Pirate Monk Podcast 475 | Taming the Molecule of More | Michael Long
Aug 14, 2025
Michael Long, an author, physicist, and former comedian, dives deep into the world of dopamine, exploring its dual nature. He highlights how technology, like smartphones and dating apps, feeds our addiction to novelty and instant gratification. Using the analogy of gasoline, he explains how dopamine can drive us positively or lead to detrimental behaviors. Long also offers practical exercises to harness dopamine effectively, promoting a more fulfilling life. Plus, he’s open to crashing your book club—talk about a unique guest!
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Drive To Zanie's As Dopamine Pull
- Michael Long recounts moving to Nashville to pursue stand-up and repeatedly driving to Zanie's comedy club.
- He uses the story to illustrate dopamine pulling him toward a hoped-for dream on 8th Avenue.
Dopamine Is The Molecule Of More
- Dopamine drives anticipation and pursuit more than pleasure; it fuels wanting, not the enjoyment of arrival.
- Michael Long explains this explains behaviors like perpetual pursuit and loss of interest after attainment.
Pursuit Often Beats Possession
- Highly dopaminergic people tend to love pursuit more than possession, explaining patterns like self-sabotage after success.
- Cultural examples (e.g., Seinfeld's George) illustrate this paradox of wanting but not enjoying the win.
