You’ll Never Win With a Narcissist (According to Dr. Les Carter)

You’re never going to win with a narcissist—especially when it comes to a conflict In this episode, Dr. Les Carter, psychologist, best-selling author, and expert on narcissism and emotional health, reveals why narcissist escalate every conflict. We dive into how this pattern plays out in everyday disagreements, why it derails problem-solving, and what you can do to protect your own emotional peace when dealing with a narcissist. Learn: • Why conflicts escalate quickly • How narcissists use defensiveness and blame-shifting to avoid responsibility • What maturity really looks like • How to keep your composure so you don’t get pulled into reactive cycles Whether you’re navigating conflict with a partner, family member, or coworker, learn how to spot the early signs of dirty fighting and how to respond in a way that keeps you grounded and in control. PODCAST EXTRA EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Find it here: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenar... for the exclusive interview and weekly newsletter OR become a Super Thriver of this channel for immediate access to this and over 40 over exclusive premium interviews. MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST EXTRA INTERVIEW 🔹 Ever wish you could walk away from a heated argument without feeling guilty—or second-guessing yourself? In the exclusive Podcast Extra interview, Dr. Les Carter shares the best strategies for stepping out of circular or controlling arguments before they drain you. Learn how to recognize the exact moment a discussion goes off the rails, spot the tactics that keep you stuck, and drop the urge to “win” in favor of preserving your peace. Get immediate access to this extended interview—and start to protect your peace better. 👉 Join today: https://substack.com/@breakingfreenar... MORE ABOUT DR. CARTER Books: The Anger Trap: Free Yourself from the Frustrations that Sabotage Your Life: https://amzn.to/4fHDt6p The Anger Workbook: An Interactive Guide to Anger Management: https://amzn.to/4mmUDJm Imperative People - Those Who Must Be in Control: https://amzn.to/45Ai8ar ******************* Feeling stuck in a toxic or troubled relationship? Take my FREE “Toxic or Troubled?” survey to discover your relationship type and get instant access to a complete, private mini-course—educational overviews, reflective questions, grounding techniques, and new strategies tailored to your situation. ▶ Start here: https://kerrymcavoyphd.com/toxic-or-t... READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP? • First Steps to Leaving online course – A step-by-step plan to safely and confidently leave a toxic partner: https://kerrymcavoyphd.com/course • Toxic-Free Relationship Club – Weekly group coaching, monthly book reads, access to past webinars, and Dr. McAvoy’s full online course: https://kerrymcavoyphd.com/club/ • Group Programs– Healing Strong, Relationship Reset, and more: https://kerrymcavoyphd.com/ STAY CONNECTED & SUPPORTED • Weekly “Breaking Free from Narcissistic Abuse” Substack newsletter – Insights, stories, and tools for your healing journey: https://breakingfreenarcabuse.substac... • Follow Dr. McAvoy: YouTube: ‪@KerryMcAvoyPhD‬ Instagram: ‪@KerryMcAvoyPhD‬ Facebook: ‪@KerryMcAvoyPhD‬ • Email: [email protected] • Website: https://kerrymcavoyphd.com/breaking-f... READ MY STORY “LOVE YOU MORE: The Harrowing Tale of Lies, Sex Addiction, & Double Cross” Available now: https://amzn.to/3NVMBXO ABOUT DR. KERRY McAVOY Kerry Kerr McAvoy, Ph.D., is a psychologist, author, and expert on cultivating healthy relationships, deconstructing narcissism, and understanding complex trauma. A survivor herself, her memoir “Love You More” offers an uncensored glimpse into the dynamics of narcissistic abuse DISCLAIMER: All content, resources, and services provided through this business are for educational and informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional therapy, counseling, medical treatment, or legal advice. No client-therapist relationship is created by viewing or engaging with this content. If you are experiencing a crisis or mental health emergency, please call 911 (or your local emergency number) or seek immediate help from a licensed professional.. Chapter Titles: 00:00 – The Hidden Cost of Self-Protection 00:19 – Welcome Back + New Season Preview 01:16 – Introducing Fan Mail + Dr. Les Carter 03:05 – How Conflict Reveals Emotional Maturity 04:17 – Narcissism, Self-Protection & Dishonesty 07:01 – Projection & Defensive Patterns 08:11 – Realistic Pessimism in Relationships 09:01 – Toxic Optimism & Idealization 10:08 – Intuitives vs. Sensors in Conflict 13:02 – Handling Conflict That Turns Ugly 16:11 – Emotional Pain & Self-Awareness 25:56 – Time, Reciprocity, and Red Flags