AWAKE: The Sleep Health Podcast

How does exposure to natural light in nature impact our sleep patterns and overall well-being? In this episode, Martin Moore-Ede, the Director of the Circadian Light Research Center, sheds light on the profound effects of natural and artificial light on our sleep patterns and well-being. Martin explores the impact of blue light, the benefits of controlled light exposure, and the connection between disrupted circadian rhythms, sleep apnea, and various health conditions. He discusses how greene...

Raising awareness about the importance of sleep and how to achieve it is essential for everyone’s well-being. In this episode, Stacey Simon shares her invaluable insights on the importance of healthy sleep for children and adolescents, their challenges, and effective interventions that can make a difference. Stacey uncovers the transformative power of quality sleep and explores practical strategies for improving sleep health in our younger generations. Get ready for an eye-opening discu...

Technology is reshaping the landscape of sleep health, offering new ways to monitor and improve sleep quality. In this episode, Brandon Ballinger, co-founder of Empirical Health, shares his journey from software engineer to healthcare innovator. Brandon discusses his involvement in developing technology to detect abnormal heart rhythms using devices like the Apple Watch and the significance of this technology in uncovering links between heart health and sleep disorders like sleep apnea. He hi...

There is a complex relationship between interrupted sleep, coffee, and the risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib). In this episode, Dr. Greg Marcus discusses his studies on the relationship between sleep and various health issues, particularly sleep apnea and atrial fibrillation (AFib). Greg shares insights from his research on caffeine's impact on sleep, revealing that coffee consumption, especially for slow caffeine metabolizers, can significantly affect sleep duration. Dr. Marcus also delves i...

Many individuals, especially women, face dismissal of their sleep issues by healthcare professionals, emphasizing the need for second opinions and proper diagnosis. In this episode, Sheryl Stillman shares her journey with severe obstructive sleep apnea. Sheryl discusses her struggles with sleep issues, initially dismissed as menopause-related by her primary care physician. Despite being prescribed a CPAP machine, her first experience was negative due to a lack of support and understanding. Ho...