-
Dopamine Nation
- Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence
- Narrated by: Dr. Anna Lembke
- Length: 6 hrs and 11 mins
Add to Cart failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Adding to library failed
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed

pick 2 free titles with trial.
Buy for $16.49
No default payment method selected.
We are sorry. We are not allowed to sell this product with the selected payment method
Listeners also enjoyed...
-
Outlive
- The Science and Art of Longevity
- By: Peter Attia MD, Bill Gifford - contributor
- Narrated by: Peter Attia MD
- Length: 17 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A groundbreaking manifesto on living better and longer that challenges the conventional medical thinking on aging and reveals a new approach to preventing chronic disease and extending long-term health, from a visionary physician and leading longevity expert.
-
-
Packed with fresh perspective
- By S. Grose on 03-30-23
By: Peter Attia MD, and others
-
The Molecule of More
- How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity - And Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race
- By: Daniel Z. Lieberman MD, Michael E. Long
- Narrated by: Tom Parks
- Length: 8 hrs and 13 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In The Molecule of More: How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity—and will Determine the Fate of the Human Race, George Washington University professor and psychiatrist Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, and Georgetown University lecturer Michael E. Long present a potentially life-changing proposal: Much of human life has an unconsidered component that explains an array of behaviors previously thought to be unrelated, including why winners cheat, why geniuses often suffer with mental illness, why nearly all diets fail, and more.
-
-
Did you know conservatives have more orgasms?
- By Josh on 10-21-20
By: Daniel Z. Lieberman MD, and others
-
Why We Sleep
- Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams
- By: Matthew Walker
- Narrated by: Steve West
- Length: 13 hrs and 52 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Sleep is one of the most important but least understood aspects of our life, wellness, and longevity. Until very recently, science had no answer to the question of why we sleep, or what good it served, or why we suffer such devastating health consequences when we don't sleep. Compared to the other basic drives in life - eating, drinking, and reproducing - the purpose of sleep remained elusive.
-
-
I recommend this to EVERYONE
- By meggiemine on 12-11-17
By: Matthew Walker
-
Breath
- The New Science of a Lost Art
- By: James Nestor
- Narrated by: James Nestor
- Length: 7 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
There is nothing more essential to our health and well-being than breathing. Yet, as a species, humans have lost the ability to breathe correctly, with grave consequences. Journalist James Nestor travels the world to figure out what went wrong and how to fix it. The answers aren’t found in pulmonology labs, as we might expect, but in the muddy digs of ancient burial sites, secret Soviet facilities, New Jersey choir schools, and the smoggy streets of São Paulo. Nestor tracks down men and women exploring the hidden science behind ancient breathing practices.
-
-
Does NOT coincide with Book text
- By FamAzz on 07-13-20
By: James Nestor
-
The Comfort Crisis
- Embrace Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self
- By: Michael Easter
- Narrated by: Michael Easter
- Length: 8 hrs and 52 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In many ways, we’re more comfortable than ever before. But could our sheltered, temperature-controlled, overfed, underchallenged lives actually be the leading cause of many our most urgent physical and mental health issues? In this gripping investigation, award-winning journalist Michael Easter seeks out off-the-grid visionaries, disruptive genius researchers, and mind-body conditioning trailblazers who are unlocking the life-enhancing secrets of a counterintuitive solution: discomfort.
-
-
beyond expectations
- By CassieM on 06-03-21
By: Michael Easter
-
The Body Keeps the Score
- Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
- By: Bessel A. van der Kolk
- Narrated by: Sean Pratt
- Length: 16 hrs and 15 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Trauma is a fact of life. Veterans and their families deal with the painful aftermath of combat; one in five Americans has been molested; one in four grew up with alcoholics; one in three couples have engaged in physical violence. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, one of the world’s foremost experts on trauma, has spent more than three decades working with survivors. In The Body Keeps the Score, he uses recent scientific advances to show how trauma literally reshapes both body and brain, compromising sufferers’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust.
-
-
Overall Worthwhile, Lingers Too Long in the Why
- By LittleBeadsOfMercury on 04-07-21
-
Outlive
- The Science and Art of Longevity
- By: Peter Attia MD, Bill Gifford - contributor
- Narrated by: Peter Attia MD
- Length: 17 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
A groundbreaking manifesto on living better and longer that challenges the conventional medical thinking on aging and reveals a new approach to preventing chronic disease and extending long-term health, from a visionary physician and leading longevity expert.
-
-
Packed with fresh perspective
- By S. Grose on 03-30-23
By: Peter Attia MD, and others
-
The Molecule of More
- How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity - And Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race
- By: Daniel Z. Lieberman MD, Michael E. Long
- Narrated by: Tom Parks
- Length: 8 hrs and 13 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In The Molecule of More: How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity—and will Determine the Fate of the Human Race, George Washington University professor and psychiatrist Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, and Georgetown University lecturer Michael E. Long present a potentially life-changing proposal: Much of human life has an unconsidered component that explains an array of behaviors previously thought to be unrelated, including why winners cheat, why geniuses often suffer with mental illness, why nearly all diets fail, and more.
-
-
Did you know conservatives have more orgasms?
- By Josh on 10-21-20
By: Daniel Z. Lieberman MD, and others
-
Why We Sleep
- Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams
- By: Matthew Walker
- Narrated by: Steve West
- Length: 13 hrs and 52 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Sleep is one of the most important but least understood aspects of our life, wellness, and longevity. Until very recently, science had no answer to the question of why we sleep, or what good it served, or why we suffer such devastating health consequences when we don't sleep. Compared to the other basic drives in life - eating, drinking, and reproducing - the purpose of sleep remained elusive.
-
-
I recommend this to EVERYONE
- By meggiemine on 12-11-17
By: Matthew Walker
-
Breath
- The New Science of a Lost Art
- By: James Nestor
- Narrated by: James Nestor
- Length: 7 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
There is nothing more essential to our health and well-being than breathing. Yet, as a species, humans have lost the ability to breathe correctly, with grave consequences. Journalist James Nestor travels the world to figure out what went wrong and how to fix it. The answers aren’t found in pulmonology labs, as we might expect, but in the muddy digs of ancient burial sites, secret Soviet facilities, New Jersey choir schools, and the smoggy streets of São Paulo. Nestor tracks down men and women exploring the hidden science behind ancient breathing practices.
-
-
Does NOT coincide with Book text
- By FamAzz on 07-13-20
By: James Nestor
-
The Comfort Crisis
- Embrace Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self
- By: Michael Easter
- Narrated by: Michael Easter
- Length: 8 hrs and 52 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In many ways, we’re more comfortable than ever before. But could our sheltered, temperature-controlled, overfed, underchallenged lives actually be the leading cause of many our most urgent physical and mental health issues? In this gripping investigation, award-winning journalist Michael Easter seeks out off-the-grid visionaries, disruptive genius researchers, and mind-body conditioning trailblazers who are unlocking the life-enhancing secrets of a counterintuitive solution: discomfort.
-
-
beyond expectations
- By CassieM on 06-03-21
By: Michael Easter
-
The Body Keeps the Score
- Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
- By: Bessel A. van der Kolk
- Narrated by: Sean Pratt
- Length: 16 hrs and 15 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Trauma is a fact of life. Veterans and their families deal with the painful aftermath of combat; one in five Americans has been molested; one in four grew up with alcoholics; one in three couples have engaged in physical violence. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, one of the world’s foremost experts on trauma, has spent more than three decades working with survivors. In The Body Keeps the Score, he uses recent scientific advances to show how trauma literally reshapes both body and brain, compromising sufferers’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust.
-
-
Overall Worthwhile, Lingers Too Long in the Why
- By LittleBeadsOfMercury on 04-07-21
-
Atomic Habits
- An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
- By: James Clear
- Narrated by: James Clear
- Length: 5 hrs and 35 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
No matter your goals, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for improving - every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results. If you're having trouble changing your habits, the problem isn't you. The problem is your system. Bad habits repeat themselves again and again not because you don't want to change, but because you have the wrong system for change.
-
-
Author went overboard hawking his site
- By CHughes on 06-25-19
By: James Clear
-
Brain Energy
- A Revolutionary Breakthrough in Understanding Mental Health—and Improving Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and More
- By: Christopher M. Palmer MD
- Narrated by: Christopher M. Palmer MD
- Length: 12 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
We are in the midst of a global mental health crisis, and mental illnesses are on the rise. But what causes mental illness? And why are mental health problems so hard to treat? Drawing on decades of research, Harvard psychiatrist Dr. Chris Palmer outlines a revolutionary new understanding that for the first time unites our existing knowledge about mental illness within a single framework: mental disorders are metabolic disorders of the brain. Brain Energy will transform the field of mental health, and the lives of countless people around the world.
-
-
Arguing brain health theory to medical profession
- By Maya H Saric on 03-10-23
-
The Myth of Normal
- Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture
- By: Gabor Maté MD, Daniel Maté
- Narrated by: Daniel Maté
- Length: 18 hrs and 12 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In this revolutionary book, renowned physician Gabor Maté eloquently dissects how in Western countries that pride themselves on their healthcare systems, chronic illness and general ill health are on the rise. Nearly 70 percent of Americans are on at least one prescription drug; more than half take two. In Canada, every fifth person has high blood pressure. In Europe, hypertension is diagnosed in more than 30 percent of the population. And everywhere, adolescent mental illness is on the rise. So what is really “normal” when it comes to health?
-
-
Bought book after hearing podcast...
- By Adrian on 09-14-22
By: Gabor Maté MD, and others
-
Talking to Strangers
- What We Should Know About the People We Don't Know
- By: Malcolm Gladwell
- Narrated by: Malcolm Gladwell
- Length: 8 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
How did Fidel Castro fool the CIA for a generation? Why did Neville Chamberlain think he could trust Adolf Hitler? Why are campus sexual assaults on the rise? Do television sitcoms teach us something about the way we relate to each other that isn't true? While tackling these questions, Malcolm Gladwell was not solely writing a book for the page. He was also producing for the ear. In the audiobook version of Talking to Strangers, you’ll hear the voices of people he interviewed - scientists, criminologists, military psychologists.
-
-
Enjoyable listen with some facts incorrect
- By Jim on 09-11-19
By: Malcolm Gladwell
-
Lifespan
- Why We Age - and Why We Don't Have To
- By: David A. Sinclair PhD, Matthew D. LaPlante
- Narrated by: David A. Sinclair PhD
- Length: 11 hrs and 55 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
From an acclaimed Harvard professor and one of Time’s most influential people, this paradigm-shifting audiobook shows how almost everything we think we know about aging is wrong, offers a front-row seat to the amazing global effort to slow, stop, and reverse aging, and calls listeners to consider a future where aging can be treated.
-
-
Incredible
- By Nikolai B.G on 09-13-19
By: David A. Sinclair PhD, and others
-
Sapiens
- A Brief History of Humankind
- By: Yuval Noah Harari
- Narrated by: Derek Perkins
- Length: 15 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Most books about the history of humanity pursue either a historical or a biological approach, but Dr. Yuval Noah Harari breaks the mold with this highly original book. From examining the role evolving humans have played in the global ecosystem to charting the rise of empires, Sapiens integrates history and science to reconsider accepted narratives, connect past developments with contemporary concerns, and examine specific events within the context of larger ideas.
-
-
Take the Negative Reviews w/ a Grain of Salt
- By Gabriel on 08-29-18
-
The Mountain Is You
- Transforming Self-Sabotage into Self-Mastery
- By: Brianna Wiest
- Narrated by: Stacey Glemboski
- Length: 5 hrs and 44 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Coexisting but conflicting needs create self-sabotaging behaviors. This is why we resist efforts to change, often until they feel completely futile. But by extracting crucial insight from our most damaging habits, building emotional intelligence by better understanding our brains and bodies, releasing past experiences at a cellular level, and learning to act as our highest potential future selves, we can step out of our own way and into our potential.
-
-
Underwelming
- By Erin on 04-20-22
By: Brianna Wiest
-
How to Change Your Mind
- What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence
- By: Michael Pollan
- Narrated by: Michael Pollan
- Length: 13 hrs and 35 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When Michael Pollan set out to research how LSD and psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) are being used to provide relief to people suffering from difficult-to-treat conditions such as depression, addiction, and anxiety, he did not intend to write what is undoubtedly his most personal book. But upon discovering how these remarkable substances are improving the lives not only of the mentally ill but also of healthy people coming to grips with the challenges of everyday life, he decided to explore the landscape of the mind in the first person as well as the third.
-
-
A delightful trip
- By Paul E. Williams on 05-19-18
By: Michael Pollan
-
In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts
- Close Encounters with Addiction
- By: Gabor Maté MD
- Narrated by: Daniel Maté
- Length: 16 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In this timely and profoundly original book, best-selling writer and physician Gabor Maté looks at the epidemic of addictions in our society, tells us why we are so prone to them, and what is needed to liberate ourselves from their hold on our emotions and behaviours.
-
-
Gabor should have been the narrator
- By Stacey on 08-16-19
By: Gabor Maté MD
-
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
- A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life
- By: Mark Manson
- Narrated by: Roger Wayne
- Length: 5 hrs and 17 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
For decades we've been told that positive thinking is the key to a happy, rich life. "F*ck positivity," Mark Manson says. "Let's be honest, shit is f*cked, and we have to live with it." In his wildly popular Internet blog, Manson doesn't sugarcoat or equivocate. He tells it like it is - a dose of raw, refreshing, honest truth that is sorely lacking today. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck is his antidote to the coddling, let's-all-feel-good mind-set that has infected modern society and spoiled a generation, rewarding them with gold medals just for showing up.
-
-
A book for 20-somethings, but not me
- By Bonny on 09-22-16
By: Mark Manson
-
The Biology of Desire
- Why Addiction Is Not a Disease
- By: Marc Lewis PhD
- Narrated by: Don Hagen
- Length: 7 hrs and 40 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The psychiatric establishment and rehab industry in the Western world have branded addiction a brain disease based on evidence that brains change with drug use. But in The Biology of Desire, cognitive neuroscientist and former addict Marc Lewis makes a convincing case that addiction is not a disease and shows why the disease model has become an obstacle to healing. Lewis reveals addiction as an unintended consequence of the brain doing what it's supposed to do - seek pleasure and relief - in a world that's not cooperating.
-
-
An important addition to understanding addiction.
- By Jeff M on 02-28-16
By: Marc Lewis PhD
-
Habits of a Happy Brain
- Retrain Your Brain to Boost Your Serotonin, Dopamine, Oxytocin, & Endorphin Levels
- By: Loretta Graziano Breuning PhD
- Narrated by: Amanda Carlin
- Length: 6 hrs and 54 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Get ready to boost your happiness in just 45 days! Habits of a Happy Brain shows you how to retrain your brain to turn on the chemicals that make you happy. Each minute offers simple activities that help you understand the roles of your "happy chemicals" - serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphin. You'll also learn how to build new habits by rerouting the electricity in your brain to flow down a new pathway, making it even easier to trigger these happy chemicals and increase feelings of satisfaction when you need them most.
-
-
Could not make it through
- By Amazon Customer on 03-19-18
Publisher's Summary
Instant New York Times and Los Angeles Times Best Seller
“Brilliant…riveting, scary, cogent, and cleverly argued.” (Beth Macy, author of Dopesick
As heard on Fresh Air)
This book is about pleasure. It’s also about pain. Most important, it’s about how to find the delicate balance between the two, and why now more than ever finding balance is essential. We’re living in a time of unprecedented access to high-reward, high-dopamine stimuli: drugs, food, news, gambling, shopping, gaming, texting, sexting, Facebooking, Instagramming, YouTubing, tweeting....
The increased numbers, variety, and potency is staggering. The smartphone is the modern-day hypodermic needle, delivering digital dopamine 24/7 for a wired generation. As such we’ve all become vulnerable to compulsive overconsumption.
In Dopamine Nation, Dr. Anna Lembke, psychiatrist and author, explores the exciting new scientific discoveries that explain why the relentless pursuit of pleasure leads to pain…and what to do about it. Condensing complex neuroscience into easy-to-understand metaphors, Lembke illustrates how finding contentment and connectedness means keeping dopamine in check. The lived experiences of her patients are the gripping fabric of her narrative. Their riveting stories of suffering and redemption give us all hope for managing our consumption and transforming our lives. In essence, Dopamine Nation shows that the secret to finding balance is combining the science of desire with the wisdom of recovery.
Critic Reviews
"Anna Lembke deeply understands an experience I hear about often in the therapy room at the nexus between our modern addictions and our primal brains. Her stories of guiding people to find a healthy balance between pleasure and pain have the power to transform your life.” (Lori Gottlieb, “Dear Therapist” columnist at The Atlantic, New York Times best-selling author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone)
“Just when you thought you knew all you needed to know about the addiction crisis, along comes Dr. Anna Lembke with her second brilliant book on the topic - this one not about a drug but about the most powerful chemical of all: the dopamine that rules the pain and pleasure centers of our minds. In an era of overconsumption and instant gratification, Dopamine Nation explains the personal and societal price of being ruled by the next fix - and how to manage it. No matter what you might find yourself over-indulging in - from the internet to food to work to sex - you’ll find this book riveting, scary, cogent, and cleverly argued. Lembke weaves patient stories with research, in a voice that’s as empathetic as it is clear-eyed.” (Beth Macy, author of Washington Post Best Book of the Year, New York Times Notable Book of 2018, and best seller Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company That Addicted America)
“We all desire a break from our routines and those parts of life that upset us. What if, instead of trying to escape these things, we learn to turn toward them, to reach a peaceful harmony with our selves and the people we share our lives with? Lembke has written a book that radically changes the way we think about mental illness, pleasure, pain, reward, and stress. Turn toward it. You’ll be happy you did.” (Daniel Levitin, New York Times best-selling author of The Organized Mind and Successful Aging)
"Explore[s] the dichotomy between seeking a readily accessible hit of dopamine - from our phones, gambling, or a bag of Fritos - and maintaining healthy, productive, stable lives.” (The New York Times, Inside the Best-Seller List)
Featured Article: The Audible Essentials—Top 100 Well-Being Audiobooks
We assembled our editors, scoured listener reviews, polled our most-trusted colleagues, and listened our ears off to bring you this list of 100 must-listen well-being titles on Audible. Whether you’re looking to get organized, stay motivated, find creative inspiration, or relieve stress, these audiobooks and podcasts are packed with insights from self-development and wellness experts to help you take the next step—or the first—in your personal journey.
More from the same
Author
Narrator
What listeners say about Dopamine Nation
Average Customer RatingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Chris
- 09-02-21
Interesting but feels incomplete
Dopamine Nation has a good balance of science and practical advice illustrated with interesting clinical anecdotes attempting to provide a picture of addictive behavior in modern society, I don't think it makes the best case for the proposition that "age of indulgence" behaviors are addictive in the same way as well-established addictive behaviors. Also, the plan of how to address this proposed problem is incomplete and it ends up presenting as doom-saying with very little in the way of solutions.
The connection between the well-accepted addictive behaviors which the anecdotes concern and the modern behaviors which are potentially addictive "age of indulgence" behaviors is a bit tenuous. We have really great stories of the recovery of a sex addict and two drug addicts, as well as the author's own short-live compulsive reading of romance novels. The romance novel thing illustrates how ostensibly mundane things are like addictions or potentially addictive. But, I think the book would have been helped by an anecdote of someone who has really suffered negative consequences due to video game addiction or social media addiction would have lent credibility to this idea. I'm still pretty unconvinced that the "age of indulgence" addictions are really that analogous to drug or sex addiction.
It would appear that the state of the science doesn't provide a complete recipe for recovery from addictive behavior and Dr. Lembke's obviously not to blame for that. But, to be complete, the book really needs anecdotal information and advice to fill-in the how recovery works gap. Instead, there's lengthy, detailed exploration of unconnected or contradictory ideas that ultimately don't go anywhere. For instance, the science indicates many people don't need the strictness of the 12-step model, but the 12-step model is strict to discourage free-riders to the benefit of the 12-step programs. But, that doesn't help recovery, so why would the reader care about the institutional advantage of 12-step to the disadvantage of addicts? Another example, ice baths or other pain-based quasi-ascetic practices may be useful as a treatment for addiction, but maybe they are also addictive actually. What does the reader do with that uncertain stance? And then, the exploration of recovery sort of peters out and many of the stories of the addicts don't really end conclusively with a point.
Having said all that, I don't see many books exploring these ideas and this is a decent book. I waffled on a 3 or a 4 for overall, as well as a 4 or 5 for story. The author's voice is real nice and I liked her narration.
37 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- D. Sooley
- 08-30-21
Very informative and comprehensive
I got this after hearing Lembke on Rich Roll. As an AA "old timer" I was curious to see how in depth she goes into the entire concept of 'recovery' in a world where quick fixes of dopamine are ubiquitous.
Anna is a very good speaker IMJ and the narration is excellent.
I can say that I did not 100% agree with everything presented here, but the self-imposed 'fences' and the like that addicts put up in order to try to wrestle control are interesting.
The basic premise is that pain and pleasure exists along the same neural pathway...so that too much of one will make the other stronger in a natural effort to stay in balance. I can definitely relate to that from my own experiences.
34 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Eric Appleton
- 08-28-21
Unbelievably Candid — A Great Book
I heard about this book on Dr. Andrew Huberman’s podcast last week. I was eager to read the book after Dr. Huberman’s conversation with Dr. Lembke. The book absolutely exceeded my expectations. For starters, the book is a quick read and/or listen— I did a bit of both on this one. Dopamine Nation is full of valuable scientific and medical content (at least for a layperson), which is explained in a clear and concise manner. Valuable context is also given with the use of various real world examples. The author does an outstanding job of blending her personal experiences as a physician with the overwhelming, and in some cases unimaginable, trials of her patients. The author’s confessions about her personal failings, mistakes, feelings, and challenges are incredibly forthcoming and utterly refreshing. To see such an accomplished and credentialed person, who is an active professional in the medical field and academia, candidly share her experiences for the benefit of readers is almost unheard of lately. Few in such esteemed positions would have the courage to be so vulnerable. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in health and wellness—particularly brain health.
25 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Waman S Mills
- 08-27-21
exceptional
I enjoyed every chapter of this book in a way I have never felt I could when trying to understand the pain of my addiction. It is hard to find a more informative and thought-provoking publication that also helps reinforce and re-think my own experiences. Thank you.
19 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Evan L Englund
- 08-29-21
It's alright, but author has issues.
Okay, there's some genuinely good information in here. It could be covered just as well in a book half as long though.
The other half is the author digressing into anecdotes.
Throughout, WAY too many needless and questionable inserts of author's bizarre politics.
Narrator's condescending tone makes them simply ear splitting.
If it were free, might be a time waster.
Wouldn't pay money for it.
17 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- misty
- 08-25-21
Wow! Great book
Fantastic! Great book from start to finish. It was both interesting and also practical. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to change any addictive habit/behavior. I already started by deleting several apps on my phone.
15 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Bkid
- 08-25-21
Fascinating, honest and an eye opener
Thank you Dr. Lembke,
Your book has given a name to symptoms I was unaware existed bringing clarity to the world we live in. I feel better prepared to help myself and help others as we navigate through emotions and behaviors in our Dopamine Nation. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
14 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Mar
- 08-25-21
Great listen, push thru the 1st chapter & u won't
You wont regret it.
Thoughtfully written & provides many perspectives.
Helped withmy current addiction.
13 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- shubham
- 08-30-21
Beautiful, subtle, powerful!!
Absolutely loved the narration, content and the authenticity of the author. The stories shared are amazing. So much so that at times I kept getting pulled towards wanting the author to finish a recovery story instead of building to a lesson or an insight, further deepening it with another branch of a recovery story. And everytime I noticed I was missing the lesson for the curiosity of the story. Beautifully written, heartfelt authentic work.
All stories do come to a closure by the end. Had me tearing up in the parts of the book. The courage of the author and the stories moved me and the insights are amazing . Highly recommended!
10 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Josephine Lefeburre
- 09-03-21
Amazing!!!
I devoured the book over three evening walks. scientific and personal, intimate and open. vulnerable and raw. And I allowed me to step I to foreign worlds of other people and yet with a self recognition. This book will make waves because it allows people to recognize themselves in the book; Just like the first step in healing is recognizing and admitting to the problem. The piece on telling the truth and how we all lie a little was very eye opening. Fantastic writing. Thank you, Dr. Lembke.
9 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Chris Fox
- 01-12-23
Pray it away!
I was on board with this book until the author suggested praying away addiction and began advertising particular brand name medication as a cure for addiction. How bizarre.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Mrs J.
- 01-20-22
Difficult subject introduced with compassion
There is a sacredness to this book, an undertone of grace and undeniable compassion to the worse afflicted with the greatest disease of our times, addiction. Anna is soft and tender, empathetic and knowledgeable, she presented such a difficult subject in an unbelievable palatable manner. She took us in, broke us down, presented the issue and left us with some soothing balm. What a writer! I doubt anyone could do justice to this difficult subject as Anna did. I will wholeheartedly recommend this book to every single person, but a word of warning, be prepared to meet the real you including those parts that makes you go limp.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Hamza Luxmykanthan
- 12-17-21
Decent introduction to addictions.
It's a good listen. had some good takeaways at the end.
Some of the stories were painful and hilarious. I recommend smart recovery if anyone is looking to get into free group support program.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Amazon Customer
- 10-18-21
Great listen.
This was a very interesting and informative book. I got a lot out of it.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- SV
- 10-11-21
Outstanding
One of the most interesting books I've read recently. Its way of blending personal stories with scientific evidence was especially effective. And the tone of reading was just right. I'd recommend without hesitation.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- monty2012
- 10-01-21
Everyone needs to read this
You don’t have to consider yourself an addict to understand the value and important of this book. In our modern world, everyone needs to read this. It is groundbreaking.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Amazon Customer
- 09-26-21
Massively thought provoking
This book sheds light on our work of over consumption and contains excellent case studies to help us as the reader reflect on our own experience. The author also shares her own experiences with a refreshing candour. I highly recommend this book.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- WJ CARCARY
- 09-20-21
Exceptional
I really enjoyed this. The personal stories demonstrated and helped to explain the concepts within the book very well. I will listen to this again for certain.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Anonymous User
- 09-05-21
Excellent & thought provoking
Excellent book, I was gripped.
I learnt new information/facts/studies about addiction, dopamine & recovery that I didn’t already know which was very compelling & motivating. Plus the case studies of her real patients and their experiences was a brilliant way to bring the topics to life and made it more engaging and relatable.
I have an addiction to screens which I have tried to overcome for years and this gave me fresh hope & approach.
Thank you
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Mohamed
- 09-05-21
Fascinating book !
This book is about both pleasure and pain. I have always looked for sources to understand how pain works and stumbled upon this book originally to read about depression. As you listen to chapter after the other you start understanding the construct of the hormonal balancing tool in the brain, habits that may be helpful as well as some interesting real life stories that support the concept so it makes more sense than just reading theory.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Annisa Nye
- 12-10-21
Timeless (so long as we are conscious, carbon entities)
Anna’s reading really adds an intimate and authentic tone, that is so necessary for subjects such as this (as most of the readers are monotonous and give a rather eerily disconnected feel). She describes the stories so eloquently and really gives myself a dopamine hit whereby I crave to listen to it again when I’m not - no pun intended. I cannot begin to express how thorough she is on all the different aspects of dopamine - from the underlying biology, evolutionary origins, the impacts of deficient on the individual and the potential implications of dopamine deficits on society as a whole. Anna has truly endowed me with a paradigm shift, by shining light on the underlying mechanisms that govern why people do what they do just - based a slight shift in our neurochemical homeostasis, that is currently being challenged in an abundant world.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Anonymous User
- 09-05-21
Great book on Dopamine!
I finished this book faster than any book I've ever had on audible, not even joking! I have spread the word already to family and friends about how good this is. It starts off quite unusually but that's what hooks you and then it gets better and better! I heard the author, Dr Anna Lembke, speaking about this on radio station triple j while I was reading it. This made me love it even more because I could hear how genuine and caring the author is. I strongly recommend!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Steve
- 08-31-21
Exceptional
This is an exceptional book for so many reasons. I heard the podcast with Andrew Huberman and pre-ordered immediately. I could tell from that interview, that there was something very special about both Anna, and this book. Andrew knew what he was talking about when he recommended it.
It is a must-read for everyone that knows they have an unhelpful behaviour or habit, and for those that think they don't have any unhelpful behaviours.
Thank you so much Anna for what you have produced. It is brilliant.
Steve.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- david
- 08-27-21
Fascinating, Informative, Helpful, Shocking.
Some disclaimers to this review.
1. I had only peripheral knowledge of dopamine, psychology and brain chemistry before reading this book.
2. I'm a recovering addict
Firstly the "Shocking" as this is how the book begins in Chapter 1. Anna relates the experience of a man with sex addiction, which sets the stage for a couple of points, namely that: 1. Addiction to a behaviour can become shockingly dark, destructive and with time; ever more-so, and 2. This man's experience could be any of us. Perhaps for me that realisation was more shocking than the behaviour described, as I myself struggled with pornography addiction. Even still I was so disconcerted by his experience I struggled to get through the first chapter and considered not listening to the rest. If you can make it through this stage setter, its absolutely worth it.
Fascinating: to understand the connection between pleasure and pain in Chapters 2 and 3; how the body attempts to achieve homeostasis between the two, and how addiction connects to create a feedback loop between them. As someone who has dealt with addiction, I can immediately connect different parts of this process to different phases of my addictive behaviours.
Informative: I found the discussion of the effects of prescription drugs on addiction very informative and sobering. Anna plainly discusses the benefits an drawbacks in an empathetic way. She shares her knowledge of the biochemistry of clinical pharmacology and also practical experience of what short term and long term effects prescription drugs have on the brain, and also the cycle of addiction.
Helpful: Anna's review of pain, radical honesty, and prosocial shame in Part 3 reinforced some home truths and conventional /theological wisdom for me, but backed with her clinical approach, she explains the mechanisms behind why that wisdom works to avoid relapse into addiction. I felt greatly motivated to put these important concepts into practice in my life after listening, which I think may be Anna's greatest success with this book.
As a note on Anna herself, she sounds like a friend we'd all like to have, and is a lovely companion for 6 hours. As a man of faith, I was pleasantly surprised that Anna treats the topic of faith and religion elegantly, reasonably and with compassion (both for its successes and failures). As a man also of science, I was quite satisfied with her explanations of various behavioural and biological processes, and the studies that underpin our present understanding. I can't state enough how much I appreciated the intellectual honesty that governed the communication of scientific concepts in Anna's book. When she was being simplistic in an explanation, she made it plain. When she made certain statements regarding behavioural theories, she elucidated on the origins of that understanding, rather than stating it as a matter of fact. When she made conclusions that were not based on scientific studies (or lacked extensive support from studies), or were based on personal observation through her career, she made it plain.
Perhaps those with training and knowledge in brain chemistry or behavioural psychology may not find the book quite as enjoyable or profound. However from my perspective as a novice in these areas, while having personal experience of addiction, it was time and credit very well spent. Thank you Anna, for all the effort you've put in to this book.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story

- Sara
- 08-25-21
Highly recommend to absolutely anyone!
This book hit the trifecta - great writing style, informative and useful information and enjoyable emotional stories.
People who viewed this also viewed...
-
The Molecule of More
- How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity - And Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race
- By: Daniel Z. Lieberman MD, Michael E. Long
- Narrated by: Tom Parks
- Length: 8 hrs and 13 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In The Molecule of More: How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity—and will Determine the Fate of the Human Race, George Washington University professor and psychiatrist Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, and Georgetown University lecturer Michael E. Long present a potentially life-changing proposal: Much of human life has an unconsidered component that explains an array of behaviors previously thought to be unrelated, including why winners cheat, why geniuses often suffer with mental illness, why nearly all diets fail, and more.
-
-
Did you know conservatives have more orgasms?
- By Josh on 10-21-20
By: Daniel Z. Lieberman MD, and others
-
Why We Sleep
- Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams
- By: Matthew Walker
- Narrated by: Steve West
- Length: 13 hrs and 52 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Sleep is one of the most important but least understood aspects of our life, wellness, and longevity. Until very recently, science had no answer to the question of why we sleep, or what good it served, or why we suffer such devastating health consequences when we don't sleep. Compared to the other basic drives in life - eating, drinking, and reproducing - the purpose of sleep remained elusive.
-
-
I recommend this to EVERYONE
- By meggiemine on 12-11-17
By: Matthew Walker
-
Breath
- The New Science of a Lost Art
- By: James Nestor
- Narrated by: James Nestor
- Length: 7 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
There is nothing more essential to our health and well-being than breathing. Yet, as a species, humans have lost the ability to breathe correctly, with grave consequences. Journalist James Nestor travels the world to figure out what went wrong and how to fix it. The answers aren’t found in pulmonology labs, as we might expect, but in the muddy digs of ancient burial sites, secret Soviet facilities, New Jersey choir schools, and the smoggy streets of São Paulo. Nestor tracks down men and women exploring the hidden science behind ancient breathing practices.
-
-
Does NOT coincide with Book text
- By FamAzz on 07-13-20
By: James Nestor
-
Productivity Series, Books 1-4
- Dopamine Detox, Immediate Action, Powerful Focus, Strategic Mindset
- By: Thibaut Meurisse
- Narrated by: Joshua Alexander
- Length: 4 hrs and 17 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Do you keep procrastinating? Do you struggle to stay focused long enough to achieve success? Or, do you feel overwhelmed and unable to find the most effective task to focus on? If so, this Productivity Series Boxset is for you! The Productivity Series Boxset guides you on a three-to-four-week journey to skyrocket your productivity. With tips, tools, and daily exercises, you will gain clarity on your goals and be fully equipped to complete your tasks.
By: Thibaut Meurisse
-
Dopamine Detox
- A Step-by-Step Guide to Overcome Addictions, Break Bad Habits, and Stop Obsessive Thoughts (Mental Wellness, Book 1)
- By: Linda Hill
- Narrated by: Alene Sorensen
- Length: 3 hrs and 9 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Do you feel like you need something, all the time? Does your brain run on stimulation, quick satisfaction, and immediate gratification? You’re most likely one of many experiencing an issue that has slowly wrapped its hands around the throat of modern society at large—and that is dopamine addiction. In a world where a laugh and a cry are both a click away at any given moment, we’ve grown accustomed to getting what we want, right when we want it.The effect that repeated instant gratification has on brain chemistry is significant, and harmful.
-
-
The key to success is literally using DND button
- By Shan_dee87 on 09-02-22
By: Linda Hill
-
The Comfort Crisis
- Embrace Discomfort to Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self
- By: Michael Easter
- Narrated by: Michael Easter
- Length: 8 hrs and 52 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In many ways, we’re more comfortable than ever before. But could our sheltered, temperature-controlled, overfed, underchallenged lives actually be the leading cause of many our most urgent physical and mental health issues? In this gripping investigation, award-winning journalist Michael Easter seeks out off-the-grid visionaries, disruptive genius researchers, and mind-body conditioning trailblazers who are unlocking the life-enhancing secrets of a counterintuitive solution: discomfort.
-
-
beyond expectations
- By CassieM on 06-03-21
By: Michael Easter
-
The Molecule of More
- How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity - And Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race
- By: Daniel Z. Lieberman MD, Michael E. Long
- Narrated by: Tom Parks
- Length: 8 hrs and 13 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
In The Molecule of More: How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity—and will Determine the Fate of the Human Race, George Washington University professor and psychiatrist Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, and Georgetown University lecturer Michael E. Long present a potentially life-changing proposal: Much of human life has an unconsidered component that explains an array of behaviors previously thought to be unrelated, including why winners cheat, why geniuses often suffer with mental illness, why nearly all diets fail, and more.