Unpacking Possibility with Dr. Traci Stein

Traci Stein
  • 4.8 (13)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Biweekly

Welcome to the Unpacking Possibility podcast – I’m your host, Dr. Traci Stein. I’m a psychologist, hypnotherapist, and I’m a core faculty member at the Spirituality Mind Body Institute at Teachers College, Columbia University in the heart of great city of New York. I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about how our minds work, understanding how our intuition speaks to us, and learning about what combination of these things helps people to make important steps and lead meaningful lives. I’m fascinated with how we can use our inner knowing to guide us to live a life that’s in line who we truly are. In this podcast, I’ll share with you everything I’ve learned, and give you the keys to unlock YOUR potential to live YOUR most rewarding life. I’ll sit down with people from all walks of life who’ve experienced profound personal transformation in some way – each with the common thread of realizing with great clarity, openness and receptivity, that it was time to live their purpose. We’ll listen in as each person tells their story of “aha moments,” and how they ultimately wound up taking action, overcoming challenges, and pursuing their passions. In each episode of Unpacking Possibility, we’ll unpack what it really takes to manifest positive change. It’s my calling to inspire you to discover your authentic self, learn to trust your inner wisdom, and live a life that has meaning for you!

  1. Sep 29

    Ep. 174 - “Silence Was My First Language” with Author Rich Dunning

    In this powerful episode, Traci sits down with author Rich Dunning to discuss his memoir, “Silence Was My First Language.” Rich shares how his childhood in the Bronx, marked by poverty and severe abuse, made silence a necessary survival strategy. For years, Rich’s academic and professional successes hid a nearly unsurvivable battle with addiction. Rich recounts the pivotal moment in 2017 when he chose to seek help—and how sobriety, faith, family and forgiveness helped him to break free from generational trauma.   Traci also previews the next leg of the podcast journey: “The Extraordinary, with Dr. Traci Stein,” debuting October 2026. Tune in next week for more details. Learn more about Rich Dunning + pre-order the book: https://www.richdunningbooks.com/ **Content Warning:** This episode includes discussion of child abuse, domestic violence, addiction, and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available—call or text **988** (US). Follow "The Extraordinary with Dr. Traci Stein", now live! Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/15Xt8qwNJhVyqJYb7uq7XV Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-extraordinary-with-dr-traci-stein/id6817035081 For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

  2. Sep 22

    Ep. 173 - Can’t Sleep? Calm Your Mind & Body Fast (Tools for 3AM Wake-Ups)

    Can’t sleep—again? If you’re lying awake, waking up in the middle of the night, or up too early, this episode gives you a practical, calming toolkit you can use in the moment. Psychologist Traci Stein shares mental strategies (imagery, focus shifts, counting) and body-based tools (stretching, calming touch, self-massage, acupressure) to help you settle your nervous system and return to sleep—or at least get truly restorative rest. What you’ll learn How to stop the pressure spiral of “I have to sleep” and shift into rest mode Guided imagery and multi-sensory visualization to calm a busy mind Simple stretching and weighted comfort to help your body feel safe Calming touch + acupressure points to reduce racing thoughts Mindfulness tools for when your brain won’t turn off When to get up briefly—and when to consult a provider For Traci Stein’s sleep meditations (including “Manifesting During Deep Sleep”), please visit: https://tracistein.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 173 - Can’t Sleep? Calm Your Mind & Body Fast (Tools for 3AM Wake-Ups)

  3. Sep 15

    Ep. 172 - (Encore) Embracing Motherhood Without Losing Yourself

    So much support shows up during pregnancy and those first weeks with a newborn… and then it often fades. Meanwhile, the inner transition of becoming a mother is just getting started. If motherhood has left you feeling everything from blissful to overwhelmed—or even secretly longing for the life you had before—this episode offers language, context, and reassurance. It’s also a powerful listen to share with a partner, friend, or family member who wants to better understand what new mothers are carrying. Educators and Seed Mother founders Julia Sarewitz and Victoria Trinko explore “matrescence”—the developmental process of becoming a mother. Like adolescence, matrescence brings unavoidable changes in identity, relationships, social life, mind, body, and spirit. And because society often prioritizes the needs of the child while overlooking the needs of the mother, many new moms end up feeling exhausted, alone, resentful, and guilty for not living a fairy-tale version of parenthood. Tune in to feel seen, understand what’s happening beneath the surface, and learn how to feel more empowered and supported through this transformative season. Learn more about matrescence, Seed Mother’s workshops, and 1:1 wellness offerings:www.seed-mother.com For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 172 - (Encore) Embracing Motherhood Without Losing Yourself

  4. Sep 8

    Ep. 171 - “Attention, PLEASE!” ADHD Myths, Science & Solutions with Dr. Ryan Sultan

    In this encore episode, Columbia University researcher and double-boarded psychiatrist Dr. Ryan Sultan joins Traci Stein to dispel common myths, explain the neurobiological basis of ADHD, and share evidence-based, effective treatments for managing ADHD in children and adults. Key Topics Covered: The impact of modern life on attention and ADHD symptoms Gender differences in ADHD  The role of medication: effectiveness, safety, and common concerns Non-medication strategies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, executive function skills, and lifestyle changes How treating ADHD can reduce the risk of low self-esteem, relationship problems, accidents, job loss, divorce, anxiety and depression The heritability of ADHD and considerations for parents Resources & Links: For more on Dr. Ryan Sultan, and to schedule a consultation, visit: integrative-psych.org For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/ Sign up for Traci’s spam-free newsletter: https://www.drtracistein.com/let-s-stay-in-touch Follow Traci on Facebook (@DrTStein), Instagram (@DrTraciStein) and YouTube (@TraciSteinPhD) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 171 - “Attention, PLEASE!” ADHD Myths, Science & Solutions with Dr. Ryan Sultan

  5. Sep 1

    Ep. 170 - Signs of Adult ADHD + How I Manage It

    Do you lose your keys, zone out mid-conversation, or feel like your brain won’t stay on one track?   Psychologist Traci Stein breaks down adult ADHD—and shares the simple strategies she uses to manage it – without perfection. Adult ADHD can look like distractibility, procrastination, time blindness, restlessness, or chronic disorganization—and it often shows up differently from childhood. In this episode of “Unpacking Possibility,’ Traci Stein explains the ADHD subtypes (inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive,  combined), what to rule out first (sleep issues, anxiety, depression), and why modern distractions can intensify symptoms. Then she shares the 10 practical, realistic tools she uses to stay focused and functional—without beating herself up for being “imperfect.” You’ll learn:   - Key signs of adult ADHD and how it varies person to person   - ADHD subtypes and how they show up in daily life   - What else can mimic ADHD (and what can overlap)   - How to work with your brain using simple routines and supports   Traci’s go-to strategies include:   - Track caffeine/substance use (and its impact on sleep/focus)   - Self-compassion + learning instead of self-criticism   - Plan for task-switching and build in movement breaks   - Write accessible to-do lists (paper vs. phone)   - Use small rewards to stay motivated   - Set weekly goals and work backward realistically   - Mindfulness + exercise to improve focus and regulation   For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/ Listen to the previous episode on ADHD Myths, Science & Solutions, with Ryan Sultan, MD: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ep-115-attention-please-adhd-myths-science-solutions/id1560681195?i=1000721644660 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 170 - Signs of Adult ADHD + How I Manage It

  6. Aug 25

    Ep. 169 - All About Lucid Dreaming with Robert Waggoner

    In this encore episode, psychologist Traci Stein interviews Robert Waggoner, a lucid dreaming expert and author of acclaimed books on the subject. Robert explains how lucid dreaming can lead to greater creativity, enhanced performance, emotional and physical healing, and spiritual growth. Robert and Traci also discuss practical techniques for how you, too, can begin harnessing the power of lucid dreams. Tune in to learn how lucid dreaming can have profound effects on your waking life, personal development, and overall well being. For more on Robert Waggoner, his books and lucid dreaming workshops, visit: https://www.lucidadvice.com To read Robert’s magazine: https://www.luciddreamingmagazine.com/issues For more on Traci Stein, her audio programsand more, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 169 - All About Lucid Dreaming with Robert Waggoner

  7. Aug 18

    Ep. 168 - What If Estate Planning Is Self-Care?

    Estate planning sounds like something you do at the end of life—and yet, it can be one of the most loving, grounding, peace-building things you do for yourself and others while you’re still here – and with plenty of life to live.In this episode, Traci Stein sits down with estate planning attorney Lillie N. Nkenchor, Esq., LL.M., to reframe estate planning as a vital act of self-care: a way to protect the people you love, reduce your stress and theirs, and create more ease and clarity for everyone involved. In this episode, we unpack:- Why people avoid estate planning (fear, superstition, complicated family dynamics)- How grief and money can change family dynamics overnight- The risks of outdated documents and “I’ll get to it later” plans- The most common myths, including “I’m not wealthy, I don’t need to think about this” and “my family will figure it out”- Why planning matters even if you’re single, renting, or don’t have children- Why some DIY documents don’t hold up in court)- How planning can open honest conversations, reduce misunderstandings, and strengthen relationships For more information about Lillie N. Nkenchor, and to obtain her free ebook, visit: https://www.lillienkenchor.com/Follow Lillie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lillie_Nkenchor_PC/and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lillie.nkenchorFor more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 168 - What If Estate Planning Is Self-Care?

  8. Aug 11

    Ep. 167 - Giving Birth To Your New Self

    Feeling restless, edgy, or like your life doesn’t quite fit anymore? In this episode, psychologist Traci Stein explores why that uncomfortable “something has to shift” feeling isn’t a problem to fix—it’s often your own deepest wisdom telling you it’s time to grow. Using the metaphor of giving birth to yourself, Traci breaks down what this transition can look like emotionally (grief, irritability, resentment, craving alone time), where it tends to show up (career, relationships, identity, family roles and spirituality), and how to move through it with clarity and compassion—whether or not you’re feeling the need for a dramatic overhaul or smaller, everyday shifts. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:- Common signs it’s time for a shift - The 3 stages of rebirth: contractions (discomfort), labor (commitment and release), and birth (becoming)- Why small daily choices can create profound change You’ll also discover simple prompts and questions to ask yourself to get clearer on who you  ideally want to become on this next leg of your journey.For more on Traci Stein, and to subscribe to her newsletter, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    Ep. 167 - Giving Birth To Your New Self
See All (173)

4.8
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Unpacking Possibility podcast – I’m your host, Dr. Traci Stein. I’m a psychologist, hypnotherapist, and I’m a core faculty member at the Spirituality Mind Body Institute at Teachers College, Columbia University in the heart of great city of New York. I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about how our minds work, understanding how our intuition speaks to us, and learning about what combination of these things helps people to make important steps and lead meaningful lives. I’m fascinated with how we can use our inner knowing to guide us to live a life that’s in line who we truly are. In this podcast, I’ll share with you everything I’ve learned, and give you the keys to unlock YOUR potential to live YOUR most rewarding life. I’ll sit down with people from all walks of life who’ve experienced profound personal transformation in some way – each with the common thread of realizing with great clarity, openness and receptivity, that it was time to live their purpose. We’ll listen in as each person tells their story of “aha moments,” and how they ultimately wound up taking action, overcoming challenges, and pursuing their passions. In each episode of Unpacking Possibility, we’ll unpack what it really takes to manifest positive change. It’s my calling to inspire you to discover your authentic self, learn to trust your inner wisdom, and live a life that has meaning for you!

Information

You Might Also Like