logo
episode-header-image
Dec 2024
49m 43s

#87 - Sleep, Trauma Memories, AI & Memor...

DR. MATT WALKER
About this episode

Dr. Charan Ranganath returns to explore the complexities of human memory with Matt here today. Together, they delve into memory's architecture, examining how sleep, trauma, and AI impact its function. The discussion covers episodic and semantic memory, emphasizing the role of sleep in memory consolidation and challenging the traditional "archive" model with Dr. Ranganath proposing a dynamic web of interconnected associations instead. 

The conversation then shifts to trauma's effects, focusing on PTSD and innovative therapeutic approaches—including psychedelics—designed to enhance neural plasticity and reprocess traumatic memories. Nightmares and noradrenaline's role are explored, revealing how understanding memory's mechanisms can lead to better mental health.

Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.

Are sleep troubles keeping you up at night? Matt used to be a skeptic about meditation, but 7 years ago, he tried it using a fantastic meditation app called ‘Calm’, and it transformed his sleep! Now, he meditates for 10 minutes before bedtime every night! He’s also partnered with Calm who have been generous enough to offer his podcast listeners an exclusive 40% discount on their premium subscription! All you have to do is go to calm.com/mattwalker and take advantage of this incredible deal! Head on over now and improve your sleep today!

One of today’s sponsors, 23andMe, provides genetic insights into health and sleep, and Matt, who has used it for eight years to understand genetic risks, is impressed by their sleep-focused data. With details on chronotype—whether you’re genetically more inclined to be a morning person or night owl—along with insights on sleep quality, depth, and insomnia risk, 23andMe’s reports offer valuable understanding of your unique sleep patterns. Explore your sleep genetics at 23andMe.com/MattWalker for 10% off your service. Total Health membership includes services initiated and performed by third-party clinicians and lab providers through the 23andMe platform. Additional terms and conditions also
apply. See 23andme.com to learn more. Total Health Membership not available to residents of HI, NJ, NY, RI and US territories. Check with your FSA/HSA administrator to confirm eligibility.

Another great sponsor of the show is AG1, a comprehensive nutritional drink trusted by thousands worldwide, including Matt! For nearly four years and counting, he has relied on AG1 to fuel his post-workout routine with its powerhouse blend of over 75 essential minerals, vitamins, probiotics, and prebiotics, meticulously crafted to support your daily nutritional needs. AG1 is registered and approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, boasting GMP badges for quality assurance. As a special offer for our listeners, when you try AG1, you'll receive a complimentary one-year supply of both Vitamin D and K2, and with your first subscription, you'll also receive five free AG1 travel packs! Visit AG1 to explore AG1's range of offerings and claim your exclusive offer.

As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you’d like to share, please reach out to Matt on Instagram.

Matt: Instagram <

Up next
Oct 6
#109 - How to Get More REM Sleep
Matt takes a deep dive into REM sleep this week, highlighting methods to enhance this vital stage for emotional regulation and creativity. Detailing pharmacological approaches, he focuses on the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and how medications like donepezil and modern DORAs ca ... Show More
51m 42s
Sep 29
Cozy Cabin Retreat: A Sleep Story Read by Matt Walker
In 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. ... Show More
29m 58s
Sep 22
#108 Implanting False Memories Into Your Brain
In 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 th ... Show More
24m 57s
Recommended Episodes
Jun 2025
Essentials: The Science & Practice of Perfecting Your Sleep
In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode my guest is Dr. Matt Walker, PhD, Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley and host of The Matt Walker Podcast, which focuses on the science and impact of sleep. We explore the importance of sleep a ... Show More
41m 2s
Dec 2024
#883 - Dr Matthew Walker - The Science Of Perfect Sleep
Dr. Matthew Walker is a neuroscientist, professor at UC Berkley, and author. Many of the mental and physical challenges you might be facing could have a surprisingly simple solution: more sleep. But why is sleep so essential? What happens when we sleep, and how can we optimize ou ... Show More
2h 43m
Oct 2024
2452: The Hidden Hormone That is Disrupting Your Sleep With Dr. Stephen Cabral
 The Hidden Hormone that is Disrupting Your Sleep with Dr. Stephen Cabral The 4 stages of sleep and how you can get deeper in them. (1:31) What sleep “aides” impact sleep the most? (7:55) The best tracking devices. (9:09) What are the most common reasons why people have sleep iss ... Show More
47m 18s
Sep 16
Unlocking the Secrets to Better Sleep: What You Need to Know with Diane Macedo
In this episode, Diane Macedo unlocks the secrets to better sleep as she shares what you need to know. From her personal experiences with sleep challenges, she shares something counterintuitive: how sleep isn't something we do, it's something that happens when we stop trying so h ... Show More
1h 1m
Sep 2024
TMHS 829 - Do THIS at Night To Get Deeper Sleep & Transform Your Body
Sleep is a critical pillar of human health. Getting a good night of sleep is an important input for your mood, brain health, gut, and so much more. And luckily, learning how to optimize your sleep is simple when you understand the key behaviors that impact your biology. Today you ... Show More
1h 18m
Nov 2024
My Top Tips for a Better, More Restful Night’s Sleep | Dr. Mark Hyman
Forget counting sheep—let’s talk about the simple and scientifically-proven tweaks that’ll have you sleeping like a pro. In this episode, I’m revealing my personal routine that turned my restless nights into deep, uninterrupted sleep. Learn how to fix those sneaky issues like blo ... Show More
27m 51s
Feb 2024
223 - Bonus: Try This Bedtime Drink to Lower Stress Hormones and Improve Sleep
Want to try my nervous system nightcap?  For the last few months, I’ve been sipping this simple recipe about 30 minutes before I go to bed and it&apos;s been a game-changer in helping me get quality sleep and have more energy during the day. So, of course, I wanted to share it wi ... Show More
7m 49s
Dec 2024
How to Get the Best Sleep of Your Life & How to be Gracefully Assertive - SYSK Choice
For years, mattresses and pillows carried a warning tag that said “Warning: Do Not Remove This Tag Under Penalty of Law”. Although they have softened the language a bit, there is still a warning. So why does anyone care if you remove the tag on your own pillow? This episode begin ... Show More
50m 27s
Sep 25
How to Calm Catecholamines for Deeper Sleep
Do you ever feel wired, anxious, or restless at night even when you’re exhausted? The reason often comes down to catecholamines, the stimulating brain chemicals (dopamine, norepinephrine, and adrenaline) that keep your mind and body in overdrive. While these neurotransmitters are ... Show More
13m 28s