Deep into Sleep

Yishan Xu, PhD, DBSM

Are you worried about your sleep and health? Are you bothered by lack of sleep or fatigue? Are you suffering from insomnia, sleep apnea, or other sleep disorders? Do you feel your sleep difficulties are getting in the way of being successful, happy, and motivated? Deep into Sleep podcast is here to assist you find the answers. Dr. Yishan Xu is a licensed clinical psychologist, board-certified behavioral sleep medicine sleep specialist, and adjunct clinical faculty at Stanford School of Medicine, Sleep Division. Dr. Xu explores inspiring conversations with guests from various fields, small business owners, students, parents, entrepreneurs, doctors, mental health workers, and more. With knowledge and tips around sleep, health, business, lifestyle, and relationship, you will discover more about yourself, which leads to a healthier mindset and the life you desire. ©DeepintoSleepPodcast 2026. These materials may be downloaded for personal use only. They may not be shared, distributed, or reproduced in any form or for any reason without express permission 👀SUBSCRIBE OUR EMAIL NEWSLETTER https://www.mindbodygarden.com/sleep 📝CHECK OUT THE SHOW NOTES https://deepintosleep.co ✨CONNECT WITH US https://www.instagram.com/dr.yishan https://twitter.com/dryishan

  1. JAN 1

    Ep208 - What Sleep Taught Me This Year | Night Terrors, Nightmares, Sleep Apnea & Gratitude

    🎙️ Deep Into Sleep — Year-End Reflection EpisodeAs 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: 🧠 Children’s Sleep TerrorsSleep 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 TreatableNightmares 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. 😴 Snoring Is Never “Just Snoring”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. 🧬 Precision, Not Guesswork: The Future of Sleep CareIn 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. 🙏 Gratitude & ReflectionThis 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. 00:00 – Opening: Why a Year-End Reflection on Sleep01:15 – Gratitude & “Sleep Podcast of the Year” Moment02:20 – What Parents Misunderstand About Children’s Sleep Terrors05:00 – Nightmares: Common, Treatable, and Not a Life Sentence07:45 – Snoring Is Not Benign: Sleep Apnea and Brain Health11:00 – Precision, Not Guesswork: Biology + Behavior in Sleep Care13:20 – Final Reflections & Thank You 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? Checkout Dr. Yishan Xu’s Insomnia Treatment Course! Connect with Dr. Yishan span class="ql-ui"...

    10 min
  2. 08/29/2025

    Ep207 - Sleep Data Revolution: Using AI to Detect Patterns, Health Risks, and Improve Sleep Quality with Mikael Kågebäck, PhD

    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 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!  Connect with Dr. Yishan Instagram: @dr.yishanTwitter: @dryishanFacebook:@dr.yishan Connect with Mikael Kågebäck linkedin.com/in/kagebackkageback.com Newsletter and Download Free Sleep Guidence E-Book: https://www.mindbodygarden.com/sleep CBT-I Courses: English: https://www.deepintosleep.co/insomniaChinese:  https://www.mindbodygarden.com/shimian Podcast Links: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-into-sleep/id1475295840Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/search/deepintosleepStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/deep-into-sleepSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Vxyyj9Cswuk91OYztzcMSiHeartRadio:...

    47 min
  3. 07/31/2025

    Ep206 - Magical Power of Breathing for Female Sexual Health with Nicole Fleischmann, MD

    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? Checkout Dr. Yishan Xu’s Insomnia Treatment Course!  Connect with Dr. Yishan Instagram: @dr.yishanTwitter: @dryishanFacebook:@dr.yishan Connect with Nicole Fleischmann, MD LinkedInWebsite Newsletter and Download Free Sleep Guidence E-Book: https://www.mindbodygarden.com/sleep CBT-I Courses: English: https://www.deepintosleep.co/insomniaChinese:  https://www.mindbodygarden.com/shimian Podcast Links: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-into-sleep/id1475295840Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/search/deepintosleepStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/deep-into-sleepSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Vxyyj9Cswuk91OYztzcMSiHeartRadio:a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-deep-into-sleep-47827108/"...

    1h 2m
  4. 06/27/2025

    Ep205 - Nightmares and PTSD – Expert Tips for Better Sleep with Dr. Courtney Worley

    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? Checkout Dr. Yishan Xu’s Insomnia Treatment Course!  Connect with Dr. Yishan Instagram: @dr.yishanTwitter: @dryishanFacebook:@dr.yishan Connect with Dr. Courtney Worley DrCourtneyWorley.comUpwardBehavioralHealth.com@DrWorleyConsult Newsletter and Download Free Sleep Guidence E-Book: https://www.mindbodygarden.com/sleep CBT-I Courses: English: https://www.deepintosleep.co/insomniaChinese:  https://www.mindbodygarden.com/shimian Podcast Links: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-into-sleep/id1475295840Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/search/deepintosleepStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/deep-into-sleepSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Vxyyj9Cswuk91OYztzcMSiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-deep-into-sleep-47827108/Support our Podcast:a...

    35 min
  5. 06/20/2025

    Ep204 - Myth and Treatment options around Sleep Apnea with Christopher Allen, MD

    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 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!  Connect with Dr. Yishan Instagram: @dr.yishanTwitter: @dryishanFacebook:@dr.yishan Connect with Christopher Allen, MD Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sleepdrchris/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sleepdrchrisLinkedIN:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sleepdrchris/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093550283321 Newsletter and Download Free Sleep Guidence E-Book: https://www.mindbodygarden.com/sleep CBT-I Courses: English: https://www.deepintosleep.co/insomniaChinese:  https://www.mindbodygarden.com/shimian Podcast Links: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-into-sleep/id1475295840Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/search/deepintosleepStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/deep-into-sleepSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Vxyyj9Cswuk91OYztzcMSiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-deep-into-sleep-47827108/Support our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dryishanLeave us a Rating: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-into-sleep/id1475295840 If you're...

    35 min
  6. 04/11/2025

    Ep203: The Painful Diagnostic Journey of Sleep Apnea And a New Way Through It with Douglas Krohn, MD

    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 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!  Connect with Dr. Yishan Instagram: @dr.yishanTwitter: @dryishanFacebook:@dr.yishan Connect with Douglas Krohn, MD LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-krohn-md-119533a/ Newsletter and Download Free Sleep Guidence E-Book: https://www.mindbodygarden.com/sleep CBT-I Courses: English: https://www.deepintosleep.co/insomniaChinese:  https://www.mindbodygarden.com/shimian Podcast Links: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-into-sleep/id1475295840Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/search/deepintosleepStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/deep-into-sleepSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Vxyyj9Cswuk91OYztzcMSiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-deep-into-sleep-47827108/Support our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dryishanLeave us a Rating:...

    57 min
  7. 03/20/2025

    Ep202: The Science Behind Sleep: Debunking Myths and Embracing Healthier Sleep Habits with Stephanie Romiszewski

    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 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!  Connect with Dr. Yishan Instagram: @dr.yishanTwitter: @dryishanFacebook:@dr.yishan Connect with Stephanie Romiszewski Instagram -@stephsleepyheadhttps://www.sleepyheadclinic.co.uk/stephanie-romiszewski-sleep-expert/ Newsletter and Download Free Sleep Guidence E-Book: https://www.mindbodygarden.com/sleep CBT-I Courses: English: https://www.deepintosleep.co/insomniaChinese:  https://www.mindbodygarden.com/shimian Podcast Links: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-into-sleep/id1475295840Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/search/deepintosleepStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/deep-into-sleepSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Vxyyj9Cswuk91OYztzcMSiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-deep-into-sleep-47827108/Support our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dryishanLeave us a Rating:...

    46 min
  8. 02/27/2025

    Ep201: Choosing the Right Mattress: Tips for Improved Sleep Quality and Comfort with Derek Hales

    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 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!  Connect with Dr. Yishan Instagram: @dr.yishanTwitter: @dryishanFacebook:@dr.yishan Connect with Derek Hales https://naplab.com/https://www.youtube.com/@NapLabReviews Newsletter and Download Free Sleep Guidence E-Book: https://www.mindbodygarden.com/sleep CBT-I Courses: English: https://www.deepintosleep.co/insomniaChinese:  https://www.mindbodygarden.com/shimian Podcast Links: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-into-sleep/id1475295840Google Podcast: https://podcasts.google.com/search/deepintosleepStitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/show/deep-into-sleepSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Vxyyj9Cswuk91OYztzcMSiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-deep-into-sleep-47827108/Support our Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dryishanLeave us a Rating: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deep-into-sleep/id1475295840 If you're interested in learning more about psychological testing and the services offered at the MindBodyGarden make sure to visit their website at a href="https://mindbodygarden.com/AssessmentClinic." rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    48 min
5
out of 5
33 Ratings

About

Are you worried about your sleep and health? Are you bothered by lack of sleep or fatigue? Are you suffering from insomnia, sleep apnea, or other sleep disorders? Do you feel your sleep difficulties are getting in the way of being successful, happy, and motivated? Deep into Sleep podcast is here to assist you find the answers. Dr. Yishan Xu is a licensed clinical psychologist, board-certified behavioral sleep medicine sleep specialist, and adjunct clinical faculty at Stanford School of Medicine, Sleep Division. Dr. Xu explores inspiring conversations with guests from various fields, small business owners, students, parents, entrepreneurs, doctors, mental health workers, and more. With knowledge and tips around sleep, health, business, lifestyle, and relationship, you will discover more about yourself, which leads to a healthier mindset and the life you desire. ©DeepintoSleepPodcast 2026. These materials may be downloaded for personal use only. They may not be shared, distributed, or reproduced in any form or for any reason without express permission 👀SUBSCRIBE OUR EMAIL NEWSLETTER https://www.mindbodygarden.com/sleep 📝CHECK OUT THE SHOW NOTES https://deepintosleep.co ✨CONNECT WITH US https://www.instagram.com/dr.yishan https://twitter.com/dryishan