
PsycHacks
Presented by Orion Taraban, Psy.D. PsycHacks provides listeners with a brief, thought-provoking episode several days a week on a variety of psychological topics, inspired by my clinical practice. The intention is for the core idea contained within each episode to inspire listeners to see something about themselves or their world in a slightly different light.
Latest episodes

6 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 13min
Episode 531: How I know what women want (their feelings don't matter)
Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on understanding women's desires through observed behavior rather than emotional expressions. The speaker challenges perceptions about gender roles, emphasizing that actions often reveal true intentions. Explore the complexities of self-perception and the struggle to confront personal truths. By prioritizing what people do over what they say, listeners are encouraged to question the authenticity of expressed feelings. Join the conversation to expand perspectives on this nuanced topic.

27 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 10min
Episode 530: All I want... (the problem with dating today)
High expectations in dating can lead to loneliness and dissatisfaction. The discussion humorously reveals how unrealistic partner criteria mirror the unlikelihood of landing the perfect job. Listeners are encouraged to rethink their relationship standards and recognize the beauty in imperfection. Anxiety and perfectionism often cloud judgment, creating barriers to meaningful connections. Ultimately, fostering realistic desires for relationships can lead to more fulfilling experiences with supportive partners.

8 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 15min
Episode 529: Stop short or go long (the two paths to a relationship)
Discover the intriguing dynamics that shape long-term relationships through the lens of stopping short versus going long. Explore how different environments, from small towns to bustling cities, influence romantic desires. Delve into personal growth and the value of diverse experiences in choosing partners. Unearth the emotional differences in relationship satisfaction and how pairing different approaches can lead to stability. This insightful discussion reveals the paths to achieving relationship success in today’s world.

23 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 12min
Episode 528: No one is coming to save you (you are the one you are waiting for)
Dive into the idea that no one is coming to save you, and the power lies entirely within yourself. Discover the importance of personal responsibility in shaping your life and experiences. Embrace radical accountability to break free from a victim mentality. Through compelling stories, learn how ownership of your choices can lead to transformative growth and emotional freedom. It's a call to action for anyone ready to take charge of their destiny and create the change they seek.

18 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 10min
Episode 527: The irresponsible man (the case against unmarried men)
This discussion dives into the stigmas surrounding unmarried men, challenging the notion that they are selfish and unfulfilled. It questions societal pressure to conform to traditional paths of success like marriage and parenthood. The host advocates for recognizing alternative routes to personal fulfillment. By redefining what success means, the conversation emphasizes making intentional life choices that lead to genuine meaning, rather than simply following conventional expectations.

6 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 13min
Episode 526: I did (why women are mean to men who like them)
Explore the intriguing dynamics of attraction as the speaker discusses why women can be unkind to men who show interest. Personal anecdotes from acting school illustrate how self-belief plays a crucial role in social interactions. The podcast dives into the psychological implications of perceived social status and its effect on relationships. Along the way, listeners are motivated to embrace self-awareness and resilience, reinforcing the idea that true confidence doesn't rely on external validation.

13 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 12min
Episode 525: Delusional women (understanding female entitlement)
The discussion highlights how women over 40 face unique challenges related to menopause and its effects on their dating lives. It dives into the unrealistic expectations many women hold about their romantic value, often shaped by media influences. The podcast contrasts these perceptions with the delusions of wealthier men, showcasing a double standard in romantic aspirations. A personal story illustrates the disconnect between self-image and the quest for extraordinary partners, revealing the pitfalls of such beliefs in the dating world.

21 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 13min
Episode 524: Some men need marriage (be all that you can be)
Explore the intriguing notion of how marriage may serve some men similarly to military life, providing necessary structure. Discover the significance of personal accountability and choice in determining one’s path. The discussion challenges conventional views on discipline and growth, stressing that not every man thrives under these societal frameworks. Learn about the duality of freedom versus stability in relationships, and recognize the importance of self-awareness in finding individual purpose.

42 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 12min
Episode 523: The plow horse (how marriage uses men)
The podcast delves into the complex dynamics of marriage, particularly from a man's perspective. It highlights how traditional roles can transform men into 'plow horses,' surrendering individuality for societal expectations. The pressures of being the provider are scrutinized, revealing how they can overshadow personal well-being. Additionally, it examines how women's views on men's leisure activities are often tied to the benefits they provide, shedding light on the economic and social implications of these roles.

17 snips
May 30, 2025 • 11min
Episode 522: The problem of now (the dirty garage)
Delve into the complexities of living in the present moment, where mindfulness is unpacked beyond its simplistic appeal. Discover the significance of facing unpleasant emotions as a marker of personal growth. Through the metaphor of a dirty garage, explore why we often avoid confronting our current realities. Understand how resisting the present can lead to a cycle of inaction. This discussion challenges the notion that simply being present will magically resolve your troubles.