DiscoverThe Psychology of RelationshipsWhy We Love: What Science Tells Us About The Most Deeply Human Experience Of Our Lives w/ Dr. Anna Machin
Why We Love: What Science Tells Us About The Most Deeply Human Experience Of Our Lives w/ Dr. Anna Machin

Why We Love: What Science Tells Us About The Most Deeply Human Experience Of Our Lives w/ Dr. Anna Machin

Update: 2025-11-27
Share

Description

When love feels hard, it’s easy to forget why we chose it in the first place. But remembering why we love—and what drives our need for connection—is often what helps us stay grounded. In this episode, Julie and Yue sit down with evolutionary anthropologist Dr. Anna Machin to explore what biology, psychology, and evolution can teach us about the most deeply human experience we have. Drawing from two decades of research, Dr. Machin reveals how our earliest attachments, neurochemical patterns, and evolutionary instincts shape how we love, who we choose, and why connection is so essential to our wellbeing. 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How Evolution and Early Attachment Form Your Blueprint for Love

How Brain Chemistry Drives Attraction, Bonding, and Long-Term Connection

How Different Forms of Love—Romantic, Familial, Queer, Platonic, Polyamorous—Function in the Brain

Why Love Can Feel Addictive—and the Psychology Behind Coercive or Unhealthy Dynamics

How to Make More Conscious, Intentional Choices in How You Love

Why Love Is the Single Most Important Factor in Human Health and Meaning


To learn more about Dr Anna Machin: follow @dr_amachin and visit: https://annamachin.com/



Want to feel more connected to your partner? Download Brick and get 10% off at https://www.getbrick.app/PORSHOW

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Comments 
loading
In Channel
00:00
00:00
1.0x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

Why We Love: What Science Tells Us About The Most Deeply Human Experience Of Our Lives w/ Dr. Anna Machin

Why We Love: What Science Tells Us About The Most Deeply Human Experience Of Our Lives w/ Dr. Anna Machin

Julie Krafchick & Yue Xu