Ep. 33 - The Science of Gaslighting: How Reality Gets Distorted and How to Reclaim It

In this episode of 'The Unstressed Exec,' Dr. George Vergolias, an executive coach and clinical forensic psychologist, delves into the insidious and destabilizing nature of gaslighting. Dr. Vergolias clarifies what gaslighting is and isn't, differentiating it from healthy disagreement, and explores its reliance on power asymmetry.   He outlines the psychological and neurological mechanisms behind gaslighting, explaining why it causes self-doubt and weakened confidence. The episode also provides practical advice on how to recognize, respond to, and recover from gaslighting, emphasizing the importance of self-trust and emotional regulation.   00:00 Introduction to The Unstressed Exec 01:33 Understanding Gaslighting 03:55 The Role of Power in Gaslighting 07:24 Neuroscience Behind Gaslighting 12:05 Common Gaslighting Phrases 17:07 Who Gaslights and Why 23:30 How to Reclaim Your Reality 25:19 Conclusion and Next Steps   Get the Conflict Whisperer Workbook! If you’re finding value in these episodes and want to go deeper, check out my workbook: “The Conflict Whisperer: From Conflict to Clarity : A No-Nonsense Guide to Managing Conflict in Every Relationship.” It’s packed with real-world strategies, over 75 reflection exercises, and neuroscience-backed tools to help you navigate conflict without losing your cool — at work, at home, or in moments of personal crisis. Whether you’re going through a breakup, managing tension with a partner, or leading under pressure, this workbook gives you a practical roadmap to turn conflict into clarity. You can grab your copy now on Amazon — here is the link below 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Conflict-Whisperer-Workbook-no-nonsense-relationship/dp/1835565514/ref=monarch_sidesheet_title   About the Host – The Unstressed Exec Meet Dr. George Vergolias — a clinical and forensic corporate psychologist turned executive coach with 20+ years at the intersection of leadership, mental resilience, and high performance. George has advised Fortune 500 companies, guided C-suite leaders through crisis, and coached high-achievers to reclaim clarity, calm, and purpose without losing their edge. On The Unstressed Exec, George brings powerful insights from the boardroom to the mic — helping leaders navigate stress, burnout, conflict, and transformation with practical tools and no-BS wisdom. If you're ready to lead with strength and sanity, tune in. And when you're ready to go deeper, reach out for one-on-one executive or leadership coaching. This isn’t therapy — it’s your next level. Let’s build the life and leadership you actually want.   🎯 Listen. Grow. Lead — at The Unstressed Exec 📩 Stay Connected: Website: www.theunstressedexec.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.unstressed.exec TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.unstressed.exec Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.unstressed.exec YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The_Unstressed_Exec   If you like The Unstressed Exec podcast please leave me a review and rate! For more info on my coaching services, keynote speaking and guest speaker/podcast opportunities, please visit my website at: www.theunstressedexec.com