Talking to your kids about sex doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable or awkward. In this episode of my Broken to Brave Podcast, I share why sex positive parenting is essential for parents of tweens and teens who are navigating questions about relationships, boundaries, and intimacy. Learn how to create a safe and open environment so your child feels comfortable coming to you for advice instead of turning to their peers or unreliable sources. I give real-life examples and actionable strategies to empower your children with the knowledge they need to make healthy choices and build strong, respectful relationships. If you’re committed to raising confident, informed kids and creating a happy family dynamic, this video is for you.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.donnabarnes.com/virtual-coaching/#SexPositiveParenting#ParentingTeens#healthyconversations Chapters:00:00 – Introduction – Why sex positive parenting matters and why we need to talk about it00:47 – The Mistakes Parents Make – How avoiding “the talk” hurts teens01:20 – The Importance of Knowledge – Why kids need accurate information01:33 – Real-Life Coaching Story – Helping a teen girl understand boundaries & choices02:08 – The biology of boys and girls02:48 – If you don’t want to have “the talk”03:32 - Empowering Your Kids – Teaching healthy relationships, boundaries, and confidence 04:53 – The Boundary to Say No06:12 – Why Parents Struggle – Fear, discomfort, and outdated beliefs07:25 – How to Approach Your Tween/Teen – Creating a safe, judgment-free conversation space08:09 – Closing Thoughts – Why being open now prevents heartbreak later8:47 – What Are Your Thoughts? – Subscribe, comment your thoughts, and coaching offerDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.donnabarnes.com/breakup-recovery/10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you truly becoming the best version of yourself, or are you stuck repeating the same relationship mistakes? In this episode of Broken to Brave, The Love Coach Donna Barnes shares how “outrunning previous versions of yourself” is the key to finding and keeping a healthy relationship. Discover how self-growth helps you break free from perfectionism, set boundaries, embrace failure as a tool for success, and choose better partners. Whether you’re recovering from heartbreak, tired of being single, or simply ready to level up your life, this video will inspire you to define YOUR best self, create a daily growth routine, and stop comparing yourself to others. Your next great relationship starts with the best version of you!Get 25% off My Best Me Action Plan with Promo Code BESTME25: https://www.donnabarnes.com/best-me/#SelfGrowthJourney#HealthyRelationships#BestVersionOfYouDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.donnabarnes.com/breakup-recovery/10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you tired of people flirting with you when they’re already in a relationship—or worse, committed to someone else?Check out my new store: https://www.donnabarnes.online/category/all-products In this episode of Broken to Brave, The Love Coach Donna Barnes shares why it’s so important to flirt responsibly and the painful consequences of leading someone on when you’re not truly available for love. If you’ve ever thought you were starting a real relationship, only to discover that person was taken, this video will help you understand the emotional damage irresponsible flirting causes and how to protect yourself. Whether you’re single and frustrated with dating, struggling to find a committed partner, or looking for answers about why relationships keep falling apart, this video will give you insight and validation.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.donnabarnes.com/virtual-coaching/#FlirtResponsibly#ModernDatingAdvice#datingadvice Donna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.donnabarnes.com/breakup-recovery/10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you wondering why you're still single even though you keep trying to find love? In this video, dating and relationship coach Donna Barnes explores the real reason why so many men and women can’t find or keep a healthy relationship. If you're tired of being alone, constantly pining over someone you can't have, or frustrated that your relationships never last—this message is for you. Donna shares personal stories and expert advice on how your emotional attachments, unrealistic expectations, and fear of settling might be sabotaging your chances of love. Discover how keeping an open mind, moving past unavailable people, and giving second dates a chance could lead you to the relationship you've been searching for.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.donnabarnes.com/virtual-coaching/#DatingAdvice#WhyYoureStillSingle#RelationshipStrugglesDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex:https://www.donnabarnes.com/breakup-recovery/10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
In this episode, I share deeply personal stories about how giving a “marry me or lose me” ultimatum cost me the love and future I dreamed of. If you’re in a relationship, thinking about marriage, and feeling frustrated because your partner isn’t ready to commit, this video is for you. I explain why ultimatums backfire, how emotional blackmail damages relationships, and what you can do instead to move your relationship forward in a loving, constructive way. Whether you’re tired of being single, want to start a family, or are considering leaving your partner to motivate them, this honest conversation will help you avoid heartbreak and choose a healthier path to love and commitment.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/#RelationshipAdvice #Ultimatum #healthylove Chapters:00:00 Navigating Relationship Ultimatums01:19 Personal Regrets and Lessons Learned02:34 Why Ultimatums Don't Work03:20 My Biggest Mistake (Don't do this!)04:53 Our Relationship Lingered 07:25 The Impact of Ultimatums on Relationships08:28 My Story - Guy #209:07 If You've Never Felt This Way Before...10:14 What Ruined Our Relationship11:45 Attending a Wedding Can be BAD12:45 Commitment Issues13:56 One of my BIGGEST Regrets14:35 Don't Ignore Your Instincts!16:38 What to Do if you Want to Get Married17:09 Why Men Don't Respond to Ultimatums 17:47 Healthy Communication in Relationships18:00 Capping off My Story - Guy #218:45 What You Should Do (Not what I did!)20:21 How to Move Your Relationship Forward21:27 How to Get What You Want23:06 Don't Bail Out!24:06 Escaping the Relationship24:38 Moving Forward Without Manipulation25:37 Did you already give an ultimatum?Donna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Cheating is messy, complicated, and deeply emotional—but should you tell? In this episode of the Broken to Brave Podcast, Donna Barnes dives deep into the controversial question: if you know someone is cheating, do you tell their spouse? We explore why people cheat, what happens when passion collides with commitment, and how to handle forbidden love without destroying lives. Whether you’re married but secretly in love with someone else, struggling with the guilt of an affair, or wondering if you should reveal someone else’s betrayal, this honest relationship advice will help you decide your next step with integrity and clarity. Perfect for those seeking affair advice, marriage guidance, or emotional support for infidelity.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/#InfidelityAdvice#MarriageAndAffairs#ShouldYouTellChapters:00:00 The Complexity of Love and Betrayal01:12 Navigating Relationships and Infidelity02:57 Should You Tell04:21 My Story About a Mistress06:34 The Tangled Web Weaved09:13 Broken Trust10:36 The Love is Gone11:35 The Consequences of Cheating and Moving On
Breaking up is never easy, but ending a relationship the right way can make all the difference in how you and your partner move forward. In this video, Donna Barnes from the Broken to Brave Podcast shares 6 powerful steps on how to break up with someone kindly, clearly, and without causing unnecessary pain. If you’re looking for real relationship advice, better communication skills, or wondering how to end things without ghosting, this video is for you. Whether you’re single and searching for lasting love, or simply want to improve how you handle relationships, these expert tips will help you break up with confidence and compassion—while preparing for the healthy, lasting love you deserve.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/#RelationshipAdvice #HowToBreakUp #healthycommunication Chapters:00:00 Navigating Breakups: The Challenge of Ending Relationships00:49 Ghosting01:34 #1 Heads Up!02:05 The Right Way to Initiate a Breakup Conversation02:50 #2 Kind & Honest03:50 #3 Should We Be Friends?04:31 Communicating Feelings: Honesty Without Hurt05:22 #4 An Honest Conversation06:55 #5 Being Companionate07:16 The Importance of Clarity in Breakups07:46 #6 Lingering 08:57 Final Thoughts on Compassionate BreakupsDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Living together doesn’t always mean staying in love. If you still care deeply about your partner but feel suffocated sharing the same space, it might be time to rethink the living arrangement—not the relationship. In this episode of the Broken to Brave podcast, Donna Barnes explores the powerful concept of living separately while staying together. Discover how personal space, independence, and emotional clarity can actually strengthen your relationship. Whether you're unhappy in your current setup or simply craving more alone time, this might be the solution that saves your love and your sanity.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/#ModernRelationships #livingaparttogether #RelationshipAdviceDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you tired of conversations turning into conflicts instead of deeper connections? In this episode of the Broken to Brave podcast, relationship coach Donna Barnes explores what it really means when someone says, "Can we change the subject?"—and how you can handle it with emotional intelligence and respect. If you're a single man or woman looking for lasting love, mastering communication is essential. Donna shares real-life examples and expert advice on how to respect boundaries, avoid emotional triggers, and navigate sensitive conversations—whether you're on a first date or deep into a long-term relationship. Learn the signs of a healthy communicator versus red flags to watch for, and discover how changing the subject (or not) can make or break your relationship. This video is for anyone who wants real relationship advice that leads to love that lasts.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/#RelationshipAdvice#HealthyCommunication#DatingRedFlagsDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of the Broken to Brave podcast, nationally recognized relationship expert Donna Barnes shares 13 powerful life lessons she wishes she had known earlier in life. Drawing from decades of experience as a model, actor, talk show host, and coach on Good Morning America, Donna delivers invaluable wisdom for single men and women who are looking to find—and keep—the love of their life. Whether you're navigating modern dating, trying to build a deep emotional connection, or wondering how to maintain a healthy, long-term relationship, this video is your guide to building love that lasts. These transformative tips will help you break toxic patterns, set healthy boundaries, and show up as the best version of yourself in love.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/Chapters:00:00 Life Lessons from Experience00:43 1st Tip01:19 Tip #201:45 Tip #302:05 Tip #402:26 Tip #503:05 Tip #603:43 Tip #704:40 Tip #805:26 Tip #905:56 Personal Responsibility and Haters06:13 Tip #1006:41 Tip #1107:33 Tip #1208:30 The Final Tip #1309:10 Embracing Change and Self-Perception09:23 The Takeaway#RelationshipAdvice#FindingLove#healthyrelationships Donna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Can opposite-sex friendships survive once you're in a serious relationship? In this episode of the Broken to Brave podcast, dating and relationship coach Donna Barnes dives deep into the emotional complexities of maintaining long-standing opposite-sex friendships while building trust in a new romantic partnership. If you're falling in love and wondering if it's okay to keep a close friend who shares your partner’s gender, this video is for you. Discover the boundaries, red flags, and communication tools that help couples thrive without losing valuable friendships. Whether you’re dealing with jealousy, insecurity, or simply want to protect the relationship you think could last forever, this conversation offers real talk, honest advice, and actionable strategies.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/#RelationshipBoundaries#OppositeSexFriendships#HealthyRelationshipsDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you a strong, successful woman struggling to attract — and keep — the kind of high-value man you truly desire? In this episode of the Broken to Brave podcast, dating coach Donna Barnes breaks down why your masculine energy might be unintentionally pushing men away. If you're an independent woman who’s tired of being alone, craving lasting love with a confident, masculine partner, this video is for you. Discover the power of choosing submissive feminine energy, how to create emotional intimacy, and why letting him lead doesn’t mean losing your strength. Learn how to shift your energy without compromising who you are — and finally find the relationship that lasts.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/#FeminineEnergy#DatingAdviceForWomen#StrongWomenChapters:00:00 The Challenge of Powerful Women in Relationships01:54 Embracing Vulnerability and Trusting Masculine Energy03:54 Stroke Your Man's Ego!05:54 The Power of Submission as a Choice08:40 How I Learned to Be Vulnerable10:53 Communication and Connection in Relationships12:15 Letting Go of Control and Embracing FemininityDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you questioning whether to break up with your partner, but not entirely sure? In this episode of the Broken to Brave podcast, relationship coach Donna Barnes guides you through the emotional confusion of wanting space while still caring for someone. If you're feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or stuck in a relationship that’s moving too fast—or maybe not moving at all—this video is for you. Learn how to create healthy space, slow things down, and truly discover whether your partner is right for you. Perfect for single men and women who are tired of being alone but refuse to settle, this video will help you move closer to the lasting love you deserve.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/Chapters:00:00 Navigating Relationship Uncertainty01:37 What do you think?01:55 Starting Fast02:49 The Importance of Slowing Down03:40 Feeling Smothered04:34 Distracted by Another05:20 The One That Got Away05:55 Timing and Connection in Relationships06:32 Right Person Wrong Time?07:38 Infatuation#RelationshipAdvice#HowtoBreakUp#FindTheRightPersonDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you stuck in a cycle of toxic relationships, always drawn to the wrong partner? In this episode of Broken to Brave, dating coach Donna Barnes dives deep into why we keep choosing the “devil we know” — partners who reflect unresolved childhood wounds — and how to break that painful pattern. If you're a single man or woman tired of heartbreak, tired of being alone, and ready to find a lasting, healthy relationship, this video is for you. Learn why instant chemistry isn't always the answer, and how to finally choose love that heals instead of hurts. It’s time to stop dating based on old wounds and start building the relationship you truly deserve.The Betrayal Bond https://amzn.to/460DS1iSign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/Chapters:00:00 Understanding the Devil You Know02:37 Identifying Patterns in Relationships05:16 The Importance of Character in Dating08:02 Navigating Attraction and Chemistry11:13 Recognizing Toxic Relationships12:07 Healing from Childhood Wounds#ToxicRelationships#FindTrueLove#BreakTheCycleDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you falling head over heels and wondering when is the right time to say "I love you"? In this episode of the Broken to Brave podcast, dating and relationship coach Donna Barnes dives deep into the emotional, physical, and sexual aspects of intimacy—helping you understand the difference between infatuation and real love. If you're in a new relationship, just met someone you feel could be the one, or you've been burned in the past for saying "I love you" too soon, this video is your essential guide. Learn the signs that you're genuinely ready to express love, how timing can impact emotional connection, and how to avoid sabotaging a budding romance. Whether you're single, newly in love, or searching for something real, this episode will help you protect your heart and deepen your relationship.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro: Should I Say I Love You?00:57 In the Throws of Intimacy01:20 What is Love?01:58 Different Kinds of Intimacy02:27 A HEALTHY Relationship03:15 If Your Partner Says It03:41 True Love04:09 Having Young Kids05:09 This Isn't Love Yet05:20 When to Say I Love You05:40 How You get Hurt05:55 Saying it Too Soon06:26 Love Bombing06:55 Guard Your Heart07:21 Feeling Love Can Be Deceiving07:53 It Slipped Out!08:14 How it's BEST to Say08:50 Let the Man be the Man09:29 Who Should Say it First09:56 Don't Say it Now!10:49 How it Will END your Relationship11:37 The Takeaway12:11 Do You FEEL Loved?#RelationshipAdvice #DatingTips #FallingInLoveDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you tired of failed relationships and feeling frustrated with being single? In this episode of Broken to Brave, Donna Barnes explores the unexpected benefits of being alone—and why solitude might be the key to finally attracting the healthy, lasting love you deserve. If you're a man or woman struggling with heartbreak, loneliness, or constantly jumping from one relationship to another, this video will help you shift your mindset and reclaim your power. Learn how alone time can be your superpower for self-growth, emotional clarity, and making better relationship choices. Don't let loneliness keep you stuck—start becoming the best version of yourself today.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/#HealingAfterHeartbreak #SelfGrowthJourney #powerofbeingalone Chapters:00:00 Intro: Why You Should Be Alone01:02 Going through a Break Up01:17 It's Empowering to be Alone01:42 NOT Feeling Lonely02:22 Don't Waste Your Time02:53 We Can't Control Love03:53 I Was A Serial Monogamist04:41 It's Good to be alone04:59 Therapist Can Be Biased05:56 My Story06:15 A DEFINING Question06:45 The Best Thing07:06 Trying to be Perfect07:40 Good Enough08:42 Let Me Give You a New Thought09:30 Alone Time is Creative11:06 Biggest Benefit of Being alone11:39 Making Bad Choices12:14 Knowledge is Power12:55 Choose a Good Partner14:16 Comfortable with SilenceDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
If you've ever been ghosted by someone you truly connected with, this episode is for you. In Why You Were Ghosted, dating and relationship coach Donna Barnes unpacks the real reasons why ghosting happens and why it's not your fault. Whether you're heartbroken, hoping to get back with your ex, or done with rebound relationships and ready for something real, this video will help you reframe your experience and finally let go. Learn how to stop chasing unavailable partners, understand the psychology of ghosting, and start attracting the lasting, emotionally available love you deserve. Watch now and turn heartbreak into growth.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.breakup.expert/ #Ghosted #BreakupAdvice #getoveryourex Chapters:00:00 Intro: Ghosting is Horrendous01:09 How Long You Were Together01:28 Did You Meet on an App?01:39 Story: Addicted to "Shopping" Girls02:37 Still on an App While Committed03:24 The Allure of Dating Apps04:00 Why it's Complicated04:17 If You Met on an App04:25 Don't Ask, Don't Tell!!!04:43 Why Ghosting is Common04:50 Story: Why You Weren't Chosen05:44 Ghosted for a Reason06:28 Ghosted Before You Got Started07:13 Did Your Lifestyle Match?07:50 Not Exactly Alike08:31 What's Most Important08:51 How Differences Work09:25 So You've Been Ghosted09:43 Why You Were Ghosted10:21 How to Get Over Being Ghosted10:56 I Get It11:23 The Takeaway12:16 Coaching with MeDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you struggling to move on from an ex who just won’t go away? In this episode of Broken to Brave, Donna Barnes reveals how to recognize the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs of a jealous ex who’s still trying to control you—even after the breakup. If your ex is texting you late at night, popping up in places they know you'll be, or staying close to your friends and family, it's likely not love—it’s manipulation. Learn how to set strong boundaries, protect your peace, and finally move forward. Whether you're tired of being alone, confused by your ex's mixed signals, or desperate to break free from emotional limbo, this video will help you regain control of your life and heart. Don’t let a jealous ex keep you stuck—watch now and take your power back.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.breakup.expert/ #excameback #BreakupRecovery #moveonstrong Chapters:00:00 Intro: Ex Still in Your Life01:26 Story: What My Ex Did02:22 How it's Manipulative02:36 Set Boundaries03:28 Ask Your Friends to Help04:16 How to be Happy04:34 More About My Story05:09 Why 100% Out05:24 Trying to Move On06:40 If You're Done with Your Ex!07:02 If Your Ex is Playing Victim07:39 Your Ex is Love Bombing 08:32 You Can't Be Friends09:19 Social Media10:01 What's Your Story?10:29 I'm Here For You!Donna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Struggling to find and keep a healthy relationship? If you're constantly overthinking your texts, over-explaining your intentions, and still ending up single, this video is for you. In this episode of the Broken to Brave Podcast, Donna Barnes dives deep into the hidden ways overthinking and over-explaining sabotage dating success and connection. Learn why your need to be understood might be pushing love away, how anxiety and abandonment issues fuel mental spirals, and how to finally break the cycle of self-sabotage. If you're tired of being alone and replaying every date in your head, this is the mindset shift you’ve been needing.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/#DatingAdvice #Overthinking #relationshipstruggles Chapters:00:00 Intro: Do You Feel Heard?01:28 What is Overthinking?02:14 Overthinking Your Dates02:25 How You Break Your Own Heart03:06 How Overthinking Hurts Us03:57 Communication04:38 The Downside05:02 Fantasies05:40 The Power of Now05:48 Struggling to Get Over Your Ex06:06 Why We Overthink06:27 Actions to Take06:43 Story: How I Overthink07:22 Someone Important to You07:41 Miscommunicating08:55 The Key Steps10:00 Talk to Someone10:32 Over-Explaining10:54 Coaching Story11:47 The Receiver's POV 12:07 How to Get a Quick Response12:42 If You Don't Get Replies13:26 Funny Childhood Story13:53 I'm a Talker14:41 The Takeaway14:57 What it Comes Down To15:28 Breaking Your Own HeartDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
Are you tired of falling for the wrong people, feeling frustrated with short-lived relationships, or constantly ending up hurt and alone? In this episode of the Broken to Brave podcast, Donna Barnes breaks down the powerful role that healthy boundaries play in helping you avoid toxic relationships and attract lasting love. Learn how to stop being a people-pleaser, recognize red flags early, and communicate your needs confidently—so you can finally build the fulfilling, emotionally safe relationship you deserve. Whether you're struggling with narcissistic partners or just tired of dating disappointments, this video will empower you to take back control of your love life.Sign up for Virtual Coaching with me: https://www.nydatingcoach.com/Chapters:00:00 Intro Don't make this Mistake01:25 How to Hold a Boundary02:00 Bait and Switch02:29 Success with Relationships02:48 The Art of Saying NO03:17 Story: Consequences of being a YES person04:24 The Moral of the Story05:02 Swept off Your Feet05:29 Identify a Narcissist 06:27 A Great Clue06:55 How Toxic Relationships Start07:21 Story: My Toxic Relationship07:42 Great Advice!08:06 How to Avoid an Argument09:12 YES People10:00 You Have the Power10:19 The Takeaway#HealthyBoundaries #ToxicRelationships #DatingAdviceDonna Barnes is an New York University Certified Love Coach, Breakup Specialist, Podcast Host, and Author of Giving Up Junk-Food Relationships: Recipes for Healthy Choices. https://amzn.to/3gFykPSThe TRUTH About Healing Your Broken Heart: My Online Course to virtually hold your hand and help you get over your ex: https://www.breakuprecoveryplan.com10+ HOURS of COACHING VIDEOS, QUIZZES, CHECKLISTS, & MORE
