Fake Love and Flying Monkeys
by Nova Gibson
A Toxic relationship and Fake love looks real—until it destroys you. Welcome to Fake Love and Flying Monkeys, the podcast that exposes the hidden dynamics of toxic relationships, narcissistic abuse, and emotional manipulation. Hosted by Nova Gibson, leading trauma-informed counsellor and Director of Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling, this podcast is your guide to breaking free from the confusion, fear, and self-doubt that come with being entangled with a narcissist. In every episode, Nova draws from years of experience working with survivors to explore the complex, often covert tactics used in emotionally abusive relationships—from gaslighting, triangulation, and the silent treatment to smear campaigns and intermittent reinforcement. Whether you're struggling with a narcissistic partner, parent, boss, or friend, Fake Love and Flying Monkeys gives you the tools and knowledge to understand the abuse, trust your instincts, and reclaim your power—even
Episodes
-
Why You Keep Loving the Wrong People
Why do smart, empathic people keep ending up in emotionally painful relationships? In this first episode of 2026, I unpack why loving the wrong people isn’t a flaw — it’s conditioning. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my…
more -
When Narcissistic Abuse and Coercive Control Turn Dangerous
Trigger warning: Abuse doesn’t always start with obvious violence — it often begins with intimidation, manipulation, and control. The slammed fist into the wall beside your head, a plate hurled that just misses, your car blocked in so you can’t leave, or the threat of suicide if you try to walk...
-
The Narcissist’s Breaking Point: When You’re Gone for Good
For a narcissist, the most terrifying moment isn’t when you argue, fight, or even walk out the door. Their real breaking point comes when they finally realise you are never coming back. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my…
more -
Covert Narcissist Friends: There's never just ONE narcissist Around You!
Ever wondered why some friendships leave you feeling drained, anxious, or doubting yourself? It might not be you — it could be a covert narcissist hiding in plain sight. In this episode, we dive into the subtle but serious dangers of having a covert narcissist friend. (For 1 on 1 online…
more -
You Might Be in a Narcissistic Relationship If..…
Ever find yourself constantly second-guessing your reality, apologising for things you didn’t do, or walking on eggshells to avoid someone’s anger? These are not just “relationship problems” — they may be signs you’re caught in the cycle of narcissistic abuse. (For 1:1 online counselling/support…
more -
The Black Widow Female Narcissist: Why She Emasculates Her Victim
The female narcissist is often compared to a black widow spider — alluring, seductive, and deadly to her prey. In relationships, her weapon of choice is emasculation. She strips her victim of confidence, ridicules his masculinity, and weaves a web of control that leaves him doubting his worth.…
more -
Behind the Perfect Mask of the Narcissistic Family
To outsiders, narcissistic families often appear flawless—supportive parents, successful children, and a picture-perfect life. Yet beneath the surface lies manipulation, control, and emotional abuse that remain hidden from the public eye. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic...
-
Covert Narcissist Texting Mind Games
What do you do when the narcissist’s texts flip between “I love you” and radio silence? In this episode of Fake Love and Flying Monkeys, I break down the real meaning behind their late-night messages, sudden love bombs, ghosting tactics, and manipulative wordplay. (For 1 on 1 online counselling…
more -
Narcissistic Rage Exposed: Why They Explode
Ever been hit with anger that comes out of nowhere — and somehow leaves you questioning yourself? In this episode of Fake Love and Flying Monkeys, I dive into narcissistic rage: what it really is, why narcissists explode over seemingly “nothing,” and why it’s never your fault. (For 1 on 1 online...
-
When the Narcissist Says 'Let’s be Friends': What They Really Mean
Have you ever had a narcissist in your life say, “Let’s be friends” after a breakup or fallout? In this episode, we dive deep into what they really mean, why it’s not about genuine friendship, and how these manipulative words keep you trapped in the trauma bond. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in...
-
6 Things Narcissists Tell Others About You Behind Your Back
Struggling with narcissistic abuse? Learn the 6 damaging lies narcissists tell others behind your back to manipulate, isolate, and control the narrative. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
Life After Narcissistic Abuse: Living with CPTSD P/2
If you’ve been wondering why healing feels like a rollercoaster, why your body stays on high alert long after the abuse ends, or why everyday moments can trigger intense emotional reactions, this episode is for you. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse...
-
7 Common Triggers After Emotional Abuse: Is it CPTSD? P/1
If you're still feeling anxious, jumpy, or emotionally raw long after leaving a narcissistic relationship, you're not alone. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
Why the Covert Narcissist Always Looks Like They Won
Ever feel like the narcissist got away with everything while you were left to pick up the pieces? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this...
-
The Super Empath: A Narcissist’s Greatest Fear
Why does the narcissist feel so threatened by the person they once love-bombed, idealised, and tried to control? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
7 Delusions All Narcissists Believe (And Why It’s Crazy-Making!)
Do narcissists actually believe the stuff they say? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this episode of Fake Love and Flying Monkeys, I…
more -
When the Narcissist Knows You Know: And Panics!
What really happens when the narcissist loses control of you, and realises their grip on you is gone? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In…
more -
The Covert Narcissist’s Favourite Fake Apology — Exposed
Ever had someone say, “I’m sorry you feel that way,” and leave you feeling more dismissed than understood? If so, you might have just encountered one of the covert narcissist’s most manipulative tactics in action. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse...
-
Narcissism at Home, Work and Everywhere else: Spot the signs
Think it's just romantic partners who can be narcissistic? Think again. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this episode of Fake Love and...
-
The Flying Monkey Friend: Sweet Face, Toxic Intentions
Ever had a “friend” who seems supportive, checks in on you sweetly… and then somehow everything you say magically makes its way back to the narcissist? Yep—that’s the flying monkey friend. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my...
-
Workplace Narcissists: Charmers in Public, Bullies in Private
They act like your best friend in the meeting... and your worst nightmare behind closed doors. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this...
-
Narcissist Says YOU'RE the toxic Abuser!
Have you been blamed for the very abuse you endured? Did the narcissist tell everyone you were the toxic one—while playing the victim themselves? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
Covert Narcissist Returns After Ghosting: What You Need to Know
They ghost you, block you, abuse you—then pop up like nothing ever happened. Why? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this eye-opening…
more -
When a Narcissist Turns Your Kids Against You
What happens when the narcissist doesn’t just come after you—but starts poisoning your child’s mind against you? And worse—what happens when the court system believes it’s your fault. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website...
-
Why Covert Narcissists Can’t Stand Your Happiness and Confidence
Have you ever noticed how the narcissist in your life seems to get annoyed—or even angry—when you’re finally doing well? When you’re smiling, thriving, feeling peaceful... they suddenly go cold, start a fight, or make a snarky comment that sucks the joy right out of the room? (For 1 on 1 online...
-
7 Brutal Ways Narcissists Discard You to Cause Pain
Narcissists don’t just leave you—they discard you with intent. And it’s never kind, never clean. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this...
-
When the Narcissistic Mother-in-law Sees You as the Rival
What happens when your mother-in-law acts more like the jealous ex than the proud parent? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this…
more -
Why You Still Feel Guilty Saying No to Narcissistic Parents
Struggling with narcissistic abuse recovery as an adult child of a narcissist? Do you feel overwhelming guilt when setting boundaries with toxic parents—even when you know it’s the healthiest thing you can do? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse…
more -
When the Officer Is the Abuser: Bruce Bieber on the Murder of His Daughter, Deputy Abigail Bieber
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of domestic violence, murder-suicide, and police-perpetrated abuse. Please take care while listening. In this powerful and heartbreaking episode, Bruce Bieber joins us to share the story no parent should ever have to tell — the murder of his...
-
How Narcissistic Parents Ruin Your Wedding Day
Weddings should be one of the happiest days of your life—but when you have a narcissistic parent, they often become a masterclass in manipulation, guilt-tripping, and sabotage. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
Why Covert Narcissists Accuse You of Cheating When They Are
Ever been accused of cheating by a narcissist — even when you’ve been nothing but loyal? This episode dives into one of their most toxic manipulation tactics: projection. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
Narcissist Discards: Why It’s So Cruel and Sudden
Why do narcissists discard their partners in such sudden, cold, and brutal ways? Why is there never closure — only silence, blame, or replacement with someone new? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
Why Covert Narcissists Pick Fights Before You Go Out
Why does it feel like the covert narcissist always knows how to ruin your mood—right before a party, dinner, or important event? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
Why Narcissists Hoard Your Emotions to Control You
Why do narcissists seem obsessed with keeping access to your emotions—even after they’ve discarded you or moved on to someone new? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
Healing from Narcissistic Abuse: 6 Strategies That Actually Work. Part 1
If you’ve escaped a relationship with a narcissist, you know the damage runs deep. From shattered self-worth to constant self-doubt, the aftermath of narcissistic abuse can leave you feeling like a shell of who you used to be. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic...
-
Why You Feel Crazy After Narcissistic Abuse
If you’ve ever walked away from a narcissistic relationship feeling confused, unstable, or like you’ve lost your grip on reality, you’re not alone. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
Narcissistic Manipulation Tactics You Didn’t Know Were Emotional Abuse
Are you constantly second-guessing yourself in a relationship that once felt perfect? Do you find yourself apologising for things you didn’t do or trying harder just to keep the peace? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my…
more -
10 Signs You're Dating a Narcissist (And What They Really Mean)
Dating a narcissist can feel like a rollercoaster of confusion, self-doubt, and emotional highs and lows. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ )…
more -
How Narcissists Use Projection to Blame and Confuse You
If you’ve ever found yourself being accused of things you didn’t do, or being labelled with traits that clearly belong to the narcissist themselves, chances are you’ve experienced this toxic psychological trick firsthand. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic...
-
Why Covert Narcissists Sabotage Your Happiness and Special Moments
Why do narcissists seem to lash out when you're at your happiest? Why do they ruin birthdays, holidays, family events, or moments of personal success? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
The Narcissistic Neighbour from Hell: What You Must Know to Protect Your Peace
They live right next door—but your life feels like a psychological battleground. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this episode of Fake…
more -
Narcissist Baiting and Bashing: How to Protect Yourself
They poke the bear—then cry victim when the bear roars. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this episode of Fake Love and Flying Monkeys…
more -
Narcissistic Victim Syndrome Explained: How to Know If You're a Victim
Are you constantly second-guessing yourself, walking on eggshells, or feeling like you're going crazy in a relationship? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at...
-
How Covert Narcissists Slowly Destroy Your Personality
By the time you realise what’s happening, you’re no longer you. (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this eye-opening episode I dive deep…
more -
10 Secrets the Covert Narcissist Doesn’t Want You to Know
What if everything you thought you knew about narcissists was just the tip of the iceberg? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this...
-
Why No One Understands Narcissistic Abuse
Why can’t anyone seem to understand narcissistic abuse — no matter how hard you try to explain it? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this...
-
Inside the Covert Narcissist’s Idealise, Devalue, Discard Cycle with Dr Sam Vaknin. Part 1
In this powerful episode of Fake Love and Flying Monkeys, I’m joined by none other than Dr. Sam Vaknin, the world-renowned expert on narcissistic personality disorder and author of the groundbreaking book Malignant Self-Love: Narcissism Revisited. With over 300,000 YouTube subscribers and…
more -
How Does a Narcissist show their Love?
Ever wondered how a narcissist loves — or if they’re even capable of real love at all? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this episode of...
-
What sort of person is the Covert Narcissist Drawn To?
Have you ever wondered why certain people seem to become prime targets for covert narcissists? (For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ ) In this...
-
Why Covert Narcissists Use Triangulation to Hurt You
Ever felt like you were suddenly competing for someone’s love, attention, or approval—without knowing why? You might have been caught in the toxic game of covert narcissistic triangulation. In this eye-opening episode of Fake Love and Flying Monkeys, I dive deep into one of the most painful and...
About this show
A Toxic relationship and Fake love looks real—until it destroys you.
Welcome to Fake Love and Flying Monkeys, the podcast that exposes the hidden dynamics of toxic relationships, narcissistic abuse, and emotional manipulation. Hosted by Nova Gibson, leading trauma-informed counsellor and Director of Brighter Outlook Narcissistic Abuse Counselling, this podcast is your guide to breaking free from the confusion, fear, and self-doubt that come with being entangled with a narcissist.
In every episode, Nova draws from years of experience working with survivors to explore the complex, often covert tactics used in emotionally abusive relationships—from gaslighting, triangulation, and the silent treatment to smear campaigns and intermittent reinforcement.
Whether you're struggling with a narcissistic partner, parent, boss, or friend, Fake Love and Flying Monkeys gives you the tools and knowledge to understand the abuse, trust your instincts, and reclaim your power—even
Hosted by
Nova Gibson