Advertise on podcast: Unpacking Possibility with Dr. Traci Stein

What happens when an aerospace engineer picks up a guitar and never looks back? In this episode of Unpacking Possibility, host Traci Stein sits down with Texas-based singer-songwriter and scientist Mark Winters for a wide-ranging conversation about curiosity, creativity, and the surprising overlap between physics and poetry. Mark spent years as an aerospace engineer working on helicopter design, jet simulation, and computational fluid dynamics — fields where, as he puts it, "even the best AI today still can't fully understand the equations." But alongside that scientific mind runs a deep creative current, sparked by a grandmother who taught him to write poetry and paint as a child. These experiences ignited a music career that combines his loves for science and music with his passion for spreading positivity. In this episode, we explore: The story behind Fake Gravity, and his other catchy, science-infused love songs about the mysterious pull of human attractionHow Mark weaves haiku, physics, and personal experience into lyrics that connect with scientists and non-scientists alikeHis take on AI in the creative world — and why he still insists on writing every melody and lyric himselfWhat it feels like to play live and share "extra protons" with a room full of strangersHis ongoing Good Vibes Highway Tour and new music coming in 2025 The episode closes with Mark's song "Fake Gravity" — give it a listen and you'll understand why Traci played it three times before hitting record. Connect with Mark Winters:  Find his music on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mark-winters/1462896598 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0dfXqjPrnIgC5fM9HtITAT?si=DWjwvFCrSiOpbDTAicxfHwFor information about Mark Winters, including tour dates, new music and more: https://markwintersmusic.com/For information about Traci Stein and Unpacking Possibility, her meditations and more: https://www.drtracistein.com

Is stress every good? You might be surprised. In this episode, psychologist Traco Stein dives deep into the science and psychology of stress — and why not all stress is bad. Traci introduces the concept of eustress (good stress) and explains how the right amount of stress can actually sharpen focus, boost motivation, and help you achieve your goals. She walks through 10+ practical, evidence-based tips to shift from paralyzing, overwhelming stress to the kind that gets you activated and moving forward — including breathwork, stress inoculation, mental visualization, self-compassion, exercise, and more. Whether you're dreading an exam, a presentation, a big deadline, or just feeling frazzled by the demands of daily life, this episode gives you tangible tools to work with your stress rather than against it. New stress management album coming soon at www.TraciStein.com Traci’s Self-Compassion Meditations: https://tracistein.com/products/self-compassion-meditations-mp3-download Traci’s Self-Compassion Meditation During Sleep: https://tracistein.com/products/self-compassion-during-sleep

In this episode of Unpacking Possibility, psychologist Traci Stein explores one of the most powerful — and deceptively challenging — tools in our emotional toolkit: sending love to difficult situations. Traci breaks down why love is considered by many traditions to be one of the most powerful forces in the universe, and why it can be so hard to access when we need it most. She also addresses the importance of not bypassing other emotions like anger, grief, and fear,  which serve vital protective functions in our lives. In this episode, Traci covers: Why sending love sounds simple but is genuinely hard to doThe role of anger as a healthy, adaptive emotion — and why we need to feel it when we feel itHow love and gratitude affect our overall wellbeingThe science of intention: what consciousness researchers like Dr. Dean Radin (Real Magic) reveal about how our thoughts and feelings can affect outcomesWhy you don't have to love everyone equally — or at all — to send loving energy to a situationA practical approach for finding one aspect of even the most difficult situation to send love toThe concept of a "web of loving intention" — and why collective positive intention mattersResources and links mentioned: Traci’s Free Meditation for Healing & Self-Love at All Points in Time https://insighttimer.com/tracistein/guided-meditations/meditation-for-healing-and-self-love-at-all-points-in-timeBook: Real Magic by Dr. Dean RadinAnalysis: Health insurance claim denials are on the rise, to the detriment of patients https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/analysis-health-insurance-claim-denials-are-on-the-rise-to-the-detriment-of-patients#:~:text=A%20recent%20KFF%20study%20of,once%20in%20every%20500%20cases.Insurance Denial Statistics, Why 80% of Appeals Succeed (But Only 1% Try)https://www.counterforcehealth.org/post/insurance-denial-statistics-why-80-of-appeals-succeed-but-only-1-try/

Edibles? Smoking? Vaping? Today's cannabis is way more potent than it was a generation ago. And more people – including adolescents and teens – are using cannabis than alcohol. Why does this matter?  Cannabis today carries greater risks of dependency, as well as problems with mood, sleep, thinking, and even psychosis. Should you cut back? Or stop altogether? In this episode, psychiatrist and researcher Dr. Ryan Sultan breaks down practical harm reduction strategies, and explains what effective treatment can look like. To learn about Dr. Sultan and treatments for cannabis use, ADHD, and more, visit: https://www.integrative-psych.org/ To learn more about Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/

Laura Soulages — a bilingual medium, spirit artist, and psychic originally from Argentina –  shares her journey of combining a passion for fine art with evidential mediumship. Laura describes the process of connecting with and sketching loved ones in spirit, discusses the early childhood experiences that foreshadowed her unique journey, and shares how creativity and spirituality are deeply intertwined. Laura also discusses her upcoming oracle card deck, The Wheel of Seasons, her forthcoming book, and her psychic and mediumship events at the Celestial Acres animal sanctuary in Tewksbury, New Jersey. For more on psychic, medium and spirit artist Laura Soulages, her events, forthcoming book and oracle cards, as well as to schedule a reading, visit: https://www.soul-ages.com/ To watch the video of this interview (with images of Laura’s spirit art, auragraphs and oracle cards): https://youtu.be/-rsB1-uez-0?si=nI7_qo1qIsE2Haua To watch the Curious Explorers Podcast episode featuring spirit art by Laura and other mediums:  https://youtu.be/rS0vZryuw9Q?si=0q7RzQkztxQCNEH5 For more information about the non-profit Celestial Acres Sanctuary, visit: https://www.rjstokley.com/ For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/

The world feels like it's breaking down — and according to the stars, that's exactly the point. Traci Stein sits down with Athen Chimenti, founder of Mastering the Zodiac, to explore True Sidereal Astrology — a more astronomically precise system aligned with the actual positions of the stars. Together they examine what the current cosmic alignments are telling us about the upheaval unfolding across the U.S. and the globe. Far from random chaos, Athen makes the case that what we're witnessing is a necessary — and ancient — cycle playing out on schedule. Pluto's 250-year return to the position it held at America's founding signals the inevitable dismantling of outdated power structures. The Saturn-Neptune conjunction is dissolving illusions we've collectively outgrown. And Mercury retrograde in Aquarius is asking us to pause, question the systems and technologies we've accepted without thinking, and reimagine what genuine community and progress could look like. The invitation isn't to despair — it's to evolve. Both personally and collectively, this is a moment of profound restructuring — one that asks each of us to look inward and get clear on who we need to become, what we have to offer, and what kind of world we're committed to helping create. Old systems are falling. What comes next is up to us.For more on Athen Chimenti and True Sidereal Astrology: https://masteringthezodiac.com/Unpacking Possibility listeners can order a true sidereal astrology report at 50% off the normal rate:  https://masteringthezodiac.com/report-discount For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/

What if your pet has been trying to tell you something all along… and you just didn’t know how to hear it? In this episode, animal communicator Anna Kloke discusses her ability to connect with pets and other animals, as well as the profound lessons they have shared with her about love and life.  Anna reveals what our beloved animal companions most want us to understand, how small shifts in our approach can greatly improve our communications with them, and how we can strengthen trust, deepen connection, and relate to these special beings with more presence. Takeaways from this episode: - What pets wish their humans understood—and why it matters - How Anna communicates with animals and the themes that come through most often - How animals choose to be part of our families (and how they “find” us) - How to approach wildlife— and when it’s best to keep our distance - Tips for building a closer, more respectful relationship with your companion - A tender look at end-of-life and how pets may orchestrate their own transition Watch the YouTube version for photos of some of Anna’s and Traci’s beloved companions: https://youtu.be/uswuh7nT4cc?si=d7EVl3Mhhm-JrGWG For more information about Anna Klocke or to book a session, visit https://www.annaklocke.com/. Follow Anna on Instagram and Facebook @annaklockeintuitive For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/

Did you ever wish your animals could tell you how they feel? Your pet wants to understand you far more deeply than you realize. In this deeply personal episode, psychologist and host Traci Stein explores the surprising science and lived experience of animal communication — from research on animal telepathy to the professional communicators who transformed her relationship with her beloved dog, Cleo. Traci shares the remarkable story of Cleo's rescue, the insights that came through working with animal communicators, and what happened in Cleo's final moments that further proves that our bonds with our animals do not end at death. You'll also walk away with practical tools to strengthen your connections with your own animals — including what humans usually get wrong (and how to get it right), as well as a key tip for preparing pets for vet visits. Whether you're a devoted pet parent or simply open to the idea that animals have more to say than we think, this episode will change the way you listen.To listen to Episode 48 (Interview with Animal Communicator Anna Klocke), visit: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ep-48-animal-communicator-anna-klocke-what-animals/id1560681195?i=1000629554317People mentioned in this episode (in order of mention):Rupert Sheldrake, PhD, Author of “Animals that Know When Their Owners are Coming Home”: https://www.sheldrake.org/Animal Communicators:Donna Lozito: https://donnalozito.com/Shalini Bosbyshell: https://shalinibosbyshell.com/Anna Klocke: https://www.annaklocke.com/For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/

Who are today’s “false gods?” They’re the public figures and leaders on stages large and small who betray our trust, lie, or live double lives. In this episode, psychologist Traci Stein breaks down how to spot false authorities and disinformation spreaders, the “once good” and “never goods” in the wellness realms, spirituality spheres, healthcare and everyday life. She also references a recent article by Dr. Lissa Rankin, who names some of the “wellfluencers” whose private personalities are a stark contrast to their public personas (and why this matters). Traci shares several examples of the “false god” phenomenon, and discusses the red flags often hiding in plain sight, including: the "one true way" mentality, obvious boundary violations, as well as why charisma is not the same as credibility. She shares how we can reclaim our own authority and learn to trust our inner wisdom when things don’t feel right.  If you've ever second-guessed your gut to defer to an "expert" who has not earned your trust, this episode will help you to trust yourself again — and know exactly when someone in power deserves neither your faith nor your funds. For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/ To read the article by Lissa Rankin, MD, referenced in this episode: “Blowing The Whistle On Deepak Chopra, The Epstein Files, Cancel Culture, & Holding My Influencer Peers (& Myself) Accountable” https://lissarankinmd.substack.com/p/blowing-the-whistle-on-deepak-chopra?fbclid=IwY2xjawQCuv5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETJTN1ZtZWthUmFWYThubkhOc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHvhT2UC0fYcLhjnCUCF0heleRhP6mGga7yHBIHT43d50ZQbdrKevWRTxhLHg_aem_fS8kUUt1siKv8K7E-7-dQQ

Exhausted from dealing with toxic people? Ever feel like you're arguing with a brick wall? Or feeling disappointed (again) with people who promise the world but fail to deliver?  In this episode, psychologist Traci Stein reveals the “psychology secrets” for dealing with difficult people. She covers why your need to be "right" might be counterproductive—and what actually works instead. Discover the game-changing difference between fighting ("boxing") and strategic redirection ("tai chi”). Learn to spot DARVO manipulation tactics before they derail you, and walk away with tools for setting boundaries that keep you safe and sane.  If you've ever left a conversation thinking "why do I even bother?"—this episode will change how you show up, from the office to the dinner table. For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/ To purchase Traci’s audio meditations for setting better boundaries, “Letting Go of Unhealthy Relationships,” visit: https://tracistein.com/products/mp3-releasing-unhealthy-patterns-situations-emotional-cords-formerly-letting-go-of-unhealthy-relationships

You know that nagging sensation when someone seems off, but you can't quite put your finger on why? That's your intuition talking—but we often dismiss it for a number of reasons. In this episode, psychologist Traci Stein digs into why we're so quick to override our gut feelings, especially when someone's charming, credentialed, attractive or has a large platform.  Drawing from recent headlines and personal examples, Traci breaks down how to tell the difference between genuine intuition and the mental noise of anxiety, fear, our hopes and biases. She reveals the surprisingly simple (and free) practice that sharpens our inner radar and can help us better discern the subtle but potentially lifesaving communication from our inner wisdom. If you've ever hired the wrong person, ignored red flags in a relationship, or gotten an “off” vibe from someone everyone else seems to admire, this episode is for you. You'll learn: The hallmarks of genuine intuition Why your “gut” often knows things before all the “normal” data is inHow a few minutes of meditation can help you hear your inner voice For more on Traci Stein, her courses, meditations, or to sign up for her free email updates, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/Follow Traci on social media: Facebook.com/DrTStein On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtracistein/On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TraciSteinPhD

In this thought-provoking conversation,psychologist Traci Stein sits down with Dr. Howard Eisenberg—physician, neuroscientist, author and thought leader—to explore how we can navigate these turbulent times with wisdom, resilience, and connection. Dr. Eisenberg shares his perspective on why our world feels increasingly chaotic and specific the factors disconnecting us from our inner wisdom and each other. He argues we're at a critical juncture where we must choose between a dystopian future or a return to a more harmonious, collaborative, and interconnected humanity. The conversation covers: Understanding "amygdala hijack" and how fear shuts down our thinking brainPractical tools for emotional self-regulation and centering in the present momentThe power of imagination and belief in shaping realityWhy love connects while hate divides—and what that means for our survivalThe science of the heart-brain connection and its role in empathy and the survival of our species and worldConcrete strategies for coping during overwhelming times, maintaining a sense of agency, and becoming more resilientDr. Eisenberg offers both philosophical depth and actionable practices, drawing from neuroscience, spiritual traditions, and his clinical work to help listeners reclaim their power, connect authentically with others, and contribute to healing our fractured world. For more on Howard Eisenberg, his coaching, speaking, and his book, “Dream It to Do It: The Science and the Magic,” visit: https://drhowardeisenberg.com/ For more on Traci Stein, her meditations and more, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/ Topics: Stress management, emotional regulation, consciousness, interconnection, resilience, imagination, heart-brain intelligence, navigating uncertainty

We find ourselves in divided and frightening times. How do we stay grounded in who we want to be? And how can each of us work toward a better world? Psychologist Traci Stein gets personal about navigating this moment while staying true to a core belief: real change begins within each one of us. When everything feels overwhelming, our individual clarity, compassion and action matter more than we think. How we extend basic dignity to everyone, even across our deepest differences, is what will create a better world.  The episode invites us to reexamine: Who do we want to be right now? And what does that require of us?For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/

When evidential medium Michelle Wisbith lost her 29-year-old son Kevin, she faced every parent’s worst nightmare—but also received unmistakable proof that he hadn't truly left. In this profound conversation with host Traci Stein, Michelle reveals the premonitions that warned her of Kevin's passing, as well as the extraordinary signs that followed. The ensuing journey reminded Michelle of what she'd spent years helping others understand: our consciousness survives death. Michelle offers a personal and transformative message about life, love, loss, and the enduring bonds that remain. For more information about D. Michelle Wisbith and mediumship in general, visit: https://dmichellemedium.com/For information about mediumship and scientific investigation into mediumship, visit The Windbridge Research Center:https://www.windbridge.org/ For information about mediumship, grief support, and for a list of certified mediums, visit: Forever Family Foundation: https://foreverfamilyfoundation.org/ For more information about Traci Stein, her meditations, intuitive development course and related audio programs, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/

John Kippen – motivational speaker, empowerment coach, professional magician, and author joins host Traci Stein to share his remarkable 12-year journey of coming to terms with the facial paralysis he was left with following brain tumor surgery. John shares how he transformed his greatest challenge into his life's purpose. John is also the author of, “Playing the Hand You Are Dealt” and the subject of the documentary, “John’s Ultimate Illusion,” co-starring his friend and award-winning actress, Jamie Lee Curtis. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand why John’s TedX talk has garnered over 1 million views and counting. For more on John Kippen, his book, his coaching, his documentary and much more, visit: https://www.johnkippen.com/ Listeners of this podcast can download a free copy of John’s book by listening for the special link he mentions in the episode.For more on Traci Stein, visit: https://www.drtracistein.com/