A Pastor’s Journey Out of Porn, Sex Addiction, and Shame

In this episode, Ava Heinbach speaks with Nate Larkin, a former pastor and founder of the Samson Society, about his decades-long struggle with porn and sex addiction, the shame that kept it hidden, and the recovery that transformed his life and marriage.

Nate shares how early exposure to pornography, emotional vulnerability, and strict religious expectations led him to live a double life in ministry. He explains how shame fueled his addiction, distorted intimacy, and rewired his brain, ultimately escalating into infidelity.

After his wife confronted him and said she was done, Nate entered recovery and learned that real healing requires honesty, community, and long-term relational work. Today, he lives in daily recovery and helps others find freedom through the Samson Society, encouraging people not to face addiction alone and reminding listeners that real connection is always worth it.

More from Nate:

“Samson and the Pirate Monks” Book - https://a.co/d/bGnLo75

Samson Society - https://www.samsonsociety.com/

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