Mia Hanks on Escaping Narcissistic Abuse and Reclaiming Freedom

Conversations with Rich Bennett

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In this powerful episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, author Mia Hanks shares the deeply personal and emotional journey behind her memoir Bride-Made. After nearly three decades in a covertly abusive marriage, Mia opens up about the red flags she missed, the trauma she endured, and the strength it took to walk away. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the realities of narcissistic abuse and the path to healing.

Guest: Mia Hanks

Mia J. Hanks is the author of Bride-Made, a gripping memoir that chronicles her escape from a 29-year marriage riddled with covert narcissistic abuse. With no prior writing experience, Mia felt compelled to share her story to help others recognize the signs of emotional manipulation and reclaim their lives. Now an advocate for survivors, Mia continues to raise awareness about narcissistic personality disorder and emotional abuse.

Main Topics:

· Mia’s motivation behind writing Bride-Made

· The difference between overt and covert narcissism

· Red flags and warning signs of narcissistic abuse

· The psychological and physical toll of prolonged emotional abuse

· Challenges of leaving a narcissist and navigating divorce

· Support systems, resources, and

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Chapters

1. 10-Year Podcast Anniversary Intro (00:00:00)

2. Introducing Mia Hanks and her memoir Bride-Made (00:01:32)

3. Why Mia wrote the book and its therapeutic impact (00:03:12)

4. Pushing past fear and sharing her story (00:05:19)

5. Realizing she had to leave her marriage (00:06:39)

6. Narcissism as a diagnosable disorder (00:08:18)

7. Life after leaving and feeling freedom again (00:09:31)

8. No communication with ex and the slow exit strategy (00:10:57)

9. Discovering covert narcissism post-marriage (00:15:47)

10. Overt vs. covert narcissism explained (00:16:45)

11. Red flags and signs of emotional manipulation (00:21:26)

12. Impact on parenting and maintaining normalcy (00:24:37)

13. Experiences with therapy and therapist confrontation (00:25:43)

14. Online quizzes, research, and helpful podcasts (00:28:20)

15. Lack of in-person support groups (00:29:53)

16. Advice for those suspecting narcissistic abuse (00:30:55)

17. Letting go of self-blame and shifting mindset (00:32:30)

18. Why victims don’t “just leave” (00:32:49)

19. How friends and family can offer support (00:34:21)

20. Debunking myths about narcissistic abuse (00:35:30)

21. Importance of friendship in healing (00:36:32)

22. Strategic Valentine’s Day book release (00:37:37)

23. Marketing challenges due to anonymity (00:38:45)

24. How listeners can support and share the book (00:41:17)

25. Future writing projects and the path ahead (00:43:46)