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What happens when the “hero” turns out to be the monster? In part 2, acclaimed detective Paul Holes takes us into the darkest recesses of the criminal mind — dissecting the Gilgo Beach murders (Rex Heuermann), the tragic Micah Miller case, and showing how even smart, successful women can be hoodwinked by master manipulators. This is the episode every woman and every friend needs to hear for recognizing manipulative tactics, escaping control, and reclaiming your power. Paul (straight-up genius in criminal psychology), Nicole Schmidt, and I unpack: why the “rescuer” with a dark room is a huge red flag, how powerful men weaponize faith or mental health, and the horrifying stats about leaving abusive partners. We lay out, step by step, how to spot red flags early — and, most importantly, how to build a plan for your own safety when the system fails you. SHOWNOTES Why abusers pick certain women: the rescuing, the love bombing, the complianceSadistic predators and the “room you can’t enter”: The dark psychology of secret spaces Why women sometimes protect the abuser, and the heartbreaking cycle of complianceMicah Miller case: faith, coercive control, and the weaponizing of power“Predators go where the prey’s at”: doctors, pastors, psychologists aren’t always safeWeaponizing faith, weaponizing sex: the step-by-step tactics of abusersWhen mental health becomes just another weaponLegal loopholes, system failures, and why the restraining order isn’t always enoughAction steps: how to protect yourself, how to build your support networkReporting over and over… and still not being heard — the heartbreak of ignored warningsBringing it all home: concrete steps every woman can take right nowMicah’s last message. Why sharing and speaking out is the only way to create lasting change Thank you to today’s sponsors: Shopify: Sign up for a free trial at https://shopify.com/lisa Qualia: Go to qualialife.com/LISA and use code LISA for 15% off Follow Paul Holes: Check out his Patreon: patreon.com/kateandpaul. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paul.holes Buy his book “Unmasked”: https://a.co/d/08oJyivp  Follow The Gabby Petito Foundation: Website: https://gabbypetitofoundation.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabbypetitofoundation/?hl=en  Follow Me, Lisa Bilyeu: Website: https://www.lisabilyeu.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisabilyeu See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Introducing What If the Treatment Is Making You Worse? | Laura Delano & Blake Mycoskie from No Magic Pill with Blake Mycoskie. Follow the show: No Magic Pill with Blake Mycoskie At 13, Laura Delano was told she had an incurable mental illness and would need psychiatric medication to manage it. What followed were years of diagnoses, hospitalizations, multiple medications, and a worsening mental health crisis. In this episode of No Magic Pill, Blake Mycoskie sits down with Unshrunk author Laura Delano to explore the question that ultimately changed the course of her life: What if it wasn’t treatment-resistant mental illness? What if the treatment itself was part of the problem? Drawing from Laura’s two-decade journey and Blake’s own experience with a bipolar II diagnosis and psychiatric medication, they explore physical dependence and withdrawal, the risks of tapering too quickly, informed decision-making, and what can happen when we look beyond a diagnosis to understand the deeper context behind our suffering. This isn’t a conversation about being for or against medication. It’s about agency, curiosity, and asking better questions about our mental health—including one that reframed Laura’s own journey: instead of only asking “What’s wrong with me?” what if we also asked “What happened to me?” Because sometimes healing begins not with another quick fix, but with understanding what our pain has been trying to tell us. No quick fixes. No shortcuts. No Magic Pill. #NoMagicPill #BlakeMycoskie #LauraDelano Enough Foundation's mission is to spread reminders in every form — bracelets, messages, actions, community — until feeling ENOUGH becomes the cultural default. To learn more, visit weareenough.co.  Produced, Directed, and Cinematography by Wubetu Shimelash / IG: Wubetu Shimelash Disclaimer: No purchase necessary. While supplies last. Visit http://www.weareenough.co/rules for full terms. More information on Blake’s other projects here:  Morning Water  Morning Water is a daily hydration formula that restores energy, balance, and performance with essential electrolytes, minerals, and nutrients in one simple routine.  To learn more, visit morningwater.co and use code NOMAGICPILL for 25% off your first order. SONIA  Sonia is a conversational AI companion designed for emotional support. Through voice and text, it offers guided wellbeing sessions, including meditations, journaling, personalized recommendations, and practical exercises. To learn more, visit www.soniahealth.com and download it on the App Store. MOOVLAB At MOOVLAB, we bring health and wellness to your workday.  MOOVLAB - the answer to sitting is moving.  To learn more, visit www.moovlab.com Follow Blake on Instagram and stay up to date with Lemonada on Facebook and Instagram. For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at lemonadapremium.com. Subscribe to Spotify Premium to watch ad-free video. Disclaimer: This episode is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical questions or concerns you may have. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Ever wondered if you could be sleeping next to a psychopath... and not even know it? In this episode, I sit down with Paul Holes, (yes,THAT Paul Holes) the detective who cracked the Golden State Killer case. We dig into the scariest headlines lighting up the news right now: Hidden killers, the chilling Gabby Petito case, and how the seemingly "sweetest guy" could be hiding monstrous secrets. This one is heavy, raw, and so necessary for every woman who has ever questioned her gut, worried about control in her relationship, or just sensed something off but couldn’t put her finger on it. Paul brings his decades of investigative expertise, dissecting red flags most of us miss. We break down Gabby Petito’s tragic story step-by-step, what domestic violence looks like in real life (NOT just in textbooks!), and why even women’s closest friends or the cops sometimes get manipulated. Plus, I’m joined by Nicole Schmidt, Gabby’s unbelievably strong mom, who shares what she wishes she saw sooner… and what every woman, mother, and friend needs to hear. SHOWNOTES Can you really be married to a psychopath and not know it?How predators “pass” as normal & the Wild Bill Huff storyGabby Petito case: setting the timeline and heartbreakEvidence of emotional abuse — the “I’m sorry, it’s my OCD” patternThe mistakes police made and what should’ve happenedPolice protocols in domestic abuse: who gets arrested, who gets believedHow women can get help in domestic violence stopsStat: 51% of women don’t even know they’re being controlledNicole Schmidt (Gabby’s mom) joins: how manipulation fooled everyoneThe first red flags she missed: Gabby’s “I’m fine” mask, and the secret signals you need to look forHow criminality can run in families (and why you need to look at the family dynamic!)Rex Heuermann (Gilgo Beach Killer): predator hiding in plain sight, luring victims onlineWhy “it couldn’t happen to me” is the most dangerous mindset Thank you to today’s sponsors: Shopify: Sign up for a free trial at https://shopify.com/lisa Qualia: Go to qualialife.com/LISA and use code LISA for 15% off Follow Paul Holes: Check out his Patreon: patreon.com/kateandpaul. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paul.holes Buy his book “Unmasked”: https://a.co/d/08oJyivp  Follow The Gabby Petito Foundation: Website: https://gabbypetitofoundation.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabbypetitofoundation/?hl=en  Follow Me, Lisa Bilyeu: Website: https://www.lisabilyeu.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisabilyeu See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the second part of this enlightening conversation, Elle Macpherson discusses love, wellness, and overcoming life’s hardest moments with grace and determination. She opens up about her sobriety journey, redefining relationships, and why wellness is the foundation of empowerment. Elle shares actionable tips for navigating fear, building resilience, and creating a life that aligns with your true essence. From candid reflections on past relationships to starting her wellness company, Elle inspires listeners to take control of their journey and embrace the beauty of transformation. SHOWNOTES [00:00] Lisa and Elle explore how relationships reflect self-love and inner well-being. [07:01] The dolphin tattoo story: A moment of clarity and self-discovery. [12:03] How Elle turned pain into purpose by channeling her energy into creating her lingerie business. [20:17] Overcoming addiction: Elle’s powerful sobriety story and advice for breaking harmful patterns. [28:26] Facing fear with clarity: How Elle approached her cancer diagnosis with research and inner trust. [34:54] The wellness journey that led to founding WelleCo and transforming her health. [40:37] Aging gracefully: How Elle reframed beauty and vitality as soul-deep qualities. [50:02] The power of meditation and self-connection in creating a life of fulfillment. FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Elle Macpherson, one of the most iconic supermodels of all time, joins Lisa Bilyeu for a candid conversation about overcoming life’s toughest challenges. From battling alcoholism to navigating divorce and a cancer diagnosis, Elle shares the tools and mindset shifts that empowered her to reinvent herself and thrive in her 60s. In this episode, Elle dives deep into how to let go of external validation, the power of trusting your intuition, and her journey from self-doubt to self-love. She reflects on career-defining moments, personal growth through hardships, and how the lessons she’s learned can inspire women to embrace their strength at any stage of life. SHOWNOTES [00:00] Lisa introduces Elle’s inspiring story of reinvention and resilience. [02:14] Elle explains the importance of focusing on what you love and aligning with your heart. [03:38] How Elle learned to handle criticism early in her modeling career and use it as fuel for growth. [07:51] The power of self-reflection: Learning from mistakes without judgment. [09:26] Understanding the Four A’s (Approval, Agreement, Acceptance, Allegiance) and how they guide decisions. [12:32] Why listening to your intuition is like building a trusted friendship. [16:54] Elle’s life-changing decision to trust her gut and embrace unexpected opportunities. [22:25] Relationships as mirrors: What Elle discovered about self-love through her marriages. FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You know that feeling when you pour all your love and energy into someone… only to find yourself depleted, second-guessing, and begging for scraps? Homie, this is your episode. If you’re tired of being told you’re “too much,” exhausted by toxic loyalty, or want to become impossible to manipulate…hit play. In this conversation, I sit down with Margarita Nazarenko, author of “Unbothered,” advocate for radical self-worth, and the internet’s toughest love coach, for the raw, sometimes uncomfortable truth about why women outsource their value, fall for emotional breadcrumbers, and confuse drama with connection. Not only does Margarita break down the cycle of anxious and avoidant attachment (yes, she’ll tell you exactly which one you are), but she gives you real scripts, tactical moves, and mindset shifts to finally put your power back in your own hands. No empty affirmations, just the blueprint for creating unbreakable confidence and peaceful, drama-free relationships. Here’s exactly what we dive into: The “unbothered” mindset: How to validate yourself without toxic independenceScripts and pause tactics for breaking codependent patterns (text and real life!)How to trust “boring” love after chaos addiction (and why calm is actually chemistry)Negotiating power dynamics, resentment, and real partnership, without losing yourself Chapters Anxious vs. Avoidant Attachment: Jessica and Amanda Explained “Urgency Is Not Truth”: The Power of Pausing Before Reacting Why Anxious Attachment Attracts Manipulators (and Repels Healthy Men) The Three Ms: Mothering, Martyring & Managing in Relationships The Mental Load Dilemma: Partnership, Resentment, and Fair Trade-Offs Dopamine, Breadcrumbs & Phone Addiction: Why You Crave Their Attention “Look for Boring”: Detoxing from Adrenaline Addiction Care, Castration, and Masculinity: The Cost of Over-Functioning Guilt, Negative Voices, and the Art of Using Discomfort for Growth Reality Check: Handling Triggers, Rumination, and the Illusion of Closure From Anxious Chasing to Self-Respect: Stories That Change Everything Men, Masculinity, and the “Red Pill” Question Thank you to today’s sponsors: Shopify: Sign up for a free trial at https://shopify.com/lisa  Follow Margarita Nazarenko: Website: https://www.margaritanazarenko.com/theunbotheredwoman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margarita.nazarenko/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Margarita.Nazarenko  Follow Me, Lisa Bilyeu: Website: https://www.lisabilyeu.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisabilyeu See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever found yourself wrapped up in a relationship, only to wonder later if you were being manipulated? Well, today we're diving deep into the world of seduction, manipulation, and the often overlooked power dynamics at play with the help of CIA veteran Andrew Bustamante, who knows all too well how these tactics are used both in espionage and everyday life. In this eye-opening episode of Women of Impact, we’re pulling back the curtain on how the human brain can be influenced by hormones and emotional connections to uncover how to spot those red flags before you get too entangled. Andrew is here to break down the three-step process of human sexuality, explain how predators like narcissists find their targets, and give us the tools to protect ourselves from falling into manipulative traps. Trust me homie, with Andrew’s insights, you’ll gain a better understanding of the power dynamics at play and how to navigate them with confidence and clarity!! In this episode, we go DEEP into: - How YOU can identify and outsmart manipulators before they even have a chance to play their games - The surprising role hormones play in attraction and why understanding them can give you a serious edge in relationships - How to build authentic connections without falling prey to emotional persuasion - The real difference between seduction and genuine romantic interest - And soooo much more!! By the end of this episode, you’ll have a toolkit to recognize and deflect manipulation, understand the role of hormones in emotional and sexual engagement, and maintain control in your relationships. So guys, no more second-guessing or blaming yourselves when things feel off. This episode will arm you with the knowledge to stand strong against manipulation and build relationships that genuinely respect your worth and boundaries!! So let’s dive right in, guys!! I’m Lisa Bilyeu and welcome to Women of Impact. SHOWNOTES Ambitious folks just want to feel seen.Life cycle: belonging, connecting, leading, creating.Assumptions help the brain save energy, easily.Vasopressin boosts belonging, fuels frequent hookups.Ravens need more time with female targets.Sex boosts brain power differently for everyone.Exploited admin vulnerabilities for secrets over decades.Czechoslovakian spies faked marriage, stole U.S. secrets.Think logically, not emotionally, to avoid mistakes. FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever found yourself wrapped up in a relationship, only to wonder later if you were being manipulated? Well, today we're diving deep into the world of seduction, manipulation, and the often overlooked power dynamics at play with the help of CIA veteran Andrew Bustamante, who knows all too well how these tactics are used both in espionage and everyday life. In this eye-opening episode of Women of Impact, we’re pulling back the curtain on how the human brain can be influenced by hormones and emotional connections to uncover how to spot those red flags before you get too entangled. Andrew is here to break down the three-step process of human sexuality, explain how predators like narcissists find their targets, and give us the tools to protect ourselves from falling into manipulative traps. Trust me homie, with Andrew’s insights, you’ll gain a better understanding of the power dynamics at play and how to navigate them with confidence and clarity!! In this episode, we go DEEP into: - How YOU can identify and outsmart manipulators before they even have a chance to play their games - The surprising role hormones play in attraction and why understanding them can give you a serious edge in relationships - How to build authentic connections without falling prey to emotional persuasion - The real difference between seduction and genuine romantic interest - And soooo much more!! By the end of this episode, you’ll have a toolkit to recognize and deflect manipulation, understand the role of hormones in emotional and sexual engagement, and maintain control in your relationships. So guys, no more second-guessing or blaming yourselves when things feel off. This episode will arm you with the knowledge to stand strong against manipulation and build relationships that genuinely respect your worth and boundaries!! So let’s dive right in, guys!! I’m Lisa Bilyeu and welcome to Women of Impact. SHOWNOTES 00:00 Dopamine and noradrenaline make things exciting. 08:52 Taylor Swift shirt makes me seem harmless. 15:51 Can't keep up with Taylor Swift convo. 18:59 She hits the gym hard daily, for sure! 25:50 Attraction and connection often lead to affairs. 27:53 Energy level ups with more intense activity. 33:53 Seduction in spy work: Building trust, not sex. 37:59 Women worry about being manipulated or seduced. FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you've ever been controlled by someone mentally or emotionally, then you know how crushing it is to your confidence, your self-esteem, and your belief in yourself.  You question HOW this person convinced you to do or say or believe things that you KNOW deep down to your core are not true? WHAT did they do to get you to fall for the lies and change so much, without you even frikin’ realizing it? And HOW can you make sure it doesn’t happen to you again??  Well homie, the reality is that this type of manipulation happens more often than you might think, 1 on 1 in toxic relationships and sometimes even whole groups of people at a time in a cult.  So in this episode of Women of Impact, I wanted to get to the bottom of how good, well-intentioned, educated, “normal” people like you and me can fall into the trap of a controlling person like a cult leader or narcissistic romantic partner, and literally leave behind their life, family, job, money, friends, belief system, sanity, and everything about themselves for this person.  And whether it’s coz of a cult, a toxic partner, or a guy at work that keeps trying to convince you to join this “amazing self-help group”, if you think it “won’t happen to you” – well homie you’re actually that much more likely to become their next target and victim!!!!  And that’s why today’s guest is none other than the ultimate cult expert and deprogrammer, Rick Alan Ross. This guy is an aboslute LEGEND when it comes to cults!! We go deep into:  - the type of people who start cults.- how cults like NXIVM and Scientology bring people in.- what specifically makes a person more vulnerable to saying yes and “drinking the Kool-aid”.- strategies used by notorious cult leaders to gain control and brainwash people (and you’ll be surprised by what they have in common with your toxic ex!!!).- HOW you can actually avoid getting into a cult or toxic relationship in the first place.- & so much more!!! This episode is truly FILLED with the knowledge you NEED if you want to have any hope of spotting the cult leaders, con men, and toxic boyfriends BEFORE they can rope you, or anyone you love, into their manipulative world and cut you off from the life YOU want to live!!!  Follow Rick Alan Ross: Website: https://culteducation.com/ X: https://x.com/RickAlanRoss Get “Is This a Cult?”: https://a.co/d/hKoEsRt FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Lindsay Clancy case is one of the most gut-wrenching tragedies making headlines, and has torn the public opinion, (and even relationships) apart. Was it unspeakable heartbreak? Psychosis? Or criminal intent, plain and simple? Today, I’m joined by forensic psychologist Dr. Shannon Curry, the woman who bravely took the stand in the Depp-Heard trial, to unravel the real-life consequences every woman needs to think about. Not just for herself, but for every mother, wife, and daughter who might need help before it’s too late. We break down the psychology, the law, and those impossible “what would I do?” dilemmas that are dividing men, women, and the world. Here’s exactly what we dive into: The difference between baby blues, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis (and why most mothers never, ever hurt their children)The systems failures that are failing mothers, and what HAS to changeWhy women often hide dark thoughts, and why “blaming the husband” misses the real pointThe crucial first step to get help, without fear, shame, or losing your kids Chapter Titles: Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression vs. Psychosis: The Real Risks The Truth About Postpartum Psychosis and Filicide: Numbers No One Tells You Meds, Misdiagnosis & System Failure: Is This the Real Root? Overmedication, Missed Warnings & Hindsight Bias Should Kids Be Taken Away? The Danger of Overreaction Intrusive Thoughts vs. Hallucinations: How to Tell the Difference Did the Medical System Fail Her? Ethics, Testing, and Protocol Debates Why This Case Divides Men and Women, and the Hidden Biases at Play Can Insanity “Set You Free”? What Actually Happens If You’re Acquitted If You’re Struggling Right Now: What to Do and How to Get Help “I Don’t Feel Understood”: How Partners Can Actually Hear Each Other Thank you To our Sponsors: Shopify: Sign up for a free trial at https://shopify.com/lisa Qualia: Go to qualialife.com/LISA and use code LISA for 15% off Need Support? These Resources Can Help:   988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/  The National Maternal Mental Health 24/7 Hotline: https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=24031728478  National Helpline for Mental Health, Drug, Alcohol Issues | SAMHSA:  https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/national-helpline    Follow Shannon Curry: Website: https://currypsychology.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currypsychgroup Follow Me, Lisa Bilyeu: Website: https://www.lisabilyeu.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisabilyeu See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to part 2 of this transformative episode of Women of Impact with the phenomenal Thais Gibson! We’re diving deeper into the stages of relationships and revealing the critically important role of understanding attachment styles. Seriously, homie, once you grasp these concepts, you’ll have a whole new perspective on your relationships. You’ll learn how to navigate the power struggle stage, set healthy boundaries, and communicate your needs effectively – all essential skills for building a rock-solid connection with your partner. Ready to reclaim your relationship power? Let’s jump right back in!   SHOWNOTES Understanding the real challenges behind the power struggle phase and how to grow from itRecognizing attachment styles and how they shape your relationship behaviorsMastering the art of communicating needs effectively without spiraling into conflictBreaking free from toxic patterns and moving toward stable, committed, and blissful relationshipsAnd soooo much more!!! FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Women of Impact! I'm your host, Lisa Bilyeu. You know the feeling when you're in a relationship that's going so well, but suddenly you hit a rough patch? It's like everything was sunshine and rainbows, and then BOOM, you're questioning everything. You think, 'If we were so right for each other, why does it feel so hard now?' You’re constantly wondering if this is just a phase or if it’s a sign you’re not meant to be. You start doubting yourself, your partner, and maybe even relationships as a whole. Well, let me break it down for you! You’re not alone in this. Being in a relationship comes with stages and trust me, they aren't all easy-breezy. We go from the excitement of dating to the honeymoon phase and then hit the power struggle – the make-or-break stage where vulnerability and communication are EVERYTHING. But don’t worry, homie! Today’s episode is a crash course in navigating these stages with grace and insight. Our special guest, Thais Gibson, is here to guide us through the maze of relationship dynamics. If you've ever found yourself caught in a whirlwind of relationship struggles and doubted if you could ever find stability and happiness, this episode is your guide to transformation! You’ll walk away equipped to handle challenges with compassion and clarity, and learn how to turn those tough moments into building blocks for a stronger connection.   SHOWNOTES Understanding the real challenges behind the power struggle phase and how to grow from itRecognizing attachment styles and how they shape your relationship behaviorsMastering the art of communicating needs effectively without spiraling into conflictBreaking free from toxic patterns and moving toward stable, committed, and blissful relationshipsAnd soooo much more!!! FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Let’s get real: ever wonder why you sometimes second-guess yourself even when you KNOW something’s not right? Or why people, yes, even “friends,” partners, or bosses, can keep you stuck, controlled, or exploited for YEARS? This second half is your masterclass on psychological defense and reclaiming your power. Former CIA ops officer Andrew Bustamante is back, ripping the lid off the step-by-step manipulations used by abusers, cult leaders, narcissists, and even the “nice guy” you’re dating. He breaks down his framework for vetting trust, seeing through hidden motives, and how to un-park yourself from a relationship where you’re “on the backburner.” If you want the bulletproof system for seeing through lies, protecting your heart, and never getting played again, this is your guide. SHOWNOTES The disposal (“parking”) framework: How cheaters keep you on the back burner How to spot when the “new normal” in your relationship is a trap “Switch tracking”: The hidden sign someone’s changing your reality Wanted vs. unwanted information: The question that reveals honest intent Detecting lies: how CIA ops actually build trust (operational tests you can use today) False assumptions, unwanted info, and feelings-based vetting  Vet, validate, analyze, and synthesize: The CIA trust formula for your relationships  Synthesis: making choices that ACTUALLY serve you (and not the abuser’s agenda)  Thank you to our sponsors: Shopify: Sign up for a free trial at https://shopify.com/lisa OneSkin: 15% off with code LISA at https://oneskin.co/lisa Follow Andrew Bustamante: Find your Spy Superpower: https://yt.everydayspy.com/4asr05N  Read Andy’s CIA book ‘Shadow Cell’: https://geni.us/ShadowCellBook   Follow Andy on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Andrew-Bustamante  Explore Spy School: https://everydayspy.com/   Support Andy's sponsor Axolt Brain: https://axoltbrain.com/andy  Listen to the podcast: https://youtube.com/@EverydaySpyPodcast  Follow Me, Lisa Bilyeu: Website: https://www.lisabilyeu.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisabilyeu See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever get that chill down your spine, the one that whispers, “You’re being watched” or “He’s hiding something”? You question yourself. You second-guess your intuition. And before you know it, you’re tangled in someone else’s game. In this first half of our conversation, I’m sitting down with a former CIA spy and human behavior expert who’s about to blow open the playbook on manipulation, lying, and the dark side of seduction. We break down exactly how predators target women, from body language to emotional hooks, plus, the CIA frameworks you can use to stay two steps ahead and protect your power. SHOWNOTES: The body language shift that makes you untouchable Simple hacks to avoid being targeted (and why sunglasses work) Target the strays: Why isolation makes women vulnerable Digital manipulation: How tech amplifies danger for women Control by rideshare: Everyday ways we give up safety Filters vs. funnels: How abusers “pre-select” their victims online The authority con: Why we don’t question doctors, teachers, or “father figures” The RICE framework: The 4 levers manipulators use to control women Thank you to our sponsors: Shopify: Sign up for a free trial at https://shopify.com/lisa OneSkin: 15% off with code LISA at https://oneskin.co/lisa Follow Andrew Bustamante: Find your Spy Superpower: https://yt.everydayspy.com/4asr05N  Read Andy’s CIA book ‘Shadow Cell’: https://geni.us/ShadowCellBook   Follow Andy on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Andrew-Bustamante  Explore Spy School: https://everydayspy.com/   Support Andy's sponsor Axolt Brain: https://axoltbrain.com/andy  Listen to the podcast: https://youtube.com/@EverydaySpyPodcast  Follow Me, Lisa Bilyeu: Website: https://www.lisabilyeu.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisabilyeu See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of Women of Impact with your host, Lisa Bilyeu! Today, we are diving deep into the art and psychology of seduction with the legendary author of "The 48 Laws of Power," Robert Greene. In this episode, we'll uncover the intricate dynamics of seduction, exploring the strategic tactics and psychological nuances that have influenced relationships throughout history and into the digital age. Join us as Robert reveals the powerful concept of the "sublime" from his upcoming book, sharing insights inspired by his near-death experience. We’ll delve into the emotional complexities of love, the impact of social media on our fantasies, and the timeless dance of masculine and feminine energies in relationships. Lisa and Robert don’t shy away from controversial topics, touching on manipulative techniques like negging and isolation, while emphasizing the importance of authenticity and emotional intelligence. Get ready to challenge your perspectives, learn how to protect yourself from manipulation, and understand the deeper layers of attraction. SHOWNOTES Interviewed 103-year-old author Noel post-accident.Seduction involves complex emotions of pleasure-pain.Show effort specific to her interests continually.Seduction: Women's ancient strategy to gain power.Women prioritize emotions over looks in attraction.Stardom's impact diminished due to technology.Exploring the sublime in our contracted world.Acknowledge mentor's impactful work; use knowledge responsibly. FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.