Surviving Toxic Relationships Podcast with The Matadoras

Elizabeth Jane and Deana Lynn
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Surviving Toxic Relationships is a faith based podcast for women who are ready to break free from toxic, emotionally abusive, or narcissistic relationships and step into healing, clarity, and truth.  Deana and Lizzie are two women whose lives unexpectedly crossed when they were married to the SAME manipulative, cheating, financially abusive partner.  Their combined passion is to provide women with the tools to avoid, escape, or heal from toxic, harmful, or confusing relationships.   If you’ve been searching for faith based wisdom that goes deeper than surface-level advice, this show is for you. We talk honestly about trauma, emotional wounds, spiritual confusion, and the process of rebuilding your identity through faith.   Our esteemed guests consist of Therapists, Authors, Doctors, and Survivors. Together, we explore topics that include self-discovery and healing, narcissistic abuse, boundaries, discernment, and learning to hear God’s voice clearly in relationships.  Whether you’re trying to avoid early red flags, are in the middle of a toxic relationship, or recovering from one, this emotional and spiritual healing podcast offers real conversations, practical insight, and biblical encouragement to help you move forward into hope, restoration, self worth, and renewal.  Remember beautiful friends: You are not alone, You are not crazy, and You are deeply, deeply loved.   Deana & Lizzie

  1. 1 day ago

    Episode #123: When the Past Still Hurts Understanding: Triggers After Toxic Relationships

    Have you ever heard a song, watched a movie, or experienced something seemingly ordinary that suddenly brought back painful memories from a relationship you thought you had moved beyond? Sometimes those moments catch us completely off guard. In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Lizzie and Deana continue their conversation about Taylor Swift's music video and the unexpected emotions it stirred. Even years after leaving their toxic marriages, both women discovered that certain scenes could still bring back powerful memories. But does being triggered mean you haven't healed? Together, Lizzie and Deana explore the difference between emotional triggers and genuine warning signs, why past betrayal can affect future relationships, and how to recognize the progress you've made without becoming discouraged by difficult moments. They also discuss how to support someone who is experiencing a trigger, the importance of compassionate communication, and the different ways they personally find comfort through faith, journaling, quiet reflection, and other coping strategies. Whether you're healing from a toxic relationship or walking alongside someone who is, this conversation offers understanding, encouragement, and the reminder that healing is not always a straight path. You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras Faith. Truth. Healing. Support the show 🎙️ Stay Connected with Us! 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel 🌐 Visit our website: Looking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast? https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie Contact us anytime at our email:  care@survivingtoxicrelationships.org  📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556560386678 Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.

  2. 21 Oct

    Episode 122: Taylor Swift’s “Patient Zero”: Two Ex-Wives Recognize Their Own Story

    What happens when a Taylor Swift music video reflects pieces of your own experience with emotional abuse? In this deeply personal episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Lizzie and Deana explore the powerful themes of gaslighting, manipulation, infidelity, and repeating relationship patterns depicted in Taylor Swift’s “The Fate of Ophelia.” What makes their perspective different? They were both married to the same man. Deana for 27 years and Lizzie for six. As they discuss scenes from the video, they recall moments from their own marriages that left them questioning themselves, feeling trapped, and struggling to distinguish truth from manipulation. They also explore how emotionally abusive partners can turn confrontations into opportunities to gain sympathy, avoid accountability, and leave their partners feeling responsible for everything. While some of the memories were difficult, this conversation also reflects how far they've come in their healing journeys. Join Lizzie and Deana for an honest conversation about recognizing destructive patterns, understanding emotional triggers, and finding hope beyond toxic relationships. Content note: This episode discusses emotional abuse, intimidation, and potentially triggering relationship experiences. Next episode: Understanding emotional triggers and why they can resurface long after a relationship ends. Learn more at https://survivingtoxicrelationships.org You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. Support the show 🎙️ Stay Connected with Us! 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel 🌐 Visit our website: Looking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast? https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie Contact us anytime at our email:  care@survivingtoxicrelationships.org  📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556560386678 Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.

  3. 14 Oct

    Episode #121: Modern Dating Red Flags: Love Bombing, Breadcrumbing, Ghostlighting & More

    Dating apps have changed how we meet people, but they've also created new opportunities for emotional manipulation, deception, and unhealthy relationship patterns. Love bombing, breadcrumbing, ghostlighting, and digital surveillance are just some of the behaviors women may encounter while navigating modern dating. But how do you recognize these warning signs before becoming emotionally invested? In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Lizzie and Deana share their personal online dating experiences, from suspicious profiles and overwhelming affection to subtle boundary violations and inconsistent communication. Together, they explore five modern dating red flags, discuss why certain behaviors can be particularly difficult to recognize after an emotionally abusive relationship, and offer practical ways to protect your emotional well-being and personal safety. Whether you're dating after divorce, considering dating apps, or simply learning what healthy relationships should look like, this episode encourages you to slow down, pay attention to patterns, and trust actions over promises. You don't have to approach dating with fear, but you can approach it with wisdom and discernment. Connect with The Matadoras at https://survivingtoxicrelationships.org You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. Support the show 🎙️ Stay Connected with Us! 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel 🌐 Visit our website: Looking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast? https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie Contact us anytime at our email:  care@survivingtoxicrelationships.org  📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556560386678 Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.

  4. 7 Oct

    Episode #120: Power Over Force: When Strength Turns Into Control with Garth Haslem

    What does real strength look like in a relationship? In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Lizzie and Deana sit down with Garth Haslem, author of Power Over Force and founder of Manalizing, to explore the difference between genuine strength and the need to control. Garth shares why power does not come from being the loudest person in the room, intimidating others, shutting down emotionally, or demanding obedience. Instead, real power begins with the ability to govern yourself. Together, we discuss why some men may confuse strength with control, anger, intimidation, or emotional withdrawal; what happens when stress pushes someone toward reactive behavior; and how emotional regulation can change the dynamics within a family. Garth also explains his LOAD assessment and how slowing down long enough to recognize your choices can keep a difficult moment from becoming a destructive one. We also talk about boundaries, including why setting a boundary can initially be uncomfortable but ultimately healthier than continually accommodating behavior that is hurting you or your family. Garth shares the heart behind Manalizing, a community designed to give men a place to talk honestly about the things men often don't talk about, including relationships, divorce, addiction, emotional struggles, isolation, and the pressures they carry alone. This conversation offers an important distinction: you cannot control another person's behavior, but you can decide who you are, what you will accept, and how you will respond. Learn more about Garth and his work through Power Over Force, Manalizing, and Stone and Pine. If you have ever wondered where healthy leadership ends and controlling behavior begins, this conversation is for you. You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. You can learn more about Garth and his work at PowerOverForce.com, or connect with him through Manalizing.com. Support the show 🎙️ Stay Connected with Us! 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel 🌐 Visit our website: Looking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast? https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie Contact us anytime at our email:  care@survivingtoxicrelationships.org  📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556560386678 Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.

  5. 23 Sept

    Episode #119: When Toxic Relationships Aren’t Romantic: Friends, Family, Coworkers, and Adult Children

    Toxic relationships are not always romantic. Sometimes the person who leaves you feeling controlled, anxious, guilty, or emotionally drained is a friend, parent, sibling, coworker, or even your adult child. In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Lizzie and Deana discuss how toxic patterns can appear in everyday relationships. They share personal experiences and explain the warning signs of manipulation, love bombing, triangulation, conditional love, financial exploitation, boundary violations, and one-sided relationships. You will also learn: • How to recognize when a friendship is based on what you provide • Why toxic family relationships can be especially difficult to navigate • When stronger boundaries may be enough • When it may be necessary to step away • How to protect yourself from toxic coworkers • Why you do not always owe a toxic person a confrontation • How healing can change the people you choose to keep close You are allowed to protect your peace, even when the person hurting you is someone you love. You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. Subscribe for honest conversations, trusted guidance, and hope for healing after toxic relationships. Support the show 🎙️ Stay Connected with Us! 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel 🌐 Visit our website: Looking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast? https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie Contact us anytime at our email:  care@survivingtoxicrelationships.org  📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556560386678 Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.

  6. 16 Sept

    Episode #118: The Red Flags Were There: How to Stop a Bad Relationship Before It Starts with Dave McLaughlin

    Have you ever looked back at a relationship and thought, "The red flags were there. Why didn't I see them?" Sometimes the problem isn't that there were no warning signs. It's that we didn't understand what we were looking at, or we explained those behaviors away once emotions, chemistry, and hope became involved. In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Deana and Lizzie sit down with ICF-certified relationship coach Dave McLachlan, author of Is He Worthy? Using Red Flags to Find the Perfect Match and founder of IsHeWorthy.com. Dave shares his approach to helping women establish relationship standards before emotions take over. We talk about identifying your non-negotiables, recognizing when chemistry may be clouding your judgment, and why knowing what you want before entering a relationship may help you recognize when something isn't right. We also explore an important question for women who have already experienced a toxic relationship: What if you saw the warning signs before, but simply didn't know what they meant? And later in the conversation, we talk about something that doesn't get discussed nearly enough: It's okay to decide you're not ready for another relationship. It's also okay to discover that you're genuinely happy on your own. Whether you're dating again, considering a new relationship, or simply trying to better understand the patterns you experienced in the past, this conversation offers another tool for approaching relationships with greater discernment and wisdom. You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. You may find Dave McLachlan below:  Email:   info@isheworthy.com Website:   https://isheworthy.com/ Support the show 🎙️ Stay Connected with Us! 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel 🌐 Visit our website: Looking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast? https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie Contact us anytime at our email:  care@survivingtoxicrelationships.org  📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556560386678 Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.

  7. 9 Sept

    Episode #117: What Comes After Survival? Healing, Starting Over & Finding Yourself Again

    What happens when you're no longer just trying to survive? For years, your questions may have centered around the relationship: Why am I so confused? Am I the problem? Should I stay? Should I leave? Then, somewhere in the healing process, the question can change: Who am I now? In this solo episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Lizzie shares where she is in her own story at 58: stepping away from a secure career, downsizing into a 16-foot travel trailer, and entering a season she describes as reinvention. But this conversation isn't really about a trailer. It's for the woman still trying to understand or exit a painful relationship. The woman who has left but is still healing. The woman whose children are grown. And the woman who has finally reached the place where she can ask: Now what? Lizzie also shares why she is stepping outside her comfort zone to launch her new personal channel, Midlife Wanderlust with Lizzie, and why that adventure would never have been possible without Deana, The Matadoras, and everything this journey has taught her. Because survival doesn't have to become your identity. There can be healing after the pain, purpose after the relationship, and new parts of yourself you haven't even met yet. You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. And your story isn't over. YouTube Channel: MIDlife Wanderlust with Lizzie Support the show 🎙️ Stay Connected with Us! 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel 🌐 Visit our website: Looking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast? https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie Contact us anytime at our email:  care@survivingtoxicrelationships.org  📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556560386678 Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.

  8. 19 Aug

    Episode #116: Why Women Stay Silent in Unhealthy Relationships with Marcelle LeBlanc

    What happens when you know something is wrong in your relationship, but you keep convincing yourself that everything is fine? In this episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Deana sits down with Marcelle LeBlanc, known as the Conversation Architect, to talk about why so many women struggle to identify what they truly want, speak up about what they need, and have the difficult conversations they have been avoiding. Marcelle shares her own story of discovering on her ninth wedding anniversary that her husband had taken his girlfriend to the British Virgin Islands. When he was caught, he never came home. Marcelle was left to dismantle the life they had built together, including dealing with the financial hardship and debt he left behind. That devastating experience eventually forced Marcelle to examine a much deeper question: Why had she spent so many years living according to other people's expectations instead of asking herself what she wanted? Through her work with thousands of women, Marcelle began noticing a pattern. Many women recognize that something is wrong in their relationships long before they are willing to admit it. Instead of treating their concerns as important information, they explain them away, minimize their needs, hope things will improve, or remain silent because speaking up feels too frightening. In this conversation, Deana and Marcelle discuss: Why women can be incredibly confident professionally but struggle to communicate their needs in relationships How people-pleasing and inherited expectations can keep women disconnected from what they actually want Why resentment grows when small disappointments are never addressed How to prepare for difficult conversations without losing your message in emotion Why phrases like "you always" and "you never" can derail communication What your partner's response to an honest conversation can reveal Why speaking up in a toxic relationship can feel especially dangerous How starting with small conversations can help you develop the confidence to address bigger issues And why it is never too late to begin working on yourself Sometimes the goal of an honest conversation isn't to save a relationship. Sometimes the conversation gives you the information you need to understand the relationship you're actually in. If you've been telling yourself that you're asking for too much, that you should just be grateful, or that what you're experiencing is "normal," this conversation may help you begin asking a different question: What do I actually want? You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. Connect with Marcelle LeBlanc: One Key Conversation https://onekeyconversation.com/ Support the show 🎙️ Stay Connected with Us! 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel 🌐 Visit our website: Looking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast? https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie Contact us anytime at our email:  care@survivingtoxicrelationships.org  📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556560386678 Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help.

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Surviving Toxic Relationships is a faith based podcast for women who are ready to break free from toxic, emotionally abusive, or narcissistic relationships and step into healing, clarity, and truth.  Deana and Lizzie are two women whose lives unexpectedly crossed when they were married to the SAME manipulative, cheating, financially abusive partner.  Their combined passion is to provide women with the tools to avoid, escape, or heal from toxic, harmful, or confusing relationships.   If you’ve been searching for faith based wisdom that goes deeper than surface-level advice, this show is for you. We talk honestly about trauma, emotional wounds, spiritual confusion, and the process of rebuilding your identity through faith.   Our esteemed guests consist of Therapists, Authors, Doctors, and Survivors. Together, we explore topics that include self-discovery and healing, narcissistic abuse, boundaries, discernment, and learning to hear God’s voice clearly in relationships.  Whether you’re trying to avoid early red flags, are in the middle of a toxic relationship, or recovering from one, this emotional and spiritual healing podcast offers real conversations, practical insight, and biblical encouragement to help you move forward into hope, restoration, self worth, and renewal.  Remember beautiful friends: You are not alone, You are not crazy, and You are deeply, deeply loved.   Deana & Lizzie

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