you can do for your family is remove the confusion you won’t be here to explain.

#TheStacyMShow #EmpoweredSeparation #SuperannuationTips #EstatePlanning #SeparationSupport #AussieFinance #BlendedFamilySupport

Do you know what really explodes in January?
Not gym memberships. Not green juice sales.
My inbox.
Every year, people come out of the Christmas chaos and finally admit to themselves: “This relationship isn’t working — now what?”
If that’s you, take a breath (a real one, not whatever weird inhale I attempted in this recording). You’re not alone — and in this episode, I walk you through the exact first steps to take when you’re thinking about separation, without overwhelm, panic Googling, or blowing thousands in legal fees.

What You’ll Learn

The real reason January is famously called “Divorce Month” — and why it’s not something to fear.

The brain dump exercise that gives you clarity, direction, and emotional grounding before you speak to anyone.

The exact financial documents you need to gather to save $$$ on legal costs.

Why court is not your only option — and often not the best one.

How to prepare for the separation conversation (even if it feels terrifying).

The emotional tools and supports that will protect your energy and help you move forward with confidence.

If you’re starting this journey, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
👉 Explore the Empowered Separation Program — the step-by-step, self-paced guide that saves you thousands and gets you through this with clarity and confidence.
👉 Share this episode with someone who might need it.
👉 Or visit stacymunzenberger.com to learn more.

Empowered Separation Program: Should I Stay or Go? Get Clarity with Empowered Separation Program

Work With Stacy: Stacy M | Lawyer - Divorce Strategist - Hypnotherapist

#FamilyLaw #SeparationSupport #DivorceMonth #StacyMShow #EmpoweredSeparation #CoParenting #DivorceSupport #RelationshipBreakdown #FamilyLawAdvice

If you think leaving everything to your kids at 18 is a great idea… you might want to sit down for this one. Today we’re diving into testamentary trusts—what they are, why they matter, and how they could save your kids from blowing their inheritance on a jet ski and a bad boyfriend.

In this episode, Stacy breaks down testamentary trusts in a way that actually makes sense. No legal jargon, no overcomplication—just real talk about how this simple tool can protect your kids’ future, keep your hard-earned assets safe, and give you total peace of mind. Whether you're planning your Will or updating it after a separation, this episode will help you understand why a trust might be one of the best decisions you ever make for your family.

What You’ll Learn:

What a testamentary trust actually is (minus the legal mumbo-jumbo)

Why giving an 18-year-old a lump sum is… not ideal

How trusts protect your kids from financial mistakes and messy relationships

The surprising tax benefits most people don’t know about

How to set one up in your Will without overthinking it

Ready to get your estate planning sorted—or updated? Book a call through the website and let’s make sure your Will actually does what you think it does.
If you found this episode helpful, share it with someone who needs to hear it. 

Book a consult: www.stacymunzenberger.com 

#TestamentaryTrust #WillsAndEstates #EstatePlanningAustralia #ProtectYourKidsFuture #StacyMShow #SeparationSupport #LegalTipsAustralia #AquaLegal

What if you couldn’t speak for yourself… who would make your medical decisions? Spoiler alert: it might not be who you think — and it could cause a family war you never saw coming.

In this week’s episode, Stacy breaks down one of the most overlooked legal documents in Australia — the Enduring Guardian. It’s the thing that decides who speaks for you if you lose capacity. Whether it’s from an accident, illness, or just the curveballs life throws, not having one in place can lead to chaos, heartbreak, and sometimes even court battles.

Stacy keeps it real (and a little cheeky) as she shares true-to-life stories, unpacks what happens when you don’t have an Enduring Guardian, and walks you through how to protect yourself and your loved ones — no legal jargon, just straight talk.

You’ll Learn:

What an Enduring Guardian actually is (and how it’s different from a Power of Attorney)

Real-life examples of what can go wrong when you don’t have one

How to choose the right person to make your health and lifestyle decisions

The key steps to appointing an Enduring Guardian in NSW

Why this is extra important if you’re separated, divorced, or thinking about it

If you don’t have an Enduring Guardian, now’s the time to sort it. Visit stacymunzenberger.com  to learn more, book a clarity call, or join the Empowered Separation Program.
And hey — if this episode hit home, share it with a friend who needs to hear it.

Learn more about Enduring Guardians → Aqua Legal & Conveyancing

Join the Empowered Separation Program

Follow Stacy on Instagram → @stacymunzenberger

“An Enduring Guardian is your voice when you can’t speak — and your protection when life blindsides you.”

#EnduringGuardian #EstatePlanningAustralia #NSWLaw #AquaLegal #StacyMShow #EmpoweredSeparation #FuturePlanning #FamilyLaw #LifeDecisions #LegalWellness

Ever feel like you're “behind” because you only run one business? Meanwhile some guy online is screaming about his 9-figure empire and 80 “businesses"... and you're just trying to finish your coffee before school pickup?

Yeah. I'm calling BS.

Today, we're stripping the filters off hustle culture and talking real profit, real focus, and real life — not the Instagram performance version.

If you’ve ever felt less-than because you're not juggling five brands, a personal coaching empire, and a goat farm on the side — breathe. You don’t need multiple businesses, 4 hours of sleep, or a fake “9-figure mindset” to be successful.

In this episode, I’m breaking down the toxic “serial entrepreneur” narrative, why it’s messing with your head (and your bank account), and the truth about what success actually looks like. Spoiler: It’s profit, peace, and being present for your life — not burning out trying to look impressive on LinkedIn.

Let’s talk numbers, sanity, kids, real-life priorities, and why focus beats flex — every single time.

What You’ll Learn

You will walk away with clarity around:

Why “multiple business” culture is mostly marketing hype

The difference between revenue flexing and real profit

How spreading yourself thin kills growth (and joy)

The mindset shift that brings more peace and profit

How to define YOUR version of success — not Instagram’s

Loved this episode? Feeling lighter yet?
✨ Share this with a friend who needs a reality check.
✨ Book a clarity call or join Empowered Separation if you’re navigating breakup chaos alongside life and business.
✨ Visit www.stacymunzenberger.com  for programs, resources & support.

You don’t need “seven streams of income.”
You need clarity, focus, and a life you actually enjoy.

Work With Stacy: www.stacymunzenberger.com

Follow on socials: @stacymunzenberger

#TheStacyMShow #EntrepreneurTruths #AntiHustleCulture #BusinessReality #SmallBusinessLife #ProfitOverRevenue #WomenInBusiness #RealBusinessTalk #FocusOverHustle  

What if your relationship isn’t actually over — it’s just asking for something different?
In this powerful chat, Stacy sits down with Sammi Jaeger, relationship coach and podcast host, to talk about what really happens before couples reach the breaking point. They unpack why people drift apart, what emotional disconnection actually means, and how to bring back curiosity, connection, and clarity — even when things feel messy.

If you’ve ever thought, “Maybe it’s too late…” — this episode might just change your mind.

You’ll learn:

Why emotional disconnection doesn’t always mean the end.

The subtle signs your relationship is asking for attention (not an ending).

How to have honest conversations that don’t turn into arguments.

What to do when love feels one-sided — and how to find your way back.

Simple mindset shifts that can rebuild intimacy and trust.

💬 Stacy says:

“Sometimes it’s not about walking away — it’s about walking differently together.”

If this episode hit home, share it with someone who needs a little reminder that it’s not over yet. And if you’re standing at that crossroads yourself, book a clarity call with Stacy — because you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Learn more about The Empowered Separation Program: www.stacymunzenberger.com/empowered-separation 

Book a free clarity call with Stacy: www.stacymunzenberger.com/contact 

 About Sammi:

Sammi Jaeger is an Entrepreneur, Coach, Speaker, Author in the making and Co-Host of The Date Forever Podcast. After Sammi’s life hit a crossroad, she hit the wall, picked herself up again and began leaning into creating and living her own Fuelled Up Life. This time by design.

Sammi is deeply passionate about how our relationships impact the quality of our lives. She is an advocate for the UN Global Goals and knows that we all have a role to play in creating a better world.

Connect with Sammi:

Happy Hour Agenda : https://www.sammijaeger.com/happyhour
Annual Game Plan : https://www.sammijaeger.com/agp
Tank Check : https://sammijaeger.com/tankcheck
Monthly Goals Workshop : https://www.sammijaeger.com/reflect 
Date Forever Podcast : https://www.sammijaeger.com/podcast 

#TheStacyMShow #RelationshipAdvice #SeparationSupport #LoveAndCommunication #RelationshipGoals #MarriageHelp #EmotionalConnection #SammiJaeger

Let’s be honest — family law isn’t just about legal jargon and paperwork. It’s emotional. It’s messy. And some days, it feels like your nervous system has clocked in for a full-time job.

If you’ve ever gone from “I’ve got this” to crying over coffee after receiving a lawyer’s email, then this one’s for you. In this episode, I’m stripping back the BS and talking about the real emotional rollercoaster that comes with separation, property settlement, and parenting matters — and how to ride the wave without losing yourself in the storm.

How to name and acknowledge your emotions (without judging yourself for them).

Simple nervous system resets you can do right now — no marathon required.

Why isolating yourself makes it harder (and how to actually get support).

The power of remembering that emotions are temporary — but your decisions are lasting.

How to stay grounded when the legal process feels overwhelming.

💻 Visit my website: www.stacymunzenberger.com 

📅 Book a clarity call: [Insert Booking Link]

📩 Share this episode with a friend who needs a reminder that what they’re feeling is valid.

If this episode hit home, do me a favour — hit subscribe, share it with someone going through a tough season, or book a call if you need a little extra support. You are absolutely not in this alone.

“You are not your anger. You are not your fear. You’re just experiencing them — and that means you’re human.”

#FamilyLaw #SeparationSupport #EmotionalWellbeing #StacyMShow #LegalWithoutTheBS #SeparationJourney #RealTalk