The Matt Walker Podcast

Matt delves into Heart Rate Variability (HRV), the subtle variation in timing between each heartbeat. He explains that a healthy heart is like a "jazz drummer," not a rigid metronome, and a higher HRV reflects a resilient body that can adeptly balance its stress and rest systems. This episode unpacks the science behind HRV and explores the actionable strategies you can employ to improve this critical marker of your overall health. Matt then explores the key lifestyle factors that significantly influence your HRV. He highlights sleep as the most powerful tool for nightly recalibration, explaining how even moderate sleep loss can suppress HRV. The discussion also covers how exercise, especially HIIT, boosts adaptability, and how stress management techniques can calm the system's "static noise." Finally, he touches on the importance of a consistent circadian rhythm and avoiding substances like alcohol to protect your heart’s healthy variability. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. Craving more energy, better metabolism, and immunity? Discover Pique's Nandaka, a ceremonial cacao superfood blend for calm, sustained energy without the crash. Thanks to this wonderful podcast partner, you can now get 20% off for life at pique.com/mattwalker using code MattWalker. In a supplement industry where trust is critical, Matt uses podcast supporter Puori. Their protein powders are free from hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, with every single batch third-party tested for over 200 contaminants. For protein you can trust, save 20% at puori.com/mattwalker. Another partner, AG1, is one that Matt relies upon for his foundational nutrition. Their new science-backed Next Gen formula features upgraded probiotics, vitamins, and minerals. Start your subscription today to get a FREE bottle of Vitamin D3+K2 and 5 free travel packs with your first order at drinkag1.com/mattwalker. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg

Diving into the controversial world of Modafinil, the "all-nighter in a pill", Matt begins with the story of Olympic sprinters using the narcolepsy drug as a loophole for a competitive edge. He then unpacks the science of how Modafinil affects brain chemistry to boost wakefulness and cognition, tracing its evolution from a medical treatment to a performance enhancer for the military, Wall Street, and students, all attempting to push human limits by cheating sleep. Despite its potent effects, Modafinil carries significant risks and ethical dilemmas. Matt discusses its side effects, potential for psychological dependency, and the unknowns of long-term use. The episode examines complex questions of fairness and the potential for "cognitive inequality." Ultimately, Matt argues that while the drug masks fatigue, it cannot replace the vital restorative functions of natural sleep. The "sleep debt" must eventually be repaid, as true well-being depends on this biological necessity, not a pill. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. One of this week's sponsors, LMNT, offers a science-based electrolyte drink with no sugar or artificial ingredients. Try their new limited-time Lemonade Salt flavor, available May 20th! Get eight free sample packs with any order at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. Stock up on this summer flavor while it lasts! Another sponsor, David, is a revolutionary new protein bar developed with Dr. Peter Attia. It boasts an unbeatable ratio: 28g of protein and 0g of sugar in just 150 calories. Incredibly satiating with six amazing flavors, it’s perfect for muscle health. Visit davidprotein.com/mattwalker and buy 4 cartons to get a 5th FREE! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299

Matt explores the fascinating world of synesthesia today, challenging the notion that it's a rare quirk by proposing a bold claim: in subtle ways, we are all synesthetes. This idea is powerfully demonstrated by the famous "Bouba/Kiki" test, which reveals our brain's innate tendency to connect abstract shapes and sounds. The episode argues that this fundamental cross-wiring is not a mere curiosity but the very operating system for human thought, shaping everything from our metaphors to the development of language itself. The journey continues by exploring how these sensory perceptions can be programmed externally, as shown in a remarkable study linking synesthetes' color associations to a popular Fisher-Price toy. Matt also discusses the cognitive superpowers that can accompany synesthesia, like superior memory, and its profound connection to autism. Ultimately, the episode illuminates how everyday phrases like "feeling blue" are not just figures of speech, but echoes of the synesthetic software running in all our brains, constantly mixing senses to build our unique perception of reality. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. Craving more energy, better metabolism, and immunity? Discover Pique's Nandaka, a ceremonial cacao superfood blend for calm, sustained energy without the crash. Thanks to this wonderful podcast partner, you can now get 20% off for life at pique.com/mattwalker using code MattWalker. In a supplement industry where trust is critical, Matt uses podcast supporter Puori. Their protein powders are free from hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, with every single batch third-party tested for over 200 contaminants. For protein you can trust, save 20% at puori.com/mattwalker. Podcast partner UPLIFT Desk helps Matt combat the drain of sitting all day. By making it easy to switch between sitting and standing, he stays active and focused, boosting his energy and wellbeing. You can enjoy these many benefits, too, by visiting upliftdesk.com/MATTWALKER and using code MATTWALKER for a special discount and free accessories. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg

Framing sleep not as a biological necessity, but as a critical economic asset, Matt reveals that sleep deprivation costs the U.S. economy up to $411 billion annually, with billions more lost globally. These costs stem from lost workplace productivity, severe cognitive impairment equivalent to intoxication, and massive strains on healthcare and public safety systems due to chronic disease and accidents like drowsy driving. Matt provides the solution: investing in sleep as a powerful economic stimulus. Modest improvements in sleep duration could inject hundreds of billions back into the economy, with corporate sleep programs and insomnia treatments showing remarkable returns on investment. On a personal level, adequate sleep is directly linked to higher lifetime earnings and better financial decisions. The episode ultimately reframes sleep as a crucial economic investment for both personal and societal prosperity, not a sacrifice of productivity. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. As a huge supporter of mission-driven companies, Matt recommends new partner Branch Basics. Their plant- and mineral-based ‘The Concentrate’ is tough on kitchen grease yet gentle enough for baby toys, helping you create a toxin-free home. Get 15% off with code MattWalker at branchbasics.com/mattwalker. Another of this week's sponsors, LMNT, offers a science-based electrolyte drink with no sugar or artificial ingredients. Try their new limited-time Lemonade Salt flavor, available May 20th! Get eight free sample packs with any order at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. Stock up on this summer flavor while it lasts! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg

In this user's guide to sleep trackers, learn the science behind how they work using motion and optical sensors as Matt explains the key metrics of Sensitivity, Specificity, and Accuracy. Revealing why most trackers overestimate sleep by failing to detect wakefulness, he reveals the crucial difference between a device's flawed "absolute accuracy" and its more valuable "relative accuracy," which highlights the importance of tracking long-term trends over single-night scores. Matt goes on to examine peer-reviewed data on the Oura Ring, Apple Watch, and Whoop, and introduces the highly accurate, FDA-cleared Happy Ring with its personalized algorithm. Beyond the specs, learn why consistency and form factor are more important than chasing perfect accuracy. The episode also covers the pitfalls of tracking, from the anxiety of "Orthosomnia" to demographic biases in sensor tech, providing a complete guide to choosing and using your device effectively. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. Podcast partner, AG1, is one that Matt relies upon for his foundational nutrition. Their new science-backed Next Gen formula features upgraded probiotics, vitamins, and minerals. Start your subscription today to get a FREE bottle of Vitamin D3+K2 and 5 free travel packs with your first order at drinkag1.com/mattwalker. Another sponsor, Shopify, made launching Matt's merchandise incredibly smooth with its integrated sales system. Shopify simplifies everything from online stores to in-person sales. Start your exclusive trial and see for yourself at shopify.com/mattwalker. In a supplement industry where trust is critical, Matt uses podcast partner Puori. Their protein powders are free from hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, with every single batch third-party tested for over 200 contaminants. For protein you can trust, save 20% at puori.com/mattwalker. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg

Matt takes a deep dive into REM sleep this week, highlighting methods to enhance this vital stage for emotional regulation and creativity. Detailing pharmacological approaches, he focuses on the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and how medications like donepezil and modern DORAs can boost REM sleep, while also identifying common suppressors like alcohol and THC. Throughout the episode, he also emphasizes that the goal is not to maximize one stage but to achieve a balanced sleep architecture. The discussion then covers behavioral and lifestyle strategies, explaining how simple changes like sleeping later into the morning, regular exercise, and stress management can remove natural roadblocks to REM. Matt also outlines how managing light exposure - by avoiding blue light at night and getting bright light in the morning - and consuming complex carbohydrates in the evening can further support this dream stage. Finally, the episode touches on emerging technologies like electrical brain stimulation that aim to amplify the brain's natural REM rhythms. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. One of this week's sponsors, LMNT, offers a science-based electrolyte drink with no sugar or artificial ingredients. Try their new limited-time Lemonade Salt flavor, available May 20th! Get eight free sample packs with any order at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. Stock up on this summer flavor while it lasts! Another sponsor, Shopify, made launching Matt's merchandise incredibly smooth with its integrated sales system. Shopify simplifies everything from online stores to in-person sales. Start your exclusive trial and see for yourself at shopify.com/mattwalker. Our third sponsor this week, David, is a revolutionary new protein bar developed with Dr. Peter Attia. It boasts an unbeatable ratio: 28g of protein and 0g of sugar in just 150 calories. Incredibly satiating with six amazing flavors, it’s perfect for muscle health. Visit davidprotein.com/mattwalker and buy 4 cartons to get a 5th FREE! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299

In this soothing episode, Matt guides you on your personal sleep story towards deep, restorative rest. He invites you to find comfort and release the day's worries through intentional breathing, transporting you to a cozy, imagined haven bathed in soft lights and calming aromas. As twilight descends, experience the tranquil silence and the moon's gentle glow, replacing any turmoil with profound inner peace. A powerful visualization encourages you to shed thoughts and concerns, picturing them as leaves floating away on a serene river. This practice cultivates gratitude and prepares you to let go completely. Trust that tomorrow brings new joys, and allow yourself to drift effortlessly into sleep, waking up truly refreshed and restored. Craving more energy, better metabolism, and immunity? Discover Pique's Nandaka, a ceremonial cacao superfood blend for calm, sustained energy without the crash. Thanks to this wonderful podcast partner, you can now get 20% off for life at pique.com/mattwalker using code MattWalker. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt or Eti: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299

In this week’s episode, Matt Walker explores memory's astonishing malleability, challenging the belief that recollections are fixed. He highlights Loftus's car crash study, showing how subtle language altered speed memories and implanted false details, and reviews the "Lost in the Mall" experiment which proved fabricated autobiographical memories can be instilled. Matt also notes that neuroimaging reveals false and true memory patterns in the hippocampus are remarkably similar, underscoring memory's deceptive, fluid nature, rather than a factual archive. Our host goes on to discuss groundbreaking research like optogenetics from Tonegawa's lab, demonstrating manipulation to implant false fear memories at a cellular level. This underpins "memory reconsolidation" by Karim Nader, showing retrieved memories enter a "labile window" for modification. This opens profound avenues for therapies: Image Rehearsal Therapy for nightmares and propranolol for PTSD effectively weaken emotional trauma. The episode concludes by suggesting identity, objective truth, and forgiveness are dynamic, neurologically modifiable constructs, not static realities. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. Podcast partner and sponsor, Shopify, made launching Matt's merchandise incredibly smooth with its integrated sales system. Shopify simplifies everything from online stores to in-person sales. Start your exclusive trial and see for yourself at shopify.com/mattwalker. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg

Founder & CEO of Elevated Medical, Dr. Avinish Reddy, joins Matt today on this very special episode to discuss a comprehensive approach to longevity. One core theme presented is the profound interconnectedness of physical, mental, and cognitive well-being, essential for true health optimization. Dr. Reddy emphasizes the striking impact of social connection: isolation can increase early death risk by 50%, comparable to smoking. He believes fostering strong social bonds is a fundamental pillar of healthcare, akin to sleep's importance. The discussion highlights advanced diagnostics and actionable lifestyle strategies. Dr. Reddy advocates for precise cardiovascular risk assessment (apoB) and early metabolic dysfunction detection (fasting insulin/OGTT), with imaging (CT/CIMT) that visualizes arterial health proactively. As you will hear, prevention must begin decades before major health events, utilizing personalized data, and lifestyle is paramount - consistent movement, balanced nutrition, quality sleep, and stress management are vital for reversing conditions and fostering resilience. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. As a huge supporter of mission-driven companies, Matt recommends new partner Branch Basics. Their plant- and mineral-based ‘The Concentrate’ is tough on kitchen grease yet gentle enough for baby toys, helping you create a toxin-free home. Get 15% off with code MattWalker at branchbasics.com/mattwalker. Craving more energy, better metabolism, and immunity? Discover Pique's Nandaka, a ceremonial cacao superfood blend for calm, sustained energy without the crash. Thanks to this wonderful podcast partner, you can now get 20% off for life at pique.com/mattwalker using code MattWalker. In a supplement industry where trust is critical, Matt uses podcast supporter Puori. Their protein powders are free from hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, with every single batch third-party tested for over 200 contaminants. For protein you can trust, save 20% at puori.com/mattwalker. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg Connect with Dr. Avinish Reddy: Elevated Medical: https://elevatedmedical.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avinishreddy/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avinishreddymd/

In this latest AMA instalment, Matt and Dr. Eti Ben Simon begin by discussing environmental influences on sleep. The conversation covers how high latitude and prolonged daylight disrupt circadian rhythms, with Eti sharing her own personal experience. Together, our duo shares strategies for managing light exposure and regulating core body temperature with methods like warm baths. The episode also offers evidence-based approaches for shift workers, including strategic napping and forward-rotating schedules. The discussion then shifts to internal mechanisms, debunking the "sleep before midnight" myth and emphasizing alignment with one's chronotype. The role of the thalamus as a sensory gate for blocking pain during sleep is detailed, with Eti noting that meaningful stimuli can still break through this barrier. Finally, the use of Gabapentin is examined, outlining its limited efficacy for primary insomnia versus conditions like restless legs syndrome. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. Partner of the podcast, AG1, is one sponsor that Matt relies upon for his foundational nutrition. Their new science-backed Next Gen formula features upgraded probiotics, vitamins, and minerals. Start your subscription today to get a FREE bottle of Vitamin D3+K2 and 5 free travel packs with your first order at drinkag1.com/mattwalker. Another of this week's sponsors, David, is a revolutionary new protein bar developed with Dr. Peter Attia. It boasts an unbeatable ratio: 28g of protein and 0g of sugar in just 150 calories. Incredibly satiating with six amazing flavors, it’s perfect for muscle health. Buy yours today at davidprotein.com/mattwalker and buy 4 cartons to get a 5th FREE! If they’re not already sold out, you can also find them at a local store using the store locator—or on Amazon. Our third sponsor this week, LMNT, offers a science-based electrolyte drink with no sugar or artificial ingredients. Try their new limited-time Lemonade Salt flavor, available May 20th! Get eight free sample packs with any order at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. Stock up on this summer flavor while it lasts! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299 Eti: X @etoosh, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eti_bensimon/, or email at etoosh@gmail.com

Matt explores the critical link between sleep and Alzheimer's disease today, explaining how the brain’s "glymphatic system" clears toxic proteins like amyloid and tau during deep sleep. He describes how insufficient sleep impairs this process, creating a vicious cycle where protein accumulation damages sleep-generating brain regions and increases dementia risk. Matt goes on to discuss groundbreaking research on a new class of sleeping pills, Dual Orexin Receptor Antagonists (DORAs), that may enhance this cleaning mechanism. While preliminary human and animal studies show these drugs can reduce toxic proteins and offer neuroprotection, the findings underscore the profound importance of prioritizing high-quality sleep as a powerful, accessible tool for ensuring long-term brain health. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. One of this week's sponsors, LMNT, offers a science-based electrolyte drink with no sugar or artificial ingredients. Try their new limited-time Lemonade Salt flavor, available May 20th! Get eight free sample packs with any order at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. Stock up on this summer flavor while it lasts! Another sponsor, Shopify, made launching Matt's merchandise incredibly smooth with its integrated sales system. Shopify simplifies everything from online stores to in-person sales. Start your exclusive trial and see for yourself at shopify.com/mattwalker. In a supplement industry where trust is critical, Matt uses podcast partner Puori. Their protein powders are free from hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, with every single batch third-party tested for over 200 contaminants. For protein you can trust, save 20% at puori.com/mattwalker. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg

Matt and Dr. Eti Ben Simon join forces once again to answer all of your top sleep questions. This time around, they break down the science behind the snooze button, why you might be falling asleep during passive activities like watching TV, and the truth about sleep fads like consuming salt before bed or using "grounding sheets." The episode also explores the frustrating issue of sleep fragmentation - waking up multiple times a night - and why it undermines sleep quality even if you fall back asleep quickly. Learn how to assess your own sleep quality using key daytime indicators like energy and mood, without needing a tracker. For those struggling with frequent awakenings, discover a powerful, science-backed strategy called "bedtime restructuring" to help consolidate your sleep. The episode concludes with a look at new research on a potential "fail-safe" for sleep induction linked to mitochondrial stress, revealing a new frontier in sleep science. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. As a huge supporter of mission-driven companies, Matt recommends new partner Branch Basics. Their plant- and mineral-based ‘The Concentrate’ is tough on kitchen grease yet gentle enough for baby toys, helping you create a toxin-free home. Get 15% off with code MattWalker at branchbasics.com/mattwalker. Another sponsor, Shopify, made launching Matt's merchandise incredibly smooth with its integrated sales system. Shopify simplifies everything from online stores to in-person sales. Start your exclusive trial and see for yourself at shopify.com/mattwalker. A third sponsor this week, LMNT, offers a science-based electrolyte drink with no sugar or artificial ingredients. Try their new limited-time Lemonade Salt flavor, available May 20th! Get eight free sample packs with any order at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. Stock up on this summer flavor while it lasts! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt or Eti: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299 Eti: X @etoosh, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eti_bensimon/, or email at etoosh@gmail.com

In this episode, Matt delves into the curious and cautionary tale of Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide (DSIP), once hailed as a potential miracle cure for insomnia. In the 1970s, researchers were on a quest for a single "somnogenic molecule" that could act as the brain's natural sleep switch. A Swiss team believed they had found it, isolating a peptide that appeared to rapidly induce deep, slow-wave sleep when injected into animals. This initial excitement led to bold claims and sparked decades of research into what seemed to be a revolutionary breakthrough in sleep science. However, the promising discovery soon began to unravel under closer scientific scrutiny. Red flags emerged, including the inability to find the gene that coded for DSIP and the peptide's extreme fragility, which prevented it from effectively reaching the brain. When rigorous, placebo-controlled human trials were finally conducted, the results were profoundly disappointing, showing no significant clinical benefit over a placebo. Ultimately, the story of DSIP serves as a powerful lesson on the dangers of scientific overconfidence, the critical importance of replication and skepticism, and the profound complexity of sleep regulation, reminding us that there is no single "magic bullet" for a good night's sleep. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. In a supplement industry where trust is critical, Matt uses podcast partner Puori. Their protein powders are free from hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, with every single batch third-party tested for over 200 contaminants. For protein you can trust, save 20% at puori.com/mattwalker. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg

Matt explores the human capacity for echolocation this week, dismantling the myth that this "biological sonar" is exclusive to animals. Revealing how peer-reviewed research shows all human brains possess the neural hardware to "see" with sound, Matt explains the physics of how sound creates detailed acoustic maps of our environment and introduces the brain's remarkable plasticity, setting the stage for this incredible sensory adaptation. The episode features stories of pioneers like Daniel Kish, who use echolocation to navigate with astonishing precision. Matt discusses groundbreaking studies from UC Berkeley and Durham University, where brain scans revealed the visual cortex rewires itself to process sound as spatial information. This evidence proves echolocation is not a rare gift but a learnable skill, forcing a reevaluation of the limits of human perception and the brain's adaptive power. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. As a huge supporter of mission-driven companies, Matt recommends new partner Branch Basics. Their plant- and mineral-based ‘The Concentrate’ is tough on kitchen grease yet gentle enough for baby toys, helping you create a toxin-free home. Get 15% off with code MattWalker at branchbasics.com/mattwalker. Another partner, AG1, is one that Matt relies upon for his foundational nutrition. Their new science-backed Next Gen formula features upgraded probiotics, vitamins, and minerals. Start your subscription today to get a FREE bottle of Vitamin D3+K2 and 5 free travel packs with your first order at drinkag1.com/mattwalker. In a supplement industry where trust is critical, Matt uses podcast partner Puori. Their protein powders are free from hormones, GMOs, and pesticides, with every single batch third-party tested for over 200 contaminants. For protein you can trust, save 20% at puori.com/mattwalker. As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA3FB1fOtY4Vd8yqLaUvolg

While we've long been told to focus on the quantity of our sleep, in today’s episode, Matt suggests a paradigm shift in our understanding of sleep health. He argues that the true cornerstone may not be how many hours we get, but the consistency of our sleep schedule. This concept of regularity - maintaining a stable bedtime and wake-time - is presented as the most impactful of four key sleep components, which also include the more familiar aspects of quantity, quality, and timing. Matt supports this perspective with findings from a groundbreaking study that objectively tracked the sleep of nearly 90,000 people. The results are stunning: inconsistent sleep rhythms, independent of total sleep time, were linked to a significantly increased risk for a vast array of serious diseases. This research also upends the long-held belief that "too much" sleep is unhealthy. It revealed that many self-proclaimed long sleepers are actually experiencing poor, fragmented sleep, a fact hidden by less reliable self-reported data. The implication is profound: the true culprit for their associated health risks is likely not the extended time in bed, but the underlying lack of a stable, restorative sleep rhythm. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. One of this week's sponsors, LMNT, offers a science-based electrolyte drink with no sugar or artificial ingredients. Try their new limited-time Lemonade Salt flavor, available May 20th! Get eight free sample packs with any order at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. Stock up on this summer flavor while it lasts! Another sponsor, Shopify, made launching Matt's merchandise incredibly smooth with its integrated sales system. Shopify simplifies everything from online stores to in-person sales. Start your exclusive trial and see for yourself at shopify.com/mattwalker. Our third sponsor this week, David, is a revolutionary new protein bar developed with Dr. Peter Attia. It boasts an unbeatable ratio: 28g of protein and 0g of sugar in just 150 calories. Incredibly satiating with six amazing flavors, it’s perfect for muscle health. Visit davidprotein.com/mattwalker and buy 4 cartons to get a 5th FREE! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299

Settle in for a deeply comforting experience as Matt returns with a gentle voyage aboard "The Dreamer." This sleep story is crafted to soothe the heart and quiet the mind, creating a perfect sanctuary for rest. Tonight, we journey to a peaceful, seaside village to meet Henry, an elderly widower whose sleepless nights are filled with a profound sense of loss and treasured memories of his late wife, Margaret. As Henry steps onto the boat, feeling the weight of his grief begin to soften with the rhythmic sway of the waves, Matt's words paint a picture of a starlit ocean and a secluded, tranquil island, transporting you to a place of healing. As Henry is guided toward a tender reunion and finds the deep, restorative peace that has long escaped him, allow this story to carry you to your own state of profound, restful slumber. Tired of untrustworthy protein shakes? Show sponsor Puori prioritizes quality: hormone-free, GMO-free, and pesticide-free. Every batch is third-party tested for 200+ contaminants - you can even scan the QR code for lab results! Matt recommends the addictive dark chocolate flavor with 21g of protein. Ready to experience the Puori difference? Matt’s listeners get 20% off, so visit puori.com/mattwalker today! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt or Eti: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299

This week, Matt examines the viral trend of mouth taping, a practice touted as a remedy for snoring and sleep apnea. He explains the core theory, which centers on promoting the benefits of nasal over mouth breathing, before critically assessing whether this popular ritual is a scientifically sound solution or a risky trend whose dangers are lost amidst the online hype. Matt navigates the scientific evidence, revealing a cautionary tale: while preliminary data suggests a potential benefit for a select group with mild obstructive sleep apnea, he sounds a marked alarm for those with moderate to severe conditions. For this latter group, mouth taping can be dangerous, potentially worsening airway obstruction by blocking a necessary escape valve for air. Our host also warns that you must never tape an infant or young child's mouth, and to always skip taping if you have a cold or severe allergies. He concludes that for most, the practice is unproven with unknown long-term safety, and the hype has far outpaced the data, making a cautious approach and professional medical consultation essential. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. One of our sponsors this week is the biochemical electrolyte drink company LMNT, and they are very kindly offering eight free sample packs when you purchase any one of their orders at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. LMNT is an electrolyte sports drink that I can get behind - it's created from the basis of science, and it has no sugar, no coloring, and no artificial ingredients – all qualities that are so important to maintaining your blood biochemical balance. And now their new Lemonade Salt is squeezing onto the scene Tuesday, May 20th! This limited-time flavor is here to keep you at your best all summer long, and, just like summer, it’s here for a good time, not a long time, so stock up while supplies last! If you want to give Lemonade Salt or any of the fantastic LMNT flavors a try, just head on over to drinklmnt.com/mattwalker and get your free Sample Pack with your first purchase. Matt will be the first to tell you that launching his sleep-related merchandise sales was incredibly smooth, thanks to our new sponsor Shopify and their integrated sales and inventory system. And now, just for you, Shopify is generously offering an exclusive trial at shopify.com/mattwalker. Whether it's online or in-person sales, Shopify simplifies it all. So, be sure to stop in at shopify.com/mattwalker to start your exclusive journey now! Matt’s good friend Dr. Peter Attia has helped develop David, a revolutionary new protein bar, and a sponsor of today’s episode! 28g of protein, 0g sugar, only 150 calories – the best ratio EVER! Amazing taste, six flavors, incredibly satiating, and a great source of the protein that helps build muscle, manage metabolic health, and keep you full. Visit davidprotein.com/mattwalker now for an amazing deal: Buy 4 cartons, and get a 5th FREE! . Hurry! Your new favorite protein bar awaits! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299

In their latest Ask Me Anything episode, Matt and Dr. Eti Ben Simon delve into the complex relationship between common substances and sleep. They first tackle cannabis, explaining that while THC may initially help with sleep onset, its chronic use is detrimental, leading to tolerance, withdrawal insomnia, and a powerful suppression of restorative REM sleep. The discussion then moves to two other major sleep disruptors: caffeine and alcohol. You'll learn how caffeine's long half-life can reduce deep sleep by up to 40% even when consumed in the afternoon, and how alcohol, despite its sedative properties, severely fragments sleep and decimates the quantity and quality of your nightly dream sleep. The conversation then explores more novel compounds and strategies, starting with a practical bio-hack, the "nappuccino," a precisely timed combination of coffee and a short nap to maximize alertness. From there, the hosts dive into the fascinating world of psychedelics, revealing how drugs like LSD and psilocybin act as potent wake-promoting agents that disrupt sleep before causing a significant "REM sleep rebound" on subsequent nights. They contrast this with ketamine, a dissociative that uniquely increases deep slow-wave sleep, potentially explaining its antidepressant effects. The episode concludes by looking at the intricate and largely unexplored role sleep plays in the therapeutic journey of these powerful psychoactive compounds. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. Matt will be the first to tell you that launching his sleep-related merchandise sales was incredibly smooth, thanks to our new sponsor Shopify and their integrated sales and inventory system. And now, just for you, Shopify is generously offering an exclusive trial at shopify.com/mattwalker. Whether it's online or in-person sales, Shopify simplifies it all. So, be sure to stop in at shopify.com/mattwalker to start your exclusive journey now! Having personally used and purchased AG1 for over four years, Matt encourages you to try the new AG1 Next Gen formula with upgraded probiotics plus additional vitamins and minerals. Backed by 4 human clinical trials demonstrating a boost in healthy gut bacteria, AG1 continuously adapts to the latest science. Subscribe today and receive a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 welcome kit, and 5 upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order. Visit drinkag1.com/mattwalker to learn more and get started on your health journey. Tired of untrustworthy protein shakes? Show sponsor Puori prioritizes quality: hormone-free, GMO-free, and pesticide-free. Every batch is third-party tested for 200+ contaminants - you can even scan the QR code for lab results! Matt recommends the addictive dark chocolate flavor with 21g of protein. Ready to experience the Puori difference? Matt’s listeners get 20% off, so visit puori.com/mattwalker today! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt or Eti: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299 Eti: X @etoosh, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/eti_bensimon/, or email at etoosh@gmail.com

Matt welcomes UCSF sleep expert Dr. Aric Prather to the podcast this week to discuss the science of psychoneuroimmunology: the link between our behavior and immune health. After a primer on the immune system’s innate and adaptive arms, Dr. Prather details how insufficient sleep dramatically increases your risk of catching a cold, significantly blunts vaccine effectiveness by reducing antibody response, and promotes a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation - a known pathway to numerous age-related diseases. Ultimately, the conversation illuminates a profound and actionable truth: sleep is arguably our most powerful, yet tragically overlooked, weapon in the daily battle for immunological health. Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way. One of our sponsors this week is the biochemical electrolyte drink company LMNT, and they are very kindly offering eight free sample packs when you purchase any one of their orders at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker. LMNT is an electrolyte sports drink that I can get behind - it's created from the basis of science, and it has no sugar, no coloring, and no artificial ingredients – all qualities that are so important to maintaining your blood biochemical balance. And now their new Lemonade Salt is squeezing onto the scene Tuesday, May 20th! This limited-time flavor is here to keep you at your best all summer long, and, just like summer, it’s here for a good time, not a long time, so stock up while supplies last! If you want to give Lemonade Salt or any of the fantastic LMNT flavors a try, just head on over to drinklmnt.com/mattwalker and get your free Sample Pack with your first purchase. Matt will be the first to tell you that launching his sleep-related merchandise sales was incredibly smooth, thanks to our new sponsor Shopify and their integrated sales and inventory system. And now, just for you, Shopify is generously offering an exclusive trial at shopify.com/mattwalker. Whether it's online or in-person sales, Shopify simplifies it all. So, be sure to stop in at shopify.com/mattwalker to start your exclusive journey now! Matt’s good friend Dr. Peter Attia has helped develop David, a revolutionary new protein bar, and a sponsor of today’s episode! 28g of protein, 0g sugar, only 150 calories – the best ratio EVER! Amazing taste, six flavors, incredibly satiating, and a great source of the protein that helps build muscle, manage metabolic health, and keep you full. Visit davidprotein.com/mattwalker now for an amazing deal: Buy 4 cartons, and get a 5th FREE! . Hurry! Your new favorite protein bar awaits! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out: Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker, X @sleepdiplomat, YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299 Dr. Aric Prather: https://www.aricprather.com/

Prepare for a tranquil journey into sleep as Matt returns with a voyage aboard "The Dreamer." Let go of the day's events and allow your mind to quiet as we travel to a busy coastal town. Tonight, you’ll meet Sophia, a painter whose vibrant and expressive works reflect the world around her, yet finds her own nights restless and her mind unable to settle. Her creativity is blocked and her thoughts race, keeping peaceful sleep just out of reach. Just as she sits by her window, watching the waves, a familiar, gentle vessel appears: The Dreamer. It has sensed her need for rest and has come to carry her away from the chaos. Join Sophia as she steps aboard, feeling the worries of the day begin to dissolve with the gentle motion of the boat. Let the vivid imagery of a secluded, moonlit cove and the soothing rhythm of lapping waves guide you toward your own state of deep calm. As Sophia finds profound peace and a restorative night’s sleep, allow this narrative to do the same for you, quieting your mind and carrying you to a place of deep, restful slumber. Matt will be the first to tell you that launching his sleep-related merchandise sales was incredibly smooth, thanks to our new sponsor Shopify and their integrated sales and inventory system. And now, just for you, Shopify is generously offering an exclusive trial at shopify.com/mattwalker. Whether it's online or in-person sales, Shopify simplifies it all. So, be sure to stop in at shopify.com/mattwalker to start your exclusive journey now! As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt on Instagram. Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker or on X @sleepdiplomat YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@sleepdiplomatmattwalker9299