Snoozecast, a podcast that reads stories in a way that helps listeners fall asleep, has been making waves since its launch in 2019. The brainchild of Massachusetts parents Victoria (Vee) Lockard, 43, and Nick Bernat, 39, from Weymouth, the podcast has become a global phenomenon, with listeners from all over the world. The couple started Snoozecast as a way to help their own children fall asleep. However, their interest in creating a podcast to aid sleep soon became apparent. They realized that many people, despite having busy lives, still struggle with falling asleep, and that the way they read stories can make a significant difference. • Reading to their children before bed became a relaxing experience that helped them fall asleep. However, Bernat kept falling asleep during these sessions, which made Vee realize how crucial it was for him to stay awake. • Lockard and Bernat looked for existing sleep aids but couldn’t find one that met their needs. They then decided to create their own podcast, leveraging their love for reading and storytelling. • The podcast focuses on stories that help listeners relax, making them more receptive to falling asleep. The couple often reads stories that they have read to their own children, or that they have discovered through their love of New England. “It’s just assumed that as you grow up, that you’re not supposed to need that anymore,” Lockard said. “But with all the stresses from work and life, plus the added screen time we all have now, sleeping is sometimes much more difficult for adults.
Sleep is a vital component of our lives, and yet, many people around the world struggle with falling asleep. According to a 2018 study, insufficient sleep worldwide is a “pervasive and prominent problem in the modern [24-hour] society.” The study found that reduced sleep duration has been linked to seven of the 15 leading causes of death in the U.S., including cardiovascular disease, malignant neoplasm, cerebrovascular disease, accidents, diabetes, septicemia, and hypertension. • The American Psychology Association reported that during the COVID-19 pandemic, 2 in 3 Americans experienced sleep disruptions, with many reporting they were sleeping either more or less than desired. • Researchers found that sleep disruptions can have a significant impact on mental and physical health, leading to a vicious cycle of sleep disturbances that can be challenging to diagnose and treat. • Despite the challenges, the sleep aids market is expected to grow to $89.11 billion by 2030, driven by the increasing demand for sleep disorders such as insomnia and sleep apnea. New England, with its cozy atmosphere and picturesque landscapes, is a significant source of inspiration for the couple. They often draw from local authors and historical figures to create engaging stories for their listeners.
| Episode Title | Author | Story Type |
|---|---|---|
| “Birds and Brambles” | Bradford Torrey | Ornithological |
| “An Old Road” | Historical Figure from Weymouth | Rambling Walk |
Despite the growing popularity of their podcast, Lockard and Bernat remain committed to their family and their own sleep. They prioritize their household, ensuring that their podcast doesn’t overshadow their family time or their own sleep. The couple continues to record their podcast in their free time, often as they fall asleep themselves. The future of Snoozecast looks promising, with the couple expecting their daughter to join them on the podcast soon. Their daughter has already demonstrated an interest in reading and storytelling, and Lockard and Bernat are excited to share their passion with her. “Welcome to Snoozecast, the podcast designed to help you fall asleep,” their daughter said during one evening dinner conversation. The couple is delighted to see their daughter taking an interest in their work, and they are confident that she will make a valuable contribution to the podcast. In conclusion, Snoozecast is more than just a podcast – it’s a global phenomenon that is helping people from all over the world fall asleep. With its unique approach to storytelling and its commitment to providing high-quality content, Snoozecast is poised to continue its success for years to come.
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