The Covert Narcissism Podcast

Walking on Eggshells: Why Even Simple Conversations Turn Toxic with a Covert Narcissist

Mar 2, 2025
Have you ever felt drained after a conversation with someone? This discussion dives into the challenges of engaging with covert narcissists, revealing how simple interactions can turn toxic. Learn about manipulative communication patterns that leave you questioning your self-worth. Tips for reclaiming your voice and setting boundaries are shared, alongside the importance of recognizing your feelings of discomfort. If you're struggling in a relationship that feels impossible, this conversation aims to validate your experience and offer support.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Struggling with Simple Conversations

  • Renee Swanson shares a painful experience of trying to have a simple conversation with her covert narcissist husband.
  • He responds with sighs, one-word answers, irritation, and dismissiveness, making connection feel impossible.
INSIGHT

How Covert Narcissists Control Talk

  • Covert narcissists control conversations subtly by shifting focus to themselves and twisting words.
  • They use silent treatment, dismissiveness, and gaslighting to undermine and emotionally drain their partners.
INSIGHT

Dynamic Causes Self-Censorship

  • The toxic dynamic makes you feel guarded and unsafe, causing you to self-censor to avoid conflict.
  • This self-censorship deepens emotional exhaustion and confusion about why you only struggle communicating with them.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app