Dopamine, Addiction, and Sobriety: How to Rewire Your Brain’s Reward System w/ Michael E. Long

Sober Vibes: Alcohol free lifestyle tips for long-term sobriety, whether you're sober curious or ready to quit drinking for good

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In episode 237 of the Sober Vibes podcast, I welcome Michael E. Long, coauthor of the international bestseller The Molecule of More and author of the new follow-up, Taming the Molecule of More. Michael explains how alcohol hijacks our brain’s reward system and shares practical, science-backed strategies to rewire it for a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Dopamine doesn’t create happiness—it drives anticipation and desire. That’s why understanding it is central to breaking free from alcohol and building lasting sobriety.

What you will learn in this episode:

• Why dopamine is the neurotransmitter that makes us want more rather than enjoy what we have
• How alcohol and other addictive substances flood the brain with artificial dopamine, rewiring your reward system
• The surprising ways modern technology triggers similar dopamine-driven anticipation patterns
• Why recovery requires replacing dopamine-seeking behaviors with “here-and-now” experiences
• How finding deeper meaning is essential for long-term sobriety and satisfaction
• Simple daily practices like listing victories and practicing presence can rewire your reward pathways
• Why rebalancing dopamine starts within days but continues as a lifelong process

If you’ve ever felt restless, joyless, or like something is “missing” in early sobriety, this episode will help you understand why and give you a clear path toward lasting fulfillment.

Connect with Michael E. Long:

Website

Molecule of More

Taming the Molecule of More

Resources Mentioned:

Sober 1:1 Coaching

The Sobriety Circle

The After-Emotional Sobriety Guide

PODCAST SPONSOR:

This episode is sponsored by Soberlink, a trusted accountability tool for anyone navigating early recovery. Whether you're rebuilding trust with loved ones or want more structure in your sobriety, Soberlink offers a discreet and empowering way to stay on track.

Sober Vibes listeners get $50 off their device!
Grab your discount here!

Hope this episode helps you today!

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فصول

1. Dopamine: The Molecule of More (00:00:00)

2. Meeting Michael E. Long (00:04:02)

3. The Science of Craving and Reward (00:08:55)

4. Smartphone Addiction and Dopamine (00:18:06)

5. Finding Meaning Beyond Dopamine (00:24:38)

6. Living in the Present Moment (00:31:10)

7. Practical Tools for Recovery (00:35:00)