Welcome to Thrive, the podcast that helps you succeed in study, work, and life at university. In this first episode, we explore the science and importance of sleep with consultant clinical psychologist Dr. Jill McGarry, better known as the Sleep Better Doctor.

Jill shares practical advice and fascinating insights into how sleep affects your memory, emotions, creativity, and overall well-being—especially during your university years. Whether you're a night owl, a nap newbie, or just trying to get through exam season, this episode will help you understand your sleep better—and make it work for you.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why sleep is essential for memory, emotional processing, and physical recovery.
• What happens to your brain when you pull an all-nighter.
• How sleep patterns change with age and culture.
• The science behind napping—and how to do it right.
• How caffeine, sugar, and energy drinks affect your sleep.
• Whether it's okay to scroll your phone in bed.
• How to manage sleep when you're stressed or facing deadlines.
• What to do if you're struggling with long-term sleep issues.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Dr. Jill McGarry’s website: sleepbetterdoctor.co.uk – for more information or to get in touch.

Get in Touch

To provide feedback on what you’ve heard, recommend ideas you’d like to hear in future episodes, or if you’d like to be interviewed, contact us via the form at www.salford.ac.uk/skills/thrive

Acknowledgements

This podcast was made with the assistance of Salford Business School.

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-day

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