Why do empaths so often find themselves entangled with narcissists? And more importantly — how do you break free from that exhausting cycle without losing your empathy, kindness, or compassion?

In this episode of the Really Personal Podcast, Mary Ann Addis gets real about her own journey as an empath and the hard lessons she had to learn after repeatedly attracting narcissistic partners. From love-bombing to gaslighting, she breaks down the early signs of narcissistic behavior, the hidden traps empaths often overlook, and the practical tools you need to protect your energy.

You’ll walk away knowing:

• The difference between narcissistic traits and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
• Red flags to recognize in the early stages of relationships.
• Tangible phrases to use when someone gaslights you or dismisses your feelings.
• How to set boundaries that keep your empathy intact but guarded.
• Why healthy, mature partners want these conversations and respect your voice.
  
  

If you’ve ever felt drained, silenced, or “too much” in a relationship, this episode will give you hope, clarity, and strategies to step out of old patterns and into your worth.

✨ Get the full show notes HERE!

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Order the Life Journals & Self-Care Planners to get it in time for the holidays + gift-giving season! Can’t wait to see how this new daily habit blends into your life!

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Ever feel like life looks “good” on paper—job, relationships, routines—but inside it all feels flat? You’re not alone. In this episode of the Really Personal Podcast, we dig into why doing everything “right” can still leave you running on autopilot—and how the simple act of romanticizing the ordinary can completely elevate your life.

This isn’t about luxury or perfection. It’s about intention. From plating your food to creating bedtime rituals, you’ll learn practical ways to stop giving yourself scraps and start treating your everyday moments as sacred.

Because when you romanticize your life, you stop existing—and start living.

✨ Want book recommendations and a deeper dive into today’s episode? Head to Mary Ann Life for full shownotes and more.

Send us a text

Support the show

To see more, visit Mary Ann Life

Order the Life Journals & Self-Care Planners to get it in time for the holidays + gift-giving season! Can’t wait to see how this new daily habit blends into your life!

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Ever feel like you’re the one holding it all together—at work, at home, in your relationships—and yet you’re the most exhausted person in the room? That’s not weakness. That’s compassion fatigue, and it might be silently draining your joy, your energy, and even your sense of self.

In this episode of The Really Personal Podcast, Mary Ann Addis breaks down why good people get tired of being good people—and how to shift from over-functioning and guilt to boundaries, clarity, and peace. We’ll talk about the emotional labor of always being the “reliable one,” why empathy without limits becomes a trap, and the small but powerful changes you can make to stay soft without being stepped on.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why am I so damn tired when I’m just trying to do the right thing?”—this conversation is for you.

✨ Want to go deeper? Read the full shownotes and connect with Mary Ann on Instagram @mary.ann.life for more conversations on mindset, relationships, and living with purpose.

Tune in. Take a breath. And let’s get personal.

Takeaways

• Nearly three out of five adults feel emotionally drained.
• Compassion fatigue affects anyone who carries emotional weight without rest.
• Being kind shouldn't mean being depleted.
• Setting boundaries is essential for emotional well-being.
• Rest is a right, not a reward.
• You can be kind and still prioritize yourself.
• Understanding should be a bridge, not a trap.
• Every no to what drains you is a yes to what sustains you.
• You are not an emotional airbag for others.
• Goodness that costs you your joy is not true goodness.

Chapters
00:00 The Emotional Toll of Being Good
03:46 Understanding Compassion Fatigue
09:02 The Importance of Boundaries
14:56 Redefining Goodness and Self-Care
16:35 Practical Strategies for Emotional Well-Being
31:20 Conclusion: Embracing Your Worth

Send us a text

Support the show

To see more, visit Mary Ann Life

Order the Life Journals & Self-Care Planners to get it in time for the holidays + gift-giving season! Can’t wait to see how this new daily habit blends into your life!

INSTAGRAM
TIKTOK
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
PINTEREST
AMAZON