Shows
A Stroll Through the LibraryThe Church Fathers, Understanding that God is on Your Side, and Joshua Ryan Butler's Favorite BooksIn this episode of "A Stroll Through the Library," host Matt Walker Thrift welcomes author and pastor Joshua Ryan Butler. They dive into Joshua's journey with literature, from childhood favorites like "The Lord of the Rings" to the profound impact of "The Ragamuffin Gospel" on his faith. Joshua shares insights from his latest book, "God is on Your Side," exploring the depth of theological concepts in the Gospel of John and the balance of vulnerability in storytelling. Join them for a thoughtful conversation on grace, resilience, and the transformative power of narrative.Make sure to check out...
2025-11-111h 20
A Stroll Through the LibraryArt, Literature, and Revelation with Shane J. WoodIn this episode of "A Stroll Through the Library," host Matt Walker Thrift engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Shane J. Wood, a scholar and professor of New Testament and its origins at Ozark Christian College. They delve into Shane's book, "Thinning the Veil," exploring its insights on Revelation and discussing the profound impact of literature on personal faith journeys. The discussion touches on the intersection of art, theology, and vulnerability, offering listeners a rich tapestry of ideas to ponder. Join us for an enlightening dialogue that challenges conventional perspectives and invites deeper reflection on the mysteries of faith.
2025-10-281h 02
A Stroll Through the LibraryTolkien's World, Geo-Politics, and Christopher Haylett's Favorite Books - @thenerdychristianIn this engaging episode of "A Stroll Through the Library," host Matt Walker Thrift sits down with Chris Haylett, known as "The Nerdy Christian" on Instagram, for a thought-provoking conversation. They delve into topics ranging from the influence of literature on faith to navigating the complexities of modern Christian culture. Despite a brief audio glitch around the 37-minute mark, the episode offers rich insights and reflections on how fiction can shape our understanding of spirituality and community. Tune in for a journey through books, beliefs, and the pursuit of truth.Make sure to follow Christopher...
2025-10-1458 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#110 - The Science Behind Wearable Sleep MonitoringIn 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...
2025-10-131h 02
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #14 - Harry O'Reilly (Actor, Writer, Producer)In this heartfelt episode of The Pie Guy Podcast, host Matt Walker catches up with his cousin's cousin, Brooklyn native Harry O'Reilly—a veteran actor, director, and writer with over 30 years in Hollywood. From his breakout as Pvt. Michael Duffy in the gritty Vietnam War drama Hamburger Hill (1987) to dishing witty banter as Wes McGregor in the Gen-X rom-com Reality Bites (1994), Harry's career highlights include channeling deadpan frustration as Steven's boss opposite Jim Carrey in The Cable Guy (1996) and suiting up as Special Agent Dansk in the ensemble heist flick Tower Heist (2011).The two dive into Harry's at...
2025-10-101h 32
A Stroll Through the LibraryFully Seen, Fully Loved, and Joseph Forrest Suggs's Favorite BooksIn this heartfelt episode of "A Stroll Through the Library," host Matt Walker Thrift sits down with Joseph Forrest Suggs, a youth pastor from Fort Smith, Arkansas. They delve into the transformative power of literature and faith, exploring how books like "Can I Say That" by Brenna Blain and "The Furious Longing of God" by Brennan Manning have shaped their spiritual journeys. Joseph shares his personal story of finding faith and community after overcoming addiction, offering insights into the challenges and joys of ministry. This episode is a profound exploration of vulnerability, healing, and the relentless love of God.
2025-10-0748 min
A Stroll Through the LibraryTruth, Goodness, Beauty, and Ian Simkins's Favorite BooksIn this episode of "A Stroll Through the Library," host Matt Walker Thrift sits down with Pastor Ian Simkins for an engaging conversation about faith, creativity, and the transformative power of books. Ian shares insights from his journey in ministry, the impact of literature on his spiritual growth, and the importance of vulnerability and community in the church. Together, they explore the intersection of truth, goodness, and beauty, and discuss how these elements can invite people to see God in fresh ways. Tune in for a thoughtful dialogue that encourages listeners to live from a place of belovedness and...
2025-09-3057 min
The Matt Walker PodcastCozy Cabin Retreat: A Sleep Story Read by Matt WalkerIn 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...
2025-09-2929 min
A Stroll Through the LibrarySpiritual Abuse, the Christian Music Industry, and Riley Faith's Favorite BooksIn this episode of "A Stroll Through the Library," host Matt Walker Thrift welcomes Riley Faith (Clatterbuck), a Christian recording artist and spiritual abuse survivor. Riley shares her journey through spiritual abuse, her evolving relationship with scripture, and her advocacy for those affected by similar experiences. The conversation delves into the complexities of faith, the impact of music, and the importance of discernment in spiritual communities. Join us for an insightful discussion on healing, resilience, and the power of authentic worship.Make sure to follow her on Instagram: @rileyfaithcFind her music on your favorite...
2025-09-231h 05
The Matt Walker Podcast#108 Implanting False Memories Into Your BrainIn 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 im...
2025-09-2224 min
A Stroll Through the LibraryMusic, Grieving Loss, and Blaine Taylor's Favorite BooksIn this episode of A Stroll Through the Library, host Matt Walker Thrift engages in a heartfelt conversation with musician Blaine Taylor. Blaine has produced for some of the best in the Christian Hip-Hop world; most recently, he worked on "GTA 6" for Andy Mineo and Wordsplayed. They explore Blaine's early reading experiences, the influence of literature on his creativity, and the profound impact of grief on his life and music. Blaine shares his journey of finding God amidst suffering and how writing has served as a therapeutic outlet for his emotions. The discussion also touches on the importance of...
2025-09-161h 15
A Stroll Through the LibraryFollowing Jesus Through Suffering, Loving Seattle, and Tyler Gorsline's Favorite BooksIn this episode of "A Stroll Through the Library," host Matt Walker Thrift engages in a heartfelt conversation with Tyler Gorsline, lead pastor of A Seattle Church and host of the "But I Tell You" podcast. They explore the profound impact of literature on personal and spiritual growth, sharing insights on books that have shaped their faith journeys. Tyler reflects on his unique path to faith, the challenges of balancing ministry with family life, and the transformative power of storytelling. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on faith, books, and the journey of spiritual formation.
2025-09-091h 07
A Stroll Through the LibraryCreative Communities, Washing Feet, and Gavin Linderman's Favorite BooksJoin host Matt Walker Thrift in this engaging episode of "A Stroll Through the Library" as he converses with Gavin Linderman, the Lead Pastor of Axiom Church. Gavin shares his passion for community-driven ministry. Discover how titles like "The Ladder of Divine Ascent" and "The Divine Conspiracy" have influenced his approach to faith and community building. Listen in to explore how Gavin's unique perspective fosters a vibrant environment at Axiom Church, where creativity and spirituality thrive together.Follow Gavin on Instagram: @the_rev_gavinAnd make sure to check out www.projectbanquet.com...
2025-09-021h 01
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #13 - Skye Dillon (Sports Branding Legend)Join host Matt Walker on The Pie Guy Podcast for an electrifying conversation with sports branding legend Skye Dillon, the creative force behind the Orlando Magic’s stunning 2025-26 logo and uniform rebrand. From his small-town Maine roots, where he sketched team logos as a kid, to landing the NBA’s most nostalgic refresh, Skye shares the wild journey of bringing back the Magic’s ‘90s Shaq-and-Penny swagger—pinstripes, star-centric logo, and all—while keeping it fresh for today’s fans. Dive into the four-year process, from fan surveys to navigating Mitchell & Ness licensing rules, and how Skye’s team at SKYE cra...
2025-08-261h 53
A Stroll Through the LibraryCircus Freaks, Death, and Joshua S. Porter's Favorite BooksJoin host Matt Walker Thrift as he sits down with Joshua S. Porter, a Pastor, Author, and Frontman of the post-hardcore band ShowBread, to discuss his journey from band life to pastoring, and his latest book, "How to Die." They delve into the themes of creativity, faith, and the power of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world.Key Topics:Joshua's transition from music to ministry. The inspiration behind "How to Die" and its provocative title. The role of fiction in enhancing biblical understanding. Personal anecdotes about growing up in a conservative...
2025-08-261h 26
A Stroll Through the LibraryFinding Identity and Talking About Gumbo and Books: A Conversation with Kainan Seth JoubertIn this episode of "A Stroll Through the Library," host Matt Walker Thrift sits down with Kainan Seth Joubert for an insightful conversation on faith, identity, and the power of literature. Join us as Kainan shares his journey through the complexities of racial and sexual identity within the church, the books that have shaped his worldview, and his thoughts on navigating ministry in a multi-ethnic space. Whether you're a book lover or someone seeking deeper understanding, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of how our stories and beliefs intersect. Don't miss this engaging dialogue that promises to inspire and...
2025-08-131h 25
A Stroll Through the LibraryBooks, Hell, and Hermeneutics: A Conversation with Chris DateThe “A Stroll Through the Library Podcast” is a place where we can learn more about the books that inspire some of the most important Christian Authors, Pastors, Artists, Theologians and Thinkers of our day. Today is episode 001 where we get to learn more about Theologian Chris Date and hear about some of the books that have inspired him. Find more from Chris at www.chrisdate.info & rethinkinghell.com Follow the podcast on instagram for more updates on this monthly show. @astrollthroughthelibrarypod Host: Pastor Matt Walker Thrift @pastorthrifty
2025-08-1137 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#104 - Humans Can Navigate Like BatsMatt 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...
2025-08-1124 min
The Matt Walker PodcastThe Dreamer's Embrace: A Sleep Story Read by Matt WalkerSettle 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...
2025-07-2829 min
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #12 - Carl Smith (Community Builder and Philosophical Futurist)Join host Matt Walker on The Pie Guy Podcast for a nostalgic and freewheeling conversation with his longtime friend Carl Smith, founder of The Bureau of Digital in Jacksonville, FL. What begins as a plan to talk football takes a delightful detour into the world of music, creativity, and community. Carl, a passionate community builder and philosophical futurist, shares stories from his musical past—from his first Black Sabbath concert at age 12 to his deep love for Prince, the Eagles, Van Halen, and more. Matt and Carl dive into the raw energy of 80s rock, the genius of unfiltered ar...
2025-07-261h 33
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #11 - Michelle Francoeur (Personal Trainer & Nutrition Specialist)Join host Matt Walker on Episode #11 of The Pie Guy Podcast as he dives into the world of nutrition and fitness with certified personal trainer and nutrition specialist Michelle Francoeur. From debunking food myths to sharing practical tips for healthy eating, Michelle discusses the importance of cooking at home, avoiding processed foods, and choosing fresh, organic ingredients. She also opens up about her journey from plant-based to flexitarian eating, the impact of modern food systems, and her new focus on menopause education. Whether you're navigating family meals or curious about weight loss drugs like Ozempic, this episode offers relatable...
2025-07-161h 20
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 20: Sleep Under the InfluenceIn 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...
2025-07-141h 04
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #10 - Brendon Huttmann (Longtime MLB Strength & Conditioning Expert)Join host Matt Walker on the Pie Guy Podcast as he sits down with Brendon Huttmann, a strength and conditioning expert with an incredible journey from Major League Baseball to leading a human performance team for the U.S. Army. With over 20 years in MLB, Brendon worked with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Cleveland Indians, rising to Director of Performance Science and serving as President of the Professional Baseball Strength and Conditioning Coaches Society. Now, as a Department of the Army civilian, he leads a team of 25 professionals to optimize the readiness of 3,000 soldiers through holistic health...
2025-07-081h 15
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #9 - Todd Radom (Legendary Sports Designer)Join host Matt Walker for an exciting conversation with legendary sports designer Todd Radom, diving into the vibrant world of sports design, branding, and fandom. In this episode, they explore Todd’s iconic work creating logos for professional sports teams, the passionate sports culture of Philadelphia, and the evolving stadium experience that captivates fans. From the unique romanticism of baseball to the community pride fueling sports fandom, they discuss how design shapes team identity and the growing influence of AI on the creative process. Todd also shares insights into his current projects, including his work with Ice Cube’s Big3...
2025-06-301h 29
The Matt Walker PodcastThe Dreamer Boat: Sophia's Journey, A Sleep Story, read by Matt WalkerPrepare 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 ap...
2025-06-2329 min
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #8 - Jamie Carlson (Director of Product Management at FOX Sports)In this episode of the Pie Guy Podcast, host Matt Walker serves up a fresh conversation with Jamie Carlson, Director of Product Management at FOX Sports and a veteran of ESPN Fantasy Sports. From his roots in game development to leading innovative sports apps, Jamie shares his journey and the recipe for building engaging digital products. Discover how he balances casual and hardcore user needs, leverages user feedback to drive innovation, and navigates market competition in fantasy sports. With insights on the impact of daily fantasy sports, user retention strategies, and the future of sports technology, Jamie reveals why...
2025-06-131h 06
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 19: The Sleep Science of HerDr. Eti Ben Simon returns for yet another AMA episode, this time specifically focussing on sleep and women. Together, they delve into the nuanced differences in sleep patterns between men and women, exploring aspects like sleep duration, quality, and architecture, including variations in deep sleep and REM sleep. They discuss how females generally sleep slightly longer, experience fewer awakenings, and have more deep sleep early in the night, alongside a quicker onset of REM sleep. The conversation also touches upon the potential health risks associated with shift work, particularly night shifts, highlighting an observed associational link with increased risks...
2025-06-091h 12
The Matt Walker PodcastThe Dreamer Boat - A Sleep Story Read by Matt WalkerDrift into tranquility tonight as Matt pilots your voyage to a deeply restful slumber in this calming sleep narrative. Prepare to release the day's hold and find solace on a serene sea, where the rhythm of the waves and the canopy of stars invite peaceful repose. Picture yourself embraced by the gentle motion of the water, the day's warmth slowly giving way to the cool embrace of a twilight sky, speckled with distant, shimmering lights. You will encounter "The Dreamer," a special vessel with a unique mission: to seek out souls yearning for serenity, such as a seasoned...
2025-05-2629 min
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #6 - Buddy Foy (Fox News Contributor, Entrepreneur, Restaurateur)In this dynamic episode of the Pie Guy Podcast, host Matt Walker sits down with Buddy Foy, an entrepreneurial trailblazer, restaurateur, and reality TV star, to explore his journey from spearheading e-commerce during the internet revolution to thriving in the restaurant industry in Lake George. Buddy shares the challenges of his early online ventures, the bold transition to hospitality, and the therapeutic impact of showcasing family dynamics on reality TV, noting, “Reality TV for us was real.” He emphasizes adaptability, risk-taking, and a forward-thinking mindset as keys to navigating business challenges, while highlighting how AI is revolutionizing the restaurant indu...
2025-05-161h 27
The Bastrop PodcastBuilding Unity in Bastrop: Ronald Wilson’s Journey to MinistryIn this episode of The Bastrop Podcast, host Matt Walker sits down with Pastor Ronald Wilson at Anointed Hands Barbershop for a heartfelt conversation about faith, calling, and community. Ron opens up about receiving his first prophetic word as a teen, leading alongside his wife at Celebration Community Church, and helping unify local churches through the Bastrop Christian Ministerial Alliance.You'll hear stories of fatherhood, barbershop culture, ministry in the margins, and what it means to raise a family with purpose. Ron’s passion for unity, mentorship, and living out the Gospel is contagious—this epis...
2025-05-1415 min
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 18: From Phone Radiation & Paralysis to Full Moons & EarwormsMatt and Dr. Eti Ben Simone are back again today to answer even more of your brilliant sleep questions! They begin by discussing smartphones, noting that the direct EMF impact on brainwaves is debatable, but that psychological activation and blue light are known disruptors. Moving onto naps, Matt explains longer ones can cause "sleep inertia," while short naps (20 mins) can be beneficial, unless insomnia is present.They then examine the full moon's debated effect on sleep, and how it is possibly obscured by modern lighting. Sleep paralysis is then explained as consciousness returning before...
2025-05-1250 minThe Bastrop PodcastTime-Rich, Faith-Fueled: A Mobile Mechanic’s Mission in Bastrop, TexasIn this episode of The Bastrop Podcast, Matt Walker sits down with Adam Richerson, owner of House Call Mobile Mechanic, to talk about what it’s really like running a one-man auto repair business in Bastrop County, Texas. Adam shares how stepping into self-employment gave him the freedom to prioritize faith, family, and flexibility—and why he wishes he’d done it sooner. From diagnosing tricky engine issues to navigating entrepreneurship with integrity, Adam brings raw insight into the mechanical trade and the values that drive his work. Plus, he opens up about his faith in Jes...
2025-05-0609 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#97 - Night TerrorsMatt takes the opportunity this week to explore the perplexing sleep phenomenon of night terrors (sleep terrors). Matt clarifies that these are distinct from nightmares, defining them as parasomnias arising from abrupt arousals out of deep Non-REM sleep, not REM sleep where dreaming occurs. He details the often dramatic symptoms – intense fear, screaming, sweating, rapid breathing, confusion, sometimes thrashing or sleepwalking – emphasizing the typical lack of memory of the event afterward. Matt discusses prevalence, noting night terrors primarily affect children (1-6%, peaking ages 3-5) and are usually outgrown, while adult cases (
2025-05-0525 min
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #5 - Adam Martin (Podcast Pioneer, Sports Designer)Pi Guy Podcast: Exploring Design, AI, and Sports with Adam MartinJoin host Matt Walker on the Pi Guy Podcast for a captivating conversation with Adam Martin, a veteran sports designer and former podcaster. In this episode, they dive into the evolution of podcasting, the impact of design templates on sports branding, and the growing importance of accessibility in design. From the influence of AI on creative processes to the role of cultural trends and nostalgia for early internet culture, Adam shares insightful reflections from his career. Tune in to explore how technology, creativity, and innovation are shaping...
2025-05-031h 06The Bastrop PodcastBastrop Entrepreneurs: Jack Plimpton Brings Jeremiah’s Italian Ice to TownBuilding Community and Cool Treats in Bastrop | Featuring Jack Plimpton of Jeremiah’s Italian IceIn this episode, Matt Walker sits down with Jack Plimpton, co-owner of Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, to talk about launching a new business in Bastrop, Texas — and how a simple road trip idea turned into a sweet new gathering spot for the community.Jack shares what inspired him and his wife Allie to bring Jeremiah’s Italian Ice to town, how they balance business with community connection, and lessons learned from starting a brick-and-mortar from the ground up.Whe...
2025-04-2907 min
The Matt Walker PodcastCelestial Slumbers - A Sleep Story Read by Matt WalkerEmbark on a celestial journey tonight as Matt guides you through the vast expanse of the night sky in this soothing sleep story. Prepare to travel amongst the stars, exploring the constellations that have captivated humanity for millennia. Imagine yourself lying comfortably beneath the heavens on a warm evening, the stars twinkling like distant fireflies. Feel the gentle night air as you connect with the awe and wonder felt by ancient civilizations who gazed upon these same cosmic patterns, weaving myths and legends into the very fabric of the universe.Allow the gentle cadence...
2025-04-2817 minThe Bastrop PodcastJohn Eason on Improving Bastrop Schools and Investing in Our KidsMeet John Eason — a longtime Bastrop, Texas resident, business owner, and family man running for BISD school board. In this episode, he shares about his nonprofit background, his heart for the community, and his vision for the future of Bastrop ISD.The episode is hosted by Matt Walker and edited/directed by Liana Walker, co-owners of Wisdom House Realty Group — a top-producing real estate team based in Bastrop with agents in Bastrop, Austin, and Houston. They are part of Epique Realty, a national brokerage with over 400 agents across Texas. Matt and Liana specialize in he...
2025-04-2216 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#96 - Nine Unknown Functions of Dream SleepThis week, Matt dismantles the myth that REM sleep only benefits the mind by revealing its profound importance for physical health. While deep sleep handles some repair, Matt details how REM is crucial for peak testosterone and growth hormone release, vital for muscle, bone, libido, tissue repair, and metabolism. He explains that REM's characteristic muscle paralysis (atonia) isn't just for safety; it fosters physical recovery by enabling deep muscle relaxation, boosting blood flow, lowering cortisol, and regulating inflammatory cytokines.Matt further explores how REM resets the body's thermostat, enhances cardiovascular health through heart rate...
2025-04-2126 min
The Pie Guy PodcastEpisode #3 - Joe Bosack (Legendary Sports Designer)In this episode of the Pi Guy Podcast, host Matt Walker interviews Joe Bosack, a legendary sports logo designer known for his work with the NHL, Alliance, and USFL. Joe shares his journey from the NHL’s first in-house creative team to founding his own branding agency, discussing the shift to digital design, crafting timeless logos, and the importance of color matching and jersey design in sports branding. He highlights community engagement in hockey, accessibility challenges, and lessons from league identities, emphasizing networking, trust, and time management in his entrepreneurial success. This episode is a must-listen for fans of sp...
2025-04-201h 07
The Pie Guy PodcastAn IntroWelcome to the Pie Guy Podcast, hosted by Matt Walker! This show is all about deep, meaningful, and fun conversations with people from all walks of life—covering everything from design, entrepreneurship, sports, wrestling, relationships, psychology, and beyond.So, why Pie Guy? It was my mom’s nickname for me, a name that brings back warmth, love, and memories. When I was searching for the perfect podcast name, it just felt right. This podcast is a reflection of all the important parts of me—things even lifelong friends might not know.A little about me: I’m a...
2025-04-0424 min
The Matt Walker PodcastClara and the Twilight Garden - A Sleep Story Read by Matt WalkerFind tranquility in a secret setting as Matt guides you through tonight's sleep story set in "The Twilight Garden." Meet Clara, the lamp keeper, who lovingly tends to the hundreds of lanterns that illuminate this hidden haven. On this particular evening, a grieving visitor arrives, seeking solace and a way to remember a lost loved one. As Clara shares the garden's quiet magic and the healing power of light, you'll be enveloped in the garden's peaceful atmosphere, filled with the scent of lavender and the soft glow of lanterns.Let your imagination stroll along...
2025-03-2422 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#94 - Dream Sleep for the BodyIn today’s episode, Matt challenges the notion that REM sleep is solely for the brain, revealing its broad impact on physical health. He delves into REM's role in regulating testosterone and growth hormone, crucial for muscle function. Our host also highlights how REM aids muscle recovery via paralysis, boosting blood flow and supporting protein synthesis.Beyond muscles, Matt explores REM's effects on temperature regulation and heart health by boosting heart rate variability and promoting stress resilience. He also uncovers REM's surprising links to reproductive and immune health, from genital blood flow to enhanced im...
2025-03-1729 min
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 16: Dream Time, Circadian Changes, & Night SweatsMatt and Dr. Eti Ben Simon team up to answer more audience questions today, and begin by delving into the subjective experience of time during dreams, exploring how our perception stretches and compresses during REM sleep and whether we can hack our dreams. They also explain the cognitive, emotional, hormonal, and immunological consequences of pulling an all-nighter, highlighting the dramatic impact on memory consolidation, stress hormones, appetite regulation, and immune function. The cardiovascular and metabolic repercussions are also addressed underscoring the serious health risks associated with chronic sleep deprivation.The discussion shifts to the societal bias favoring...
2025-03-1052 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#93 - Sleeping Pills and their Alternatives with Dr. Ranji VargheseMatt Walker welcomes Dr. Ranji Varghese back to the podcast today to complete the whole sleeping pill story by discussing newer sleeping pills, beyond benzos and Z-drugs. Together, they explore Melatonin receptor agonists (like Ramelteon) that signal sleep preparation, unlike sedating GABAergics. They also detail how DORAs inhibit the wakefulness-promoting orexin, how off-label options (ex. trazodone, low-dose doxepin) affect histamine, the risks and benefits of each.Dr. Varghese goes on to explain the mechanisms and side effect profile for each sleeping pill, including over the counter options. He stresses that all medications carry risk and require careful u...
2025-03-031h 00
The Matt Walker PodcastThe Archives of Lost Letters - A Sleep Story Read by Matt WalkerEscape into a world of untold stories with Matt as he guides you through tonight's sleep story set in "The Archive of Lost Letters." Meet Stephanie, the archivist, who tends to letters never sent, filled with unspoken confessions and unshared truths. Tonight, a visitor arrives, searching for a lost piece of himself. As Stephanie helps him uncover a forgotten letter, you'll be enveloped in the library's quiet atmosphere, filled with the scent of old parchment and the weight of unspoken words.Let your imagination wander through the endless shelves of envelopes as the soft...
2025-02-2416 min
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 15: Beauty Sleep, Naps, 3 AM Wake-Ups & Axl Rose with Dr. Eti Ben SimonIn their latest AMA episode, Matt and Eti address listener questions ranging from "beauty sleep" to 3 AM awakenings. They explore the scientific evidence supporting sleep's crucial role in skin health and perceived attractiveness, citing studies on the effects of sleep deprivation. The cognitive benefits of napping are discussed, highlighting its ability to enhance learning and memory consolidation. They also delve into the remarkable neural activity of deep non-REM sleep, including synchronized neuron firing and accelerated memory replay. The common concern of sleep debt is also a key topic.The discussion then turns to practical strategies for managing...
2025-02-101h 09
The Matt Walker Podcast#91 - Sleep, Ambien, Memory, and Alzheimer'sThis week, Matt Walker dives into the world of the widely used sleeping pill, Ambien (Zolpidem). He explains how Ambien, a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic, works by targeting the brain's GABA receptors, specifically the alpha-1 subunit, to induce sleep. However, this comes with consequences. Matt highlights research by Dr. Marcos Frank showing that Ambien significantly impairs memory consolidation, essentially unwiring the brain's learning processes during sleep by approximately 50%. Furthermore, the episode explores Ambien's impact on the glymphatic system, the brain's crucial waste removal process active during deep sleep. New research demonstrates that Ambien reduces the glymphatic s...
2025-02-0338 min
The Matt Walker PodcastThe Evergreen Express - A Sleep Story Read by Matt WalkerSettle into the embrace of your bed, feeling its comforting presence beneath you. This connection anchors you to the present, quieting the mind's chatter and creating a foundation for restful sleep. 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 p...
2025-01-2722 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#90 - Sleep as Fuel for Athletes with Dr. Cheri MahJoin Matt and renowned sleep scientist Dr. Cheri Mah today as they delve into the crucial connection between sleep and athletic performance. Dr. Mah's groundbreaking research at Stanford, including her famous basketball player sleep extension study (which revealed a 9% improvement in free throws and three-pointers!), demonstrates how prioritizing sleep can significantly enhance athletic abilities. In this fascinating episode, she discusses with Matt how sleep impacts not only physical recovery and muscle repair, but also cognitive functions crucial for athletes, such as decision-making, reaction time, and mental resilience. Dr. Mah also shares insights into the s...
2025-01-201h 08
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 14: Sleep, AI, Space, and SuperpowersIn his latest "Ask Me Anything" episode, Matt is once again joined by Dr. Eti Ben Simon to respond to a variety of audience questions, beginning with the role of AI in sleep medicine. Together, they explore how AI is currently being used to improve the accuracy and efficiency of sleep stage scoring, and how it shows promise in diagnosing sleep apnea and personalizing treatment plans. Matt highlights the potential for AI to integrate with smart home technology and predict an individual's risk of developing sleep disorders based on genetics, lifestyle, and environmental data. He also discusses the development...
2025-01-1356 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#89 - Does Catch-up Sleep Work?Welcome back to a new episode of the Matt Walker Podcast, where we revisit the often-discussed topic of catch-up sleep. We delve into the complexities of weekend catch-up sleep, exploring a recent study of 91,000 participants that suggests a potential link between compensatory weekend sleep and a reduced risk of heart disease. While this news offers a glimmer of hope, it's crucial to understand this benefit within the context of existing research. Studies like that of Dr. Ken Wright at the University of Colorado Boulder show weekend catch-up sleep only recovers a small percentage of sleep debt and doesn’t f...
2025-01-0630 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#88 - Sleep & Sleeping Pills with Dr. Ranji VargheseMatt Walker welcomes Dr. Ranji Varghese to the podcast this week for an in-depth conversation about sleep and prescription sleeping pills. A psychiatrist specializing in sleep medicine, Dr. Varghese begins by discussing his entry into the field which was sparked by a fascination with sleep and wake circadian rhythms. He goes on to highlight the Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorder Center's focus on parasomnias, particularly REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, emphasizing the intersection of neuroscience, physiology, and psychology in sleep medicine.As you will hear, sleeping pills, prescribed to initiate or maintain sleep, are typically used...
2024-12-231h 03
The Matt Walker PodcastBeneath a Highland Moon - A Sleep Story Read by Matt WalkerEmbark on a calming journey to the Scottish Highlands in tonight's sleep story. Join Matt as he guides you through a tranquil landscape of rolling hills, sparkling lochs, and fragrant valleys. Let the soothing sounds of nature and the peaceful imagery lull you into a deep, restful sleep. This immersive experience is designed to ease your mind and help you unwind after a long day.Tonight's story offers a sanctuary from the whirlwind of everyday life, allowing you to release your worries and embrace the stillness of the night. Feel the gentle ground beneath...
2024-12-1622 min
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 13: Circadian Rhythms, Biphasic Sleep, Gut Health, and Animal Sleep SecretsMatt and Eti’s latest AMA episode begins with an exploration of the fascinating relationship between circadian rhythms and medication effectiveness. Discover how this internal 24-hour clock influences drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, impacting treatment outcomes. The episode then delves into chronotherapy, revealing how timing can optimize medication efficacy and minimize side effects for conditions like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Together, our hosts investigate whether individuals thriving on minimal sleep have a genetic advantage, focusing on the DEC2 gene variant. Additionally, the episode unravels the evolutionary basis of bip...
2024-12-0256 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#86 - Sleeping Pills & Weight LossJoin Matt today as he explores the fascinating intersection of sleep, metabolism, and weight management, delving into the science of dual orexin receptor antagonists (DORAs). This episode dissects a groundbreaking study on suvorexant (Belsomra), an FDA-approved insomnia medication, and its potential to enhance fat burning during sleep. Matt unpacks the role of orexin, a neuropeptide crucial for wakefulness, and explains how DORAs work by targeting orexin receptors to promote natural sleep. This preliminary research, conducted on healthy young men, reveals suvorexant's intriguing ability to not only improve sleep quality, but also increase fat oxidation while preserving muscle m...
2024-11-2524 min
The Matt Walker PodcastStarlight Stroll - A Sleep Story Read by Matt WalkerEscape the everyday and drift off to dreamland with Matt’s guided sleep story. Together, we'll journey through tranquil landscapes, from moonlit valleys to sun-dappled forests, letting the soothing sounds and imagery lull you into a peaceful slumber. This is a sleep story designed to ease your mind and gently guide you into a deep, restful sleep. If you find yourself struggling to unwind after a long day, allow this narrative to transport you to a place of tranquility and calm. Release your worries and embrace the stillness of the night as we embark on this relaxing journey to...
2024-11-1823 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#85 - The Power and Limits of Memory with Dr. Charan RanganathMatt dives deep into the science of memory with renowned neuroscientist Dr. Charan Ranganath, author of Why We Remember: Unlocking Memory's Power to Hold On to What Matters in today’s episode. Together, they explore the complex relationship between memory and the brain, touching on the roles of emotional significance, context, and even neuromodulators like dopamine in helping our brains decide which memories to retain and which to discard. Dr. Ranganath shares his unique journey into memory research and insights from his pioneering work at the Dynamic Memory Lab at UC...
2024-11-1151 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#84 - Sleep & NarcolepsyMatt returns this week to unpack the complexities of narcolepsy, a neurological sleep disorder often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. He starts by defining narcolepsy, explaining its profound impact on brain and body functioning and its chronic nature, which often diminishes patients' quality of life. Narcolepsy affects about 1 in every 2,000 people, yet most go undiagnosed due to limited awareness and medical training on sleep disorders. With a closer look at the causes, Matt explores how the brain's sleep-wake regulator, orexin, malfunctions in those with narcolepsy, disrupting their sleep cycles and resulting in excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep "attacks."
2024-10-2843 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#83 - Sleeping Separate vs. Your RelationshipMatt revisits the concept of "sleep divorce," or "sleep separation" in this latest episode, examining its effects on relationships and well-being. He cites studies showing that up to one in four couples in the U.S. and U.K. sleep in separate rooms, a statistic often underestimated due to stigma. While many fear that sleeping apart harms intimacy, Matt presents data indicating that it can actually enhance sleep quality and intimacy by promoting better-rested bodies and increasing hormones like testosterone and estrogen. He also discusses new research on the psychology of co-sleeping, revealing that d...
2024-10-1438 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#82 - Sleep and ADHD with Dr. Jessica Lunsford-AveryMatt Walker welcomes Dr. Jessica Lunsford-Avery, an Associate Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University to the podcast today. Dr. Lunsford-Avery, a clinical psychologist, delves into the crucial link between sleep and mental health in children with ADHD. Her groundbreaking research explores how sleep impacts daytime impairment in ADHD, focusing on cognitive behavioral therapies to improve both sleep quality and ADHD symptoms. Their discussion highlights the critical need for better understanding and treatment of sleep problems in managing ADHD, emphasizing the powerful role of sleep in overall mental health.Dr. Lunsford-Avery shares her journey into...
2024-09-231h 14
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 9 - THC, Melatonin, and Defining ‘Enough Sleep'In yet another informative and entertaining AMA episode, Matt and Doctor Eti Ben-Simon delve into the variety of sleep-related questions uppermost in listeners’ minds . Matt begins by explaining that THC, the main psychoactive component in cannabis, can help individuals fall asleep initially but disrupts sleep patterns and circadian rhythms with chronic use. This can lead to increased brain temperature, tolerance, dependence, and decreased REM sleep, impacting emotional regulation and overall health. Emerging data on cannabis's potential benefits for sleep apnea are inconclusive.Matt and Eti also discuss white noise's impact on sleep, particularly in no...
2024-08-051h 10
The Matt Walker Podcast#77 - Sleep & CBDMatt continues his series on the impact of cannabis, THC, and CBD upon sleep this week with an examination into the intricacies of cannabidiol (CBD), which, unlike its psychoactive counterpart THC, does not induce a high but is recognized for its potential therapeutic effects. While studies suggest that CBD may aid in alleviating anxiety, movement disorders, pain, and addiction, in this episode, our host focuses on exploring CBD's potential influence on sleep quality while examining its biochemistry and neurobiology.Matt explains that CBD modulates the body's endocannabinoid system without directly binding to cannabinoid receptors...
2024-07-011h 01
The Matt Walker Podcast#76 - Precognitive DreamingIn this week’s intriguing episode, Matt delves into the topic of precognitive dreams, exploring the idea that some people can predict future events through their dreams. He explains that while this concept might seem appealing, it is actually a result of statistical chance. With around 8 billion people in the world each having multiple dreams per night, the sheer number of dreams increases the likelihood of coincidental matches between dreams and real-life events. Matt also discusses a groundbreaking study published in the highly respected journal, Nature, which reveals a logical and...
2024-06-1826 min
The Matt Walker PodcastAMA Part 7 - Deep Sleep, Alcohol & AnxietyIn this 7th installment of their AMA series, Matt Walker and Dr. Eti Ben Simon dive into strategies for improving deep non-REM sleep. They highlight the benefits of vigorous exercise, citing a study by Kaspar Vogt that shows how exercise enhances the quality and stability of deep sleep. Additionally, they discuss how temperature manipulations, like using high heat capacity mattresses, can also improve sleep quality. Interesting insights include findings that intense exercise can improve deep sleep across various age groups, with significant benefits noted in older adults and children.The episode also touches on...
2024-06-101h 05
The Matt Walker Podcast# 74 - Sleep & THCMatt continues his exploration into the intricate link between cannabis and sleep, focusing on THC in this second installment, beginning with a reminder to listeners of the historical insights from doctors like O'Shaughnessy and Clendinning in the 1800s regarding cannabis's sleep-inducing effects. He shifts to how THC affects sleep today, noting that while it initially reduces sleep onset time and early night awakenings, chronic use worsens sleep quality, leading to frequent disruptions, especially in the second half of the night due to lower "sleep pressure."Matt then dives into THC's impact on REM sleep...
2024-05-2044 min
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 6 - Lunar Cycles & Weighted BlanketsMatt and Eti team up again today for another entertaining and informative AMA episode. This time around, they dive into the intriguing world of lunar cycles and their potential influence on sleep patterns and dreams. From ancient beliefs to modern scientific findings, our duo unpacks the subtle yet fascinating impact of the moon. They then go on to explore the calming effects of weighted blankets on children and adults alike, revealing how deep touch pressure therapy enhances sleep quality and emotional regulation.Exploring how lunar phases and weighted blankets impact sleep, Matt and Eti delve into studies...
2024-05-1350 min
The Matt Walker Podcast# 72 - Sleep & CannabisMatt introduces his series examining the complex relationship between sleep and cannabis, exploring both the historical context and contemporary scientific perspectives. The narrative begins with Dr. W.B. O'Shaughnessy's canine experiments in 1849, tracing the evolution to the foundational work on cannabis for sleep conducted by Drs. Clendinning and Bradbury. Despite anecdotal reports suggesting cannabis enhances sleep, the scenario is complicated by factors such as regulatory constraints, variable product quality, and the potential long-term health implications of cannabis usage.In discussing the impact of cannabis on sleep, Matt elucidates the interactions among THC, CBD, and...
2024-04-2238 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#70 - Sleep & Screens with Dr. Michael GradisarIn today's podcast episode, Matt welcomes back Dr. Michael Gradisar to delve into the evolving understanding of screens and sleep. Initially holding the belief in the detrimental effect of screen light on sleep, Matt finds this notion challenged by Dr. Gradisar's research, which emphasizes a more nuanced perspective. Their discussion highlights the shift from simplistic concerns about screen use to acknowledging the multifaceted influences on sleep, including content and individual differences. Dr. Gradisar's experiments, such as exposure to violent video games and bedtime displacement monitoring, emphasize the complexity of the relationship between technology use a...
2024-03-251h 08
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 4 - Our Sleep Habits ExploredIt’s another AMA episode and Dr. Eti Ben Simon returns to not only share some of her own sleep routines, but also to help listeners gain a rare insight into Matt's personal sleep habits as they respond to a listener’s query. Renowned for not sharing much, if anything, regarding what he considers his “boring” self, Matt is coaxed into offering a candid exploration of his bedtime routines, shedding light on both his successes and challenges in achieving optimal rest. From his dedication to regular sleep schedules to his strategies for managing stress-induced insomnia, Matt’s uncharacteristic willingnes...
2024-03-0435 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#68 - Sleep & Light With Dr. Michael GradisarMatt Walker welcomes his dear friend, the epic sleep researcher and clinician, Dr. Michael Gradisar, to the podcast to join him in exploring the profound influence of light on sleep quality. Dr. Gradisar's groundbreaking research and clinical proficiency in pediatric sleep disorders and circadian rhythm disruptions have reshaped the field, guiding both scientific comprehension and practical interventions. His conversation with Matt here today delves into the intricate interplay among light exposure, circadian rhythms, and sleep, highlighting the therapeutic promise of light therapy, particularly in addressing insomnia.Throughout their dialogue, our two...
2024-02-2644 min
The Matt Walker PodcastAsk Me Anything Part 3 - Alzheimer's, Shift Work, Sleep OptimizationDr. Eti Ben Simone is back with Matt Walker to delve into a range of intriguing topics surrounding sleep, circadian rhythms, and the impact of shift work on our health, all within the engaging context of today’s installment of their increasingly popular Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions. Their conversation begins by exploring the intriguing link between the APOEε4 genotype and sleep disturbances, particularly concerning Alzheimer's disease. It's noteworthy that individuals carrying the APOEε4 variant, especially those with two copies, face a heightened risk of developing Alzheimer's. Surprisingly, research shows that these individuals tend to experience more deep non...
2024-02-051h 07
The Matt Walker Podcast#65 - Sleep & Athletes with Dr. Michael Grandner pt.2In this second installment of their fascinating conversation together, Matt Walker and Michael Grandner continue their discussion regarding the crucial role of sleep in the lives of athletes. Together they delve into the unique challenges athletes face, such as irregular schedules, early mornings, late-night competitions, and travel across time zones, all of which can disrupt their sleep patterns. Dr. Grandner emphasizes the need for athletes to "bank sleep" by ensuring they get sufficient rest before challenging periods and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. He also recommends strategies like exposure to natural light and physical activity during the d...
2024-01-1540 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#63 - Yawning ExplainedIn this podcast, Matt explores the fascinating topic of yawning. He begins by pointing out that although we all yawn and assume it's a sign of sleepiness, science hasn't provided a definitive answer regarding its purpose. Matt delves into the etymology of the word "yawn" and describes the five distinct steps involved in the yawning reflex, shedding light on its physiological process.Matt then introduces three leading scientific theories explaining why we yawn. The first theory suggests that yawning helps cool the brain and enhances alertness by drawing in cooler air. The second theory...
2023-12-1822 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#62 - The Snooze ButtonMatt's back, and this time he's tackling the perennial debate: Is the snooze button a friend or foe when it comes to your sleep and overall health? He shines a spotlight on an intriguing study led by Dr. Tina Sundelin and her team - one that challenges our conventional wisdom about snooze buttons. Surprisingly, their research reveals that snooze button usage is quite common, especially among night owls and younger folks. What's even more unexpected is that snoozing may not have the detrimental impact on mood, cognitive performance, or cortisol levels that we once thought. However, there's a...
2023-12-0427 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#60 - Ask Me Anything Pt.1In today’s thoroughly engaging episode, Matt joins forces with Dr. Eti Ben Simon from his Center for Human Sleep Science to embark upon an enlightening "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) session, addressing a wide array of questions related to sleep. Together, they explore such topics as sleep differences between males and females, the impact of sleep trackers on our rest, and the intriguing dynamics of sleep patterns based on biological sex. The journey continues as Matt responds to queries regarding the terrain of sleep across the human lifespan, from restless newborns to the complexities of...
2023-11-061h 02
The Matt Walker Podcast#59 - Sleep & Motor MemoryIn today’s memorable episode, Matt examines the intriguing connection between sleep and motor memory. Beginning with an explanation of the two main types of human memory - fact-based memory and procedural memory, which includes motor/skill memories - he notes that, contrary to popular belief, motor/skill memories aren't stored in our muscles but primarily within the brain. Matt also describes his journey into researching motor memories which started at Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham, England, where he observed stroke patients recovering lost muscle control and speech during rehabilitation.Matt re...
2023-10-2327 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#58 - Caffeine NapIn this episode, Matt delves into the intriguing realm of the "caffeine nap." He explores the idea of combining a short nap with caffeine to enhance mental performance and wakefulness. The episode kicks off with a dilemma – in the afternoon, when faced with fatigue, should you opt for coffee or a nap? Matt reveals that the answer isn't a simple choice between the two but a potent mix of both.Matt elucidates the science behind the caffeine nap, emphasizing the ideal timing for each element. He touches upon studies comparing the impacts of caffeine, naps, and caffeine na...
2023-10-0937 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#57 - Polyphasic SleepIn this engaging podcast episode, Matt delves into the world of polyphasic sleep – the practice of dividing sleep into multiple short naps throughout the day. The episode starts by exploring the historical origins of polyphasic sleep, from the concept of phases within a 24-hour sleep cycle to the motivations behind adopting unconventional sleep patterns for increased productivity.Matt explains various polyphasic sleep schedules, such as the Uberman, Everyman, and Triphasic schedules, which involve segmented sleep periods interspersed with short naps. While proponents claim benefits like enhanced sleep quality, improved brain function, and better health, Wa...
2023-09-2530 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#54 - The Art of NappingIn today’s episode, Matt shines a spotlight on the science behind napping and explores the optimal nap duration for various cognitive benefits. He starts by introducing the concept of napping and its benefits for the brain and body, and then discusses sleep inertia, the groggy feeling upon awakening from a nap, and its potential impact on brain performance.Matt walks through the dose-response curve of naps, starting with ultra-short power naps of five minutes or less, which show no evidence of sleep inertia but offer minimal cognitive benefits. He then progresses to 10-minute na...
2023-08-1426 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#48 - What is Sleep Apnea?In today’s episode, Matt discusses the sleep disorder known as sleep apnea, focusing on its definition, prevalence, and the dangers it poses if left untreated. Sleep apnea is a breathing-related sleep disorder, with obstructive sleep apnea being the most common form. It occurs when the airway partially or fully collapses during sleep, leading to disrupted breathing and oxygen deprivation. Sleep apnea is alarmingly prevalent, affecting an estimated 12-20% of the population worldwide, with a higher risk for males, overweight individuals, smokers, and those leading sedentary lifestyles. The consequences of untreated sle...
2023-05-2227 min
The Matt Walker Podcast# 40 - Sleep and Exercise Pt. 2This week, Matt goes deeper into the relationship between sleep and exercise. More specifically, does daytime exercise change the stages and types of sleep? Deep sleep is critical for various functions, so anything that can increase it is desirable. Older adults have an inherently difficult time generating deep non-REM sleep; however, a study showed that the amount can shoot up by 40% following a day with modest exercise. Moreover, it indicated that participants’ cognitive functioning was significantly sharper following that night of exercise-enhanced deep sleep.Exercise in healthy young adults also stimulates a lush increase in...
2023-01-3022 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#23: Dreams – Part 6In this episode, Matt goes deeper into his exploration of lucid dreaming. He tells us all about studies demonstrating that lucid dreamers can wake from dream sleep on command, demonstrating control over intention in their dreams, and even bring themselves to orgasm in dream sleep!Matt tells us about two leading methods for developing the skill of lucid dreaming. The first is Mnemonic Induction of Lucid Dreams, which involves the creation of a conscious, deliberate intention to remember that one is dreaming. For example, repeating a certain phrase each night before sleep. The second i...
2022-06-0616 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#21: Dreams - Part 4Today’s episode focuses on a second but very different function of dreaming: the ingenious processing and interconnection of memories that inspires creativity and even problem-solving ability.Matt describes how we can think of REM sleep dreaming as a form of informational alchemy, in which we build new connections. As a consequence, we wake the next morning with a mind-wide web of associations capable of divining solutions to previously impenetrable problems.A great illustration of dream-inspired creativity is the chemist Dmitri Mendeleev, who had been trying for years to solve ar...
2022-05-0915 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#20: Dreams - Part 3Matt’s back with part three of his series on the science of dreaming! In this episode, he discusses how he and other scientists have discovered that dreams are not simply an unintended by-product of REM sleep. Instead, dreams provide at least two essential benefits for human beings.The first of these functions involves nursing our emotional and mental health and is the focus of this episode. Matt helps us understand that what makes a memory emotional is that, at the time of the experience, we release a visceral, emotional reaction. This wraps itself aro...
2022-04-2513 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#19: Dreams - Part 2In the second episode of this series about REM sleep dreaming, Matt explores what the science has to say not only about how we dream at the brain level, but what it is that we dream about. Traditionally, civilizations such as those in ancient Egypt, believed that dreams were a form of divine intervention--a message from the heavens. Thereafter, Matt discusses Sigmund Freud, who introduced the notion of dreams originating from within the brain, not the heavens, and thus could be considered a science of t...
2022-04-1116 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#18: Dreams - Part 1This week’s episode is the first in a new multi-part series all about dreams! Today, Matt focuses on the question of how your brain generates these things called dreams.Matt starts with an unexpected statement: last night, when you were dreaming, you became psychotic. 5 things happen when you dream that justify his diagnosis: 1) you see things that aren’t there, 2) you believe things that could not be true, 3) you become confused about time, place, and person, 4) you have wildly fluctuating emotions, and 5) you wake up in the morning and forge...
2022-03-2815 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#17: Sleep is Bloody Remarkable #1Matt has a special announcement this week: a new recurring type of episode called, ‘Sleep is Bloody Remarkable’. This series of episodes will share fascinating facts about sleep that will blow your mind! In the premier episode, Matt focuses on something truly (bloody) remarkable: half-brain sleep, or unihemispheric sleep. Unihemispheric sleep is the phenomenon of when one hemisphere of the brain is awake, while the other sleeps. Matt goes on to discuss how the two sides of the brain rotate their sleep roles, such that after a set period of time, the side that got to underg...
2022-03-1413 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#16: Sleep & Weight Gain – Part 2Matt returns with Part 2 of his series on sleep and weight gain. This time around, he teaches us how a lack of sleep not only makes you eat more food, but changes what types of food you want to eat, and eat to excess.First, Matt describes how underslept individuals that are limited to 4-5 hours of sleep for several nights will experience a 33% increase in the desire to eat obesogenic, sugary treats. In addition, they will suffer a 30% increase in craving for heavy-hitting carbohydrates, like pasta and pizza, and a 45% increased desire for...
2022-02-2810 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#15: Sleep & Weight Gain – Part 1Matt kicks off a two-part series all about sleep, eating, and weight gain. He starts by introducing two appetite-regulating hormones: leptin and ghrelin. Matt explains how leptin sends a signal of fullness, to your brain. When leptin levels are high, your appetite is reduced, and you feel satisfied by the food you eat. Ghrelin does the exact opposite. It revs up your hunger, so when your ghrelin levels are high, you don’t feel satisfied by the food you ate, so you want to eat more.Matt tells us that when you’re no...
2022-02-1412 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#14: Temperature – Part 2In the previous episode, Matt described the role of temperature in helping us fall asleep. In this episode, Matt teaches us all about the role of temperature in helping us stay asleep across the night, and then more effectively wake up the following morning.First, Matt takes us back to the body temperature suit experiments that were able to warm or cool different parts of the body. Matt explains that, using this same method, when you continue to cool the body throughout the first and middle parts of the night, enhance the ability of...
2022-01-3110 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#13: Temperature - Part 1In today's episode, Matt reveals how 1) your own temperature and, even more precisely, 2) the temperature of different parts of you, as well as 3) the temperature of your bedroom, can change how well or how poorly you sleep at night.Matt describes the basic physiology of how your brain and body needed to drop their core temperature by about 1 degree Celsius, or about 2 to 3 degrees Fahrenheit, for a person to fall and stay asleep across the night. This is the reason why we will always find it easier to fall asleep in a room that's...
2022-01-1709 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#12: MelatoninIn today's episode, Matt takes us on a deep dive into melatonin. He covers four main topics: 1) what is melatonin? 2) how does melatonin work? 3) what does melatonin do, and *not* do, for sleep? 4) how can we think about melatonin supplementation?First, Matt describes that melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone released by the brain. He gleefully notes that melatonin is often called, “the vampire hormone” as it comes out at night. In doing so, it signals that it is nighttime, which in turn helps schedule sleep.Second, Matt explains that, during the day, light enters your...
2022-01-0309 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#11: Sleep & Caffeine – Part 2In this week’s episode, Matt continues his discussion of sleep and caffeine. Here, we learn about the paradox of coffee, one in which coffee provides health benefits, despite its negative impact on sleep. Before addressing that, however, Matt speaks about one last sleep consequence of caffeine: regardless of your sensitivity to caffeine, it can still disrupt the quantity and electric quality of your deep non-REM sleep. This can lead to a cycle of caffeine dependency 1) you drink more coffee the next morning to compensate for your poor-quality, unrestorative sleep the night before, which th...
2021-12-2010 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#10: Sleep & Caffeine – Part 1In today's episode, Matt unpacks the world of coffee, and caffeine in the first of a two-part series on caffeine. Matt describes the numerous health benefits associated with coffee, the fact that Matt has even changed his tune a little and advocates a morning cup for some. Matt may not have anything to do with caffeine itself, with more details on that in part 2. In part 1, Matt then takes a deep dive into the different ways in which caffeine negatively impacts your sleep, some of which you may be less familiar with.The first...
2021-12-0611 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#06: Chronotype: Part 3In the final episode of our three-part series about chronotypes, Matt examines the question of whether your chronotype is truly fixed, or if you can change an evening type to a morning type (though you will hear that Matt’s preference is for society to change, not the individual). Matt reviews a fascinating study by an Australian-lead research team that tried to turn night owls into morning larks. Participants had to follow a series of strict rules over the course of a three-week study. This included things such as: setting an alarm to wake up two to thre...
2021-10-1107 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#05: Chronotype: Part 2In the second episode of our three-part series on chronotypes, Matt speaks about what happens when you do not sleep in harmony with your natural chronotype. Unlike morning larks, night owls simply cannot fall asleep easily early at night, which leads to the first and most obvious consequence of not sleeping in line with your chronotype—you don’t sleep as much.Matt explains that morning types sleep over 7-hours per night on average, while evening types can only manage 6.6-hours of sleep per night. Matt also notes the upshot, which is a chronic “sleep debt”, one that accr...
2021-09-2710 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#03: Circadian Rhythms#03 Circadian RhythmsContinuing on from last week’s episode about sleep pressure, today, Matt Walker dives into the second half of the sleep-wake story, circadian rhythm. Matt explains that your circadian rhythm, or your 24-hour internal clock, begins drumming out its loud activating beat just before you wake in the morning and gets louder throughout the day, peaking in the early afternoon and hitting its lowest point in the middle of your sleep phase overnight. Matt describes how circadian rhythm and sleep pressure work independently of one another, yet coincide with a be...
2021-08-2611 min
The Matt Walker Podcast#02: Sleep PressureEpisode 02: Sleep PressureWelcome back to the Matt Walker podcast. Today’s episode looks at the story of sleep pressure - how it works, how you can try to block it or fool it, and why you feel so good after a night of full, peaceful sleep. Matt explains that from the moment you wake up, a chemical called adenosine begins to build up in your body. The longer you’re awake, the more adenosine will build up and the sleepier you will feel. This is called sleep pressure. Once adenosine concentrations peak, usuall...
2021-08-1608 min
The Matt Walker PodcastTrailer & Welcome!The Matt Walker Podcast is all about sleep, the brain, and the body · Matt is Professor of Neuroscience at the University of California, Berkeley · He is the author of the book, Why We Sleep, and has given a few TED talks · Matt is an awkward British nerd who adores science and the communication of science to the public.
2021-07-2603 min
An Idiots Guide to EntertainmentMulan (2020) | ReviewAn Idiot's Guide to Entertainment host Matt Walker gives his thoughts on the new Mulan live action remake to be released on Disney+.
2020-09-0607 min