The Gaslight Effect Podcast

Robin Stern
  • 4.5 (49)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Gaslight (/ˈɡaslīt/). Verb. Manipulating someone by psychological means into questioning their own reality. The Gaslight Effect podcast is hosted by Dr. Robin Stern, co-founder of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of the best-selling book, The Gaslight Effect. On her podcast, Robin helps listeners identify gaslighting, to escape the destructive dynamic and reclaim their reality.

  1. NOV 4

    Framed By The System: Amy Polacko On The Abuser's Playbook In Family Court

    In this episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, Dr. Robin Stern sits down with award-winning journalist, divorce coach, and advocate Amy Polacko, co-author of Framed: Women in the Family Court Underworld. Together, they explore how gaslighting and coercive control extend far beyond personal relationships—and into the legal systems meant to protect survivors. Amy shares her own journey through divorce and the family court system, offering a rare insider's perspective on how abusers weaponize the courts to maintain control. From financial gaslighting and emergency custody motions to the misuse of mental health records, Amy and Robin expose the systemic biases and misogynistic tropes that often paint women as "hysterical" or "vengeful." The conversation also empowers listeners with concrete strategies for navigating these challenges. Amy outlines steps women can take before filing for divorce—such as building a support team, documenting evidence, and creating a financial plan—and stresses the importance of working with attorneys who truly understand coercive control. Listeners will gain insight into how to rebuild self-trust after gaslighting, how to protect themselves emotionally and legally, and why reforms like Kayden's Law are critical to safeguarding children and survivors. Key Takeaways: How gaslighting and coercive control play out in family court. The importance of silent preparation and strategic planning before divorce. Why choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Practical steps for documenting abuse and protecting finances. How to begin trusting your instincts again after manipulation. Resources Mentioned: Framed: Women in the Family Court Underworld by Amy Polacko and colleagues Divorce Decoded digital course by Amy Polacko Freedom Warrior Coaching and support groups for survivors Tune in for an essential conversation that sheds light on a hidden crisis—and offers a roadmap for recovery, empowerment, and change. To check out this and other episodes, head over to robinstern.com. Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone. Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/ Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a Dr. Robin Stern's Books: The Gaslight Effect The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

    45 min

  2. OCT 21

    Normalize It with Dr. Jessica Zucker: Miscarriages, Shame, and What Women Aren't Allowed to Say (But Feel)

    October marks both Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a time to honor women's experiences of loss, resilience, and healing. In this episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, Dr. Robin Stern welcomes Dr. Jessica Zucker, a Los Angeles–based psychologist and award-winning author who specializes in reproductive and maternal mental health. Dr. Zucker shares the story of her own miscarriage at 16 weeks into her second pregnancy — a life-changing experience that reshaped her clinical work and inspired her to launch the I Had a Miscarriage campaign. Through her writing and advocacy, she has worked to dismantle the silence, stigma, and shame surrounding pregnancy loss and to foster a culture of openness, compassion, and understanding. Together, Robin and Jessica explore how gaslighting often shows up in women's health, from dismissive medical encounters to well-intentioned but invalidating comments like "at least you know you can get pregnant." Dr. Zucker explains how these responses can deepen isolation and grief, and she offers guidance for supporting others through loss with empathy and validation. The conversation expands to her second book, Normalize It, which addresses broader women's health topics — including menstruation, body image, and menopause — and the cultural discomfort that keeps so many of these issues unspoken. Both Dr. Stern and Dr. Zucker reflect on their own experiences growing up in a society that encouraged silence and self-criticism rather than self-acceptance. Through powerful storytelling, Dr. Zucker emphasizes the importance of self-expression — whether through journaling or open dialogue — and the healing that comes from being truly seen and heard. She envisions a cultural shift toward greater psychological awareness, where people can meet one another's pain with compassion instead of minimization. Key themes: The emotional and societal impact of miscarriage and pregnancy loss Medical and personal gaslighting in women's health The power of storytelling and vulnerability in healing Normalizing conversations about menstruation, menopause, and emotional well-being To check out this and other episodes, head over to robinstern.com. Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone. Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/ Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a Dr. Robin Stern's Books: The Gaslight Effect The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

    43 min

  3. OCT 7

    Is Coercive Control The Blueprint of Abuse? - Dr. Christine Cocchiola on Healing and Hope

    In this episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, Dr. Robin Stern welcomes Dr. Christine Cocchiola, a leading expert, researcher, and advocate on the devastating impact of coercive control. Dr. Cocchiola is the founder of the Coercive Control Consulting Institute, where she trains professionals and supports survivors in understanding and dismantling the hidden dynamics of abuse. She is also the author of Framed and host of The Perfect Prey Podcast, where she amplifies survivor stories and deepens awareness around coercive control and narcissistic abuse. Together, Robin and Christine explore how gaslighting and coercive control erode self-worth, why these patterns often go unnoticed, and what it takes to break free. They discuss the foundation of narcissistic abuse, the urgent need for awareness and education, and practical strategies for healing and empowerment. Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of: How coercive control operates as the core of abusive relationships. Insights from Framed on navigating the aftermath of abuse. Lessons from The Perfect Prey Podcast that shed light on lived survivor experiences. Tools survivors can use to reclaim their voice and thrive beyond trauma. Through her institute, book, and podcast, Dr. Cocchiola's work shines a light on an often invisible form of abuse while offering survivors validation, clarity, and hope. To check out this and other episodes, head over to robinstern.com. Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone. Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/ Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a Dr. Robin Stern's Books: The Gaslight Effect The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

    48 min

  4. SEP 23

    Becoming Irene of Irene's Entropy: Gaslighting, Identity And The Door To Freedom

    In this deeply personal and illuminating episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, Dr. Robin Stern sits down with Irene's Entropy—storyteller, musician, and fierce explorer of lived experience—to map the intersections between identity, mental health, and the subtle dynamics of gaslighting. Through candid conversation, Irene shares her very personal journey of navigating internal and external turbulence: the disorienting effects of self-doubt, the complexities of her mental and emotional landscape, the ways in which others can warp one's sense of reality, and what it takes to reclaim truth.  Irene's music—including Identity, Freedom Was Pain, Gaslight Me, Speak, P.T.S.D, and Bread 2 Stone—threads through the discussion, offering lyrical snapshots of the pain of manipulation, the struggle to define oneself, and the hard-won courage of reclaiming one's voice. Together, they explore: How emotional and societal expectations distort identity—and how gaslighting often shows up not only in relationships with others, but in the ways we silence or invalidate ourselves. The tipping point: identifying the patterns (in words, relationships, internal dialogue) that signal when "entropy" has taken over. Tools, practices, and mindsets that support disentangling from those patterns: how to "ground" reality, rebuild trust in one's own perceptions, and find stable footing amid chaos. How storytelling, vulnerability, and creative expression—whether through conversation or songs like Speak—become acts of resistance and steps toward healing. This episode offers both piercing insight and compassionate companionship for anyone who has questioned what is "real," wrestled with self-identity, or felt lost in someone else's narrative. Robin and Irene remind us: you deserve clarity. You deserve truth. And with effort, you can rediscover the voice that gaslighting tried to erase. Tune in for a conversation that's raw, hopeful, and a reminder that even when things feel upside down, there are ways back to solid ground. To check out this and other episodes, head over to robinstern.com. Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone. Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/ Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a Dr. Robin Stern's Books: The Gaslight Effect The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

    57 min

  5. SEP 9

    Before You Say "Gaslighting": From Innocent Therapy Speak to Weaponized Words - Dr. Isabelle Morley

    Therapy language is everywhere—on social media, in conversations with friends, and inside our most intimate relationships. But what happens when words like "gaslighting," "narcissist," or "boundaries" are misunderstood—or worse, weaponized? In this episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, host Dr. Robin Stern is joined by clinical psychologist and EFT-certified couples therapist Dr. Isabelle Morley, author of They're Not Gaslighting You. Together, they unpack the difference between well-intentioned misuse of therapy terms and deliberate manipulation, exploring how careless labeling can derail connection, fuel conflict, and obscure the reality of true gaslighting. You'll hear: How to tell the difference between misuse and weaponization of therapy speak Why labels can shut down vulnerability and repair in relationships A practical "response playbook" if therapy terms are being used against you How clinicians can reframe conversations and protect the integrity of therapy The role social media plays in spreading oversimplified—and often misleading—mental health content Dr. Morley also shares insights from her new book, reminding us that intimacy requires risk, repair, and careful use of language. Learn more at drisabellemorley.com Follow Dr. Morley on Instagram: @drisabellemorley To check out this and other episodes, head over to robinstern.com. Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone. Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/ Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a Dr. Robin Stern's Books: The Gaslight Effect The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

    42 min

  6. AUG 26

    Gen Z On Gaslighting: A Conversation With Young Leaders From UPEACE

    In this episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, host Dr. Robin Stern speaks with Vail Brokaw, Sasan Korangy, and Salar Korangy about their groundbreaking work with Young Leaders for Peace (YLP), a flagship program of UPEACE NY in collaboration with the University for Peace. Motivated to better navigate the global challenges and conflicts facing their generation, Vail and Sasan co-founded YLP as a summer program focused on leadership development for high school students. With its successful launch in June 2025, they are now eager to bring the mission of YLP into their own school communities and beyond. Joining the conversation is Salar Korangy, a rising high school senior who contributed to YLP as a youth instructor. Salar taught a course on Positive Psychology, helping participants explore the link between inner peace, resilience, and real-world impact. Drawing on his experience writing about the intersection of emotional intelligence and adolescence, Salar adds a powerful perspective on the role of mindset in shaping tomorrow's leaders. Together with Dr. Stern, they discuss how youth-driven initiatives like YLP are empowering the next generation to lead with compassion, creativity, and courage. To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com. Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone. Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/ Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a Dr. Robin Stern's Books: The Gaslight Effect The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

    55 min

  7. AUG 12

    What the World Needs Now: Dacher Keltner on Awe, Compassion, and the Power of Moral Beauty

    On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern welcomes Dr. Dacher Keltner — UC Berkeley psychologist, founding director of the Greater Good Science Center, and leading expert on the science of awe. Together, they explore how cultivating moral beauty — the recognition of kindness, courage, humility, and justice — can counter the harm of gaslighting and the moral ugliness that fuels polarization and disconnection. Drawing from his acclaimed book, Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life, Dr. Keltner shares groundbreaking research on how moments of wonder can lower inflammation, improve cardiovascular health, reduce anxiety and depression, and help us recover from pain and even long COVID. He offers practical, accessible ways to experience awe daily — from connecting with strangers and engaging with art to spending time in nature and reviving cultural traditions that inspire compassion. The conversation moves from personal stories of loss and resilience to global initiatives like "Cities of Awe", museum partnerships, and educational programs designed to bring more beauty and connection into our lives. Whether you're looking for strategies to heal from manipulation or ways to strengthen community bonds, this episode offers a research-backed roadmap for living with more meaning, openness, and joy. To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com. Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone. Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/ Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a Dr. Robin Stern's Books: The Gaslight Effect The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

    48 min

  8. JUL 29

    Purpose Over Prestige: Reframing the College Quest

    On this episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, Dr. Robin Stern welcomes college‑admissions veteran Dr. Joie Jager‑Hyman—founder of College Prep 360 and author of Fat Envelope Frenzy and B+ Grades, A+ College Applications. Joie, a Dartmouth alum and former Assistant Director of Admissions, reveals how her own curiosity about the process led her to guide students away from small missteps and toward a more empowered, self‑directed path. Together, Stern and Jager‑Hyman demystify the intense pressures of Ivy‑League admissions—from "fat‑envelope envy" and the ever‑escalating expectations of top high schools, to the mental‑health toll of feeling you're "just not enough." Joie shares why she tells every student, "I hope you get into your dream school—but I also hope it's the least important thing you do," and how reframing ambitions around authentic acts of service can restore perspective and build real self‑worth. They also tackle the modern amplifiers of stress: the public spectacle of social‑media acceptances (that 5 pm Yale notification everyone sees) and the isolating "don't talk to your friends" advice that can fracture peer support. You'll learn concrete strategies for parents, educators, and students alike—how to create dedicated spaces for honest conversation, put mental‑health safeguards in place, and approach applications as a journey of growth, not just a destination. Listen now to turn admissions anxiety into strategic empowerment, so every student can step into the process clear‑headed, confident, and ready to define success on their own terms. To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com. Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone. Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/ Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a Dr. Robin Stern's Books: The Gaslight Effect The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

    56 min
See All (84)

Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
49 Ratings

About

Gaslight (/ˈɡaslīt/). Verb. Manipulating someone by psychological means into questioning their own reality. The Gaslight Effect podcast is hosted by Dr. Robin Stern, co-founder of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of the best-selling book, The Gaslight Effect. On her podcast, Robin helps listeners identify gaslighting, to escape the destructive dynamic and reclaim their reality.

Information

You Might Also Like