A Contagious Smile Podcast

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When a narcissist targets you for abuse, they reserve a special kind of cruelty that no one else sees. This powerful episode pulls back the curtain on narcissistic abuse through raw, firsthand accounts that validate what countless survivors experience behind closed doors.

Dana and her co-host courageously share their personal journeys through narcissistic relationships, revealing how these master manipulators present a charming face to the world while systematically destroying their victims' sense of reality, self-worth, and safety. They discuss Dana's revealing book "Narc Narc, Who's There?" which documents through text messages...

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The unexpected viral success of our podcast has revealed a disturbing truth: millions of people recognize the nightmare of narcissistic abuse. While gratified to reach so many, we're heartbroken that our stories resonate with such a vast audience.

This episode takes a dark turn as we explore the shocking reality of narcissistic retaliation. Dana shares a chilling recent incident where someone targeted her daughter Faith's medical insurance shortly after our podcast gained popularity—calling to cancel coverage for a child who nearly lost her life earlier this year. This perfectly demonstrates ho...

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The unfiltered wisdom of teens takes center stage in this refreshingly honest conversation about youth mental health. When our teenage guests Kinsley and Faith join the podcast, they waste no time delivering hard truths about what young people actually need from the adults in their lives.

"Maybe not hound them so much about a couple of things on the floor of their room," Kinsley suggests when asked what adults can do better. This simple yet profound insight sets the tone for a discussion that peels back the layers of teen-adult communication...

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What does it mean to heal after narcissistic abuse? In this raw, unfiltered Q&A episode, Dana and Victoria tackle the questions that keep survivors up at night—from handling others' judgment to finding self-worth when everyone around you has tried to strip it away.

"I don't have to prove anything to anybody," Victoria asserts when addressing how to handle others talking down about you. This powerful statement sets the tone for a conversation that gives listeners permission to stop shrinking themselves for people who can't—or won't—see them clearly. The ho...

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Mark Wright's story redefines what's possible after traumatic injury. As the first amputee motorcycle officer in United States history, Mark demonstrates that our physical limitations are often far less restrictive than our mental ones.

When Mark crashed his motorcycle after a late-night shift, hitting a disabled vehicle with no lights, his world changed forever. Multiple compound fractures left his left foot "like it went through a meat grinder." Despite doctors' attempts at limb salvage, Mark knew from his Marine Corps experience that amputation was inevitable. What happened next stunned everyone—from am...

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The pollen count is high and so are the emotions in this raw, unfiltered conversation between Victoria and Michael. Between sneezes and watery eyes, they dive into the grueling realities of advocacy work—the sleepless nights, endless paperwork, and emotional toll that comes with fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves.

Victoria opens up about a new family she's working with, revealing the complex dynamics involved in cases with multiple children and parents. Michael courageously shares his personal experience as a male survivor of domestic abuse, shedding light on the si...

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Take a deep breath with us as we explore the transformation that awaits beyond toxic relationships. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, we step away from the heaviness of narcissistic abuse to focus on something equally important. This beautiful life exists on the other side of healing.

One host shares her harrowing health journey, describing how narcissistic abuse physically manifested as a life-threatening lung condition requiring constant oxygen support, with levels dropping to a dangerous 83%. Yet, within years of leaving that relationship, her body healed dramatically, a powerful metaphor for the emotional...

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Ever wondered what happens when you throw together a redhead, a redneck, and a family dynamic that thrives on elaborate pranks? This raw, unfiltered episode takes you straight into the chaotic heart of family relationships where shoes get thrown in restaurant parking lots and trucks become canvases for bird droppings and marshmallows.

But beneath the laughter lies something deeper. When our conversation shifts to children caught in divorce crossfire, we don't hold back. From personal experiences to heartbreaking stories of kids shuttled weekly between homes, we explore the real cost of...

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Taking a deep breath becomes an act of revolution after escaping narcissistic abuse. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Faith and Dana step away from their usual format to share profound insights about life after abuse—and why that journey is worth every difficult step.

Faith arrives emotionally drained from six days of intense advocacy work, including a harrowing six-hour standoff, prompting a candid discussion about the toll of supporting those still trapped in toxic dynamics. Rather than dwelling in darkness, they pivot to the transformative healing possible once survivors cross to th...

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Every survivor deserves a voice—regardless of gender. When Michael witnessed his wife Victoria's domestic violence advocacy work up close for the first time, it sparked a raw, necessary conversation about who abuse affects and how cycles can be broken.

Victoria pulls back the curtain on her nearly two decades as an advocate, showing how she bridges the gap between survivors, law enforcement, and the court system. She explains the crucial first steps an advocate takes when approaching authorities: "I am not a threat to you, I am a domestic violence ad...

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Heartfelt celebrations and serious conversations collide in this candid episode where we start by toasting Michael's first colonoscopy (yes, really!) and the clean bill of health that followed. It's a perfect reminder that sometimes the most uncomfortable moments become our greatest gifts to those we love - as Michael puts it, "I want to live longer for my family."

The energy shifts as we unveil our passion project: the Stucco Squad. This initiative for special needs children has consumed our hearts completely, with carefully crafted items from superhero bracelets that can...

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The moment Ken Kunkin made that fateful tackle during a Cornell University football game in 1970, his life's trajectory was forever altered. Left a quadriplegic with minimal movement in just his left arm, Ken faced a medical establishment that offered little hope—suggesting his future might consist of selling magazine subscriptions by telephone. Bu...

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Financial abuse remains one of the most powerful yet least understood tactics used by abusers to maintain control. In this raw, emotional conversation, two survivors share their hard-earned strategies for financially preparing to escape dangerous relationships.

The hosts reveal detailed methods that helped them break free—from getting cash back at checkout and removing that portion of receipts, to building reserves through reward programs, gift cards, and couponing. Their advice extends beyond merely saving money to creating comprehensive safety plans, including teaching children emergency protocols and maintaining "grab-and-go" safes with essential do...

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When Malcolm Goodwin reached out to thank Victoria for saving his friend's life, it reinforced exactly why the Contagious Smile podcast exists. "I'm not looking for praise or notoriety," Victoria shares with raw honesty. "When I went through this and was laying on the floor bleeding, not wanting to get up, I wished someone could say 'I've got you. You're not alone.'" That connection – knowing someone understands your darkest moments – can transform a tiny remaining spark into a wildfire of healing.

This episode unveils exciting new developments, including Victoria joining Came...

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In this heartfelt episode, It's a colorful tapestry woven from laughter, memories, and the anticipation of what lies ahead.

We discuss the nuances of gifting experiences over material items and reflect on what it means to prioritize relationships and shared moments. We also introduce an upcoming Podcast-a-thon aimed at supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation, an organization dedicated to bringing joy to children facing life-threatening illnesses, and provide insights into the transformative Give Kids the World charity.

Unpacking the significance of faith in our lives, we celebrate her inspiring journey, remarkable...

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What does it mean to transform personal trauma into a mission that uplifts others? Join Victoria and Michael as they unveil several groundbreaking initiatives designed to create safe spaces for those who need them most.

The excitement is palpable as Victoria announces their podcast-a-thon benefiting Give Kids the World, an extraordinary organization providing magical experiences for children with critical illnesses. This partnership with Make-A-Wish represents their commitment to creating meaningful moments for families facing unimaginable challenges.

Meet the Stucco Squad – named after Victoria's beloved service dog – a community where extr...

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Victoria and Michael open the doors to their new passion project, the "Stucco Squad" – a vibrant, supportive community designed specifically for children with special needs. Named after their service dog (who was in turn named after Victoria's law enforcement nickname), this initiative creates a space where extraordinary kids can connect, celebrate their uniqueness, and participate in engaging activities like coloring contests, themed worksheets, and creative challenges.

Drawing from their personal experiences – Victoria's own special needs journey and raising their daughter with special needs – they understand the profound impact of building self-worth in chi...

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Ready to take your podcasting journey to the next level? Join us as we unveil the strategies that have launched our show into the top 1% globally! This episode is packed with invaluable insights into niche selection, content creation, and behind-the-scenes looks at what it takes to grow an audience. Discover the tools that can streamline your production process, plus tips on how to connect with fellow podcasters and build a supportive community. We’re addressing common pitfalls and sharing how our very own Podcast Academy is designed to empower creators at every level. Wi...

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Discover the true value of community, love, and support in our latest episode that focuses on how we navigate family dynamics and overcome personal struggles. Co-host Dana bravely shares her recent experiences with illness, showcasing the incredible support found in close friendships. As we discuss the complexities of familial relationships, we delve deep into the dynamics of narcissism and how it can negatively impact our connections with loved ones.

Throughout the conversation, we highlight the importance of building strong bonds and how they can provide resilience against life's hardships. Hear authentic...

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Imagine a day where your phone takes a backseat, and family fun becomes the main event. We decided to unplug for a while and embrace the simple joys of technology-free bonding. Alongside the initial grumbles, we found laughter, productivity, and a surprising sense of fulfillment. Plus, you'll get a kick out of the prank that almost had Michael believing a beauty mishap — his quick thinking saved the day! Join us as we share heartwarming stories, including our unforgettable experience at Give Kids the World during Faith's Make-A-Wish trip. This magical place taught us ab...

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Ever announce your bathroom breaks at home? It might sound strange, but it's all part of the fun and laughter we share in our family. This episode, we introduce my wife Victoria's impactful book on dealing with life's real challenges, like navigating narcissists and setting boundaries with toxic family members. We also touch on the serious issue of cyberstalking, offering practical tips to keep your online presence secure. You'll hear personal stories about the importance of meaningful apologies and supporting those who've always had your back. 

Prepare for a rollercoaster of h...

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Imagine standing in a courtroom, tears of joy streaming down your face as your daughter reads a poem so touching that even the judge is moved. That's exactly the kind of emotional whirlwind we experienced when my husband officially adopted our daughter, Faith. This episode is all about that pivotal moment, the laughter, the tears, and the symbolic fresh start that came with replacing her birth certificate's past with a future filled with love and safety. We'll talk about how this adoption signifies a new beginning, freeing Faith from the shackles of a...

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What do you do when your estranged father becomes your cyberstalker? Victoria and I kick off our return after a rocky January by unraveling this unsettling tale. We share candid reflections and humor as Victoria opens up about her "sperm donor" father, who, despite his obsession, showed zero concern during her daughter Faith's health crises. Through this bizarre saga, we discuss the perplexing behavior of older individuals and the art of resilience and empowerment when facing narcissistic family dynamics. Look out for Victoria's upcoming book, which promises to dig deeper into these familial...

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What does it take to start anew and shed the past? Let's explore the courageous journey of our daughter Faith, who took the brave step of changing her first name and removing her biological father’s name from her birth certificate, reaching a poignant climax in a courtroom with her heartfelt poem that even brought the judge to tears. Meanwhile, we laugh about Faith's newfound penchant for colorful language, which has added an unexpected layer of humor to our family tapestry. Amidst tales of personal growth and resilience, we also share our excitement an...

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Have you ever wondered how differences can actually strengthen a relationship? Join us on our heartfelt journey in "Don't Judge Me," where my amazing co-host Brandi and I explore love, relationships, and self-esteem. In this episode, Brandi opens up about meeting her husband, David, online — a choice that was unconventional at the time. Their contrasting personalities, with Brandi's free spirit and David's stability, create a harmonious partnership that defies societal stereotypes and thrives on balance and growth. Together, we unpack the societal pressures that challenge self-worth and the vital role of self-acceptance in li...

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Brandy Van Holt's life is a testament to the power of resilience and authenticity. From overcoming the challenges of weight loss with the unconventional carnivore diet to embracing the chilling practice of ice water baths, Brandy shares her unique journey of self-improvement. Her mantra, "If I'm too much, go find less," not only encapsulates her defiance in the face of criticism but also serves as a rallying cry for those who feel marginalized. This episode takes you behind the scenes of her transformative journey, offering a profound look at how she molds adversity...

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What if the very people meant to nurture and guide you in childhood became the source of your deepest wounds? Join us as we unravel the complexities of growing up with narcissistic parents, especially fathers and father figures, who often leave an indelible mark on one's emotional landscape. Through raw and heartfelt stories, we shine a light on the journey of healing from a troubled upbringing and emphasize the importance of acknowledging past traumas to find solace and peace. We invite you to listen to these candid conversations as a reminder that you're...

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Did you know that fake fingernails and glitter body wash can lead to household chaos? Faith's mischievous escapades take center stage as we recount the hilarious pranks that had our family in fits of laughter. Amidst the giggles, we also engage in a spirited discussion about politics, sharing our thoughts on leaders like former President Trump and current President Biden. It's a candid exploration of the human side of decision-making in the political realm, filled with anecdotes and unexpected insights that bridge the gap between humor and reflection.

What happens when...

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Can a jump scare change the course of a conversation? It certainly did for Victoria and me as we kicked off our latest episode with a hilarious anecdote that left us both in stitches. From there, we plunged into the world of current events, giving a nod to Michael J. Fox's incredible honor of receiving the Medal of Honor and touching on the dynamic roles of public figures like Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris. Our conversation took an intriguing twist as we considered the evolution of video games, comparing the nostalgic allure of...

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What if the F-word was your secret weapon against a narcissistic parent? Join me and my sister, Dr. Victoria, as we share a raw and humorous exploration of our journey surviving a toxic family environment. Together, we unpack the unique language of resilience, where colorful expressions became our shield and solace against the harsh realities of growing up with a narcissistic mother. We also introduce the quirky community of Daughters of Toxic Mothers, offering a glimpse into the healing humor that binds us, with "ding dong" humorously signaling the end of a toxic...

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Nearly getting kicked in the face is not how most conversations begin, but when Victoria and I recount a hilarious jump scare incident, things take a playful spin. Our chat playfully careened into the realm of politics as we pondered Michael J. Fox's rumored Medal of Honor award, sparking dialogue about public figures like Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris. With laughter as our backdrop, we tackled serious societal issues, from terror threats to the impact of video games on violence, all while reminiscing about the innocence of classics like My Little Pony and...

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This episode explores the experiences of individuals raised by narcissistic parents and the impact on self-worth and identity. The hosts discuss stories from listeners about the pain of exclusion, battling the approval of family, and the differences in treatment between siblings, while emphasizing the importance of community and self-acceptance in the healing journey.

• Examining the pain of neglect and conditional love 
• Personal stories of missing out on significant moments 
• The role of the golden child and feelings of isolation 
• Seeking validation within oneself, rather than from toxic relationships 
• The im...

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Can your sense of security be restored after witnessing a threat firsthand? Join us as we reflect on our holiday season spent amongst family and our three golden retrievers, all while navigating the alarming incidents of domestic violence and terrorist attacks that have shaken our nation. As a former police officer, I recount a personal story of stepping in during a dire domestic violence situation, underscoring the need for proactive advocacy. We also touch on a frustrating encounter with Xfinity over a promotional offer, revealing the challenges faced by those with unique needs...

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