In Episode 13 of Train.Brain.Daily, Morry Morgan and Dr Michael Hewitt-Gleeson (Hewi) explore dopamine, the brain chemical often described as the source of pleasure. Hewi offers a different way to think about it: dopamine is closely tied to the pursuit of a reward. It helps drive anticipation, curiosity and the urge to find out what happens next.
Picture spotting the dessert trolley before you have eaten the pudding. Or checking your phone because the next notification might be interesting. That uncertainty can be compelling. Morry recognises the feeling in the brief pause between tapping his phone to pay and hearing the payment terminal approve it. Hewi explains how the difference between what we expect and what actually happens helps us learn which actions to repeat.
The pair bring the idea into sales. A signed deal feels exciting, but it is only one step towards delivering a service, getting paid and building a lasting customer relationship. They discuss why making contact with a potential customer can be more motivating than waiting for the final result, and why a good sales manager should also consider the customer’s experience throughout that journey.
Morry then shares what he sees at Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School graduations. Students step on stage for their first stand-up performances without knowing quite how the audience will respond. Some surprise even themselves. Morry describes the thrill of watching each student finish their set, while Hewi considers how a better-than-expected performance might encourage them to try comedy again.
The conversation moves from curiosity and creative risk to football fandom, talent shows and social media. Why do we keep scrolling when we meant to stop after a minute? Why can we continue wanting something even when we no longer enjoy it? Hewi cautions that behaviour and addiction are complex, but says understanding the pull of anticipation gives us a useful place to start.
Their practical takeaway is to notice the moment before you act. When you reach for your phone, pause and ask where you want to direct your curiosity. That small choice is part of the podcast’s wider theme: moving from your current view of the situation towards a better one.
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