Taming the Molecule of More by Michael E. Long

What if the chemical driving your desire for more is also influencing your relationships, ambitions, creativity, and the way you experience life?

In this episode, Dave and Poppy explore Taming The Molecule of More by Michael E. Long, a fascinating exploration of dopamine and its powerful influence on human behaviour, motivation, desire, and decision-making.

They unpack the difference between wanting and having, exploring why the brain can become more excited by what might happen than by what we already have. 

The conversation looks at how dopamine can drive ambition, curiosity, attraction, creativity, risk-taking, and our constant search for something new.

Dave and Poppy discuss how the pursuit of the next achievement, purchase, relationship, experience, or goal can create a cycle of anticipation that is difficult to switch off.

They also explore the tension between chasing what is possible and appreciating what is already in front of us.

The hosts reflect on what happens when the desire for more begins to influence our choices, relationships, and sense of fulfilment. 

This episode offers a fascinating look at the science behind motivation and raises an important question: are we controlling our desires, or are our desires controlling us?

If you’ve ever wondered why achieving something doesn’t always feel as satisfying as you expected, or why you’re constantly looking towards the next thing, this conversation offers plenty to think about.