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A single phone call flipped our week, our plans, and our priorities—and taught us how “having a will” can still leave a family drowning in decisions. We open the door to our real-time experience of sudden loss: caring for Dad, sorting thirty years of collectibles, and navigating the awkward surge of relatives who appear for stuff but not support. From stocking a pantry to turning down sheets so a walker can slide in, we trace the small acts that bring dignity back, then get practical about the paperwork that actually reduces stress.

We break down the essentials: medical and financial powers of attorney, living wills, and clear beneficiary designations for accounts, cars, and property. We explain how probate gets triggered, why transfer‑on‑death (TOD) and payable‑on‑death (POD) tools matter, and how a simple conversation about cremation, ashes, and sentimental items can save months of conflict. The legal steps are straightforward once you know them; the relief of fewer forms and faster access is priceless when your family just needs time to breathe.

Our focus also turns to safety and resilience. October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and we’re launching Dear Silence, You Lost—now we get the last word on Amazon, with proceeds funding scholarships for the Contagious Smile Academy. We share free survivor kits, Safe Home resources, and masterclasses you can download today, plus programs for caregivers, special needs families, and kids. Along the way we talk honestly about body image, confidence, and learning to ignore the stare that tries to shrink us. If you do one thing after listening, make a document, name a decision‑maker, or share a resource with someone who needs it. Subscribe, share this with a friend who’s procrastinating on their paperwork, and leave a review to help more people find help when they need it most.

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Have you ever been silenced for speaking your truth? Join us for an intimate conversation about breaking through barriers and finding your voice even when others try to quiet it.

Victoria reveals the surprising backlash to her evidence-based book "Dark Dark Who's There," including a cease and desist letter despite her careful steps to change names and redact identifying features. As the black sheep in a narcissistic family system, she shares how speaking truth often makes you "the dangerous one" they try to silence - a reality many of our listeners will sadly recognize.

The conversation takes an uplifting turn as Victoria announces her selection as one of 100 influential women to be featured in "Her Story," broadcasting to 127 countries. This raw, makeup-free telling of her journey overcoming abuse demonstrates that healing is possible at any stage with proper support. We also celebrate the upcoming release of "Dear Silence You Lost" on October 1st - a powerful compilation of survival stories from hundreds of people worldwide who've broken their silence about abuse.

Michael reads one particularly moving letter from the book, written by a son to his abusive father, illustrating how recognizing toxic patterns can break generational cycles. The letter writer's determination to never become like his father resonates deeply with anyone who's witnessed or experienced family violence.

We take a vulnerable detour as Victoria shares her recent surgical experience resulting in hearing loss, including the heartbreaking moment of hearing "I love you" in her right ear for the last time. Her frustrations with medical professionals who made light of her condition highlight the importance of compassionate healthcare and proper advocacy.

Whether you're healing from trauma, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking to understand the journey better, this episode offers both practical wisdom and emotional resonance. Visit our academy through thecontagioussmile.com to access trauma-informed courses, many available for free or minimal cost, designed to guide others through their healing journey.

What truth have you been afraid to speak? Perhaps today is the day to break your silence.

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What happens when the world suddenly goes silent on one side? Victoria's recent ear surgery has left her completely deaf in one ear, forcing her to navigate a new reality where simple interactions become profound challenges. In this raw and emotional episode, we take you through the journey of adaptation and resilience that follows a life-altering medical procedure.

The moment hits hardest at a store checkout when Victoria can't hear the cashier speaking to her deaf side. It's a stark reminder of what life will be like moving forward—a reality made more poignant by the memory of asking loved ones to speak "one more time in my right ear" before surgery. With a cochlear implant priced at $300,000 and not covered by insurance, Victoria faces permanent unilateral hearing loss with remarkable courage.

Despite facing significant health challenges, both hosts refuse to succumb to bitterness. "We have the right to be absolutely bitter and the nastiest of people. But we're not," Victoria explains. This philosophy extends to their work helping others heal from trauma through their academy and free courses—efforts that have earned them five global awards yet still attract criticism from those who seem determined to "rain on their parade."

The episode offers beautiful glimpses into their family life, from their daughter Faith's touching pre-surgery gifts to their service dogs' intuitive adaptation to Victoria's recovery needs. Even while managing pain and adaptation, Victoria maintains her unstoppable spirit—cleaning kitchens at 4 am and baking muffins without pain medication.

Join us for this intimate look at maintaining humanity, humor, and hope when life changes in an instant. And if our work resonates with you, consider supporting our mission to make healing accessible to all through the donation button at acontagioussmile.com. Even $5 helps us continue offering free resources to those who need them most.

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Three years after losing her limb, Victoria marks her "FU anniversary" with a raw, unfiltered conversation about survival, resilience, and finding your voice after trauma. This special edition podcast takes listeners on a deeply personal journey through narcissistic family dynamics and the challenging path of the family "black sheep."

Victoria shares exciting news about her new anthology "Dear Silence You Lost, We Get the Last Word" – a powerful collection of survivor stories from around the world. This international gathering of voices breaks the silence surrounding abuse in all its forms: emotional, physical, verbal, and sexual. With all proceeds funding healing scholarships, the project embodies Victoria's commitment to providing support without financial barriers.

The heart of this episode explores the psychological terrain familiar to many listeners – the impossible dynamics of narcissistic family relationships. Drawing from decades of therapy and her own painful experiences, Victoria articulates how narcissists systematically undermine and isolate the family truth-teller. She vulnerably shares her journey of surviving domestic violence that left her with over 100 surgeries, metal throughout her body, significant hearing loss, and ultimately, amputation.

Despite these challenges, Victoria transformed her trauma into purpose. Alongside her husband, she's created award-winning resources for survivors while building a family based on the unconditional love and support she never received growing up. Her memoirs "Who Kicked First?" and "Nard Nard Who's There?" document her experiences with evidence-based accounts, offering validation for others on similar journeys.

The episode closes with a powerful message for fellow black sheep and scapegoats everywhere: your worth isn't determined by those who can't accept responsibility for their actions. Though healing isn't easy, remembering your inherent value is the first step toward reclaiming your life after narcissistic abuse. If you've ever felt misunderstood, devalued, or silenced within your family, this conversation will resonate deeply and remind you that you're not alone.

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What would you do if you witnessed a violent attack in public? Would you step in to help, or freeze in the moment? This raw, unfiltered conversation begins with Michael and Victoria discussing a disturbing video of a random stabbing at Walmart, questioning why bystanders failed to intervene when they had the power to stop the threat.

The couple doesn't shy away from difficult topics as they share their perspectives on self-defense, situational awareness, and the Good Samaritan Law that protects those who step up in dangerous situations. Their passion for protecting others extends beyond physical safety into the emotional realm, where they've created an academy offering affordable healing resources for survivors of abuse.

Victoria opens up about her experiences with narcissistic family members, detailing the manipulation tactics like silent treatment and blame-shifting that defined these relationships. The painful authenticity in her voice resonates as she describes how narcissists refuse accountability and twist situations to make victims feel responsible for abuse. Michael's supportive presence highlights how healing relationships can develop even after experiencing profound betrayal from those who should have provided safety and love.

The conversation shifts to parenting concerns about today's screen-obsessed youth, the couple's shared joy in their strong family bonds, and Victoria's upcoming medical procedures resulting from past abuse. Their natural banter and occasional humor provide welcome relief from heavy topics while showcasing the genuine connection that defines their relationship and podcast.

Whether you're navigating complex family dynamics, recovering from abuse, or simply interested in authentic conversations about life's challenges, this episode offers validation, perspective, and hope. Subscribe now to join this supportive community where healing is prioritized and real talk is always on the menu.

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