This episode delves into the delicate balance between intrinsic passion and extrinsic support—especially in education and the workforce. Eartha shares heartfelt insights into how external motivators—often necessary for those navigating unmet basic needs—can coexist with inner drive when approached with care and intention.
Using the gentle analogy of a child learning to ride a bike, Eartha illustrates the importance of scaffolding growth for new learners, like graduate nurses, so they can build confidence without feeling overwhelmed. The discussion draws on foundational research by Edward Deci and Alfie Kohn, highlighting how extrinsic rewards may dampen intrinsic motivation, especially for tasks that are naturally enjoyable. Yet, through personal stories and compassionate reflection, Eartha challenges this notion, emphasizing that emotional sensitivity and relevance are key to sustaining engagement.
**At the end of the podcast enjoy a seven minute bonus mini-podcast I developed with Microsoft’s Copilot. I asked Copilot a series of questions regarding intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. The bonus episode “Motivation Through Time”, invites the listener to explore the quiet power of intrinsic motivation—the inner spark that drives us to learn, grow, and connect with purpose.
Through a warm and insightful discussion, we journey across the lifespan, beginning with the natural curiosity of childhood. We reflect on how this innate drive can fade during adolescence, often overshadowed by external expectations like grades and performance. Yet, hope emerges as we examine how intrinsic motivation can reawaken and stabilize in adulthood, shaped by personal values, meaningful relationships, and lived experience.
Listeners will discover compassionate strategies for nurturing this inner drive—such as fostering autonomy, creating space for skill-building, and honoring each individual’s unique path. Together, we emphasize the importance of cultivating environments that uplift and inspire, rather than relying solely on rewards or pressure.
In summary educators and leaders are encouraged to communicate purpose clearly, recognize individual goals, and create environments where both types of motivation can flourish. Reflect on your personal incentives and the quiet joy of accomplishment—motivation is not a formula, but a relationship. Remember when we support the heart of motivation, we empower lifelong learning, resilience, and joy.
https://youtu.be/1FV8ZfMemk4
Study / Author
Key Findings
Implications
Edward Deci (1971)
External rewards (like money) reduced students’ intrinsic interest in puzzle-solving once the rewards stopped.
Incentives can undermine natural curiosity and enjoyment of learning.
Alfie Kohn – Punished by Rewards(1994)
Rewards are a form of control that shift focus from learning to earning. They reduce creativity, persistence, and long-term motivation.
Encourages educators to foster autonomy and intrinsic motivation instead of using bribes.
Simon Burgess et al. (2021)
Incentives had minimal impact on academic performance in a large-scale randomized trial. Only a small subset of students responded positively.
Incentives may not be cost-effective or broadly beneficial in educational settings.
Brookings Institution Report
Incentives tied to effort (e.g., reading books) are more effective than those tied to outcomes (e.g., test scores), but long-term benefits are limited.
Suggests careful design of incentive programs, with emphasis on effort and growth.
