In episode 189, I speak with wife, mother, and best-selling author, Dana S. Diaz. Dana is a living example of the power of words on life, and that the words we listen to will win. At the age of 48 now happily married for the last three years, Dana has dealt with 45 years of abuse, neglect, and narcissism. She was unwanted as a child and abused by her mother and step-father, she was married 25 years to a narcissist, and the words she kept hearing were, 'you are not worthy or loveable'. Dana made the courageous decision to change the narrative that was controlling her life and the result is inspiring. This is a wonderful conversation about how words will always win, so make sure you speak and listen to the right words.
Dana S. Diaz is a wife, mother, and author of the best-selling book GASPING FOR AIR: THE STRANGLEHOLD OF NARCISSISTIC ABUSE. Dana has had life-long experience with narcissistic abuse, beginning in childhood. Her education in journalism and psychology at DePaul University in Chicago gave her the ability to accurately verbalize and express how narcissistic abuse creates confusion and conflict within victims, so that she can help other victims know they are not alone and better understand their own circumstances.
Today, Dana is a proud voice for fellow victims who are unable, afraid, or ashamed to share their experiences. She strives to create awareness and understanding to ensure victims are given the support they need to first understand their situation and then begin the healing process. Her first book, chronicling her own abusive marriage that lasted nearly three decades, started as a journal that she hid under the couch cushion in the basement. Dana lives with her husband in Illinois and is in the process of publishing the prequel and sequel to GASPING FOR AIR.
It was the words that she was not enough that has shaped Dana's life for many years, but now, she has chosen to focus on different words, different associations and a different way of being. Now, living a life of joy, and impacting many lives, this is a conversation not to be missed
Find out more about Dana here.
My website is www.andrewjobling.com.au