Mind. Body. Sleep.

Have you ever wondered what actually makes insomnia recovery possible? In this episode, I'm going to talk about exactly that. We'll explore one of the most hopeful principles of neuroplasticity — and why it's the reason getting beyond insomnia isn't just possible… but inevitable when you understand how the brain works.You see, the human brain has the amazing capacity to change associations and shift links.And truly, is there anything more miraculous than that?In this episode, you'll learn how:Your responses play a key role in rewiring the brainInsomnia isn't a sign that something is broken, but a conditioned pattern rooted in hyperarousalChanging your brain's association with wakefulness can be a turning point in recoveryI also share a personal story that illustrates how learned fear responses can shift, and why that same shift is completely possible for you, too.Enjoy!Mentioned Resources:Ep 32: “Neurons that fire together, wire together.”Connect with Beth: 

I had such a lovely time sitting down with Liz, a psychotherapist and alum of the Mind. Body. Sleep. mentorship.Not only did Liz make it through insomnia herself, but she stayed active in the community to support others still on their way.Like so many of us, she tried everything:Impeccable sleep hygieneCBT-ISleep medsBut the more she tried, the more fear crept in.Not just a fear of not sleeping, but a fear of fear itself.Which is such a common part of this journey.This episode is filled with heart and insight. A few standout moments:      “Not only was I afraid of not sleeping, I was afraid of fear.”      “You don't have to heal everything to sleep again.”      “Even a little bit of self-compassion is powerful.”If your nervous system feels stuck in high gear, or you've lost trust with your body, Liz's story will help you feel so much less alone.Enjoy!

Let's talk about doubt. Doubt is something every single person on the recovery path deals with, and I was no exception.In this episode, we take a deeper look at what doubt really is, why it feels so powerful, and how to shift your relationship with it so it no longer holds you back.Come with me and learn: 1. What's actually driving doubt (hint: safety!), and why it's a normal part of the human experience.2. The two kinds of doubt, and why only one of them is worth giving your attention to.3. The exact step-by-step process I use with my clients to help them uncover whatever story is driving their doubt.Recovery isn't about eliminating doubt. It's about changing how you relate to it… and living your life anyway.

Today I'm talking about a mindset that quietly fueled insomnia and kept me stuck for years. This mindset can create pressure, anxiety, and an endless loop of trying to "get it right."If you're feeling stuck... overwhelmed... wondering why your brain still won't let go — this might be a part of the picture.Tune in to explore the quiet beliefs that keep this loop alive, and how to shift out of it for good.Enjoy!

It was such fun to sit down with Richard Wills, resident sleep coach in the Mind. Body. Sleep. Mentorship, to discuss why conventional advice often misses the mark when it comes to insomnia. Tune in to hear:The only two factors that truly influence sleepWhy CBT-I can backfire (even though it's considered the "gold standard")How rigid, rule-based systems can actually increase anxietyWhy more effort keeps you on the hamster wheel if fixesHow simple education becomes life-changing when it targets the real issueThis conversation is warm, honest, and deeply validating.If you've ever felt like a “special case” or that you've “tried everything,” this episode will help you feel seen — and offer a hopeful path forward.If Richard and I can overcome a combined 85 years of insomnia between us, you can too!Connect with Beth: 

This episode is a little science, a little woo, and a whole lot of HOPE.If you've ever felt like the harder you try to sleep, the more impossible it becomes — you're not alone.In this talk, Beth breaks down:Why paying so much attention to sleep makes it less likely to happenHow multiple sleep realities already exist (yes, even the peaceful one!)Why working through sleep anxiety requires looking at the whole versus just the partI loved working on this episode.Getting beyond insomnia isn't about doing more, it's about seeing sleep differently.And sometimes all it takes is one little quantum shift to change everything.Enjoy!

Mike spent months fighting with sleep.Melatonin? Nope.Sleep hygiene? Not the magic answer.CBT-I? Let's just say it had him sitting in the dark, petting his cat, calculating his “sleep score” like a mathematician.The more he tried, the worse things got. Until he realized something HUGE — the best way to control sleep is to not try and control it.This episode is packed with powerful insights you don't want to miss:“I found tremendous power in letting go.”“I don't need that much to recover from insomnia.”“At one point, I was literally sitting on the floor petting my cat thinking, is this really what it takes to sleep?”This interview was such a delight. Mike's story is real. His perspective is sharp. And his humor is the icing on the cake.If you've ever felt trapped in the overthinking, overanalyzing, sleep-obsessing loop, this episode is for you.Connect with Beth Kendall: 

Our world is FLOODED with health advice. And not all of it is helpful.Especially if you're recovering from insomnia. You're going along, working your way back to peaceful sleep, and then BAM! Another scary statistic shows up.And you feel that old fear rise to the surface again. So, what can we do?In this episode, I answer that very thing.Listen in and learn:How overexposure to health information just fuels anxietyWhy avoiding ALL sleep discussions isn't the answer.How to build an internal foundation of trust (so external noise loses its grip).Why triggers aren't setbacks.Your brain is always adapting. You're not at the mercy of outside information and you can control how you engage with it.Connect with Beth Kendall: 

This week I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Michelle Weil, fellow sleep coach (and dear friend), to discuss a powerful question in the insomnia recovery process:Does belief shape behavior, or does behavior shift belief?And why does it even matter?Well, if you're struggling insomnia, you've probably got some unhelpful beliefs about sleep that aren't even true.Do any of these thoughts feel like unshakable facts?"I'll never recover.""My body is broken.""I'm the one person who can't be helped."If so, you're not alone.But what if these persistent thoughts aren't absolute truths? What if they're just well-rehearsed mental loops running on replay?Michelle and I explore:How limiting beliefs unknowingly fuel sleep anxietyWhether belief shifts first — or behavior leads the waySimple ways to challenge old sleep narrativesWhy you don't need perfect beliefs to recoverIf fear-based beliefs are keeping you stuck, this episode is a must!Listen for truths rather than fixes. Because those are the realizations that will lead you back to effortless sleep. Enjoy!

What if insomnia recovery didn't have to be awful?What if it could be one of the most interesting things you ever experience?For me, it was. And it can be for you, too.In this episode, I share the one sentence that transformed my recovery and why I still rely on it today.This simple sentence helped me:Embrace curiosity about my experienceReduce judgmentCreate some distance between myself and anxietyShift from fixing to understandingRecovery, like life, doesn't have to be a constant struggle. It can be a hopeful journey forward and a meaningful chance to deepen your understanding of yourself and the whole human experience.Connect with Beth Kendall: 

When I had insomnia, I'd toss and turn all night, only to fall blissfully asleep right before the alarm went off.Or even weirder, I'd stay awake all night, but then magically fall during my 10-minute snooze alarm.So what gives?Well, it's not as strange as it might seem. In fact, it makes perfect sense.Tune into this episode to understand why this happens and how “less is more” when it comes overcoming insomnia.Enjoy!Connect with Beth Kendall: 

It was an absolute pleasure to sit down with Jennifer, another Mind. Body. Sleep. graduate, to discuss her transformative journey through insomnia. She candidly shares the two factors that LED to her struggle, and the breakthroughs that finally helped her out.On releasing pressure around sleep:"The whole time I was like, ‘Is this physical? Is it hormonal? I need to take a pill.' But when the pressure was off, I slept. That was really eye-opening for me."She also shares her many insights on:The combination of challenges that changed her relationship with sleep How she started breaking the cycleHow she maneuvered through speed bumpsThe key turning points in her recoveryThis is a story about patience. Self-kindness. And faith. By embracing trust and leaning on community, Jennifer found her way back to peaceful sleep.You can, too

Understand all the concepts intellectually but still struggle to sleep?Wondering what you're missing?Feel like you just need that one magical piece of information that's going to make it all click?Then this episode is for YOU.Not only do I share my own personal story of how the bees RADICALLY changed my life. But I also break down why recovery isn't just about intellect — it's about insight. It's about seeing things differently. Tune in to learn:The difference between intellectual understanding and embodied wisdomWhat nature can teach us about sleepHow the left and right hemispheres of the brain influence recoveryWhy letting go of overthinking opens the door to sleepAnd so much more. This episode was a lot of fun to record — I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed creating it

Kim's journey from being a naturally great sleeper to battling insomnia is a raw, real, and deeply inspiring story.Always a champion sleeper, Kim faced her first bout of insomnia after becoming a new mom and experiencing a “perfect storm” of stress, hormonal changes, and personal challenges.A fear of not sleeping took over, leading her into the insomnia trap where sleep became an effort versus just a natural biological process.In this episode, Kim talks about:How letting go of rules turned out to be the best ruleHow reframing separate bedrooms brought her peaceThe magic of no longer postponing joyThe mindset shift that transformed her recoveryHer heartfelt advice for anyone still navigating insomniaKim's story is a powerful reminder to embrace the moment, release perfection, and rediscover joy. Because true healing comes from living, not waiting.Enjoy!Connect with Beth Kendall: 

The wildest thing about sleep is that the more we battle it, the further we get from it.Today's podcast episode explores why insomnia feels like a battle for so many, and why that mindset might be holding you back.I spent most of my life wrestling with insomnia, believing that if I just tried hard enough, I could overcome it.Imagine my surprise to learn it was the exact opposite of that.Sleep isn't something we overcome. It's something we allow.In fact, seeing it as a fight makes our brain think there's a threat, keeping us in fight-or-flight.In this episode, I share a personal story that flipped my perspective. Here's what else I cover:Why insomnia doesn't respond to force or controlThe surprising benefits of not viewing sleep as a battleSimple shifts that help your brain feel safe enough to sleepWhy fighter harder makes it go slowerWhen you step out of the battle and decide to become a teacher that's when the healing beginsIf you're tired of struggling and want a different approach, this episode could be exactly what you're looking for. It's not about trying harder — it's about creating a mental space where sleep feels safe and easy again.Connect with Beth Kendall: 

In this episode, I'm talking all things metaphors and what it looks like to break up with insomnia.It's not about quick fixes (they don't work anyway). It's about unraveling the deep neural pathways that keep us stuck.The journey out of insomnia, much like moving on from love, is messy and nonlinear.It's very up and down. One day, progress feels real. The next, it's like: “When am I ever going to over this??”But as we rewire our brains, life gets bigger, and insomnia gets smaller.Eventually we fall out of insomnia the same way we fall out of love. Join me for a raw, metaphor-driven view of how to finally "break up" with insomnia so you can live a life where sleep doesn't define you.Connect with Beth Kendall:Instagram Work with Beth Kendall:Start the Free Insomnia CourseLearn About the MentorshipFull Show Notes and TranscriptionPlease click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. Thank you!

Is there anything worse than watching the clock tick by hour by hour while not being able to sleep?I don't think so.Time caused me a tremendous amount of suffering when I was going through insomnia because I put a timeline on literally everything related to sleep.My goal with this podcast is to inspire you to think differently about time.Because time and sleep just aren't a great mix any way you slice it.Tune in to hear:How the Greeks think about time (and how it can help us)Why sleep is so hard to describeThe number #1 behavioral tool to get rid of time anxietyThe top 3 questions people ask me about timeWishing you many awe-inspiring moments that exist beyond the constraints of time.Enjoy!Connect with Beth Kendall:Instagram Work with Beth Kendall:Start the Free Insomnia CourseLearn About the MentorshipFull Show Notes and TranscriptionPlease click the button to subscribe so you don't miss any episodes and leave a review if your favorite podcast app has that ability. Thank you!

In this beautiful interview, Majken opens up about her experience with insomnia, which started in her early 20's after a stressful life event.She tried all the traditional avenues over the years including medication and CBTI.But insomnia kept coming back.As a new mom, her sleep struggles resurfaced and eventually Majken found her way into the mentorship.Tune in to hear:How she learned to focus on her responses (rather than trying to fix her sleep), and how this allowed insomnia to gradually loosen its grip.How she learned to observe her brain instead of getting tangled up with it.What got her through a later speed bump.How she developed a more accepting and resilient approach to dealing with sleep disruptions.Majken reflects on the tiny little joys that brought her closer to life, and the unexpected silver linings that came with insomnia.Connect with Beth Kendall:

When you have insomnia, even minor sleep disruptions feel GIGANTIC in the mind.I could hear a pin drop two rooms over.And the reason? A complete mystery to me.I had no idea.Which only made my brain freak-out WORSE.There had to be something seriously wrong with me.But I have good news.If you're someone who notices every noise, every movement, every sleep disruptor known to man...There is absolutely nothing wrong with you.Nothing at all.You just have a super amazing brain.It loves you lots and lots and wants to protect you from anything that could mess up your sleep.That's why sleeping next to someone else feels so completely impossible. Your brain is CONVINCED this is a terrible idea.But you know what? It doesn't have to be this way. Tune into this episode where I walk you through a 3-step process that will guide you back towards sleeping peacefully with a partner again.Enjoy!Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.® Podcast:Apple | SpotifyConnect with Beth Kendall:

Arelys' struggle with insomnia began on a family vacation when she found it hard to sleep at a noisy Airbnb. Upon returning home, she thought her sleep would return.But that's not what happened.Instead, she went through many more months of struggle trying desperately to understand what was going on with her sleep.Finally, she found the mentorship and while skeptical at first, she soon realized that it's entirely possible to recover from insomnia.In this episode, Arelys shares her journey:From being a good sleeper her whole life to having sleep anxietyHow frustrating it was to be tired and NOT tired at the same timeHow Reddit left her more distressed than everThe moment she found some random lady on the internet and found her peopleHow her response to insomnia was causing more sufferingWhat she did to process some of the anger she felt about insomniaThe powerful role of self-kindness in the processWhy simply allowing whatever shows up during recovery is what allows it to goI loved every second of this interview.For Arelys, the mentorship wasn't just about better sleep. It was about living the life she really wants to live and understanding her own power in making it happen.Enjoy!Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.® Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

If you've ever been through the disheartening experience of sleeping better for a while, only to fall “back” into insomnia, this one's for you.Today I'm talking all about speed bumps.And I'm doing it through the lens of David Goggins.Because here's the thing about speed bumps … they're normal.Not only are they normal, but they're necessary.We can't really recover without them.Tune in to hear:Why speed bumps are an important part of the processSome of the sneaky thoughts that like to creep in during these timesThe number one thing to remember when you're in a speed bumpWhere the REAL battle liesWhy NOT trying to break the cycle is what breaks the cycleSpeed bumps aren't a sign that something has gone wrong. They're a sign that things are going right.Enjoy!Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.® Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

When you have insomnia, sleep can feel like a nightly battleground.The harder we try to fix it, the more elusive it becomes. Insomnia is driven by the very efforts we make to escape it.So many people (myself included) get caught in a cycle of trying everything — different teas, blackout curtains, sleep apps — only to find that these efforts just contribute to the problem.It's incredibly frustrating.You might feel completely alone in this, but I assure you, you're not. Many people share this struggle. The good news is there's a way out.Tune in and learn:What effortlessness truly meansWhy I'm fascinated with the flow stateEverything you need to know about sleep effortsThe role of the Law of Reversed EffortHow sleep efforts reinforce the problem they're meant to solveWhy intention is the only thing that mattersBy understanding the concept of effortlessness, we can break free from the cycle of never-ending sleep efforts and let our bodies do what they're naturally designed to do.Which is… sleep.Enjoy!Mentioned Resources:Related Episode: Redefining Insomnia: My 3 Core PhilosophiesSubscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.® Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

Sleep meds or not, this episode is a MUST listen.My friend and fellow sleep coach Aly Hansen gives us a raw and honest look at her sleep med struggle and shares the final piece of the puzzle that set her free.If you have a love/hate relationship with sleep meds...If you feel a pang of guilt every time you take them...If you're terrified you're going to be on them forever...This episode is for you.Listen and learn:How Aly figured out her hidden fearsWhat helped her know she was going to be okayWhy meds don't have to be the enemy of recoveryWhy it's not the med, but how you view them that mattersJoin us for this heartfelt interview where Aly talks about her decent into insomnia and her courageous climb out.We hope you enjoy listening to it as much as we enjoyed creating it!Mentioned Resources:Find Aly on her website or follow her on Instagram. Related Episode: Sleep Meds and Inner ConflictSubscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.® Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

Have you gone from struggling to fall asleep to suddenly waking up during the night? Or maybe you used to wake up early, and now you can't fall asleep? What gives?Rest assured, nothing has gone wrong and it's all a normal part of the recovery process.In this episode, I break down why insomnia patterns can sometimes shift and why it actually makes a lot of sense. Tune in to learn: The brain's intention behind altering sleep patterns Why changing sleep patterns indicate a powerful brain Personal anecdotes from my own experience The importance of not assigning too much significance to these changes How to view shifting patterns as part of the recovery journeyJoin me as I reflect on Michael Jackson's struggle with sleep and why there's so much hope for long-term freedom from insomnia.Enjoy!Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.® Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

Ever wonder WHY you get that annoying jolt of wakefulness the second your head hits the pillow? Or why your brain constantly monitor for sleep?Do you feel an automatic sense of dread in the morning without knowing why?If so, this episode is for you.Most people view insomnia as a SLEEP problem; an unrelenting beast wreaking havoc on life.But I see it differently...Yes, insomnia is a problem. But it's mostly just a PATTERN.A looping survival response running on replay.In my latest podcast episode, I dive into conditioned responses — how they work and what they have to do with insomnia.Tune in to learn:• The simple theory behind conditioned responses• Our amazing ability to change these responses• How to avoid turning neuroplasticity into another sleep effort• How a natural, belief-based approach to insomnia can set you free Our brains are highly adaptable. So, whatever sleep patterns you have today can be changed.Understanding insomnia from this angle transforms it from a mysterious ailment to a learned fear response that can be unlearned.And it's not as hard as you might think. Join me as in this fun-hearted episode where I share tales of tequila and how you can use the mind-body connection to rewire your brain for better sleep.Enjoy!Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

Feeling crushed by the pressure to sleep?Ever have a rough night and then stress about the next one?Find yourself thinking you've failed at sleep?This episode tackles three of the biggest pressure traps that cause insomnia and how to break free of them.Here's what you'll discover:Outcome Attachment: The surprising truth about why turning sleep into a goal can actually keep you from achieving your goal.Timeline Attachment: Why quick fixes are a myth and gradual, incremental changes over time transform the recovery process.Perfectionism: How high standards can sabotage sleep and why self-compassion is your secret weapon.Join me and learn how to shift your mindset to cultivate a more relaxed approach to sleep. Remember, you deserve sleep just the way you are — no pressure needed.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

Today's episode focuses on the most powerful tool we have at our disposal when it comes to insomnia.And no, it has nothing to do with sleep hygiene, sleep rituals, or subjecting yourself to a rigid sleep restriction protocol.But it has EVERYTHING to do with getting to the root of insomnia.Tune in to learn:How we can intentionally shape our brain's perception of dangerWhy long-term success requires getting to the root of the problemThe role of neuroplasticity and how it applies to insomniaHow we can use our mind to change our brainWhy you're way more powerful than you thinkThis empowering episode will give you practical examples and insights into how to rewire the fear response that causes insomnia.Links & Resources:Episode #1: Redefining Insomnia: My 3 Core PhilosophiesEpisode #16: How to Use Indifference to Overcome Sleep AnxietyBook Recommendation: Man's Search for Meaning by Victor FranklSubscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

Is sleep tracking truly helpful ?Should I even be using one?Could I be sabotaging my sleep in a quest to improve it?Contrary to popular belief, the answers to these questions might just surprise you.In this episode of the Mind. Body. Sleep.™ podcast, I share 5 significant reasons why you can ditch your sleep tracker and still improve your sleep.Listen to hear:Why sleep tracking isn't all it's cracked up to beHow it can make sleep anxiety worseThe #1 reason it doesn't help for insomniaIf you're struggling with insomnia, chances are you've considered sleep tracking.Tune in for valuable insight into why this tool may be counterproductive and how you can overcome insomnia without it.Enjoy!Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

You will LOVE this interview with Gemma.Not only does she have the most engaging accent ever, but she also shares her raw and unfiltered journey through insomnia.Many of you will resonate with her story and find solace knowing you're not alone.Gemma went from being a lifelong lover of sleep to fearing she was going to lose her mind. She dives into:How insomnia blindsided herWhat kept it lingeringWhat lead to a reset and what caused a relapseHer path from sleep obsession to sleep freedomWhen you're going through insomnia, you can feel like a whole different person. You know it's not who you really are, but you don't know how to get out of it.Tune in to hear how Gemma found her way out and why you can, too.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | SpotifyWork with Beth:

Feeling lost in the maze of hormone information and how it relates to insomnia?Struggling to figure out what's insomnia and what's disrupted sleep?Not sure where one ends and the other begins?This one is tailored for my ladies, but anyone could benefit from a little clarity on the difference between sleep disruption and full-blown insomnia.Join me as I talk about:The KEY difference between sleep disruption and insomnia.How hormonal fluctuations can trigger insomnia.What to keep in mind as you move forward with your sleep.By the end of this podcast, you'll have a better understanding of what constitutes insomnia and what's just good ol' fashioned sleep disruption. Keep listening to learn the essential things you need to know as you move through these hormonal transitions in your life.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

This week I'm talking all about hyperarousal and the Expectation Effect.Do you find yourself thinking things like:  “I understand all of this logically, so why am I still not sleeping?”  “I didn't go to bed until I was sleepy, but then I still didn't sleep. Why is that?”  “I normally sleep well on the weekends, but this week I didn't. What's going on?”These are all perfectly normal thoughts that can lead to some hyperarousal.Hyperarousal stems from expecting something about a situation to be different from what it actually is.In this episode I first talk about acceptability thresholds:What they areWhy we create themThe two most important things you need to know about themNext, we look at how expectations create resistance to what is — keeping us stuck in the struggle with sleep.Lastly, we explore how to meet this challenge and why expectations might not be as essential as we think.Enjoy!Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

Working with Austyn to get beyond insomnia was such a pleasure and now he's sharing his story to help others.In this heartfelt interview we dive into:The role of OCD in insomniaHow the brain latches on to an intrusive thoughtThe connection between health anxiety and sleep anxietyThe loneliness of insomniaAustyn gives us an honest portrayal of the recovery trajectory and how the concepts of courage, self-compassion, mindfulness, trust, and acceptance come into the picture.Nothing about insomnia is easy. But that doesn't mean there aren't silver linings.It brings me immense joy to witness the transformations of my amazing students. This episode is a must listen for anyone struggling with OCD or sleep anxiety.You can learn more about Austyn and his music HERE.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

This one is all about TRUST, my friends. Because when it comes to insomnia, trust seems to be the missing ingredient.I mean...Could  you even HAVE insomnia if you trusted your own ability to sleep?I don't think so.Let's talk about the intersection between faith and fear, and how these two orientations occupy two sides of the same coin.In this episode, we look at:The pivotal role of trust in the context of insomnia.How I help people reconnect to their trust.My personal definition of insomnia recovery.Join me for my most important episode to date — I hope it guides you back towards trust. Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

Do you JOLT awake right on the cusp of sleep and feel a sense of panic?Does your brain decide to wake you up right after you fall asleep?Do you feel like you're unconsciously monitoring everything about your sleep even while you're falling asleep?This episode is all about hypnic jerks — what they are, why they happen, and what you can do about it.Hypnic jerks were a big part of my insomnia experience, and definitely one of the scariest parts.I could not understand why my body would jolt me awake right on the edge of sleep in a state of total panic like I wanted to escape the room?It made no sense?!Doctors didn't have a clue and I thought for sure I was developing some sort of strange neurological condition.Come to find out, these jerks aren't unusual at all. In fact, they're a common part of the insomnia experience.Tune in to learn why this scary scenario is actually a normal aspect of our fight-or-flight system and how you can work with them in a helpful way.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

This episode is a shout-out to all my fellow analytical, detail-oriented, problem-solving, Type A, perfectionistic code-crackers.I know you're out there!If you find yourself meticulously scrutinizing every detail of your life looking for clues as to why you have insomnia, this one's for you.We deep dive into a common behavior I call ‘pattern-seeking.' This natural facet of our safety system helps us survive in the world, but in the case of insomnia, often turns into patternicity.Patternicity looks for patterns that don't necessarily exist and makes predictions based off those perceived patterns.Tune in to hear more about:How pattern-seeking takes shape during insomniaWhat's really driving itThe MOST crucial pattern of allTowards the end of the podcast, I share three key insights about pattern-seeking:Education and awareness: Understanding WHY your brain engages in certain behaviors empowers you.Examining the driver: Look beyond the behavior at the motivations driving it, so you can recognize if it's rooted in trust or fear.  The only code to crack: Trying to fix something that isn't fundamentally broken only confuses the unconscious mind (where sleep lives).By changing how you respond to insomnia, you can initiate a shift in how insomnia responds to you.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

Sleep meds were the absolute BANE of my existence.I loathed taking them but also really needed them, which entangled me in a web of constant worry about the impact they were going to have on my life.But here's the twist...That changed pretty quickly once I understood what insomnia was and why it was happening.In today's episode, I share the ups and downs of my personal journey and explore the Mind. Body. Sleep. mentorship's unique stance on medication during insomnia recovery.Then, I talk about where the real conflict lies and why it's not as straightforward as you might think.Lastly,  I share what FINALLY got me off medications for good, and how the experience changed how I view meds in general.Key highlights include:Why it goes beyond JUST medication How our beliefs play a roleWhy I struggled SO much during my own journeyHow working with a sleep coach can be a game-changerIntegrating medications into the recovery processWhere true freedom liesJoin me in this transformative episode to change your outlook on sleep meds as you navigate the recovery path.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

Hello, my friends! This one is all about measuring PROGRESS.When you're going through insomnia, of course you want sleep more than life itself — that's totally understandable. But let's be mindful of how we measure progress because one leads to stress, and the other safety.In this episode, I challenge the conventional measure of progress and introduce a novel perspective:Progress is better assessed by how one RESPONDS to sleep than the quantity or quality of sleep itself.What?! Tune in to learn:Why relying on sleep as a way to define progress might be holding you backHow directing attention to our responses brings about profound changeThe goal versus byproduct conceptStrategies to ease pressure and overcome performance anxietyOvercoming insomnia is a nuanced journey but it doesn't have to be hard. (It's certainly not harder than insomnia itself.)As you move forward, remember: self-kindness is always an optioncelebrating the little things is actually the BIG thingprogress doesn't always show up as sleep firstHappy New Year!Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

Finding real help for insomnia can feel daunting.Mainly because there are TWO different conversations going on in the sleep world: 1. Sleep optimization: This conversation focuses on improving sleep for people who don't have insomnia, typically through lifestyle changes and sleep hygiene practices.2. Insomnia: This conversation addresses the underlying conditioned fear and anxiety driving chronic sleeplessness.The stark contradiction between these two conversations makes it crucial to understand them.Tune in to this information-packed episode to discover:The importance of understanding the ROOT CAUSE of insomniaWhat separates sleep disruption from insomniaWhy sleep hygiene is a waste of timeWhy focusing even MORE on sleep isn't helpful for insomniaHow relying on external interventions can erode trust over timeGaining a better understanding of these two conversations is key on the path back to sleep freedom. And trust me, once you grasp the distinction, you'll start seeing it everywhere.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

In this episode, I not only spill the beans on my newfound passion for Peloton, but I go deeper into why our brains won't let us sleep.Join me to learn:Why insomnia is based in survivalHow insomnia becomes a fearThe role of hyperarousalThe difference between real and perceived dangerThe significance of mindfulness during recoveryWhy fixing sleep doesn't workThis deep dive into perceived threat responses offers hope and unveils why the principles of neuroplasticity empowers us to go beyond our reptilian brain.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

Welcome to this insightful interview with the lovely Lauren Meikle joining us all the way from South Africa. Lauren opens up about her unexpected journey through insomnia.It all started when she started teaching K-Pop dance classes…In this powerful conversation, Lauren reveals:How her relationship to sleep started to changeWhy she had to step back from teaching dance The resurgence of insomnia and its toll on her lifeWhy she felt like she was losing her mindHow chasing more things to sleep ultimately failed herWhat made insomnia the most challengingHow a single word explained the whole thingWhat the path out of insomnia looked likeLauren shares her story to provide hope for others going through insomnia.You can check out even more gems from her in this wonderful interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPerp34TR9oSubscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

In today's episode we explore the powerful concept of INDIFFERENCE. Fostering an attitude of indifference is a transformative way to acknowledge your brains messages without being overly fazed them.You're not taking whatever it's telling you as the unequivocal TRUTH of the situation.Insomnia is a conditioned pattern of fear. But we can nurture our brains to let go of this fear. By responding from a place of indifference (versus reinforcement), we can forge new pathways around what the brain perceives as a threat.Examples of indifference include:“Oh well”“Whatever”“So what?”When the brain is signaling DANGER, DANGER, DANGER. We're saying, “Whatever, I'm actually okay.”Indifference can be valuable because it helps the brain perceive a sense of safety.Before you know it, sleep becomes sleep again — just a natural part of life.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

Do you ever wake up and wonder if you even slept at all?Do you feel like your body is sleeping but your brain is awake?Do you feel like you're in some kind of weird limbo state; half-asleep and half-awake?If so, this episode is tailored specifically for you!One of the most bizarre aspects of my own insomnia experience was the seeming inability I had to sleep deeply. My brain wouldn't let me cross fully into sleep no matter what I did.Hypersleep is a common phenomenon, but without understanding what it is or why it happens, it can feel pretty scary.Finally, after decades of feeling like I had a broken brain, I understood what was going on. And that made it SO much easier to get beyond.Join me in this episode and discover:What paradoxical insomnia isThe two crucial factors that affect sleepWhy nothing is inherently wrongHow to navigate this peculiar sleep stateWhy it won't last foreverOnce this paradoxical mystery fades,  hypersleep becomes deeper sleep. And you can get back to your big, beautiful life.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast:Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

In this compelling episode, I sit down with Richard Wills MD, resident sleep coach for the Mind. Body. Sleep. mentorship program. Throughout this thoughtful interview, he candidly shares the remarkable 40-year journey that has been his struggle with insomnia.Tune in for a captivating story of how insomnia starts... and how it ends.Here's a sneak peek of what you'll hear:How insomnia started in med schoolHow sleep deprivation became glorified during his residencyThe challenges that came with doing CBT-I three timesHow he cultivated an attitude of indifferenceThe creative strategies he used to befriend wakefulnessWhat made him decide to become a sleep coachJoin this conversation with Richard as we dive into the interesting and enlightening story of his battle with insomnia and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast: Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth:

Do you ever feel like insomnia is slowly starting to take over your life?Are you wondering if you're ever going to be who you were before insomnia?Is your life getting smaller and smaller but you're not really sure what to do about it?This episode is for you.The insomnia identity can sneak up you…First, you give up things that you really enjoy like coffee or wine (even though they never affected your sleep before). Then, you stop going out with friends at night (too close to bedtime and what if you don't sleep?). Soon, you stop making early morning appointments (too much pressure to get up). Before you know it, the mere mention of a vacation seems scary and out of the question.Every aspect of life gets filtered through the lens of: “How will this affect my sleep?”Tune in to learn:Why we build up protective patterns of beliefWhat you can do to start moving away from insomniaThe profound influence our focus has on our attentionHow to find your North StarWhy self-blame isn't the answerWhere to wisely put your attentionThe gradual process of shifting your identityRemember: You are NOT defined by insomnia. You are having the experience of insomnia. It's not who you are, just a temporary experience to be had. Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast: Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth: 

Is the association you have with your bed making it difficult to sleep?Possibly, but I think there's a bit more to the story.This episode explores the role of the bed in insomnia and presents a new perspective on how the brain perceives this association.Tune in to learn:Why the bed theory didn't make sense to meThe true driver behind sleeplessnessWhy cues don't equal causeWhat really made the difference in my bedWhen it makes sense to change your relationship with the bedIf you're worried that you've developed a negative association with your bed, this episode is a must-listen.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast: Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth: 

Have you struggled with feelings of fear or anxiety during insomnia?This can look like:Panic at night lying in bedFear around bedtimeLow grade feelings of dread or doomAnxiety that comes out of the nowhereAnticipatory anxiety about late nights or tripsHow to go about processing these emotions isn't always clear!In this episode, I share a 3-step framework for HOW TO FEEL YOUR FEELINGS:Awareness: Recognizing fear is the first step towards addressing it.Compassion: Rewiring your brain from danger to safety through self-kindness.Create a new experience: Our brains learn primarily through experiences - when the experience changes the pattern changes.Tune in for a deeper understanding of how to feel your feelings.Who knew something so simple could be so revolutionary?!Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast: Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth: 

Hey there new moms, this one is for you!This insightful conversation is with Talia Cooper, an intuitive eating coach who's been in the trenches of postpartum sleep disruption. And in her case, insomnia kicked in when her daughter actually started sleeping BETTER!Here's a sneak peek of some of the wisdom she's dropping:The a-ha moment she had after infant sleep trainingHow old eating patterns showed up during sleep strugglesHow sleep became an obsessionThe big eye-opener she had about hyperarousalHow rules and rigidity create pitfalls for sleepHow my free email course rerouted her sleep approachWhy it's all comes back to TRUSTThis wonderful interview is sure to help anyone struggling with the postpartum sleep puzzle!Connect With Talia: taliacoopercoaching.comSubscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast: Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth: 

This episode is ALL about the unconscious mind.Sleep at its very core is SIMPLE. There is nothing you need to do or be. But could we be missing an opportunity to understand insomnia from greater perspective?Could insomnia itself be a conditioned fear that lives beneath our conscious awareness?I certainly think so!In this episode, I share 3 reasons WHY understanding the unconscious mind isn't just valuable, but transformative.1. It knows WAY more than the conscious mind does.It's where emotions areIt's where the immune system residesThe nervous system is a representation of the unconscious mindBeliefs and value systems live in the unconscious mind2. It helps us better understand ourselvesInsomnia is a habit Anything we DO with repetition, THINK with repetition, or FEEL with repetition becomes habituated in the nervous systemRepetition creates an unconscious belief or thought like: “I'm not a good sleeper,” which eventually moves over to the unconscious mind (to clear up space in the conscious mind)The story we tell ourselves over and over becomes the realityWe can get addicted to a belief,  ideology or story3. It makes it easier to make changes in your lifeWe're missing a greater intelligence to work withHelps people tell new storiesChanging habits = changing the brainIf you're curious about your own life experience and want to understand insomnia from an unconscious level, this episode is for you.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast: Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth: 

The “sleepy rule” is a popular one. But does it always apply?In this episode I unpack the pros and cons behind waiting until you're sleepy to go to bed.If you find yourself thinking:“Am I sleepy yet?” “Is this a good time to go to bed?”“Is this sleepy or just fatigue?”“What if I'm not sleepy enough?”This podcast is for you!I talk about:Chasing sleep and what that looks likeThe big idea behind waiting until you're sleepy to go to bedHow the brain shifts into “monitoring mode” looking for sleepyHow it can become an unintentional means of avoidanceAt the very end, I share the recommendation l offer most of my clients and why I believe: “There are no rules when it comes to sleep. Only decisions.”Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast: Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth: 

Have you done some crazy things to sleep?Spent tons of money trying everything?Feel like you're the ONLY one who has gone to such lengths?Well, you're NOT alone!Join close friend and fellow sleep coach, Michelle Weil, and I as we share some of the wildest things we've ever done for sleep and why we can laugh about them now.In this episode, we dive into:What Seinfeld had to do with Michelle's battle with insomnia.The most expensive thing Beth did for sleep.The bizarre environments we could sleep in (and the luxury places we couldn't).Why we love Huberman but question some of his sleep advice.How we see people fall into the trap of insomnia and how to avoid it.Some of the sleep rules we followed religiously in our quest for sleep.Tune in as we share the highs and lows of our sleep journeys and stick around until the very end to hear about the unexpected silver linings that came from insomnia.Connect with Michelle Weil:  hopefulmind.com Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast: Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth: 

Have you ever wondered WHY, despite sleeping better, you can actually feel more tired than you did before you were sleeping?When I had insomnia, I felt either wired but tired OR like a complete zombie.There was no middle ground.Which made no sense whatsoever.Today, we're taking the mystery out of this upside-down characteristic of insomnia. Tune in to hear more about:Unmasking hyperarousal: I'll demystify the term and show you how it relates to the process of sleep.Why it's so normal: Discover why feeling more tired despite better sleep is such a common experience for many.How to make it a part of your recovery process: This shift in perspective will keep you moving in a good direction.By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of this strange struggle and why it can actually be a sign you're on the exact right path.Subscribe to The Mind. Body. Sleep.™ Podcast: Apple | Spotify | GoogleWork with Beth: