About Eva Dillon

Personal and Family Background

Eva Dillon grew up as the daughter of Paul Dillon, a career CIA officer who ran Dmitri Polyakov, one of the most prolific Soviet spies of the Cold War, providing critical intelligence that helped end the era.[1][4][7][13][19] Her memoir Spies in the Family (2017, Harper) reveals the human side of spycraft, blending family memoir with thriller elements, as she researched declassified files and interviewed key figures.[5][8][17][20] She holds a B.M. from VCU (1982) and transitioned from 25 years in magazine publishing (Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Glamour, The New Yorker) to therapy.[7][12][20]

Espionage and Cold War Legacy

Dillon's book portrays the unlikely friendship between her father and Polyakov, framing Polyakov as 'America's greatest asset' whose intel prevented escalation.[1][13][18][19] Polyakov's story, including his execution by the Soviets, highlights personal risks and betrayals in intelligence work.[4][15] She has discussed this in book talks, podcasts, and interviews, humanizing spies beyond stereotypes.[5][8][14][15][17]

Sex Therapy and Couples Work

As a sex therapist at Sublime Relating, Dillon addresses lack of sexual attraction in long-term relationships, noting women can cultivate desire through therapy.[3] In podcasts, she shares key questions she asks clients to unpack relational and sexual dynamics.[2][6] Her approach emphasizes practical, empathetic inquiry into intimacy barriers.[2]

Publishing and Professional Transition

Dillon's career evolved from advertising sales to executive roles in NYC publishing, informing her writing style.[12][20] Post-Spies in the Family, she pivoted to therapy, supporting causes like the Shulgin Foundation, linked to psychedelic research on relationships.[9]

Public Engagements and Recognition

She has appeared on SpyCast, Questionable Strategy podcasts, and events like Charleston Library Society talks.[4][6][15] Her book earned a Kirkus starred review and media coverage.[15][17]