Your toxic ex may be gone, but a clinical psychologist says the damage does not leave with them. Two segments. One conversation that gets into the questions most people are afraid to ask.

What "Toxic" Actually Means and Whether You Are the Problem

"Toxic" is not a clinical label, but a clinical psychologist says it describes patterns that chip away at your emotional safety and self-worth. Boundary violations, manipulation, gaslighting, emotional volatility, controlling behaviour, and relentless criticism are the markers. And if every ex has been toxic, the common denominator is worth examining.

When the Toxic Ex Is Still in the Room

Co-parenting with a toxic ex requires being brief, factual, and emotion-free, because they will try to bait you. But the harder part is the internal residue: hypervigilance, eroded trust, and reactions that actually belong to a relationship you thought you left behind. Children caught between toxic co-parents pay an emotional cost, and a toxic parent will use them without hesitation.

Topics: toxic ex, toxic relationship signs, co-parenting toxic ex, gaslighting, emotional residue

GUEST: Dr. Laurie Betito | drlaurie.com

Originally aired on 2026-05-08

Your toxic ex may be gone, but a clinical psychologist says the damage does not leave with them. Two segments. One conversation that gets into the questions most people are afraid to ask.
What "Toxic" Actually Means and Whether You Are the Problem
"Toxic" is not a clinical label, but a clinical psychologist says it describes patterns that chip away at your emotional safety and self-worth. Boundary violations, manipulation, gaslighting, emotional volatility, controlling behaviour, and relentless criticism are the markers. And if every ex has been toxic, the common denominator is worth examining.
When the Toxic Ex Is Still in the Room
Co-parenting with a toxic ex requires being brief, factual, and emotion-free, because they will try to bait you. But the harder part is the internal residue: hypervigilance, eroded trust, and reactions that actually belong to a relationship you thought you left behind. Children caught between toxic co-parents pay an emotional cost, and a toxic parent will use them without hesitation.
Topics: toxic ex, toxic relationship signs, co-parenting toxic ex, gaslighting, emotional residue
GUEST: Dr. Laurie Betito | drlaurie.com
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-05-08

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.