In this episode, I sit down with motivational psychology expert Dr. Bobby Hoffman to explore the fascinating ideas behind his new book The Paradox of Passion: How Rewards Covertly Control Motivation.

Dr. Hoffman unpacks one of the most overlooked truths in human behavior — that the very rewards we use to inspire achievement often end up sabotaging our passion and autonomy. Drawing from decades of research in cognitive and educational psychology, he explains why motivation is more fragile, complex, and deeply human than we tend to believe.

Together, Matt and Dr. Hoffman discuss how to reclaim intrinsic motivation, nurture genuine passion, and resist the subtle ways systems of reward shape our choices and our identities.