

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 18, 2024 • 11min
Episode 473: Why beautiful women are nuts (a co-created problem)
The conversation uncovers why beauty and mental instability often intertwine, exploring the societal pressures on attractive women. Misaligned perceptions lead to flawed relationship dynamics as men frequently prioritize desire over honesty. The discussion draws intriguing parallels between workplace interactions and romantic relationships, emphasizing adaptability for success. It also tackles the challenges of truth-telling, revealing how flattering dishonesty creates a disconnect for beautiful women, unlike their less attractive counterparts who receive more substantial feedback.

Oct 14, 2024 • 10min
Episode 472: Why successful men are jerks (no one wants to do the laundry)
Explore why success often turns men into jerks as they neglect romance in favor of personal gains. The discussion reveals how societal pressures and achievements influence men's relationship dynamics. Successful men may see romantic gestures as burdens, leading to emotional disconnects. The podcast emphasizes the importance of emotional connections, contrasting the romantic behaviors of successful versus unsuccessful men. It's a deep dive into how success can distort romantic expectations and interactions.

10 snips
Oct 11, 2024 • 9min
Episode 471: The lens of attraction (why you can't do anything right)
Discover the fascinating concept of the lens of attraction and how it shapes women's perceptions of men. You'll learn that success in romance isn't about following the 'right' steps, but rather keeping attraction levels high. The dynamics of attraction are ever-evolving; what once drew someone in can fade over time. Emphasizing self-improvement and understanding attraction can help sustain fulfilling relationships. Dive into how perception and attraction play crucial roles in romance!

Oct 7, 2024 • 9min
Episode 470: Being right doesn't matter (winning the battle to lose the war)
Conflict in relationships often stems from the misconception that being right is what matters. The discussion dives into the dynamics of games and metagames, emphasizing adaptability and empathy as vital tools for men. Real understanding leads to better interactions with women. If you want to avoid getting metaphorically scratched, learning to navigate these emotional complexities is essential. It's not just about winning the argument; it's about fostering deeper connections.

6 snips
Oct 4, 2024 • 10min
Episode 469: Sexless marriage (a breach of contract)
Sexless marriages are often misunderstood but are surprisingly common. The discussion centers on the idea that sexual withdrawal in monogamous relationships can be seen as a form of cheating. It highlights the emotional turmoil faced by partners when intimacy fades. The podcast also frames these relationships as contractual agreements, stressing the importance of accountability and communication. It challenges traditional notions of fidelity, suggesting that even in flawed situations, aspects of the relationship can still hold value.

Sep 30, 2024 • 11min
Episode 468: A PhD in men (how to get what you want from a man)
Dive into the intriguing world of understanding men! This discussion emphasizes how women can take charge by learning the psychology behind male behavior. Explore the controversial realm of pickup artistry and the tricks men use to attract women. Discover the contrasting expectations of commitment and how these dynamics can be simplified. Plus, learn practical strategies for women to secure men’s interest and the importance of taking personal responsibility for relationship goals. Knowledge is power!

Sep 27, 2024 • 13min
Episode 467: The coin of the realm (give people what they want)
The discussion opens with an intriguing parable about taxes, hinting at deeper life themes. It dives into relationship dynamics, emphasizing how partners must recognize and act on each other's unique desires. A humorous critique of flawed tax arguments follows, illustrating societal rules on economic responsibility. Finally, the conversation explores communication in romantic relationships, highlighting common misunderstandings between genders that hinder connection and satisfaction.

4 snips
Sep 23, 2024 • 10min
Episode 466: A horse in the rain (how to pass through suffering)
Explore the nature of suffering and how not all of it is unnecessary. Discover the lesson from a horse in the rain, emphasizing acceptance over despair. Learn about the importance of radical acceptance and patience during tough times. The metaphor of bison facing storms illustrates how confronting challenges directly can reduce suffering. By strategically surrendering to the present discomfort, we open ourselves to future opportunities for change.

Sep 20, 2024 • 11min
Episode 465: The cherry on top (women are luxury goods)
Explore the sweet dynamics of relationships as a speaker compares women to luxurious cherries on a sundae. Discover how societal views have shifted, transforming partners from essentials to enhancements in modern dating. The discussion emphasizes reassessing expectations and finding happiness within oneself, rather than relying solely on relationships for fulfillment. Dive into a thought-provoking analysis of gender roles and the emotional benefits that come from shared experiences, urging a redefinition of personal relationship values.

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.