135: Still Tired After 8 Hours of Sleep? Here’s Why with Dr. Melissa Milanak

Jun 5, 2025

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Why do you feel exhausted even after eight hours of sleep?

Wonder if snoring is actually a problem?

Curious why your brain feels foggy or your body doesn’t bounce back like it used to?

In this episode of The Courage To Be™, clinical psychologist and sleep researcher Dr. Melissa Milanak returns to reveal what’s really going on. She explains how hormonal shifts, trauma, and high stress—especially during midlife and menopause—can disrupt deep and REM sleep, affecting your memory, mood, and metabolism.

Dr. Milanak shares how one simple shift helped a chronic insomniac finally sleep after years of frustration. You’ll learn why melatonin might not help, what your smartwatch isn’t telling you, and how syncing with your body’s natural rhythms can change everything.

If you’ve ever Googled “why can’t I sleep?” or labeled yourself a bad sleeper, this episode offers practical, research-backed strategies that can help you finally feel rested—starting tonight.

🎧 Enjoyed this episode? If it gave you a spark of inspiration or courage, here’s a fun way to take it even further…

🌴 I’m giving away a 7-night, 8-day complimentary vacation at one of over 3,000 resorts worldwide (valued at $2,000–$5,000). One lucky listener wins every month! (Airfare, taxes, and fees not included.)

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Leave a rating and written review of The Courage To Be on Apple Podcasts.
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If you enjoyed this episode. We think you'll enjoy these other episodes:

• ⁠⁠⁠134: Why You're Still Tired After Eight Hours with Dr. Melissa Milanak - https://youtu.be/_seslyXvtac

• 119: Are Your Daily Choices Draining You? with Nancy Juetten - ⁠https://youtu.be/o6mK0qGr0zE⁠

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IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 – 🧠 Introduction

01:39 – 🌙 REM vs Deep Sleep

05:48 – 😴 Apnea & Brain Health