As 2025 comes to an end, this special episode of Deep Into Sleep is a reflection on what a year of conversations has taught me about sleep, the brain, and the people who trust us with their nights.

Rather than focusing on a single sleep disorder, this episode brings together four meaningful conversations that shaped how I now think about sleep across the lifespan—from childhood to adulthood, from behavior to biology.

In this episode, we explore:

Sleep terrors are often misunderstood and deeply frightening for parents.

In this episode, I share key insights from a conversation with pediatric sleep expert Dr. Sarah Honaker.

Nightmares are common—but nightmare disorder is not something people have to live with forever. In my conversation with Dr. Courtney Worley, we discussed some myths around nightmares.

One key takeaway: improving sleep often starts during the day, not at night.

Several conversations this year reinforced one critical message: snoring is not benign. In my discussion with sleep physician Dr. Christopher Allen, we covered why sleep apnea has been described as a “slow killer”—not dramatic, but silent. We also discuss treatment options, including CPAP, and other options, emphasizing the importance of individualized care.

In an upcoming episode with Dr. Kendall Stewart, we explore sleep through the lens of genetics and neurochemistry. When we stop guessing and start tailoring treatment to the individual, sleep care becomes more effective—and more humane.

This year also brought an unexpected moment of gratitude: being named “Sleep Podcast of the Year” by Dr. Chris Winter on his podcast Sleep Unplugged.

I don’t take that recognition lightly. It belongs to every guest who shared their expertise, every listener who trusted this space, and every patient who reminds me why sleep education matters.

If this episode helps you understand your sleep—or your child’s sleep—just a little better, then it has done its job.

Thank you for going deep into sleep with me.

1. 00:00 – Opening: Why a Year-End Reflection on Sleep
2. 01:15 – Gratitude & “Sleep Podcast of the Year” Moment
3. 02:20 – What Parents Misunderstand About Children’s Sleep Terrors
4. 05:00 – Nightmares: Common, Treatable, and Not a Life Sentence
5. 07:45 – Snoring Is Not Benign: Sleep Apnea and Brain Health
6. 11:00 – Precision, Not Guesswork: Biology + Behavior in Sleep Care
7. 13:20 – 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