Date With A Debut Series 3, Episode 19 - The Dopamine Brain by Dr Anastasia Hronis
Nov 17, 2025
Dr. Anastasia Hronis, a clinical psychologist and author, dives into the fascinating world of dopamine and its influence on behavior. She reveals her journey into addiction research and how reader feedback has sparked positive behavioral changes. The conversation explores the impact of social media on dopamine levels and fatigue, myth-busting the dopamine detox trend, and offers practical techniques for managing cravings. Anastasia emphasizes aligning values for sustained change and shares insights on the evolutionary purpose of dopamine in modern life.
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Episode notes
Reader Responses Turn Practical
- Readers emailed Anastasia describing practical life changes after reading the book, like reducing alcohol or phone use.
- One reader started a podcast and invited Anastasia as a guest, showing direct engagement with her work.
Social Media Hooks Yet Drains
- Social media design both hooks us via dopamine and drains our cognitive resources, producing tiredness despite engagement.
- This paradox explains why people may feel dissatisfied after heavy platform use.
Don't Fall For Extreme Detoxes
- Avoid extreme 'dopamine detox' prescriptions that ban all pleasurable activities for short periods.
- Understand dopamine's continuous role and favour science-backed, practical approaches to change.
