Dr. Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse, MD is a sleep neurologist at the University of Pittsburgh and an advocate for adolescent sleep health. With expertise in the medical and public health implications of sleep deprivation, she has been actively involved in policy advocacy, including championing later school start times. Dr. Fong-Isariyawongse has testified before the Pennsylvania Senate Education Committee and played a key role in introducing legislation to delay school start times. Through her work, she aims to improve the well-being and academic performance of students, and she continues to push for systemic changes that prioritize the mental and physical health of adolescents.

In this episode, we discuss the critical need for adequate sleep in teenagers, the detrimental effects of early school start times, and the importance of public health advocacy in promoting later start times for schools. Dr. Fong shares her journey into advocacy, the challenges faced in changing legislation, and the significant impact that later school start times can have on students' health and academic performance. The conversation emphasizes the need for collective action from parents and communities to push for systemic changes that prioritize the well-being of adolescents.