In this episode, Dr. Michael Maddaus interviews Dr. Daniel Z. Lieberman, psychiatrist and author of the best-selling book, The Molecule of More. Why are we obsessed with the things we want and bored when we get them? Why is addiction “perfectly logical” to an addict? Dopamine, according to Dr. Lieberman. This chemical pushes us to achieve greatness, but it also can lead to our downfall. Listeners learn fascinating details about the general science of dopamine and the role it plays in directing behavior. Dr. Lieberman also discusses other “brain pleasure molecules” (serotonin, endorphins, oxytocin, and endocannabinoids) and shares how mental wellbeing critically depends on the skillful management of these brain chemicals. “The Resilient Surgeon” is a program from the Society designed to inspire cardiothoracic surgeons to be their best selves, in and out of the OR, using scientifically proven tools and recovery strategies of the world’s top performers.

Dr. Lieberman can be reached at www.danielzlieberman.com.

View the TED Talk, “What Makes a Good Life? Lessons from the Longest Study on Happiness,” mentioned during this episode.

Learn more about STS wellness efforts at sts.org/wellness.