In this episode, I sit down with writer and speaker Amanda McCracken, who shares her deeply personal journey as a late-in-life virgin — a story that’s so much more layered than people realize. We talk about how purity culture shaped her beliefs around sex and relationships, the misconceptions she had to untangle about virginity and self-worth, and how those early narratives followed her well into adulthood.

Amanda also breaks down limerence — that intoxicating, obsessive pull toward unavailable partners — and explains the science behind longing and why dopamine can keep us hooked on fantasy instead of grounded, healthy love.

We explore how she began healing through somatic work, how reconnecting with her body changed everything, and how her family dynamics influenced the kind of love she chased. Her story is such a powerful example of what happens when you start choosing yourself, building self-worth, and stepping out of old patterns.

Follow Amanda- @amandajmccracken - https://www.instagram.com/amandajmccracken/

Get her book, "When Longing Becomes Your Lover"- https://amzn.to/4pzsC2O

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