As 2025 comes to an end, this special episode of Deep Into Sleep is a reflection on what a year of conversations has taught me about sleep, the brain, and the people who trust us with their nights.
Rather than focusing on a single sleep disorder, this episode brings together four meaningful conversations that shaped how I now think about sleep across the lifespan—from childhood to adulthood, from behavior to biology.
In this episode, we explore:
Sleep terrors are often misunderstood and deeply frightening for parents.
In this episode, I share key insights from a conversation with pediatric sleep expert Dr. Sarah Honaker.
Nightmares are common—but nightmare disorder is not something people have to live with forever. In my conversation with Dr. Courtney Worley, we discussed some myths around nightmares.
One key takeaway: improving sleep often starts during the day, not at night.
Several conversations this year reinforced one critical message: snoring is not benign. In my discussion with sleep physician Dr. Christopher Allen, we covered why sleep apnea has been described as a “slow killer”—not dramatic, but silent. We also discuss treatment options, including CPAP, and other options, emphasizing the importance of individualized care.
In an upcoming episode with Dr. Kendall Stewart, we explore sleep through the lens of genetics and neurochemistry. When we stop guessing and start tailoring treatment to the individual, sleep care becomes more effective—and more humane.
This year also brought an unexpected moment of gratitude: being named “Sleep Podcast of the Year” by Dr. Chris Winter on his podcast Sleep Unplugged.
I don’t take that recognition lightly. It belongs to every guest who shared their expertise, every listener who trusted this space, and every patient who reminds me why sleep education matters.
If this episode helps you understand your sleep—or your child’s sleep—just a little better, then it has done its job.
Thank you for going deep into sleep with me.
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/breathing
RESOURCES
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If you're interested in learning more about psychological testing and the services offered at the MindBodyGarden make sure to visit their website at mindbodygarden.com/AssessmentClinic.
In this episode, Dr. Yishan explores the intersection of cutting-edge technology and sleep health, diving deep into the ways artificial intelligence is shaping the future of sleep research and care. Joining the conversation is Mikael Kågebäck, Chief Technology Officer at Sleep Cycle and a specialist in AI and machine learning. Together, they discuss how large-scale AI-powered data collection—using just the audio from your phone—can help us understand sleep patterns, pinpoint global trends, and even potentially identify early warning signs of health issues like respiratory illness and sleep apnea.
Mikael Kågebäck shares fascinating insights from Sleep Cycle’s global user base, including how sleep habits vary around the world and what the pandemic taught us about sleep regularity. He also opens up about the rigorous privacy and security protocols that keep users’ data safe, and gives us a peek into the app’s innovative features, such as its real-time “cough radar” and advanced sleep staging.
Whether you’re curious about the technology behind sleep trackers, the benefits (and limits) of AI in sleep medicine, or the future of personalized sleep coaching, this episode is packed with expert knowledge and intriguing possibilities. So get ready to find out how your phone could become your best ally in achieving better sleep—thanks to the power of AI!
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/AI
RESOURCES
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In this episode, host Dr. Yishan welcomes Dr. Nicole Fleischmann, a renowned board-certified urogynecologist and urologist, to delve into a topic that’s rarely discussed: the hidden connections between breathing, pelvic floor health, and women’s well-being.
Dr. Fleischmann, author of "The Second Mouth: A Woman's Journey to Decoding a Hidden Language for a New Era in Women's Health," shares her groundbreaking perspective on how the way we breathe—specifically through our diaphragm and belly—can have a profound impact not just on relaxation and sleep, but also on pelvic health, urinary incontinence, and even sexual well-being. Together, Dr. Yishan and Dr. Fleischmann bust long-standing myths about Kegel exercises, posture, and what it really means to have a “strong” pelvic floor.
They also explore why so many women live with undiagnosed pelvic floor issues, the culturally ingrained habits that might actually be harming us, and how simple but intentional breathing techniques can empower women to reconnect with their bodies and improve their quality of life.
If you’re curious about better sleep, nervous system health, and what it really takes to care for your pelvic floor, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips you won’t want to miss. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that just might change the way you think about your own body.
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/breathing
RESOURCES
Are you so sleepy that you cannot focus? Are you tired of getting through the day drinking coffee? Are you worried how your poor sleep may impact your health?
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If you're interested in learning more about psychological testing and the services offered at the MindBodyGarden make sure to visit their website at mindbodygarden.com/AssessmentClinic.
Do nightmares keep you awake at night? Wondering if frequent nightmares mean you have trauma—or if they can ever truly be cured? In this powerful episode, Dr. Yishan welcomes Dr. Courtney Worley, nightmare specialist, board-certified clinical psychologist, and co-author of “The Nightmare and Sleep Disorder Toolkit.” Together, they explore what nightmares really are, why they happen (even if you don’t have PTSD), and how evidence-based treatments like imagery rehearsal therapy and lucid dreaming can help you take back control of your nights.
Dr. Worley shares real-life breakthrough moments, explains the difference between nightmares and night terrors, and reveals common mistakes people make when trying to manage distressing dreams on their own. Discover actionable hope, scientific guidance, and practical resources—whether you’re struggling with trauma-related nightmares or looking for ways to simply sleep better.
If nightmares are disrupting your life, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Tune in for cutting-edge expertise, self-help strategies, and the encouragement to seek help and finally find rest.
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/nightmare
RESOURCES
Are you so sleepy that you cannot focus? Are you tired of getting through the day drinking coffee? Are you worried how your poor sleep may impact your health?
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If you're interested in learning more about psychological testing and the services offered at the MindBodyGarden make sure to visit their website at mindbodygarden.com/AssessmentClinic.
Welcome back to the Deep Into Sleep Podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Christopher Allen—also known as Sleep Dr. Chris on social media—to dive deep into the world of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). With over 25% of adults in America affected by OSA (and nearly a billion people worldwide!), this sleep disorder is far more common than most of us realize. Yet, many people go undiagnosed for years, and only a small percentage actually seek treatment. Tune in for more!
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/OSA
RESOURCES
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A topic that affects many but is often misunderstood: sleep apnea. Join us with Dr. Douglas Krohn to uncover the intricacies of obstructive sleep apnea, highlighting symptoms, risks, and the impact it has on both mental and physical health.
Dr. Krohn, a seasoned primary care physician and sleep medicine expert, introduces an innovative telehealth platform, konk.com, designed to streamline the diagnostic process. By leveraging adaptive logic questionnaires, this platform offers a faster, cheaper avenue to pinpoint sleep apnea, circumventing the traditional costly sleep studies.
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/sleepapnea
RESOURCES
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If you're interested in learning more about psychological testing and the services offered at the MindBodyGarden make sure to visit their website at mindbodygarden.com/AssessmentClinic.
Welcome to Deep Into Sleep! I'm your host, Dr. Yishan, and today, we have a fascinating guest—Stephanie Romiszewski a leading expert in behavioral sleep medicine, with a background that spans psychology, Harvard Sleep Labs, and the founder of the Sleepyhead Clinic.
In this episode, we’re breaking down some of the biggest sleep myths that might be messing with your rest. Are relaxation apps really helping? Do you actually need eight hours of sleep? Stephanie and I dive into these common misconceptions and share practical tips to help you sleep better.
Whether you’re struggling with insomnia or just want to wake up feeling more refreshed, this conversation will give you the tools to improve your sleep. So, get comfy and let’s get started!
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/sleepmyths
RESOURCES
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In this episode of Deep Into Sleep Podcast, we talked about the essentials of selecting the right mattress with expert Derek Hales. From understanding the appropriate firmness to considering materials and addressing individual sleep needs, Derek shares insights from testing hundreds of mattresses. Whether you're a side sleeper needing medium firmness or a stomach sleeper requiring additional support, there's a mattress out there for you. We also explore the rise of smart beds and the importance of balancing comfort with technology. Take control of your sleep quality by understanding what you truly need in a mattress.
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/mattress
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Welcome to this special 200th episode of the Deep Into Sleep podcast! Join Dr. Yishan as she takes you on a journey through her evolving understanding of sleep medicine since the podcast's inception in 2019. From her early days at Stanford's Sleep Medicine Center, she's gained profound insights into myriad sleep disorders—over 90 types, with insomnia being just one of them. Through interviews with esteemed sleep experts, Dr. Yishan has grown not only in her knowledge but also in her career, with her mental health clinic expanding exponentially. She also shares her exciting plans to launch a sleep center in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Tune in as Dr. Yishan reveals her top travel tips for better sleep on long flights, including the benefits of eye masks, earplugs, supportive neck pillows, and cozy socks. Embrace the new year with hopeful perspectives on improving sleep quality.
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey, and enjoy the episode!
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/travelsleeptips
RESOURCES
Are you so sleepy that you cannot focus? Are you tired of getting through the day drinking coffee? Are you worried how your poor sleep may impact your health?
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Newsletter and Download Free Sleep Guidence E-Book:
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Podcast Links:
If you're interested in learning more about psychological testing and the services offered at the MindBodyGarden make sure to visit their website at mindbodygarden.com/AssessmentClinic.
In today's episode, we shift from our usual discussions on sleep to explore the fascinating world of cosmetic medicine with our guest, Dr. Joel Pash. As a seasoned anesthesiologist turned specialist in men's penile enlargement. He sheds light on the cultural perceptions and psychological impacts of this aesthetic procedure, drawing parallels to widely accepted cosmetic enhancements for women. We'll explore patient motivations, safety considerations, and address common misconceptions about size and satisfaction. Enjoy the episode!
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/penileenlargement
RESOURCES
Are you so sleepy that you cannot focus? Are you tired of getting through the day drinking coffee? Are you worried how your poor sleep may impact your health?
Checkout Dr. Yishan Xu’s Insomnia Treatment Course!
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If you're interested in learning more about psychological testing and the services offered at the MindBodyGarden make sure to visit their website at mindbodygarden.com/AssessmentClinic.
In this episode we dive into the world of circadian rhythms with Alexander Dimitrov, the founder of Ayo. Discover how personalized light therapy can enhance your sleep, energy, and mood. Whether you're combating jet lag, afternoon dips, or winter blues, these innovative circadian glasses can help align your natural body clock with your lifestyle. Enhance your day with structured light exposure, improve performance, and thrive in all environments. Visit goayo.com and use code "DEEPINTOSLEEP" for a 10% discount. Embrace better sleep health—it’s a game-changer!
Show Notes: deepintosleep.co/episode/bluelight
RESOURCES
Are you so sleepy that you cannot focus? Are you tired of getting through the day drinking coffee? Are you worried how your poor sleep may impact your health?
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Newsletter and Download Free Sleep Guidence E-Book:
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Podcast Links:
If you're interested in learning more about psychological testing and the services offered at the MindBodyGarden make sure to visit their website at mindbodygarden.com/AssessmentClinic.