Why do we drink, even when it harms us? Priyanka and Hari explore our complicated relationship with alcohol, from first drinks to long term habits. Colorectal surgeon and author Dr. Charles Knowles joins them to discuss the research behind his book, Why We Drink Too Much. They examine how alcohol hijacks the brain’s reward system, why some people are more vulnerable to dependency, and the long overlooked risks of moderate drinking. The conversation spans dating culture, marketing myths, and mental health. Dr. Knowles also shares his own journey to sobriety and evidence based approaches to changing drinking behavior, including self compassion, community, and education. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.