High-Functioning Addiction: The Silent Shame Of Male Bulimia And Recovery With Kyle Ridley

High-Functioning Addiction: The Silent Shame Of Male Bulimia And Recovery With Kyle Ridley

June 2, 2026 · 35 min · Season 3 · Episode 10

About this episode

Kyle Ridley shares his journey of recovery from male bulimia and the stigma surrounding mental health for men.

The silent battle of shame and secrecy behind high-functioning addiction is exposed as Emmy-award-winning journalist and podcast host of The Tangle , Kyle Ridley , sits down to share his truth. Joining host Marc Lehman, Kyle reveals how his bulimia—a struggle often compounded by the stigma against men being vulnerable—consumed his twenties and made him a prisoner in his own home. He walks listeners through the critical steps of his lifelong journey of recovery, from the terrifying moment of intervention to embracing therapy and finding the courage to talk about his anxiety and fear of rejection. This conversation offers powerful lessons on how building a solid foundation of self-acceptance and community can finally break the cycle, leading to the confidence and grounded happiness that only comes from deep, ongoing healing. Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation .

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