THE TRAUMA BOND: The Dark Triad, abuse of power, and gaslighting

Why is it so hard to leave an abusive relationship? Why do survivors stay, even when the red flags are undeniable? The answer lies in one of the most powerful psychological traps—the trauma bond. Today, we’re diving deep into the dark triad—narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy—and how these personality traits drive manipulation, gaslighting, and coercive control. Abusers don’t just use physical violence; they weaponize charm, isolation, and intermittent reinforcement to keep victims emotionally tethered. And they don’t act alone—there’s an entire system of enablers ensuring their power remains intact. Lisa welcomes Dr. Nadine Macaluso, former model, therapist, and author of Run Like Hell: A Therapist’s Guide to Recognizing, Escaping, and Healing from Trauma Bonds. Known to many as “Dr. Nae,” she is the real-life inspiration behind Naomi Belfort’s character in The Wolf of Wall Street. After surviving an eight-year marriage to Jordan Belfort, marked by abuse, greed, and trauma, Dr. Nae turned her trauma into a mission—educating others on how to break free from toxic cycles and reclaim their power. In this episode, Lisa and Dr. Nae uncover the warning signs of trauma bonds, the psychological tricks abusers use to maintain control, and how survivors can break free. Survivors deserve more than just an escape—they deserve healing, empowerment, and the ability to write a new story on their own terms. This episode is about understanding, empowerment, and reclaiming your life. From Now On… don't self-abandon, don't self-sacrifice in the name of love. Just a heads up: This episode contains discussions of intimate partner violence, predatory behavior, and coercive control. Some may find it upsetting. We encourage you to take care of yourself. About Dr. Nadine Macaluso: Her journey of trauma and healing inspired her to return to school at age 39, where she earned her Master's in counseling and a Ph.D. in somatic psychotherapy. She further specialized with a two-year postdoctoral training in the Neuro-affective Relational Model (NARM). As a therapist, Dr. Macaluso combines her education and personal experiences to help others heal from trauma. Her practice focuses on assisting patients in connecting with their authentic selves, fostering confidence, resilience, and agency. Dr. Macaluso firmly believes in the potential for post-traumatic growth, instilling hope in her patients and guiding them to reach their potential in life and love. Follow Dr. Nadine Macaluso @therealdrnadine on Instagram, X and Youtube. @drnaelmft on TikTok and Facebook. To learn more about Dr. Nae’s work go to drnae.com. Join her SURTHRIVER Community here. Follow Lisa Phillips ⁠@iamlisaphillips⁠ on Instagram. From Now On is produced by LA PHILLIPS MEDIA. Listen and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Have a story to share with us? Email us at fromnowonpod@gmail.com. Join our movement and keep up to date on all things From Now On by following us @fromnowonpod on all socials. If today’s conversation resonated with you and you are seeking more support in your own healing journey, here are some resources below: If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, help is available. Call 800.656.HOPE (4673) If you or someone you know is being trafficked, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Text 233733 (befree). PAVE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit creating a world free from sexual violence and building communities to support survivors. Speak Out, Act, Reclaim (SOAR) is dedicated to providing a safe and empowering space for survivors of sex trafficking to reclaim their stories and stand up for themselves and each other.