The Survivors Playbook

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What happens when you’ve done everything you can to protect your children—and they’re still being manipulated, alienated, or turned against you?

Many protective parents believe that letting go means giving up.
It doesn’t.

In this episode, Chantal explores one of the most difficult yet liberating mindset shifts you’ll ever make: learning to release what you cannot control without ever abandoning hope for your children.

You’ll discover:

● Why letting go is not the same as giving up.

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As protective parents, it’s easy to become consumed by the damage a narcissistic or abusive counter-parent is causing.
The lies.
But what if you’ve been underestimating your own influence?
In this episode, I explore one of the most important truths protective parents need to hear: your child does not need a perfect parent, they need a safe one.
You’ll learn:
✔ Why one emotionally healthy parent can dramatically impact a child’s long-term well-being
✔ The mistake many protective parents make when trying to counter narcissistic manipulation...

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You left the relationship, but somehow they’re still controlling your life.

In this episode, I dive into one of the most frustrating realities of post-separation abuse: the narcissistic ex-partner who refuses to let go. Whether they’re using the children, the court system, constant conflict, manipulation, intimidation, or endless communication to maintain control, many protective parents find themselves trapped in a cycle that feels impossible to escape.

You’ll learn:

● Why narcissistic counter-parents continue their abusive tactics long after separation
● The difference between co...

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This is such a powerful episode, that we recorded on June 1st, which happens to be International Narcissistic Abuse Awareness Day. In this episode, I connect with the amazing powerhouse that is Kimberly Weeks. You would not be able to tell, as she's so incredibly articulate, that she had to relearn how to walk and talk, after she left her abuser. 

She is the epitome of endurance, grit, determination, power, and also, vitality, intelligence, and goodness. 

This is a must listen to episode- you will leave fe...

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This is the episode for every protective parent. I walk you through what fight, flight, freeze and fawn responses look like in your child, why they experience these responses and how you can help them navigate them. 

This is a short but incredibly impactful episode designed to educate and empower you. 

Want to learn how I help protective parents, just like you, navigate this insanity?

 https://linktr.ee/chantalcontorinescoaching

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it all...

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In this episode, I talk to the amazing Sami Bachota, of Informed Healing. She tells us how she got into the work of helping survivors and we delve into her story. Married for only 10 months, but in and out of court for over 3 years. 

But, despite what her ex continues to do, drag her back to court and use the system to control her, she has built a life she loves.

This is a must listen to episode for every survivor of abuse. 

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In this episode, we talk about how so many protective parents feel like they are David, up against Goliath. Spoiler alert: David won, against every single odd, by not playing the way Goliath expected him to. 

A must listen for every protective parent navigating this all. 

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it all here at: https://linktr.ee/chantalcontorinescoaching

Follow me on Instagram: @chantal.contorines.coaching

This podcast is for...

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In this episode, we talk about the various forms of grief that so many protective parents feel and experience post separation. It's a powerful reminder that grief and joy can coexist and that just because you carry grief, doesn't mean you can't experience true happiness, peace and joy. 

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it all here at: https://linktr.ee/chantalcontorinescoaching

Follow me on Instagram: @chantal.contorines.coaching

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This is the very first instalment, or chapter, if you will, of my latest podcast within a podcast. Story Time with Chantal features the real life, can't make this shit up, stories from people just like you. I narrate them in the first person, using me/I, my children, my ex, but these are not my stories, they are yours. I do change some identifying markers, to keep you all safe from your ex's scrutiny. 

And reminder- that men and women can be victims, which also means, that men and women c...

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In this episode, recorded by Allison K Dagney, where I was a guest on her podcast, Be A Better You, we talk all things co-parenting with an active counter parent. While the topic is so very serious, Allison and I had a lot of fun recording it. 

You can find her on socials: @allisonkdagney or on all major podcast distributors Be a Better You Podcast.

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it all here at: https://linktr.ee...

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In this episode, I talk to the amazing Allison K Dagney about how you can actually rewire your beliefs to heal your trauma and your limiting beliefs. This is a powerful episode that takes us inside her new book: Hack Your Mind, Heal Your Heart.

This gives you the tools to start rewiring your subconscious beliefs and healing your trauma. How powerful is that?

You can find Allison on IG @allisonkdagney.

Her new book will be released to the public April 21st, 2026- and it's a gooder...

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This is such an important episode that focuses on the importance of teaching our children to be discerning and critical thinkers. While it's imperative for all children to learn these skills, it is never more so than for children who are being coercively controlled. 

Narcissistic abuse depends on control of the narrative, critical thinking restores ownership of the narrative.

I'll be hosting a free masterclass on this very topic, for all protective parents, in the next few months- so please stay tuned to my social media or sign up f...

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In this amazing episode, I talk to Amanda Nguyen, who was my very first guest, about how she has reconnected with one of her son's and her work to change legislation. It's a powerful episode full of action, hope and empowerment. 

You can find Amanda on IG at: @thebakealong

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it all here at: https://linktr.ee/chantalcontorinescoaching

Follow me on Instagram: @chantal.contorines.coaching

Th...

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In today's episode, I talk to he amazing Sarah Delamarter, who combines her vast knowledge of scripture with divorce. We talk about all things divorce, leaving toxic/abusive marriages, what Christ has to say about this, and how you can thrive post divorce, despite what your ex does or doesn't do. It's a fun, deep dive into the reality of divorce for those who have been raised to believe that marriage was sacrosanct, and divorce was not an option. You can find Sarah on IG at @sara.delamarter. 

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.c...

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In this episode, I talk about the power of your brand of unconditional love. How vital this is for your child, even if they are currently aligned with their abuser. It's a short but powerfully impactful episode. 

Want to learn more about to empower your children? My next masterclass, How to Empower Your Children, is February 12th, from 12:00-1:30 pm PST. It's live and recorded. You'll leave with 15 actionable tools and strategies you can actually start using that very day, to help educate and empower your children. To h...

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This is the episode for all protective parents navigating grief. We name it, we validate it and we learn to live with grief, while ensuring we also live lives with joy and happiness too. The two, grief and joy can in fact coexist. 

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it all here at: https://linktr.ee/chantalcontorinescoaching

Follow me on Instagram: @chantal.contorines.coaching

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal ad...

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In this lightning episode, I talk to Alexis Tanner, aka The Nutritionist Mama, about how she took control of her life, and healed herself using food, supplements and lifestyle changes. Stress, abuse, causes so many internal issues and ailments, but you can in fact, heal yourself, and it starts from the inside out. You can follow her on IG at @thenutritionistmama or via her website at: www.thenutrionistmama.com.

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it a...

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In this episode, I talk with advocate (lawyer), mediator, parenting coordinator and advocate for children and adults, Angela Jane Bates. She gives us her top 5 tips for navigating this and we talk all things worldwide family court. She's worked in various areas throughout the world, and ended up in family law.

 She's not only a wealth of information and whip smart, but is also funny AF.

You can find her on social media @familylawyersa

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

An...

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This is the episode for EVERY protective parent, especially during the holidays. I deep dive into what decision fatigue is, how it presents, and what you can do to help lessen it's impact on you. 

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it all here at: https://linktr.ee/chantalcontorinescoaching

Follow me on Instagram: @chantal.contorines.coaching

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. 

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In this episode, I talk to the amazingly knowledgeable Alex Mack of NarcSurvivorAdvocate about how to navigate family court. You know I'm not a proponent of entering into family court, but when you have to, or are forced to by the super fun narcissist, you need someone like Alex Mack in your corner, giving you the right tools and strategies. This is a must listen for anyone navigating the dumpster fire that is family court. 

You can find her on social media @narcsurvivoradvocate or on her website: exodusstrategyconsultants.c...

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In this episode, I talk about ways you, the protective parent, can protect your peace and create memorable moments that will surpass the chaos and confusion your counter parent just loves to create. It's full of insights, tips and reframes to help you enjoy the upcoming holidays with far more confidence, less pressure and less stress.

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it all here at: https://linktr.ee/chantalcontorinescoaching

Follow me on Instagram: @chantal.contorines.coaching

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In this incredibly educational and empowering episode, I talk to Charlie McCready, a parental alienation expert and coach. We explored the topic of parental alienation in depth, covering its dynamics, tactics, and emotional impact on both parents and children. The discussion concluded with insights on the challenges faced by narcissists and empaths in high-conflict situations, emphasizing the importance of self-care and personal growth for parents experiencing alienation. 

You can find Charlie on social media- @charliemccready1 or on his website at www.charliemccready.com. 

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn ho...

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In this episode we talk about the importance of injecting more playfulness and silliness into your home. Abuse and abusers rob victims, children and adults alike, of their ability to be playful and silly. Adding more playfulness and silliness in your home creates core memories, allows your children to simply be children, and helps to regulate their nervous systems. 

Lots of easy, low energy but high impact, ideas here. 

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And fin...

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In this episode, I talk to the amazing Dr. Torie-ACEs educator, author and speaker- about all things ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences, how our children are impacted by this, when they have an abusive parent, and how we, as protective parents can help support them. Dr. Torie is a wealth of information and is truly passionate about educating everyone about how these scores, how ACEs, show up in society, and how trauma impacts children. Knowledge truly is power and empowering, and this episode is exactly that: empowering. 

You can f...

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This is such a great conversation with the amazing Terri of Character Outs Podcast, who was raised by a covert narcissistic mom. We dive into her childhood, her adulthood, and how she make the very hard, but also, very necessary decision to go no contact with a mom who manipulated her at every turn. Spoiler alert- Terri has created a life she loves with a husband she loves, and children she loves and even a grandchild. It turns out, you can in fact create a great life and break cycles of dysfunction and...

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This is such a powerful episode, where I talk to the amazing, whip smart and incredibly articulate, Paola Telfer, a UBC electrical engineering grad, turned entrepreneur who created Sens.ai, a revolutionary at home brain training system. Her own accident, which left her at rock bottom and wanting to heal herself, was the catalyst for her wanting to create a system that was far more accessible to the average person. 

We dive into how this product can help survivors retrain their brain, create new neuropathways, and really live lives they love, d...

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This is part 2 of John's story- from toxic dysfunctional family, to marriage to a covert narcissist, to divorce, and the parental alienation that occurred both during as well as after the divorce. 

This is a story of triumph over pain, of creating rock solid impenetrable boundaries, of finding your people outside of your family of origin, of creating a life you love, despite what the abusers in your life do or don't do. 

John shows us how to live life outside of abuse, of manipulation, of rejection. 

You...

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This is Part 1 of John's story- you may know him as the creator of the social media page "Male Victims of Female Narcissists". He was raised in a dysfunctional and emotionally stunted family and then served over a life sentence with a woman who was not interested in a partnership, but rather, a dictatorship. He's suffered tremendous pain and suffering at the hands of those who were meant to love and support him. But, this pain has not stopped him from creating a life he loves, which has started with his creation of...

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This is the episode for every protective parent who is worried about how the abuse is affecting their child. For every protective parent (that includes you too, stepparents), who have watched their once bonded child align completely with their abusive parent. 

How many of you have sleepless nights, wondering if they'll ever see through the lies, confusion, brainwashing, and chaos? Wondering how they'll possibly ever come back to you?? This is Maegan's story, as a child with two narcissistic caregivers and one protective mom, a mom who never stopped loving her, s...

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In this episode, I talk to the amazing Carl Knickerbocker, of Unapologetic Parenting- he's a father, a husband, an ex husband, an author of not one, but two books, and to top it all off, he's also a divorce and family law attorney who has become an expert in narcissistic counter parents. We talk about the legal aspects, his tips for those divorcing a narcissist, hiring the right lawyer, and move into the ins and out of parallel parenting. This episode is full of nuggets, tools, tips and strategies to help you navigate...

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In this episode, I have the pleasure of talking to the amazing Dr. Nadine Macaluso, the ex wife of the Wolf of Wallstreet, therapist, author, and all around amazing human who turned her life completely around, with 2 young children, and with nothing to her name. 

We talk about trauma bonds and cognitive dissonance, and how these affect every survivor of narcissistic abuse, but also, children victims too. This episode is full of juicy tips and nuggets that I know are going to help you create a life you love, despite what t...

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This is the episode for anyone who has suffered, or is suffering from chronic pain. Wowza. Adriana shares her story of growing up with a narcissistic mom, to dating various narcissistic men (so common, as your body goes with what it knows), to suffering debilitating chronic pain attacks, in rapid fire. From this, to building a life she loves. It's a power half an hour full of tips and tools to help you navigate this with far more clarity and confidence, and also, hopefully, help you regain your own personal power. 

A...

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In this Episode, I talk about the importance of radical acceptance, reframing and mantras to help survivors, specifically those protective parents, navigate the ultra marathon that "co-parenting" with an active narcissistic counter parent is. I then move into a discussion about how these tools can help those protective parents whose children have been turned against them. It's a powerful episode full of insights and tools and mindset shifts to help you live a life you love, despite what the narcissist in your life, does, or doesn't do. 

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com t...

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In this episode, I talk to Courtney Gilmartin, a documentation expert, the founder of the Monarch Method, as well as the New Jersey Protective Moms  a Non-Profit organization. 

Documentation is truly the foundation of your case proving your ex's patterns of behaviour, so, it's vital that you become an expert in this area, as they are always going to counter parent, and very rarely do what's actually in your children's best interest. 

Courtney drops some key tips and tricks that are sure to help any protective parent listening in. 

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In this episode, I talk to the amazing Allison Dagney, emotional abuse recovery mentor, 2 times best selling author and host of her own podcast. She is both a survivor and an expert. She shares her story of abuse and escape with us, and then, shares her path to healing, which is full of helpful tips and tricks to help you create a life you love, despite what the abuser in your life does, or doesn't do. 

You can find her on IG at allisonkdagney or on her website a...

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In this episode, the amazing Renee Bauer, family law attorney, author and app creator, joins us to help you navigate the legal system and your lawyer, with more confidence, while giving you real life tips and tools that will save your sanity, your peace of mind, your time, your energy and your bank account. 

You can find Renee on IG @msreneebauer or via her website at: www.familylawyerct.com and her app: @parentcopilot 

Visit: https://chantalcontorinescoaching.com to learn how to work with me. 

And find it all...

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In this episode, I connect with the truly awe inspiring Jill Wise @the_enlightened_target, about her harrowing journey, from the child of a malignant narcissistic father to the wife of a narcissistic abuser, who later colluded with her father to fracture her bond with her son. Over a decade in the court system; having her ex and her father join forces; and experiencing her son be alienated from her. 

All of this could easily break a person. While Jill found herself at rock bottom, isolate, broke, and without her son, s...

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In this episode, I talk to the amazing Kelly Sutliff, a psychotherapist, a DV survivor, and the founder of a nonprofit Kelly's Canine. She was married for only 11 months, with no joint assets and no children, but her divorce took over 4 years. After the first and only instance of physical abuse, a series of horrific instances that were meant to end her life, Kelly hit rock bottom in the aftermath of this episode. But, she managed to climb back out and has created a life that she would never have imagined. This is...

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In this episode, I am joined with The Vanessa Reiser, survivor, therapist, mom, author, ironman, and narcissistic/cult expert. We delve into how victims can escape, become survivors and then learn to thrive despite what their exes do or don't do. Vanessa talks about her own personal story and how she climbed out from the bottom she found herself in and rebuilt her life from the ground up. She partners her own personal experience with her professional expertise on narcissistic abuse to provide us with tips, tricks, tools, and strategies for all those...

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Amanda Nguyen shares her story, from full time stay at home mom, who after 20 plus years, found herself in a custody battle with her abuser- a tug of war between her and her abuser, where the children were the rope. She chose to lay down the rope, with the hope and intention of being able to reconnect with her children.

Through this, she did hit rock bottom, she was suicidal, but, has built back her life all the while, learning how to stay in contact with her 3 boys who live fulltime...