On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern talks with Vanessa Reiser. Vanessa is a licensed clinical social worker, an expert on narcissistic abuse, the author of Narcissistic Abuse, and the founder of a teletherapy and life coaching practice that’s changing lives by helping people heal from the trauma of narcissistic relationships.

Vanessa’s personal journey is one of resilience and empowerment. After growing up in a household filled with instability and facing trauma from a young age, Vanessa found herself in a relationship filled with gaslighting, manipulation, and isolation—classic tactics of a narcissist designed to distort reality and erode the victim’s sense of self.

She broke free from this toxic cycle, and today, she dedicates her life to helping others do the same. She brought attention to narcissistic dometic abuse by running across NY State in a wedding dress.

In her book, Narcissistic Abuse, Vanessa breaks down the full range of tactics narcissists use, from gaslighting to love bombing, hoovering, and triangulating. She shows how these behaviors, which are often difficult to recognize, are part of a broader pattern of emotional abuse. Narcissistic abuse, as Vanessa emphasizes, is a form of domestic violence—one that leaves lasting psychological scars. Her book provides strategies for identifying, escaping, and healing from these toxic relationships, empowering victims to reclaim their lives.

Vanessa also operates a teletherapy and life coaching practice, where she guides survivors of narcissistic abuse toward healing and self-discovery. She helps clients recognize the gaslighting and manipulation they've endured, clarify their goals, and overcome the obstacles holding them back. Vanessa’s unique approach combines her clinical expertise with tailored life coaching techniques, helping people rebuild their confidence and manifest the life they deserve.

Today, we’ll explore Vanessa’s story, her expertise on gaslighting and narcissistic abuse, and how her coaching practice helps survivors reclaim their power.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Dr. Robin Stern's Books:

The Gaslight Effect

The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide

Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode of The Gaslight Effect podcast, Dr. Robin Stern explores the shadows of manipulation and the journey toward reclaiming our truth with a guest who knows this struggle all too well: Jessi Hersey.

Jessi is a queer neurodivergent author and a Pencraft Award winner, featured in Netflix's Escaping Twin Flames docu-series, where she shares her harrowing experience of escaping the Twin Flames Universe cult, a journey marked by intense gaslighting that threatened her identity and sense of self.

Jessi's collection of poetry, Lit Soul: My Journey Back to Faith, takes readers on an honest exploration of love, loss, and the search for belonging. Written in four heartfelt sections, this book reflects on her life from age six to the present, highlighting the journey of rediscovering faith and the strength that comes with it.

Beyond her own story, Jessi is the host of Jessistories, a dynamic interview-style channel that provides a platform for cult survivors to speak out about their experiences with manipulation and emotional abuse. This inclusive space embraces queer authors, influencers, and creators, emphasizing that every story matters in the fight against gaslighting.

Robin and Jessi delve into Jessi’s incredible journey of resilience, the tactics of gaslighting she faced, and the importance of sharing our truths. Whether you’re navigating your own challenges or seeking to understand this complex issue better, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Dr. Robin Stern's Books:

The Gaslight Effect

The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide

Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern talks with Marceia Cork, also known as The Change Coach®.

Marceia is SHRM, HRCI, PROSCI®, and Grief Recovery Method® certified, with expertise in restorative communication. She specializes in helping people navigate the difficult journey of change by addressing a core issue that many of us overlook—grief.

Through her multimedia brand The Change Coach Presents™, Marceia has developed non-clinical frameworks like The Good Grieve, empowering individuals to heal from unconscious grief, emotional manipulation, and the toxic effects of relationships.

Marceia is the author of The Good Grieve: A Guide for Exploring What Life Can Look Like After Loss, Trauma, and Hardship for adults, and My Good Grieve: A Youth's Guide to Navigating Loss, Trauma, and Hardship... the Good Way for younger audiences. Both workbooks offer her proprietary, non-clinical approach to grief recovery, giving people tools to rebuild after trauma.

Marceia’s unique approach to change and transformation has been featured in The Boston Globe, ESSENCE, Forbes, and FOX. On her top 100 podcast, Oooh, Those Effin’ C-Words, she dives deep into trauma and healing, bringing clarity to how unresolved grief can be manipulated by gaslighters. On this episode, Marceia shares her insights on identifying gaslighting in relationships, addressing the grief that it causes, and reclaiming your sense of self.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Dr. Robin Stern's Books:

The Gaslight Effect

The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide

Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern is joined by returning guest Dr. Steven Hassan, one of the world's leading experts on cults and undue influence. Steven is a mental health professional, former member of the Unification Church (familiarly known as "The Moonies") led by Sun Myung Moon, and the author of several bestselling books, including Combatting Cult Mind Control, Freedom of Mind, and The Cult of Trump.

In The Cult of Trump, Steven delves into how gaslighting and mind control techniques are used not only in cults but in political movements to distort reality and create confusion. Drawing on his personal experience as a former member of a high-control group, he developed the BITE Model, which explains how behavior, information, thought, and emotional control are used to manipulate individuals.

On today's episode, Robin and Steven explore the role of gaslighting in authoritarian movements, cults, and abusive relationships. Steven will share his insights on how these tactics manipulate our thoughts and beliefs, and how we can arm ourselves with the tools to resist, recover, and regain our sense of reality.

You won't want to miss this eye-opening conversation with Steven Hassan, as we uncover the psychology behind gaslighting and how to protect yourself from its damaging effects.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Dr. Robin Stern's Books:

The Gaslight Effect

The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide

Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern talks with her good friend and colleague, Dr. Janet Patti, Ed.D.

Dr. Patti is the Co-Founder and CEO of Star Factor Coaching, a leadership development organization specializing in the science of emotional intelligence. She is also a distinguished Professor of Administration and Supervision at Hunter College, CUNY. With over 25 years of experience in education and leadership, Janet has become a renowned figure in social and emotional learning (SEL) and educational leadership development.

In addition to her extensive work in the field, Janet is the co-author of the profoundly insightful book Emotional Intelligence for School Leaders, written with Dr. Robin Stern. This essential work advocates for the integration of social-emotional learning as a fundamental skill set for K-12 school leaders. Drawing upon modern research from psychology and education, along with their combined 40 years of experience, Dr. Patti and Dr. Stern provide practical coaching and guidance on how emotional intelligence can enhance leadership practices. They illuminate the myriad benefits of SEL-focused professional development for superintendents, principals, and aspiring school leaders.

In today's episode, we'll be exploring the concept of gaslighting, particularly how it can manifest in educational and organizational settings. Dr. Patti will share her expertise on how gaslighting can undermine leadership, erode trust, and impact decision-making processes. She will also offer strategies for recognizing and countering gaslighting, drawing from her experience and the powerful insights from her book.

Whether you're a school leader, educator, or simply interested in understanding more about emotional intelligence and the effects of gaslighting, this episode is for you. Stay tuned as we dive deep into these critical topics with Dr. Janet Patti.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

In this compelling episode of The Gaslight Effect Podcast, Dr. Robin Stern is joined by Dr. Christine Marie Cocchiola, DSW, LCSW, a Coercive Control Educator, Researcher, Survivor, and the host of the Perfect Pray Podcast. With a career dedicated to protecting children from abuse, Christine has been an advocate since the age of 19. Despite her deep expertise, she shares how even she missed the signs of coercive control in her own relationship.

Christine offers her unique insights into the devastating impact of gaslighting—a psychological tactic that manipulative partners use to make victims question their reality. We delve into her eye-opening book, Frame, which serves as a five-alarm warning to women about the gender-biased underworld of family courts, where many face unimaginable challenges during divorce or custody battles.

This episode also explores how protective parents can support their children who have been harmed by coercive controllers, often narcissistic abusers. Christine provides a framework for guiding these parents in showing their children a path to freedom and healing.

This is essential listening for anyone looking to understand the dangers of gaslighting and coercive control, and how to navigate these challenges to protect yourself and your loved ones. Don’t miss this vital conversation with one of the foremost voices in the fight against domestic abuse. Make sure to share a copy of Frame with the women you care about—it could be the warning they need.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern delves into the intricacies of mental health, personal growth, and relationships, with her guest, Dr. Judith Logue. With over 50 years of experience in the field, Dr. Logue is a renowned psychotherapist and psychoanalyst who has dedicated her career to helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of their emotional and mental well-being.

Dr. Logue's extensive background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Government from Wheaton College, a Master's Degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, and a Ph.D. in Social Work with a focus on psychology from Rutgers Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. She is also certified in psychoanalysis by the New York Center for Psychoanalytic Training and holds multiple board certifications in forensic medicine and psychological specialties.

Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Logue has practiced in various locations, including California, New York City, Princeton, NJ, and currently in Port Saint Lucie, Florida. Her professional roles have spanned clinical social work, psychotherapy, clinical faculty positions at Rutgers Medical School, and teaching roles at several prestigious psychoanalytic institutes.

Dr. Logue joins Robin to shed light on a particularly insidious form of psychological manipulation: gaslighting - a type of emotional abuse where the abuser manipulates the victim into doubting their own perceptions, memories, and sanity. With her vast experience and expertise, Dr. Logue will help us understand the mechanics of gaslighting, its impact on mental health, and strategies for recognizing and combating this form of abuse.

So, whether you're seeking to better understand this phenomenon or looking for ways to support someone who might be experiencing it, stay tuned for an insightful and empowering discussion with Dr. Judith Logue.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.

On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern talks with Dr. Laura Artusio, where they explore the intricacies of emotional manipulation, mental health, and the journey to reclaiming one's sense of self. Dr. Artusio's expertise in emotional intelligence and psychology provide critical insights into the mechanisms and impacts of gaslighting.

Dr. Laura Artusio, a psychologist and research fellow at the University of Florence, directs the Laboratory of Psychology, Emotions & Research (PERLAB) and has been a key collaborator with the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence since 2009. As the coordinator of the RULER approach in Italy, she focuses on integrating Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into educational systems and addressing emotional well-being in various professional settings.

Dr. Artusio's work delves into the core of how emotions influence our behavior and interactions. She has trained thousands of individuals on emotional intelligence, helping them understand and manage emotional abuse, such as gaslighting, in both personal and professional contexts. Her research includes studies on the effects of emotional intelligence in high-stress environments, like aviation, supported by the U.S. Air Force.

Dr. Artusio shares her insights on recognizing the subtle signs of gaslighting, strategies for maintaining emotional resilience, and the importance of emotional intelligence in overcoming manipulation. Her expertise provides a powerful lens through which we can better understand and counteract the damaging effects of gaslighting.

To read the full transcript of this episode, head over to robinstern.com.

Don't forget to subscribe to The Gaslight Effect Podcast on your favorite podcast platform, and be sure to leave us a review to let us know what you think. Until next time, remember: healing is a journey, and you don't have to walk it alone.

Dr. Robin Stern's Social Media Links:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drrobinstern/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dr.robinstern/

Twitter (X) - https://twitter.com/RobinSStern

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on The Gaslight Effect Podcast do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything.