Catching Zzz's: A Better Sleep Council podcast

In this bite-sized episode, Dr. Cindy Howard shares tips on when you should stop eating before going to sleep. Full interview with Dr. Cindy Howard: The Hidden Link Between Gut Health and Quality Sleep with Dr. Cindy Howard & Mary Helen Rogers Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Are you running on empty, pushing through exhaustion in the name of productivity — and calling it success? In today's episode, we have Caroline Dowd-Higgins who works with leaders and organizations to successfully adapt to complex, ambiguous, and high-velocity work environments.  Her speaking, coaching, and consulting, helps organizations to become more collaborative, entrepreneurial, and agile without sacrificing wellbeing. We dive into the real impact of burnout in today's workplace, debunking common myths around self-care and productivity and highlighting why sleep is the most underrated performance tool out there.  Caroline shares her personal journey from high-achieving industry leader to burnout survivor and wellness advocate, offering listeners strategies to reclaim balance, set healthy work-life boundaries, and truly honor both body and mind.  As Caroline states in the episode, you can't yoga your way out of burnout and whether you're a seasoned executive, a rising leader, or anyone striving for better rest and performance, this episode delivers the permission you need to put your wellbeing first. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

In this bite-sized episode, Marriage and Family Therapist Emma Ekum shares how modeling good habits is one of the ways you can teach kids about the importance of sleep. Habits like wind-down rituals, storytime and screen-free evenings are discussed as well as why it's important to establish a consistent bedtime tailored to each of your child's needs. Full interview with Emma Ekum: Navigating Sleep at Every Age – From Newborns to College Students with Lissa Coffey & Emma Ekum [Part 1] Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's! Brittney Lynn here, back in the host chair interviewing this week's guest, Crosby Noricks who is a San Diego-based somatic adviser. If you've ever struggled to quiet your mind at night or find yourself feeling disconnected from your body, this conversation is definitely one to listen to. Crosby breaks down what somatics means, offers enlightening analogies about mind-body connection, and explores how the ways we process emotions physically can affect everything from our daily stress levels to our ability to get a good night's sleep. During our conversation, we talk about why it's so easy to get "stuck in your head," why our society has often ignored the wisdom of the body, and practical tips for building somatic intelligence—even if slowing down or tuning in feels overwhelming at first.  Whether you're curious about new approaches, looking for ways to regulate your nervous system, or just hoping to sleep more soundly, this episode offers guidance and advice for rekindling your connection with your whole self. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

In this bite-sized episode, Dr. Kristi Graves shares ways to use your thoughts to redirect anxiety, especially in moments like waking up with racing thoughts in the middle of the night. She also explains practices like autogenic training, which combines muscle relaxation and mindful breathing to strengthen the mind-body connection. Full interview with Dr. Kristi Graves: Rest, Resilience, and Recovery: Sleep's Role in Cancer Wellness with Dr. Kristi Graves, Elissa Kalver, & Mary Helen Rogers Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Shopping for a new mattress can be an overwhelming experience, to say the least. That's why we've invited Mike Magnuson to join us this week. Mike is the founder of GoodBed.com, an independent consumer review platform and trusted mattress information resource.  GoodBed.com is the only mattress information website that combines comprehensive scientific product testing, the largest independent collection of consumer mattress reviews with nearly 700,000 to date, and a highly personalized approach to mattress guidance.  In this episode, we are going to dig into the real challenges consumers face when choosing a mattress and why this big-ticket purchase is so personal and important.  From navigating a wide range of options to understanding key factors like fit, feel, and features—the famous 3 Fs—Mike shares practical, down-to-earth advice to help shoppers make smarter, more confident decisions.  We also talk about the pitfalls of relying too heavily on online reviews, how easy return policies shape buying behavior, and why unbiased scientific testing plays such an important role in today's marketplace.  Whether you're buying your first mattress, deep into research mode, or simply looking for tips to sleep better, this episode offers insights to help you cut through the noise, do your homework, and confidently find the bed that's right for you. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

In this bite-sized episode, we're discussing  the real risks of drowsy driving, highlighting how even everyday tricks like rolling down your window or turning up the radio can't stop the biology of sleep from taking over. Registered Nurse Terry Cralle shares the dangers of drowsy driving and what a microsleep is. Full interview with Terry: Distracted Driving & Sleep Deprivation with Registered Nurse Terry Cralle & Mary Helen Rogers Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

This week, we have Better Sleep Council representative and Family Nurse Practitioner Ellen Wermter. Ellen's been on in the past discussing the circadian rhythm. Today's conversation we're talking all about menopause. Ellen breaks down the difference between perimenopause and menopause, explains the roller coaster of symptoms women may experience—from hot flashes and irritability to sleep disruption and brain fog—and reveals why these changes are so unpredictable. We'll unpack why sleep becomes so elusive during this transition, the real impact of fluctuating hormones, and the surprising role of things like your mattress, bedroom environment, and even your support system.  Ellen shares practical advice on managing anxiety, evaluating supplements, and how lifestyle tweaks (think: exercise, protein, stress management) can make a real difference.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

In this bite-sized episode, we're diving into the big idea that better sleep doesn't always require more time—sometimes, it's about letting go of the pressure to sleep perfectly. Nurse Practitioner Ellen Wermter shares the perspective that while good habits and a restful environment matter, chasing after sleep can actually cause more harm than good.  Full interview with Ellen: Mastering Your Internal Clock: Optimizing Sleep and Health With Circadian Rhythm Insights with Ellen Wermter & Mary Helen Rogers Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's! I'm Brittney Lynn, producer of the Catching Zzz's podcast and Better Sleep Council representative and this week I'm interviewing Sarah Pelc Graca who is a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach, nutrition coach, and founder of Strong with Sarah. Sarah helps her clients lose weight, build confidence, and feel energized while still enjoying wine, chocolate, and social life in moderation. During our conversation, Sarah shares why getting quality rest goes far beyond feeling refreshed—it directly impacts our hunger hormones, daily movement, and even the choices we make around food.  From diving into the biological effects of sleep deprivation on hormones, to practical advice you can use when sick or navigating today's "food everywhere" culture, this episode is packed with tips and real-life wisdom for anyone looking to lose weight or simply live healthier—without extreme diets or rigid restriction.  Whether you're in the early stages of a health journey or just curious about why sleep really matters, this conversation will help you rethink your nightly routine and its ripple effects throughout your day. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's. This week, we have sleep expert, Better Sleep Council representative, and Registered Nurse Terry Cralle back for a holiday-themed episode centered around giving yourself and others the best gift of all, the gift of sleep.  During our conversation, we talk about overcoming sleep guilt and transforming bedtime routines for kids and adults. We discuss how prioritizing rest can dramatically improve your mood, productivity and overall health, as well as practical tips for creating a cozy sleep environment and how to empower your children to love their bedtime routine.  This episode is packed full of ideas to help everyone celebrate the season, feeling refreshed and well rested. Tune in, recharge, and resolve to make sleep your superpower in the year ahead.   You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's! It's Lissa Coffey back again in the host seat.  Today, I'm sitting down again with Marriage and Family Therapist Emma Ekum and we are discussing the fascinating world of lucid dreaming. This topic came up during our previous episode all about dreaming and we felt like it deserved its own episode, as there is a lot to discuss! During our conversation, we discuss what lucid dreaming actually is, why some people can become aware within their dreams—and even control them—and how this unique state of consciousness can be both magical and practical. Emma explains the science behind lucid dreaming, from prefrontal cortex self-awareness to connections with practices like mindfulness, meditation, and even video gaming.  We also explore who might benefit most from lucid dreaming—and who should approach it with caution.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube  

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's, I'm Mary Helen Rogers and I'm your host for this episode. Today, we're going beyond the mattress and speaking with the founders of Dryft Sleep, Jess Windell and Lindsey Rosenberg, the wellness brand making sleep the ultimate form of self-care.  During our conversation, Jess and Lindsey share their personal journeys and how they got started in the sleep space, their perspectives on sleep wellness, and how products like medical-grade mouth tape, magnesium spray, and silicone earplugs can make a meaningful difference in your nightly routine.  Whether you're a sleep industry insider or simply someone seeking more restful nights, this episode encourages you to think holistically about your sleep environment.  Get ready for tips on evaluating your sleep hygiene, creating personalized routines for yourself and your family, and picking the right products to transform your "lotion and potion hour" into true self-care. You can find more information about Jess, Lindsey, and the Better Sleep Council at bettersleep.org. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Our guest today is Jeannie Baldomero who is a mentor to moms with teen girls, author, and the host of the Raising Her Confidently podcast.   We explore the challenges and rewards of parenting teens in today's hyper-connected world and why sleep is the ultimate foundation for teen physical and emotional growth. Jeannie shares thoughtful insights from her own journey, her work empowering mothers to foster open communication with their daughters, and the real-life struggles teens face balancing academic, social, and extracurricular pressures.  We discuss actionable strategies for building trust, modeling healthy habits—including sleep routines—and navigating technology in a way that supports rather than disrupts teen wellness. Whether you're a parent or simply curious about how today's teens tick, this conversation is packed with honest reflections to help families move from surviving to thriving—starting with a good night's sleep.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's! I'm Mary Helen Rogers of the Better Sleep Council. In this episode, we have Dr. Cindy Howard, who is a board-certified chiropractic internist, nutritionist, and author of the book Positively Altered: Finding Happiness at the Bottom of a Chemo Bag.  We're talking about the intricate connections between gut health, nutrition, sleep quality, and even the power of mindset in the face of life's toughest challenges. Whether you feel overwhelmed by the never-ending stream of wellness advice or questioned the real impact of your food choices on mood, energy, and sleep, this conversation is packed with practical advice and empowering insights.  Dr. Howard explains why gut health truly is at the core of everything, why the idea of "convenience" might be holding us back from true wellness, and how small, sustainable changes can make a huge difference. Plus, she opens up about her own journey walking through a cancer diagnosis, the importance of taking control—whether of your health, your mindset, or even your medical team—and the actionable steps you can take right now for better sleep and a healthier gut.  If you're ready to challenge your habits, reclaim your well-being, and be inspired by a fresh perspective on preventive health, you won't want to miss this episode. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's! Mary Helen Rogers here, back in the host seat, and today we have on Dr. Heather Collins, who is a cognitive neuroscientist who shows people how to future-proof their brains in an era of constant change and uncertainty as well as Ivy Gustafson, who helps leaders clarify their message, sharpen their keynote presentations, and build practices that drive impact. We dive into the powerful connection between brain health and sleep, sharing insights that blend science, practical strategies, and real-life experience. Dr. Collins shares her expertise on how our brains learn, remember, and thrive, emphasizing why sleep is essential—not just for day-to-day functioning, but for long-term cognitive health. Ivy reflects on her own journey of balancing high achievement with the need for rest, uncovering how prioritizing sleep can fuel creativity, clarity, and lasting professional success. From the importance of lifelong learning and micro-rests to the science behind blueberries and fish oil, this episode is packed with actionable advice.  Tune in to discover how building better sleep routines leads to building a better brain…and, ultimately, a better life. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's. It's Lissa Coffey back again in the host seat, and today, I sit down with marriage and family therapist Emma Ekum again, where we dive into the fascinating world of dreams and dream interpretation Emma was previously a guest on past episodes where we discussed navigating sleep at every age (Part 1, Part 2), as well as how cognitive behavioral therapy can help you sleep better.  During this conversation with Emma, we explore why we dream and how dreams can offer us insight into our subconscious and help us process emotions. We unravel the mysteries behind common dream themes like flying, falling, losing teeth, test anxiety, and even those moments when you find yourself naked in public. We also cover the difference between nightmares and night terrors. You'll also get practical tips on remembering your dreams and using a dream journal to better understand yourself. Whether you're a vivid dreamer, a restless sleeper, or simply curious about what's happening in your head while you snooze, this episode is packed with helpful information. You can find more information about Emma and the Better Sleep Council at bettersleep.org. Let's dive in! You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube  

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's, the podcast from the Better Sleep Council where we explore everything you need to know about getting your best night's sleep. I'm this week's host, Mary Helen Rogers. Today we're doing a bit of a different episode. Recently, I had the chance to visit Nate Cangemi, owner of Golden Dreams Mattress, a private mattress shopping store in Carlsbad, California.   We were able to record in person and went through his entire process of what it's like to shop at his store and buy a new mattress. He calls it the refined mattress-buying experience. For some people, mattress shopping can feel overwhelming — but what if it could be a comfortable, private experience tailored just for you? Nate is giving us a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to shop for a mattress in a one-on-one setting, without the crowds or the pressure. We'll talk about how to test beds the right way, what to expect during the adjustment period to a new mattress, and how to set yourself up for better sleep from the very first night. So whether you're thinking about replacing your mattress soon, or just curious about how private mattress shopping works, you won't want to miss this episode. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to another episode of the Catching Zzz's podcast, it's Jessica Bryant back in the host seat this week.  I've previously hosted an episode earlier this season all about music therapy, including the benefits and how it can provide an alternative way to better sleep.  This week I have on Mel Tingey, who is a transformational leadership, personal development coach, and a facilitator in breathwork and sound healing.  During our conversation, we explore how breathwork practices can work as therapy without words, helping us process stress, quiet the mind and improve the quality of our sleep.  Mel breaks down what breathwork and sound healing mean, dispelling common misconceptions and offering easy, practical ways to incorporate mindful breathing into our daily routine and bedtime rituals.  Whether you're a seasoned meditator or a complete newbie, you'll find some tips, like the 90-second box breath that you can try tonight to calm your body and prepare for better sleep. Stay tuned and learn how just a few intentional breaths can make a powerful difference in your nightly wind-down and your overall well-being.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Lissa Coffey here again, hosting this episode of the Catching Zzz's podcast! This week, I am joined once again by Emma Ekum, a Marriage and Family Therapist from Los Angeles. During this episode, we're diving into how cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help tackle insomnia.  Emma breaks down the clinical definition of insomnia, the ways CBT for Insomnia (CBT-I) differs from standard CBT, and why CBT-I is often more effective long-term than using sleep medications. We also explore the importance of sleep hygiene, how changing our routines and beliefs around sleep makes a big difference, and practical strategies for getting your sleep back on track—without resorting to medication.  Whether you're struggling with sleep yourself or just want to optimize your nightly routine, this episode is packed with science-backed tips, relatable stories, and simple strategies to help you catch those much-needed Z's. You can find more information about Emma and the Better Sleep Council at bettersleep.org. Let's dive in! You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's, the podcast where we explore the science stories and strategies that help us live and sleep better.  Today, we're talking about something that touches so many lives: breast cancer. But this conversation isn't about fear. It's about strength, community, and the ways we can thrive together.  I'm joined by two inspiring women. First, Dr. Kristi Graves, a professor and researcher at Georgetown University, who studies cancer survivorship and health disparities.  We are also joined by Elissa Kalver, who was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer in 2021 and is redefining what it means to beat cancer and live her most authentic life. She's the founder of the first nonprofit gift registry for cancer patients called WeGotThis.org. Neither of our guests are sleep scientists, but they both know the profound role that sleep plays in mental health, healing, and quality of life. Today, we're going to explore how the rest fits into the bigger picture of surviving and thriving, whether you're a patient, a caregiver, a researcher, or a loved one.  During the conversation, we cover a wide variety of topics, including fatigue while having a serious illness, treatment of side effects and insomnia, practical self care routines, mental health strategies, and more. You can learn more about Dr. Kristi Graves, Elissa Kalver, and the Better Sleep Council at bettersleep.org. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome to another episode of the Catching Zzz's podcast! Better Sleep Council representative and pediatric sleep strategist Jessica Bryant of Sleep Happy Consulting is in the host seat for this week's episode.  Our guest today is Candace Szymanski, a board-certified music therapist and founder of the Cultivate Community in Southlake, Texas and we're diving into the world of music therapy and its powerful connection to sleep and emotional wellbeing.  We explore how music therapy goes far beyond just learning an instrument, offering creative and evidence-based ways for children and teens to express emotion, cope with stress, and build healthy sleep routines. Candace shares insightful stories from her years of experience working in pediatric hospitals and private practice, revealing how music—whether through soothing playlists, songwriting, or even simple humming—can provide comfort, signal relaxation, and help kids wind down at bedtime.  Parents, caregivers, and anyone curious about integrating music as a tool for better sleep will walk away with tangible tips, relatable anecdotes, and a new appreciation for the science and heart behind music therapy.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to Catching Zzz's, the show where we pull back the covers on the science of sleep and give you tips you can actually use without needing a PhD.  Today's episode is for anyone who's ever wondered why they feel like a zombie in the morning or suddenly wake up at midnight. We're talking about circadian rhythms, your body's internal clock, and why they're way more important than just telling you when to sleep. Joining host Mary Helen Rogers is someone who knows this better than almost anyone, Ellen Wermter. She's a Family Nurse Practitioner, a diplomat in behavioral sleep medicine, a fellow of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and one of the most passionate voices in the sleep health field.  You may recognize Ellen's name as she was on the first season of the podcast discussing Women's Health Month and a variety of topics such as sleep trackers, bedroom environments, and more.  Whether you're looking to optimize your bedtime routine or simply curious about how your body works, you'll walk away with practical takeaways to support better sleep and overall health.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Welcome back to the Better Sleep Council Podcast and another episode of Catching Zzz's! Lissa Coffey here, Better Sleep Council representative, and we're back for part two of our deep dive into kids' sleep habits with Emma Ekum, who is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles, California. In case you missed it, last week we had Emma talking about the newborn and toddler season of sleep and this week we are discussing sleep struggles and solutions for school-age kids and teens. During our conversation, we dive into how to spot signs of sleep deprivation, the importance of consistent routines, and ways to help kids become more independent in managing their own sleep schedules.  We also highlight practical tips for parents, like setting appropriate bedtimes, modeling good sleep hygiene, and the crucial role of adequate rest in children's memory, mood, and even safety as teens begin to drive. Whether you're a parent navigating kindergarten bedtimes or wrangling late-night teens, this episode is packed with insights and relatable stories to help your whole family sleep better. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube  

Welcome back to the Better Sleep Council Podcast and another episode of Catching Zzz's! We are back for season 2 and we are kicking it off with mixing it up with the host seat. I'm Lissa Coffey, you may remember me from previous episodes where I chatted with Mary Helen Rogers about Ayurveda Doshas and how stress affects your sleep.  This week I'm in the host seat and I welcome Emma Ekum, who is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Los Angeles, California. She integrates therapeutic techniques with practical sleep strategies to help individuals and couples overcome sleep challenges and improve overall well-being.  During our conversation, we dive into everything from the wild early days with newborns—think sleepless nights, mysterious baby noises, and the crucial role of sleep routines—to practical tips for creating safe, soothing sleep environments as kids grow. We unpack topics like baby sleep schedules, the benefits of white noise, how and when to transition kids to their own rooms or big kid beds, and all the modern parenting hacks that can make bedtime a little smoother for everyone. Whether you're a new parent feeling sleep-deprived or just curious about how to set your child up for a lifetime of healthy sleep habits, this episode is filled with relatable stories, expert advice, and plenty of laughs. So get cozy, and enjoy this insightful conversation that's all about catching those much-needed Z's—even if your little ones make it a challenge! We were having such a good time chatting, that we actually split the episode into two parts – tune next week for part 2! You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube  

Lissa Coffey here, representative of the Better Sleep Council, and for this week's episode I'm in the host seat! I got to interview Ali, co-founder of the Halo Salt Spa in Westlake Village, California.  During our conversation, Ali and I dive into the soothing world of salt therapy and explore how this unique salt-filled sanctuary can support better sleep and overall well-being. From the floor to ceiling walls lined with Himalayan salt to the calming benefits of negative ions, you'll discover how salt rooms not only mimic a day at the beach, but also offer a natural side-effect-free way to relax the mind and body.  Ali shares fascinating stories, including how salt therapy helped a young boy sleep through the night for the first time, as well as practical tips for bringing the power of salt into your home. You can find more information about the Better Sleep Council at bettersleep.org and about Halo Salt Spa at halosaltspa.com. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube  

May is National Women's Health Month and Better Sleep Month, and I wanted to invite Better Sleep Council Representative Ellen Wermter to discuss all things sleep and women's health. Ellen is a Family Nurse Practitioner, Diplomat in Behavioral Sleep Medicine, and Fellow of American Academy of Sleep Medicine.  During this episode, we explore the pros and cons of using sleep trackers, how to create an environment where you can thrive and sleep, signs you're focusing too much on sleep, how to identify your relationship with sleep, and why a few bad nights of sleep isn't the end of the world.  We also discussed the role natural light plays in getting a good night's sleep, the two things that optimize your sleep the most, and so much more.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Summer is coming, and you know what that means. Wonky sleep schedules for you and the kids. Are you dreaming about a consistent sleep routine with your kids, even during the long summer days? This week on the podcast we have Jessica Bryant, who is another one of our representatives at the Better Sleep Council.  She's an internationally recognized pediatric sleep strategist, keynote speaker, and the founder of Sleep Happy Consulting. She's dedicated to answering the questions exhausted parents have about their child's sleepless days and nights.  During our conversation, we discuss the art of maintaining healthy bedtime boundaries during the summer months, the importance of consistent sleep routines, the concept of bedtime boundaries, and realistic tips for balancing fun with restful nights on vacation. You can find more information about Jessica and the Better Sleep Council bettersleep.org.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube Free Bedtime Chart  

Did you know that one of the most crucial components of a good night's rest is your mattress? Many people delay replacing their mattress, but your mattress could be the cause of your restless nights and aches, and pains.  Joining us today on Catching Zzz's is Lisa Humphrey, President of Fred's Beds in North Carolina. With years of experience in the mattress industry, Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge about how the right mattress can impact our sleep quality and overall well-being.  During this episode, we explore common signs that it's time for a new mattress, the importance of tailoring your mattress choice to fit your specific needs, and the practical tips for mattress shopping success.  Whether you're upgrading your current setup or facing the crowded world of mattress options for the first time, Lisa's insights will guide how to invest wisely in restful sleep.  Grab a pillow, get cozy, and let's find out if it's time for a new mattress. You can find more information about finding the right mattress for you by going to bettersleep.org.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube  

Have you ever heard of Ayurveda? Ayurveda is the ancient Indian medical system that relies on a natural and holistic approach to physical and mental health.  This week Catching Zzz's, we bring on Better Sleep Council representative and Ayurvedic practitioner Lissa Coffey to talk about this ancient practice and how it can help you sleep better.  During our conversation, Lissa shares insights from her extensive knowledge, breaking down how the five elements of nature influence our unique mind-body types or doshas. She shares her understanding on how your dosha can guide you in making lifestyle adjustments for better health, happiness, and most importantly, restful sleep. Tune in for an enlightening discussion and learn how to harness the wisdom of this age-old science for modern-day benefits.  You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Did you know that April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month? When we think about distractions, it's usually our cell phone, our playlist, or the chatty kids in the backseat. But drowsy driving is a real danger that does not get enough attention.  On today's episode, we welcome Terry Cralle, who is a Registered Nurse, certified sleep expert, and longtime Better Sleep Council spokesperson. She's a national speaker, author, and educator who makes sleep and health easy to understand and prioritize.  During our conversation, we dive into the dangers of getting behind the wheel without adequate rest, the science of microsleeps, the telltale sign of sleep deprivation, the similarities of drunk driving and sleep-deprived driving, and practical steps to improve sleep hygiene. You can find more information about Terry and the Better Sleep Council at http://bettersleep.org. You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

Is getting enough sleep stressing you out? April is Stress Awareness Month and here at the Better Sleep Council, we want to help you stress less and sleep more.  This week on the podcast, we bring on Better Sleep Council representative Lissa Coffey to talk all things stress and sleep. Lissa is an author, life coach, lifestyle and relationship expert who's been with the Better Sleep Council for more than 15 years.  During our conversation, we discussed the complex relationship between stress and sleep, stress management techniques, and how to make mindful choices that support our overall well being, including practical tools to handle everyday stressors and more. You can find more information about Lissa and the Better Sleep Council at http://bettersleep.org. Let's dive in! You can view full show notes and more at https://bettersleep.org/blog  Quick Links: Better Sleep Council  International Sleep Products Association Follow Better Sleep Council on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube  

Welcome to Catching Zzz's, a podcast brought to you by the Better Sleep Council! The Better Sleep Council (shorthand known as "BSC") is the consumer-education arm of the International Sleep Products Association devoted to educating the public about the critical relationship between sleep, good health, and quality of life, as well as the value of the mattress and sleep environment in the pursuit of a good night's sleep.  This podcast explores how sleep influences every aspect of life. The podcast will include guest experts, roundtable discussions, and solo episodes by the Better Sleep Council representatives on a variety of health and wellness topics as they relate to sleep. You can subscribe to our podcast on all of the major podcast apps such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or any other podcast player you may use.  We're very excited that you're here and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @BetterSleepOrg and head to our website for additional resources and details at bettersleep.org