

PsycHacks
Orion Taraban
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 11min
Episode 555: AI relationships (the future of dating)
The discussion dives into the rise of AI companions as a revolutionary force in dating, predicting they'll be mainstream by the decade's end. The host argues that most relational needs are psychological, suggesting AI could fulfill these better than subpar human connections. Concerns about stigma toward early adopters and moral double standards are also explored. Ultimately, it’s a thought-provoking look at how technology may reorganize the landscape of romantic relationships.

7 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 8min
Episode 554: Becoming a real woman (the Scarlett effect)
Explore the intriguing concept of the Scarlett Effect, where hardship is essential for a woman's journey to true humanity. The discussion draws parallels between Pinocchio's trials and the transformative arc of Scarlett O'Hara. Learn how societal privileges can keep women in a state of immaturity. Discover the lessons that Scarlett's losses teach about compassion, responsibility, and growth through suffering. This thought-provoking conversation reshapes our understanding of what it means to become a real woman.

14 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 11min
Episode 553: The price of safety (the man or the bear)
Explore the fascinating dynamics of safety and civility in human interactions. Discover how respect plays a crucial role in maintaining personal security, especially among women. Engaging animal kingdom analogies reveal the power struggles in society. The discussion highlights how perceptions of individuals can shape safety, emphasizing the importance of respectful communication to foster better relationships. Unpack the hidden costs of seeking safety and the delicate balance required in everyday interactions.

19 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 11min
Episode 552: Don't chase (the power of attractiveness)
Exploring the advice against chasing in dating reveals a complex interplay of power dynamics in relationships. Attractiveness plays a crucial role, often determining who holds the upper hand. Personal development in areas like fitness and social skills can significantly enhance one’s appeal. The discussion highlights the shifting dating landscape for women in their 30s, urging them to reevaluate strategies. Finally, the balance of privilege and responsibility in romantic partnerships invites deeper reflection on power's dual nature.

13 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 13min
Episode 551: Why women get ghosted (they're not worth it)
The podcast delves into why some women get ghosted after intimate encounters. It reveals that many erroneously believe sex diminishes their long-term appeal, when in fact, it can enhance it. It discusses how perceived value affects relationship dynamics, suggesting that high expectations can deter potential partners. Listeners gain insights on navigating relationships confidently and creating positive dating experiences while understanding the psychological factors behind ghosting.

22 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 10min
Episode 550: Ask her out (the two bridges)
Discover how tackling difficult challenges can help overcome approach anxiety in romantic situations. Using Samwise Gamgee's journey as a metaphor, the conversation dives into how courage grows in adversity. The fascinating 'two bridges' study reveals how risk can spark emotional attraction. Listeners are urged to face their fears, transforming nerve-wracking interactions into opportunities for personal growth and deeper connections.

7 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 10min
Episode 549: No one-night stands (how not to find your husband)
The podcast dives into the evolving dynamics of dating, challenging the stigma around one-night stands. It argues that initiating a sexual relationship quickly doesn’t preclude long-term commitment. Instead, it suggests that rigid rules about sex can complicate dating further. The conversation encourages women to reassess their strategies and perceptions of value in relationships, shedding light on how short-term encounters can lead to lasting bonds.

12 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 11min
Episode 548: Don't waste her time (how women set themselves up to fail)
The discussion dives into societal pressures on women in their 30s, emphasizing the need for patience in dating and career paths. It critiques the rush to achieve milestones, arguing that overextension can lead to failure. The importance of focus is highlighted, encouraging women to prioritize individual goals instead of juggling too many at once. Meaningful progress, both in relationships and careers, is portrayed as a journey that requires careful consideration and time.

10 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 13min
Episode 547: The core of respect (approaching the O word)
Discover why respect may be more crucial than love for men in relationships. The discussion highlights the often-overlooked connection between obedience and respect, suggesting that understanding this dynamic can lead to healthier partnerships. A cafe analogy illustrates the balance of authority and compliance in dating. Dive into the complexities of social norms and how empathy can transform relationship expectations, showing that genuine connection thrives on mutual respect and understanding.

12 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 11min
Episode 546: Getting vs. keeping (emotional labor in dating)
Delve into the dynamics of emotional labor in dating, where men and women play distinct yet crucial roles. The discussion reveals how the effort to secure a relationship often differs from the effort needed to maintain it. Learn why proactive engagement is essential and how raising your standards can lead to more fulfilling connections. Unpacking the costs of getting vs. keeping reveals important truths that everyone navigating dating should consider.