Episode 475: Dr. Ramani Durvasula: How Narcissists Hijack Your Mind and Why We Keep Falling for Them

Listen to this episode from Habits and Hustle on Spotify. Think narcissism only affects insecure or naive people? Think again. In this episode of Habits and Hustle, I talk with Dr. Ramani Durvasula who explains how narcissists manipulate even the most self-aware, high-achieving individuals. We dive into why narcissistic relationships are so hard to leave, how gaslighting corrodes your self-trust, and the emotional price we pay for constantly managing toxic people. Whether it’s a partner, boss, parent, or friend, this episode is your guide to recognizing and protecting yourself from covert manipulation. Dr. Ramani is a licensed clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and the internet’s go-to expert on narcissistic abuse. Her work has helped millions decode toxic dynamics through her YouTube channel, books like “Don’t You Know Who I Am?”, and expert commentary on major media outlets. What We Discuss:  (03:22) Why narcissistic abuse happens to smart, strong people (08:40) The subtle signs of emotional manipulation (13:05) Why narcissists never play by the same rules (21:55) The unique pain of having a narcissistic parent (32:48) How to set boundaries when leaving isn’t an option (39:12) The myth of the “narcissist who will change” (49:20) Dr. Ramani’s tools for reclaiming your identity (56:44) Can narcissists ever truly love or feel regret? (01:01:15) Are you the narcissist? How to do a reality check (01:06:30) The healing path: therapy, no-contact, and radical clarity …and more! Thank you to our sponsors: Momentous: Shop this link and use code Jen for 20% off Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  TruNiagen: Head over to truniagen.com and use code HUSTLE20 to get $20 off any purchase over $100. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. Bio.me: Link to daily prebiotic fiber here, code Jennifer20 for 20% off.  David: Buy 4, get the 5th free at davidprotein.com/habitsandhustle. 99designs by Vista: 99designs.com/jen20  – click "Claim my discount" to get $20 off your first design contest.    Find more from Jen:  Website: https://www.jennifercohen.com/ Instagram: @therealjencohen   Books: https://www.jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://www.jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement Find more from Dr Ramani Durvasula: Website: https://doctor-ramani.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorramani/  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DoctorRamani