What was your biggest Takeaway from this Episode! I would Love to hear from you!

From People Pleaser to Empowered Woman: Wendy’s Story of Healing & Growth
Series: Empowered & Unfiltered (Part 2 of 3)
Guest: Wendy Adamson | Luxury Portrait Photographer & Empowerment Advocate

Episode Description:
What happens when a daughter finally says, “I won’t sacrifice myself for your love anymore”?

In this raw and powerful conversation, Wendy Adamson opens up about growing up under the control of a narcissistic mother—and what it took to finally break free. From being groomed to take over a family foundation to being emotionally cut off and financially abandoned, Wendy’s story is one of reclamation, creativity, and courage.

We explore the cost of generational people-pleasing, how trauma warps identity, and the deep healing required to live life on your own terms. Today, Wendy empowers women 45+ to see their true beauty through luxury portraiture—and helps them reconnect with their authentic selves.

✨ Topics we explore:

• What it’s like growing up with a narcissistic parent
• Financial control, golden handcuffs & emotional manipulation
• Reclaiming identity after decades of people-pleasing
• Healing through creativity, portraiture, and self-worth
• Inner child work, boundaries, and becoming your own nurturer

🛑 If you've ever felt trapped by guilt, stuck in silence, or unsure who you are without others’ approval—this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen to Part 1 with Wendy’s husband, therapist Shane Adamson, and stay tuned for Part 3 as they return together to share their healing journey as a couple.

🌿 Ready to take the first step from people pleaser to empowered?
Join my free community + sign up to be notified about my next live masterclass:
👉 5 Days to Start Saying No: The First Step from People Pleaser to Empowered
https://www.anitasandoval.com/masterclass

🔗 Connect with Wendy:
Website: https://www.wendyadamsonportrait.com
Instagram: @wendyadamsonphotography

📌 Binge-worthy episodes to listen before or after this one:

• People Pleasing & Appeasing – Part 1: Why We Do It
• Setting Loving Limits Without Guilt – Part 3
• Unmasking Manipulators & Becoming a Woman Empowered
• Breaking Free from People Pleasing During the Holidays
• The 12 Steps to Reclaim Your Power and Stop People Pleasing

📲 Follow, subscribe, and share this episode if it speaks to your heart—and remember:

You were never meant to be their puppet. You were meant to shine. 💫

Website: www.anitasandoval.com

Instagram: anita_sandoval

Linkdin:

Empowered & Unfiltered: A 3-Part Series on Healing, Empowerment, and Real Connection
Guest: Shane Adamson, LCSW, CSAT, CCPS

What happens when a people pleaser finally decides she’s worthy of more?

In this honest and unfiltered conversation, I’m joined by therapist and relationship trauma specialist Shane Adamson, LCSW, , CSAT, CCPS to explore what really lies beneath the urge to overgive, over-accommodate, and lose yourself in relationships that never loved you back.

Together, we peel back the layers of people pleasing as a trauma response, the invisible weight of betrayal, and the impact of emotional neglect that keeps women stuck in cycles of unworthiness. Shane brings clinical insight and deep compassion to the conversation—and even shares his own healing journey and how it shaped his work with couples and betrayed partners.

This is the first episode in a powerful 3-part series where we explore what it means to come home to yourself after years of giving yourself away.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why people pleasers are drawn to emotionally unavailable or narcissistic partners
• The signs of betrayal trauma and how it hijacks your nervous system
• What “duty sex” reveals about emotional disconnection
• How guilt, family roles, and cultural expectations keep women stuck
• What the first signs of healing really look like—and how to get there

🛑 If you've ever asked, “Why do I always lose myself in love?”—this episode is for you.

🎧 Connect with Shane Adamson:
🌐 Website: cmfcdallas.com
📧 Email: shaneadamsonlcsw@gmail.com
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shaneadamson
📸 Instagram: @shaneadamson
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/shane.adamson
▶️ YouTube: @SAdamsonLCSW

🎧 Binge-worthy episodes to listen before or after this one:
If you're new here, or want to dive deeper into people pleasing and self-worth, listen to these must-hear episodes:

• People Pleasing & Appeasing Part 1 – Why we do it and how it starts
• How to Stop Yourself from the Quick Reflex of Pleasing & Appeasing – Part 2
• How to Set Loving Limits Instead of People Pleasing – Part 3
• Unmasking Manipulators and Becoming a Woman Empowered
• Breaking Free from People Pleasing During the Holidays
• The 12 Steps to Reclaim Your Power and Stop People Pleasing

📌 Coming next in Part 2:
Wendy Adamson joins us to share her story of breaking generational cycles of narcissistic abuse, rediscovering her voice, and launching the Ageless & Empowered portrait campaign to celebrate women reclaiming their power at every age.

🌿 Ready to take the first step from people pleaser to empowered?
Join the free Women Empowered community + sign up for my upcoming live masterclass:
👉 “5 Days to Start Saying No: The First Step from People Pleaser to Empowered”
🎧 Takeaways: People pleasing isn’t your personality—it’s a survival strategy.

In this episode of Empowering Women in Conversations, we walk through a powerful 12-step framework designed specifically for people pleasers who are ready to stop the cycle and start showing up for themselves—without guilt or apology.

You’ll learn how to:
🌿 Identify the roots of your people-pleasing behavior
🛑 Set boundaries without fear of rejection
💬 Communicate your needs clearly and assertively
💖 Prioritize self-care and self-respect
🌟 Replace emotional burnout with empowerment and authenticity

Each step includes simple challenges and small wins to help you take action and begin healing from within.

✨ If you’re ready to stop shrinking yourself for the comfort of others and start honoring your worth, this episode is your roadmap.

💬 Mentioned in this episode:

• How to join the Empower Her Pathways online community
• What to expect from each step of the healing process
• A reminder: You’re not alone, and change is possible

Disclaimer: By joining our online community, you agree to be added to our email list for support, resources, and updates on future offerings.

🎧 Hit play, subscribe, and let’s walk this journey together.

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🚨 Are you tired of feeling stuck in the cycle of people-pleasing, overthinking, and relationship anxiety? You're not alone. Many women struggle with breaking free from toxic patterns that keep them trapped in self-doubt and emotional exhaustion.

In this powerful episode of Empowering Women in Conversations, I sit down with Patrick Martin, LCSW, to dive deep into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies that can help you reclaim your confidence, set boundaries, and step into your authentic power.

🔍 In this episode, we cover:
✅ The hidden reasons why people-pleasers struggle in relationships
✅ How CBT helps rewire negative thought patterns and ease anxiety
✅ Practical tools to stop overthinking and self-sabotage
✅ The secret to setting boundaries without guilt or fear
✅ How to shift from reactive to empowered communication

If you've ever felt like you're carrying the emotional weight of your relationships, this episode is for you. Learn how to break free and start living life on your terms. 💪✨

🎧 Tune in now and take the first step toward empowerment!

🔗 Join the 5-Day Relief Challenge!

💖 Struggling with stress, overwhelm, or constant anxiety? Take my FREE 5-Day Relief Challenge and learn simple, science-backed techniques to calm your mind, reset your nervous system, and take control of your emotions. Each day, you’ll get a guided exercise to help you build emotional resilience and find relief—fast!

📩 Sign up now and start your journey to relief today!

→🔗 Join the 5-Day Relief Challenge!

Connect with Patrick Martin, LCSW

🌐 Website: The Mental Health Toolbox
📷 Instagram: @mentalhealthtoolbox
📘 Facebook: The Mental Health Toolbox
🐦 Twitter: @PMartinLCSW
💼 LinkedIn: Patrick Martin, LCSW
🎙️ Podcast: The Mental Health Toolbox

📢 Connect with Us!

🌐 Website: www.anitasandoval.com
📷 Instagram: @anita_sandoval
🐦 Twitter: Anita Sandoval@PACCTX
💼 LinkedIn: @Anita Sandoval

📺 YouTube: Empowering Women In Conversations

• If you enjoyed this episode feel free to listen in to our previous episode:

Breaking Free: Unmasking Narcissistic Abuse and Empowering the People Pleaser Within

And remember to subscribe so that you don't have to miss another episode.

The holiday season is here, and while it’s a time for joy and celebration, it can also be overwhelming—especially for women who struggle with people-pleasing. In this episode of Empowering Women in Conversations, Anita Sandoval is joined by Jessica Hope Murph, LMFT, to explore why the holidays are particularly challenging for people pleasers and how to reclaim peace, joy, and authenticity during this time.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Why the Holidays Bring Stress for People Pleasers:
  Jessica explains how family programming, perfectionism, and cultural expectations contribute to holiday stress.
• Core Characteristics of People Pleasers:
  Understanding the patterns that lead women to prioritize others' needs and struggle with self-worth.
• Steps to Shift Away from People-Pleasing:
  Practical tips for starting small, such as treating yourself with care and setting boundaries.
• The Power of Assertive Communication:
  Examples of passive, aggressive, and assertive communication styles, and phrases to use in challenging situations.
• The Importance of Peer Support:
  How surrounding yourself with the right people can help you maintain boundaries and build resilience.

BONUS: Listen in to 6 quick survival tips will help you reclaim your worth, set boundaries, and truly enjoy the season. Reclaim Your Worth and Enjoy the Holidays

Memorable Quotes:

• “Stop trying to prove that you're enough and just be enough.” – Jessica Hope Murph, LMFT
• “When you treat yourself like the queen you are, you’re not just practicing self-care—you’re changing your core value to ‘I am enough.’” – Jessica Hope Murph, LMFT

Actionable Tips:

1. Start small with self-care: Take 10 minutes for yourself each morning or treat yourself to something you enjoy.
2. Practice assertive communication: Replace passive or aggressive styles with confident, respectful phrases.
3. Surround yourself with supportive people: Find peer groups or friends who uplift and empower you.

You can reach Jessica Hope Murph:

• practice: Beyond Boundaries Counseling RGV
• Couples Boot Camp: 4 Week Online Group Counseling For Couples
• Facebook: facebook.com/BBCRGV
• Youtube: Beyond Boundaries Counseling RGV
• Anita Sandoval’s 5-Day Relief Challenge:Unwind and Relax in 5 Days
  If you enjoyed this episode feel free to listen in to our previous episode:

Breaking Free: Unmasking Narcissistic Abuse and Empowering the People Pleaser Within

And remember to subscribe so that you don't have to miss another episode.
TikTok: anitasandoval_lpcs
Instagram: anita_sandoval
Twitter: Anita Sandoval@PACCTX
Linkdin: Anita Sandoval
Website:www.anitasandoval.com
Youtube: Empowering Women In Conversations

Episode Highlights:

• Understanding Narcissistic Abuse: Definition and insights into how narcissists use coercion, power, and control in relationships.
• The People Pleaser's Plight: Examining why people pleasers become prime targets for narcissistic individuals and how their natural tendencies can prolong toxic dynamics.
• The Mask of Narcissism: Discussing the initial charm and subsequent reveal of a narcissist's true nature, and the psychological impact on their partners.
• Signs and Patterns Overlooked: Identifying the early warning signs that people pleasers often miss, including the dangerous cycle of justification and self-sacrifice.
• Breaking the Cycle: Strategies for recognizing, addressing, and healing from narcissistic abuse, with an emphasis on self-awareness and boundary-setting.

Key Takeaways:

1. Narcissistic Abuse Beyond Physical Harm: Understanding that emotional and psychological manipulation is a form of abuse.
2. The Danger of Mirroring: Recognizing the early phases of a relationship with a narcissist can help prevent deeper entanglement.
3. Empowerment Through Knowledge: Providing listeners with the tools to identify and escape abusive situations.
4. Healing and Recovery: Highlighting the importance of support, therapy, and community in overcoming the effects of narcissistic abuse.

If you want to learn more you can connect with Sybil Cummin at:
Email: info@risingbeyondpc.com

If you've been looking for a supportive community of women going through the topics we cover, head over to our website to learn more about the Rising Beyond Community. - https://www.risingbeyondpc.com/
Rising Beyond Facebook
Rising Beyond LinkedIn
Rising Beyond Pinterest
Domestic Shelters.org

Follow us on our social media platforms for more resources, and join our community discussions to share your experiences and insights.
If you enjoyed this episode feel free to listen in to our previous episode:
Unmasking Manipulators and Becoming a Woman Empowered!
And remember to subscribe so that you don't have to miss another episode.
TikTok:
anitasandoval_lpcs
Instagram:
anita_sandoval
Twitter:
Anita Sandoval@PACCTX
Linkdin:
Anita Sandoval
Facebook:
Conversations That Work
Website:
www.anitasandoval.com
Youtube:
Empowering Women In Conversations

1. Personal Transformation: Kate Conwell's journey through infidelity in her marriage, 11 years ago, was an incredibly challenging and painful experience. However, it became a catalyst for personal growth and transformation, prompting her to reexamine her life and the kind of person she wanted to become.
2. The Power of Healing: Kate recognized that healing was necessary, and she decided to pursue it, both individually and with her husband. This journey of healing allowed them to eventually come back together and work on their marriage, which ultimately led to a stronger and more resilient relationship.
3. Creating a Safe Space: Kate's mission, with Journey Beyond Betrayal, is to provide a confidential and supportive environment where women can openly discuss their experiences, feel affirmed in their feelings, and gain a better understanding of what's normal in such situations. It's about ensuring that no one has to face this painful journey alone.
4. You're Not Alone: Kate understands that women who have experienced infidelity often feel isolated, misunderstood, and overwhelmed. She aims to be a guide for these women, offering a place where they can find understanding, support, and healing.

Start creating awareness on Unmasking Manipulators and Becoming a Woman Empowered!

Some Top Self-Defeating Thoughts of Women who lack Empowering Attributes which lead to being susceptible in unhealthy situations are:

• I am not good enough
• I am not confident enough
• I am not loveable or worthy enough

I will discuss the importance for people pleasers to know the characteristics of manipulators and on how it will allow you to build healthier relationships.

Join me as we expose the hidden strategies, tactics, and techniques employed by manipulators in different aspects of life, including personal relationships, workplaces, and even the digital realm

• This podcast aims to shed light on the various ways manipulators can exert control over us.

With a focus on understanding the psychology behind manipulation, we will uncover the underlying motives and intentions of manipulators. By interpreting their behaviors and recognizing the warning signs, you will gain invaluable insights to protect yourself from their influence.

But knowledge alone is not enough. This podcast is all about equipping you with the skills required to counter manipulation and reclaim your personal power. We will explore effective strategies, communication techniques, and self-empowerment practices that can help you break free from manipulator's grasp.

I will offer you a Quick Tip on:
The reasons on why Manipulators choose to exploit others and what it compensates for:

• Whether you have encountered manipulators in your personal relationships, faced manipulation in your workplace, or even experienced it within yourself:

Click Below for the Cheat Sheet:

Unmasking Manipulators and Becoming A Woman Empowered is your ultimate guide to understanding, unmasking, and ultimately empowering yourself against manipulative individuals


If you want to know if your present relationship is the right one
Finding Mr. Right and Getting Rid of Mr. Wrong

If you have not been able to identify how the Fear of Abandonment and the Pain of Rejection can affect your relationships then listen to the previous episode:
How to Overcome the Pain of Abandonment and Fear of Rejection

Want to start learning how to Stay True To your Boundaries in Relationships with Ease and Confidence:

Below I will give you the cheat sheet on how to do just that:
Stop Sacrificing your Boundaries to Avoid Abandonment

TikTok:
anitasandoval_lpcs
Instagram:
anita_sandoval
Twitter:
Anita Sandoval@PACCTX
Linkdin:
Anita Sandoval
Facebook:
Conversations That Work
Website:
www.anitasandoval.com