Debra Newell became nationally known when the LA Times and Deadline covered her volatile relationship with John Meehan, also known as Dirty John. Debra discusses how she met John, the list of past narcissistic/abusive relationships she's had and how her unawareness of red flags and love bombing made her a vulnerable target. Listen to part 1 of 2 episodes of Debra's story; and learn about the steps she took to get out of the relationship safely, while protecting her own family.

Host Information: 

Instagram: Dr Ramani's IG - @doctorramani

Facebook: Dr Ramani's FB - @doctorramani

Twitter: Dr Ramani's TW - @DoctorRamani 

YouTube: Dr. Ramani’s YT - DoctorRamani

Guest Information: 

Instagram: Debra Newell IG - @debraambrosenewell

Guest Bio:

Debra Newell is an interior designer based in Orange County, California. She’s the founder of Ambrosia Interior Design and is a self-made multimillionaire. As a little girl, she was always sick, so she’d spend her time drawing and designing houses. She grew up in a loving family; and although her previous marriages ended in divorce, she was close with her four children. She continues to build her interior design empire today; while spreading the word about domestic abuse and how to look out for red flags. She doesn’t believe in victim shaming; so she wrote a book about her experience with her narcissistic, abusive fifth husband, John Meehan. She and her daughter Terra, use their experience to share with those who may be going through the same struggles.

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This podcast should not be used as a substitute for medical or mental health advice. Individuals are advised to seek independent medical advice, counseling, and/or therapy from a health care professional with respect to any medical condition, mental health issue, or health inquiry, including matters discussed on this podcast.

Navigating Narcissism is produced by Red Table Talk Podcasts. EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Jada Pinkett-Smith, Fallon Jethroe, Ellen Rakieten, and Dr. Ramani Durvasula. PRODUCER: Matthew Jones, ASSOCIATE PRODUCER: Mara De La Rosa. EDITORS AND AUDIO MIXERS: Devin Donaghy. 

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. For anonymous, confidential help, 24/7, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or  1-800-787-3224 (TTY). If you are being abused by your partner, know there is nothing you have done or are doing to cause the abuse. It is solely the choice of the abuser to abuse. It may seem impossible to escape your abuser, change your circumstances, or find the help you need, but it is possible. You are not alone, please do not suffer in silence.

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