

Unhooked: Breaking Porn Addiction Podcast
Jeremy Lipkowitz
Unhooked is a podcast dedicated to helping people break free from porn addiction and other compulsive behaviors related to the internet, sex, and intimacy. Rooted in Buddhist wisdom, neuroscience, coaching, and mindfulness, the show explores practical strategies for lasting recovery and personal transformation. Each episode features leading experts, scientists, coaches, and individuals in recovery, sharing their insights, experiences, and expertise to guide listeners on their path to healing and freedom.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 31, 2025 • 42min
130. From Porn Addiction to Mindful Living | Jeremy Lipkowitz Interview on Sober Awkward
In this special episode of the Unhooked Podcast, I reshape a candid conversation from the Sober Awkward Podcast, featuring hosts Victoria Vanstone and Hamish Adams-Cairns. We discuss various forms of addiction, with a focus on porn addiction. Topics include the root causes of addiction, the role of shame, emotional pain, and what true recovery looks like. I also share insights from my personal journey, including my time as a monk in Myanmar and how mindfulness has played a crucial role in my recovery. This episode provides valuable information for anyone struggling with compulsive behaviors, offering relatable content for those facing challenges with addiction, whether it’s alcohol, porn, food, or social media.🔹 Want personalized support? Book a free discovery call with Jeremy: JeremyLipkowitz.com/introConnect with Jeremy:🌍 Website: JeremyLipkowitz.com📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeremyLipkowitz📩 Email: jeremy@unhookedacademy.comJeremy’s Online Course: Unhooked – Step-by-Step Guide to Quitting PornTimestamps:00:00 Introduction and Special Episode Announcement01:37 Starting the Conversation: Addiction in All Forms03:28 My Personal Journey with Porn Addiction04:05 The Root Causes and Coping Mechanisms07:30 Impact of Porn Addiction on Relationships12:32 Recognizing Problematic Behavior17:18 The Role of Shame in Addiction22:27 My Path to Recovery: Mindfulness and Meditation27:58 The Transformative Power of Happiness33:57 Creating a Fulfilling Life to Combat Addiction36:29 Final Thoughts and ResourcesConnect with Sober Awkward:📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soberawkward/🌍 Website: https://www.soberawkward.com/🎙️ https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/sober-awkward/id1565657975🚀 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear this!

Mar 24, 2025 • 56min
129. Ryan Ridgway - Eight Months Sober and Still Suicidal: When Recovery Misses the Point
In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Ridgway, a mental health trainer with deep expertise in OCD, addiction, and recovery. We dive into the hidden connections between mental health struggles and addictive behaviors, exploring:✅ The link between OCD, compulsions, and addiction ✅ How to build resilience and mental toughness in recovery ✅ Why mindset shifts are key to long-term change ✅ Practical strategies to rewire your brain and break freeWhether you’re struggling with addiction, OCD, or want to understand the mental health factors behind compulsive behaviors, this conversation is for you.🎧 Listen now and start your journey to recovery!🔹 Want personalized support? Book a free discovery call with Jeremy: JeremyLipkowitz.com/introConnect with Jeremy:🌍 Website: JeremyLipkowitz.com📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeremyLipkowitz📩 Email: jeremy@unhookedacademy.comJeremy’s Online Course: Unhooked – Step-by-Step Guide to Quitting PornTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Ryan's Journey01:07 Meet Ryan Ridgeway03:05 Ryan's Early Struggles with Mental Health04:31 Recognizing and Coping with OCD07:12 The Sneaky Nature of Porn Addiction11:54 Challenges with 12-Step Programs16:44 The Importance of Hope in Recovery28:20 The Importance of Celebrating Wins28:35 Self-Compassion in Recovery30:19 Questioning the 12-Step Approach33:31 Finding a Personalized Recovery Path35:10 The Role of Physical Activity in Recovery36:07 Understanding Patterns and Triggers41:23 The Power of Community and Connection44:09 Encouraging Men to Open Up47:34 First Steps for Mental Health Support50:21 Advice to Younger Self53:43 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationConnect with Ryan Ridgway:📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voice_4_mentalhealth/🌍 Website: https://ridgwaymentalhealth.com/🚀 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear this!

Mar 17, 2025 • 36min
128. Why Porn Is So Addictive & How to Take Back Control (My Personal Journey) | Interview with Jeremy Lipkowitz & George Bell
🔹 Want personalized support? Book a free discovery call with Jeremy: JeremyLipkowitz.com/introHey everyone, Jeremy here. I recently sat down for an interview with a dear friend of mine who is writing a book on men's mental health issues, and we had an incredible conversation about the topic of porn addiction. We go deep into why so many men struggle with porn addiction, how it impacts relationships, intimacy, and mental health, and most importantly, how to break free from porn addiction. I share my own story, talk about the science behind addiction, and also what I've learned from coaching men around the world through this challenge. If you're curious about the psychology of addiction, why porn can be such a trap, and how you can take back control of your life, you'll definitely want to check out this conversation. And make sure to follow my dear friend George Bell. I will put his links into the show notes below. So without further ado, please enjoy this interview between myself and George Bell. In this episode, you can expect to learn: - The psychological factors behind porn addiction. - How porn addiction impacts mental health and relationships. - The concept of neuroplasticity and how it plays a key role in recovery. - The differences between coaching and therapy in treating addictions. - Practical steps to overcome porn addiction and regain control of your life.Connect with Jeremy:🌍 Website: JeremyLipkowitz.com📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeremyLipkowitz📩 Email: jeremy@unhookedacademy.com🚀 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Connect with George Bell: https://www.instagram.com/author_georgey/00:00 Introduction: Early Memories and the Start of Addiction01:03 Interview Introduction and Overview02:03 Jeremy's Background and Coaching Approach03:49 The Psychology of Addiction06:27 Defining Porn Addiction11:23 Personal Story: Jeremy's Journey16:39 Impact of Porn on Youth and Society21:02 Effects on Intimacy and Relationships26:43 Neuroplasticity and Recovery30:14 Ethical Considerations and Final Thoughts

Mar 10, 2025 • 19min
127. Do These 5 Things BEFORE You Start Your Porn Reboot / Porn Detox If You Want Long-Lasting Results (rebroadcast)
Before you begin your porn reboot or detox, preparation is key. In this special rebroadcast episode from 2022, Jeremy shares five essential steps to set yourself up for success. These strategies apply not only to quitting porn but also to overcoming other compulsive habits like social media, food addiction, and more. Learn how to clarify your "why," remove triggers, and build accountability for lasting change.🔹 Want personalized support? Book a free discovery call with Jeremy: JeremyLipkowitz.com/introTimestamps:(00:00) – Introduction: Why preparation is crucial before quitting porn (02:45) – Tip #1: Connect with your "why" – understanding the consequences of your habit (08:30) – The power of the "default future" exercise: Where will you be in 10 or 20 years? (12:15) – Tip #2: Envision the life you want to create – focus on approach-oriented goals (18:10) – How emotions drive our habits & how to shift toward fulfillment (21:45) – Tip #3: Accept that relapse will happen – progress over perfection (27:30) – The importance of how you respond to relapse & overcoming shame (32:20) – Tip #4: Remove triggers and barriers – why willpower isn’t enough (38:40) – Dr. Anna Lembke’s research on stimulus control & dopamine management (42:15) – Practical ways to make relapse harder (blocking strategies) (46:00) – Tip #5: Get accountability & support – the key to lasting change (52:30) – Why coaching and structured guidance can make all the difference (56:00) – Final recap: The five essential steps before your reboot (58:15) – How to get support & closing thoughtsResources Mentioned:Dr. Anna Lembke’s Book: Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of IndulgenceJeremy’s Online Course: Unhooked – Step-by-Step Guide to Quitting PornFree Discovery Call with Jeremy: JeremyLipkowitz.com/introConnect with Jeremy:🌍 Website: JeremyLipkowitz.com📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeremyLipkowitz📩 Email: jeremy@unhookedacademy.com🚀 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear this!

Mar 3, 2025 • 12min
126. What to Do When Your Brain Gets Hijacked by Cravings
In this episode, I discuss the internal battle between the rational and survival parts of the brain, especially in the context of porn addiction. I introduce a science-backed technique to intercept amygdala hijacks, emphasize the power of labeling emotions to regain control, and share my personal journey. Learn the importance of mindfulness and practical strategies to shift control back to the prefrontal cortex for better decision-making................Interested in joining the Unhooked Academy Group Program? Sign up for a free call:https://www.unhookedacademy.com/Looking for a self-led journey with the Unhooked Online Course:https://jeremylipkowitz.mykajabi.com/unhookedInterested in personal 1:1 coaching? Click here: https://www.jeremylipkowitz.com/introConnect with me on Social:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JeremyLipkowitz--------------Shownotes00:00 Introduction: The Battle in Your Brain00:40 Meet Jeremy: Personal and Professional Insights01:52 Understanding the Amygdala Hijack02:59 The Fight, Flight, Freeze, or F*** Response06:35 Mindfulness Technique: Labeling Your Emotions08:08 Building the Habit: Daily Mindfulness Practice09:14 Conclusion: Gaining Control and Freedom10:20 Subscribe and Further Support

Feb 24, 2025 • 10min
125. Why I Took on the 75 Hard Challenge (And Why You Should Consider It Too)
In this episode, I share my experiences and insights from being halfway through the 75 Hard Challenge. I discuss the five non-negotiable daily habits mandated by the challenge, the initial struggles, and the significant benefits I've noticed in terms of discipline, habit formation, and overall life improvement. I also emphasize the importance of structured challenges in personal growth and offer actionable advice for anyone considering undertaking a similar challenge. ...............Interested in joining the Unhooked Academy Group Program? Sign up for a free call:https://www.unhookedacademy.com/Looking for a self-led journey with the Unhooked Online Course:https://jeremylipkowitz.mykajabi.com/unhookedInterested in personal 1:1 coaching? Click here: https://www.jeremylipkowitz.com/introConnect with me on Social:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JeremyLipkowitz--------------Shownotes00:00 Introduction to 75 Hard Challenge02:14 What is the 75 Hard Challenge?02:42 Daily Habits of 75 Hard03:53 My Personal Journey Begins04:39 Early Challenges and Adjustments05:58 Midway Reflections and Insights07:44 Broader Impacts on Life08:52 Creating Your Own Challenge10:00 Conclusion and Next Steps

Feb 17, 2025 • 16min
124. 8 Critical Mistakes to Avoid Early On in Your Recovery from Porn Addiction
Join me as I share invaluable insights into the key mistakes to avoid during the initial stages of porn addiction recovery. Drawing from my own experience and years of coaching, I'll guide you through the essential strategies that can save you time, energy, and money. I'll highlight how relying solely on willpower, trying to quit both porn and masturbation simultaneously, and ignoring the importance of support and accountability can impede your progress. You'll also learn about the dangers of slippery slope behaviors, limiting beliefs, the necessity of forgiving yourself, and the importance of embracing your sexuality. Lastly, I'll emphasize the critical need to address other aspects of your life to ensure a holistic and fulfilling recovery. Stick around until the end, where I'll reveal the number one mistake that keeps many people trapped in the cycle of addiction for years. Don't miss this episode if you're committed to breaking free from porn addiction once and for all................Interested in joining the Unhooked Academy Group Program? Sign up for a free call:https://www.unhookedacademy.com/Looking for a self-led journey with the Unhooked Online Course:https://jeremylipkowitz.mykajabi.com/unhookedInterested in personal 1:1 coaching? Click here: https://www.jeremylipkowitz.com/introConnect with me on Social:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JeremyLipkowitz--------------Timestamps00:00 Introduction: What Not to Do in Early Recovery00:47 Meet Jeremy: Personal Updates and Background02:03 Eight Mistakes to Avoid in Early Recovery02:23 Mistake 1: Relying Entirely on Willpower04:25 Mistake 2: Quitting Porn and Masturbation Simultaneously05:56 Mistake 3: Lack of Support and Accountability07:31 Mistake 4: Ignoring Slippery Slope Behaviors08:55 Mistake 5: Limiting Beliefs and Harmful Identity Beliefs10:27 Mistake 6: Beating Yourself Up Over Slips11:39 Mistake 7: Viewing Sexuality as Bad or Wrong12:46 Mistake 8: Ignoring Other Life Problems14:54 Conclusion: Holistic Approach to Recovery

Feb 10, 2025 • 12min
123. Five Compelling Reasons to Quit Porn in 2025
Hey friends, welcome back to the channel! In this episode, I'm diving into five powerful reasons why quitting porn in 2025 might be one of the best decisions you ever make. Drawing from my personal journey and professional experience as a men's coach and former porn addict, I discuss how porn impacts your life and why eliminating it can help you reclaim your mind, energy, and potential. In this episode, you can expect to learn: - How porn creates unrealistic expectations about sex, intimacy, and relationships - Why porn trains your brain to chase novelty and how it affects real-life commitments - The cognitive costs of porn addiction, including its impact on focus and deep work - The emotional toll of lust and how it perpetuates a state of suffering - The dark side of the porn industry, including exploitation and abuse Thanks for watching, and if you want to learn more about breaking free from porn, check out my website for free resources or my group coaching program, Unhooked Academy................Interested in joining the Unhooked Academy Group Program? Sign up for a free call:https://www.unhookedacademy.com/Looking for a self-led journey with the Unhooked Online Course:https://jeremylipkowitz.mykajabi.com/unhookedInterested in personal 1:1 coaching? Click here: https://www.jeremylipkowitz.com/introConnect with me on Social:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JeremyLipkowitz--------------Shownotes00:00 Introduction: Why Quitting Porn in 2025 is Worth It01:10 The Impact of Unrealistic Expectations03:08 The Craving for Novelty and Its Consequences04:49 How Porn Affects Focus and Deep Work06:42 Understanding Lust as a Form of Suffering08:22 The Dark Side of the Porn Industry10:25 Conclusion and Next Steps

Feb 3, 2025 • 7min
122. How I avoid the binge and bender after a relapse with porn
In this episode, I'm diving into the concept of the ironic rebound effect and how it can derail your progress when trying to quit bad habits like porn, junk food, and video games. I'm sharing five powerful strategies to help you avoid the rebound effect and maintain steady progress on your journey to recovery. From shifting your perspective to practicing self-compassion, I'll provide you with practical tips and insights to help you bounce back from slips and continue moving in the right direction................Interested in joining the Unhooked Academy Group Program? Sign up for a free call:https://www.unhookedacademy.com/Looking for a self-led journey with the Unhooked Online Course:https://jeremylipkowitz.mykajabi.com/unhookedInterested in personal 1:1 coaching? Click here: https://www.jeremylipkowitz.com/introConnect with me on Social:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JeremyLipkowitz--------------Shownotes00:00 Introduction: The Ironic Rebound Effect00:51 Welcome and Overview01:32 Understanding the Rebound Effect02:49 Tip 1: Shift Your Perspective03:24 Tip 2: Practice Self-Compassion04:12 Tip 3: Recognize the Rebound04:46 Tip 4: Have a Plan05:17 Tip 5: Focus on Progress06:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jan 27, 2025 • 47min
121. Melinda Tankard Reist - The Silent Crisis: How Porn Is Reshaping Sexual Norms and Culture In Schools and Youth
In this episode of Unhooked, I sit down with Melinda Tankard Reist, a journalist and author of the book 'He Chose Porn Over Me.' We explore the devastating effects of pornography on women, relationships, and society. Melinda shares insights from her book on how women are affected by their partners' porn addiction, including emotional and physical health impacts. Our discussion also highlights the broader societal consequences, such as an increase in sexual harassment in schools and a rise in youth sex offenders. Despite the overwhelming challenges, Melinda calls for collective action to address these issues and support affected individuals. Expect to learn: - The emotional and physical impacts of porn addiction on women and girls - what is causing the increase in sexual harassment and harmful behaviors in schoolsHow the global porn industry perpetuates misogyny and racism - The challenges in regulating and addressing the porn industry's influence - Steps you can take to combat the negative effects of pornography on young women and young menand much more.. .Links to Connect with Melinda:www.melindatankardreist.com; Instagram @meltankardreist; X: @meltankardreist; FB: https:facebook.com/MelindaTankardReist...............Interested in joining the Unhooked Academy Group Program? Sign up for a free call:https://www.unhookedacademy.com/Looking for a self-led journey with the Unhooked Online Course:https://jeremylipkowitz.mykajabi.com/unhookedInterested in personal 1:1 coaching? Click here: https://www.jeremylipkowitz.com/introConnect with me on Social:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremylipkowitz/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JeremyLipkowitz--------------Shownotes00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:13 Discussing 'He Chose Porn Over Me'01:55 Impact of Pornography on Relationships04:14 Societal Consequences of Pornography06:41 Sexual Harassment in Schools18:17 Global Porn Industry and Racism19:40 Challenges in Addressing Pornography22:37 Positive Changes and Hope34:25 Advice for Men in Relationships41:25 Final Thoughts and Contact Information