Porn Addiction and Betrayal Trauma with Jeremy Mast

In this episode of The Richard Listens Show, Richard sits down with licensed therapist and relationship expert Jeremy Mast for a powerful conversation about addiction, trauma, shame, intimacy, and the growing impact of technology on our mental health.

Drawing from both his professional experience and personal journey with alcohol and pornography, Jeremy explores how early exposure, unresolved trauma, emotional isolation, and unmet needs can develop into compulsive behaviors. He explains why these struggles are especially prevalent among men—and why shame and secrecy often make them harder to overcome.

Richard and Jeremy unpack the difference between healthy and toxic shame, how compulsive behaviors can become ways of escaping difficult emotions, and why genuine connection is such an important part of healing. They also examine the rapidly changing digital landscape, including pornography, social media, and AI, and the unique challenges these technologies may create for younger generations.

Most importantly, Jeremy shares a hopeful path forward: addressing the behavior while going deeper into its emotional roots, developing healthier intimacy, creating safe spaces for vulnerability, and learning to heal through authentic relationships and support.

A thoughtful and timely conversation about what often hides beneath addiction—and how understanding, connection, and compassion can help people move toward lasting change.