The Narcissism Decoder Podcast

The Narcissism Decoder is a podcast that takes a comprehensive look at various facets of narcissism. The goal is to provide stellar educational content and clinical examples on mental health issues related to narcissistic personality disorder. This podcast focuses on specific aspects of narcissism, including its origins and everyday manifestations. In every episode, different psychoanalytic frameworks are explored as we unravel the complexities that lie beneath the surface of this label. I am on a mission to share my knowledge to help you gain profound insights into narcissism, navigate its complexities, and foster personal growth and understanding. If you listen to each episode, you will enhance your understanding of this complex structure.

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Cover image from Murray Updated with my name only

Please tune in for a blend of compassionate insights, expert guidance, and compelling narratives that will reshape your perspective on narcissism.

Read what our listeners are saying

"This shift in clarity is in no small part thanks to your enlightening education, which you so graciously put out into the world."

"The main point I'm trying to get across is my deep gratefulness to you for your psychoanalytic teachings which have FINALLY brought some relief and SANITY for me!"

"…. how much RELIEF your podcasts and YouTube videos are bringing me. THANK YOU! Thank you! Thank you!"

"…..you are singular among podcasts, in that you are compassionate, curious and not only looking to help and heal those who identify as victims but those who identify as narcissists."

"I really just wanted to let you know how much impact you have and the precious gift of relief and sanity you have given to me, which was elusive despite the 4-5 years work I've put in prior."

"I am just so thankful for your podcast, that I found while continuing my search on healing from narcissism..."

"I am so very grateful for your recent videos on youtube- the information and insight you give is fascinating and transformative..."

"Listening to your podcasts has helped me to understand some problems within ME and my own personality. For example, I was listening to your recent episode on anger, hatred, and rage when I realized that I myself am plagued with symptoms of hate and rage. For some reason I'm able to take your approach and be open-minded about applying the concepts to my own behaviors that match your descriptions as well as applying them to what I see in my husband's."

"You're being so helpful to me; thank you! I took your questions and went back through my journal & wrote out the answers to your questions pertaining to specific conflicts, and that is helping me …."

"Dr. Mazzella, you are a rare gem of a psychotherapist. You are one of very few authentic professionals on YouTube who isn't afraid to tell it like it is ..."

"Your balanced perspectives are exactly what people need to hear, so they can open their minds and challenge their thoughts, strong beliefs, perspectives, and actions."

"Your content is so valuable to me and others. I've shared your YT channel to 2 friends so far that I think would benefit. …Honestly, I think everyone could benefit from your extensive knowledge on these issues!"

"....I hate to imagine where I would be emotionally or even physically without the knowledge and insight that I now have about my partner. And that is thanks to the information I have learned from your podcasts .. I found you because I was not satisfied or convinced with most of the information out there on the internet as far as navigating difficult relationships...."

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Have You Ever Felt the Impact of Emptiness

Is the Narcissist an Empty Shell? Understanding Emptiness and Procrastination | Epi 103

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the psychic world of narcissistic emptiness — why everyday tasks can feel overwhelming, how withdrawal serves as a protective defense, and why shutting down can feel safer than engaging. Tune in to discover how small moments of engagement can be fostered to help shift a life overshadowed by withdrawal toward meaningful connection and authentic presence

Healing Narcissism What If They See I'm Not Enough Part 5

Healing Narcissism: What If They See I'm Not Enough? (5) | EPI 102

In this episode we dive into one of the most hidden struggles of healing from narcissism: why success doesn’t always feel like success. What if every new achievement, every step forward, only brings dread instead of relief? Together, we explore the deeper truth behind this paradox—the way grandiose fantasies once acted as armor against unbearable shame, fear of exposure, and early wounds of not being “enough.” Through a powerful clinical example, we uncover the heart of the narcissistic bind: the longing to be truly seen, and the terror of being exposed. This conversation gets to the core of what it really means to heal—not by chasing perfection, but by learning to live with vulnerability, complexity, and authentic selfhood.

How to Work With a Narcissist – Without Losing Yourself- Part 2 | Epi 101

In Part 2 of this conversation, we move from identifying narcissistic traits in a boss to navigating the complex relationship without losing yourself. Merry Brown raises the question so many people are afraid to ask: How do I get my narcissistic boss to meet expectations without abandoning my own boundaries and sanity? We explore the importance of mental differentiation and I unpack how narcissistic leaders often draw others into subtle “relational enactments.” If you’ve ever felt pulled in, worn down, or confused by a leader who leaves you doubting yourself, this episode offers clarity—and a way through.

Sneak Peak into Office Hours- Is My Partner a Narcissist? | Epi 100!

Is My Partner a Narcissist? When You’re Blamed, Erased, or Treated Like the Enemy In this special 100th episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on a moment from one of my new Office Hours sessions — a space where listeners bring real-life stories of complex, often painful relationship dynamics. You’ll hear a raw example from someone questioning whether their spouse is narcissistic, and I’ll walk you through my psychodynamic take: not only how to recognize the patterns at play, but also why people — sometimes without even realizing it — slip into dismissive or emotionally abusive behavior. Together, we’ll explore the enactments and defense mechanisms that fuel these destructive cycles, offering clarity, compassion, and a deeper understanding for anyone navigating the emotional confusion of a narcissistic relationship.

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 hard to confront. This is part 1 of a larger conversation—but already, we’re peeling back layers that many people experience but don’t have the words for.

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