Special Guest Azadeh Atzberger

In this powerful episode, the second half of this interview with Dr. Damian, Sam and Azadeh who shares her transformative journey from addiction and abuse to becoming a resilient and confident individual. Azadeh recounts her battle with meth addiction and her tumultuous relationship with an abuser. She courageously took the first steps towards recovery by checking herself into a detox center, where she found solace in a supportive community. Her story highlights the importance of a strong, sober network and the unwavering presence of faith in her journey to sobriety.

Dr. N, a counselor with decades of experience, delves into the nuances of overcoming addiction and abuse. They discuss the crucial role of intentional, purpose-filled decisions in achieving lasting change. Azadeh emphasizes that while support systems are vital, the desire to change must come from within. She vividly describes her turning point—an act of violence by her boyfriend—that led her to realize the destructive path she was on.

The conversation shifts to the dynamics of abuse, focusing on the manipulative tactics used by abusers. Dr. N and Sam explore the insecurities and control issues that drive abusers to inflict harm. Azadeh offers practical advice for setting boundaries and creating a safe environment for oneself, especially when dealing with verbal and emotional abuse. She underscores the importance of finding support and maintaining mental clarity to resist an abuser's attempts to manipulate.

Azadeh also discusses the 'drama triangle' concept, which helps individuals recognize and break free from the victim-rescuer-perpetrator cycle in abusive relationships. She stresses the significance of non-reactivity to deprive abusers of the satisfaction they derive from causing distress.

The episode concludes with a conversation about recognizing and avoiding narcissistic relationships. Azadeh provides insightful tips on identifying red flags, such as the urgency and intensity often exhibited by narcissists early in relationships. Sam and Dr. N reflect on the nature of love, emphasizing that genuine love develops over time, unlike the infatuation often mistaken for love in the initial stages of a relationship.

Azadeh's journey from addiction and abuse to becoming a strong, confident individual serves as an inspiration for anyone struggling with similar challenges. Her wisdom and practical advice offer hope and guidance for those seeking to break free from the cycle of abuse and addiction.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of a supportive, sober community in overcoming addiction.
• Intentional and purposeful decisions are crucial for lasting change.
• Recognizing and setting boundaries to protect oneself from abuse.
• The 'drama triangle' concept as a tool for understanding and escaping abusive dynamics.
• Identifying red flags to avoid narcissistic relationships.
• Genuine love takes time to develop and is not based on immediate infatuation.

Listeners are encouraged to visit https://lifeisaclassroom.net/bwya/ to pre-order the book "Bloom Where You Are," reflect on their own lives, and consider reaching out for guidance or mentorship if they feel stuck.