On this episode, we dive into having standards within friendship and what that looks like. We build confidence and self reliance with strong boundaries, we learn to weed out friendships that are not for us, to make space for friendships that are. How do we build standards? How to we make better more genuine connections?

Nick and I have been nominated for America's Favorite Couple, Please Vote here: https://americasfavcouple.org/2025/nick-and-sabrina-2

Instagram: @sabrina_Kharoubii

Tiktok: @the3rdside

In this episode, Sabrina and Kelly Conrad delve into the complexities of covert narcissism, exploring its subtle manipulations and the emotional turmoil it causes. They share personal experiences, discuss the signs of narcissistic behavior, and emphasize the importance of understanding these dynamics for healing. The conversation highlights the need for education on narcissistic abuse and the journey towards recovery, underscoring the significance of empathy and healthy relationships.

Tiktok: @tinkerkellita

Instagram: @tinkerkelly

In this episode, Sabrina explores the concept of love bombing in friendships, a manipulation tactic that can lead to emotional abuse. She discusses the signs of love bombing, the cycle it creates, and how it can lead to isolation and control. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing genuine vulnerability versus manipulative behavior, and the emotional impact of such relationships. In this conversation, Sabrina delves into the complexities of toxic relationships, particularly focusing on the dynamics of power, manipulation, and emotional abuse. She discusses the withdrawal cycle that often occurs in these relationships, where one party exerts control over the other, leading to feelings of confusion and self-doubt. Sabrina also highlights the smear campaigns that can arise from toxic individuals, resulting in the loss of friendships and support systems. In contrast, she emphasizes the characteristics of healthy friendships, which are built on mutual respect, communication, and understanding. The conversation concludes with insights on conflict resolution and the importance of adult skills in maintaining healthy relationships.

Tiktok: @the3rdside

Instagram: @the3rdside_

In this episode, I share my engagement story and talk about how important friendships are—especially during big life events like weddings. I open up about my journey through toxic relationships, the joy of finding true love with Nick, and the challenges of planning a wedding while trying to stay positive. I also talk about why it’s so important to have supportive friends around you and how a positive mindset can make all the difference when navigating life’s ups and downs.

Special Guest Laura Richards, a bestselling author of Married to a Nice Guy, a powerful book that explores covert narcissism, emotional abuse, and the hidden struggles of being in a toxic relationship that appears perfect on the surface.

In this episode, Sabrina and Laura Richards dive into the complexities of navigating relationships with narcissists, both in friendships and romantic partnerships. They share personal experiences of identifying manipulative behaviors, setting boundaries, and dealing with the invalidation that often comes after leaving toxic situations. The discussion highlights the importance of self-awareness, personal growth, and finding validation outside of toxic relationships. They also touch on the societal pressures that keep people stuck in unhealthy dynamics and emphasize the need for open conversations and awareness to help others recognize emotional abuse. The episode closes with an uplifting message about healing, setting boundaries, and embracing one's true self without guilt.

Laura Richards Instagram: @thatswhereimatpodcast

In this episode, I share my personal journey of healing after a detrimental friendship breakup. I open up about my experiences with emotional abuse and covert narcissism, reflecting on the toxic dynamics that shaped my friendship. Through storytelling, I highlight the importance of recognizing red flags, the impact of trauma bonding, and the lessons I’ve learned about self-worth and forgiveness.

I also dive into my experiences navigating complex friendships, personal trauma, and the challenges of toxic relationships. I reflect on my time in graduate school, the support I received from friends during difficult moments, and my eventual move to New York City, where I sought new beginnings and self-discovery. This conversation sheds light on the importance of identifying unhealthy dynamics in relationships and the power of friendship and support systems in overcoming adversity.

I share my struggles with dating, the impact of gaslighting from a close friend, and the emotional turmoil that followed. I recount my first date with Nate, the confusion caused by my friend’s reactions, and the painful realization of manipulation and betrayal. This discussion highlights the significance of recognizing healthy relationships and understanding the effects of emotional abuse.

I also talk about my tumultuous experience with a manipulative friend who undermined my relationship and mental well-being. My story unfolds through moments of betrayal, emotional turmoil, and my struggle to trust my own intuition amidst the chaos. I explore the complexities of friendship, the impact of emotional abuse, and the importance of self-awareness and intuition in navigating toxic relationships.

Finally, I share my harrowing experience of navigating a toxic friendship and living situation. I discuss the emotional toll of covert narcissistic abuse, the struggle to maintain my independence, and the importance of setting boundaries. Ending a long-term friendship was incredibly challenging, but through my healing process, I found strength, self-empowerment, and resilience. By sharing my story, I hope to help others recognize their own strength and find their path to healing.

In this episode, I share my personal journey of healing after a detrimental friendship breakup. I open up about my experiences with emotional abuse and covert narcissism, reflecting on the toxic dynamics that shaped my friendship. Through storytelling, I highlight the importance of recognizing red flags, the impact of trauma bonding, and the lessons I’ve learned about self-worth and forgiveness.

I also dive into my experiences navigating complex friendships, personal trauma, and the challenges of toxic relationships. I reflect on my time in graduate school, the support I received from friends during difficult moments, and my eventual move to New York City, where I sought new beginnings and self-discovery. This conversation sheds light on the importance of identifying unhealthy dynamics in relationships and the power of friendship and support systems in overcoming adversity.

I share my struggles with dating, the impact of gaslighting from a close friend, and the emotional turmoil that followed. I recount my first date with Nate, the confusion caused by my friend’s reactions, and the painful realization of manipulation and betrayal. This discussion highlights the significance of recognizing healthy relationships and understanding the effects of emotional abuse.

I also talk about my tumultuous experience with a manipulative friend who undermined my relationship and mental well-being. My story unfolds through moments of betrayal, emotional turmoil, and my struggle to trust my own intuition amidst the chaos. I explore the complexities of friendship, the impact of emotional abuse, and the importance of self-awareness and intuition in navigating toxic relationships.

Finally, I share my harrowing experience of navigating a toxic friendship and living situation. I discuss the emotional toll of covert narcissistic abuse, the struggle to maintain my independence, and the importance of setting boundaries. Ending a long-term friendship was incredibly challenging, but through my healing process, I found strength, self-empowerment, and resilience. By sharing my story, I hope to help others recognize their own strength and find their path to healing.

In this episode, I share my personal journey of healing after a detrimental friendship breakup. I open up about my experiences with emotional abuse and covert narcissism, reflecting on the toxic dynamics that shaped my friendship. Through storytelling, I highlight the importance of recognizing red flags, the impact of trauma bonding, and the lessons I’ve learned about self-worth and forgiveness.

I also dive into my experiences navigating complex friendships, personal trauma, and the challenges of toxic relationships. I reflect on my time in graduate school, the support I received from friends during difficult moments, and my eventual move to New York City, where I sought new beginnings and self-discovery. This conversation sheds light on the importance of identifying unhealthy dynamics in relationships and the power of friendship and support systems in overcoming adversity.

I share my struggles with dating, the impact of gaslighting from a close friend, and the emotional turmoil that followed. I recount my first date with Nate, the confusion caused by my friend’s reactions, and the painful realization of manipulation and betrayal. This discussion highlights the significance of recognizing healthy relationships and understanding the effects of emotional abuse.

I also talk about my tumultuous experience with a manipulative friend who undermined my relationship and mental well-being. My story unfolds through moments of betrayal, emotional turmoil, and my struggle to trust my own intuition amidst the chaos. I explore the complexities of friendship, the impact of emotional abuse, and the importance of self-awareness and intuition in navigating toxic relationships.

Finally, I share my harrowing experience of navigating a toxic friendship and living situation. I discuss the emotional toll of covert narcissistic abuse, the struggle to maintain my independence, and the importance of setting boundaries. Ending a long-term friendship was incredibly challenging, but through my healing process, I found strength, self-empowerment, and resilience. By sharing my story, I hope to help others recognize their own strength and find their path to healing.

In the Season 2 premiere of We Used to Be Best Friends, we dive into the transformative journey of healing after a toxic friendship. Together, we reflect on the emotional challenges of letting go, the lessons we’ve learned from these painful experiences, and the ways we can reclaim our sense of self. This episode explores how to identify unhealthy dynamics, break free from harmful patterns, and set boundaries to manifest healthier, more supportive friendships. As we share our hopes for 2025, we remind ourselves to embrace our inner diamonds, shine bright, and create the friendships we truly deserve.

In this episode of We Used to Be Best Friends, we dive into a heartbreaking story submission about a nine-year friendship that fell apart. Lack of communication, accountability and the silent treatment will lead to the destruction of a long-time friendship. We explore how choosing silence over open communication can erode even the closest friendships, leaving people hurt and confused. This episode unpacks the importance of expressing feelings honestly, navigating tough conversations, and recognizing when it’s time to let go for the sake of your own well-being.

If you'd like to submit your own friendship breakup story, please email: [email protected]

Please include in your email that you grant me the permission to share your story on the podcast.

Disclaimer: This episode contains a story submission that mentions suicide, manipulation, and gaslighting, which may be triggering for some listeners. If these topics might bother you, please feel free to skip this episode or come back to it when you feel ready. Take care of yourself first.