Divorcing a Narcissist, Codependency, Setting Boundaries, and Co-Parenting with a Difficult Ex with Karen McMahon | Episode 55

Divorcing a Narcissist in Colorado: Codependency, Boundaries, and Co-Parenting StrategiesIn this episode of Divorce at Altitude, Ryan Kalamaya is joined by divorce coach Karen McMahon, host of the Journey Beyond Divorce podcast, to discuss divorcing a narcissist, codependency, and how to set boundaries in high-conflict divorce and co-parenting. Karen explains what divorce coaching is and how it supports clients (and attorneys) by helping people manage fear, triggers, and decision-making—especially around parenting time and finances.They break down common narcissistic dynamics like black-and-white thinking, revisionist history, deflection, and blame-shifting, and explain why the codependent partner often feels stuck in constant reactivity.Guest InformationKaren McMahon is a divorce coach and the host of the Journey Beyond Divorce podcast. She and her team have coached clients worldwide since 2010, helping people navigate divorce transitions with emotional clarity and practical strategy—especially in high-conflict situations involving narcissistic dynamics. Her work focuses on calming reactivity, strengthening boundaries, and supporting healthier decision-making throughout the divorce process.Episode OutlineWhat a Divorce Coach Does How coaching helps people move through divorce emotionally and practically—and supports the attorney-client relationship.Signs You’re Divorcing a Narcissist Black-and-white thinking, revisionist history, deflection, blame, and “rent-free” mental space.Why High-Conflict Divorce Needs a Bigger Support Team Common professionals involved and why outsiders often see through charisma and manipulation.Codependency and Self-Love Deficiency Caretaking, people-pleasing, over-functioning, and why “divorcing the problem” can repeat the pattern.Boundaries That Actually Work Internal boundaries (“he made me feel…” vs. “I felt…”), leaving hostile interactions, and limiting engagement.Co-Parenting With Difficult Exes Bulletproof agreements, predictable exchange issues, proactive planning, and reducing triggers for kids.Helping Kids Navigate a Difficult Parent Building emotional awareness, resilience, and healthy boundaries—without demonizing the other parent.What is Divorce at Altitude? Ryan Kalamaya and Amy Goscha provide tips and recommendations on issues related to divorce, separation, and co-parenting in Colorado. Ryan and Amy are the founding partners of an innovative and ambitious law firm, Kalamaya | Goscha, that pushes the boundaries to discover new frontiers in family law, personal injuries, and criminal defense in Colorado. To subscribe to Divorce at Altitude, click here and select your favorite podcast player. To subscribe to Kalamaya | Goscha's YouTube channel where many of the episodes will be posted as videos, click here.  If you have additional questions or would like to speak to one of our attorneys, give us a call at 970-429-5784 or email us at [email protected].************************************************************************DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS ON THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL ADVICE. CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE OR AREA TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY OF THESE ISSUES.