MOHIVATE
Hosted by Dr. Mohi Sarawgee, a GP, MOHIvate is your doctor’s dose of heart and science — with just a touch of humour — because health and feeling good shouldn’t feel complicated. Each episode breaks down medicine and everyday science in a simple, thoughtful way, serving as a reminder that real health can still feel human. I hope you enjoy listening, learning, and carrying a little feel-good factor with you. Thank you for tuning in!
Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only. It is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your own doctor or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health, and never ignore or delay professional medical advice because of something you’ve heard here. The views expressed are my own and do not represent the views of any organizations or institutions I’m affiliated with.
MOHIVATE
12. The Science of Motivation: Dopamine | The Rhythm That Moves Us
In this week’s episode of MOHIVATE, Dr. Mohi Sarawgee explores dopamine - the neurotransmitter of anticipation, motivation, and the spark that pulls you toward what matters.
Dopamine is not the molecule of pleasure or fireworks, but the subtle chemistry of maybe - the signal that says, lean forward, try again, something meaningful might be here.
Dr. Mohi unpacks what dopamine really is, where it’s made, and how it shapes movement, momentum, curiosity, learning, procrastination, restlessness, and why modern life tugs so sharply at our attention.
From the midbrain pathways that steady your habits to the reward-prediction errors behind phones, novelty, and dating, this episode brings science into the moments you live every day - with warmth, humour, and a doctor’s clarity.
Discover what supports a healthy dopamine rhythm, and how to nurture motivation without burning out your nervous system.
References:
1. Schultz, W. (2016). Reward functions of the basal ganglia. Journal of Neural Transmission.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00702-016-1570-0
2. Salamone, J.D., & Correa, M. (2012). The Mysterious Motivational Functions of Mesolimbic Dopamine. Neuron.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2012.10.021
3. Björklund, A., & Dunnett, S. (2007). Dopamine neuron systems in the brain: an update. Trends in Neurosciences.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tins.2007.03.006
4. Lisman, J., & Grace, A.A. (2010). The hippocampal-VTA loop: controlling the entry of information into long-term memory. Neuron.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2010.05.002
5. Glimcher, P.W. (2011). Understanding dopamine and reinforcement learning. Current Opinion in Neurobiology.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conb.2011.02.012
6. Book reading : The Molecule of More” — Lieberman & Long
Just a gentle reminder: this episode is for information, education, and inspiration only. It’s not a substitute for your doctor’s advice. For any personal health concerns, always seek guidance from your doctor.