Episode 20 - Feeling Attacked - Boundaries, Bullying, and the Courage to Change Old Patterns
When conflict hits close to home — whether it’s in the barnyard, the boardroom, or around the family table — it can feel personal and painful.
In this episode of The Rural Well, Bridget and Lauren open up about what it means to feel attacked, exploring how old wounds, sarcasm, and control dynamics show up in rural life and multigenerational farm families.
We talk practical wisdom, recognizing boundaries, changing harmful patterns, and reclaiming peace — without losing heart or heritage.
Lauren shares a personal high school bullying story — and how it shaped her understanding of conflict.
Bridgette and Lauren unpack “adult bullying” in farm settings — from land deals to family disagreements.
How to tell the difference between conflict (shared goals) and boundaries (self-protection).
Why sarcasm can be a “safe” way of hurting others — and how to stop using it.
The family scapegoat dynamic: what it is, how it forms, and how to break it.
A reminder that bullying isn’t a “rite of passage” — it’s a learned behavior we can unlearn.
A lighthearted closing question: If you could send your income tax dollars anywhere, where would they go? (Spoiler: Convoy of Hope, FFA, Compassion Canada, and Farm Rescue all get some love.)
Links and Resources:
http://www.nfmha.ca/ - National Farmer Mental Health Alliance
https://www.lilaclanemedia.com/ - Lilac Lane Media
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