In this episode, the hosts dive deep into the topic of gaslighting—what it means, how it manifests in relationships, and the impact it has on self-perception and emotional health.
Spoiler alert: if you've ever felt like you're losing your mind while someone insists you're "too sensitive," this one's for you. Through personal stories, book recommendations, and the kind of candid conversation your therapist would approve of, they unpack the confusion around the term, its origins, and how to recognize and respond to gaslighting without questioning whether you're overreacting. (You're not.)
Key Topics in this episode:
~ Defining gaslighting and its origins (from the 1938 play and subsequent films—because yes, emotional manipulation is vintage)
~ Personal experiences with gaslighting in relationships, family, and friendships (aka the greatest hits of "Did that really just happen?")
~ The difference between healthy disagreement and gaslighting (hint: one involves respect, the other involves you Googling "Am I insane?" at 2 AM)
~ Signs you might be experiencing gaslighting (e.g., doubting your reality, over-explaining why you're upset about something obviously upsetting, seeking validation from your houseplants)
~ The connection between gaslighting and narcissistic abuse (they're like toxic best friends)
~ The importance of trusting your intuition and seeking support (Your gut is smarter than you think. Listen to it)
~ Strategies for responding to gaslighting and setting boundaries (because "I'm not doing this anymore" is a complete sentence)
~ The role of self-care and community in healing (turns out talking to people who don't make you feel bonkers is therapeutic...who knew?)
If you resonate with any of the stories or signs discussed, know that you're not alone. Trust your intuition, seek support, and remember: your reality is valid. Even if someone keeps insisting it isn't. Especially then, actually.
NOTE: We share resources that may be helpful on your journey, they are affiliate links that help us cover the costs of producing this podcast. You don’t pay more, but we receive a tiny commission AND you’re supporting our work. The products we advertise are those we believe in.
#gaslighting #narcissist #lifecoachesunfiltered #personaldevelopment #lifecoaching #narcissisticabuse
Book recommendation: "It's Not You: : Identifying and Healing from Narcissistic People" by Dr. Ramani Durvasula (on healing from narcissistic abuse)
***** Connect with the Coaches *****

Michelle Hibbert

Doree O’Neal

Desiree Doucet

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