

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

Oct 24, 2025 • 11min
Episode 564: Garden tools (how to capture male attention)
This discussion explores the concept of 'hoeish' behavior and its surprising effectiveness in capturing male attention. It dives into why attempts to change someone's core attraction often fail and how controlling tactics can backfire. Instead of trying to reform partners, men are encouraged to find women who naturally meet their preferences. The conversation also suggests ways to cultivate intimacy by starting with traditionally 'good' partners and exploring private dynamics. Self-reflection on attraction can lead to healthier relationship outcomes.

20 snips
Oct 20, 2025 • 11min
Episode 563: The prison planet (the nature of existence)
Delve into the thought-provoking concept of the prison planet, where unfreedom explains much of human suffering. Explore the idea that those in power often act as bullies rather than leaders. Discover how our past actions contribute to our current state of incarceration and consider Earth as a possible hell or purgatory. Unpack the nature of karma, interpreting it as a causal chain rather than literal past lives. Finally, find out how remembering and understanding causality can lead to personal liberation.

9 snips
Oct 17, 2025 • 11min
Episode 562: Bait your hook (how will you be used?)
In this discussion, the metaphor of fishing captures the art of dating and relationships. Presenting attractive 'bait' is essential, as unappealing approaches repel potential partners. It's revealed that attraction can sometimes be transactional, yet it opens useful doors. Expanding your reach and appealing to others’ preferences can increase your chances of finding suitable partners. Emphasizing kindness may not always attract initial interest. Ultimately, playing to your strengths while navigating the dating pool is crucial to avoid being exploited.

16 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 10min
Episode 561: The spark (dating for feels)
Explore the elusive concept of 'the spark' in dating, defined as limerence, and learn why it’s often prioritized. Discover how childhood attachment templates influence romantic impulses and the importance of secure attachment for reliable connections. Uncover the dangers of following feelings blindly and the potential for dysfunctional matches, alongside practical advice on evaluating parental relationships. Remember, real affection grows slowly, so patience is key in finding lasting love.

6 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 10min
Episode 560: Dread (understanding evil)
Explore the concept of dread as an emotional response to mortality and how its repression leads to persistent unease. Discover harmful avoidance strategies like drugs and excessive work that people use to escape this feeling. Learn about 'foreclosure,' where impulsive choices arise from the need to eliminate uncertainty. Delve into the darker aspects of human instinct tied to destruction and death. Finally, find practical approaches like shadow work and embracing absurdity to courageously coexist with our inevitable fate.

24 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 12min
Episode 559: She can cry (how to deal with an emotional woman)
Discover the nuances of emotional autonomy as men learn that women have the right to express their feelings without needing to be fixed. Explore why a woman's tears can trigger discomfort in men and how rewarding such emotions may reinforce future crying. Silence can often be the best response, allowing emotional self-regulation. Orion introduces 'dad sense' to help determine when to intervene or simply provide reassurance. Reflecting on our reactions to tears offers a pathway for personal growth and understanding in relationships.

14 snips
Oct 3, 2025 • 11min
Episode 558: You are a parking space (how to suffer less)
Explore how inappropriate attachment fuels unnecessary suffering and leads to narcissistic injury. Discover the liberating idea that you are like a parking space, a container for temporary possessions rather than defined by them. Learn about the dangers of identifying with roles, money, and even your own body. Embrace the concept of the self as empty space to alleviate pain and expand your capacity to hold life’s experiences without getting lost in them. This metaphor offers a fresh perspective on identity and suffering.

16 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 11min
Episode 557: The look (speak with your eyes)
Unleash the power of non-verbal communication in dating! Explore how men can signal sexual intent using 'the look'—a technique that creates tension without coming off as creepy. Understand why early communication is crucial and the subjective nature of creepiness. Learn effective eye contact strategies and how to read reactions. Plus, practical tips on striking a balance between confidence and respect. It's all about connecting without words and honing your flirtation skills in a respectful way!

14 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 8min
Episode 556: The art of surrender (how to let go)
Explore the transformative art of surrender as a way to navigate life's uncertainties. Learn about the power of accepting powerlessness and the peace it can bring. A silent mindfulness walk is suggested to highlight the beauty of life’s uncontrollable processes. Delve into the wisdom of the serenity prayer and how acceptance, courage, and wisdom guide us through challenges. Discover why practicing surrender in calm times prepares us for future turmoil, making us more resilient when the unexpected strikes.

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.


