That's Where I'm At

In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura interviews Dr. Nadine Macaluso (Dr. Nae), the real-life inspiration behind Naomi Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street. After surviving a turbulent eight-year marriage to Jordan Belfort marked by abuse, greed, trauma bonding, and coercive control, Dr. Nae transformed her own healing journey into a mission to help others reclaim their lives.
Following her experiences, Dr. Nae returned to school at age 39, earning a Master's degree in counseling and a Ph.D. in somatic psychotherapy, along with advanced postdoctoral training in the Neuro-Affective Relational Model (NARM). Today, she is a licensed therapist specializing in trauma recovery, helping clients reconnect with their authentic selves, build resilience, and experience post-traumatic growth.
In this powerful conversation, Dr. Nae shares her personal story of surviving an abusive relationship, the loss of identity that often accompanies coercive control, and the complex reality of trauma bonds. She also offers practical guidance on leaving safely, healing the nervous system, and cultivating self-compassion throughout the recovery process. Together, Laura and Dr. Nae explore how education, community, and inner healing can empower survivors to move beyond trauma and create lives rooted in confidence, agency, and hope.
 
Key Topics & Timestamps
Guest Introduction: Doctor Nadine Macaluso (00:01:25) Laura introduces Doctor Nadine Macaluso (Doctor Nae), the real-life inspiration for Naomi Belfort in "The Wolf of Wall Street."
The Beginning of the Relationship (00:02:53) Doctor Nae recounts how she met Jordan Belfort, the intense pursuit, and the extreme love bombing that quickly followed.
Coercion into Marriage (00:07:49) Doctor Nae explains she didn't want to get married but was coerced with ultimatums, which she rationalized as intense love.
Societal Pressures on Women (00:09:15) The discussion covers how societal messages in the 80s and 90s encouraged women to self-abandon for a "prince charming."
The Importance of Setting Boundaries (00:11:36) Doctor Nae explains that setting a boundary with a pathological person will reveal their true nature through rage and resistance.
Why Women Don't Leave (00:14:13) The conversation explores the complexities of trauma bonds, coercive control, and the intense fear that prevents women from leaving abusive relationships.
Financial and Emotional Dependency (00:16:02) Doctor Nae discusses how abusers create financial and emotional dependency to maintain control, a key component of the trauma bond.
Leaving Without a Trauma Bond (00:18:39) Doctor Nae explains she was "done" when she left and didn't experience a strong trauma bond, largely because his arrest shifted the power dynamic.
Deciding to Share Her Story (00:21:23) Doctor Nae shares that she never intended to go public until her ex-husband wrote a book that became a movie.
Becoming a Therapist (00:22:23) Inspired by how therapy saved her, Doctor Nae returned to school at 39 to become a therapist and help others.
Supporting a Friend in a Trauma Bond (00:25:47) Doctor Nae advises friends to listen without judgment and keep communication open, asking if their friend wants to be heard, helped, or held.
The Unsafe Way to Leave (00:26:53) Doctor Nae clarifies the movie's depiction of her divorce announcement, explaining the real, dangerous events that unfolded after she confronted him.
The Safe Way to Leave (00:29:58) Doctor Nae outlines a strategic, secret plan for leaving an abuser, including gathering documents and finding a trauma-informed therapist.
Somatic Psychotherapy and Healing (00:31:18) The discussion covers how trauma creates a biochemical addiction and how somatic work helps calm the nervous system and heal the body.
The Loss of Self (00:34:41) Doctor Nae explains that losing one's identity is the number one symptom of a trauma bond, as you must abandon yourself.
Remodeling Your Life After Abuse (00:36:41) Instead of rebuilding, Doctor Nae suggests women are "remodeling" their lives by rediscovering their strengths and authentic selves without pressure.
Childhood and Vulnerability to Abuse (00:40:21) Doctor Nae dispels the myth that only those from abusive homes fall for predators, stating anyone can be a victim.
First Steps After Realization (00:42:52) Doctor Nae advises women who realize they're in a toxic relationship to practice self-compassion and stabilize with dedicated self-care.
From Surviving to Thriving (00:45:30) Doctor Nae discusses post-traumatic growth, where survivors can become stronger, have healthier relationships, and find their purpose after abuse.
Post-Separation Abuse (00:48:00) The conversation highlights the reality of post-separation abuse through the court system and the importance of education and a good attorney.
Breaking the Shame by Speaking Out (00:50:08) Doctor Nae emphasizes that sharing stories, as seen with some celebrities, is how the silence and shame around abuse are broken.
Where to Find Doctor Nae (00:52:07) Doctor Nae shares her website and social media handles where listeners can find free resources, her community, and therapy information.
 
Powerful Quotes from the Episode
Doctor Nadine, 'In trauma bonds, we're really objects to have, not people to love.'
Doctor Nadine, 'Slowly but surely, I lost my sense of self.'
Doctor Nadine, 'Our torturer is our soother.'
Doctor Nadine, 'When you've been in a trauma bond, you believe that self-care is selfish.'
Doctor Nadine, 'It's not just about surviving it; it's like, "Okay, I survived this incredibly challenging experience. Now what do I want? What do I need? Who do I want to become?"'
 
RESOURCES:
FOLLOW THE PODCAST: https://www.instagram.com/thatswhereimatpodcast/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thatswhereimatpodcast/
COACH WITH LAURA: https://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.com/coachwithlaura
MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: SHOP HERE
JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: https://www.skool.com/nice-guy-recovery-community-1517
 
FOLLOW NADINE: 
WEBSITE: https://drnae.com/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrnadine/
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/drnaelmft
TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@drnaelmft
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealDrNadine
X: https://x.com/therealdrnadine
BOOK: https://heal.drnae.com/giveaway-book-a?utm_campaign=bf&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_keyword=book
COURSE: https://course.drnae.com/trauma-bond-recovery-course-e?utm_keyword=tbrc30
 
"Healing begins when you stop asking who you were before the trauma and start discovering who you can become after it."
 
Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com
Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura interviews Amy Duggar King, known from 19 Kids and Counting. Amy is a wife and mother who is determined to break the chains and cycles of abuse so her son, Dax, can have a healthier and happier future. Drawing from her own lived experiences, Amy openly shares her journey of healing, setting boundaries, and finding the courage to speak her truth.
Together, Laura and Amy discuss growing up in a controlling, abusive family environment shaped by high-control religion and narcissistic dynamics. Amy opens up about confronting family scandals, breaking free from toxic cycles, and learning how to protect her peace and prioritize her healing. Throughout the conversation, both women emphasize how sharing stories can break shame, foster healing, and inspire others who may be navigating similar struggles.
 
Key Topics & Timestamps
Podcast Introduction (00:00:42) Host Laura introduces the podcast's mission to share stories of healing from narcissistic abuse and toxic family dynamics.
Guest Introduction: Amy Duggar King (00:01:40) Laura welcomes guest Amy Duggar King, a wife, mom, and cycle breaker known from the show "19 Kids and Counting."
The Catalyst for Speaking Out (00:03:10) Amy explains that her grandmother's passing was the catalyst for seeing the family's unhealthy, controlling behavior and deciding to speak out.
Breaking the Shame Cycle (00:04:32) Laura and Amy discuss how speaking out breaks the shame associated with abuse and helps others feel less alone.
Relating to Amy's Story Beyond TV (00:05:49) Amy's story of narcissistic abuse resonates with many, regardless of the TV show fame, because it's a common experience.
The Pressure to Forgive and Forget (00:07:40) Laura and Amy discuss the toxic pressure from evangelical backgrounds to simply "forgive and move on" without addressing the abuse.
Navigating Family Contact and Boundaries (00:09:06) Amy shares that she is only in contact with her cousin Jill, as setting boundaries caused most family to disappear.
Understanding Jim Bob's Controlling Nature (00:10:41) Amy discusses how her uncle Jim Bob's abusive upbringing likely led to his desire for control promised by IBLP.
Unspoken Family Trauma (00:13:45) Amy explains she never questioned her family's dynamics growing up, as asking questions was seen as a "heart issue."
High-Control Religion and Narcissism (00:15:42) The hosts discuss how high-control religious environments can be breeding grounds for narcissists who hide behind the cross.
The Consequences of Questioning the System (00:18:10) Amy explains how questioning the family system leads to rejection, while her cousin Jill navigates it with strategic boundaries.
The "Crazy" Nickname and Public Perception (00:21:16) Amy discusses being labeled "crazy" on the show for not conforming and how she was edited for a specific narrative.
Surviving by Playing a Part (00:22:38) Amy shares how she had to hide her true self, even making up stories based on movie plots to survive.
Discovering Family Scandals (00:24:14) Amy describes the earth-shattering experience of learning about her family's scandals on national television along with the public.
Grieving the Living and What Could Have Been (00:26:09) Amy talks about the painful process of grieving living family members, especially her father, and the relationships she never had.
The Pain and Healing of Writing a Book (00:28:46) Writing and narrating her book forced Amy to relive her trauma, which was painful but also a part of healing.
Childhood Patterns and Trauma Bonds (00:30:05) The hosts discuss how childhood abuse patterns and trauma bonds can normalize toxic behavior and influence future relationships.
Breaking the Cycle for the Next Generation (00:32:33) Amy and her mom are healing their inner children by creating a safe, peaceful, and joyful home for Amy's son.
The Rules of High-Control Religion (00:35:57) Amy discusses the controlling rules she faced, from clothing colors and hairstyles to being shamed for her appearance.
Arbitrary Rules and Shifting Goalposts (00:42:21) Amy explains how family rules were arbitrary and would change on a whim, a classic tactic in high-control environments.
Embracing the "Crazy" Label (00:45:45) Amy shares how she eventually embraced the "crazy" label given to her, deciding to live freely and be adventurous.
Confronting Josh Duggar (00:46:58) Amy recounts the moment she decided to confront her cousin Josh about his actions after feeling deceived by her family.
The Aftermath and Lack of Therapy (00:51:20) Amy explains that IBLP teachings discourage outside therapy, so she believes most of the girls involved never received proper help.
What's Next for Amy (00:52:39) Amy shares her plans to write a self-help book and potentially start a podcast with her husband to help others.
Podcast Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts (00:54:36) Laura and Amy conclude by encouraging listeners to question unhealthy dynamics and run from relationships that require walking on eggshells.
 
Powerful Quotes from the Episode
Amy, "It wasn't my fault. I didn't do anything to deserve this."
Amy, "I cannot stand the people that hide behind the cross."
Amy, "I feel like a part of me, my inner child, is healing and so is my mom's."
Amy, "I literally felt like I was living in The Truman Show. What is my reality? What is even real?"
Amy, "Ask yourself if you want to keep walking on eggshells the rest of your life."
 
RESOURCES:
FOLLOW THE PODCAST: https://www.instagram.com/thatswhereimatpodcast/
COACH WITH LAURA: https://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.com/coachwithlaura
MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: SHOP HERE
JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: https://www.skool.com/nice-guy-recovery-community-1517
FOLLOW AMY:
WEBSITE: Website: https://amyduggarking.com/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/amyrachelleking/
BOOK: Holy Disruptor: https://a.co/d/002mJZvi
 
"A healed life begins the moment you stop protecting toxic systems and start protecting yourself."
 
Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com
Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this powerful episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura welcomes Lynn Stroud, a paralegal, advocate, and survivor of reproductive coercion, sexual assault, domestic violence, and post-separation abuse. Through both her lived experience and advocacy work, Lynn is passionate about helping others recognize the many forms of abuse that often go unseen and misunderstood. She hopes to provide a roadmap for listeners to become more trauma-informed while encouraging survivors to prioritize their safety, self-respect, and financial autonomy.
Lynn shares her deeply personal experiences with reproductive coercion, narcissistic abuse, financial abuse, and the failures of the family court system. Together, Laura and Lynn discuss the reality that abuse extends far beyond physical violence, the subtle warning signs many survivors miss, and the challenges of navigating life after leaving an abusive relationship. With honesty, insight, and compassion, Lynn's story serves as both a warning and a source of hope for survivors working to reclaim their lives and move toward healing.
 
Key Topics & Timestamps
Podcast Introduction (00:00:31) Host Laura introduces the podcast's mission to share women's stories of struggle and healing to combat loneliness and secrecy.
Trigger Warning (01:22) A brief warning is given that the episode's content may be triggering for some listeners due to its sensitive nature.
Guest Introduction: Lynn (01:30) Lynn, a survivor of various forms of abuse and a paralegal advocate, is introduced to the show.
Why Lynn Shares Her Story (02:19) Lynn explains she began sharing her story to help other women identify red flags and feel less alone in their experiences.
The Power of Naming Abuse (03:27 The host and Lynn discuss how naming abuse, like narcissistic or emotional abuse, provides validation and reduces shame for survivors.
Defining Reproductive Coercion (07:02) Lynn defines reproductive coercion as behavior intended to control reproductive health, including birth control sabotage and pregnancy pressure.
First Experience with Reproductive Coercion (09:11) At 20, Lynn's older boyfriend intentionally got her pregnant after her birth control patch failed, pressuring her to marry him.
Escalation of Abuse and Stalking (18:06) After the abortion, the ex-boyfriend's abuse intensified, leading to a cycle of breakups, stalking, and a terrifying home break-in.
Reproductive Coercion in Marriage (24:21) Lynn's ex-husband exhibited addictive behaviors and emotionally withdrew during their struggles with infertility and miscarriages, creating another form of coercion.
Pressure for a Male Heir (30:58) Two weeks postpartum, Lynn's ex-husband began pressuring her to get pregnant again, specifically to have a son.
The Breaking Point (34:07) The marriage ended after her ex-husband threatened her while she was holding their 11-month-old baby, leading to their separation.
Post-Separation and Financial Abuse (39:09) After separating, Lynn faced financial abuse when her ex-husband cut off her access to money, leaving her unable to pay bills.
Failures of the Family Court System (40:19 Lynn describes being treated poorly by judges and the court system, which failed to protect her and her child.
The Dangers of the "Trad Wife" Trend (49:06) The conversation touches on the dangers of traditional gender roles that can leave women financially dependent and trapped in abusive situations.
Parental Alienation and Men's Rights Groups (50:46) Lynn discusses how men's rights groups have influenced family court, often discrediting protective mothers by accusing them of parental alienation.
How to Find Lynn (53:47) Lynn shares her social media handles on LinkedIn and Instagram for listeners who wish to connect with her.
 
Powerful Quotes from the Episode
Lynn, 'I felt like if I could call out some of the behavior and red flags, it could possibly help other survivors realize they're in danger and try to get away from their abuser.'
Lynn, 'He saw an opportunity to control me, to trap me into a relationship with him. He thought that once he got me pregnant, I would have the baby, and that would hold control over me and I would never leave.'
Lynn, 'I eventually felt like I was made to feel like I was failing as a spouse and as a woman.'
Lynn, 'You cannot change someone that doesn't want to change. You could legitimately lose yourself and your life in the process. It's not worth it.'
Lynn, 'I want women out there to know that they are not alone.'
 
RESOURCES:
FOLLOW THE PODCAST: https://www.instagram.com/thatswhereimatpodcast/
COACH WITH LAURA: https://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.com/coachwithlaura
MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: SHOP HERE
JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: https://www.skool.com/nice-guy-recovery-community-1517
FOLLOW LYNN:
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/knowledge_exch_abuse_survivors
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-s-16878b6/
 
"Abuse isn't always bruises you can see — sometimes it's control that slowly steals your safety, voice, and freedom."
 
Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com
Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura interviews Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW, a Columbia University-trained psychotherapist, host of Your Traitor Within, and emerging author dedicated to helping people heal from narcissistic abuse, trauma, grief, and self-sabotage. Drawing from both four decades of professional expertise and her own personal experiences navigating difficult relationships, Jessica has become a sought-after mental health expert, advocate, and voice for healing and self-discovery. Through her podcast, upcoming book Traitor Within, and her Your Traitor Within Journal featuring 365 healing prompts, Jessica helps people uncover and heal the inner voice shaped by trauma that keeps them stuck in destructive patterns.
Despite her professional background, Jessica survived three toxic marriages before finding a healthy fourth. In this conversation, she explains her concept of the "traitor within" — an inner voice formed through childhood wounds and painful experiences that can lead to self-betrayal in relationships. Together, Laura and Jessica discuss gaslighting, betrayal blindness, trauma bonds, and the deep grief that comes with leaving abuse. Jessica emphasizes that healing requires self-awareness, proper support, and reconnecting with one's authentic identity, offering hope that it is never too late to break harmful cycles and create healthier relationships.
 
Key Topics & Timestamps
Guest Introduction: Jessica Ann Pressler (00:01:20)  Laura introduces her guest, Jessica Ann Pressler, a psychotherapist and author who experienced three toxic marriages.
Jessica's Professional and Personal Journey (00:04:03) Jessica discusses her career as a psychotherapist while simultaneously navigating a series of dysfunctional relationships and four marriages.
Childhood Roots of Relationship Patterns (00:07:04) Jessica explains how her childhood, marked by narcissism and dysfunction, taught her to ignore bad behavior to feel safe.
Betrayal Blindness and Trauma Bonds (00:10:07) The conversation covers betrayal blindness, trauma bonds, and the cognitive dissonance that keeps people in abusive relationships.
The Slow Progression of Abuse (00:14:22) Jessica and Laura discuss how psychological abuse happens slowly over time, making it difficult to recognize.
The Pain of Gaslighting and Blame (00:16:45) Jessica shares her experience with suicidal ideation due to the intense pain of being blamed for relationship problems.
Finding the Right (and Wrong) Therapist (00:19:08) The importance of finding a trauma-informed therapist is discussed, highlighting how the wrong therapist can reinforce the abuser's narrative.
The Narcissist's Public Persona (00:21:53) They discuss how covert narcissists present a charming public image while being abusive behind closed doors.
The "Traitor Within" Concept Explained (00:24:58) Jessica introduces her concept of the "traitor within," a coping mechanism learned in childhood to feel safe.
Abandoning Yourself to Avoid Abandonment (00:31:26) Jessica explains how the "traitor within" prioritizes avoiding abandonment at any cost, even if it means abandoning yourself.
Losing Your Identity in a Toxic Relationship (00:33:46) The speakers discuss being so hyper-focused on the toxic partner that you lose your own sense of self and identity.
Grieving the End of a Relationship (00:36:24) Jessica explains the grief that comes with ending a relationship, even a toxic one, including grieving lost time.
The Importance of Taking Time to Heal (00:38:00) Jessica shares how she finally took two years between relationships to do the work and heal from her patterns.
Weaponizing Vulnerability (00:41:03) The speakers discuss the cruelty of an abusive partner using your vulnerabilities and personal secrets against you.
Jessica's Current Work and Resources (00:45:14) Jessica details her current projects, including her book, podcast, and blogs, which provide free educational resources for others.
Finding Hope and Authenticity After Abuse (00:48:04) Jessica concludes by sharing that it's never too late to find happiness and live an authentic life.
 
Powerful Quotes from the Episode
Jessica, 'If a person like me who's trained and helping other people could have repetitive dysfunctional behavior, I kept going from one toxic, narcissistic relationship to another and not recognizing it when I'm in it.'.
Jessica, 'I didn't see a way out. I was in so much pain for feeling at fault for ruining a relationship.'.
Jessica 'I was terrified to be abandoned. It didn't matter how poorly they may have treated me, because feeling abandoned was worse than being abused.'.
Jessica, 'Every time that she was trying to help me not be abandoned, I was abandoning myself.'.
Jessica, 'It's never too late. I was 50-something when I came to California, which was a dream. You don't have to find a man to be whole.'.
 
RESOURCES:
COACH WITH LAURA: https://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.com/coachwithlaura
YOU'RE NOT CRAZY ebook: GET IT HERE
MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: SHOP HERE
JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: https://www.skool.com/nice-guy-recovery-community-1517
My episode on Jessica's podcast: Your Traitor Within
FOLLOW JESSICA:
WEBSITE: https://www.jessicaannepressler.com/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/jessicaannepressler
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.anne.pressler.2025/
TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessicaannepressler0
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@yourtraitorwithin
 
"Healing begins the moment you stop abandoning yourself to keep someone else comfortable."
 
Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com
Contact us for expert podcast production and support.

In this episode of That's Where I'm At, host Laura welcomes Dana S. Diaz, a bestselling, award-winning author, keynote speaker, and survivor of narcissistic abuse. Dana shares her powerful story of escaping a 25-year marriage to a covert narcissist, offering a deeply honest look into the realities of long-term psychological abuse.
After enduring abuse in both childhood and marriage, Dana refused to stay a victim and now uses her voice to help others break free. Featured on nearly 300 podcasts worldwide, she blends raw truth with neuroscience-backed insight to expose the patterns that keep people stuck and guide survivors toward lasting healing and empowerment.
In this conversation, Dana and Laura unpack the complexities of narcissistic abuse, trauma bonding, and the physical toll of chronic stress caused by prolonged trauma. Dana also highlights the challenges victims face when leaving abusive relationships and the importance of recognizing manipulation tactics like gaslighting.
Despite the pain of her journey, Dana's story is one of resilience, transformation, and hope—reminding listeners that they are not alone and that healing is always possible.
 
Key Topics & Timestamps
How Dana's Work Began (00:03:21) Dana explains her work started from a hidden journal she kept while trapped with her abusive husband during COVID.
Life with a Narcissist (00:04:33) Dana describes the isolation and control she experienced, including having no smartphone and being accused of cheating.
The Pandemic's Impact (00:05:52) The speakers discuss how the pandemic lockdown intensified domestic abuse situations, trapping victims at home with their abusers.
Red Flags of Abuse (00:07:45) Laura highlights red flags from Dana's story, such as isolation, control over technology, and financial entitlement from the abuser.
The Trauma Bond Explained (00:09:18) The conversation covers trauma bonding, explaining how victims become chemically bonded to their abusers, making it difficult to leave.
Dana's Traumatic Childhood (00:10:13) Dana shares her history of being unwanted by her mother and abused by her overtly narcissistic stepfather.
From One Abuser to Another (00:13:17) Dana explains how her childhood primed her to fall for her future husband, who offered the attention she craved.
The Cycle of Abuse and Love Bombing (00:14:38) Dana describes the cycle of violence followed by promises of love, which kept her hoping for change.
The Neuroscience of Abuse (00:20:34) Dana discusses the neuroscience behind trauma bonds, explaining how repeated experiences rewire the brain, making victims believe the abuse is their fault.
Defining Narcissism (00:25:39)  Dana explains narcissism on a scale, comparing benign narcissists to benign tumors and malignant narcissists to malignant tumors.
The Physical Toll of Chronic Stress (00:30:40)  Dana details her severe health issues, including an autoimmune disorder and lung syndrome, caused by years of chronic stress.
The Turning Point (00:35:14) A neurologist's advice to remove the "toxic" element from her life became the catalyst for Dana's decision to leave.
Life After Abuse (00:38:43) Dana shares her incredible post-divorce success, including remarrying, publishing a bestselling trilogy, and finding her purpose.
You Don't Need to Understand It to Leave (00:42:49) The speakers discuss reaching a point where understanding the "why" behind the abuse no longer matters; leaving is enough.
Misdiagnosed and Medicated (00:49:28) Dana shares how her ex convinced her she was bipolar, leading to a decade of incorrect medication for PTSD.
Challenging Social and Religious Pressure (00:53:41) The conversation addresses the societal and religious pressures that often keep women trapped in abusive marriages.
The Alarming Statistics of Domestic Violence (01:00:16) Dana shares shocking statistics about the prevalence of intimate partner violence and its fatal consequences for women.
Finding Resources and Support (01:02:09) The hosts emphasize that resources and support systems exist to help victims leave, including shelters and pet fostering services.
 
Powerful Quotes from the Episode
Dana, 'I'm locked in a house with a man who wants me dead.'
Dana 'He loves me, but he's choosing to abuse me. He's choosing to hurt me. He wants me to be in pain. He wants me to suffer. And then by the end of that 25 years, it was, he actually wants me to be dead.'
Dana, 'I had been living in fight or flight mode since I was six or seven years old.'
'Dana Diaz', '00:36:38', 'My health, my life was not worth this man that clearly didn't love me.'
'Dana, 'I finally realized that I had to stop living the life that was dictated to me, and live the life that was always in my heart.'
 
RESOURCES:
COACH WITH LAURA: https://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.com/coachwithlaura
YOU'RE NOT CRAZY ebook: GET IT HERE
MARRIED TO A "NICE" GUY: GETTING OVER NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: SHOP HERE
JOIN THE NICE GUY RECOVERY COMMUNITY: https://www.skool.com/nice-guy-recovery-community-1517 
FOLLOW GUEST:
WEBSITE: Https://danasdiaz.com
INSTAGRAM: Www.instagram.com/danas.diaz
GASPING FOR AIR: THE STRANGLEHOLD OF NARCISSISTIC ABUSE: https://a.co/d/0dnzvqvl
 
"Love shouldn't cost you your safety, your sanity, or your life—walking away is how you take it all back."
 
Podcast Produced and edited by the team at ResilientVoiceMedia.com
Contact us for expert podcast production and support.