About Lynn - Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Coach, Advocate for Gender Equality and Deconstructing Systems of Oppression

Current Work and Services
Lynn offers trauma-informed narcissistic abuse recovery coaching and her comprehensive Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Course through Forward Rising Academy, which she created to provide transformative education for survivors. This course, designed for survivors ready to move “From Confusion to Clarity,” provides practical tools for understanding trauma bonds, spotting red flags, and reclaiming authentic life.
The course covers the complete manipulation playbook from love bombing to gaslighting, the neurobiological impact of narcissistic abuse, and evidence-based strategies for healing and protection in future relationships. Lynn’s approach connects personal healing with systemic awareness, helping survivors understand both individual experiences and broader patterns of power and control.
While she is currently redesigning her one-on-one coaching program, Lynn continues to serve her community through Forward Rising Academy, her podcast, writing, and digital offerings, providing accessible guidance for survivors at all stages of their healing journey.
Lynn Nichols is a trauma-informed narcissistic abuse recovery coach, author, personal survivor, and passionate advocate for healing and empowerment. As the host of the Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Podcast (formerly Moving Forward with Hope – Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Podcast) and creator of the YouTube channel “Wake the Elephant,” Lynn has built a community spanning over 75 countries, providing validation, resources, and hope to survivors of narcissistic abuse.
Lynn’s journey began with her own experience as a family scapegoat, navigating the complex dynamics of narcissistic family systems and the profound challenges of healing from systematic emotional abuse. Her personal transformation from victim to survivor to thriver informs every aspect of her work, bringing authenticity and deep understanding to her mission of helping others break free from toxic relationships.
Published Works
Lynn is the author of several acclaimed books on narcissistic abuse recovery, including:
- Overcoming the Devastation of Narcissistic Abuse: How to Heal, Recover, and Take Your Life Back
- Master Manipulators: Discover Covert Tactics Narcissists Devise to Manipulate, Deceive, and Control
- 49 Powerhouse Affirmations: Rejuvenate Your Soul and Mind After a Destructive Relationship
Her writing combines personal insight with research-backed strategies, offering survivors practical tools for recognition, healing, and building authentic lives beyond abuse.
Mission and Impact
Through her platform, Lynn’s mission is threefold:
- VALIDATE – Validate victims (now survivors and overcomers!) of narcissistic abuse
- REBUILD – Provide resources and encouragement toward rebuilding lives to live amazing, fulfilling lives
- REVOLUTIONIZE – Facilitate revolutionary change to pursue dreams, visions, and intentional living
Lynn’s work extends beyond personal relationships to examine how narcissistic dynamics are woven into broader cultural systems, including exploring the intersection of narcissism with patriarchal structures, gender roles, and societal expectations.
Podcast and Media
The Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Podcast features over 100+ episodes of in-depth conversations about toxic relationships, family dynamics, and healing strategies. Lynn’s candid, thought-provoking approach tackles complex topics including:
- Scapegoat and golden child roles in family systems
- Going no contact and setting boundaries
- Covert manipulation tactics and gaslighting
- Emotional labor and self-advocacy
- Breaking generational cycles of abuse
- Intersectionality of narcissism and systemic oppression
- Challenging traditional relationship dynamics and male entitlement
- Gender roles and patriarchal power structures
Lynn is available for interviews, podcast appearances, and speaking engagements, bringing her expertise and survivor perspective to audiences seeking understanding and hope.
Advocacy and Cultural Impact
Beyond individual healing, Lynn is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment. Her work extends into examining how patterns of manipulation and control show up not just in personal relationships but within broader societal systems.
Since episode 69 of her podcast, Lynn has gained significant attention for her thoughtful exploration of how narcissistic tactics and power dynamics intersect with systemic issues affecting women. Her approach to deconstructing these larger patterns has resonated with audiences seeking to understand the connections between personal abuse experiences and cultural conditioning.
Lynn’s advocacy work focuses on helping women recognize and resist manipulation tactics wherever they encounter them—whether in intimate relationships, workplace dynamics, or societal expectations. Her mission includes empowering women to trust their own experiences, set firm boundaries, and advocate for themselves in all areas of life.
This broader perspective on systemic patterns of control has made Lynn’s voice increasingly influential in conversations about women’s empowerment and social change, while always maintaining her core focus on healing and recovery for abuse survivors.
Personal Philosophy
Lynn believes that our experiences—both good and bad—can become resources for healing and helping others. Her approach combines tough love with deep compassion, helping survivors recognize manipulation tactics while providing practical strategies for rebuilding their lives with authenticity and strength.
“I have an attitude and mentality to always be moving forward and using my past as a resource to assist others as they may be recovering from controlling and/or abusive relationships,” Lynn shares. “I am grateful for my life experiences and am delighted to be exactly where I am in this life.”
Beyond the Work
In her personal time, Lynn enjoys traveling both internationally and domestically, and spending time near the beach in warm weather. She continues to expand her platform through her Substack publication, Medium articles, and social media presence at @waketheelephant, always seeking new ways to reach and support survivors on their healing journeys.
Lynn’s work represents hope for anyone who has experienced family trauma or narcissistic abuse. Through her own transformation and dedication to helping others, she proves that healing is possible, and new, authentic relationships can be built.
To learn more about Lynn’s work, resources, and mission, visit movingforwardafterabuse.com or follow @waketheelephant on social media platforms.
Professional Education and Certificates
- Treating Complex PTSD – by Forward Facing Institute presented by Dr. J. Eric Gentry, Ph.D., LMHC, F.A.A.E.T.S. – IN PROCESS
- Ordained Minister – Universal Life Church, November 2024
- Certified Spiritual Counselor & Psychology Empath, October 2024
- Certification in Trauma-Informed Coaching & Counseling, Restoration Academy, October 2024
- Certified Narcissistic Abuse Healing Practitioner Course, October 2024
- Trauma Informed Care (TIC) Certification Course, October 2024
- Unlocking Business Success with Trauma Informed Care, October 2024
- Professional Life Coach Certification, Transformation Academy, October 2020
- University of North Texas – PDX – Paralegal Certificate, 2016
- University of Valley Forge; Phoenixville, PA, B.S. World Missions, May 1997
Our Vision
To serve as a resource of hope, encouragement and validation to victims of narcissistic abuse by facilitating a revolutionary change to pursue dreams, visions, and living intentionally.
Validation
Validate victims (now overcomers and survivors!)
Rebuild
To help rebuild lives – to live amazing, fulfilling lives. We are strong, and we have a voice.
Revolutionize
Encouragement to pursue dreams, missions, adventures and passions which, before, seemed impossible.
Validation. Rebuild. Revolutionize.

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