Surviving Toxic Relationships Podcast with The Matadoras

Elizabeth Jane and Deana Lynn

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. 14h ago

    Episode #113: Who Were You Before Him? Rediscovering Your Identity After a Toxic Relationship

    Who were you before the relationship changed you? In this honest conversation, Lizzie, Deana, and special guest Jennifer discuss what happens when years of people-pleasing, survival, and emotional abuse slowly erase your sense of identity. Together they share personal stories of rediscovering forgotten dreams, preferences, confidence, and joy while offering hope for anyone wondering who they are after a toxic relationship. Whether you're still healing or beginning to reinvent your life, this episode reminds you that losing yourself does not have to be the end of your story. 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. Jul 15

    Episode #112:Can Breathwork Heal Trauma? How to Reset Your Nervous System After Toxic Relationships | Jon Paul Crimi

    If you've left a toxic relationship but still feel anxious, emotionally exhausted, or like your nervous system is always on high alert, you're not imagining it. In this powerful conversation, Lizzie and Deana sit down with breathwork pioneer Jon Paul Crimi to explore how trauma can become stored in the body—and why healing isn't always about talking through your past. Jon Paul shares his remarkable personal journey through addiction, recovery, and emotional healing after discovering conscious connected breathwork through his friend, Matthew Perry. Together they discuss: • Why trauma can stay trapped in your nervous system  • The surprising connection between anxiety and stored emotional pain  • How breathwork differs from box breathing and meditation  • Why you may still feel "stuck" long after leaving a toxic relationship  • The science behind nervous system regulation  • How emotional healing can help you rebuild confidence and self-worth  • Why healing is about more than simply "letting it go" Whether you're recovering from narcissistic abuse, emotional manipulation, chronic anxiety, or simply longing for deeper healing, this conversation offers hope and practical insight. Connect with Jon Paul Crimi:  https://breathewithjp.com If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with someone who needs hope today. 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. Jul 8

    Episode #111: Addiction, Narcissism & Codependency: Why You Feel Crazy | Featuring Dr. Sarah Michaud

    Is your partner struggling with addiction, narcissistic behaviors, or both? How can you tell the difference, and more importantly, how do you begin healing? In this powerful conversation, we welcome Dr. Sarah Michaud, a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of experience specializing in addiction and codependency. Drawing from both her professional expertise and personal recovery journey, Dr. Michaud shares practical insights into the similarities between addiction and narcissism, why both can leave partners questioning their reality, and how codependency quietly develops over time.  Together we discuss: • The overlap between addiction and narcissism • Why partners often feel "crazy" • Supporting versus enabling • Codependency and losing yourself • Boundaries that protect your well-being • Why you cannot change another person • Trusting your instincts when something feels wrong • Beginning your own healing journey Whether you're living with an addict, recovering from a toxic relationship, or trying to understand confusing behaviors in someone you love, this conversation offers practical wisdom and hope. Remember: You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. You can find Dr. Sarah Michaud: Dr. Sarah Michaud's Website http://www.youtube.com/@leavingcrazytown 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. Jul 2

    Episode #110: Behind the Mic: Big Changes, Publishers & Trusting God with What's Next

    In this Behind the Mic episode, Lizzie and Deana share a personal update about everything that's been happening behind the scenes. From winning the Selah Award and attending the Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference to meeting with publishers, redesigning their books, expanding into coaching and speaking, and preparing for significant life transitions, this episode offers an honest look at what it means to follow God's leading even when the future isn't fully clear. Lizzie also shares her decision to leave a long career in education and the faith required to step into a new season, while Deana reflects on the importance of trusting God's timing and embracing life's transitions. If you're navigating uncertainty, considering a major life change, or wondering what comes after healing, this conversation is for you. Thank you for walking this journey with us. 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. Jun 17

    Episode #109: From Exploitation to Restoration: A Story of Hope After Sexual Trauma

    What happens when childhood sexual trauma silently shapes every relationship, every decision, and every belief about your worth? In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, Tiffany Brearton shares her deeply personal story of childhood sexual abuse, shame, exploitation, toxic relationships, and the long road to healing. Tiffany opens up about how trauma affected her self-worth, why so many survivors struggle with relationships, and the freedom she found through faith, counseling, community, and God's healing grace. In this episode: • Childhood sexual abuse and trauma • Shame, secrecy, and emotional healing • How trauma impacts adult relationships • Human trafficking and exploitation awareness • Why survivors often feel "too far gone" • The power of safe community • Faith-based healing and restoration • Practical first steps toward recovery • Finding freedom from the lies of the past If you have experienced abuse, betrayal, trauma, or deep shame, this conversation offers hope that healing is possible and your story is not over. You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. To connect with Tiffany Brearton, learn more about her ministry, or explore her books and resources, you can find her here: Website:  https://www.tiffanybrearton.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/tiffanybrearton/ Book on Amazon:  From Stilettos to Grace. https://a.co/d/0hQDzVLL 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. Jun 10

    Episode #108: The Red Flags I Ignored Before Discovering the Truth

    What happens when the relationship you've been fighting to save turns out to be something entirely different than you believed? In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras, Heather Justice shares her personal story of emotional abuse, trauma bonding, narcissistic manipulation, and the shocking discovery that changed everything. After two and a half years of an on-again, off-again relationship, Heather uncovered an expunged felony record that forced her to confront the reality she had been unable to see clearly. Together we discuss: • Trauma bonding and emotional addiction • Breadcrumbing and intermittent reinforcement • Why survivors struggle to leave • Hidden red flags in toxic relationships • Narcissistic abuse and manipulation • Loneliness inside a relationship • Faith, healing, and recovery • Rediscovering your identity after abuse • How God can bring beauty from painful seasons Heather also shares her devotional resource designed to help survivors heal through biblical truth, prayer, and rediscovery. If you've ever wondered: "Why couldn't I leave?" "Why did I keep going back?" "How did I miss the warning signs?" This episode is for you. You are not alone. You are not crazy. You are deeply loved. Connect with Heather Justice using the links below: Website:  http://heathernjustice.com/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@hnjustice?si=hrhrK9dOZ2vk7KTt Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4bKemyt 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. Jun 2

    Episode #107: Fired at 63, Millionaire by 69 The Financial Comeback Every Woman Needs to Hear

    At 63 years old, David Nassif unexpectedly lost his job after nearly two decades with the same company. Faced with the possibility of financial collapse, he chose to rebuild instead of giving up. Six years later, he had achieved financial freedom and created a simple one-page framework to help others avoid the mistakes he made. In this powerful conversation, David shares practical financial wisdom for anyone facing a major life transition, especially women navigating gray divorce, financial abuse, job loss, or the challenge of starting over later in life. Together we discuss: • Rebuilding after financial devastation  • The emotional impact of losing your identity  • Why many people feel trapped financially  • Faith, perseverance, and resilience  • The importance of financial education  • Simple investing principles anyone can understand  • Hope for those starting over after 50 This episode is a reminder that your story isn't over, and it is never too late to build a stronger future. To learn more about David Nassif and download his free One Page Wealth Compass, visit:  https://onepagewealthcompass.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.

  8. May 27

    Episode #106: Leaving Financial Abuse: What Women Need to Know Before Starting Over

    This conversation originally aired during our 2025 Breaking the Chains… Escaping Abuse telesummit with financial coach Suzanne Skolian, where we discussed one of the most overlooked forms of abuse: financial control. Financial abuse rarely begins with obvious manipulation. Often, it starts slowly through secrecy, monitoring, “allowances,” restricted access to accounts, damaged credit, or being made to feel incapable of surviving independently. Over time, money becomes more than a financial issue—it becomes a tool of fear, dependency, humiliation, and control. In this episode, we discuss:  the hidden warning signs of financial abuse  how toxic partners use money to create dependence  the emotional and spiritual toll of financial control  credit destruction and economic sabotage  practical steps toward rebuilding independence safely  resources available for women trying to leave abusive situations  why financial abuse keeps so many women trapped longer than people realize Suzanne Skolian of Grace Financial Coaching shares practical financial guidance for women navigating difficult transitions, including budgeting, rebuilding credit, emergency planning, financial literacy, and understanding available support systems.  If you have ever felt trapped, ashamed, financially dependent, or afraid of starting over, this conversation was created to remind you that you are not weak, and you are not alone. Because you are not alone.  You are not crazy.  And 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.

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5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

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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