Narcissism at Work: Denial, Deflection and the Narcissistic Boss – Part 1
In this episode, we crack open a subtle but deeply toxic dynamic many professionals encounter: the narcissistic boss or coworker who deflects blame, rewrites reality, and leaves you questioning your own judgment. I sit down with Merry Brown to explore what happens when someone has too little inner conflict but causes constant conflict with others. We explore how pathological denial operates in narcissistic personalities—what it protects against, how it shows up at work, and why it's so ...
3 Sep 25min
Healing Narcissism Revisited: The Most Downloaded Episode
We’re about to hit two huge milestones — Season 3 is just weeks away, and our 100th episode celebration is right around the corner! But before we launch into brand-new topics, fresh formats, and deeper dives into narcissism, I’m bringing back the most talked-about episode of the year. Healing Narcissism: If You Want to See Change — Start Here has sparked more downloads, shares, and “aha” moments than any other, and for good reason. It’s an unflinching look at what it really takes to create la...
27 Aug 32min
From ‘I’m a Piece of Sh..!’ to ‘I Hurt You and I Care’: Shame To Guilt
In this episode, Renee and I peel back the curtain on the intense emotional battle between shame and guilt. You’ll hear about how to feel guilt without collapsing into self-hatred. Using Frank’s story, we reveal the delicate work of helping someone hold onto guilt without spiraling into destructive shame. Learn why this subtle skill is the key to true healing and emotional integration. If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new p...
20 Aug 27min
Is That Really an Apology—Or Just a Way to Feel Better?
Is your apology really an apology—or just a way to ease your own shame? In this episode, Renee Swanson and I dive into the hidden emotions behind guilt, rage, and “false apologies” that keep us stuck. Discover why saying sorry isn’t always enough—and what it takes to break free from shame’s trap. If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information. Want to go deeper? Join me in O...
13 Aug 25min
Are You Too Hard on Yourself? Some Preliminary Thoughts on Guilt
Guilt is supposed to help us repair—but what happens when it turns into self-punishment? In this clip, Renee and I explore how guilt gets distorted, how it hides behind over-apologizing, withdrawal, or perfectionism—and how it can quietly undermine connection instead of restoring it. To listen to the full interview check out Renee's channel here: https://bleav.com/shows/the-covert-narcissism-podcast/episodes/guilt-vs-shame-the-emotional-crossroads-that-defines-healing/ If you are intere...
6 Aug 17min
Let’s Talk—Office Hours Starts this Tuesday!
Sign up here to join the conversation: Reserve your spot and be part of the first session: https://www.drmazzella.com/officehours If you are interested in a consultation or seeking virtual therapy services, Dr. Mazzella is accepting new patients. Please click here for more detailed information. Want to go deeper? Join me in Office Hours — an open space where we explore psychoanalytic ideas together, answer your questions, and connect theory to real life experiences. Reserve your spot ...
2 Aug 1min
When Connection Feels Dangerous: How Shame Makes You Disappear
What if the reason you shut down, disappear, or attack yourself… isn’t weakness, but shame? In this clip with Renee Swanson, we uncover how shame hides behind perfectionism, silence, and even grandiosity—and why naming it is the first step to healing. To listen to the full interview check out Renee's channel here: https://bleav.com/shows/the-covert-narcissism-podcast/episodes/shame-vs-self-the-invisible-wound-behind-narcissistic-traits/ If you are interested in a consultation or...
30 Juli 25min
I Know Why I Get Angry and Defensive—So Why Can’t I Stop?
In this episode, we look at the painful moment so many of us know too well: when you understand why you get angry, defensive, or shut down—and yet, you still do it. We examine this problem through the lens of one man’s story about a frustrating moment that spirals into rage and self-loathing. But understanding this isn’t the most important thing. We tackle the real question: what actually helps when knowing yourself isn’t enough? If you’ve ever found yourself caught in a loop—knowing better, ...
23 Juli 27min
