In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most misunderstood — and most powerful — parts of the internal system: the Protector Part.

The Protector is the part of us that steps between us and anything that feels threatening… which, as Brittney explains, can mean real threats OR the ones our brain just perceives as dangerous. Sometimes that looks heroic and loving. Sometimes it looks self-sabotaging. And sometimes, when paired with the Critical Part, it can go to some dark places.

It’s heavier material, but it’s important material. And as always, we keep it real, grounded, and practical.

Content Warnings

This episode includes discussion of:

· Suicide and suicidal ideation

· Domestic violence and abuse

· Power, control, and harmful ideologies

· Real-world violence and systemic oppression

Please listen gently and skip sections as needed.

This episode was recorded on November 17, 2025 and released on December 17, 2025.

If you prefer to consume your podcasts visually, we also offer video versions on YouTube @thiswayinpodcast or at our website at https://www.thiswayinpodcast.com

Chapter Markers

00:00:15 Welcome

00:03:20 Real vs. Perceived Threats

00:16:17 When Protector Parts are Challenged

00:31:05 When Protector Interacts with Other Parts

00:45:00 Protector Parts and Suicide

00:50:08 Medically Assisted Suicide

00:53:00 When Protection Mode is Always On

00:54:40 What Can We Do?

01:01:03 Disclaimer and Outro

Episode links:

Women Who Love Too Much by Robin Norwood, (1990)

https://amzn.to/47YAmnm

Leave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/

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Disclaimer

This Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here.

Credits:

Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy Lotsberg

Production, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC.

Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio

Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!