#145 Beyond Tired: Sleep, Motherhood, and the Science of Rest with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown

In this insightful conversation, Kyrie sits down with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown, a sleep medicine physician, author of Beyond Tired, and advocate for holistic sleep solutions. They dive deep into the science of sleep, its impact on overall well-being, and practical strategies for improving sleep quality, particularly for busy moms and professionals.

Dr. Brown shares her personal journey of struggling with sleep deprivation and burnout during medical school and motherhood, which led her to specialize in pediatric sleep medicine. She explains how cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi) is a powerful, research-backed tool for retraining the brain to improve sleep. Kyrie relates to these challenges, sharing her own experiences with PTSD-related sleep disturbances and seeking guidance on improving her rest.

The conversation also explores the importance of sleep hygiene—covering bedtime routines, environmental factors, and the role of diet, physical activity, and social media consumption. Dr. Brown breaks down common sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome, emphasizing the need for proper evaluation and treatment. She also touches on the potential impact of hormonal changes on sleep, offering insights into managing these shifts, especially for women navigating different life stages.

In addition to providing expert advice, Dr. Brown discusses her work supporting parents in helping their children develop healthy sleep patterns. She highlights the importance of collaboration with professionals like lactation consultants and pediatricians to address underlying issues affecting children’s sleep.

The episode wraps up with actionable steps for improving sleep, Dr. Brown’s resources—including her book, coaching programs, and clinical sleep services—and a discussion on the importance of setting boundaries for better rest. Kyrie and Dr. Brown also explore future collaboration opportunities to continue spreading awareness about sleep health.

 

Find Dr. Brown: @restfulsleepmd

https://www.therestfulsleepplace.com/

 

Find Kyrie: @theconfidentmompreneur

www.theconfidentmompreneur.com