In this mailbag episode 'The High-Functioning Addicts' on Conversations Podcast, Wendy Conquest, Tim Stein, and Dan Drake tackle a listener’s question about “high-functioning” sex addicts.

These are people who appear to have everything under control yet still find themselves in patterns of secrecy, betrayal, and shame. What happens when addiction wears the disguise of success?

The Conversations Podcast hosts explore the subtle defenses that protect the illusion of control, the difference between compulsivity and authenticity, and why recovery work can be transformative even for those who don’t see themselves as “out of control.” Join the conversation as they discuss denial, ego, and the quiet chaos that lies beneath the surface of the “high-functioning” addict’s life and how true freedom may begin with humility and honest self-reflection.

#transformational #addictionrecovery #selfreflection #authenticity #betrayal 

Conversations Podcast hosts - Wendy Conquest, Dan Drake, and Tim Stein sit down to name the everyday dynamics that quietly erode even committed relationships.

They move beyond sex addiction to look at what harms connection in “ordinary” couples: assumptions and misattunement, the numbing presence of smartphones, the difference between healthy anger and aggression, dishonesty and lack of authenticity, and the pull of fantasy over reality. Using concepts like the “three H’s” (Do you want to be Helped, Heard, or Held?), love languages, and attunement, they offer practical scripts and questions partners can use in real time to reconnect instead of disconnect. They also explore how AI, social media, and cultural pressures make it harder to show up honestly and what it looks like to practice mindful “etiquette” so honesty doesn’t become brutality.

If you’ve ever wondered why your relationship feels stuck, distant, or “off” even without obvious betrayal, this conversation offers a clear, compassionate roadmap back to emotional and physical intimacy. Subscribe to Conversations on Sex, Addiction & Relationships today to watch their latest episode!

Betrayal shatters your world. Can you find a way to be brave and heal?

Join Jeanne Vattuone, Wendy Conquest and Dan Drake as they speak with this week's Podcast Guest, Tammy Gustafson, on Conversations. Tammy unveils her 6-year journey writing Broken to Brave, sharing her four phases of healing after intimate betrayal. From dysregulated nervous systems to demystifying the path forward, this episode offers betrayed partners clear guideposts, honest hope, and proof that thriving is possible. Available now on all podcast platforms and YouTube.

When does simply noticing someone cross into objectifying them?

They explore questions like:

Join us for an honest look at human nature, recovery, and rebuilding trust.

Available on all podcast platforms and subscribe on YouTube.

Technology has transformed nearly every part of modern life from how we work and communicate to how we seek comfort, connection, and even therapy. But as it continues to simplify daily tasks and free up time, a deeper question emerges: what do we choose to do with that time?

Is secrecy a core part of pornography addiction — or just one possible sign of a deeper struggle?

What happens when men are the ones betrayed by sex addiction?

When betrayal strikes, it’s not just pain, it’s the kind of anger you’ve never felt before. In this episode, the panel talks about how to feel and express anger without going into rage.

Is betrayal trauma really different for men and women?

Sex addiction takes its toll on the addict and the partner. Listen in for physical symptoms to know about.