A QUICK WARNING: This episode contains discussions of traumatic events, violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, and graphic language. Listener discretion is advised. On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern dives into the extraordinary journey of Jessica Willis Fisher—a tale of survival, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Jessica's story unfolds with the haunting echoes of a tumultuous childhood, where the enigmatic philosophies of her controlling father cast a long shadow over her early years. From dreams of being surrounded by books to fantasies of becoming an author, Jessica's aspirations were stifled by the suffocating grip of manipulation and gaslighting. In her gripping memoir, "Unspeakable: Surviving My Childhood and Finding My Voice," Jessica offers a searing account of a life shaped by silence, secrecy, and the insidious tactics of gaslighting. Through the chaos of her upbringing, she grappled with doubts about her own reality—wondering if other girls faced the same forbidden truths, if other mothers feared their husbands, if other daddies invaded their daughters' bedrooms at night. Despite the darkness that threatened to consume her, Jessica found solace in music—a refuge where her voice could break free from the chains of manipulation and reclaim its truth. As she resurfaced with her debut solo album, "Brand New Day," Jessica embraced her voice with a newfound sense of purpose and passion. Each note became a declaration of independence, each melody a testament to the strength found in vulnerability. Join us as we delve deeper into Jessica's story, exploring the themes of survival, empowerment, the transformative power of art, the impact of gaslighting on her journey and the resilience that led her to reclaim her voice. 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.  

A QUICK WARNING: This episode contains discussions of traumatic events, violence, child abuse, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts, anxiety, depression, and graphic language. Listener discretion is advised. Welcome to the Gaslight Effect Podcast, where we explore stories of courage, healing, and transformation. On this episode, Dr. Robin Stern has the privilege of speaking with Lucas Mack, a visionary leader who guides men on a pilgrimage of self-discovery and healing. Lucas Mack's retreats offer a sacred space for men to embark on a journey inward—a journey to slay the pain of their past and reclaim their freedom. Surrounded by fellow seekers, participants confront their inner dragons, speak their truth, and embark on a path of healing that transcends the confines of their past traumas. And now, Lucas has released his latest eBook, "Healing Our Soul to Find Our Light," a profound guide for those seeking to break free from the shadows of their past and step into the light of their true selves. Lucas Mack's work is deeply rooted in his own journey of overcoming gaslighting and reclaiming his truth. Once a million-dollar business owner with a painful secret, Lucas is now liberated and changing lives as a coach, speaker, and healing catalyst. If you met Lucas, you'd never know that he's a survivor of pretty horrific childhood abuse and trauma. On the outside, he appeared to have it all—a supportive wife, adorable children, a successful track record, an outgoing personality, the dream house, the big smile. But beneath the surface of that perfect picture, Lucas was severely depressed, anxious, and, at one point, suicidal. It wasn’t until 2016 that Lucas understood why. A conversation with his abuser triggered a flood of traumatic memories from his childhood, forcing him to confront his past and seek healing. Through therapy, medication, and ultimately, an emotional intelligence seminar where he bravely shared his deepest truth with others, Lucas found the courage to confront his demons head-on. Join Robin as she delves into Lucas Mack's remarkable journey of transformation and resilience, shedding light on the insidious nature of gaslighting and the power of reclaiming one's truth. Lucas's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of courage, compassion, and confronting 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.

IS social media toxic for women and girls?  On this episode, Dr. Kara Alaimo, author of "Over the Influence: Why Social Media is Toxic for Women and Girls - And How We Can Take It Back," hashes it out with Dr. Robin Stern. Kara is a communication professor at Fairleigh Dickinson, where she created the university’s programs in social media, and has been writing for CNN Opinion about the social impact of social media and issues affecting women and girls since 2016. Kara's latest release, "Over the Influence: Why Social Media is Toxic for Women and Girls - And How We Can Take It Back," is a timely and essential exploration of the impact of social media on women and girls, and highlights the need for meanigful conversations about gaslighting's pervasive influence in the digital age. In exploring her new book release, Robin and Kara delve deep into the multifaceted ways social media shapes women's lives, from relationships and parenting to mental well-being. Dr. Alaimo illuminates how these platforms often perpetuate sexism and misogyny, targeting women with disparities in followership, fake news, and harmful content. Despite these challenges, Kara empowers women with practical strategies to navigate the digital landscape. From managing daughters' social media usage to leveraging platforms for career advancement, Kara equips us with tools to reclaim control and protect ourselves from online threats. "Over the Influence" serves as a rallying cry for women to challenge sexism, advocate for change, and foster inclusivity in the digital sphere. Join us as we embark on a transformative journey with Kara Alaimo, unraveling the complexities of social media and reclaiming our power in the digital age. You can read the full transcript of this episode and listen to other episodes, at robinstern.com, and please leave a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast!  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 dives into the transformative journey of Emily Paulson - a beacon of courage, resilience, and authenticity in the realm of wellness and empowerment. Emily Paulson's remarkable journey, chronicled in her books "Highlight Real: Finding Honesty & Recovery Beyond the Filtered Life" and "Hey, Hun: Sales, Sisterhood, Supremacy, and the Other Lies Behind Multilevel Marketing," offers profound insights into the complexities of addiction recovery, motherhood, and the insidious nature of gaslighting. In discussing her book "Highlight Real" with Robin, Emily talks about fearlessly confronting the shadows of addiction and gaslighting, sharing her personal odyssey of overcoming alcohol addiction and embracing sobriety. Through raw honesty and vulnerability, she shines a light on the manipulative tactics that seek to distort our reality and erode our sense of self-worth. But Emily's exploration extends beyond addiction recovery. She also discusses with Robin her reason for writing her book "Hey, Hun," in which she exposes the hidden truths behind the glossy facade of multilevel marketing schemes, unraveling the gaslighting tactics that prey on vulnerability and perpetuate harmful ideologies. Her incisive analysis challenges conventional narratives, prompting readers and listeners to question the pervasive 'Hey, Hun' messages flooding our inboxes. Moreover, Emily is the driving force behind the "Sober Mom Squad" - a sanctuary where motherhood intersects with sobriety, and connections flourish. This Squad, comprised of moms navigating the delicate balance of motherhood and sobriety, provides a lifeline of understanding and support. Through shared stories and unwavering solidarity, the Sober Mom Squad creates pockets of community in the midst of solitude. Join Robin and Emily as they explore the transformative power of vulnerability, resilience, and connection. Through her courageous journey, Emily invites us to reclaim our truth, embrace our imperfections, and walk boldly along the path to self-discovery and empowerment. You can read the full transcript of this episode and listen to other episodes, at robinstern.com, and please leave a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast!  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 has a conversation with Dr. Craig Dowden, a renowned psychologist, executive coach, and author who specializes in unraveling the complexities of gaslighting and its impact on individuals and organizations. For over 25 years, Craig has been fascinated by the links between positive psychology and the practice of leadership excellence, so much so that he pursued his PhD in Psychology and Business. His personal mission is to bridge the gap between what science knows and what leaders do. Craig is passionate about teaching and coaching. Previously, he was a Professor at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada where he was twice nominated for the Capital Educators Award. Today, he serves as an executive coach to leaders in the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors while supporting EMBA and AMBA students at the Richard Ivey School of Business. Dr. Craig Dowden brings a wealth of expertise to our conversation, drawing from his extensive research and clinical experience in psychology and leadership development. As the author of insightful books like "Do Good to Lead Well: The Science and Practice of Positive Leadership" and "A Time To Lead", Craig sheds light on the intersection of leadership, emotional intelligence, and organizational effectiveness. Join us as we dive deep into the nuances of gaslighting, unpacking its psychological mechanisms and offering empowering insights for reclaiming personal agency and fostering healthier relationships.  Link to Craig's Podcast - Do Good To Lead Well 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 engages in a candid conversation with Tracey O'Connell MD, integrative health coach and seasoned medical professional, as they unravel the complexities of gaslighting within the healthcare industry. Having spent decades navigating the intricate web of medical practice, Tracey opens up about the often unspoken reality of gaslighting experienced by health professionals themselves. From subtle dismissals by peers to the pressure from superiors to prioritize profitability over patient well-being, she shines a light on the pervasive nature of gaslighting within the medical community. Drawing from her diverse background in conventional medicine and holistic health practices, Tracey shares personal anecdotes and meaningful insights into the detrimental effects of gaslighting on healthcare practitioners. She explores the underlying power dynamics and systemic pressures that contribute to a culture of silence and conformity within medical institutions. But amidst the challenges, Tracey offers hope. She provides practical strategies and tools for healthcare professionals to reclaim their voice, and integrity in their practice.  Tracey invites us to envision a future where empathy, transparency, and mutual respect reign supreme. It's a call to action for all stakeholders to come together and co-create a healthcare environment that nurtures the well-being of both patients and providers alike. 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 dives into the world of emotional intelligence and gaslighting with psychologist and acclaimed author, Daniel Goleman. Daniel Goleman has left an indelible mark in psychology with his groundbreaking work on emotional intelligence. As an accomplished author, his insights have not only enriched our understanding of the human psyche. Daniel's work has also paved the way for transformative conversations that are foundational for transforming lives - from personal to professional.  Many may know Daniel as the Father of Emotional Intelligence, as his 1995 book Emotional Intelligence served to launch the field.    Daniel's new book, Optimal reveals practical methods for using our inner resources to more readily enter an optimal state of high performance and satisfaction while avoiding burnout. During their conversation, Robin and Daniel focus on the pressing topic of gaslighting, a subtle  form of psychological manipulation. They unravel the layers of gaslighting, delving into its tactics, consequences, and the pivotal role emotional intelligence plays in recognizing and countering this destructive behavior. As an author who has explored the depths of human emotions, Daniel Goleman brings a unique perspective to the discussion that goes beyond the surface, exploring the nuances of gaslighting and its impact on our well-being.  You can read the full transcript of this episode and listen to other episodes, at robinstern.com, and please leave a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast!  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 interviews Hannah Husain, an eighteen year old student researching gaslighting interactions in relationships - particularly in teenagers. Hannah's first encounter with gaslighting occured when her friend had wanted to go to a concert, and was unintentionally gaslighted by her mom into not going.  Robin and Hannah discuss how, even if parents are not intentionally meaning to gaslight, the effect on their children can be long lasting.  Robin points out how in some cases wanting someone to feel better by having them believe your reality rather than their own, perpetuates a feeling that others know better than them, thus undermining that person's confidence.  Hannah and Robin talk about how social media can influence decisions like what you should eat, and how you should exercise. It is important to have relationships and sources of information offline to keep you grounded. They also examine the role of influencers on social media and the importance of the words these influencers use on their social media posts - and how these words can lead to unintentional (or not) gaslighting.  Developing strong friendships and family relationships will help affirm that you can trust your own thoughts and feelings, and validate your reality.  To read the full transcript of this episode and to hear other episodes, head over to robinstern.com, and be sure to leave a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast!  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 shares a conversation with Dr. Arghavan Salles that is both crucial and empowering. Dr. Salles wears many hats—she's a skilled surgeon, a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, and an expert in confronting gaslighting in medicine. Dr. Arghavan Salles gained global attention not just for her expertise but for her remarkable courage and resilience during the spring of 2020. As the COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in New York City, Dr. Salles, based in California, felt the call to action. Using her vacation time, she traveled to the epicenter of the crisis, joining the frontlines in the intensive care unit. That experience was transformative. Dr. Salles found herself facing a relentless adversary, treating patients in conditions she had never encountered before. The challenges were unprecedented—overwhelmed healthcare systems, scarce personal protective equipment, and healthcare professionals redeployed to specialties outside their expertise. Yet, even in the midst of this crisis, Dr. Salles chose to speak up, sharing her experiences on social media, in national outlets, and on television. Robin and Arghavan also discuss the often-overlooked issue of gaslighting in the medical profession. Dr. Salles brings her expertise to the forefront as they explore the personal impact gaslighting has had on Dr. Salles' own career as well as other individuals within the medical field and explores strategies to recognize and combat this pervasive issue. Join us as we delve into a conversation that not only exposes the challenges faced by healthcare professionals on the frontlines of a global pandemic but also addresses the importance of fostering a culture of inclusivity, respect, and open communication within the medical community. You can read the full transcript of this episode and listen to other episodes, at robinstern.com, and please leave a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast!  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 Dakota Adams, son of Stewart Rhodes, the founder and leader of the Oath Keepers organization. Dakota opens up about a life that was not only entangled with the controversial Oath Keepers but also shadowed by the dark clouds of gaslighting and abuse. Gaslighting, a form of psychological manipulation that seeks to make victims doubt their reality, is a theme woven into the fabric of Dakota's narrative. He recounts the harrowing escape from an environment marked by violence and chaos, where he and his siblings' perceptions were constantly manipulated. Dakota reveals the intricate layers of his father's personality, from the early days of criticism against political figures to a surprising evolution that ultimately led to Stewart Rhodes' involvement in the infamous events at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. But it's not just a story of political activism; it's a story of survival. Dakota shares the devastating effects of gaslighting on a family, detailing the struggles of breaking free from a cycle of manipulation, fear, and isolation. Join Robin and Dakota as they unravel the complexities of Dakota's life, a life shaped by an organization founded on principles that devolved into chaos. This episode will take you beyond the headlines, providing a closer look at the impact of gaslighting on individuals, families, and communities. You can read the full transcript of this episode and listen to other episodes over at robinstern.com, and please leave a rating and review wherever you listen to this podcast!  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.