logo
episode-header-image
About this episode

The Minimalists speak with clinical psychologist Orion Taraban about minimizing dating clutter to form more meaningful intimate relationships.

Discussed in this episode:

Any advice for dating again after the end of a long relationship? (2:08)

How do I avoid carrying past baggage into future relationships? (15:32)

Why does Dr. Taraban encourage his clients not to date? (26:49)

Does hookup culture make it harder to meet people who want a genuine connection? (35:03)

Do dating apps make it harder to commit to a relationship? (38:41)

How do I decide whether it’s time to move on from a difficult relationship? (40:43)

Are great relationships effortless, or do they take work to maintain? (46:39)

How can you tell whether a date will be worthwhile or a waste of time? (52:35)

Listener tip: How to minimize while unpacking after a trip. (56:40)

Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

Recorded at Earthing Studios.

Up next
Jul 7
498 | Nonsense
The Minimalists speak with Kapil Gupta about letting go of nonsense, the many ways humans waste their lives, what happens when you minimize ambition, and more. Discussed in this episode: What does it mean to “overcome the world”? (3:27) Why does Dr. Gupta have a disdain for smart ... Show More
54m 23s
Jun 30
497 | The Sacrifices
The Minimalists talk about the right amount of deprivation, sacrificing for others, obsession with books, education that aligns with minimalist principles, and more. Discussed in this episode: How much should I deprive myself for the sake of loving others? (2:05) When does it mak ... Show More
47m 13s
Jun 23
496 | Good Talk
The Minimalists talk about communicating with people who are unwilling to change their minds, the qualities of productive conversation, finding ways to be happy without knowing your purpose, a simple approach to getting divorced, the proper way to identify a narcissist, being a m ... Show More
40m 25s
Recommended Episodes
Jul 2024
83. How to feel hopeful while dating, even if you keep getting ghosted
If dating were easy, this podcast probably wouldn't exist. This episode is packed with reminders and mindset shifts to help you stay positive on your dating journey, even when you keep striking out. I discuss believing vs. hoping, checking our own expectations, and examining the ... Show More
33m 12s
Jan 2025
138. Dating Is Easier When You Master Self-Compassion (Here's How)
Whether you're dating or have a partner, we can't overlook the most important relationship you'll ever have: the one with YOU. In this episode, you'll learn how to practice self-acceptance and compassion, why I don't believe in "just loving yourself," and how this affects your da ... Show More
42m 53s
Aug 2024
The Dating Doctor: "Start Dating Like It's Your Job!", "Dating Apps Are Impacting Us More Than We Realise!"
If love feels like magic, then Dr Orion is here to tell the truths behind the illusionDr Orion Taraban is a psychologist, host of the podcast ‘PsycHacks’, and the author of the book, ‘The Value Of Others: Understanding the Economic Model of Relationships to Get (and Keep) More of ... Show More
2h 22m
Jul 2
303: How To Know If They Have Relationship Potential In Early Dating (Feat. Dr. Morgan Cutlip)
In this episode, Matthew sits down with Dr. Morgan Cutlip (@drmorgancutlip) to explore the real work of modern relationships. Whether you’re dating, married, or somewhere in between, this is a must-listen for anyone who wants to learn how to communicate their needs, set boundarie ... Show More
1h 14m
Dec 2024
260. The BEST dating advice for your 20s ft. Dateable podcast
When it comes to dating in our 20s, the entire experience seems like a bit of a maze and often leaves us questioning, is there a RIGHT way to be dating in our 20s? Should I be playing it casual, and just having fun, prioritise being single and getting to know myself, only dating ... Show More
47m 38s
Apr 2
290: The 3 Boxes Men Put Women In (And How to Get Out of Them)
In this episode, Matthew, Stephen, and Audrey dive into the “box theory”—the idea that people get placed into one of three boxes when dating: "Want to date," "Just for fun," or "Not interested." But is it really that simple? And can you change boxes over time? We break down the p ... Show More
1 h
Jun 18
301: Essential Insights for Understanding an Avoidant
Do you keep attracting emotionally unavailable partners? Are you dating someone who pulls away just when things get close? When this happens, it’s easy to feel lost and wonder if the person you’re dating is avoidant or simply not that interested. In this episode, Matthew, Stephen ... Show More
57m 10s
Jun 25
302: “I’m nearly 40 and feel rushed to find love…help!”
Do you feel like time is running out to find love? Whether you’re worried about starting a family, comparing yourself to friends who are coupled up, or just feeling urgent pressure to “catch up” in your dating life, this episode is for you. Matthew, Stephen, and Audrey explore ho ... Show More
1h 2m
Feb 2025
148. How To Show Interest In Early Dating (Without Looking Desperate)
If showing interest in the person you're dating is scary, this episode will help! Showing interest when you're interested is key in developing a secure, healthy relationship in the early dating stage - even when things feel uncertain. I'm breaking down the appropriate, not-desper ... Show More
35m 17s
Oct 2024
240. Overcoming dating burnout
In our 20s it can feel like a mad rush to find the one. If you are single and dating, you know the experience of going on what seems like dozens of dates only to be disappointed and, at the end of the day, exhausted and yet you still haven't found someone. In this episode, we dis ... Show More
35m 19s