Episode #85: When Toxic Families Turn on You

This episode is for anyone who has ever asked: “Why am I still paying the price for someone else’s abuse?”In this powerful episode of Surviving Toxic Relationships, hosts Deana and Lizzie sit down with Joni Woods, a certified life coach, culture strategist, and founder of Journey Coaching, to discuss what happens after you leave a toxic or narcissistic relationship—especially when the family system turns against you.Joni shares her deeply personal story of surviving narcissistic abuse, navigating a contentious divorce, and enduring the devastating aftermath when her ex-husband passed away and his family turned their anger toward her and her children. What followed was court battles, emotional trauma, and the painful reality of watching her children suffer collateral damage from unresolved bitterness and manipulation.Together, we explore:How narcissistic abuse impacts children long after a relationship endsWhy toxic family systems often protect the abuserThe emotional intelligence skills survivors need to heal and lead their families forwardHow to communicate boundaries without guilt or fearRecognizing when you’re staying out of fear instead of safety or truthWhat it looks like to parent through trauma with honesty and resilienceIf you are a survivor of emotional abuse, narcissistic relationships, or family trauma—and you’re trying to protect your children while rebuilding your life—this conversation will leave you feeling seen, validated, and empowered.You can find Joni Woods and her work through the link below.https://journeylifecoaching.life/🎙️ Stay Connected with Us! 📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12 🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @survivingtoxicrel 🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.orgLooking to be a guest or host a guest for your podcast?https://www.joinpodmatch.com/deanalizzie📘 Our book is available on Amazon:  Love With Eyes Wide Open: Teaching Our Daughters to Recognize Red Flags and God's Voice in RelationshipsNot sure what you’re actually seeing in your relationship?           ↓  Get your FREE Discernment Checklist ↓                                                                 https://the-matadoras.kit.com/survivingtoxicrelationshipsContact us anytime at our email:  [email protected] 📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships Disclaimer:  The views expressed by our guests are their own, and this show is for educational purposes only. It is not therapy, medical, or professional advice, and listening does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you need personalized support, please reach out to a licensed professional. If you’re in crisis or immediate danger, please call 911 for help. ...