Resentment isn’t a flaw in your character—it’s evidence of how long you’ve been carrying someone else’s emotional load. In covert narcissistic relationships, resentment begins long before you realize what’s happening. In this episode, Renee unpacks how resentment forms, why it’s really an act of self-preservation, and how to transform it into clarity, boundaries, and release.

If your brain won’t stop imagining the worst, you’re not broken — you’re trauma-trained. In this episode, Renee shares how to break free from catastrophic thinking after covert narcissistic abuse using simple, compassionate tools that help you calm your mind and retrain your brain for peace.

We’ve all heard it—‘But they had a rough childhood.’ And while empathy is beautiful, compassion without boundaries is self-destruction. Their past might explain their pain, but it doesn’t excuse their choices. In this episode, we talk about how to hold space for someone’s story without living inside it—and why protecting your peace is the most compassionate thing you can do for both of you.

Knowing you’re being triangulated doesn’t make it stop. In this episode, Renee shares how to handle triangulation while you’re still in the relationship, after you’ve left, and when your kids are being pulled into it. Learn to stay calm, protect your peace, and model safety in the middle of chaos.

When communication twists into confusion, you’re likely caught in a narcissist’s triangle. In this episode, Renee unpacks how covert narcissists control the narrative and quietly turn loved ones against each other — through two powerful real-life stories and insights on how to recognize and heal from triangulation.

Sarma Melngailis, best known from Netflix’s Bad Vegan, joins me to reveal the story the headlines never told. In this first part, she opens up about covert narcissistic abuse, the traits that made her vulnerable, and how self-awareness became her path to healing. A powerful look at resilience, reflection, and reclaiming your voice after manipulation.

When years of emotional invalidation finally push you past your limit, you might snap — and afterward, the shame feels unbearable. But that reaction doesn’t define you. In this episode, Renee Swanson explains what’s really happening when you lose your composure with a covert narcissist, why it’s not proof that something’s “wrong” with you, and how to move toward self-forgiveness without taking on their blame.

Fifteen survivors. One safe space. CNG retreat. What happened when fear and silence gave way to honesty and connection? The healing was powerful—and I want to share it with you.

Why does a covert narcissist see your truth, feelings, boundaries, and growth as threats? In this episode, we break down why your authentic self feels so dangerous to them—and why that’s actually your greatest path to freedom. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes on covert narcissism, emotional abuse recovery, and reclaiming your life.

In Part 2 of my interview with Caryn Dixon, we talk about why it often takes multiple attempts to leave covert narcissistic abuse and how sharing our stories creates hope and freedom for others still trapped.

What happens when you stop pouring all your energy into someone else and start investing it back into yourself? In a healthy relationship, self-care is welcomed and celebrated. But in a relationship with a covert narcissist, the shift exposes the truth—through explosions, implosions, and childlike tantrums. In this episode, Renee explores how pulling back your supply reveals the genuine nature of your relationship, and why your worth is never found in giving yourself away.

Singer-songwriter Caryn Dixon opens up about the hidden abuse behind the “perfect couple” image and the inspiration for her new EP Bird in a Cage. Part 1 of her story explores silence, self-doubt, and the journey of turning pain into music.

This episode is a tribute to Mary, a member of our community whose story ended too soon. In honoring her life, her strength, and her sacrifices, we also honor every survivor of covert narcissistic abuse who feels invisible and unheard. Your story matters. You matter.

Leaving a covert narcissist isn’t one goodbye—it’s three. In this episode, I break down the physical, emotional, and mental stages of leaving, why each one feels different, and tools you can use to finally find freedom.

You’ve tried everything. And nothing changes. He sees it in his father. His brother. But not in himself. You hold up the mirror—and he turns it back on you. 🎧 Endless Attempts, Zero Progress: Can a Covert Narcissist Ever Wake Up? New episode out now on The Covert Narcissism Podcast.

With a covert narcissist, the words may sound the same. But the intent? Completely different. In this episode, we unpack why it’s not what they said—it’s how they said it."

Welcome to Covert Narcissism 102. Part Two of our series: the advanced curriculum in chaos, history rewrites, and hijacking holidays — complete with a final exam you never signed up for.

Welcome to Covert Narcissism 101. Part One of our two-part series: how to apologize without apologizing, deny the undeniable, and ruin your partner’s peace of mind while looking like the nicest person in the room.