

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

5 snips
Jul 27, 2021 • 3min
Episode 11: The captain can't complain
With privilege comes responsibility. And one of the responsibilities associated with occupying a privileged position of leadership is to bite one's lip. The captain can't complain (downward). Don't exacerbate the vulnerability associated with being in a dependent position by openly discussing worries, gripes, fears, and anxieties. The buck stops with you.

Jul 25, 2021 • 4min
Episode 10: How to confront a friend
Confronting a friend about his or her disrespectful or destructive behavior can be one of the hardest things to do in a relationship. Say nothing and you collude to enable the behavior. Come down too hard and you risk alienating the other. In this video, I discuss how to accomplish this difficult task by speaking from your own experience about the natural, emotional consequences of the other's actions.

Jul 23, 2021 • 4min
Episode 9: The fear of disappointment
Many people live with the constant, low-grade fear of disappointing others. While this can ultimately be resolved by overcoming the fear of abandonment, the fear of disappointment can be significantly reduced by examining its rational basis. In this video, we'll discuss justified (versus unjustified) disappointment, so that you can reduce your exposure to unnecessary suffering.

Jul 21, 2021 • 3min
Episode 8: Overcoming new problems
Facing unexpected challenges can be daunting. Learn how to gain confidence by looking at others who have tackled similar issues, like new parenting. Additionally, reflect on your past experiences to realize your ability to adapt and overcome difficulties. These insights help reshape your perspective on problem-solving.

Jul 19, 2021 • 3min
Episode 7: Redeeming the suffering of your past
Some people carry the wounds and scars of past sufferings with them for the remainder of their lives. As a result of their pain, their lives have been irrevocably altered, and certain dreams may now no longer come to pass. How do these people turn this significant potential liability into a personal asset? The suffering of our past is redeemed through loving participation in our present.

10 snips
Jul 17, 2021 • 4min
Episode 6: Don't play dress-up
Explore how fantasy narratives can derail important life decisions in this insightful discussion. It delves into the concept of 'playing dress-up' in relationships, particularly focusing on young men's struggles with self-awareness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding your true desires to make authentic choices in love and life. Tune in for a thought-provoking look at how clarity and self-knowledge can empower decision-making.

7 snips
Jul 15, 2021 • 4min
Episode 5: Follow the function
Exploration of why bad habits persist despite causing distress. Finding adaptive ways to perform the same function as your bad habit. Understanding the deeper emotional needs that maladaptive behaviors fulfill in individuals' lives.

6 snips
Jul 13, 2021 • 3min
Episode 4: How over what
Learn about the importance of focusing on 'how' over 'what' in relationships to stand out and strengthen connections. Everyone is unique and replaceable, so showing up in a distinctive way is crucial for building irreplaceable bonds.

8 snips
Jul 11, 2021 • 3min
Episode 3: Don't blow the whistle on yourself
In this episode, the podcast discusses the importance of focusing on playing the game of life, rather than worrying about breaking unwritten rules. They draw parallels to sports, highlighting the value of learning from mistakes and fouling appropriately for personal and professional growth.

4 snips
Jul 9, 2021 • 3min
Episode 2: Everyone is unique and replaceable
Human relationships present a fascinating paradox: each person is entirely unique yet completely replaceable. This discussion unpacks how acknowledging both aspects can alter your perspective on connections. It explores the evolution of long-term relationships and examines emotional implications tied to this duality. By understanding these dynamics, you can manage relational insecurities and maintain balanced connections. Embrace the uniqueness of each person while recognizing the inevitability of change.


