Holiday Strategies for Coping with Narcissistic Abuse

Welcome to the holiday kickoff episode of The D Shift: Redefining Divorce and Beyond! This week, your host Mardi Winder is joined by bestselling author, speaker, and empowerment coach Cheryl L. Wright for an honest conversation about one of the most overlooked but stressful times of the year for those navigating divorce or recovering from toxic relationships: the holiday season.

Drawing from her personal journey of overcoming narcissistic abuse, Cheryl sheds light on why the holidays can bring out the worst in narcissists and other toxic personalities. Together they explore the dynamics that make this time of year particularly challenging—whether it’s co-parenting with a difficult ex, attending family gatherings where emotional traps are set, or simply feeling isolated while everyone else appears joyful.

In this episode, you’ll learn to recognize the subtle red flags of manipulation and chaos that often flare up around holiday traditions and family events. Cheryl introduces her practical three-step approach, recognize, retreat, and resolve, to help listeners identify toxic patterns, set healthy boundaries, and intentionally create their own pockets of peace and joy, no matter the circumstances. They also discuss the power of volunteering and giving back as a way to reclaim your sense of purpose and community during this potentially triggering season.

Whether you’re newly divorced, dealing with ongoing toxicity, or simply seeking strategies to navigate the holidays with more strength and clarity, this episode is packed with compassionate guidance and actionable tips to help you through the holidays.

Getrude’s final message resonates: never regret your past, but use those experiences as stepping stones to growth and transformation.

About the Guest:

Cheryl L. Wright is a bestselling author, speaker, and empowerment coach who helps others recognize narcissistic abuse, break free from toxic relationships, and reclaim their identity. Through her book Swimming with Alligators and personal story of transformation, she inspires others to pivot from pain to purpose and choose healing, strength, and self-worth. She lives in Arizona with her partner and two daughters.

To connect with Cheryl:

Website: https://swimmingwithalligators.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swimmingwithalligators

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swimming_with_alligators/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clwright/

About the Host:

Mardi Winder is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition Coach, Certified Divorce Specialist (CDS®) and a Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas. She has worked with women in executive, entrepreneur, and leadership roles, navigating personal, life, and professional transitions. She is the founder of Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and host of Real Divorce Talks, a quarterly series designed to provide education and inspiration to women at all stages of divorce.

Are you interested in learning more about your divorce priorities? Take the quiz "The Divorce Stress Test".

Connect with Mardi on Social Media:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@divorcecoach4women

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