Your Traitor Within

 In this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler sits down with Victoria Lynn PonTell, speaker, mentor, and creator of the 7 Keys to Unlocking Your Radiant Beauty. Together, they explore the concept of the Traitor Within and how patterns like self-doubt, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and inner criticism keep women disconnected from their true selves. Victoria shares her personal journey of overcoming these patterns and how she now helps others reclaim their confidence and self-worth. This conversation focuses on emotional resilience, mindset shifts, and the process of moving from self-betrayal to self-trust—highlighting how true transformation begins when you stop abandoning yourself and start choosing your own truth.About Victoria Lynn PonTell: Victoria Lynn PonTell is a speaker, mentor, and creator of the 7 Keys to Unlocking Your Radiant Beauty. Her work focuses on helping women overcome self-sabotage, build confidence, and reconnect with their authentic sense of self through practical tools and mindset transformation. The Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F22MSQBN YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyuRk0BMf-A Website: https://victorialynnpontell.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victorialynnpontell-3a9400376/ Instagram: @victorialynnpontellSupport the show

In this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler sits down with Carissa Brockman, Canadian Certified Counsellor and trauma-trained somatic therapist, to explore the deeper psychological and nervous system patterns behind trauma bonds and narcissistic relationships. Carissa shares her personal story of being in an abusive relationship while studying to become a therapist, and how cognitive dissonance, early belief systems, and the nervous system keep people stuck even when they “know” something is wrong. Together, they unpack how the Traitor Within forms, why survivors stay, and why leaving is only the beginning of the healing process. The conversation also dives into attraction patterns, self-abandonment, and how to rebuild a sense of self, safety, and identity after abuse.About Carissa Brockman: Carissa Brockman is a Canadian Certified Counsellor, trauma-trained somatic therapist, and specialist in narcissistic abuse recovery and complex PTSD. Her work is deeply informed by her own lived experience, and she now helps others reclaim their reality and rewire their nervous systems for healthy love.Where to Find Carissa Brockman: Website: www.carissabrockman.com Instagram / TikTok / YouTube: @soulfully_embodiedMasterclass Bundle: https://carissa-brockman-0276.mykajabi.com/masterclass-bundleSupport the show

In this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler sits down with Lisa Sonni, relationship coach and expert in trauma bond recovery, to explore why people stay in abusive dynamics and how those patterns form. They discuss trauma bonds, cognitive dissonance, and emotional entrapment, and how these connect to the Traitor Within—the internal pattern that overrides intuition and keeps you stuck. Lisa shares her Break & Rebuild Method and offers insight into how survivors can begin to reclaim their identity, self-worth, and clarity.About Lisa Sonni: Lisa Sonni is an internationally recognized relationship coach, author, and leading expert in trauma bond recovery. She has helped thousands of survivors break free from abusive patterns and rebuild their lives, and has built a community of over 1.6 million followers.Where to Find Lisa Sonni: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisasonni Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisasonnicoaching Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LisaSonniStrongerThanBeforeSupport the show

In this powerful episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler sits down with Dr. John A. King—survivor, author, and advocate—to explore the long-term impact of childhood trauma and the patterns we develop to survive it.Dr. King shares his deeply personal story of early abuse, memory fragmentation, and the moment his past resurfaced later in life. He speaks openly about how survival mechanisms—like emotional suppression, masking, and hyper-awareness—helped him endure trauma, but later became barriers to healing.Together, they unpack how these protective strategies evolve into what Jessica calls the Traitor Within—the part of us that once kept us safe, but eventually begins to limit growth, connection, and self-understanding.The conversation also explores masculinity, silence, and why so many men struggle to speak about trauma, along with the importance of safe relationships, support systems, and incremental change in the healing process.Dr. King introduces his 1% philosophy—small, consistent steps toward change—and reminds listeners that healing is not immediate, but possible.This episode is a raw and honest look at trauma, resilience, and what it means to rebuild a life from the inside out. 🌐 Website: https://drjohnaking.com/ 📱 Instagram & Socials: @drjohnakingSupport the show

In this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler sits down with psychotherapist and author Kristine Jensen to explore how childhood shame shapes the way we see ourselves—and the patterns we repeat in adulthood.Kristine shares how early experiences of emotional neglect and feeling “not enough” can quietly turn into self-doubt, perfectionism, and a harsh inner critic. Together, they connect this to the Traitor Within—the part of us that once protected us, but now keeps us stuck in cycles of pressure, overperformance, and self-attack.They discuss why these patterns are often misunderstood as personality flaws instead of learned survival responses, and how healing begins with awareness, self-compassion, and learning to meet yourself differently. This conversation is a powerful reminder: you may have been shaped by your past—but you are not defined by it.About Kristine Jensen: Kristine Jensen is a licensed psychotherapist, speaker, and author of Bruised Not Broken. Her work focuses on helping people understand the hidden roots of self-doubt and heal the shame formed through emotional neglect and early experiences. 🌐 https://kristine-jensen.com/Key Takeaway: What feels like a personal flaw is often something you learned to survive—and once you see it, you can begin to change it.Support the show

Rewiring the Patterns That Keep You StuckShow Notes: In this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler is joined by therapist and relationship educator Savannah Kizzie-Rai for a powerful conversation about the patterns that quietly shape our relationships—and how they keep us stuck.Savannah’s work centers on nervous system regulation, communication patterns, and emotional safety. Drawing from clinical psychology, family systems theory, and neuroscience-informed approaches, she helps individuals understand how fear, conditioning, and past experiences influence how we show up in connection with others. Together, Jessica and Savannah explore how the “Traitor Within” shows up in real time—through people-pleasing, hypervigilance, emotional suppression, and the deep need to feel safe, seen, and understood. Savannah shares her personal story of growing up in an emotionally volatile environment, how those early patterns shaped her relationships, and the work it took to break cycles of self-abandonment.This conversation goes beyond labels and into something deeper: how we participate in our own patterns, how we can take responsibility without shame, and how true healing comes from self-awareness—not self-blame.They also dive into: Why people-pleasing is often a survival response  How nervous system activation drives conflict and disconnection  The difference between reacting and responding in relationships  Why emotional safety—not perfection—is the foundation of healthy connection  How to move from reactive patterns into self-leadership Savannah’s perspective is grounded in one core truth: psychological struggle is part of being human. Healing is not about eliminating discomfort—but learning how to coexist with it while choosing differently.This episode is a conversation about responsibility, awareness, and what it really means to come back to yourself.Connect with Savannah: Instagram: @_heyitssav Podcast: https://www.thesafetytospeak.com/podcast Website: https://thesafetytospeak.comSupport the show

In this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW sits down with psychotherapist, author, and narcissistic abuse expert Chelsey Brooke Cole for a deeply honest conversation about how childhood wounds, trauma bonds, and the Traitor Within can keep people stuck in toxic relationships.Chelsey shares her personal story of growing up with a narcissistic father, how those early patterns shaped her adult relationships, and what it was like to survive not one but two narcissistic marriages. Together, Jessica and Chelsey talk about betrayal blindness, shame, trauma bonding, vulnerable versus grandiose narcissism, and the painful reality that even therapists can miss what is happening when they are living inside it.They also explore what healing actually looks like, how survivors can begin rebuilding self-trust, and why resilience, recovery, and hope are possible.Chelsey Brooke Cole is a licensed psychotherapist, certified partner trauma therapist, and bestselling author of If Only I’d Known: How to Outsmart Narcissists, Set Guilt-Free Boundaries, and Create Unshakeable Self-Worth. She specializes in narcissistic abuse, betrayal trauma, and complex trauma, and helps survivors heal through her work, writing, and community.Connect with Chelsey Brooke Cole: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelseybrookecole/ Contact: https://www.chelseybrookecole.com/contact/Support the show

Your Traitor Within: Healing the Parts That Learned to Survive with Dr. Eva AltobelliIn this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW sits down with Dr. Eva Altobelli, MD, addiction psychiatrist and founder of Home-LA, a holistic mental health center in Los Angeles that integrates psychiatry, psychotherapy, and ketamine-assisted therapy.Dr. Altobelli shares how childhood experiences can shape the internal survival patterns we carry into adulthood — patterns that sometimes become what Jessica calls the “Traitor Within.” Together they explore how automatic reactions formed in childhood can quietly guide our behaviors, relationships, and sense of safety long after the original circumstances have passed.Drawing from over two decades of work in addiction psychiatry, trauma recovery, and psychedelic-assisted therapy, Dr. Altobelli discusses the importance of relational healing — the idea that real transformation often happens through safe, collaborative connection between clinician and client.The conversation moves between clinical insight and personal reflection as Dr. Altobelli shares her own story of growing up in a chaotic environment and how those early experiences shaped her tendency to over-function, constantly “doing” instead of allowing space for stillness and self-connection.Jessica and Dr. Altobelli also discuss:• how trauma can limit our ability to imagine new possibilities for ourselves • why safety is the foundation for emotional healing • the difference between doing and being in modern culture • how ketamine-assisted psychotherapy can help people access insight and shift long-standing patterns • why healing is often more effective when approached collaboratively rather than through rigid treatment modelsDr. Altobelli explains how Home-LA (Healing Opportunities for Meaningful Evolution) was created to bring together a multidisciplinary team that can support individuals through many different paths to healing — including psychotherapy, psychiatry, trauma recovery work, somatic practices, and psychedelic-assisted treatment.The episode highlights a powerful reminder: the “Traitor Within” is not something to hate or eliminate, but rather a survival strategy developed in childhood that can be understood, softened, and transformed with awareness and compassion.About Dr. Eva AltobelliDr. Eva Altobelli, MD is an addiction psychiatrist and the founder of Home-LA, a holistic wellness center in Los Angeles that integrates psychiatry, psychotherapy, and ketamine-assisted therapy. For more than 20 years, she has worked at the intersection of mental health, addiction, trauma, and recovery.Her work combines evidence-based psychiatric care with relational and holistic approaches to healing. Dr. Altobelli is trained in Internal Family Systems therapy and holds certifications in psychedelic therapy and research through the California Institute of Integral Studies and MAPS.Through Home-LA, she and her team offer individualized treatment plans designed to help clients reconnect with themselves, explore new pathways toward healing, and participate actively in their own recovery process.Learn more about Dr. Eva AltobelliLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-altobelli-md-210b878Instagram https://www.instagram.com/homela_psychiatryFacebook https://www.facebook.com/Eva-Altobelli-Home-LASupport the show

In this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW speaks with Marriage and Family Therapist Pinkal Panchal about how the emotional patterns we learn in childhood can quietly shape the way we communicate, handle conflict, and build relationships as adults.Pinkal shares her personal “Traitor Within” story and how growing up in a household where conflict meant silence taught her that avoiding communication was the safest response. What once protected her as a child eventually began showing up in her marriage as stonewalling and emotional distance.Together, Jessica and Pinkal explore how the behaviors that once helped us survive can later become barriers to connection. They discuss why silence can feel powerful in the moment, how vulnerability often feels like weakness when we first practice it, and why emotional awareness is the key to breaking generational relationship patterns.Pinkal also shares insights from her work helping couples navigate relationships within traditional family systems, where cultural expectations and silence around emotions can make communication even more complicated.This conversation is ultimately about awareness. When we begin to recognize the “Traitor Within,” the part of us that once protected us but now holds us back, we can start making different choices and create healthier, more emotionally secure relationships.About Pinkal PanchalPinkal Panchal is a Marriage and Family Therapist based in Orange County, California who helps couples build emotionally secure marriages within traditional family systems. Her work focuses on emotional intelligence and helping individuals better understand the relational patterns they bring into their partnerships.She is also the host of the podcast What’s the Big Deal?, where she challenges mental health stigma through honest conversations paired with neuroscience and psychological insight, one stigma and one story at a time.Connect with Pinkal PanchalInstagram https://www.instagram.com/pinkalpanchal/Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatsthebigdeal.wbd/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@whatsthebigdeal_wbdSupport the show

In this episode, Jessica welcomes Yolanda Reshemah, a visionary and creative catalyst whose work is rooted in relationships, courage, and elevating people’s stories. Yolanda shares the “Traitor Within” pattern she recently identified in herself: waiting for permission, waiting to be seen, waiting for someone else to validate her before she fully steps into leadership, opportunity, and voice.Together, they unpack how this pattern can show up in career decisions, speaking opportunities, and friendships that look “full” on the surface but aren’t truly reciprocal. Jessica connects the dots to how these internal patterns often begin early in life as a way to feel safe, then quietly become self-sabotage in adulthood. Yolanda also shares the meaning behind her podcast The Places We Call Home, inspired by her own cross-cultural move and the emotional reality of building community, identity, and belonging in a new place.Yolanda also speaks about her involvement with Turntable Housing, a nonprofit supporting youth impacted by trafficking and instability, and closes with a word she can’t shake: metamorphosis.Follow Yolanda and listen to her podcast: Instagram: @placeswecallhomepod Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3QGSRK1WCWfRAplbdbRAuP?si=753fad8c5ff0410eSupport the show

Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW is joined by psychotherapist and author Kristen Baird-Goldman to talk about why ADHD and other neurodivergent traits can make people especially vulnerable to narcissistic manipulation. They unpack the “self-blame loop,” rejection sensitivity, rumination (“my day in court”), trauma bonding, and why working with an ADHD-informed, trauma-informed therapist can be the difference between healing and being retraumatized.About Kristen Kristen Baird-Goldman, LMFT, ATR, ADHD-CCSP, CIMHP is the author of The CBT Workbook for Adult ADHD and the founder/director of Baird Integrated Therapy, an integrative psychotherapy practice and ADHD center.Find Kristen Instagram: @theadhdguru Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristen.bairdgoldman/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-baird-goldman-m-s-lmft-cimhp-6178817/ Practice: Baird Integrated Therapy (website + discovery call)Disclaimer This episode is for education only and is not mental health treatment. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 for crisis support.Support the show

Season 2 of Your Traitor Within opens with a powerful conversation between Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW, and abuse recovery coach Beany, founder of Breakthroughs with Beany.Beany shares her deeply personal story of surviving a decade-long abusive relationship, the trauma bond that kept her stuck, and how her “Traitor Within” — the internal voice shaped by early wounds — convinced her to endure instead of leave. Together, Jessica and Beany unpack the psychology behind narcissistic abuse, love bombing, cognitive dissonance, intermittent reinforcement, and why leaving is rarely a single moment.This episode explores:• How trauma bonding can feel like addiction • Why “strength” can become a mask that keeps you silent • The role of external validation in abusive dynamics • Why physical distance creates clarity • How healing is built through small daily decisions • The importance of community in recoveryBeany now supports survivors through one-on-one coaching, group programs, and a membership community designed to help women break trauma bonds and rebuild self-worth.Connect with Beany / Breakthroughs with Beany: Instagram: http://instagram.com/breakthroughswithbeany YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@breakthroughswithbeany TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@breakthroughswithbeany Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AL3TRJEoy/?mibextid=wwXIfrContent note: This episode includes discussion of abuse, stalking, and sexual violence.If you are in danger or need support: National Domestic Violence Hotline (US): 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988Support the show

In this deeply personal episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler sits down with her longtime friend Margaret Josephs for an honest conversation about how childhood conditioning quietly shapes adult relationships — and how learning to recognize that internal “traitor” voice can change everything.Margaret reflects on growing up parentified, learning early to normalize chaos, over-responsibility, and emotional self-silencing. She shares how those early survival patterns followed her into adulthood, influencing the red flags she excused, the control she tolerated, and the guilt that kept her staying longer than she should have. What looks like strength from the outside often felt like quiet self-betrayal on the inside.Together, Jessica and Margaret unpack how the Traitor Within isn’t a villain — it’s a coping mechanism that once helped her survive. But when left unexamined, that same voice can keep us stuck in relationships that require us to shrink, justify, or “put up and shut up.” Margaret speaks candidly about therapy, boundaries, safety, motherhood, and the moment she realized she could no longer live a life that denied who she truly was.This episode is a powerful exploration of parentification, trauma bonding, emotional control, and the long road from survival to self-trust — told with honesty, humor, and compassion.Margaret Josephs is an entrepreneur, author, fashion designer, and television personality best known for The Real Housewives of New Jersey. She is the founder of Macbeth Collection, co-founder of the mocktail brand Soirée, and the author of Caviar Dreams, Tuna Fish Budget.Beyond television and business, Margaret is a devoted mother and wife, and a long-standing advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, children battling cancer, and causes centered on women’s empowerment, independence, and self-worth. Known for her candor, compassion, and resilience, she consistently uses her platform to support community, philanthropy, and conversations around growth, healing, and reinvention at every stage of life.Follow Margaret Josephs: @therealmargaretjosephsFollow Soirée: @drinksoireeSupport the show

In this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW, talks with certified recovery coach Paula Devine, founder of Happiest Hour Concierge Sobriety. For over 30 years, alcohol was woven into Paula’s life — from high school and college partying to a career in the liquor industry and then into the “mommy wine culture” of early motherhood. On the outside she was high-functioning, involved, and “doing it all.” On the inside she was living with anxiety, hangovers, shame, and the quiet realization that alcohol was slowly dulling who she really was.Paula shares how her Traitor Within showed up through alcohol: the voice that told her she “deserved” a drink, that she needed it to relax, to connect, to cope, even as her kids began to mirror back the impact. She describes the moment she finally said, “I’m done,” what it was like to stop in a marriage and social world built around drinking, and how her husband’s support and new shared rituals (like pickleball instead of cocktails) helped her hold that line. Now over three years sober, Paula talks about the surprising happiness and clarity that came with sobriety, how she handles romanticizing the past like a “toxic ex,” and how she gently supports women who slip without shame, focusing instead on triggers, self-awareness, and what the lapse can teach them.Paula also shares how Happiest Hour was born out of her own path — a small group of friends meeting regularly to support each other — and how it evolved into a women’s sobriety coaching practice and community in Lighthouse Point, Florida. Her approach is holistic and personalized: therapy, meetings, coaching, movement, community, and whatever else helps a woman step into an alcohol-free life that actually feels like hers.You can find Paula at: Website: www.happiesthouraf.com Instagram: @happiest_hour_afSupport the show

Your Traitor Within — (@timstagramcpt)In this episode, Jessica welcomes transformation coach and personal trainer Tim Kassouf, whose story is a striking example of what can happen when insecurity, perfectionism, and pain go unspoken for too long — and what becomes possible when someone finally turns toward the truth of their life.Tim talks openly about the body-image wounds he carried since childhood, the pressure to perform his way into worth, and how those early messages eventually shaped a devastating addiction to Adderall and heroin. He describes the collapse of his first marriage, the moment he no longer wanted to live, and the second chance that came only because he stayed one more day.What follows is the slow rebuild: sobriety, AA, faith, community, and the discipline of fitness — not as aesthetics, but as structure, identity, and self-respect. Tim shares how purpose returned through helping others, how accountability became a lifeline, and why effort—not outcomes—is now the foundation of his life.He speaks candidly about men’s silent struggles with body image, the exhaustion of living as a chameleon, the peace that comes from authenticity, and the grounded, mutual love he eventually found in his second marriage.This conversation is about recovery, discipline, self-forgiveness, and the ongoing work of recognizing the Traitor Within when it speaks — and choosing differently, again and again.Support the show

In this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW, sits down with dating and confidence coach Terri Boucher (@terri_boucher) to explore how the Traitor Within shows up in modern dating. Terri shares her story of growing up in chaos, emotional neglect, poverty, and hyper independence, and how those early wounds pushed her into survival mode, masculine energy, and relationships with emotionally unavailable men. Jessica and Terri discuss how trauma and protective parts shape our dating choices, why so many women end up chasing, settling, or abandoning themselves, and what it actually takes to step into authenticity, feminine energy, boundaries, self-worth, and healthy relationship patterns. Terri explains how she guides women through nervous system regulation, mindset work, deeper awareness, and aligned action so they can stop repeating old cycles, stop dating from their wounds, and start attracting relationships that feel safe, connected, and aligned with who they truly are.Support the show

Emily Colligan is a somatic trauma and narcissistic abuse recovery coach who helps women break trauma-bond cycles, regulate their nervous system, and rebuild a secure sense of self after toxic relationships. Through body-based healing, attachment work, and deep pattern rewiring, Emily guides clients out of survival mode and into the grounded, empowered version of themselves they've never been allowed to be.Connect with Emily: Instagram: @emilycolligantherapy Website: emilycolligantherapy.comSupport the show

In honor of National Adoption Month, Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW, sits down with her longtime friend and fellow adoptee, Barbara Eckert of All The Feels Healing Space, to share the parts of their adoption stories that shaped their “Traitor Within” — the protective inner voice that helped them survive but later drove people-pleasing, over-trusting, secrecy, and self-silencing. They discuss late disclosures, abandoned fantasies about birth families, the “primal wound,” somatic fallout, and practical tools for repair, including breathwork, therapy, and community. This candid conversation offers language, validation, and next steps for adult adoptees and adoptive parents alike. Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW: @jessicaannepressler | yourtraitorwithin.comBarbara Eckert: @allthefeelshealingspace | allthefeelshealingspace.comSupport the show

"My brother used to openly call himself a master manipulator — he was proud of it.And honestly, he did have a lot of people manipulated, including my parents.The painful irony is that when he died at forty from an overdose, my father — the one who had been so controlled by him — was the most devastated. He died six months later.My mother was already gone.And while I can’t prove it, I’ve always believed the stress my brother caused helped take her, too.The point isn’t the tragedy, though. The point is that narcissists destroy — not always on purpose, but through the chaos they create.So when someone tells you who they are, believe them.My brother told us exactly who he was. " - Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW Support the show

In Part 2, Jessica and David J. Weeks (@djweeks_) move from the facts of David’s childhood into the adult fallout—and the work of repair. David traces how early chaos trained his body to confuse intensity with intimacy, how disorganized attachment and the survival role of “the chameleon” kept him safe then but costly now, and how narcissistic partners can exploit abandonment wounds through tactics like love-bombing, power imbalance, and data mining (“gaining information to use later against you”). He also reframes trafficking: it isn’t only the cinematic scenario—grooming and relational exploitation of minors belong in that definition, too. Together they highlight practical next steps: naming the pattern, regulating first, moving logistics to one written lane, and building a steady support map so safer connection becomes possible.We cover:Why perceived abandonment can trigger the same alarm as the real thingThe difference between intensity and intimacy (and how sex can cement a trauma bond)Narcissistic tactics in adult relationships: love-bombing → power imbalance → data mining → leverageReframing trafficking for minors: grooming and relational exploitation behind closed doorsRepair in practice: body-first resets, written-only logistics, simple boundaries you can repeat, community careAbout David: Trauma & Recovery Coach, complex-trauma survivor, and author of the forthcoming memoir Surviving Childhood. He coaches survivors to reclaim safety, language, boundaries, and voice. IG: @djweeks_.Resources (U.S.): 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) • RAINN 800-656-HOPE • National DV Hotline 1-800-799-7233 (text START to 88788)Support the show

(Part 1)Content note: Discussion of childhood abuse and sexual assault/trafficking (non-graphic).Summary Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW, sits with David J. Weeks—a complex-trauma survivor and Trauma & Recovery Coach—to tell the truth of his childhood and the long road back. Raised by a narcissistic mother and an antisocial stepfather, David endured years of torment. By age 14, he had experienced all 10 Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). At 13, while searching for love he never received at home, he was exploited and raped by a 39-year-old neighbor; the abuse escalated into repeated assaults and trafficking. In this first half, David names what happened, explains how a child’s nervous system bonds to any attachment it can find, and shares why emotional abuse can become the deepest wound. He also describes the “chameleon” role that helped him survive—and why speaking now is part of breaking silence and stigma.About David David J. Weeks is a Trauma & Recovery Coach supporting survivors in reclaiming safety, language, and choice. He is writing his memoir, Surviving Childhood, to be released soon. IG: @djweeks_.Notable MomentsHome life: control, cruelty, and the cost of “keeping the peace.”The first assault at 13, how it escalated into trafficking, and the silence that followed.Why children bond to what’s available (even when it isn’t safe).Emotional abuse as the wound that lingers longest.The chameleon strategy—protective then, costly later.Pull Quotes“By fourteen, I’d hit every ACE.” — David J. Weeks“I became a chameleon because it kept me safe.” — David J. Weeks“It wasn’t your fault—your nervous system chose connection when safety wasn’t available.” — Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSWResources (U.S.) 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call/text/chat 24/7) National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 (text START to 88788) RAINN 800-656-HOPE (Sexual Assault Hotline)Part 2 continues with how these patterns show up in adult relationships—and the tools David uses to rebuild safety, boundaries, and voice.Support the show

Join me with Marge Sr. (Margaret Kiss, @margesr) as she reflects on fleeing communist Hungary as a child, rebuilding her life in the U.S., navigating intergenerational wounds, and choosing daily acts of love over hate—while also offering hard-earned wisdom on mental health, advocacy, and staying grounded in turbulent times.@margesr Support the show

On this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler welcomes a dear friend and creative powerhouse, photographer Janet Barnett. Jessica and Janet’s friendship is rooted not only in their professional collaborations—Jessica has been one of Janet’s subjects, using her portraits across her own platforms—but also in the deep mutual respect and trust they share. That closeness gives this conversation an intimacy and candor that you’ll feel instantly.Janet’s story begins on the Sunset Strip of the late ’80s and early ’90s, where she captured the swagger of rock stars in their natural habitat. But the real shift in her career came when she turned her lens toward women over forty, celebrating their unapologetic power, lived experience, and self-possession. Through her work, Janet reminds us that life after forty isn’t about fading into the background—it’s about turning up the volume.Jessica guides Janet through her own traitor within story, one centered around business, money, and self-worth. For decades, Janet struggled with the messaging and modeling she grew up with—scarcity mindsets, cultural narratives that women should be givers, and an inner critic that kept her from asking for what she deserved. She shares how this lack of confidence cost her financially and emotionally, and how she is now rewriting that script. With honesty and humor, Janet talks about the daily practice of confronting her inner saboteur, learning to charge what she’s worth, and embracing that self-care and compensation are not selfish—they are necessary.Together, Jessica and Janet explore the ways our “traitor within” shows up in business, how intergenerational patterns shape self-worth, and why it’s never too late to change. You’ll hear about Janet’s evolution from shooting rock stars to empowering women entrepreneurs, her reflections on adoption and family, and the mindset shifts that continue to shape her path forward.If you’ve ever struggled with asking for more—whether that’s in your business, your art, or your own self-worth—this episode is for you.Follow Janet and see her work on Instagram at @janet_barnett_photography and learn more about her sessions at janetbarnettphotography.net.Support the show

Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW, and producer Anthony have a candid, non-graphic conversation about C-PTSD and Jessica’s experience surviving a suicidal crisis—naming the “Traitor Within,” how emotional flashbacks show up, and the small nervous-system tools that helped her choose to stay. Short, compassionate, and practical. (If you need help in the U.S., call or text 988.)Support the show

On this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler sits down with Stephanie Schultz—founder of Blue Blood Metal Jewelry, Senior Art Consultant with SH Modern, and Pure Barre Fort Myers instructor. Stephanie’s journey has taken her from museum fundraising to the world of fine art and one-of-a-kind jewelry, with features in British Vogue and even the Real Housewives universe.But today, Stephanie opens up about something deeper: the “traitor within” that silenced her voice for years. Raised between two cultures, she shares how shyness, self-doubt, and fear of anger shaped her childhood—and how those patterns resurfaced in her adult relationships and career. Together, Jessica and Stephanie explore:The link between childhood silencing and adult intimacy blocksLearning to identify triggers in relationships—and choosing vulnerability over fearHow anger can be a healthy signal instead of something to repressThe role of creativity, teaching, and fitness in building confidenceWhy taking risks (even scared) can bring true connection and growthStephanie’s honesty and insight remind us that healing isn’t about perfection—it’s about practice, self-compassion, and daring to be seen.Highlights“Silence felt like safety, but it also created distance.”“You can take risks with the right people—and that helps you risk again.”“Parents don’t have to be perfect; they just need to be good enough.”“Do it scared. Bravery is contagious.”Connect with StephanieJewelry: Website | Instagram: @bluebloodmetalPersonal: Instagram: @stephanie_m_schultzPure Barre Fort Myers: @purebarrefortmyersConnect with JessicaWebsite: jessicaannepressler.comInstagram: @jessicaannepresslerSupport the show

Jessica sits down with April Kirkwood—licensed holistic therapist, ageless style advocate, and TV favorite from The Golden Bachelor and the latest Bachelor in Paradise—to talk about healing as a lifelong commitment. They unpack triggers (“what in me still needs healing?”), boundaries as self-protection (not punishment), and what it means to live “large” in your own power, not for applause.Big themes:Healing is messy, nonlinear—and not a 10-session fix.Triggers as teachers: notice → name → choose.Boundaries > people-pleasing (you can care without being responsible).Intergenerational patterns, “the traitor within,” and self-worth.Glimmers: catching micro-moments of good to raise your nervous-system floor.Choosing soul over image: freedom from fear as a daily practice.Mic-drop lines:“There’s no failure in healing—only lessons.”“When I’m triggered, I ask: what in me still needs healing?”“Boundaries aren’t revenge. They’re self-protection.”“I want to be large—just not that way. Large in my own power.”About AprilApril Kirkwood, M.Ed., LPC (holistic therapist) is an international podcaster, speaker, and #1 bestselling author known for empowering women to tell the truth, set loving boundaries, and reclaim self-worth. With 25+ years in mental health and two master’s degrees, she blends mind-body-spirit tools with a playful, ageless approach to life and style. You’ve seen her sparkle on screen—today you’ll meet the grounded healer using humor and soul work to help others find their voice.Connect & promote:Website / sessions: aprilkirkwood.comInstagram: @aprillynnkirkwoodTikTok: @aprillynnkirkwood0Booking / media: [email protected] & resourcesListen & follow: Your Traitor Within (Apple/Spotify)If you need support (US): National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233 (text START to 88788) • 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineSupport the show

Laura is an international podcaster, #1 bestselling author, and speaker dedicated to empowering women. Through her global podcast That’s Where I’m At and her bestselling book Married To A “Nice” Guy: Getting Over Narcissistic Abuse, she shares her recovery from a 32-year marriage to a narcissist. Her mission: shine a light on narcissistic abuse so women know they’re never alone and that healing is possible—rebuilding self-worth, reclaiming their voices, and stepping into strength.In this episode:How telling your story breaks shameThe Traitor Within: unlearning people-pleasing & staying smallBoundaries as self-protection (info diet, Gray Rock, no-JADE)Why you need trauma-informed therapyLinks:Married To A “Nice” Guy — get the book here“You’re Not Crazy” ebook — get it hereLaura’s podcast — http://www.thatswhereimatpodcast.comSupport the show

In this special behind-the-scenes episode, host Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW and producer Anthony take listeners into the core concept of the show: the traitor within.Jessica shares her definition of the traitor — the part of ourselves shaped by pain, trauma, and old beliefs that holds us back or keeps us in unhealthy cycles. Anthony offers his perspective on recognizing his own traitor, and together they explore how naming it is the first step toward freedom.They revisit some standout past guests, including:Braunwyn Windham-Burke — on sobriety, identity, and living authentically.Arci Grey — on healing from deep trauma and reclaiming self-trust.Dr. Nadine “Dr. Nae” Macaluso — on breaking trauma bonds and navigating complex PTSD.John Graham — on confronting inner toxicity and building a life of service.…and they unpack even more powerful stories from other guests who’ve faced down their traitors in different ways — from overcoming loss, to rebuilding after abuse, to rewriting the narratives they once believed about themselves.Sponsor Message: This episode is brought to you by the Your Traitor Within Journal — a guided journal designed to help you uncover, name, and dismantle the patterns that keep you stuck. Filled with prompts, exercises, and reflections from Jessica, it’s a personal toolkit to help you silence the traitor and strengthen your authentic voice. 📖 Order yours now at JessicaAnnePressler.comWhy Listen: If you’ve ever wondered why you repeat certain patterns, doubt your worth, or hold yourself back, this episode offers personal insight from Jessica and Anthony, plus takeaways from past guests whose stories show just how universal — and conquerable — the traitor within can be.Support the show

Finding Strength by Facing Your Inner Traitor – with John GrahamIn this deeply powerful episode, host Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW, sits down with remarkable guest John Graham, former U.S. Diplomat, adventurer, author, and co-leader of the renowned Giraffe Heroes Project. They explore how confronting your internal “traitor”—the self-sabotaging critic born from past wounds—is essential for discovering authentic courage and purpose.✨ Key Highlights:Childhood Experiences: John vulnerably shares how being bullied shaped his early struggles and internal dialogue about strength and identity.A Life of Adventure: From scaling uncharted peaks in Denali to navigating war-torn regions as a diplomat in Vietnam, John’s life is a testament to resilience and bold exploration.Love and Partnership: Hear the inspiring story of how John’s life transformed through his relationship with Ann Medlock, the visionary behind the Giraffe Heroes Project—a powerful nonprofit highlighting everyday heroes worldwide.Facing the “Inner Traitor”: John’s honest reflection about how confronting his inner critic allowed him to move beyond toxic beliefs about strength, masculinity, and vulnerability.With humor, candor, and profound wisdom, John encourages listeners to recognize and transform their inner critics into sources of strength and authentic living.👤 About John Graham:John Graham is a captivating speaker, author, former U.S. Diplomat, adventurer, and co-leader of the Giraffe Heroes Project. John has inspired thousands globally, championing courageous individuals who “stick their necks out” for meaningful change.🔗 Connect with John Graham:Website: JohnGraham.orgGiraffe Heroes Project: giraffe.orgFacebook: facebook.com/giraffeheroesTikTok: @badassgranddadSupport the show

In today’s powerful episode, Jessica Anne Pressler speaks openly with Amanda Marino, a Certified Intervention Professional, Certified Recovery and Life Coach, international speaker, and the inspiring co-founder of Next Level Recovery Associates.Amanda courageously shares her personal journey, beginning with a childhood scarred by trauma, abuse, and instability. She vividly describes how these early experiences shaped her own internal "traitor," leading to years of harmful coping mechanisms and self-destructive choices.Yet, Amanda’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and profound healing. She discusses her journey through addiction, trauma recovery, motherhood, and the strength she discovered through vulnerability and self-compassion. Amanda’s honesty about her past struggles—from childhood abuse and trauma to substance use and mental health battles—highlights her message that no one is beyond healing.Amanda is a fierce advocate for mental health, recovery, and personal empowerment. Her professional appearances include A&E's Intervention and Digital Addiction, where she has shared her expertise as a professional interventionist. Her experiences in the entertainment industry have uniquely positioned her to help high-profile clients navigate recovery while remaining grounded.Jessica and Amanda explore:How childhood trauma shapes our inner critic ("traitor within").The complex journey from self-destruction to self-love.Overcoming shame and stigma around mental health and recovery.Creating healthy boundaries and redefining family.Amanda's inspiring path from surviving trauma to becoming a successful international speaker, entrepreneur, and dedicated mother.Amanda believes passionately:"Everyone deserves a beautiful life and happiness. I am not special or unique—anyone can do what I’ve done if they truly want to heal."This episode is a reminder of the strength found in vulnerability, the power of seeking help, and the transformative potential of embracing your truth.Connect with Amanda Marino:Instagram: @amandamarinoofficialNext Level Recovery Associates: nextlevelra.comSpeaking engagements: amandamarinospeaks.comSupport the show

Your Traitor Within Podcast – Special Guest Steve HopperIn today's powerful episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica Anne Pressler sits down with Steve Hopper, an internationally recognized keynote speaker, author, and peak performance expert. Steve shares his gripping story—from prison inmate to global influencer—and explores how confronting the "traitor within" helped him turn his darkest moments into a mission to inspire millions. Through authentic vulnerability, Steve provides practical wisdom on overcoming self-sabotage, embracing life's purpose, and stepping into your full potential.🌟 About Steve Hopper: After a life-changing wake-up call in prison, Steve Hopper dedicated himself to empowering others through powerful storytelling, impactful speaking, and authentic connection. His bestselling book, "From Prison to Purpose," chronicles his transformative journey and offers a roadmap for turning life's setbacks into opportunities for greatness.Connect with Steve:🌐 Website & Book: stevehopperinternational.com📘 Facebook: Steve Hopper InternationalSupport the show

"Trusting Your Inner Voice" with Mike RudnickiIn this episode of Your Traitor Within, Jessica sits down with Mike Rudnicki, author, mindfulness coach, Reiki master, and devoted advocate for empowering children through self-awareness and mindfulness.Mike shares how he overcame his own internal doubts—his "traitor within"—by learning to trust his intuition rather than relying solely on logic and external expectations. He opens up about the pivotal moments when he chose to listen to his inner voice, transforming his career and life path despite fear and uncertainty.Listen as Mike discusses:How to recognize and silence the limiting thoughts holding you back.Practical steps for connecting deeply with your intuition.His transformative work teaching mindfulness and emotional empowerment to kids.This inspiring conversation offers tools and encouragement for anyone seeking to quiet self-doubt and embrace their true calling.Learn more about Mike Rudnicki:mikerudnicki.comkmrpartners.comGrab his books >>> https://mikerudnicki.com/order-books/ols/all?sortOption=descend_by_popularityListen now to discover the power of trusting your inner voice.Support the show

🎙️ Episode Show Notes: Bobbi Rudnicki – Healing From a Father's Betrayal Join Jessica Anne Pressler for an intimate and transformative conversation with Bobbi Rudnicki, an accomplished professional, dedicated mentor, and advocate for women’s emotional and career empowerment. In this heartfelt episode, Bobbi courageously opens up about her journey with her "traitor within"—the internal voice rooted in past experiences that fuels self-doubt, fear of abandonment, and patterns of self-sabotage.Bobbi reflects on the complex emotions shaped by witnessing infidelity in her parents' marriage and explores how those early experiences influenced her own relationships and perceptions of trust. Through deep self-reflection and personal growth, Bobbi shares how she confronted and rewrote her inner narratives, ultimately finding authentic love, emotional security, and spiritual grounding.In this vulnerable discussion, Jessica and Bobbi highlight the importance of recognizing the impact of parental dynamics on children, the empowering process of healing intergenerational trauma, and the transformative power of rewriting one's story to manifest the life you truly desire.Bobbi's inspirational journey is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the significance of loving oneself first, and the profound impact of embracing personal growth.✨ Key Themes:Overcoming childhood trauma and infidelity's impact on childrenUnderstanding and compassionately managing your "traitor within"Manifesting authentic, healthy relationshipsHealing intergenerational woundsEmbracing spiritual growth and emotional maturityDive in for a powerful conversation that will encourage you to reflect, heal, and empower your own journey.Support the show

Join Jessica Anne Pressler in an uplifting and transformative conversation with Lisa McCourt, acclaimed author and joyful living expert whose radiant books have captivated over 9 million readers worldwide. As the dynamic host of the Joy Zone podcast and visionary founder of Joy School, Lisa masterfully teaches the rare art of emotional buoyancy, guiding thousands towards joy and emotional maturity for over two decades.Lisa McCourt writes books about joy and love that have sold over 9 million copies and teaches the rare art of emotional buoyancy through her online Joy School. Winner of the title “Best Guest Expert” in the 2024 Women in Podcasting awards, and author of the award-winning book Free Your Joy, she also leads retreats and live events in South Florida and other locations. You’ll find Lisa’s many offerings at LisaMcCourt.com.In this deeply personal episode, Lisa courageously explores her “Traitor Within,” revealing the internal challenges and transformative journeys that shaped her extraordinary capacity for joy and self-actualization. Jessica and Lisa share insights from their longstanding friendship, reflecting on how Lisa’s own experiences profoundly enrich her teachings and life philosophy.When Lisa isn’t inspiring souls through her online Joy School or in-person events, she finds tranquility in nature with her husband and daughters, lends her voice to a choir, and passionately leads her local PFLAG chapter as president.Discover Lisa’s inspiring journey and learn how to cultivate peace and bliss within your own life.✨ Connect with Lisa McCourt:Home - Lisa McCourt - JOY School - Happiness Life CoachingUpcoming Events - Lisa McCourt - JOY School - Happiness Life CoachingFree Your Joy: The Twelve Keys to Sustainable Happiness (Amazon)Support the show

Join Braunwyn Spinner (@braunwynwindhamburke), sobriety and queerness advocate, media personality, and former Real Housewives of Orange County star, as she opens up about confronting her "traitor within"—that internal voice shaped by past experiences that can hold us back. Braunwyn candidly discusses her unique journey through reality TV, sharing the profound challenges and powerful revelations that emerged during her time on RHOC. Despite the stigma and obstacles, Braunwyn remains grateful for the platform NBC and Bravo provided, believing that even reruns of her story could positively impact someone else's path to sobriety.✨ Listen now for an empowering, honest, and heartfelt conversation! 🔗 Follow Braunwyn on Instagram: @braunwynwindhamburkeSupport the show

Award-winning TV host, author, and motivational speaker Marci Hopkins joins Jessica Anne Pressler to share her journey from addiction and shame to sobriety, self-love, and empowerment. After stepping away from her hit show Wake Up with Marci, Marci now hosts her own podcast where she dives even deeper into topics like healing, motherhood, and mental health.She’s also the author of Chaos to Clarity: Seeing the Signs and Breaking the Cycles, an award-winning memoir about breaking toxic patterns and finding joy through recovery.Her story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to silence the traitor within and reclaim your life.🌐 Learn more: https://wakeupwithmarci.com 📖 Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BFB8YQZD 🎙️ Listen to her podcast: https://wakeupwithmarci.com/podcast 📲 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wake_up_with_marciSupport the show

In this powerful episode, Jessica sits down with Nicole B. Gebhardt — a best-selling author, transformational coach, and certified child life specialist — to discuss the deep grief of pregnancy and infant loss, and the internal voice that kept her trapped in shame, silence, and survival mode. Nicole shares how she found the strength to break free, step into her healing, and help others do the same.Nicole’s story is one of incredible resilience. A fierce advocate for families healing from loss and individuals navigating addiction, she’s also the founder of The Worthy Femme and has dedicated her life to supporting women through some of life’s most painful transitions. From her work in early childhood development to her certifications in Reiki and emotional healing, Nicole blends science, spirit, and lived experience into every part of her mission.Whether you’ve experienced loss yourself or are supporting someone who has, this episode will move you deeply.🔗 Learn More About Nicole:Website: www.nicolebgebhardt.comHealing Practice: spirituallighthousehealing.comEmotion Code & Reiki: emotioncodereiki.com📚 Nicole’s Books:Broken Wings, Broken Dreams: A Mother's Life After Infant Loss and Miscarriage 👉 Buy on AmazonThe Healing Cocoon: A Mother’s Emergence After Infant and Pregnancy Loss 👉 Buy on AmazonThe Queen’s Companion Book: Rule Your Throne. Own Your Queendom. 👉 Buy on AmazonSupport the show

Join Jessica Anne Pressler in conversation with Dr. Nadine Macaluso, therapist and real-life inspiration behind Naomi Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street. Dr. Nae shares candidly about her turbulent marriage to Jordan Belfort, trauma bonds, and her inspiring journey toward healing.In this powerful episode, you'll learn about:Recognizing and breaking trauma bondsUnderstanding intermittent reinforcement in toxic relationshipsIdentifying your “Traitor Within”—the hidden beliefs keeping you stuckPractical strategies for self-compassion and recovery from narcissistic abuseResources from Dr. Nae:📖 Download the first chapter of Run Like Hell FREE: Click here📚 Order Run Like Hell: A Therapist's Guide to Recognizing, Escaping, and Healing from Trauma Bonds: Click hereConnect with Dr. Nae:🌟 Website: Click here📲 Instagram/TikTok: @drnaelmftListen now for an empowering deep-dive into healing from trauma and reclaiming your life!Support the show

What happens when the person you're trying to become is constantly hijacked by the version of you that learned to survive?In this deeply personal episode of Your Traitor Within, Arci Grey shares her story—one that begins with unthinkable trauma: childhood abuse, kidnapping, rape, and an attempted murder that she wasn't supposed to survive.But Arci did survive. And then came the harder part—living.We talk about what it means to rebuild your life when your nervous system doesn’t know the difference between safety and sabotage. Arci opens up about the invisible aftermath of trauma and how Complex PTSD showed up as patterns that kept her from reaching her goals, sabotaging relationships, and believing she was worthy of anything more.This isn’t just a story of survival—it’s a reckoning. A raw, real conversation about what it takes to untangle your identity from your trauma… and what healing looks like when you stop trying to be who the world wants you to be, and start reclaiming who you were always meant to become.Arci also shares how she now helps other survivors reconnect with their internal resources, even when they feel broken beyond repair. If you’ve ever felt like your trauma has been running the show, this conversation is a must-listen.Want to go deeper? Arci is offering a free training for Your Traitor Within listeners, on how to start breaking free from the patterns of CPTSD. If this conversation hits home - this is a powerful next step in your healing. You can check that out here:  https://www.survivor-school.com/free?ref=SilenceTheTraitorSocial Media handlesInstagram: @The.Survivor.School@ArciGreyYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/@arcigreyhttps://www.youtube.com/@TheSurvivorSchoolSupport the show

Trigger Warning: This podcast episode contains explicit descriptions and themes of abuse. To prevent overwhelming the audience, the episode will be split into two parts. Please take care of yourself while listening. If you're in distress, we strongly encourage you to seek support from a mental health professional — or call 988 or 911 for immediate help. Stay tuned for Part 2.Arci Grey is a living example of the powerful shift that happens when we reclaim our power from the traitor within. Her life was shaped by a long history of trauma—including childhood sexual abuse that shaped her adult relationships and ultimately surviving kidnapping, rape, and attempted murder. Arci is the founder of Survivor School™ and creator of Break Free from CPTSD, a program that helps others uncover the hidden roots of self-sabotage and break free from the subconscious trauma responses keeping them stuck. Using applied neuroscience and neurohypnosis, she guides people through the process of regulating their nervous systems, rewiring survival responses, and reclaiming control of their lives.In this deeply personal episode of Your Traitor Within, Arci Grey shares her story—one that begins with unthinkable trauma: childhood abuse, kidnapping, rape, and an attempted murder that she wasn't supposed to survive.But Arci did survive. And then came the harder part—living.We talk about what it means to rebuild your life when your nervous system doesn’t know the difference between safety and sabotage. Arci opens up about the invisible aftermath of trauma and how Complex PTSD showed up as patterns that kept her from reaching her goals, sabotaging relationships, and believing she was worthy of anything more.This isn’t just a story of survival—it’s a reckoning. A raw, real conversation about what it takes to untangle your identity from your trauma… and what healing looks like when you stop trying to be who the world wants you to be, and start reclaiming who you were always meant to become.Arci also shares how she now helps other survivors reconnect with their internal resources, even when they feel broken beyond repair. If you’ve ever felt like your trauma has been running the show, this conversation is a must-listen.Want to go deeper? Arci is offering a free training for Your Traitor Within listeners, on how to start breaking free from the patterns of CPTSD. If this conversation hits home - this is a powerful next step in your healing. You can check that out here:https://www.survivor-school.com/free?ref=SilenceTheTraitorSupport the show

Felicity Nicole is the creator and owner of She Is You, the brand for midlifewomen seeking transformation and healing through a community oftogetherness; that’s why Felicity calls it a sisterhood, and her members aremidlife warriors. Felicity is a published author with her second book, Pieces ofMe, a memoir about her life growing up in a dysfunctional, abusive family, onlyto find herself married to an abusive husband. Her strength, courage, andresiliency pull her out of a dead-end marriage only to rebuild her life from theground up to become an author, speaker, wisdom teacher/spiritual healer;Felicity guides her clients who have found themselves in similar situations.Her passion for helping others, supporting women, and community outreach,Felicity, could be characterized as today's humanitarian. Felicity’s newlydiscovered love for herself her life, she can be found pursuing her master's inpsychology, love of dance classes, gardening, her pups, and mostimportantly, her son, her why behind everything she has created from scratchSocial links: Website https://sheisyoumag.com/https://sheisyoumag.com/membership/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/felicity_nicole_Support the show

Barb Eckert is a breathwork healer with an amazing story. Tune in to hear Barb's Traitor Within journey... Barb feels lucky to call Cape May her home. When not facilitating Breathwork sessions, Barb is devoted to volunteering in her community, playing pickleball, going on long runs and spending precious moments with her loving family and friend tribe.https://www.allthefeelshealingspace.com/homeSupport the show

Jackey Hall is the host of the Healing Sucks Podcast, an abuse survivor, and a passionate mental health advocate. Having personally struggled with the multifaceted effects of trauma—including generalized anxiety, eating disorders, OCD, and more—Jackey openly shares her healing journey daily on social media and through her podcast. She takes pride in providing survivors with a platform to reclaim their voices. Currently, Jackey is back in school pursuing her goal of becoming a psychotherapist. @jackeyhall @jessicaannepressler www.jessicaannepressler.comSupport the show

I’m with Margo Tucker, the founder and president of Tucker Senior Life Care and the author of Aging Guidebooks. For over 30 years, Margo has been a leader in the care management field—helping families navigate the healthcare system, access local resources, and advocate for their loved ones.Her work is deeply personal and profoundly impactful, offering guidance, education, and emotional support to families facing some of life’s most vulnerable transitions.Today, Margo is here to talk about her Traitor Within—the internal voice that creeps in during moments of doubt, and how she found strength not just in caring for others, but in turning inward and healing herself.www.jessicaannepressler.com@jessicaannepresslerSupport the show

Today's guest, Anthony Lario, is a publicist, writer, and content producer who specializes in helping talent authentically shape and share their stories across television, books, and online platforms. Anthony joins us to bravely discuss his personal experience with his Traitor Within—a self-sabotaging inner voice that first emerged during his college years, influencing him in ways he initially couldn't recognize. We're thrilled to have Anthony share his journey of self-awareness and overcoming these hidden obstacles. @jessicaannepresslerwww.jessicaannepressler.com Support the show

Paulie Calafiore is best known as an athlete and TV personality, with standout appearances on Big Brother and as a long-running cast member on The Challenge. Beyond the screen, Paulie is an outspoken advocate for bisexuality, mental health, therapy, and breaking fashion norms. And soon, you’ll see him in a new light—he’s about to begin filming a feature film.Today, Paulie’s here to share his story about his Traitor Within—his battles with self-sabotage, his path to self-discovery, and how therapy helped him reclaim his truth.@paulcalafiore_www.jessicaannepressler.comSupport the show

Sylvia Puentes is the host of the Saved By Grace Podcast and owner of Flourish Coach High Mentoring. Today, she shares how childhood influences nurtured her Traitor Within—an inner voice leading to repetitive behaviors in adulthood, especially in romantic relationships. Sylvia reveals the path she took to overcome these challenges and empower others.www.jessicaannepressler.com @sylpuentes www.kingdom-influencer.com Support the show

M, who would like to remain anonymous, shares her Traitor Within story. Anyone who would like to share their story anonymously is reminded that Your Traitor Within Podcast is a safe space, and your story will be treated with care. If you'd like to record your story, please email [email protected]. TW: Themes of abuse.Find resources and more online at www.jessicaannepressler.com Remember, in crisis, call 988 and in emergency, call 911. @jessicannepressler on Instagram@jessicaannepressler0 on TikTok Support the show

Lisa Johnson from "Been There, Got Out" @been_there_got_out shares about her Traitor Within.TW: themes of ab*se @jessicaannepresslerwww.jessicaannepressler.com Support the show

The Traitor as a Trigger & Suicidal IdeationTrigger warning: suicidal ideation.Jessica Anne Pressler, LCSW recounts her experience with suicidal ideation, the nuances of the Traitor Within, recourses, and more.www.jessicaannepressler.com@jessicaannepresslerSupport the show