In a recent episode of the podcast "In the Mind of a Man," Jax Taylor, the 45-year-old alum of the reality series "Vanderpump Rules," opened up about his striped past, revealing that he lost his virginity at the age of 19. The discussion not only touched on his personal experiences but also explored how his 'very conservative' upbringing in Shelby Township, Michigan, shaped his early years and influenced his relationships.
Reflecting on his youth, Taylor noted that his high school experience was akin to the 1999 comedy "American Pie," highlighting a sheltered environment where things were relatively innocent. He remarked, "I don’t even think I had the sex talk with my dad … I also was a very late bloomer," during the episode aired on March 20, 2025.
Despite the protective environment of his upbringing, Taylor faced his own battles. Earlier in the month, he revealed to his fans that he has been struggling with cocaine addiction, which has significantly impacted his dating life. On the podcast, he shared, "I was invincible when I’d go on dates, I have everything to talk about, I’m the life of the party." However, with sobriety, Taylor expressed concerns about his ability to maintain that charm, admitting he fears he may not seem as fun or engaging.
Addressing his journey toward recovery, Taylor remarked, "I think I dabbled in it a little bit. I’m not in recovery for that, no. I’m just kind of sticking with the substance abuse right now and trying to figure that out." He emphasized his approach to fixing one issue at a time in his life. "Maybe we’ll branch into that later. I’m trying to fix one problem before I get to the other problems. I’m trying to patch it,” he said, shedding light on his ongoing struggle.
On March 19, 2025, during another podcast episode of "The Adam and Dr. Drew Show," Taylor voiced concerns about whether he was a sex addict, revealing deeper psychological issues that have contributed to his substance use. In previous discussions, he has described his characteristics that led to toxic behaviors in relationships, stating, "I breadcrumb, I love bomb [and also] gaslight. I had no idea there were terms for these things."
Taylor's process of confronting personal issues has also included completing a 30-day stint in a mental health facility, a significant step amid his divorce from Brittany Cartwright. He acknowledged the challenges posed by his diagnosis of bipolar disorder and PTSD, which he admitted affected his behavior and relationships. Last year, he even labeled himself a narcissist, suggesting that his self-reflection is a critical component of his recovery journey.
As Taylor continues to navigate his challenges, he remains determined to work towards sobriety and personal growth. His candid revelations serve as an important reminder of the complexities surrounding mental health and substance use, emphasizing the importance of addressing underlining issues rather than masking them. With ongoing struggles, his journey to self-improvement remains visible and relatable to many who have faced similar obstacles.
