Are they a covert narcissist—or are they just being a jerk?
That’s one of the most common (and most confusing) questions I hear from clients and listeners. In this episode of the Covert Narcissism Podcast, we break down real-life examples of those cutting, guilt-laced, or backhanded comments that leave you wondering: Was that emotional abuse, passive-aggressive manipulation, or just a bad moment?

From relationship red flags like “Must be nice to have that kind of freedom”, to parental guilt trips like “After all I’ve done for you…”, we’ll look at how to spot the signs of covert narcissism versus everyday jerk behavior.

You’ll learn how to recognize emotional invalidation, gaslighting, guilt trips, and passive-aggressive abuse—and how to tell when it’s a manipulative pattern instead of a one-off mistake.
If you’ve been left second-guessing your reality, feeling invisible or emotionally punished, this episode will help you find clarity.

Ever walk away from a conversation feeling more confused than when you started—like somehow, even though you were calm, kind, and clear, you’re the one apologizing again?

Welcome to the maddening world of circular conversations with a covert narcissist.

In this episode, we dive into the logic-defying, soul-draining dynamics that keep you stuck in emotional loops—where nothing gets resolved, the goalposts always move, and your reality is constantly twisted. Before you even had the words “covert narcissism,” you probably felt it: the confusion, the guilt, the slow erasure of your clarity and confidence.

You’ll hear a dramatized conversation that shows how these patterns unfold, how covert narcissists derail resolution, and what gaslighting really sounds like behind closed doors. More importantly, we’ll explore how to step out of the spiral—with grounded examples, boundary-setting phrases, and reminders that you’re not crazy. You’re being manipulated.

If you’re tired of talking in circles and ready to reclaim your peace, this one’s for you.

In this episode of the Covert Narcissism Podcast, we take a much-needed breath of fresh air—literally and emotionally.

If I weren’t talking about covert narcissism every week, I’d be out in the woods learning survival skills: building fires, navigating with moss, and figuring out which berries won’t kill me. Why? Because sometimes, healing from covert narcissistic abuse means taking a step back to reconnect with who you are outside the trauma.

This episode is your invitation to pause the obsessive thoughts about the covert narcissist, stop decoding emotional abuse for just a moment, and remember what it feels like to simply be you.

We’ll explore:

• Why it’s essential to take breaks during narcissistic abuse recovery
• How constantly thinking about narcissism can keep you stuck
• What stepping back does for your nervous system, your identity, and your healing
• A fun peek into what I’d be doing if I weren’t talking about emotional abuse every week