Understanding Narcissism in Manufactured Conflict

In this episode, we dive into the mind of a narcissist to uncover why they seem to thrive on conflict and chaos. Ever wondered why narcissists can turn the simplest situation into a battlefield? This behaviour isn’t random; it’s calculated, and today, we’re pulling back the curtain to understand what’s really driving their need for drama.

We explore key tactics narcissists use to create conflict, such as twisting words, exaggerating situations, and outright fabricating stories. For example, they might turn a minor misunderstanding into a full-blown feud, all while playing the victim. Sound familiar?

We'll also discuss why this manufactured conflict is essential for their control. Narcissists use conflict to manipulate, distract, and keep people on edge. Whether you’re dealing with a narcissistic partner, parent, colleague, or friend, understanding this strategy can help you recognise it for what it is and avoid being drawn into their games.

Plus, I’ll share real-life examples from my counselling practice.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer picture of why narcissists manufacture conflict and practical tips for protecting your peace. Tune in for strategies to help you step back, stay calm, and see through the chaos.


If you found this episode informative, I would absolutely love it if you could rate this podcast, leave a review, and please share, Share, SHARE! Help to spread awareness around Narcissistic Abuse, so there's more support and justice for survivors!
Nova xx

You can book an online counseling appointment with me or book me to speak at your event here

You can purchase a copy of my book ‘Fake Love – Understanding and Healing from narcissistic Abuse’ here

Join me on Facebook here

Join the private Facebook discussion group here

Join me on Instagram here

https://buymeacoffee.com/novagibson

Send us a text

Thankyou so much for listening!
Please remember the information you hear in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy, is general information, and strictly the opinions of the host based on her years of experience working with thousands of victims of narcissistic abuse.

If you would like to make an appointment for individual counselling with me , please visit my website at ,Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling Service , or email me at nova.pollard123gmail.com

To order a copy of my book - Fake love please click Here
or simply go directly to Amazon

I looove creating these episodes, but they do take time. If you'd like to support me to continue creating more podcast episodes, then please click here to .Buy me a coffee

10 Behaviours of the Ageing Narcissist.

As narcissists age, their tactics and behaviours often shift, sometimes becoming more manipulative and harmful. In this episode, I’ll walk you through 10 key behaviours of the ageing narcissist, offering insights into what drives these changes and how they impact those around them.

You might notice that their charm no longer works as effectively as it used to, leaving them desperate for validation. Or perhaps they’re leaning even more heavily on guilt-tripping to maintain control, especially over family members. I’ll share real-life examples from my counselling practice, such as the ageing parent who weaponises their declining health to manipulate their adult children.

We’ll discuss the ageing narcissist’s deep fear of irrelevance, which can drive attention-seeking behaviours, and how their lack of self-awareness makes them even harder to reason with. From their refusal to take responsibility for past mistakes to their tendency to rewrite history to suit their narrative, you’ll learn how these behaviours are rooted in their fragile ego and fear of losing control.

If you’re dealing with an ageing narcissist in your life—whether it’s a parent, partner, or colleague—this episode is for you!

Tune in to better understand the complexities of the ageing narcissist and take one step closer to reclaiming your peace.

Send us a text

Thankyou so much for listening!
Please remember the information you hear in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy, is general information, and strictly the opinions of the host based on her years of experience working with thousands of victims of narcissistic abuse.

If you would like to make an appointment for individual counselling with me , please visit my website at ,Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling Service , or email me at nova.pollard123gmail.com

To order a copy of my book - Fake love please click Here
or simply go directly to Amazon

I looove creating these episodes, but they do take time. If you'd like to support me to continue creating more podcast episodes, then please click here to .Buy me a coffee

How do You Set Boundaries After Narcissistic Abuse?

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How can I start setting boundaries after everything I’ve been through?” this episode of Fake Love and Flying Monkeys is exactly what you need. Boundaries are essential for healing after narcissistic abuse, but they can feel like unfamiliar territory when you’ve spent so much time walking on eggshells or putting someone else’s needs ahead of your own.

In today’s episode, we’ll break down what boundaries really are (hint: they’re not about being selfish, despite what a narcissist might say!) and why they’re critical for your recovery. We’ll talk about the common struggles survivors face when setting boundaries, like fear of conflict, guilt, or not knowing where to start.

I’ll share actionable tips for creating healthy boundaries—whether it’s with a narcissistic ex, a toxic family member, or even in new relationships—and how to stick to them without backing down. We’ll also discuss how to handle the inevitable pushback from a narcissist and why their reaction doesn’t define your worth.

If you’re ready to take your power back, protect your peace, and finally put yourself first, this episode is your guide. Let’s dive into the “how” of setting boundaries and start building the life you deserve.


If you found this episode informative, I would absolutely love it if you could rate this podcast, leave a review, and please share, Share, SHARE! Help to spread awareness around Narcissistic Abuse, so there's more support and justice for survivors!
Nova xx

You can book an online counseling appointment with me or book me to speak at your event here

You can purchase a copy of my book ‘Fake Love – Understanding and Healing from narcissistic Abuse’ here

Join me on Facebook here

Join the private Facebook discussion group here

Join me on Instagram here

https://buymeacoffee.com/novagibson

Send us a text

Thankyou so much for listening!
Please remember the information you hear in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy, is general information, and strictly the opinions of the host based on her years of experience working with thousands of victims of narcissistic abuse.

If you would like to make an appointment for individual counselling with me , please visit my website at ,Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling Service , or email me at nova.pollard123gmail.com

To order a copy of my book - Fake love please click Here
or simply go directly to Amazon

I looove creating these episodes, but they do take time. If you'd like to support me to continue creating more podcast episodes, then please click here to .Buy me a coffee

20 Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Tips for 2025 – Happy New Year!

Welcome to a brand-new year and a fresh chapter in your healing journey! In this empowering episode I share 20 transformative tips to help you recover from narcissistic abuse in 2025. Whether you’ve just left a toxic relationship or are deep in the healing process, these practical strategies will inspire hope and give you the tools you need to thrive.

From setting boundaries that stick, to breaking free from trauma bonds, I explain how to prioritise your well-being, rebuild your self-esteem, and create a brighter future.

This episode is packed with actionable advice to start the year strong, reminding you that healing is possible and that 2025 can be the year you reclaim your power. So grab a notebook, settle in, and join me for a motivational start to the new year.

Listen now to 20 Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Tips for 2025 and step confidently into a year of growth and healing!
Nova ♥️

To book a zoom counselling session with me please visit my website below 👇
www.brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au

To order your copy of my best-selling book - Fake Love - Understanding and Healing from Narcissistic Abuse, please see link below 👇
https://linktr.ee/novagibson

Send us a text

Thankyou so much for listening!
Please remember the information you hear in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy, is general information, and strictly the opinions of the host based on her years of experience working with thousands of victims of narcissistic abuse.

If you would like to make an appointment for individual counselling with me , please visit my website at ,Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling Service , or email me at nova.pollard123gmail.com

To order a copy of my book - Fake love please click Here
or simply go directly to Amazon

I looove creating these episodes, but they do take time. If you'd like to support me to continue creating more podcast episodes, then please click here to .Buy me a coffee

Your first Christmas No Contact with the Narcissist.

In this episode we dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster of going no contact with a narcissistic family or partner for the first time during Christmas. The first Christmas of no contact can produce a myriad of emotions from sadness to anger to relief and peace.

You might be feeling torn perhaps, wondering if you've made the right choice around no-contact and battling feelings of guilt. Maybe you have others (Flying Monkeys) telling you to "be the bigger person", making you feel obligated to attend to keep everyone else happy. There might even be feelings of loneliness as you think of others celebrating, while you're left questioning what "family" really means.

But this isn’t just about surviving this Christmas —it's about reclaiming your peace and setting boundaries that protect you.

Listen to this episode to understand the situations that typically take place to get you to break no contact, that your feelings are valid, and the importance of maintaining rock solid boundaries.

If you found this episode informative, I would absolutely love it if you could rate this podcast, leave a review, and please share, Share, SHARE! Help to spread awareness around Narcissistic Abuse, so there's more support and justice for survivors!
Nova xx

You can book an online counseling appointment with me or book me to speak at your event here

You can purchase a copy of my book ‘Fake Love – Understanding and Healing from narcissistic Abuse’ here

Join me on Facebook here

Join the private Facebook discussion group here

Join me on Instagram here

https://buymeacoffee.com/novagibson

Send us a text

Thankyou so much for listening!
Please remember the information you hear in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy, is general information, and strictly the opinions of the host based on her years of experience working with thousands of victims of narcissistic abuse.

If you would like to make an appointment for individual counselling with me , please visit my website at ,Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling Service , or email me at nova.pollard123gmail.com

To order a copy of my book - Fake love please click Here
or simply go directly to Amazon

I looove creating these episodes, but they do take time. If you'd like to support me to continue creating more podcast episodes, then please click here to .Buy me a coffee

"Wolf of Wall Street"s ex wife Dr Nadine Macaluso, shares her story.

In this episode I speak with the inspirational Dr. Nadine Macaluso, known to her patients as Dr. Nae. Dr Nae is the real-life inspiration behind Naomi Belfort's character in "The Wolf of Wall Street." She survived a turbulent eight-year marriage to Jordan Belfort, marked by abuse, greed, and trauma.
Following her experiences, Dr. Macaluso relocated to California. Her journey of trauma and healing inspired her to return to school at age 39, where she earned her Master's in counseling and a Ph.D. in somatic psychotherapy. She further specialized with a two-year postdoctoral training in the Neuro-affective Relational Model (NARM).

As a therapist, Dr. Macaluso combines her education and personal experiences to help others heal from trauma. Her practice focuses on assisting patients in connecting with their authentic selves, fostering confidence, resilience, and agency. Dr. Macaluso firmly believes in the potential for post-traumatic growth, instilling hope in her patients and guiding them to reach their potential in life and love.
Enjoy!


If you found this episode informative, I would absolutely love it if you could rate this podcast, leave a review, and please share, Share, SHARE! Help to spread awareness around Narcissistic Abuse, so there's more support and justice for survivors!
Nova xx

You can book an online counseling appointment with me or book me to speak at your event here

You can purchase a copy of my book ‘Fake Love – Understanding and Healing from narcissistic Abuse’ here

Join me on Facebook here

Join the private Facebook discussion group here

Join me on Instagram here

https://buymeacoffee.com/novagibson

Send us a text

Thankyou so much for listening!
Please remember the information you hear in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy, is general information, and strictly the opinions of the host based on her years of experience working with thousands of victims of narcissistic abuse.

If you would like to make an appointment for individual counselling with me , please visit my website at ,Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling Service , or email me at nova.pollard123gmail.com

To order a copy of my book - Fake love please click Here
or simply go directly to Amazon

I looove creating these episodes, but they do take time. If you'd like to support me to continue creating more podcast episodes, then please click here to .Buy me a coffee

The Female Narcissist Abuse Strategies.

In this episode I talk about the female narcissist and the toxic abuse strategies she uses. Narcissistic abuse is not gender and female narcissists (Mothers,"Friends", Colleagues and Bosses) can be just as destructive as their male counterpart.

Female narcissists and male narcissists share core traits like a lack of empathy, a sense of entitlement, a need for control, and an insatiable need for attention. However, female abusers can often be harder to identify due to societal expectations and stereotypes. The female narcissist knows how to use these stereotypes to her advantage!

If you have a female narcissist in your life or you know someone that does, then you don't want to miss this episode!

If you found this episode informative, I would absolutely love it if you could rate this podcast, leave a review, and please share, Share, SHARE! Help to spread awareness around Narcissistic Abuse, so there's more support and justice for survivors!
Nova xx

You can book an online counseling appointment with me or book me to speak at your event here

You can purchase a copy of my book ‘Fake Love – Understanding and Healing from narcissistic Abuse’ here

Join me on Facebook here

Join the private Facebook discussion group here

Join me on Instagram here

https://buymeacoffee.com/novagibson

Send us a text

Thankyou so much for listening!
Please remember the information you hear in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy, is general information, and strictly the opinions of the host based on her years of experience working with thousands of victims of narcissistic abuse.

If you would like to make an appointment for individual counselling with me , please visit my website at ,Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling Service , or email me at nova.pollard123gmail.com

To order a copy of my book - Fake love please click Here
or simply go directly to Amazon

I looove creating these episodes, but they do take time. If you'd like to support me to continue creating more podcast episodes, then please click here to .Buy me a coffee

Healing From Narcissistic Abuse - The Benefits of Journaling with Amanda Stern.

In this episode, I'm joined by Amanda Stern. Amanda provides amazing insights into healing from narcissistic abuse through journaling. She empowers her clients and community to embrace journaling as a path to self-discovery, self-compassion, and self-love so they can own their worth, find success on their own terms, and write their way to a life they love.
We discuss how journaling helps you process those confusing and painful emotions, gain clarity, and rebuild your self-esteem after being entangled in a toxic relationship. Amanda shares practical tips on getting started, even if you’ve never journaled before, and how to use it to reflect on your experiences and track your growth.

You’ll learn why journaling isn’t just about venting but about reclaiming your voice, uncovering your authentic self, and creating a safe space to express thoughts you may not feel ready to share with others.

If you found this episode informative, I would absolutely love it if you could rate this podcast, leave a review, and please share, Share, SHARE! Help to spread awareness around Narcissistic Abuse, so there's more support and justice for survivors!
Nova xx

You can book an online counseling appointment with me or book me to speak at your event here

You can purchase a copy of my book ‘Fake Love – Understanding and Healing from narcissistic Abuse’ here

Join me on Facebook here

Join the private Facebook discussion group here

Join me on Instagram here

https://buymeacoffee.com/novagibson

Send us a text

Thankyou so much for listening!
Please remember the information you hear in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy, is general information, and strictly the opinions of the host based on her years of experience working with thousands of victims of narcissistic abuse.

If you would like to make an appointment for individual counselling with me , please visit my website at ,Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling Service , or email me at nova.pollard123gmail.com

To order a copy of my book - Fake love please click Here
or simply go directly to Amazon

I looove creating these episodes, but they do take time. If you'd like to support me to continue creating more podcast episodes, then please click here to .Buy me a coffee