AASM’s Talking Sleep Podcast Highlights Project Sleep Leadership & Patient Advocates

Project Sleep is proud to share the latest episode of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine’s Talking Sleep podcast, “Patient Advocacy in Sleep Medicine,” featured three powerful voices from our community: Julie Flygare, President & CEO of Project Sleep; Emma Cooksey, Project Sleep’s Sleep Apnea Program Manager; and Matt Horsnell, Rising Voices speaker and longtime advocate.

Hosted by Dr. Seema Khosla, this conversation shines a light on how patient advocates are reshaping the future of sleep medicine, from policy and funding to clinical practice and public understanding.

The episode begins with personal stories: what brought Julie, Emma, and Matt to this work, and how living with sleep disorders fuels their commitment to systemic change. From there, the discussion expands into the many dimensions of advocacy. Everything from legislative efforts that influence federal priorities, to educational outreach that challenges misconceptions, and research advocacy that helps shape the scientific agenda was discussed.

Project Sleep’s initiatives feature prominently, including our Sleep Helpline, the Rising Voices storytelling program, and our role in strengthening patient-centered conversations across the field. The guests also explore how clinicians can meaningfully engage in advocacy alongside patient-led organizations, collaborating without overshadowing lived experience.

Whether you’re a healthcare provider, a person living with a sleep disorder, or someone passionate about advancing sleep health, this episode offers essential guidance and inspiration.

Listen to “Patient Advocacy in Sleep Medicine” Now:

Thank you to Julie Flygare, Emma Cooksey, and Matt Horsnell for sharing their lived experiences and powerful advocacy perspectives, and to Dr. Seema Khosla for facilitating such a thoughtful, engaging conversation. We’re also grateful to the AASM and Talking Sleep for elevating patient voices and encouraging listeners to connect with Project Sleep!

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