370: Growing Up Codependent Pt. 1

About this episode

In this episode, Justin and Abi discuss how childhood experiences and emotional patterns contribute to codependency and the challenges of establishing healthy connections.

So many of us confuse codependency with love—believing that fixing, managing, or rescuing others is the way to feel safe and connected. But what if that "care" is really control in disguise? In part one of this three part series, Justin and Abi get personal about how childhood instability, unprocessed grief, and toxic empathy shaped their patterns of over-responsibility. They unpack how codependency forms as a survival strategy, why hyper-vigilance can feel like compassion, and the hidden cost of carrying emotions that aren't yours. From childhood memories to marriage struggles, they share what it took to untangle those dynamics and begin choosing connection without control. If you've ever felt exhausted from fixing everyone else, wondered why you can't stay out of someone's emotions, or longed for healthier boundaries, this conversation is for you! You can WATCH us at https://www.justinandabi.com/theconnectedlife Don't forget to RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE, AND SHARE!

People in this episode

Hosts: Justin Stumvoll, Abi Stumvoll

Topics covered

• codependency
• childhood instability
• emotional boundaries
• toxic empathy
• over-responsibility
• connection

Keywords

• codependency
• love
• emotional control
• hyper-vigilance
• boundaries
• childhood trauma
• grief

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