EPISODE · Jun 15, 2026 · 30 MIN
Seeing The System In Toxic Relationships with Carine Van Hee
from Mind Meets Machine · host Avik
Send us Fan MailThat late night thought, “Was I too much?” can feel like the final verdict on a relationship. But what if the confusion wasn’t evidence that you’re broken, and was actually part of the pattern that kept you stuck?We sit down with Carine Van Hee, survivor, visual artist, and author of *Is It Me? The Hidden System Behind Toxic Relationships*, to make the invisible visible. We talk about why toxic people are not toxic all the time, how the relationship can swing between safety and threat, and why that inconsistency fuels rumination, shame, and self doubt. We dig into the “fairy tale” beginning, the slow drip of boundary pushing, and the push pull dynamic that can reel you back in just when you’re ready to leave. Along the way, we name familiar tactics like gaslighting and silent treatment, while staying grounded in what they do to your nervous system and your sense of identity.If something feels off but you can’t prove it, you’ll hear practical ways to create breathing room: pausing before you respond, noticing red flags like constant mental replay, and getting support from people who truly understand toxic relationship dynamics and narcissistic traits. We also get real about recovery: therapy, meditation, self care, and why setbacks don’t erase progress once you’ve seen the system.If this resonates, share it with someone who might be quietly asking “Is it me?”, and please subscribe and leave a review so more people can find this conversation.Support the showWant to Be a Guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? 👉 DM me on PodMatch 💬 Want to come on the show? Be a Guest 🌐 Explore the full network | 📨 Newsletter | 👥 LinkedIn CommunityThis isn't self-help. It's self-honesty.💼 Sponsor Our Show | 🎬 Check Our Services📌 Disclaimer This episode is for educational and informational purposes only. Guest views are personal and do not represent the host or Healthy Mind by Avik™. The Network does not verify or endorse guest statements. Nothing here is medical, legal, financial, or professional advice, please consult a qualified professional. Engage critically. Third-party content referenced under fair use. Guests are responsible for their own statements. Concerns? Contact us | Full disclaimer.By listening, you accept this disclaimer in full.
What this episode covers
Send us Fan Mail That late night thought, “Was I too much?” can feel like the final verdict on a relationship. But what if the confusion wasn’t evidence that you’re broken, and was actually part of the pattern that kept you stuck? We sit down with Carine Van Hee, survivor, visual artist, and author of *Is It Me? The Hidden System Behind Toxic Relationships*, to make the invisible visible. We talk about why toxic people are not toxic all the time, how the relationship can swing between safety...
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Seeing The System In Toxic Relationships with Carine Van Hee
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