Have you ever worked for a fear-based leader, a toxic bully boss, or someone in authority who used intimidation and harassment instead of emotional maturity? In today’s eye-opening conversation, Kate Lowry, CEO Coach and Author of "Unbreakable: How to Survive Under Fear Based Leaders" breaks down why so many leaders behave more like emotionally reactive children than competent adults — and how their lack of emotional intelligence can create abusive, chaotic workplaces. Kate explains the...

After a 25-year marriage ended suddenly, emotional-wellbeing expert and artist Elizabeth Jane turned heartbreak into a mission: to help others climb out of the quicksand of grief, reclaim self-worth, and rebuild a full life. In this episode Elizabeth shares practical, bite-sized tools that helped her move from shock → survival → reinvention — plus mindset shifts every woman leaving a long relationship needs to hear. In this episode we cover: • Quick presence tools to stop the “should’v...

In this powerful episode, Lizzie and Deana speak with Tracy DeTomasi, CEO of Callisto, a groundbreaking nonprofit using secure technology to connect survivors of serial predators—without forcing them to go public. Tracy shares how the Callisto Vault platform empowers survivors to safely report, match with others harmed by the same perpetrator, and make informed choices about next steps. The conversation dives deep into the psychology of grooming, the myths around “risk reduction,” and how shi...

In this raw & honest episode, Lizzie opens up about her courageous journey of leaving a toxic relationship and rebuilding her life from the ground up. She shares how healing isn't a single dramatic moment, it's a process that unfolds in stages, with every step leading toward self-discovery and empowerment. From surviving emotional turmoil to stepping into a season of reinvention, Lizzie reflects on the power of community support, the importance of self care, and how she's transformi...

In this deeply moving and insightful episode, relationship and self-love coach Jonathan Aslay shares his powerful journey of healing after the tragic loss of his son. Through vulnerability and wisdom, Jonathan explores how grief can become a catalyst for growth, why self-worth is non-negotiable in midlife, and how to build meaningful, lasting relationships rooted in authenticity—not just chemistry. Whether you're navigating midlife dating, recovering from emotional loss, or seeking deeper sel...

In this inspiring episode, Deborah Weed opens up about her powerful transformation—from a high-achieving corporate career to becoming the founder of the Self-Worth Initiative and the Quills Up Movement. 💫 After a life-altering health crisis, Deborah began to reframe her understanding of value, moving from external validation to embracing her intrinsic worth. She shares how a simple 1943 copper penny sparked a personal revolution, leading her to create tools, stories, and a musical called Pais...

In this powerful episode, Lizzie and Deana dive deep into the roots of codependency, how it’s shaped by childhood trauma, and why it often leads to low self-esteem and toxic relationship patterns. Through raw, relatable stories and hard-earned insights, they unpack how codependency shows up in everyday life — from constantly putting others first to struggling with setting boundaries. You’ll learn why self-care isn’t selfish, how to stop minimizing harmful behavior, and the importance of build...

🎙️ Am I the Toxic One? | Surviving Toxic Relationships with Lizzie & Deana Are you the toxic one... and don’t even know it? In this eye-opening episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie and Deana turn the mirror inward to explore a question many avoid: Could we be contributing to the toxicity in our relationships? Together, they unpack the subtle but critical differences between toxic behaviors and trauma responses, and how unresolved trauma might be driving harmful patterns. This ...

In this powerful and compassionate episode, Lizzie and Deana dive deep into the emotional complexities of leaving toxic relationships. They explore the internal battles many face—fear, guilt, and trauma bonds—and how these emotions can make leaving feel even more difficult than staying. Through real talk and heartfelt insights, they shed light on: Why the fear of the unknown often feels safer than taking the leap,How guilt and shame can sabotage healing,And most importantly, the critical role...

In this deeply moving episode, Avonley Lightstone, Author of "Strength of Scars", opens up about her powerful journey from unimaginable loss to unshakable faith. After losing her mother at 3 years old in a tragic fire and enduring years of emotional and physical abuse in her adoptive home, Avonley shares how finding God became a turning point in her path to healing. Through candid conversation, she explores the importance of not internalizing trauma, the personal nature of forgiveness, and ho...

In this powerful episode, Hillary Powers, the voice of Sally in the Peanuts cartoons, shares her remarkable journey from childhood trauma and addiction to over 40 years of sobriety, healing, and faith. With raw honesty and deep insight, Hillary reflects on her chaotic upbringing, the path to recovery, and how faith, surrender, and community helped her reclaim her life. She dives into the importance of addressing childhood wounds, the role of empathy and forgiveness, and why we are not defined...

🧠 In this heartfelt episode, Lizzie and Deana sit down with Jacintha Field—family and child counselor, art therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids. Jacintha shares her inspiring personal journey from surviving domestic violence to empowering families through emotional healing. 🌱 Learn how she’s on a mission to help 100,000 children by 2027, and discover powerful tools to help your child navigate big feelings. From the emotional impact of separation to the healing power of play, Jacintha br...

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Lizzie and Deana sit down with Julie Barth—trauma survivor, author, special needs mom, and passionate financial advocate for women—to share her extraordinary journey of survival, resilience, and transformation. From losing her husband to cancer, to raising a special needs child on her own, to surviving a narcissistically abusive second marriage, Julie has faced unimaginable challenges. But instead of staying silent, she’s using her story to shine a ...

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Dr. Zoe dives into the often misunderstood world of complex shame—how it silently shapes our relationships, distorts our identity, and hinders our ability to experience healthy love. Sharing her own transformative journey, Dr. Zoe reveals the hidden patterns of shame, including codependency, hiding behaviors, and fear of vulnerability, and offers practical guidance to start the process of healing. This episode is a must-watch for anyone seeki...

What happens when the person you vowed to spend your life with turns out to be living a double life — not in secret affairs, but in hidden abuse? In this eye-opening episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, we’re joined by Mia Hanks — a brave survivor who spent 29 years married to a covert narcissist. Behind closed doors, Mia endured years of emotional manipulation and financial control, slowly losing her sense of identity, security, and voice. But today, she’s no longer surviving — she’s th...

What happens when pain meets purpose? Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Samia Young, a powerhouse of resilience, faith, and redemption. Once a foster youth who endured unspeakable abuse, a toxic marriage, and time in jail, Samia’s life seemed destined for tragedy. But her story didn't end there. In this raw and inspiring episode, Samia opens up about the moment she encountered the gospel, how it transformed her life, and the incredible journey that followed — from rock bottom to ...

In this candid and powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Lizzie and Deana are joined by therapist and author Dr. Becky Whetstone to unpack the real dynamics behind relationship breakdowns, nagging, resentment, and emotional maturity. Together, they explore the five stages of a deteriorating marriage, the misunderstood "nagging wife" stereotype, and how poor responsiveness can lead to deep emotional wounds. They also dive into critical conversations around: Ble...

In this powerful Talk It Out Tuesday episode, Lizzie and Deana talk openly about the emotional toll of public betrayal, using the viral Andy Byron affair as a lens to explore the very personal pain of infidelity. Together, they unpack their own experiences, share practical advice for those feeling triggered, and challenge harmful myths about why people cheat. Whether you've been betrayed, re-traumatized by recent headlines, or are walking with someone through this pain—you are not alone...

In this conversation, Lizzie and Deana speak with Lisa Johnson, a high conflict divorce strategist and advocate, about the complexities of navigating high conflict divorces and legal abuse. Lisa shares her personal journey from being a victim to becoming an advocate for others, emphasizing the importance of courtroom etiquette, emotional support, and strategic oversight in legal battles. The discussion also covers the role of fathers, the impact of parental alienation, and identifying red fla...

In this episode, Lizzie and Deana delve into the complexities of manipulation, focusing on gaslighting, blame shifting, and minimizing. They share personal stories and insights on how these tactics can distort reality and erode emotional safety. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing red flags in relationships and offers practical tips for recovery and healthy communication. Takeaways Gaslighting is a manipulative tactic that makes you doubt your memory and perception.Bla...