Mitzi Joi Williams, MD, sits down with sleep specialist Shantel Branson, MD, to discuss how sleep impacts brain health, memory, mood, and long-term neurologic well-being.
Brain Chat with the Nerdy Neurologist is a podcast hosted by Mitzi Joi Williams, MD that explores the intersection of brain health, wellness, and everyday life. Through conversations with leading experts, the series translates complex neurologic concepts into practical, relatable discussions that empower listeners to better understand their health and make informed decisions. Filmed at the Joy Life Wellness Group in Smyrna, Georgia, the podcast emphasizes approachable, patient-centered education grounded in science and real-world experience.
In this episode, Williams is joined by Shantel Branson, MD, associate professor of neurology at Morehouse School of Medicine, chief of the neurology division at Grady Memorial Hospital, and a sleep medicine specialist, for a discussion on the science of sleep and its critical role in brain health. The conversation explores what happens in the brain during sleep, the stages of sleep and their functions, the glymphatic system’s role in clearing waste products, and how sleep affects memory, mood, and long-term neurologic health. They also discuss common sleep myths, the consequences of chronic sleep deprivation, warning signs of sleep disorders, and practical strategies listeners can implement to improve sleep quality and overall well-being.
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