That's Where I'm At

Welcome to "That's Where I'm At" with your host, Laura Richards! Join Laura Richards, a survivor of narcissistic abuse with 33 years experience, as she guides you through the journey of identifying, healing from, and thriving after emotional and psychological abuse. With a mission to raise awareness, foster emotional recovery, and empower you to love yourself, Laura brings honesty, compassion, and a touch of humor to every episode. Dive into deep, meaningful conversations, tackle tough topics, and uncover moments of hope and healing. Our supportive community is here for you, offering insights, support, and a shared path to recovery and empowerment. Subscribe now and be part of a transformative journey that’s messy, real, and truly inspiring!

EP 78: Healing Hidden Trauma and Finding Your Voice with Christina L. Woods 04/22/2026

EP 78: Healing Hidden Trauma and Finding Your Voice with Christina L. Woods In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura speaks with Christina L. Woods, an internationally recognized Clinical Hypnotherapist, Rapid Transformational Therapist®, Certified High Performance Coach, Reiki Master, author, and founder of Wise Woods Hypnotherapy, Inc. Christina helps women unlock their worth, release limiting beliefs, and align with their authentic selves through her signature Wise Woods Method™, which blends hypnotherapy, coaching, and energy healing. Christina shares her powerful personal journey from a 30-year corporate career to discovering hypnotherapy after her marriage collapsed and her health declined. Drawing from both her professional background and lived experience, she opens up about buried childhood trauma, including sexual abuse she didn’t acknowledge until age 50, and how it shaped patterns of people-pleasing, overachievement, and self-sabotage. Together, Laura and Christina explore the power of subconscious beliefs, the role of various healing modalities, and the importance of self-compassion, boundaries, and breaking shame. This episode is a deeply honest and transformative conversation about reclaiming your identity, trusting your inner wisdom, and creating a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and fully your own. Key Topics & Timestamps Guest Introduction & Overview (00:01:33) Laura introduces Christina Woods, her background, and previews the conversation about childhood trauma and healing. Christina’s Career Shift & Hypnotherapy Introduction (00:03:17) Christina shares her transition from corporate life to healing work and initial misconceptions about hypnotherapy. Childhood Patterns & Overachievement (00:04:10) Christina discusses how childhood survival strategies led to people-pleasing, overachievement, and stress in adulthood. Therapy & Hypnotherapy Experience (00:05:06) Christina describes her journey into therapy, discovering hypnotherapy, and how it quickly revealed and rewired limiting beliefs. How Beliefs Shape Reality (00:07:04) Explains how subconscious beliefs drive behavior and how hypnotherapy helps rewire them for positive change. Challenging Internal Narratives (00:08:02) Laura and Christina discuss questioning negative self-talk and the importance of forming new, positive neural pathways. Learning, Failing, and Growth (00:11:13) They talk about the value of trying new things, embracing failure, and how the brain grows through new experiences. Impact of Narcissistic Relationships (00:12:27) Laura shares how being with a narcissist stifled her ability to try and fail, leading to self-silencing. Seeking Evidence for Beliefs (00:13:06) Christina explains how people seek evidence to support their strongest beliefs, even if those beliefs are negative or untrue. Paradigm Shifts & Changing Self-Dialogue (00:14:21) Discussion on how changing internal dialogue can shift reality and self-perception. Questioning Thoughts & Ownership (00:15:14) Laura emphasizes that not all thoughts are true and the importance of identifying whose voice is influencing self-perception. Unlearning Old Patterns After Divorce (00:19:26) Laura reflects on the process of unlearning automatic behaviors and discovering her authentic self post-divorce. Making New Thoughts Familiar (00:20:26) Christina explains the brain’s resistance to change and the need to make new, positive thoughts familiar through repetition. Childhood Trauma’s Impact on Adulthood (00:22:29) Christina shares how buried childhood sexual abuse shaped her self-worth, relationships, and coping mechanisms. The Relief of Facing Trauma (00:27:10) Christina describes the relief and self-compassion that came from acknowledging and processing her trauma. Breaking Shame Through Community (00:30:18) Laura discusses how sharing stories and connecting with others helps break the isolation of shame. Universal Patterns of People-Pleasing (00:32:14) They discuss how many women develop people-pleasing tendencies due to childhood roles and expectations. Subconscious Mind & Hypnotherapy (00:32:53) Christina explains the power of the subconscious mind and how hypnotherapy accesses and rewires it. Healing Modalities After Divorce (00:34:43) Christina lists the various healing methods she used post-divorce, including EMDR, therapy, and energy healing. Journaling as a Healing Tool (00:37:44) Both discuss the power of journaling for processing emotions, tracking growth, and expressing anger safely. Boundaries, Anger, and Self-Abandonment (00:41:40) They explore how anger signals unmet needs, the importance of boundaries, and the tendency to self-abandon. Closing Encouragement & Resources (00:44:55) Christina offers final encouragement that change is possible, and Laura shares where listeners can find Christina and support the podcast. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Christina, ‘I have learned things about myself that I believed to be true that aren't even true—beliefs like I'm not good enough and I'm bad. And I realize those beliefs that aren't true literally have carved the way I've led my life.’ Christina, ‘I never felt enough. I always felt less than other people. And so how it influenced my life was seeking validation outside of me. Overachieving. Overdoing. Over giving.’ Christina, ‘When you hide shame and you hide guilt, it really just created a Christina version of me that was overcompensating to hide shame and guilt.’ Christina, ‘When you have compassion for yourself, you allow yourself to love yourself and be patient and kind and understanding.’ Christina, ‘So much of this process is about not abandoning yourself.’ RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: FOLLOW CHRISTINA: WEBSITE: INSTAGRAM: FACEBOOK: LINKEDIN: Free Hypnosis Audio “The beliefs you learned to survive aren’t the ones you have to live by—healing begins when you choose a new story.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/40966500

EP 77: Shattering Silence with Michelle Jewsbury: How One Woman’s Story Became a Global Movement for Survivors 04/15/2026

EP 77: Shattering Silence with Michelle Jewsbury: How One Woman’s Story Became a Global Movement for Survivors In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura interviews Michelle Jewsbury, founder and CEO of Unsilenced Voices, internationally recognized speaker, coach, and survivor of domestic abuse. Michelle is known for helping individuals transform their personal stories into powerful narratives, using her own journey of breaking the cycle of abuse to inspire others to create impact and purpose from their pain. Michelle shares her harrowing experience with a violent, controlling partner, detailing the early red flags, escalating abuse, and her eventual escape. She opens up about how she transformed her trauma into advocacy through writing, performing a solo play, and launching global programs that support survivors in West Africa. As the driving force behind Unsilenced Voices, Michelle now works with individuals, entrepreneurs, and organizations to harness the power of storytelling for healing and growth. Throughout the conversation, Michelle emphasizes the importance of speaking out, seeking support, and finding community. This episode delivers a powerful message of hope, resilience, and empowerment for survivors ready to reclaim their voice and rewrite their story. Key Topics & Timestamps Michelle’s Background & Abusive Relationship (00:03:31) Michelle shares her upbringing, move to Hollywood, and meeting her abusive partner. Early Red Flags & Control (00:04:49) Michelle describes early signs of control and manipulation in her relationship. Hope After Abuse & Unlearning Patterns (00:06:08) Michelle and Laura discuss hope for healthy relationships and the need to unlearn toxic patterns. First Incident of Physical Violence (00:07:27) Michelle recounts the first act of physical violence and her initial reaction. Documenting Her Story & Founding UnSilenced Voices (00:07:58) Michelle explains how documenting her experience led to a play, memoir, and founding her nonprofit. Suing Her Abuser & Regaining Her Voice (00:08:54) Michelle details suing her abuser for financial and emotional damages and the empowerment it brought. The Importance of Speaking Out (00:10:12) Laura and Michelle discuss the stigma of talking about abuse and the importance of breaking silence. Leaving an Abusive Relationship (00:11:34) Both share the difficulty and commonality of multiple attempts to leave abusive partners. Escalation of Abuse & Final Break (00:12:24) Michelle describes escalating violence, infidelity, and what finally gave her the strength to leave. Therapy & Finding Her Voice (00:14:24) Laura and Michelle discuss therapy’s role in healing and reclaiming self-worth. Life After Abuse & Small Wins (00:16:10) They reflect on the freedom and small victories experienced after leaving abuse. Recognizing Emotional Abuse (00:19:03) Laura discusses realizing emotional abuse through journaling and family patterns. Who Michelle Helps & Her Programs (00:19:59) Michelle explains her nonprofit and for-profit work, including programs in Sierra Leone and coaching survivors. Why Sierra Leone? (00:24:10) Michelle shares how she was called to work in Africa and the origins of her nonprofit’s international focus. The Power of Sharing Your Story (00:26:46) Michelle encourages listeners to share their stories to help others and create change. Healing Modalities & Performing Her Story (00:28:30) Michelle describes how writing, performing, and speaking publicly contributed to her healing. Dealing with Naysayers & Victim Blaming (00:30:33) They discuss negative reactions, victim blaming, and the importance of supportive communities. Support Systems & Cultural Barriers (00:32:41) Michelle talks about losing friends during abuse, the need for supportive people, and cultural challenges in addressing abuse. Encouragement & Final Advice (00:37:03) Michelle and Laura offer encouragement to keep going, referencing “just keep swimming” from Finding Nemo. Powerful Quotes from the Episode 'Michelle, 'I started to really accept that this happened, but it doesn't have to define me.' 'Michelle, 'What I did get from this is my voice back. So when I got my voice back after four years of a lawsuit, it made me feel empowered that I could accomplish all of this.' 'Michelle, 'When you’re out of those situations, the prosperity that you actually get, not just financially but for your soul, is incredible.' 'Michelle, 'Our stories are not just for us. Our stories are to help other people.' 'Michelle, 'If you feel trapped, if you are stuck, if you’ve escaped and you’re still in this turmoil of why didn’t it work, I want you to know to just keep swimming, keep putting one foot in front of the other. Don’t give up. Do not give up because it will get better, I promise you that.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: FOLLOW MICHELLE: WEBSITE: “Silence protects the pain—your voice creates change.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/40879700

EP 76: Building Your Emotional Home with Alyssa Scarano 04/08/2026

EP 76: Building Your Emotional Home with Alyssa Scarano In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura speaks with Alyssa Scarano, LPC, NCC, therapist and Founder and Clinical Director of The Collective Therapy & Wellness. Known for her empathetic and compassionate approach, Alyssa views her work as a profound privilege—supporting clients through their most vulnerable experiences while helping them heal from childhood trauma, break generational patterns, and build meaningful, authentic relationships rooted in self-compassion. Alyssa shares how personal loss in her twenties led her to pursue therapy and ultimately specialize in generational trauma and family dynamics. Together, she and Laura explore how childhood emotional suppression shapes adult behavior, the importance of inner child work, and how self-love becomes the foundation for healthy boundaries. Using a powerful “home” metaphor, Alyssa illustrates boundary-setting in a relatable way and encourages listeners to embrace discomfort as a necessary part of healing. She also offers a free 21-day email series designed to help build self-worth. Key Topics & Timestamps Episode Overview & Guest Introduction (00:01:29) Laura previews the conversation with Alyssa about generational patterns, boundaries, and self-love. Alyssa’s Healing Journey (00:02:58) Alyssa shares her personal background, family dynamics, and how therapy empowered her. Family Silence and Childhood Trauma (00:03:26) Discussion about growing up in families that suppress emotions and the impact on children. Internalizing Trauma as a Child (00:06:19) Exploring how children internalize family trauma and blame themselves. Alyssa’s Path to Therapy Work (00:07:16) Alyssa describes her transition from personal healing to becoming a family therapist. Inner Child Work Explained (00:09:26) Alyssa explains inner child work, early social learning, and how childhood beliefs shape adulthood. Boundaries and Self-Love Connection (00:11:46) Laura and Alyssa discuss how boundaries are rooted in self-love and healing childhood wounds. Survival Mode Parenting & Boundaries (00:13:06) Exploring how generational survival mode affects parenting and boundary-setting. External vs. Internal Boundaries (00:14:10) Alyssa explains the difference between visible boundaries and internal boundaries around self-worth. Impact of Narcissistic Abuse and Healing (00:15:04) Laura shares her experience with narcissistic abuse and the process of unraveling negative self-beliefs. How Trauma Gets Stuck (00:16:32) Alyssa explains trauma as a combination of vulnerability, acute events, and lack of support. Importance of Emotional Support (00:17:51) Discussion on how lack of support after trauma makes healing harder and the need for safe spaces. Therapy Process: Genogram & Family Mapping (00:18:58) Alyssa describes her intake process using genograms to map family patterns and roles. Negative Side of Healing & Family Reactions (00:20:24) Laura discusses how healing can disrupt family dynamics and lead to uncomfortable reactions. Discomfort and Growth in Healing (00:21:59) Alyssa explains why discomfort is part of growth and why families may resist change. Embracing All Emotions (00:23:11) Alyssa emphasizes the importance of feeling all emotions, including anger, for empowerment and boundary-setting. Therapy as a Safe Space (00:26:06) Laura and Alyssa discuss the value of therapy as a safe, validating environment for self-expression. Therapist’s Emotional Labor (00:28:30) Alyssa reflects on the emotional demands of being a therapist and the risk of vicarious trauma. Healthy Relationships and Community (00:30:11) Laura shares how healing attracts healthier relationships and changes her social circle. Tips for Listeners: Embracing Discomfort & Self-Compassion (00:30:53) Alyssa offers advice on tolerating discomfort, managing expectations, and giving oneself grace during healing. Boundaries Metaphor: Home as Self (00:33:13) Alyssa introduces a metaphor comparing boundaries to managing your home and deciding who gets access. Self-Love as the Foundation (00:37:34) Alyssa and Laura discuss how self-love is the foundation for breaking patterns and setting boundaries. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Alyssa, “I did my own healing, went to therapy, and found the words and the space to explore what I was feeling, and that was so empowering for me because it changed my life.” Alyssa, “You're always kind of working with that inner child that was not seen and not validated, and it's powerful to offer someone an experience they never had.” Alyssa, “We have the internal boundary of being able to separate someone else's responses from how you view yourself and your own self-worth—it's like putting up a veil and not letting someone else's behavior pierce it.” Alyssa, “We belong to ourselves long before we belong to anyone else.” Alyssa, “The reason why those patterns and behaviors formed in the first place was out of a desire for connection and love, so it begins with deciding you are worthy of love—you always were.” RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: FOLLOW ALYSSA: WEBSITE: FACEBOOK: INSTAGRAM: “Healing begins the moment you realize you are worthy of the love, safety, and voice you were once denied.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/40766620

EP 75: Breaking the Trauma Bond: Taking Back Your Power 04/01/2026

EP 75: Breaking the Trauma Bond: Taking Back Your Power In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura shares her personal journey of healing after divorcing a narcissist. She explains the psychological and chemical roots of trauma bonding, the confusing emotions survivors face, and the challenges of breaking free. Laura offers practical steps for recovery, including going no contact, journaling, rebuilding identity, seeking support, and trauma-informed therapy. She emphasizes self-compassion and patience, reassuring listeners that healing is possible and encouraging them to reclaim their lives. Laura closes by inviting listeners to join her supportive community and reminding them they are not alone in their recovery. Key Topics & Timestamps Purpose of the Podcast & Sharing Stories (00:00:31) Emphasizes the importance of sharing difficult stories for collective healing, especially for women. Trigger Warning (00:01:13) Brief warning about potentially triggering content in the episode. Understanding Trauma Bonding (00:01:21) Laura describes her conflicting feelings after leaving her marriage and introduces the concept of trauma bonding. Personal Experience with Trauma Bond (00:02:31) Shares her emotional struggle post-divorce and the confusion of loving and hating her abuser. Intermittent Reinforcement & Abuse Dynamics (00:03:30) Explains how abusers use intermittent reinforcement to keep victims attached and feeling small. Shame and Staying Too Long (00:05:59) Discusses the shame survivors feel for staying and the psychological manipulation that keeps them in abusive relationships. Chemical Basis of Trauma Bond (00:06:59) Explains the brain chemistry behind trauma bonds and the need to rebuild positive chemicals after leaving. The Good Memory Trap (00:08:14) Warns against idealizing isolated good moments in abusive relationships and describes ongoing hypervigilance. Addiction to Hope & Beginning Healing (00:09:23) Clarifies that survivors are addicted to hope, not the abuser, and introduces the first healing steps. No Contact Rule (00:10:41) Stresses the importance of going no contact to break the trauma bond and protect oneself from manipulation. Practical Steps for No Contact (00:11:41) Shares her personal approach to no contact, including blocking on social media and handling mutual friends. No Contact in Co-Parenting & Boundaries (00:12:46) Advises on maintaining boundaries and low contact when full no contact isn’t possible, especially with children. No Contact is Survival, Not Cruelty (00:13:49) Explains why staying friends with a narcissist is dangerous and reinforces that no contact is about survival. Journaling for Clarity (00:14:59) Recommends journaling to document abuse, validate experiences, and avoid romanticizing the past. Reconnecting with Identity & Dreams (00:16:02) Encourages rediscovering passions and rebuilding identity lost during the abusive relationship. Building a Support System (00:18:09) Highlights the importance of finding supportive communities and professionals for healing. Trauma-Informed Therapy & Somatic Healing (00:19:19) Advocates for trauma-informed therapy and somatic practices to heal both mind and body. Self-Compassion & Patience in Healing (00:20:44) Emphasizes self-kindness, patience, and the gradual nature of recovery from abuse. Breaking the Inner Voice of the Narcissist (00:22:05) Describes the process of reclaiming one’s own thoughts and voice after leaving abuse. Encouragement & Final Thoughts (00:23:10) Offers reassurance about the healing journey, normalizes setbacks, and encourages persistence. Powerful Quotes from the Episode ‘I also didn't know until I started to understand some things that you can actually have two opposing thoughts. You can actually hate somebody and love somebody at the same time.’ ‘So remember that you weren't addicted to him. You were addicted to the hope of the person he pretended to be.’ ‘No contact is not cruelty. It is survival.’ ‘You hating him and missing him at the same time does not make you weak. It makes you human.’ ‘The confusion is not a sign that you made a mistake leaving. It's a sign of how deep the bond went.’ RESOURCES: GRAB THE TRAUMA BOND ACTION GUIDE: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: “You weren’t addicted to the person—you were holding on to the hope. Healing begins when you choose yourself over that illusion.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/40626650

EP 74: Healing and Rebuilding Your Life After Narcissistic Abuse with Coach NiaRenee 03/25/2026

EP 74: Healing and Rebuilding Your Life After Narcissistic Abuse with Coach NiaRenee In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura sits down with Coach NiaRenee, a certified narcissistic abuse recovery coach, author, and advocate dedicated to helping survivors rebuild their lives after emotional and psychological abuse. As the founder of How to Love a Battered Woman LLC and creator of the Battered Hearts Rising methodology, NiaRenee combines professional expertise with lived experience to guide survivors through deep healing, self-reconnection, and the restoration of self-trust after toxic relationships. Known as the Empathy Powerhouse, NiaRenee is passionate about amplifying the voices of survivors and creating spaces where healing, clarity, and empowerment are possible. Her work goes beyond leaving abusive dynamics—she helps individuals untangle trauma bonds, strengthen boundaries, and rebuild their identity so they can form relationships rooted in safety, respect, and emotional security. In this powerful conversation, NiaRenee shares her journey of surviving both childhood and adult abuse, and how those experiences shaped her mission today. She and Laura explore the challenges of recognizing abuse, breaking trauma bonds, and unlearning harmful patterns influenced by societal and media narratives. Together, they emphasize the importance of self-awareness, community, and support in the healing process. This episode offers hope, practical tools, and encouragement for anyone on the path to reclaiming their voice, identity, and power. Key Topics & Timestamps Coach NiaRenee's Background & Advocacy (00:02:20) NiaRenee discusses her advocacy work, credentials, and motivation for helping survivors. Personal Journey into Coaching (00:03:42) NiaRenee shares how her personal experiences with abuse led her to coaching and developing her methodology. Rebuilding Self-Relationship After Abuse (00:05:44) Discussion on the importance of repairing the relationship with oneself after abusive relationships. Leaving the Last Abusive Relationship (00:06:36) NiaRenee talks about leaving her last abusive relationship in 2019 and recognizing unhealthy patterns. Childhood Abuse & Family Dynamics (00:07:02) NiaRenee reveals her childhood sexual abuse and growing up with a narcissistic mother, and how it shaped her. Normalization & Glamourization of Abuse in Media (00:11:40) They discuss how media normalizes and glamorizes domestic violence, making it harder to recognize abuse. Love Bombing & Societal Conditioning (00:13:15) Exploration of love bombing, societal messages about romance, and the impact on boundaries. Learning Healthy Love & Setting Boundaries (00:15:01) NiaRenee describes learning what healthy love looks like through friendships and setting new standards. Unlearning Patterns & Trauma Bonding (00:16:38) The process of unlearning old patterns, trauma bonding, and the importance of self-awareness. Losing Friendships During Healing (00:19:32) NiaRenee and Laura discuss losing friendships that mirrored abusive patterns during their healing journeys. Individual Healing Journeys & Coping Strategies (00:22:04) They share personal healing methods, emphasizing that everyone’s journey is unique. Finding and Using Your Voice (00:24:05) Both discuss how speaking out, crying, and sharing their stories helped reclaim their voices. Starting Social Media Advocacy (00:25:03) NiaRenee explains how she began sharing her story on TikTok and the impact of her skits. Balancing Content Creation with Heavy Topics (00:27:04) Challenges of creating content and supporting others during overwhelming world events. Coping with Triggers from Current Events (00:28:25) NiaRenee shares how she manages triggers from the Epstein files and the importance of self-care. Supporting Survivors & Using Your Platform (00:32:21) The importance of amplifying survivor voices and using platforms for advocacy. Calling Out Societal & Political Narcissistic Abuse (00:34:44) Discussion on recognizing narcissistic abuse in political and societal contexts. Recognizing Psychological Abuse (00:37:09) Highlighting the prevalence of psychological abuse and its portrayal in media. Upcoming Movie “My Narcissist” (00:37:41) NiaRenee talks about her role in the upcoming movie that depicts psychological and emotional abuse. Breaking the Cycle & Family Healing (00:43:03) Laura and NiaRenee discuss breaking generational cycles, family healing, and accountability. Powerful Quotes from the Episode NiaRenee, ‘I just want to show other people that there is life after abuse.’ NiaRenee, ’Those relationships felt familiar, so I thought I was supposed to stay in them because that's just how relationships are.’ NiaRenee, ‘I think it's deeper than us loving ourselves, because how do we love ourselves if we've never been shown how to be properly loved?’ NiaRenee, ‘The more you're self-aware, the more you pay attention to what your body is telling you, the more you realize that you trust yourself to make decisions.’ NiaRenee, ‘I cried for all the times that I couldn't cry, and I started talking for all the times that I couldn't talk back. I started to take my voice back.’ RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: FOLLOW NIARENEE: Your website link: Instagram: Movie Trailer "I Love You My Narcissist": “Healing isn’t just about leaving the abuse—it’s about learning to trust yourself again and choosing a different life.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/40612610

EP 73: From Surviving to Thriving: Practical Steps for Women Rebuilding After Toxic Relationships with Trish Lynn 03/18/2026

EP 73: From Surviving to Thriving: Practical Steps for Women Rebuilding After Toxic Relationships with Trish Lynn In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura welcomes Trish Lynn, a life coach and identity recalibration mentor who helps women rebuild their internal operating system after trauma, toxic dynamics, and years of self-silencing. After leaving a 16-year narcissistic relationship, Trish rebuilt her voice, regulated her nervous system, and redefined her identity from the inside out. Today, she guides women in healing their self-concept, reclaiming their voices, and becoming the version of themselves who can be seen, heard, and fully expressed without collapsing. In this powerful conversation, Laura and Trish discuss the journey from victimhood to empowerment, exploring the challenges of rebuilding self-esteem, setting boundaries, and rediscovering identity after leaving toxic relationships. As a single mom and survivor of narcissistic abuse, Trish shares personal insights about healing, parenting, and overcoming self-doubt, while offering practical guidance for women ready to reclaim their confidence and rebuild their lives. The episode highlights the importance of self-care, nervous system healing, community, and authenticity in the recovery process, offering hope and actionable insights for listeners on their own path to healing and empowerment. Key Topics & Timestamps Guest Introduction: Trish Lynn (00:01:23) Trish’s background as a single mom, survivor, and content marketing strategist for women recovering from toxic relationships. Why Trish Chose Her Niche (00:02:20) Trish explains how her own experience with abuse influenced her business focus. Impact of Abuse on Business & Self-Esteem (00:02:58) Laura and Trish discuss how toxic relationships undermine confidence and business success. Regaining Voice & Authenticity Online (00:03:42) The struggle to express oneself authentically after abuse and the importance of self-trust in content creation. Dealing with Criticism & Perception (00:06:12) Handling negative feedback online and learning not to internalize others’ perceptions. Teaching Self-Worth & Boundaries (00:08:47) Helping women rebuild self-worth, set boundaries, and value their work after toxic relationships. Overcoming Sabotage & Brain Fog (00:15:35) Trish shares how her ex sabotaged her business and the challenges of parenting and working during abuse. Holistic Healing: Nutrition & Self-Care (00:18:43) Trish’s holistic approach, including nutrition and self-care, to support healing and business growth. Parenting & Breaking Generational Patterns (00:24:47) Teaching children healthy boundaries and breaking cycles of abuse for future generations. Reactive Abuse & Healing with Children (00:28:16) Discussing reactive rage, apologizing to children, and mutual healing after leaving abuse. Narcissists’ Lack of Accountability (00:36:25) Red flags: abusers never take responsibility for problems in any area of life. Public vs. Private Persona of Abusers (00:37:19) How covert narcissists appear charming in public but are abusive at home. Rest, Self-Compassion, and Nervous System Healing (00:39:37) The importance of rest, self-compassion, and nervous system regulation after leaving abuse. Rediscovering Joy & Self-Care Rituals (00:41:02) Finding happiness, daily rituals, and self-care as part of rebuilding life and business. Overcoming Guilt & Building a Business Post-Abuse (00:42:14) Letting go of guilt, making bold moves, and growing a business as a single mom. Money Mindset & Leaving Despite Financial Fears (00:43:46) Shifting money mindset, setting intentions, and leaving toxic relationships even with little or no money. Knowing When You’re Done & Taking the Leap (00:46:04) Recognizing the moment you’re truly done and ready to leave, regardless of circumstances. Helping Complete Beginners Start Businesses (00:47:15) Trish supports women at all stages, including those starting from scratch. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Trish, 'For so long, I wasn’t allowed to have an opinion. If I had an opinion that was my own, it was the wrong opinion for sure.' Trish, 'Energetically, I didn’t have the capacity to be in that relationship and grow my business. I was walking on eggshells every day.' Trish, 'I sat for a moment and I’m like, I failed. My biggest thought was I failed my kids, and now I’m like, no, I didn’t, because they are seeing something so much better and I am their safe space.' Trish, 'I am breaking these patterns so that my little girl does not grow up thinking this is how we are treated. And my boys, I do not want them to grow up thinking this is how we treat women.' Trish, 'Having the compassion for yourself to take the rest when you need the rest, because coming out of it, your body needs that time to heal.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: FOLLOW TRISH: WEBSITE: INSTAGRAM: FACEBOOK: Self-Mastery & Money Reset: “Your past may explain your story, but it doesn’t have to define your future—you have the power to rebuild, reclaim your voice, and create a life that feels like your own.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/40475490

EP 72: Navigating the Journey of Healing: Self-Love, Boundaries, and Overcoming Narcissistic Abuse with Tiffany K 03/04/2026

EP 72: Navigating the Journey of Healing: Self-Love, Boundaries, and Overcoming Narcissistic Abuse with Tiffany K In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura sits down with Tiffany K—a school teacher, yoga instructor, hiking enthusiast, coffee lover, devoted mom to three adult children, proud grandmother, and narcissistic abuse survivor turned thriver. Tiffany brings both professional insight and deeply personal experience to this conversation, sharing her powerful journey from surviving toxic relationships to embracing healing, self-love, and authentic living. As the host of The Journey Within with Tiffany K., a show dedicated to helping women reconnect with themselves and cultivate personal growth, Tiffany is passionate about guiding others toward emotional freedom and empowerment. Together, Laura and Tiffany explore the realities of trauma, the courage it takes to leave abusive dynamics, and practical tools for recovery—including meditation, journaling, boundaries, and community support. Tiffany’s story is a testament to resilience and serves as an inspiring reminder that healing is possible and thriving is within reach. Key Topics & Timestamps Tiffany’s Background and Podcast Journey (00:02:10) Tiffany shares her diverse background and how she started her podcast focused on healing. Discovering the Healing Journey (00:02:54) Tiffany explains how her healing journey led to podcasting and the importance of addressing trauma stored in the body. Healing Modalities and Nervous System Regulation (00:03:55) Discussion about different healing methods, including journaling, meditation, and the impact of trauma on the nervous system. Recognizing Narcissistic Traits and Trauma Bonds (00:09:42) Tiffany details the common traits of narcissists and the addictive cycle of trauma bonding. Leaving Abusive Relationships and the Seven-Times Statistic (00:12:26) Discussion about why it takes multiple attempts to leave abusive relationships and the emotional manipulation involved. Tools for Breaking Trauma Bonds (00:19:22) Strategies like making lists or videos to remember the bad times and resist returning to abusers. Abusers Moving On Quickly and Self-Healing (00:20:08) Discussion about how abusers move on fast, while survivors focus on healing and self-growth. Learning and Setting Boundaries (00:24:40) Laura and Tiffany discuss the importance of boundaries as an act of self-love and protection. Boundaries in Practice and Societal Messages (00:25:09) Practical advice on setting boundaries and recognizing unhealthy relationship dynamics. Does the Label Matter? (00:29:06) Emphasis that the label “narcissist” is less important than how someone treats you. Conditional Gifts and Manipulation (00:29:49) Examples of manipulation through conditional gift-giving and emotional control. Self-Love and Rebuilding Identity (00:31:07) The journey of learning self-love, accepting compliments, and rebuilding identity after abuse. Journaling and Tracking Progress (00:37:22) The value of journaling to observe healing progress and rediscover personal interests. Discovering Self and Enjoying Solitude (00:39:15) Tiffany describes finding joy in her own company and exploring new hobbies. Trying New Things and Finding Peace (00:41:17) Encouragement to try new activities, focus on mental health, and find peace after leaving abuse. Guided Meditation and Healing the Mind (00:42:24) The benefits of guided meditation and mindfulness for healing trauma and regulating the nervous system. Rest, Fatigue, and the Body’s Recovery (00:47:40) Discussion about post-abuse fatigue, the body’s need for rest, and the transition to peace. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Tiffany, 'I remember moving out of my nice, fancy house into this little tiny apartment, and I thought, this is it. I’m free. I’m going to feel amazing now. But I had no clue about the healing journey I was about to begin.' Tiffany', 'Whenever I would go back to him, it was always those good times that would come up first, which is why I got towards the end, where I would start recording myself with tears running down my face, leaving his house, so I could go back and watch it every time I craved him.' Tiffany, 'I didn’t love myself. I didn’t respect myself, or I wouldn’t have continued to put up with the shit for so long.' Tiffany, 'It does not matter if there’s a label. It does not matter if they have NPD and it’s stamped on something. The point is, do they show you love? And if you don’t really know what love is, let me tell you something: when you’re constantly walking on eggshells or your boundaries are constantly crossed, that is not love.' Tiffany, 'It really is so much better on the other side when you’re living in peace, you know?' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: FOLLOW TIFFANY: Podcast: Instagram: “Leaving was the first step—but learning to love myself, rebuild my identity, and finally live in peace was the true healing.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/40280970

EP 71: Empowering Women: Learning to Trust Yourself and Set Boundaries for a Fulfilling Life with Vanessa Kavulish 02/18/2026

EP 71: Empowering Women: Learning to Trust Yourself and Set Boundaries for a Fulfilling Life with Vanessa Kavulish In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura sits down with Vanessa Kavulish, a business strategist, speaker, entrepreneur, and founder of VK Growth Consulting. Vanessa helps founders scale their businesses with clarity and alignment—without losing themselves in the process. Having advised and coached hundreds of entrepreneurs, and as the founder of Benefit Bar, an elevated eco-friendly event brand known for exceptional execution and unforgettable experiences, Vanessa brings both strategic expertise and lived insight into sustainable growth and authentic leadership. In this empowering conversation, Vanessa shares her personal journey from seeking external validation to trusting her intuition, setting strong boundaries, and prioritizing self-respect. She and Laura explore the impact of societal conditioning, the importance of rest, and how relationships evolve as women step into their true selves. Vanessa also offers practical guidance on building confidence, strengthening self-trust, and growing both personally and professionally without sacrificing well-being. This episode is a powerful reminder that true success comes from alignment, authenticity, and honoring who you are becoming. Key Topics & Timestamps Content Warning (00:01:16) A brief warning about potentially triggering subjects in the episode. Guest Introduction: Vanessa the Empowerment Coach (00:01:25) Laura introduces Vanessa, her background, and her work as an empowerment coach. Vanessa’s Journey: Overachieving & Seeking Validation (00:02:15) Vanessa shares her upbringing, need for external validation, and how it led to her career and eventual unhappiness. Breaking Free from Others’ Expectations (00:04:18) Discussion about filtering advice from well-meaning people and learning to trust your own path. Weeding Out External Voices & Self-Trust (00:07:22) The process of identifying which internal voices are truly your own and learning self-trust. Reframing Self-Validation & Self-Respect (00:08:02) Vanessa explains the importance of self-respect and treating yourself as your own best friend. Vanessa’s Epiphanies & Empowerment (00:09:25) Vanessa shares how self-trust led to empowerment, new opportunities, and the start of her coaching journey. Coaching Focus: Women & Setting Boundaries (00:12:38) Vanessa explains her focus on coaching women and the importance of practicing saying no and setting boundaries. Self-Reflection: Judging Others & Internal Beliefs (00:17:28) Vanessa discusses how our judgments of others reflect our own internal struggles with boundaries. Learning Boundaries Through Experience (00:18:34) Laura shares her personal journey of discovering boundaries and the challenges of asserting them. Levels of Boundaries: With Others & Self (00:20:15) Vanessa explains that boundaries exist on many levels, including with oneself, and shares her own experiences. Rest, Burnout, and Permission to Slow Down (00:21:12) Discussion about the importance of rest, recognizing burnout, and giving yourself permission to take breaks. Losing & Gaining Relationships During Growth (00:26:29) Discussion on how healing and setting boundaries can lead to losing some relationships but making space for new, supportive ones. Normalizing Change in Social Circles (00:30:02) Vanessa normalizes the cycling of people in and out of our lives as we grow and change. Coping with the Pain of Losing Connections (00:31:20) Acknowledging the emotional difficulty of losing close connections during personal transformation. Final Thoughts: Trusting Your Authentic Self (00:32:40) Vanessa’s closing advice to trust yourself, embrace your authentic self, and reconnect with your inner child. Being Yourself Attracts Your Tribe (00:34:12) Laura and Vanessa discuss how authenticity and humor help attract like-minded people and foster healing. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Vanessa, ‘We have to learn to trust ourselves before we trust anybody else.’ Vanessa, ‘The person you have from the moment you're born until the moment you die is you, so you really have to learn how to be your best friend.’ Laura, ‘The ultimate act of self-love for me was learning how to set boundaries.’ Vanessa, ‘You have to give yourself permission to slow down, because we can't pour from an empty cup.’ Vanessa, ‘The key is just trusting yourself and leaning into who you are.’ RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: FOLLOW VANESSA: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube: Website: "Self-trust is the foundation of every boundary, every decision, and every aligned life." Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/40150680

EP 70: Unmasking the "Man of God": Gabrielle Burton on Spiritual Abuse, Narcissism, and Identity Restoration 02/04/2026

EP 70: Unmasking the "Man of God": Gabrielle Burton on Spiritual Abuse, Narcissism, and Identity Restoration In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura sits down with Gabrielle Burton, a Christian Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in the intersection of faith and clinical mental health. Gabrielle’s expertise isn't just professional—it’s deeply personal. Growing up as the "Golden Child" of a narcissistic pastor, she lived the confusing reality of reconciling a charismatic public persona with the severe emotional abuse that happened behind closed doors. Gabrielle shares her journey of "performing for love" and how her upbringing in a high-control religious environment shaped her calling to help others heal from spiritual abuse and "church hurt." Together, she and Laura pull back the curtain on how narcissists hide in plain sight within church systems, the psychological toll of "playing dead" to survive, and the path to reclaiming an identity that isn't tied to performance. Meet the Guest: Gabrielle Burton Gabrielle Burton is a Christian Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, author, content creator, and podcast host passionate about helping people heal from trauma, overcome abuse, and walk fully in their God-given calling. With over 10 years of experience, she specializes in narcissistic and spiritual abuse, church hurt, and identity restoration—bridging biblical truth with clinical mental health care. Gabrielle earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Bethel University and has an extensive clinical background spanning foster care, hospital intensive outpatient programs, and trauma-focused therapeutic retreats. She is the author of "The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Gold Digger: Discovering the Hidden Treasures Within" and hosts the YouTube podcast "Hosting Heaven." A former member of the Grammy Award–winning ensemble "Sounds of Blackness," Gabrielle continues to use her background in singing and creative storytelling as a tool for healing and impact. Key Topics & Timestamps The "Golden Child" Experience (00:03:15): Gabrielle describes the moving target of her father’s approval and being treated as an extension of his ego. Public Persona vs. Private Reality (00:05:40): The difficulty of reconciling a father who is a "great storyteller" and pastor with the man who inflicted severe mental and emotional abuse at home. Performing for Love (00:08:22): How being a "parentified child" taught Gabrielle that her value was tied to her gifts and "putting on a happy face." The God Complex (00:15:30): Gabrielle recalls the "Made in My Father's Image" portrait—a chilling example of a narcissist’s god complex and lack of boundaries. Narcissism in Church Systems (00:19:45): A deep dive into how high-control religious environments prime women for abuse through rules on submission and silence. Peacemakers vs. Peacekeepers (00:24:10): Gabrielle clarifies the difference: Peacekeepers stay silent to survive, while Peacemakers (like Jesus) confront toxicity to bring truth. The "Narc Fog" and Social Rejection (00:29:55): Discussion on the anterior cingulate—how our brains register social rejection from a community as a physical threat to survival. The Madonna-Whore Complex (00:32:40): Gabrielle explains this psychological splitting and how narcissists use it to manipulate and devalue their partners. Authenticity as "Narcissist Repellent" (00:36:15): Why finding your own voice and setting boundaries is the quickest way to end a narcissistic cycle. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Gabrielle: "Narcissism is being more worried about what people think about you than what God thinks about you." Gabrielle: "You play dead in order to survive... you stop questioning things because it’s almost more crazy-making to try to have a different reality than just to go with the flow." Laura: "I remember those lectures... like, do I need to be here for this? Can you just record yourself? It’s ridiculous." Gabrielle: "Rules without revelation equals resentment, which looks like rebellion." RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: FOLLOW Gabrielle: WEBSITE: INSTAGRAM: FACEBOOK: "Healing begins the moment you stop performing for a system and start showing up for yourself." Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/39987025

EP 69: From Pain to Purpose: Alana Sharps on Healing from Narcissistic Abuse and Supporting Others 01/21/2026

EP 69: From Pain to Purpose: Alana Sharps on Healing from Narcissistic Abuse and Supporting Others In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura sits down with Alana Sharps, founder of SurThrive Tribe, a High Conflict Divorce and Child Custody Consultant, and Best Selling Author. Alana’s work is deeply rooted in both professional expertise and lived experience. After navigating a toxic marriage marked by psychological abuse, she transformed her own pain into purpose—emerging as an empowered survivor and a dedicated advocate for others facing similar challenges. Alana shares her personal journey through a psychologically abusive marriage with a covert narcissist, the realities of high-conflict divorce and child custody battles, and the ongoing impact of post-separation abuse. Together, she and Laura discuss the importance of trauma-informed therapy, rebuilding self-worth, and the role of community support in healing. Inspired by her own experiences, Alana explains how she now helps others navigate the complex and often overwhelming landscape of high-conflict divorce. This episode offers hope, practical guidance, and valuable resources for anyone facing similar circumstances. Key Topics & Timestamps Alana’s Timeline: Leaving and Helping Others (00:02:22) Alana shares when she left her marriage (2018) and began helping others (2021). Realizing the Abuse and Awakening (00:02:59) Discussion about recognizing narcissistic abuse and the awakening process after leaving. Therapy and Dismissing Early Warnings (00:04:08) Alana recalls dismissing her therapist’s warning about narcissism during her marriage. Love Bombing and Early Relationship Red Flags (00:07:47) Alana describes meeting her ex, early boundary-pushing, and the love bombing phase. Rapid Relationship Progression (00:10:35) The relationship moved quickly: moving in, engagement, and marriage within a year. Cycle of Abuse and Trying to Fix Things (00:14:22) Alana discusses the cycle of trying to regain the “good times” and the reality of abuse. Parenting and Control Over Children (00:18:09) Alana describes her ex’s controlling behavior with their children, especially her daughter. Leaving After Witnessing Abuse (00:21:27) Alana decided to leave after witnessing her ex assault her son, prioritizing her children’s safety. Supporting Others: Safety Planning (00:22:30) Alana explains how she supports clients, especially around safety planning when leaving abuse. Predictable Abuser Tactics in Court (00:25:36) Alana describes common legal tactics used by abusers, including false accusations and parental alienation. Therapy Challenges with Narcissists (00:27:29) The difficulties and ineffectiveness of couples counseling with narcissists are discussed. Financial Abuse and Hiding Assets (00:32:23) Discussion about financial manipulation and hiding assets during divorce. Becoming a High Conflict Divorce Coach (00:33:58) Alana’s journey to becoming a certified high conflict divorce and child custody coach. EMDR and Healing from Trauma (00:37:34) Alana shares her experience with EMDR therapy for complex PTSD and managing triggers. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Alana, 'I wanted to be the person I needed when I was going through my divorce and child custody cases, because it’s the worst feeling in the world to be scared you’ll lose custody of your children.' Alana, 'In public, he was the perfect father and spouse, but behind closed doors, our family was tormented.' Alana, 'On our wedding night, he flipped out on me and continued to treat me badly on our honeymoon, and I was so confused.' Alana, 'When I saw him assault my oldest son, the light bulb went off and I knew the kids were not safe and I needed to leave.' Alana, 'When you share children, that’s the last piece of control an abuser has over you, because now they can use the legal system to control you.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: FOLLOW ALANA: Your website link: Instagram Link: Freebie: Tik Tok: Facebook Page: Was It My Fault Book: From the episode: Complex PTSD (CPTSD) is a condition resulting from prolonged, repeated trauma (like ongoing abuse or captivity) that includes standard PTSD symptoms (flashbacks, avoidance) plus core difficulties in emotional regulation, self-perception (worthlessness, shame), and relationships (mistrust, isolation). It's often linked to childhood trauma, but can affect adults, differing from PTSD by its chronic cause and added disturbances in identity and connection with others. EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a psychotherapy that helps people heal from trauma and distressing life events by reprocessing painful memories using bilateral stimulation (like eye movements, taps, or sounds) while focusing on the memory, reducing its emotional impact and helping the brain process it more adaptively. Developed by Francine Shapiro, it's recognized by organizations like the WHO and APA as an effective treatment for PTSD, anxiety, and other conditions stemming from unprocessed past experiences. “Awareness is the first step from surviving abuse to reclaiming your power.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/39792560

EP 68: Permission Granted: How to Prioritize Pleasure and Presence in Your Everyday Life with Amy Jones 01/07/2026

EP 68: Permission Granted: How to Prioritize Pleasure and Presence in Your Everyday Life with Amy Jones In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura sits down with Amy Jones — a Reflector Mentor, Sacred Strategist, and award-winning Publisher who generated over $1M in new client revenue in her first year of business while working part-time as a single mom of three. As a rare Reflector (just 1% of the population), Amy blends intuitive clarity with grounded, strategic leadership to help women build sustainable, soul-led businesses rooted in rhythm, purpose, and inner truth. Before founding LIVE WITH INTENT Media Group, Amy spent more than two decades in corporate sales and leadership across IBM, TELUS, and a high-growth digital media start-up, contributing to its expansion from 7 to 300 employees in under two years. Today, she leads a growing ecosystem that includes Okanagan Lake Living Magazine, the Leadership in Rhythm Series, and the Futures Foundation—a circular wealth model directing revenue back into women-led families, emerging founders, and community impact projects. In their conversation, Amy shares her journey from corporate burnout to becoming an intuitive life and business mentor. She and Laura explore what it means to break free from societal pressures, prioritize self-care, and allow yourself permission to experience pleasure, rest, and presence. Amy offers practical insights for nurturing well-being, celebrating small wins, and leading yourself with intention. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of healing, balance, and self-leadership for women seeking more joy and authenticity in their everyday lives. Key Topics & Timestamps Guest Introduction: Amy’s Background (00:01:33) Laura introduces Amy, her business, and her approach to pleasure and business mastery. Laughter and Joy as Medicine (00:02:00) Amy and Laura discuss the importance of laughter, joy, and laughter yoga for well-being. Amy’s Path to Healing and Energy Work (00:06:38) Amy describes her journey from codependency and therapy to discovering energy healing and chakras. Helping Women Find Self-Leadership (00:09:47) Amy explains her mission to help women untangle unhealthy patterns and embrace self-leadership. The Instinct for “More” and Midlife Reflection (00:11:33) Discussion about the instinctive longing for more and how it often surfaces at midlife. Rest as a Skill and Societal Pressures (00:13:35) Amy discusses the importance of rest, her husband’s experience, and society’s struggle with slowing down. Amy’s Coaching Approach: Self-Leadership (00:15:36) Amy explains her coaching style, focusing on self-leadership rather than mothering or spoon-feeding. Celebrating Small Wins and Incremental Progress (00:16:54) Amy uses the analogy of learning to ride a bike to illustrate the value of small, celebrated steps. Redefining Success and Life Templates (00:23:18) Amy and Laura question societal templates for success in work and relationships. Recognizing When Life Feels Wrong (00:24:04) Amy shares her realization that her “perfect” life felt unfulfilling and unsafe, prompting change. Permission for Pleasure: Amy’s Speaker Series (00:27:45) Amy introduces her “Permission for Pleasure” concept and speaker series, focusing on allowing oneself to receive pleasure. Creating Space for Pleasure and Feminine Embodiment (00:32:24) Amy discusses feminine embodiment, creating space for pleasure, and how small changes can influence family dynamics. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Amy, 'My number one purpose in life is to enjoy life, not to work myself to exhaustion until I’m 65 and then take a vacation.' Amy, 'Resting is a skill that is highly underrated.' Amy, 'When you learn how to slow down and be in the moment and rest, you actually genuinely receive.' Amy, 'I help women slow down so they can really enjoy the depth and richness of everything around them.' Amy, 'Wherever you are, whatever you’re going through, you have a mission, a message, and a purpose. You are so, so important.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: Connect with Amy Facebook Group: Instagram: YouTube: Website: Current Offer: Additional Link: Okanagan Lake Living Magazine “True leadership begins when you give yourself permission to slow down, receive, and enjoy your own life.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/39532635

EP 67: How Lynda's Fear-Busting Challenge Changed Everything In Her Life 12/24/2025

EP 67: How Lynda's Fear-Busting Challenge Changed Everything In Her Life In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura interviews Lynda Sunshine West, who shares her journey from a traumatic childhood to personal transformation. Lynda recounts running away from home at age five, overcoming years of fear and low self-worth, and breaking through one fear every day for a year. Her story highlights healing from past trauma, building healthy relationships, and finding purpose as a bestselling author and book publisher. The conversation offers hope and practical tools for women seeking to overcome fear, embrace self-acceptance, and create a fulfilling, authentic life. Key Topics & Timestamps Origin of the Name "Sunshine" (00:03:16) Lynda explains how she adopted the name "Sunshine" during her year of breaking through fears. Running Away at Age Five (00:04:31) Lynda recounts running away from home at age five and the emotional impact it had on her life. Childhood Family Dynamics & Self-Worth (00:06:53) Discussion of Lynda’s family environment, feelings of neglect, and how these shaped her self-worth. Personal Growth & Marital Challenges (00:15:39) Lynda shares how personal growth affected her marriage and her husband’s reaction to her transformation. Gaslighting & Narcissistic Abuse (00:18:59) Laura discusses gaslighting, narcissistic abuse, and her book on reclaiming self-worth. Catalyst for Change at Age 51 (00:28:18) Lynda describes the breaking point in her career and the decision to hire a life coach. The Power of Choice & Self-Discovery (00:33:22) Discussion on human choice, self-discovery, and the importance of making life changes at any age. Marriage, Support, and Tough Love (00:34:36) Lynda shares a story about her husband’s tough love regarding her health and the lessons learned. Breaking Through Fear: The 365-Day Challenge (00:40:32) Lynda details her year-long challenge to break through one fear every day and its impact. The Fear of Judgment & People-Pleasing (00:43:32) Lynda identifies fear of judgment as the root of many of her fears and how she overcame it. Seven Simple Steps to Break Through Fear (00:45:55) Lynda introduces her seven-step method for overcoming fear and explains its logic. Becoming a Book Publisher (00:50:19) Lynda shares how her journey led her to become a book publisher and help others share their stories. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Lynda, 'At five years old, gone a week, nobody came to get me. That belief was established: they didn’t come because they didn’t love me or want me around.' Lynda, 'I believed I was stupid because he told me this every single day. I believed I was ignorant. I believed nobody liked me and that people were only nice to me because they felt sorry for me.' Lynda, 'I hate my life. I hate everything I’m doing. I hate this job. Why am I doing this? Why am I here on this planet? What’s my purpose?' Lynda, 'I didn’t know I was in the dark until I was in the light. I was in the dark for 51 years.' Lynda, 'I have so many fears that are stopping me from living my life. I’m going to break through one fear every day this year.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: Connect with Lynda Facebook: Instagram: TikTok: YouTube: Website: Download a free copy of Lynda’s book, Do It BECAUSE You’re Scared, at , and break through the fears that are holding you back. “Courage isn’t the absence of fear — it’s choosing to move anyway.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/39498720

EP 66: Consciously Awake: Lisa's Journey Out of Toxic Love 12/10/2025

EP 66: Consciously Awake: Lisa's Journey Out of Toxic Love In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura interviews Lisa Hawkins — a Dating & Relationship Coach who empowers men and women to thrive in their relationships. With over 30 years of experience, Lisa has dedicated her life to understanding the intricacies of human connection and what truly makes relationships flourish. Her personal journey, marked by challenges, growth, and deep spiritual awareness, has given her a profound understanding of the obstacles individuals face in their search for love, healing, and self-discovery. Lisa shares her story of overcoming generational trauma, abuse, and the difficult process of recovering after an abusive marriage. The conversation explores the struggle of recognizing and trusting your instincts, the impact of societal conditioning, and the non-linear nature of healing. Lisa also offers practical guidance on self-awareness, journaling, and cultivating self-love. Together, she and Laura highlight the importance of compassion, patience, and honoring your unique path. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their own journeys and seek support as they reclaim their lives. Key Topics & Timestamps Lisa’s Background and Unconscious Family Conditioning (00:02:33) Lisa shares her upbringing in a toxic, unconscious family and how it led to abusive relationships. Experiences of Oppression and Lack of Boundaries (00:03:42) Lisa describes being raised to be agreeable, lacking boundaries, and early experiences of abuse. Immediate Regret After Marriage (00:06:52) Lisa recalls knowing she made a mistake hours after marrying, but feeling trapped by religion. Life in an Abusive Marriage (00:07:32) Lisa details her ten-year marriage, cycles of leaving and returning, and escalation of abuse. Barriers to Leaving Abusive Relationships (00:09:09) Lisa and Laura discuss why leaving abuse is complex, including privilege and safety concerns. The Long Healing Journey (00:14:12) Lisa shares that her healing has spanned 30 years, involving unraveling trauma and conditioning. Visible Healing and Personal Growth (00:16:15) Laura and Lisa reflect on how healing manifests outwardly and the unseen hard work behind it. Reacting vs. Responding and the Limits of Clichés (00:19:10) Discussion on the difference between reacting and responding, and why healing isn’t as simple as memes suggest. Being vs. Doing in Healing (00:23:23) Lisa emphasizes the importance of being present and authentic in the healing process. Journaling and Pattern Recognition (00:26:04) Lisa recommends journaling to track feelings and patterns, aiding in rebuilding self-trust. Lisa’s Podcast and Coaching Work (00:28:54) Lisa introduces her podcast "Conscious Insights" and describes her coaching clientele. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Lisa, 'That was the pivoting point in my life where I hit absolute bottom. There was absolutely nothing left of me.'Lisa, 'Some part of me, the fighter in me, came up and said, I’m not going to let this define me, and I will overcome it.'Lisa, 'Sometimes the emotions are more than what our bodies and brain and nervous system can take, and we become numb because that’s the only way we can survive.'Lisa, 'There was a lot of conditioning that I wasn’t aware of when I started the journey that was given to me from generations that I’ve had to unravel.'Lisa, 'There are times when I’m still learning to trust my gut, and I’ve been doing this for a long time.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: Connect with Lisa Lisa Hawkins Dating & Relationship Coach - Consciously Awake Counseling Amazon KDP Ebook The Awakening by Lisa Hawkins : Conscious Insights Podcast: “Healing begins the moment you stop ignoring your instincts and start trusting your truth.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/39311015

EP 65: Beth's Cinderella Story: A Journey of Healing, Courage, and God-Given Purpose 11/26/2025

EP 65: Beth's Cinderella Story: A Journey of Healing, Courage, and God-Given Purpose In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura welcomes Beth M. Jones—an International Speaker, Author of 30 books, and podcaster. Beth is the wife of fire chief Ray, mom to three beautiful daughters (Heather, Eden, and Leah), and has two adorable cats. She helps women step out of fear into faith by sharing her story and the freedom we have in Jesus. Beth believes we should dream big because we serve a big God! Beth shares her powerful journey from childhood abuse and toxic relationships to healing and faith. She discusses overcoming trauma, recognizing red flags in abusive relationships, and the importance of self-worth and support. Drawing on her own experiences and faith in Jesus, Beth encourages women to step out of fear and embrace their unique purpose. The episode offers hope, practical insights, and resources for women seeking freedom and transformation. Key Topics & Timestamps Beth’s Motivation to Help Women (00:02:47) Beth explains how her childhood experiences inspired her to help women step out of fear into faith. Cinderella as a Metaphor for Unique Purpose (00:04:02) Beth discusses her connection to Cinderella, relating it to abuse and dreaming big. Beth’s Childhood Abuse and Early Escape (00:05:03) Beth shares her experiences of childhood abuse and her desire to leave home as a teenager. Short-Lived First Marriage and Divorce (00:08:08) Beth talks about her brief first marriage, the birth of her daughter, and eventual separation. Post-Divorce Partying and Delayed Healing (00:11:13) Beth admits to partying and not focusing on self-improvement until much later in life. Journalism Career and Second Marriage (00:12:28) Beth describes her journalism internship, meeting her second husband, and his initial charm. Escalating Abuse and Financial Dependence (00:22:07) Beth describes the onset of her husband’s temper, walking on eggshells, and feeling trapped financially. Physical Abuse Toward Beth’s Daughter (00:28:26) Beth recounts her husband’s violence toward her daughter, a medical emergency, and moving to escape. Trauma Bonding and Self-Doubt (00:35:06) Beth and Laura discuss trauma bonding, self-esteem issues, and the difficulty of breaking free from abuse. Beginning the Healing Journey (00:36:41) Beth starts counseling after her husband leaves, experiences panic attacks, and begins healing with her daughter. Therapy, Journaling, and Recovery (00:38:04) Beth describes the impact of therapy, journaling, and addressing compounded childhood trauma. Overcoming Fear and Embracing Public Speaking (00:41:04) Beth shares her initial fear of public speaking and how she learned to “do it afraid.” Travel, Growth, and Encouraging Others (00:42:54) Beth discusses international speaking, personal growth, and encouraging others to pursue their dreams. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Beth, 'It stems from my own life experiences, things I went through in childhood, and I just have a passion for women to dream big and be all that God created them to be.' Beth, 'I can’t say the marriage was a mistake because out of that marriage came my beautiful, precious daughter, Heather.' Beth, 'I think I always was looking for that love, that unconditional love that we want from someone.' Beth, 'I would try to please him and there wasn’t pleasing him. I just felt that tension around him and I began to notice that temper.' Beth, 'Because of my childhood abuse, I didn’t have the confidence in myself and value myself enough to know this is not good. This is not right. I should not be with this man.' Beth, 'I started going once a week, and I began to deal with all the pain and the trauma in my life, and it really helped me just to talk it out with a trusted person.' Beth, 'We do it afraid, just like you said. We do it afraid out of obedience to God, but just to give people hope and encourage others.' RESOURCES: RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: SELF WORTH RESET MINI COURSE: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: Connect with Beth Amazon Author Page: Facebook: Podcast: YouTube Channel (videos & vlogs): Etsy Shop: "Bravery isn’t loud—sometimes it’s just choosing yourself." Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/39149455

EP 64: Gray Rock & Glow Up with Julie Danielson: Rebuilding Life After a Toxic Marriage 11/12/2025

EP 64: Gray Rock & Glow Up with Julie Danielson: Rebuilding Life After a Toxic Marriage In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura welcomes Julie Danielson—Life Coach, author, host of the "Get Over Divorce" podcast, and creator of the "Get Over Divorce Collective," a coaching program that helps women heal powerfully and create a life they love after divorce. Julie discusses healing after divorce, especially from narcissistic relationships, sharing her personal journey and the challenges of co-parenting with a toxic ex. She offers practical strategies like setting boundaries and using the Gray Rock Method. Together, they emphasize the importance of self-care, supportive communities, and rediscovering joy after trauma. Listeners are encouraged to reclaim their self-worth, embrace new experiences, and connect with resources for ongoing support and empowerment. Key Topics & Timestamps Julie's Divorce Story (00:02:18) Julie shares her background, early marriage, and the personal journey leading to her divorce. Personal Growth After Divorce (00:06:33) Julie discusses her self-improvement, career growth, and the decision to end her marriage. Co-Parenting and Divorce Logistics (00:07:57) Julie explains the divorce process, co-parenting arrangements, and how clear agreements helped. Empowered Dating and Self-Worth (00:11:32) Laura and Julie reflect on dating with self-worth, authenticity, and not shape-shifting for others. How Julie Became a Divorce Coach (00:13:25) Julie describes her journey into coaching, the importance of authentic connections, and building her program. Julie's Second Marriage and Continued Growth (00:15:44) Julie shares meeting her current husband, the growth within a healthy relationship, and career transitions. Building a Coaching Business (00:17:39) Julie talks about starting her coaching business, focusing on helping women through divorce. Narcissistic Abuse vs. "Regular" Divorce (00:18:51) Discussion on the differences between divorcing a narcissist and a typical divorce, and the prevalence of narcissistic abuse. Losing Friends and Outgrowing Social Circles (00:26:31) They discuss how healing and setting boundaries can lead to losing friends who thrived on drama. Neuroplasticity and Healing the Brain (00:35:25) Discussion on how trying new things helps heal the brain after abuse and builds new neural pathways. Advice for Women Newly Divorced (00:37:11) Julie shares the "gray rock" method for dealing with toxic or narcissistic exes and minimizing emotional responses. Turning the Tables on the Narcissist (00:40:09) How gray rocking annoys narcissists and helps reclaim personal power. Handling Provocations and Staying Factual (00:41:42) Advice on not justifying or explaining yourself, sticking to facts, and not reacting to provocations. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Julie, 'As you grow and change, you are reaching new levels.' Julie, 'You don’t need that drama in your life. Drama is life-sucking, and drama is what the narcissist surrounds himself with.' Julie, 'Your brain just expanded and you created a new neurotransmitter that says, “Oh, I can do this.”' Laura, 'I’m good. And I do not ever have to acknowledge it because I’ve done too much work. I’m worth more than that. And so I will gray rock my life away.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: SELF WORTH RESET MINI COURSE: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: JOIN THE HEALING GROUP: CONNECT WITH JULIE: Facebook: Instagram: TikTok: Book a free Divorce Breakthrough Session with me, I will help you uncover some blocks and blind spots so you can breakthrough to your next level of healing faster. Laura on Julie's podcast The Gray Rock Method "Boundaries aren’t walls—they’re bridges back to yourself." Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/38966350

EP 63: Your Money, Your Voice: How to Reclaim Control After Divorce with Rhonda Noordyk 10/29/2025

EP 63: Your Money, Your Voice: How to Reclaim Control After Divorce with Rhonda Noordyk In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura talks with Rhonda, a financial coach and advocate for women navigating divorce. Once someone who avoided conflict, Rhonda transformed her communication skills through therapy and education, turning her personal challenges into a mission to help other women find their voice and financial confidence. With over 17,000 hours of experience, 565 clients served, and $20 million secured for women, Rhonda brings both expertise and empathy to her work. A former financial advisor, she recognized that women facing divorce need more than advice—they need strategic and emotional support to rebuild their lives. Laura and Rhonda explore the realities of financial abuse, lack of access to information, and the emotional toll of divorce. Rhonda also shares her CIA framework—Communication, Integrity, and Advocacy—to help women make informed decisions and achieve lasting financial independence. Key Topics & Timestamps Transition to Financial Industry (00:05:20) Rhonda discusses entering the financial industry and encountering both support and dysfunction. Founding Women’s Financial Wellness Center (00:06:40) Rhonda explains why she started her business and her holistic approach to financial coaching. Challenging Gender Stereotypes in Finance (00:11:29) Laura and Rhonda discuss outdated views about women and money, and the importance of empowerment. Strategies for Uncovering Hidden Assets (00:15:11) Rhonda shares investigative strategies for finding hidden assets and the importance of asking the right questions. Manipulation in Divorce Settlements (00:20:50) Laura and Rhonda discuss manipulation, gaslighting, and the importance of advocating for fair settlements. Real-Life Impact of Divorce on Lifestyle (00:24:19) Rhonda explains the 41% decrease in lifestyle post-divorce and how to plan for financial changes. Encouraging Proactive Financial Conversations (00:30:29) Advice for women to start asking questions, taking inventory, and reviewing financial documents. Respect and Integrity in Financial Services (00:36:33) Laura and Rhonda discuss the need for respect, integrity, and clear communication from financial professionals. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Rhonda, 'If I can help one woman improve her relationship with money, I’ve empowered her for a lifetime.' Rhonda, 'We just have to crunch the numbers and see where stuff lands and give women a voice to be able to advocate for what they need.' Rhonda, 'Don’t just sign. That’s probably my biggest advice. Don’t just sign.' Rhonda, 'You don’t have to know everything. You just have to be willing to ask questions unapologetically.' Rhonda, 'You create that safety, you create that trust, you know that somebody has your best interests at heart.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: SELF WORTH RESET MINI COURSE: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Connect with Rhonda WEBSITE: Get immediate access to my FREE mini course. “Financial freedom begins the moment you find your voice.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/38781850

EP 62: Rebuilding After Divorce — Finding Yourself Again with Heidi Bee 10/15/2025

EP 62: Rebuilding After Divorce — Finding Yourself Again with Heidi Bee In this empowering episode of That’s Where I’m At, host Laura sits down with Heidi Bee, the Divorce Comeback Coach, to explore the emotional journey of rebuilding life after divorce. Heidi Bee is a certified and trauma-informed divorce coach and somatic breathwork facilitator. Through her 3-month Comeback Course & Coaching Community, she helps women navigate their “new normal” by providing the roadmap, resources, and relationships needed to move forward with confidence. She’s also the host of the Divorce Comeback Coach podcast, where she shares truth-telling conversations and practical guidance to help women take their next best step toward the life they deserve and desire. In this heartfelt conversation, Laura and Heidi open up about: The feelings of isolation, grief, and identity loss that often follow divorce — especially after long-term or toxic relationships. The importance of self-care, setting healthy boundaries, and rebuilding community during recovery. How embracing vulnerability and self-compassion can lead to powerful transformation and growth. Together, they remind listeners that while the road to healing may be difficult, it is also filled with opportunities for renewal, empowerment, and rediscovery of one’s true self. Key Topics & Timestamps Heidi’s Divorce Story and the “Divorce Ditch” (00:03:06) Heidi shares her personal experience of feeling lost and stuck after divorce, describing it as the “divorce ditch.” Coping Mechanisms and Avoidance (00:06:41) Heidi describes unhealthy coping mechanisms she used to avoid pain, such as overworking and numbing behaviors. Shame, Stigma, and the Need for Conversation (00:08:28) Exploring the shame and societal stigma around divorce, and the importance of open conversations. Coaching, Dreaming, and Finding Your Voice (00:17:28) Laura and Heidi discuss the role of coaching in helping women dream again and reclaim their voices. Relationship with Uncertainty and Healing (00:25:45) Learning to manage uncertainty, calm the nervous system, and develop new tools for emotional regulation. Attracting Healthy Relationships Through Self-Love (00:31:37) Heidi shares how self-love and authenticity attract healthier relationships, both romantic and platonic. Protecting Emotional Energy and Reclaiming Space (00:40:48) Heidi emphasizes protecting your emotional landscape and reclaiming energy from unhealthy attachments. Making a “Shit List” and Tracking Emotional Impact (00:44:52) Using a list to remember the negative impacts of an ex and tracking emotional responses to avoid repeating pain. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Heidi, 'I didn’t want to admit I was depressed, but I was grieving and resisting it.' Heidi, 'I woke up one day thinking, I don’t even know who I am anymore.' Laura, 'You deserve to trust your gut again. Spoiler alert: you were never the problem.' Laura, 'I started my podcast and realized no one ever let me talk.' Heidi, 'Recovery is self-discovery, and I forgot to continue to decide who I was going to be.' Heidi, 'It’s more about trusting yourself, trusting that no matter what happens, you can handle it.' Heidi, 'I want people to know you don’t have to be afraid of not knowing who you are. All that is, is uncertainty.' Heidi, 'The more I let go of things that no longer serve me, the more I have space to receive what is.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: SELF WORTH RESET MINI COURSE: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Connect with Heidi WEBSITE: INSTAGRAM: TIK TOK: Freebies & More: Divorce Comeback Coach Podcast - / “The more you let go of what’s gone, the more space you create for what’s meant for you.” Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/38552590

EP 61: The Power of Sobriety & Self-Discovery with Kate Vitela 10/01/2025

EP 61: The Power of Sobriety & Self-Discovery with Kate Vitela In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura sits down with Kate, a nurse of more than 20 years and a personal development coach, to talk about sobriety, self-worth, and healing after narcissistic relationships. Together, they explore how alcohol, food, and limiting beliefs can leave women vulnerable to toxic dynamics—and how breaking free requires courage, boundaries, and a new story. Kate shares her personal journey of getting sober, healing from toxic relationships, and reclaiming her power through coaching and self-discovery. With a focus on mental health and sobriety in her nursing career, Kate now runs a private practice helping women move past numbing behaviors and self-defeating patterns so they can step into their divine purpose. This heartfelt conversation offers practical strategies, hope, and encouragement for women ready to rewrite their narratives, reclaim their worth, and create healthier, more authentic lives. Key Topics & Timestamps Alcohol, Vulnerability, and Narcissistic Relationships (00:03:14) Kate explains how heavy drinking made her vulnerable to narcissistic partners and losing her sense of self. Drinking’s Impact on Women (00:06:33) Discussion on how alcohol affects women differently and the societal normalization of drinking. Boundaries and Coaching Women (00:14:42) The importance of boundaries, self-sabotage, and how Kate coaches women to recognize and address these issues. Gaslighting and Reclaiming Sanity (00:19:44) Laura and Kate discuss gaslighting in narcissistic relationships and the importance of trusting your gut. Losing and Gaining Friends in Sobriety (00:28:48) Kate and Laura talk about losing old friends and gaining more authentic connections after getting sober. Love Bombing, Alcohol, and the Nervous System (00:37:19) How love bombing and alcohol both create emotional highs and lows, destabilizing women in toxic relationships. Coaching vs. Therapy: The House Painting Analogy (00:41:51) Kate explains the difference between coaching and therapy, using the analogy of missing a spot while painting. Kate’s Coaching Practice (00:49:33) Kate describes her coaching services, approach, and how women can work with her for personal development and sobriety. Powerful Quotes from the Episode “Nobody plans on being an alcoholic; it’s a very insidious drug that creeps up on us.” - Kate “Give yourself permission to question your relationships when you get sober.” - Kate “Alcohol only fuels your anxiety, and your superpower is getting really clear.” - Kate “Go where you are celebrated, not tolerated.” - Kate “A lot of healing has to do with just discovering our own power through sobriety.” - Kate RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: SELF WORTH RESET MINI COURSE: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: Connect with Kate Sobriety is where self-worth begins, and healing truly takes root. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/38381720

EP 60: Reclaiming Your Power After Narcissistic Abuse with Allison Dagney 09/17/2025

EP 60: Reclaiming Your Power After Narcissistic Abuse with Allison Dagney In this episode of That's Where I'm At, Laura and guest Allison K. Dagney share their experiences of healing after covert narcissistic relationships. They explore the challenges of recognizing emotional abuse, navigating divorce, and rebuilding self-worth through therapy, journaling, and supportive communities. Together, they offer hope and practical tools for women on their own healing journeys. Allison is a best-selling memoirist and emotional abuse recovery coach who helps women rise above toxic cycles and reclaim their strength. After nearly 20 years in a covertly abusive marriage, she transformed her trauma into triumph, later sharing her journey in her books When Tears Leave Scars and Radiate and Rise. Key Topics & Timestamps Laura’s Divorce & Realization (00:04:08) Laura recounts her divorce, discovering her ex’s infidelity, and the clarity that followed about narcissistic abuse. Leaving a Narcissist: Planning & Survival (00:12:29) They discuss the importance of secret planning, survival mode, and the challenges of leaving an abusive relationship. Financial Abuse & Legal Strategies (00:20:56) Alison explains legal strategies like “status quo” to maintain financial stability during divorce. Finding Peace & Adjusting to Freedom (00:28:06) They discuss the unfamiliar feeling of peace and freedom after leaving an abusive relationship. Writing & Healing: Books and Podcasts (00:33:10) Laura describes her book’s structure, the non-linear nature of healing, and the importance of sharing personal stories. Identity Loss & Rediscovery (00:40:23) They explore how abusive relationships cause loss of identity and the process of rediscovering personal interests. Quality Over Quantity in Relationships (00:58:11) They reflect on the value of having a smaller, higher-quality support network after leaving abuse. Powerful Quotes from the Episode “I didn’t know the depths of hell that a narcissist can do to you.” - Alison “I had to choose me. I’d never chosen me, so I had to choose me.' - Laura “I cried because I was good at something I was never allowed to try, and someone was saying something nice to me.” - Laura “I totally did not know what self-love was or how to love myself.” - Alison “You have to take the first step, even if you don’t see the whole staircase.” - Laura “The key to me is boundaries, but you’re not going to get there without self-love.” - Laura “I am changing in a very good way, but that causes people to walk themselves right out of my life. I don’t need those kinds of people anymore.” - Alison “People are out there. Your tribe is out there. Unfortunately, you have to let go of the rest to find them.” - Laura RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY, RECLAIMING YOUR SANITY AND SELF-WORTH AFTER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: Connect with Allison WEBSITE: BOOKS: Your past may shape you, but it does not define your future. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/38181700

EP 59: From Surviving to Thriving: Reclaiming Your Power After Narcissistic Abuse with Dr. Tina 09/03/2025

EP 59: From Surviving to Thriving: Reclaiming Your Power After Narcissistic Abuse with Dr. Tina In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura welcomes Dr. Tina, a holistic brain health practitioner and survivor-turned-guide specializing in recovery from narcissistic abuse. Dr. Tina received her Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Rochester and completed postdoctoral fellowships in psychiatric and nutritional epidemiology at Johns Hopkins and Tufts University. Drawing on both neuroscience and medical intuition, she helps sensitive souls address root causes beyond relationships, surroundings, or symptoms. Together, Laura and Dr. Tina discuss the challenges of toxic relationships, the importance of boundaries, and the path toward self-love. Dr. Tina shares her personal journey of once feeling like a magnet for toxic people, the strategies she developed to reclaim her power, and how those discoveries shaped her 7-Step UPLIFTS Program—a powerful framework to help clients heal from narcissistic abuse and learn to love again. Throughout the conversation, she offers practical tools such as somatic practices, mindfulness, and energy protection techniques, while Laura reflects on her own healing journey and advocates for women to share their stories. Known as a dynamic speaker who inspires hope in those navigating chronic health challenges and toxic relationships, Dr. Tina brings wisdom, compassion, and encouragement to anyone ready to reclaim their voice and their power. Key Topics & Timestamps Dr. Tina’s Personal Journey & Becoming a Practitioner (00:02:33) Dr. Tina shares her experiences with toxic people and how it led her to specialize in this field. Understanding Boundaries and People-Pleasing (00:03:52) Discussion about the importance of boundaries, people-pleasing, and how these patterns attract toxic individuals. Fight, Flight, Freeze, and Trauma Release (00:07:14) The role of trauma responses and subconscious work in healing from abuse. Gray Rock Method & Emotional Detachment (00:10:16) Explanation of the gray rock method and its effectiveness in dealing with narcissists. Self-Love and Healing Journey (00:13:35) The importance of self-love, inner work, and the ripple effects of personal healing. Who Should Seek Dr. Tina’s Help (00:39:28) Description of ideal clients and readiness for healing or relationship change. Powerful Quotes from the Episode “Never too late. Why not live the life you want, right?” “People with a lot of trauma can have very, very thick heart walls. I had a lot.” “I grew up with narcissists and then I had a narcissist that destroyed my career.” “I like that idea of celebrating your personal best because I think that’s so important. It really makes me happy to think about where I was and now where I am.” “I like to tell people, don’t try hard. Try easy. Releasing subconscious barriers is the easiest and fastest way to get to where you want to go.” RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY, RECLAIMING YOUR SANITY AND SELF-WORTH AFTER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: Connect with Tina 5 Powerful Strategies to Quickly Get Grounded: Listeners might find this useful: Boundaries aren’t walls—they’re bridges back to yourself. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/38027470

EP 58: From Silence to Strength: Laura’s Journey of Healing, Boundaries, and Finding Her Voice 08/20/2025

EP 58: From Silence to Strength: Laura’s Journey of Healing, Boundaries, and Finding Her Voice In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura and her guest, Gabi Garland—her podcast producer and close friend—discuss Laura’s healing journey after divorcing a narcissistic ex-husband. They explore the challenges of setting boundaries, overcoming shame, and breaking generational cycles of trauma. Laura shares how creating the podcast has empowered her and built a supportive community for survivors. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability, self-love, and storytelling in healing, offering hope and practical advice to listeners navigating their own paths to recovery and self-discovery. Key Topics & Timestamps Celebrating Two Years & Laura’s Transformation (00:01:56) Producer reflects on Laura’s growth from fearful to empowered over the past three years. The Impact of Abuse on Self-Belief (00:09:53) How abuse rewires beliefs and the importance of doing deep inner work. Support Systems & Newfound Family (00:11:58) The importance of supportive friends and chosen family during healing. Celebrating Successes & Achievements (00:17:05) Laura’s milestones: media appearances, bestselling books, and learning to celebrate herself. Podcast Growth & External Recognition (00:22:58) Reaching top podcast rankings, media invitations, and the impact of authenticity. Accountability & Choosing to Heal (00:53:07) Encouragement to seek therapy, question inherited identities, and choose change. Generational Healing & Family Reconciliation (01:04:46) Changing generational patterns, healing with her children, and doing it for future generations. The Power of Telling Your Story (01:16:26) Encouragement to share your story, as it may be the key to someone else’s healing. The Worth of the Healing Journey (01:19:00) Reflecting on the value of the healing process and excitement for the future. Powerful Quotes from the Episode "If it feels hard, that doesn’t mean it’s wrong. The wrong people are leaving, and there’s room for the right ones." "Gaslighting isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the sick, spiraling feeling when they say, 'You’re too sensitive.'" "You’re never going to get to boundaries if you don’t love yourself." "The only person we’re protecting when we stay silent is the abuser." "There’s a woman who was me three years ago—if I don’t tell my story, she’s going to die." "It’s never too late. Please hear this—you can change." RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY, RECLAIMING YOUR SANITY AND SELF-WORTH AFTER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: Connect with Gabi Garland WEBSITE: INSTAGRAM: FACEBOOK: TIK TOK: The moment I broke my silence, I found my strength. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/37850410

EP 57: Breaking the Cycle: Healing from Abuse Through Soul Work and Self-Worth with Michal Spiegelman 08/06/2025

EP 57: Breaking the Cycle: Healing from Abuse Through Soul Work and Self-Worth with Michal Spiegelman In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura interviews Michal Spiegelman, a certified professional life coach, Reiki master, spiritual mentor, medical intuitive, and social worker, about healing from abuse and trauma, especially for women. Michal shares her journey from social work to holistic healing after her own trauma, emphasizing that true recovery involves body, soul, and spiritual work—not just talk therapy. The conversation explores practical tools like soul journaling and guided visualization, the importance of self-worth, and setting boundaries. Listeners are encouraged to seek holistic healing approaches and connect deeply with their inner selves for lasting transformation. Michal is the author of ‘Becoming Soulful: Six Keys for Profound Transformation in Your Therapy, Coaching, or Healing Practice,’ and is passionate about elevating consciousness in the world, one soul at a time. She empowers women and healing professionals alike to become soulful and shine in their personal and professional lives. Key Topics & Timestamps The Limits of Talk Therapy (00:03:17)Michal discusses the limitations of traditional therapy and the importance of integrating body and soul work. The Role of the Soul in Healing (00:05:05)Michal explains the importance of connecting with one’s soul for deep, sustainable healing and guidance. Soul Journaling and Practical Practices (00:11:50)Michal describes practical exercises for connecting with the soul, such as soul journaling and intentional rituals. Patterns from Past Trauma (00:14:10)Laura and Michal discuss how childhood patterns and beliefs influence current relationships and healing. Kindness vs. Tolerating Abuse (00:14:34)Michal highlights the common confusion between being kind and tolerating abuse, especially among spiritual women. Self-Love and Breaking Patterns (00:18:50)Laura and Michal discuss the necessity of self-love and worthiness to break cycles of abuse and attract healthier relationships. Not All Healing Means Divorce (00:21:50)Michal notes that not all clients end up divorcing; some transform their relationships through inner work. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Laura, 00:18:50, 'The biggest thing for me was learning how to love myself and that I had value.' Michal, 00:19:01, 'Until you feel that you’re worthy and until you really learn to love yourself, that’s why many women attract relationship after relationship with abuse.' Laura, 00:20:58, 'I have value, I have worth, and he was unwilling to participate in our life.' Michal, 00:22:01, 'If we get a divorce and we don’t do the inner work, then we just bring the same patterns into the next relationship.' Michal, 00:22:51, 'To know and to remember that the trauma is stored in the body.' RESOURCES: COACH WITH LAURA: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY, RECLAIMING YOUR SANITY AND SELF-WORTH AFTER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: CONNECT WITH MICHAL: WEBSITE: GET HER BOOK: Healing begins when you remember your worth. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/37649980

EP 56: Healing from Narcissistic Abuse & Toxic Relationships with Marla Bollak 07/23/2025

EP 56: Healing from Narcissistic Abuse & Toxic Relationships with Marla Bollak In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura sits down with Marla Bollak, an Interpersonal Relationship Coach and Certified Sacred Depths Coach trained in NLP, neuro-coaching, and trauma. Marla’s mission is to empower professionals to clear blocks from within themselves and from toxic relationships in the workplace or family. Her holistic approach integrates the body, mind, emotions, and energetics. She specializes in working with highly functioning, successful professionals who have read all the books, attended all the seminars, tried all the things — with some success — yet the problem remains. Together, Laura and Marla explore: Healing from narcissistic abuse and how childhood trauma affects adult relationships How trauma responses like fawning develop and why nervous system regulation is essential The power of an empathetic witness in healing How healing shifts your energy, helping you break free from toxic cycles The role of vulnerability and compassion in long-term growth and recovery Whether you’re on the path to healing or supporting someone who is, this episode offers practical tools, hope, and encouragement. Key Topics & Timestamps Marla’s Background and Healing Journey (00:02:58) Marla shares her childhood experiences, her healing journey, and her motivation for coaching others. Why People Don’t Intervene (00:08:28) Marla and Laura discuss conflict avoidance, enablers, and the challenges of getting support from others. Clients’ Experiences and Trauma Responses (00:09:24) Marla describes common issues clients face, trauma responses like fawning, and the importance of nervous system regulation. The Role of the Empathetic Witness (00:12:31) Marla explains the importance of having an empathetic witness in healing and how memories can be changed. Growth Through Healing and No Longer Attracting Bullies (00:15:49) Marla and Laura talk about using adversity for growth and how healing changes their reactions to toxic people. Energetics and No Longer Attracting Abuse (00:17:06) Marla explains how energetic shifts mean toxic people no longer affect or are attracted to you. Triggers, Healing with Family, and Vulnerability (00:17:59) Laura shares about being triggered, healing with her children, and the importance of vulnerability in family healing. Excuses vs. Reasons for Trauma Responses (00:19:09) Marla reframes “excuses” as reasons for trauma responses, encouraging self-compassion. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Laura, 00:00:34, 'Keeping secrets will make you sick, and they always come to light in the end.' Marla, 00:04:07, 'Don’t give up on yourself.' Laura, 00:07:17, 'I spent 33 years with someone who made me feel like I was the problem every time, no matter what.' Laura, 00:07:17, 'You deserve to trust your gut again. You deserve to trust you.' Marla, 00:06:20, 'People would see me being abused in full daylight and nobody stood up for me. They acted like it was normal.' Laura, 00:12:13, 'What I found was that I wasn’t being loved the way I needed to be loved.' Laura, 00:19:02, 'We’ve had a lot of good healing and it’s taken a lot of vulnerability to get there.' RESOURCES: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY, RECLAIMING YOUR SANITY AND SELF-WORTH AFTER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: COACH WITH LAURA: Connect with Marla Bollak Website: Linkedin: Healing takes vulnerability — but it leads to deeper connection. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/37463800

EP 55: Rebuilding Self-Worth After Emotional Abuse with Dr. Jill Rosenthal 07/09/2025

EP 55: Rebuilding Self-Worth After Emotional Abuse with Dr. Jill Rosenthal In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura and guest Dr. Jill Rosenthal, an award-winning Harvard and Stanford educated physician who retired after a 35+ year career and became certified as a wellness and mindset coach, share their personal journeys through trauma, loss, and healing. Dr. Rosenthal’s extensive experience and training, coupled with her own transformation from a stressed, overworked, unhealthy physician, wife, and mother into a happy, healthy, thriving coach, make her uniquely equipped to help others release unconscious thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that hold them back, so they can create their dream life. Together, Laura and Dr. Rosenthal discuss the impact of emotional and psychological abuse, the challenges of rebuilding self-worth, and the importance of processing difficult emotions. Through candid conversation, they highlight the power of storytelling, community, and self-compassion in overcoming adversity and reclaiming one’s life after trauma. Introduction & Coping Mechanisms (00:00:00) Discussion on comfort habits, dopamine hits, and how people push away uncomfortable feelings. Podcast Introduction & Guest Bio (00:00:40) Laura introduces the podcast, shares her mission, and presents Dr. Jill Rosenthal’s background and transformation. Dr. Jill’s Personal Journey (00:02:16) Dr. Jill summarizes her life challenges, including loss, illness, and her shift from medicine to coaching. Impact of Trauma & Feeling Stuck (00:03:30) Exploring how trauma, stress, and feeling stuck affect decision-making and self-worth. Coping with Trauma & Childhood Programming (00:05:41) Discussion on trauma responses, childhood experiences, and how they shape adult coping mechanisms. Effects of Emotional Abuse & Decision Paralysis (00:06:45) Laura and Dr. Jill discuss the impact of long-term emotional abuse on the ability to make decisions. Gaslighting & Narcissistic Abuse (00:09:09) Laura explains gaslighting, shares her experience, and introduces her book on healing from narcissistic abuse. Overcoming Conditioning & Taking Action (00:10:22) Dr. Jill describes the process of relearning decision-making and removing internal barriers to action. Overwhelm & Temporary Distractions (00:11:37) Conversation about overwhelm, avoidance behaviors, and why people turn to distractions for comfort. Pushing Away Feelings & the Bop Clown Analogy (00:12:20) Dr. Jill uses the bop clown metaphor to explain how suppressed feelings resurface and the importance of feeling them. Healing After Abuse & Setting Boundaries (00:14:23) Discussion on the necessity of healing emotional wounds, developing self-worth, and setting healthy boundaries. Patterns in Second Relationships (00:17:25) Exploring why unresolved trauma can affect new relationships and the importance of inner work before moving on. Feeling Safe After Abuse (00:18:54) The difference between rational understanding and truly feeling safe in new relationships. Conclusion & Resources (00:19:27) Closing remarks, Dr. Jill’s website and free gift, encouragement to connect, and final thoughts on healing and community. Powerful Quotes from the Episode Laura, 00:00:40, "I believe keeping secrets will make you sick, and that they always come to light in the end. As women, we're often told to be quiet, don't share your story, don't talk about the things we go through. It's making women sick, sad, and suicidal. We don't have to be on the other side to share our story." Dr. Jill Rosenthal, 00:02:29, "I went through a two and a half year period where I lost both my parents, managed their care from two to three thousand miles away, had foot reconstruction, my husband went into assisted living and now memory care for Alzheimer's disease, and I had breast cancer—surgery, radiation, chemotherapy. There was so much that would make your average person just run screaming from the room. But Jill 2.0 is thriving and happy despite all of the stuff that's going on. There's still stuff going on—my husband is in memory care and doesn't know who I am the last couple of weeks. I'm getting called every other day because he's hitting, kicking, and punching the staff. So I have things to deal with, but it doesn't have to take me down." Dr. Jill Rosenthal, 00:03:30, "My treatment for my cancer eventually led to a disability retirement from my 35-year medical practice. It was sad, because I loved my patients, I adored my team, I loved what I did, and it was probably killing me with stress. We're so used to taking that—the stress accumulates. We're like the frog in boiling water. Although I was not in a marriage of abuse, my first husband wasn't great to me emotionally, but not like what a lot of people are dealing with. I get what happens when you feel like you have no choices, when you feel stuck in a situation and you can't get out, and when it impacts and changes your thoughts and feelings. You just sort of go, 'Oh, woe is me.' I get that." Laura, 00:05:41, "I remember towards the end, when you're in psychological and emotional abuse, your brain—I just remember my brain was mush. It had been 33 years. My brain was mush. I couldn't make any choices because, exactly, every choice was wrong. So I did feel stuck in a lot of ways, even just making simple decisions. I remember even after leaving my marriage, talking to my therapist and her saying, 'Just say yes to some good things and see if you like them.' Because I'm like, 'I don't know.' I call myself Laura 2.0. I think it's great, but it's so true. We're not dead, so we're not done. There's still time to do what you want to do. But I just remember going, 'I don't know what's next.'" Laura, 00:09:09, "I spent 33 years with someone who made me feel like I was the problem for everything that was wrong in our lives." Laura, 00:12:14, "I need sunshine. I am a houseplant. I need oxygen and sunshine and some water." Dr. Jill Rosenthal, 00:15:49, "Unless you heal this, you're still carrying it around. It's on your shoulders, it's in big, heavy suitcases—the old ones, not the ones with the spinner wheels that you just kind of roll. Unless you heal it, it's still there, and it's still talking to you, and you're still feeling it. So you take it everywhere you go." Dr. Jill Rosenthal, 00:16:44, "If you've been in a relationship where somebody has really beaten you down like that, you have to heal the damage that's been done to your psyche, and you have to heal that feeling of self-worth. You have to learn to get better boundaries, but you have to be able to do it in a way that is constructive." Laura, 00:20:53, "I have a heart for helping women because I felt so alone after my divorce, and I don't want anybody to feel that way." Laura, 00:21:02, "This is why we do these things, right? We didn't want anybody else to feel the way that we did." RESOURCES: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY, RECLAIMING YOUR SANITY AND SELF-WORTH AFTER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: COACH WITH LAURA: FOLLOW DR JILL: WEBSITE: INSTAGRAM: FACEBOOK: GIFT FOR YOU: Put Down The Baggage: A Self-Healing Journal & Quick-Start Guide to Letting Go of What’s Holding You Back After Trauma Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/37293815

EP 54: Navigating Love After Trauma: Tips for Building Healthy Connections With Dawn Bennett 06/25/2025

EP 54: Navigating Love After Trauma: Tips for Building Healthy Connections With Dawn Bennett What are Two Things you could do to improve your relationships? Perhaps you’ve heard the way you do one thing is the way you do everything. You see, your mind doesn’t know the difference between past, present, and future. Changing how you think and feel about emotionally stressful times in your life can shift everything! Dawn works to help people find and maintain their ideal relationships. Dawn has Board Designations for Hypnosis & NLP Training & Coaching. She also is an Accredited Certified EFT Practitioner and EFT Relationship and Intimacy Coach. In this episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura and guest Dawn, a relationship and intimacy coach, discuss healing from past relationship trauma. They explore the impact of past experiences on self-worth, the importance of sharing stories, and practical healing methods like EFT and hypnosis. Dawn shares insights on recognizing unconscious beliefs and setting healthy boundaries, while Laura reflects on her own healing journey. Together, they encourage listeners to prioritize self-care, seek supportive connections, and embrace personal growth on the path to healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Transition from Massage Therapy to Emotional Healing (00:02:25) Dawn describes her journey from massage therapy to emotional release and mind-body healing techniques. The Body’s Response to Stress and Trauma (00:03:15) Discussion on how the brain and body hold onto stress and trauma, affecting physical and emotional health. Unconscious Mind and Relationship Patterns (00:04:26) Dawn explains the unconscious mind’s role in shaping relationship behaviors and reactions. Clearing Emotional Blocks and Beliefs (00:05:27) Dawn details how she uses tapping, hypnosis, and other techniques to clear limiting beliefs and emotional blocks. Adjusting to Healthy Relationships After Toxic Ones (00:06:17) Conversation about how healthy relationships can feel “boring” after chaos, and how to identify and accept positive traits. Self-Worth, Value, and Gaslighting (00:08:49) Laura discusses the impact of gaslighting and the importance of reclaiming self-worth after narcissistic abuse. Personal Story of Lost Self-Worth (00:10:08) Dawn shares her experience of losing self-worth in an abusive relationship and the journey to regain her power. Unpacking Childhood Beliefs and Patterns (00:12:45) Dawn explains how early childhood experiences shape beliefs and how hypnotherapy can gently address these patterns. Setting Goals and Somatic Therapies (00:14:43) Dawn emphasizes individualized healing journeys, the value of somatic therapies, and creating permanent change. Overcoming Fear of Being Alone (00:16:38) Discussion on helping clients who fear being alone, and how to find safety and self-worth outside of relationships. Recognizing Red Flags and Elevated Self-Value (00:18:32) Laura and Dawn discuss how self-work makes it easier to spot red flags and walk away from unhealthy relationships. Letting Go for Healthier Relationships (00:19:01) Dawn explains the importance of releasing relationships that aren’t right for both parties’ growth. RESOURCES: YOU’RE NOT CRAZY, RECLAIMING YOUR SANITY AND SELF-WORTH AFTER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: COACH WITH LAURA: FOLLOW GUEST: LINKS: WEBSITE: TIK TOK: INSTAGRAM: FACEBOOK: Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/37041060

EP 53: From Attempted Murder to Life Transformation: J Lumen's Journey from Surviving to Thriving 06/11/2025

EP 53: From Attempted Murder to Life Transformation: J Lumen's Journey from Surviving to Thriving In this powerful episode of "That's Where I'm At," host Laura sits down with J Lumen, a certified Life Transformation and Empowerment Coach who knows firsthand what it means to feel completely trapped in life. J's story takes a shocking turn when what started as feeling stuck in the wrong relationship and wrong job escalated to a terrifying night that ended with her ex-boyfriend's arrest for attempted murder—her attempted murder. This life-altering experience became the catalyst for J to stop tolerating her life and start truly living it. Through her "Unknown Bucket List Approach," J teaches others how to make "micro shifts" that lead to major life transformations. This conversation dives deep into overcoming the fear of judgment, recognizing the power of "mini moments," building what J calls a "force field of resilience," and learning to live without regret. J shares practical strategies for those feeling trapped by circumstances, guilt, or doubt, showing how to break free from the cycle of tolerance and step into a life worth celebrating. J Lumen is a certified Life Transformation and Empowerment Coach who understands intimately what it means to feel trapped in the wrong life. After years of being stuck in an unfulfilling relationship where she knew she'd say no if proposed to, and a job she hated but felt financially obligated to keep, J made the difficult decision to pay for her boyfriend to move over 1000 miles away to live with his family. Two months later, he returned unexpectedly, and the night ended with his arrest for attempted murder—her attempted murder. This traumatic wake-up call became the turning point that transformed J from someone who was merely surviving to someone truly thriving. She created "The Unknown Bucket List Approach," a methodology focused on making "micro shifts" and collecting "mini moments" to create meaningful life changes. J is passionate about helping others stop tolerating their lives and start living without regret, teaching that you don't have to wait for major life upheavals to begin creating the life you want. Her philosophy centers on the belief that "if you're not dead, you're not done" and that everyone deserves to live a life they don't regret. Key Topics Discussed: From Trapped to Taking Action: Feeling stuck in the wrong relationship and wrong job, and the difficult decision to change her circumstances The Attempted Murder Wake-Up Call: How surviving a life-threatening situation became the catalyst for complete life transformation The Unknown Bucket List Approach: J's methodology for identifying overlooked achievements and leveraging them for future growth Micro Shifts vs. Major Overhauls: Why small, intentional changes are more sustainable and effective than waiting for big life events Mini Moments That Matter: Learning to recognize and celebrate small achievements that build momentum for larger goals Overcoming Fear of Judgment: Strategies for dealing with criticism from family, friends, and colleagues when making life changes Building a Force Field of Resilience: Creating strong boundaries that protect your energy and maintain your progress The Tolerance Trap: How society teaches us to "suck it up" and why this mindset keeps us stuck in unfulfilling lives Living Without Regret: The philosophy of making decisions based on what you'll regret least, not what others expect Collecting Your Past Wins: How to look back at your life and recognize achievements you've been dismissing as insignificant The Balance of Time: Living like life is both short and long—urgent enough to take action, patient enough to build sustainably Redefining Success: Moving from external validation to internal satisfaction and authentic self-expression Supporting Others vs. Self-Care: How to maintain relationships while prioritizing your own growth and boundaries Powerful Quotes from the Episode "Life happens. And it's good or bad. It's unexpected, random, unplanned... And then we have to react. And that's what shift happens." "We don't have to wait for that shift to happen before we start living the life that we don't regret." "If you're not dead, you're not done." "It's just about living a life that you don't regret because it is yours. So you should live the one you want without fear or influence." "If you are wanting to do this and also this, then you decide which one you're going to regret the least. And you do that." "You can look back at your life and you can start seeing all the things that you've done and that you've experienced and you can basically uncover the bucket list of your life that you've been living." "Most people would not even give themselves enough credit... But those are the little mini moments that I'm talking about." "Once your way of thinking has been shifted, you'll never go back." "We're taught as adults that we have to suck it up and tolerate so many things... No, so who? That's a story." "Live like life is short and live like life is long. And it's about finding the balance in between." Resources Host Laura's Resources: YOU'RE NOT CRAZY, RECLAIMING YOUR SANITY AND SELF-WORTH AFTER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE ebook: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: COACH WITH LAURA: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: J Lumen's Resources: Website: Free Life Assessment: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: Connect with the Show Follow the Podcast: Host: Laura, podcast host and author focused on healing from narcissistic abuse Mission: Sharing stories with women in the middle of the mess, showing up bravely as they heal Community: Creating space for women to learn, grow, and heal together through shared experiences Loved this episode? J's story proves that our worst moments can become the catalyst for our greatest transformations. Her journey from feeling trapped and tolerating life to creating a methodology that helps others thrive shows that "shift happens"—and we don't have to wait for tragedy to start living the life we deserve. Sometimes the most powerful changes begin with the smallest shifts, and every mini moment matters in building the life you won't regret. Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/36900295

From Lost to Thriving 06/04/2025

From Lost to Thriving Welcome back to That’s Where I’m At! In the last two episodes, we talked about healing after narcissistic abuse, rebuilding trust in yourself, and setting boundaries. Today, we’re going even deeper as we focus on reclaiming your identity, learning to dream again, and moving from surviving to truly thriving. If you’ve been feeling stuck, wondering who you are now, or questioning if you even deserve a joyful future, this episode is for you. Laura breaks down three essential healing truths:💥 You are not meant to go back to who you were before the abuse—you are meant to move forward and make the best parts of yourself even stronger.💥 It's never too late to dream again—your past doesn’t define your future, and your dreams are still possible.💥 Thriving doesn’t mean being happy all the time; it’s about feeling free and having the ability to navigate life with resilience and self-trust. What You’ll Learn:✨ How to reconnect with the person you are today and start rebuilding your identity✨ Why it’s never too late to dream, and how to start dreaming again✨ The difference between surviving and thriving, and how to take the next step toward a life that excites you Resources & Support:💫 Ready to take your healing journey deeper? Join Laura’s Midlife Reset Masterclass—a 10-week program focused on rebuilding your self-worth, setting boundaries, rediscovering your dreams, and creating a fulfilling life.👉 💜 Need support on your healing journey? Book your No More Sleepless Nights discovery call.👉 Let’s Connect:📸 Instagram:🌐 Website:📚 Read Laura’s bestselling book: Married to a "Nice" Guy👉 If this episode resonated with you...Please rate, review, and share! Every listen helps another woman feel less alone on her journey. 💜 Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/36804325

EP 52: It's Never Too Late: Finding Your Voice with Lori Daneke 05/28/2025

EP 52: It's Never Too Late: Finding Your Voice with Lori Daneke In this inspiring episode of "That's Where I'm At" podcast, host Laura welcomes Lori Daneke, a communication and relationship coach who discovered her calling later in life. Lori shares her powerful journey from being a people-pleaser trapped in a silent, emotionally abusive marriage to becoming an empowered coach helping others find their authentic selves. What started as a quest to improve her golf game led to a complete life transformation at age 58. Through candid conversation, Lori explains how 90% of our thoughts aren't our own, stemming from our imprint years (ages 0-7), and how breakthrough work can help us release the emotional baggage we've been carrying. Her story demonstrates that it's truly never too late to make changes, use your voice, and ask for what you want. Lori Daneke is a communication and relationship coach with master certifications in NLP, TLT, Hypnotherapy, Reiki Level 3, and Huna, as well as Advanced Trauma and Addiction training. With over 300 hours of training and having coached over 100 clients, she specializes in supporting women in creating the life they desire and deserve while embracing their authentic selves. Lori's journey into coaching began unexpectedly at age 58 when seeking to improve her golf game led to discovering that golf and life are direct reflections of each other. She is a proud grandmother of three (with another grandchild on the way) and finds her happy places playing with her grandchildren and going to the beach. Key Topics Discussed: The Connection Between Golf and Life: How Lori's quest to improve her golf game revealed deeper life patterns The Four Voices in Our Head: Understanding the inner child, inner critic, inner ego, and intuition People-Pleasing Patterns: The dangers of living according to others' expectations rather than your authentic self Silent Abuse: Recognizing emotional abuse through withholding communication and attention The 90% Rule: How most of our thoughts come from our imprint years (ages 0-7) rather than our true selves Breakthrough Process: Lori's 10-step method for uncovering root causes and aligning conscious and unconscious minds Releasing Emotional Baggage: Using the analogy of travel luggage to understand letting go of past trauma Finding Your Purpose: How it's never too late to discover your authentic calling and voice Powerful Quotes from the Episode "It'd be grateful for what you have experienced, take the learnings from it, so you can have even more gratitude and love yourself. Because truly, it's never too late to make choices and use your voice and ask for what you want." "In my marriage, I couldn't do that. I wasn't allowed. It was very transactional. And when I asked for what I needed or what I wanted, I got crickets. So that was the abuse that I tolerated. And I tolerated it is silence." "I discovered that not only that golf and life are direct reflections of each other. So what was going on in my golf game was going on in my life. I was angry, frustrated, felt like I was isolated and alone." "90% of our thoughts are not our own. They come from our imprint years or zero to seven... we learned what we learned from the people from the people that are closest to us." "I was the definition of a people pleaser. I did everything that everybody thought I was supposed to do and everybody told me what I was supposed to do." "You can't help other people unless you help yourself first... because you haven't released the blocks around what is actually holding you back from getting what you want." "Everything that happens to us, good, bad, or ugly, is there to teach us a lesson. And the lessons we learn is something positive and it's going forward." "It's never too late to discover that voice and that authentic you, your true purpose in life and what you were put on this planet to do." RESOURCES: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: BOOKS & JOURNALS: RESOURCES FOR YOUR HEALING: FOLLOW LORI: EMAIL: FACEBOOK: Loved this episode? Connect with Lori through her Facebook pages or email to learn more about her breakthrough coaching process. Don't forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to help others find these stories of hope and healing! Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/36710385

Rebuilding Self-Worth, Knowing Your Values & Setting Boundaries 05/21/2025

EP 51: Finding Freedom: Healing the Hurt Beneath Emotional Eating with Claudia Braun 05/14/2025

EP 51: Finding Freedom: Healing the Hurt Beneath Emotional Eating with Claudia Braun In this powerful episode host Laura welcomes Claudia Braun, a holistic mindset and lifestyle coach certified in Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). Claudia opens up about her personal journey with emotional eating that began at age 10 when she discovered food could temporarily ease emotional pain. She shares how this coping mechanism followed her through adolescence, college, and into adulthood, creating a vicious cycle of stress eating and dieting. The conversation explores how our relationship with food often masks deeper emotional needs and how the cultural messaging around dieting affects women. Claudia offers practical insights on breaking free from emotional eating patterns by addressing the root emotional causes, embracing authenticity, and learning to own both your "yes" and your "no" instead of living to please others. Claudia Braun is a longtime Chicago resident, certified in Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and works as a holistic mindset and lifestyle coach. With 30 years of yoga practice, she brings a wealth of experience to her approach to healing. Claudia has been a keynote speaker at several in-person women's events, hosted the Healing Summit, and been featured on the Holistic Monitor podcast. Drawing from her own journey of healing her relationship with food and emotional eating, Claudia now helps others break free from stress eating patterns and people-pleasing behaviors to live more authentically. She is also a dog mom to Jason, an avid gardener, and enjoys working with clay. Key Topics Discussed: Emotional Eating as a Coping Mechanism: How food becomes a "companion" to manage stress and difficult emotions The Vicious Cycle of Dieting: Why traditional dieting approaches often fail to address the emotional roots of eating habits People-Pleasing and Boundaries: The connection between people-pleasing, lack of boundaries, and using food for comfort Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT/Tapping): How this approach helps release trapped emotions in the subconscious mind Authentic Living: The importance of being true to yourself rather than living based on others' expectations Owning Your Yes and No: Practical strategies for honoring your own needs and setting boundaries Healing Through Vulnerability: The power of acknowledging and expressing difficult emotions rather than suppressing them Cultural Conditioning Around Food: How societal and family messages about food and dieting affect our relationship with eating Powerful Quotes from the Episode "One of the things that I'd like to share with y'all is that I have these three strategies to own your yes and own your no. And part of that is kind of getting in touch with what do we actually feel." "I didn't know my yes. I didn't know my no. I knew other people's yes and other people's no. I was a master people pleaser." "It brings me back to that story with my boyfriend's therapist... I was saying to him, 'I don't know how to make my parents happy and my boyfriend happy at the same time.' And he looks at me and I could see that there was something about that statement I made that was really off... I'm not even in the equation." "You can't put a happy face in an empty tank." "I give people permission to say what they don't want to say." "When I work with clients, I have them write a letter to food, like say goodbye to your best friend. It is your best friend. It's been your best friend." "The only way out is through." "Can you imagine what life would be like if you were authentically you instead of constantly living life based on everyone else's judgments and expectations of you?" RESOURCES: MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: PRIVATE FACEBOOK SUPPORT GROUP: FOLLOW THE PODCAST: BOOKS & JOURNALS: RESOURCES FOR YOUR HEALING: FOLLOW CLAUDIA: WEBSITE: 3 strategies to Own Your YES & Your NO (without the guilt, that’s held you back before) Podcast Produced and edited by the team at Contact us for expert podcast production and support. /episode/index/show/72818945-8426-4e7f-9820-17f085bf7c41/id/36466810

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