
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

11 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 11min
Episode 494: You are two men (how to accelerate your development)
Explore the fascinating duality of our selves – the Worldly Man who seeks ease and the Spiritual Man who thrives on challenges. Discover how balancing these aspects can accelerate personal development. Delve into the societal judgments arising from this interplay and learn to embrace both success and spiritual growth. Every challenge presents an opportunity for greater understanding and fulfillment. Join in on the journey of harmonizing these distinct yet connected sides of your life!

Dec 27, 2024 • 11min
Episode 493: Wrestling with the angel (you have to fight for your life)
Struggle is the cornerstone of valuable achievements. By wrestling with the metaphorical angel, we learn that true blessings demand our perseverance. Letting go of negativity is essential for nurturing love and personal growth. Confronting inner demons unveils deeper virtues like courage and peace. Ultimately, the fight for a meaningful life is not only necessary but profoundly rewarding.

Dec 23, 2024 • 10min
Episode 492: How to be a better person (the unexpected driver of kindness)
Explore the surprising link between personal abundance and kindness. Discover how prosperity influences a person's willingness to help others. Learn from intriguing studies, such as one involving seminary students, that highlight the impact of external pressures like time constraints on altruism. Ultimately, the discussion reveals that nurturing your own well-being can paradoxically enhance your capacity for genuine kindness.

Dec 20, 2024 • 12min
Episode 491: A feast of crumbs (how men get used)
Discover why many decent men find themselves in unsatisfying relationships. The concept of the 'Feast of Crumbs' highlights how minimal attention can be mistaken for genuine affection, leading to emotional pitfalls. Men often feel undervalued and may overvalue small gestures of kindness from women. As they navigate the shifting dynamics of attraction, this conversation sheds light on the pressures they face in seeking fulfillment and the importance of self-improvement to foster healthier connections.

6 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 10min
Episode 490: You never lose someone all at once (why it takes men so long to get over it)
Discover why men often take longer to heal from breakups compared to women. The podcast reveals that losing someone isn't an instantaneous event but a gradual process tied to emotional bonds. It discusses the importance of wishing your ex well for personal growth and healing. Additionally, it delves into men's unique coping mechanisms and emphasizes the need for early emotional expression, providing valuable resources for navigating grief in relationships.

Dec 13, 2024 • 12min
Episode 489: You can't get there the same way twice (success is a moving castle)
Success is a moving target, reflecting that the same path won’t lead to the same results anymore. The podcast delves into the necessity of adapting strategies in light of personal growth and changing circumstances. It challenges the notion of a one-size-fits-all formula for achievement, emphasizing the importance of individual journeys. Listeners will learn about developing versatile skills and honing observational awareness to successfully navigate the fluid landscape of success.

11 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 11min
Episode 488: Mother love vs. father love (understanding their strengths and liabilities)
Explore the fascinating contrasts between mother love and father love and their lasting impacts on emotional development. Unconditional maternal affection is essential, while the often conditional nature of father love shapes perceptions of competition and discipline. Discover how these dynamics influence adult relationships and the psychological challenges that can arise from parental absence. The discussion also highlights the potential for healing and encourages engagement with the insights shared.

17 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 15min
Episode 487: Test her (how to screen women)
Explore the critical need for men to screen potential partners before entering relationships. Discover the concept of 'emotional volatility' and how it compares to a 'touchy bomb.' Learn practical strategies to assess compatibility, like pre-date picture requests. Dive into the dynamics of gauging women's interest through conversational cues. This episode emphasizes recognizing red flags and understanding relationship intentions to avoid complex emotional situations.

Dec 2, 2024 • 9min
Episode 486: The beam in your own (you're not working hard enough)
Judging others often signals a lack of personal focus. Instead of criticizing, it's essential to prioritize self-improvement and personal growth. The discussion emphasizes the value of addressing our own weaknesses before evaluating others. By dedicating energy to our own success, we can shift from a mindset of competition to one of empowerment. This perspective not only strengthens our character but also enhances our overall well-being.

24 snips
Nov 29, 2024 • 12min
Episode 485: The two relationships (marriage does not get you love)
Relationships are more than just titles; they consist of a negotiated structure and an emotional bond. Understanding this dual nature clarifies confusion and frustration. Marriage doesn't automatically mean love, and vice versa. Prioritizing emotional connections over societal labels can lead to more profound and meaningful relationships. Genuine loyalty stems from authentic feelings, not merely contractual obligations.
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