Daniel Lieberman: Dopamine, Desire, and Why Enough is Never Enough

In this mind-expanding conversation, psychiatrist and author Daniel Lieberman unpacks the role of dopamine — the brain's molecule of motivation — and how it shapes nearly every aspect of our lives, from love and ambition to addiction and impulsive behavior. Drawing from his bestselling book *The Molecule of More*, Lieberman explains why we’re wired to crave what's out of reach and why that craving often leads to restlessness, dissatisfaction, or destructive decisions. He contrasts dopamine’s future-focused drive with the chemistry of the present moment, exploring how we mistake infatuation for love, sabotage long-term happiness, and continually chase “more” even when we have enough. Packed with science, stories, and sobering insights, this episode offers a framework for understanding your own behavior and building a more balanced relationship with desire itself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.