This episode originally aired on September 9, 2025.
If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit www.thehotline.org
-----
What is a narcissist—really? How do they act? How do they trap you? And how do you begin to break free once you realize the truth?
In this episode of Bitch Is a Bad Word, therapist and narcissistic abuse expert Vanessa Reiser breaks it down: what narcissism looks like, why it’s so confusing at first, and how to spot the patterns before it's too late.
Vanessa’s knowledge isn’t just clinical—it’s personal. After surviving her own relationship with a narcissist, she committed her life to helping others recognize the red flags she once missed.
Whether you're asking:
“Am I dating a narcissist?”
“Why do I feel crazy in this relationship?”
“What is narcissistic abuse?”
“Why can’t I leave even though I’m unhappy?”
This episode is for you.
⚠️ Trigger Warning:
Includes personal stories and professional insight on narcissistic abuse, gaslighting, emotional manipulation, love bombing, and trauma bonding.
📞 If you or someone you know is in danger, call The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.
ABOUT Vanessa Reiser:
Instagram: Vanessa Reiser’s IG - @vanessareiserlcsw
Twitter: Vanessa Reiser’s TW - @vprockland
Website: https://tellatherapist.net/
Guest Bio:
Vanessa Reiser is a mother, entrepreneur, life coach, advocate, and a ground breaking psychotherapist specializing in narcissistic abuse using Therapist Self-Disclosure (TSD); a form of therapy where therapist statements are shared that reveal something personal about the therapist, when an opportunity to create validation exists. Vanessa is licensed in NY, NJ, MA & FL and made international headlines when she ran the entire state of New York in a wedding dress to raise awareness for narcissistic abuse in May 2021. Her days are spent supporting those traumatized by this insidious form of domestic violence.
---
JOIN the BIABW PATREON and DISCORD SERVER where we're building our Bestie community! On Discord, we've created a safe space where you can connect anonymously with others and share. And on Patreon, I \"spill the tea\" all week long as well as have all the episodes available ad-free! Join at patreon.com/BitchIsABadWord
STAY UPDATED & SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER:
https://www.caliber-studio.com/bitch-is-a-bad-word-with-lindsay#biabwsubscribe
Connect with Us:
📧 Email: biabw@caliber-studio.com
📱 Call or Text: (331) BITCHES
📸 Instagram: @bitchisabadwordpod
🎵 TikTok: @bitchisabadword
LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bitch-is-a-bad-word/id1780948251
- Spotify Podcasts: open.spotify.com/show/3frZ12xmxKo0lCa8eIGCDD
- Website: caliber-studio.com/bitchisabadword
","author_name":"Lindsay Abernathy | Domestic Violence Survivor"}