Unlock the mysteries of narcissistic abuse and the entanglement of toxic relationships with the insightful California-based therapist Rebecca Ishida. Together, we dissect the art of deception, specifically focusing on the subtle yet destructive act of lying by omission and its prevalence in those living double lives. As we unravel our personal encounters with ex-partners and the deceptive calm before the storm, Rebecca's recent EMDR training and upcoming certification in sex therapy bring an enhanced perspective to our heart-to-heart.

Dive into the heart of cultural influences on our perception of love, where we scrutinize the romanticization of toxicity in films from "When Harry Met Sally" to "Deceived." Our conversation challenges the narratives we've been fed, urging a call to action for educating young minds on differentiating healthy bonds from manipulative traps. Amidst sharing anecdotes about our own romantic journeys, we emphasize the importance of identifying red flags and the deceptive charm that often precedes a toxic storm.

As the dialogue progresses, we confront the fallacy that love can reform a narcissist, a notion many find hard to shake. Lisa opens up about her own trials of dating under the shadow of covert narcissism, while Rebecca's expertise helps us peel back the layers of this complex issue. We conclude with the promise of continued connection beyond state lines through Rebecca's coaching abilities and the anticipation of future discussions on the profound effects cults have on families, promising to bring forth more relatable moments and invaluable insights for our listeners.