
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

Sep 16, 2024 • 9min
Episode 464: Dating off the beaten path (what to do if you are unconventional)
Unconventional daters face unique challenges that can be disheartening. Traditional spaces often fail to foster genuine connections. Embracing individuality is crucial; seeking out niche environments aligned with personal values is key. Stepping away from mainstream options opens the door to deeper relationships, even if it means meeting fewer people. By pursuing passions and interests, one can attract like-minded individuals and build meaningful connections off the beaten path.

Sep 13, 2024 • 10min
Episode 463: The privilege of losing (paying the cost of winning)
Discover the surprising benefits of losing in the pursuit of success. Many people cling to the comforts of failure, which can hinder their growth. Explore how emotional support often comes from losing and how success can lead to isolation. Delve into the paradox of winning, where achieving goals might not bring the happiness expected. Embracing the discomfort of loss can be key to unlocking true potential. Join the conversation on the hidden costs of winning and the privileges of losing.

Sep 9, 2024 • 10min
Episode 462: Dating after 50 (challenges and opportunities)
Dating after 50 offers a unique landscape of opportunities and challenges. Many seek genuine emotional connections without the pressure of marriage or kids. This phase emphasizes self-awareness and emotional wisdom, allowing for authentic relationships. However, past wounds can complicate new connections. Communication and emotional intelligence become essential in navigating this complex dating scene. It’s a journey of personal growth and rediscovery, highlighting both the freedom and emotional intricacies of dating later in life.

Sep 6, 2024 • 10min
Episode 461: Write your own invitation (how to make friends as an adult man)
Discover the art of crafting your own invitations to meaningful friendships as an adult man. Learn how to present yourself attractively and create personal value that draws in influential individuals. Explore the vital role of male friendships in combating loneliness and enhancing overall well-being. Navigate the unique challenges men face in forming connections, focusing on the importance of deeper emotional ties over mere value calculations. Transform your social life by proactively building relationships that truly matter.

9 snips
Sep 2, 2024 • 10min
Episode 460: Don't fight to keep people (you lose when you win)
Fighting to keep people in your life often leads to unstable relationships. Embracing open exits can foster healthier connections and personal growth. Establishing boundaries is crucial, allowing you to let go of unfulfilling ties. Understanding that relationships thrive on mutual care can free you from unhealthy dynamics. Ultimately, it's about recognizing when to step back and allowing others the choice to return, rather than chasing after them.

Aug 30, 2024 • 14min
Episode 459: Saying the quiet part loud (emperors must wear clothes)
The podcast dives deep into the unspoken rules of communication in relationships. It highlights the reluctance to discuss the essential transactions that govern both professional and sexual connections. Listeners are encouraged to confront these dynamics to improve their interactions. Undoubtedly, the discussion ignites a new perspective on how perceptions shape relationship satisfaction. Engaging anecdotes and insights prompt self-reflection, paving the way for more open dialogues about what truly drives our relationships.

Aug 26, 2024 • 11min
Episode 458: Why dating advice is terrible (half right is all wrong)
Conventional dating advice often misses the mark by ignoring economic and psychological factors. The discussion critiques popular notions, shedding light on the complexities of the sexual marketplace. It emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and the role of attractiveness in dating dynamics. Inner qualities like compatibility are highlighted, yet the advantages of being physically appealing are acknowledged. A nuanced approach offers practical strategies for navigating modern relationships more effectively.

Aug 23, 2024 • 11min
Episode 457: How to lead your woman (lessons from the front)
Explore how confident male leadership can enhance romantic relationships. Discover the importance of respect and inspiration over authority, challenging traditional gender roles. The dynamics of trust and personal growth take center stage, encouraging a deeper understanding of each partner's strengths. Leadership in love is compared to coaching a team, emphasizing collaboration and timing for mutual attraction. Unpack the essence of guiding your partner with wisdom and capability while fostering connection.

5 snips
Aug 19, 2024 • 10min
Episode 456: Why people can't find love (understanding what you're searching for)
Love is often mistaken for external validation, leading many to miss its true essence. The discussion highlights the need for selflessness and nurturing love from within. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the paradox of love, balancing sacrifice with mutual gratification. Personal growth is emphasized as a crucial aspect of navigating the challenges of caregiving in relationships. Ultimately, it reveals why understanding what one truly seeks in love is key to finding it.

Aug 16, 2024 • 9min
Episode 455: How to date without going crazy (walking the razor's edge)
Modern dating can often feel overwhelming. The discussion emphasizes finding balance by holding high hopes while maintaining low expectations. This approach encourages individuals to live in the moment and take small, manageable steps. Engaging fully in the present not only reduces disappointment but also enhances attractiveness. Tips for navigating the dating landscape with mental clarity and confidence are shared, making the dating experience less frustrating and more enjoyable.
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