Why Toxic Relationships Feel Addictive | Love, Lust, & Dopamine with C.R. Herro

Have a question or comment? Send it to Kristin!This episode is brought to you by... tacos & tequila. 🤪After a couple of anejos, addiction therapist C.R. Herro joins me for a candid conversation about dopamine, addiction, fantasy, and why we so often find ourselves chasing the very things that keep us stuck.We explore:• What addiction really is (and why it's more common than you think)• The difference between guilt and shame... and why it matters• Why we stay in relationships that hurt us• The hidden addiction to productivity, achievement, and external validation• Fantasy vs. authentic intimacy• Dating in the age of AI• What it actually means to live authenticallyTimestamps:00:00 Intro02:18 The Real Definition of Addiction 07:42 Dopamine, Survival, & Your Brain 14:35 Why We Repeat Self-Destructive Behaviors 21:58 Accountability vs. Excuses 29:41 Addiction to Success & Validation 37:56 Guilt & Shame Explained 45:10 Why Toxic Relationships Feel Addictive 52:44 Fantasy vs. Authentic Love Support the showConnect with Kristin:WebsiteInstagramFacebook YouTubeKristin’s Book:Sex, Drugs, & Soul Spotify AudiobookSubscribe:YouTubeSpotifyApplePeptides:Oral Quicksilver GHK/Copper Peptidehttps://elliemd.com/kristinbirdwellMicrodose 🍄 https://myfeelium.co/password: opensesameCode: kristin20 for 20% off