Narcissist? I’m Asking For A Friend

Conflict doesn't have to end in frustration and hurt feelings. In this episode, Karen introduces her Bottle-Talk Method, a simple but powerful communication tool designed to help couples navigate difficult conversations with structure, respect, and understanding. Learn how taking turns, active listening, validation, and empathy can transform the way you resolve conflict and strengthen your rel...

After surviving a narcissistic relationship, it’s common to see red flags everywhere. What was once intuition can start to feel like suspicion. Every disagreement feels like manipulation. Every confident person seems dangerous. Every new relationship comes with a fear that you’re about to be deceived again. In this episode, we talk about the difficult journey of healing after narcissistic abuse wi...

In this episode of Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend, hosts Karen Maldonado and Tyler King unpack emotional immaturity—a pattern often mistaken for narcissism. They discuss how these arguments typically play out, practical ways to handle conflict with emotionally immature partners, and healthy coping tools for navigating relationships where the issue isn't abuse, but emotional growth.

In this episode, Karen and Tyler dive deep into one of the most asked questions: Can a narcissist ever truly change? They explore what healing would even look like for someone with narcissistic traits-spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. Is transformation possible, or is it just wishful thinking? Through real-life insights, biblical perspective, and honest conversation, they unpack the d...

In this episode of Narcissist? I’m Asking for a Friend, Karen and Tyler dive into the complicated relationship between addiction and narcissistic behavior. They unpack why people who aren’t true narcissists may act narcissistic when struggling with alcohol or drug addiction—and how to recognize the difference. Together, they explore practical ways to respond with wisdom and boundaries when addicti...

Adolescence can be messy, but what happens when a teen's behavior goes beyond typical moodiness and starts to show real narcissistic traits? And what if those patterns mirror what's happening at home? In this episode of Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend, we explore how narcissism can show up in teenagers —and how a parent's own tendencies may play a role in shaping their teen&#39...

In this week's episode of Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend, Karen Maldonado and Tyler King dive into a surprising question: Could you be raising a narcissist without even realizing it? They break down the three most common ways narcissistic traits are developed in childhood and offer practical, hopeful advice for parents who want to raise emotionally healthy kids. Whether you're a p...

In Part 2 of "Breaking The Trauma Bond", we continue uncovering the tangled web of trauma bonds-what keeps them alive, why they're so hard to break, and the steps you can take to finally find freedom. If Part 1 gave you clarity, this conversation goes even deeper, offering practical insight and real hope for breaking the cycle once and for all.

In Part 1 of this two-part episode of Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend, Karen and Tyler dive into the complex and often misunderstood world of trauma bonds—why they form, why they're so hard to break, and the toll they take on your heart and mind. They also explore an often overlooked dynamic: what it can look like when the woman is the narcissist. With candid conversation, real-world i...

In this episode, Karen and Tyler dive into one of the most unsettling truths about narcissistic abuse: the smear campaign never stops—no matter where you stand with them. Whether you're on "good terms" or have gone no-contact, the narcissist will twist your words, share your secrets, and shape the narrative to serve their agenda. Why do they do this? What do they gain? And how can yo...

They come on strong-charming, attentive, maybe even too perfect. But is it real love... or the opening act of manipulation? In this episode of Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend, we're breaking down the confusing early stages of narcissistic relationships: love bombing, the illusion of kindness, and why it's so hard to set boundaries when everything seems good. We'll talk about ho...

Season 4 Episode 3 - In this episode, Karen and Tyler unpack why narcissists often unravel during special occasions, holidays, and events that aren't centered on them-and how their need for control and attention can ruin what should be joyful moments. Then the conversation takes a powerful turn into parenting in today's culture. They explore how lack of discipline, fear of saying "no,...

This episode of Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend, is part two of our interview with guest Michelle Davey. Be sure to listen to last weeks episode if you haven't yet. Michelle is the author of the children's book My Voice Is My Superpower. In this episode she shares her powerful story of healing after narcissistic abuse. Michelle opens up about how she lost her voice, what it took to...

In this episode of Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend, our guest Michelle Davey - author of the children's book My Voice Is My Superpower - shares her powerful story of healing after narcissistic abuse. Michelle opens up about how she lost her voice, what it took to reclaim it, and the journey that inspired her to write a book that helps children do the same. + Be sure to tune in next wee...

Karen and Tyler explore how narcissistic behavior can overlap with other conditions like Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, and more. Could these diagnoses open the door for someone to finally see a counselor—and maybe even get real help? The duo discusses the hope (and complexity) of addressing narcissism through therapy when other mental health challenges are also in the mi...

Karen and Tyler dive into the subtle-and not-so-subtle-ways narcissists keep control. From cutting down goals to shutting down reactions, they explore real-life scenarios where the narcissist manipulates conversations, emotions, and decisions to stay on top. Learn how victims are often stripped of power without even realizing it-and how to start recognizing the patterns.

What happens when the person who was supposed to nurture you was instead obsessed with controlling you? In this episode of Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend, we dive into the hidden scars of growing up with a narcissistic parent. From walking on eggshells to becoming the emotional caretaker, we explore how these childhood roles follow us into adulthood— shaping our relationships, our identit...

In this episode of Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend, Karen and Tyler dive into the psychological warfare narcissists use to keep their victims off balance and unsure of reality. From gaslighting to shifting blame, they break down the manipulative tactics designed to confuse and control. Through real-life scenarios and candid conversation, they explore what happens when you stop playing alon...

In this episode, Karen and Tyler dive into the insidious world of verbal abuse—specifically the kind that happens behind closed doors. What happens when the person hurting you makes sure no one else sees it? When you’re constantly second-guessing yourself, wondering, Was that really abuse? Or am I just too sensitive? They unpack the tactics narcissists use to manipulate reality, isolate their vict...

In this episode, Karen Maldonado and Tyler King dive into what it really means to put yourself first when you're dealing with a narcissist-whether it's a spouse, parent, friend, coworker, or even that neighbor who always seems to cross the line. Through real-life scenarios and practical insights, they explore the challenges of setting boundaries, protecting your peace, and making empowered...

In this eye-opening episode, Karen and Tyler dive deep into the roots of why some people seem to attract narcissists like moths to a flame. Could the way you were raised be the reason? They explore how childhood environments-especially those shaped by people-pleasing, emotional neglect, or enmeshment-can unknowingly train us to tolerate toxic dynamics later in life. With real-life examples, and pr...

In this enlightening episode of "Narcissist? I'm Asking For A Friend" hosts Tyler and Karen dive deep into the challenging yet crucial topic of setting boundaries in relationships with narcissistic individuals. Drawing from their personal experiences and expert advice, they offer practical, actionable strategies to help you protect your emotional well-being and reclaim your sense of...

In this episode of "Narcissist? I'm Asking for a Friend" Karen speaks with Sarah Rose, the author of "Sadie's Favorite," a poignant coming-of-age novel that chronicles the life of a young girl with borderline personality disorder trapped in an abusive relationship with a narcissist. Together, Karen and Sarah explore the intricate psychology behind borderline personality...

In this episode, Tyler and Karen unravel the intricacies of how our brains and bodies react to narcissistic behavior through the lenses of the four survival responses: fight, flight, freeze, and fawn.

Join us as we explore the psychology behind narcissistic deception, uncovering the tactics they use to manipulate and control those around them. We'll hear stories from Karen and Tyler. And Karen will share excerpts from the book "Is It Me?" By Natalie Hoffman. Find a sense of closure as we unravel the truth about narcissistic lying.