EP7: Toxic Relationships: Gaslighting, Love Bombing & Taking Back Control

Toxic relationships come in many forms—family, friendships, workplaces, and romantic entanglements—but how do you recognize when you're stuck in one? In this episode of Pondering Pandaz, Jayden and Ryan dive deep into the dynamics between people pleasers and narcissists, exploring how power imbalances, emotional manipulation, and gaslighting play out in everyday life. 

From childhood conditioning to professional environments, they break down how toxic people manipulate, why people pleasers attract them, and how to set healthy boundaries. The discussion also takes a turn into Asian family dynamics, generational trauma, and cultural expectations, revealing how societal norms sometimes enable toxicity. 

If you've ever felt drained, controlled, or undervalued in a relationship—whether at home, at work, or in love—this episode will help you recognize the signs and take back your power. 

00:00 – Introduction: Why we need to talk about toxic relationships 
06:30 – People pleasers vs. narcissists – The dangerous cycle 
16:40 – Love bombing, gaslighting, and how toxic people take control 
29:30 – Family, culture, and generational trauma – Why we tolerate toxicity 
39:10 – Workplace manipulation – How to spot toxic leadership 
45:25 – Setting boundaries and breaking free – Taking back your power