Why We Get Fooled: Shifting Our View on Scams and Scammers

Why is it important to separate your identity from your experience after you’ve been scammed? In this episode, Tamara Michèle sits down with Deb Andrew a Life and Wellness Coach and co-founder of Altruistic Coach. They explore how emotional recovery, mindset shifts, and self-compassion are essential tools in rebuilding confidence and staying resilient against future scams.

They unpack how scammers exploit not just your trust but your identity—using urgency, fear, and hope to break down your defenses. Deb explains why separating your self-worth from your experience is crucial after being scammed, and how re-framing failure can protect you from repeat victimization.

This episode isn’t just for scam victims—it’s for anyone who wants to become more emotionally resilient in an ever-changing world. You’ll learn how to spot emotional manipulation, rebuild confidence, and support loved ones who may be too ashamed to speak up.

Learn How:
✅ Scammers exploit emotional vulnerability, not intelligence
✅ Mental fitness helps you respond, not just react, after being scammed
✅ Shame can keep victims silent—and how to break that silence
✅ Re-framing your experience helps protect your identity and self-worth
✅ Empathy builds resilience and helps others heal too
✅ Talking openly about scams reduces stigma and increases awareness

References:
🧠 Altruistic Coach 📊 https://altruisticcoach.com/
🏡 Living Skies Lodge 🛏️ https://livingskieslodge.com/
🐶 Second Family Dog Lodge 🐾 https://secondfamilydoglodge.com/
Warren Barry Instinctive Solutions https://www.youtube.com/@UCCRvyDP9c5RuZtbvY04fWig
Brené Brown https://brenebrown.com/

What are my next steps?
📖 Start learning for free at https://learnonlinesecurity.com/start-here
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🏢 Learn more about our social engineering training for employees & business certification courses https://learnonlinesecurity.com/business-training

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Tamara Michéle Podcast Host: https://www.youtube.com/@UCNW7n6n7q9GzulfZ8fIW0cg

Whether you’ve been scammed, almost tricked, or just want to stay sharp, this conversation will help you shift your mindset, recognize red flags faster, and walk away stronger.

This is not a paid endorsement. Guest opinions are their own.