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Insomnia Project | Calm Conversations to Help You Sleep
Sleep Podcast: Emojis and Dahlias | The Insomnia Project
In this episode of The Insomnia Project sleep podcast, Amanda and Marco settle into a calm, easygoing conversation shaped entirely by listener suggestions. Drifting between the small, expressive world of emojis and the gentle, grounding practice of planting dahlias, this episode offers a soothing blend of digital communication and hands-in-the-soil simplicity.
As the conversation unfolds, they reflect on how tiny symbols can carry surprisingly big meaning — from the subtle differences between heart emojis to the ways we express tone and feeling through text. From there, the discussion softens into Marco’s experience planting dahlias and wondering about seasonal care, including whether they’ll need to be dug up in the fall based on his climate.
Whether you're looking for a calming podcast to help you fall asleep, ease anxiety, or simply relax while working, this gentle and wandering conversation provides a peaceful place for your thoughts to land.
What we talk about in this episode:
• Listener-inspired topics and the comfort of community suggestions
• Emojis, digital expression, and what all the different hearts can mean
• Favourite emojis and how we each use them in everyday communication
• Marco planting dahlias and learning through hands-on gardening
• Seasonal gardening questions, including lifting bulbs in cooler climates
• The calming contrast between digital life and time spent in the garden
This episode is perfect for:
• Falling asleep naturally without medication or meditation
• Winding down after a long or stressful day
• Managing nighttime anxiety and a racing mind
• Listening at work to stay calm and relaxed
• Anyone who enjoys light conversation about everyday topics like emojis and gardening
The Insomnia Project is a top-rated sleep podcast and sleepcast for overthinkers. Our quiet, unhurried conversations are designed to ease anxiety, quiet racing thoughts, and help you drift off naturally — whether you're listening in bed, at your desk, or anywhere you need a moment of calm.
If this episode helped you relax or sleep, please consider leaving us a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It really helps others discover the show.
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12. Sleep Podcast: Gardening & Game Shows | The Insomnia Project
27:47||Season 11, Ep. 12In this episode of The Insomnia Project sleep podcast, Amanda and Marco ease into a gentle, garden-inspired conversation about the flowers growing in their front yard and the quiet rhythms of tending to them throughout the season. With a calm and thoughtful approach, Amanda shares how she selected blooms that would carry color from early spring through late summer, along with the small delights — and occasional challenges — that come with planning a garden that evolves over time.As the conversation meanders, Marco shares a childhood confession involving a cherry tree when he was eight years old, leading them into a surprisingly cozy and nostalgic deep dive into classic game shows. From Name That Tune to Sale of the Century, the discussion drifts through memories of television, music, and the comforting familiarity of shows from the past.Whether you're looking for a relaxing podcast to help you fall asleep, ease anxiety, or simply enjoy a calm moment while working or unwinding at home, this episode offers a soft and wandering listening experience.What we talk about in this episode:• Planning a front garden with flowers that bloom throughout the season • Amanda’s approach to choosing plants for continuous color and interest • The small joys and gentle challenges of maintaining a garden • Marco’s childhood story about a cherry tree • A nostalgic deep dive into classic game shows like Name That Tune and Sale of the Century • The comfort of familiar TV memories and easy conversationThis episode is perfect for:• Falling asleep naturally without medication or meditation • Winding down after a long or stressful day • Managing nighttime anxiety and a racing mind • Listening at work to stay calm and relaxed • Anyone who enjoys gardening, nostalgia, and gentle storytellingThe Insomnia Project is a top-rated sleep podcast and sleepcast for overthinkers. Our quiet, unhurried conversations are designed to ease anxiety, quiet racing thoughts, and help you drift off naturally — whether you're listening in bed, at your desk, or anywhere you need a moment of calm.If this episode helped you relax or sleep, please consider leaving us a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It really helps others discover the show.
10. Sleep Podcast: Unusual Sounds That Help You Sleep & Things on the Periphery | The Insomnia Project
26:32||Season 11, Ep. 10In today’s episode of The Insomnia Project, Amanda and Marco ease into a gentle, meandering conversation about what it means to exist on the periphery of something you understand deeply. Marco reflects on his connection to the world of hairdressing—an industry he knows intimately, yet experiences from just outside the spotlight. Together, they explore that curious feeling of being close to something without being fully immersed in it, and how that perspective can be both comforting and quietly fascinating.The conversation drifts into the idea of unexpected soothing sounds—those surprising, everyday noises that shouldn’t be relaxing, but somehow are. From subtle background hums to oddly specific textures of sound, Amanda and Marco share what brings them calm and why unconventional “white noise” might be more personal than we think.They also reminisce about their first jobs, revisiting early work experiences with warmth, humor, and a sense of nostalgia. These gentle reflections add to the cozy, familiar tone that listeners have come to love.Whether you’re winding down for sleep, managing nighttime anxiety, or simply looking for a calm, low-stakes listen, this episode is designed to help you relax and drift off.The Insomnia Project is a top sleep podcast (or sleepcast) that offers quiet, engaging conversations to ease your mind and help you rest—perfect for listening in bed, during moments of stress, or even while working when you need a sense of calm.#SleepPodcast #InsomniaRelief #RelaxingPodcast #CalmConversations #SleepHelp #BedtimeListening #MindfulMoments #SoothingSounds #AnxietyRelief #SleepBetter
9. Sleep Podcast: Trains and Frugality | The Insomnia Project
29:29||Season 11, Ep. 9In this calming episode of The Insomnia Project, Amanda and Marco ease into a gentle conversation about their shared love of train travel and the unique charm of slow journeys. From there, they explore North American cities that offer a distinctly European feel, with Quebec City taking the top spot for its old-world beauty and atmosphere. Along the way, Amanda shares a surprising story about almost being cast in a music video for Train, adding a light and unexpected twist to the discussion. The episode then settles into a thoughtful and relaxing chat about frugal living, as the hosts consider whether Amanda should start her own frugal podcast and what it really means to live simply and intentionally. If you’re looking for a peaceful podcast to unwind with, whether you’re falling asleep, managing anxiety, or just relaxing at work, this episode offers a cozy blend of travel, storytelling, and mindful spending. Fans of sleep podcasts and calming conversations will also enjoy revisiting past episodes referenced throughout this discussion.Here are the past episodes we referenced on today's episode:St. Pierre & MicquelonStowe Vermont episodeBackpack episode
8. Sleep Podcast: Pens and Ink | The Insomnia Project
32:48||Season 11, Ep. 8Pens and Ink | A Calming Conversation for Sleep and RelaxationIn this soothing episode of The Insomnia Project, Amanda and Marco take a gentle deep dive into the world of pens and ink, exploring personal preferences, favourite writing tools, and the subtle joys of putting pen to paper. Whether you’re a stationery enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing podcast to help with sleep, this quiet conversation offers a calming escape from a busy mind.Marco shares stories from his travels to Paris and Japan in search of the perfect pen, reflecting on the small pleasures of discovery and craftsmanship. Amanda brings a practical perspective, discussing the importance of reliable, leak-free pens for everyday life—especially when tossing them into a backpack without worry.As the conversation meanders in true Insomnia Project fashion, Amanda and Marco take an unexpected and cozy detour into 1980s sitcoms, focusing on the work of Ann Jillian and her memorable television roles. This nostalgic tangent adds a comforting, familiar rhythm that listeners can drift along with.Perfect for listening while falling asleep, relaxing at home, or even unwinding at work, this episode continues The Insomnia Project’s reputation as a top sleep podcast designed to ease anxiety and quiet your thoughts.#sleep #insomniapodcast #relaxingpodcast #sleepcast #calmconversation #stationerylove #fountainpens #nostalgia #80stv #relaxation
7. Sleep Podcast: The Art of Folding Towels | The Insomnia Project
26:51||Season 11, Ep. 7On today’s episode of The Insomnia Project, Marco and Amanda ease into a calm and cozy conversation about the surprisingly soothing world of towels, sheets, and everyday routines.The episode begins with a gentle discussion about towels — how to fold them, how Marco approaches the task, and why something so simple can feel oddly satisfying. From there, the conversation drifts into the ongoing (and very relatable) challenge of folding a fitted sheet. If you’ve ever struggled with that elusive skill, you’re not alone — and you may just find comfort in the shared experience.As the conversation unfolds, Marco and Amanda chat about a few courses they’re taking through the city — though not necessarily the ones you might expect. It’s a light, curious moment that invites listeners to wonder: what would your guess be?In true Insomnia Project fashion, Amanda also pulls back the curtain a little, sharing her appreciation for showing “how the sausage is made” — offering listeners a relaxed peek behind the scenes of the podcast itself.This episode is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing sleep podcast to help quiet the mind, ease anxiety, and gently drift toward rest. Whether you’re lying awake at night, winding down after a long day, or listening at work for a sense of calm, this soft and meandering conversation is here to keep you company.The Insomnia Project is a top sleep podcast for overthinkers — where simple conversations help you slow down, unwind, and fall asleep naturally.Listen when:You can’t fall asleepYou need a calm distraction from racing thoughtsYou’re folding laundry and want companyYou’re looking for a peaceful sleepcast#sleeppodcast #insomniarelief #fallasleepfast #calmpodcast #sleepcast #relaxingaudio #bedtimeroutine #mindfulnessuViJ3SNIF5fq3mgVhMZw
6. Sleep Podcast: Packing a Suitcase | The Insomnia Project
27:55||Season 11, Ep. 6Packing a Suitcase | A Calming Conversation for SleepLooking for a relaxing sleep podcast to help you unwind, quiet busy thoughts, or gently fall asleep? In this episode of The Insomnia Project, Marco and Amanda settle in for a calm, meandering conversation about the simple ritual of packing a suitcase.From Amanda’s beloved neck pillow (and how she carefully makes space for it) to Marco’s thoughtful packing habits — including what he tucks inside his shoes — the discussion drifts through the small, personal details that turn travel preparation into a comforting routine. Along the way, Amanda shares a “spilly” day, and Marco reflects on the unexpected discovery of a birthday card found three months late.As always, the conversation is low-stakes, gentle, and designed to quiet the mind, making it perfect for bedtime listening, reducing anxiety, or creating a peaceful background while you work or relax.So whether you’re preparing for a trip or simply looking for a soothing sleep podcast, let this cozy conversation guide you toward rest.If you enjoy the show, consider sharing this episode with a friend who could use a little calm.We’d love to hear from you: What’s one essential item you always pack in your suitcase?#sleeppodcast #insomniapodcast #relaxingpodcast #sleepconversation #calmpodcast #bedtimepodcast #fallasleepfast
5. Sleep Podcast: Who’s Crockett and Who’s Tubbs? | The Insomnia Project
27:01||Season 11, Ep. 5A new piece of podcast gear has Marco feeling especially jazzed in this episode of The Insomnia Project — and naturally that excitement leads the conversation in some unexpected directions.What begins as a chat about the podcast’s new preamp quickly drifts into the world of jazz hands and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse. Marco confidently recalls details about Fosse’s life, only to realize mid-conversation that he may have gotten one key detail wrong… which leads the hosts to rediscover that the answer was, in fact, Anne Reinking.From there the conversation gently wanders, as it often does, into the world of The Insomnia Project itself. Marco mentions that the entire catalogue of episodes is now available on YouTube, which he believes gives the show a bit of a Miami Vice vibe. Amanda isn’t entirely convinced and naturally asks the important question: if this podcast were Miami Vice… who would be Crockett and who would be Tubbs?Along the way, the hosts also share their love for two wonderful spots in Ottawa, Ontario — The Scone Witch, known for their legendary scones, and Bar Cosenza, a cozy Italian café that feels like a hidden neighbourhood gem.Even though Amanda was feeling a little under the weather during this recording, the conversation turned into one of those warm, gentle episodes that The Insomnia Project does best — a calm and meandering chat about everyday things that might just help you relax, unwind, and drift toward sleep.You may find yourself nodding off somewhere between podcast gear talk, Broadway trivia, and a craving for a really good scone.If you enjoy relaxing conversations that wander through curious little topics, press play and spend a quiet moment with us. And if the episode helps you unwind or fall asleep, consider sharing The Insomnia Project with a friend who could use a little calm in their day.• Follow The Scone Witch – https://www.instagram.com/sconewitch/• Follow Bar Cosenza – https://www.instagram.com/barcosenza• Add Free episodes available on Supercast – https://theinsomniaproject.supercast.comFollow The Insomnia ProjectYouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@theinsomniaprojectWebsite – https://theinsomniaproject.comLeave a review and help other listeners discover the podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com
4. Sleep Podcast: Waiting Rooms & Quiet Moments | The Insomnia Project
25:51||Season 11, Ep. 4🌙 The Quiet World of Waiting RoomsLooking for a calm podcast to help you unwind, relax, and gently fall asleep? In this solo episode of The Insomnia Project, host Marco Timpano explores the quiet, often overlooked world of waiting rooms.From doctors’ offices and barbershops to airport gates and mechanics’ lounges, waiting rooms are small pauses in our day — spaces where time slows down and everyday life briefly holds still. In this softly spoken episode, Marco reflects on the curious details that make these places memorable: the hum of fluorescent lights, the stack of old magazines on the coffee table, the quiet anticipation shared with strangers, and the gentle rhythm of simply waiting.The conversation drifts through different kinds of waiting rooms — medical offices, hair salons, airports, and service shops — highlighting the calm, mundane details that often go unnoticed but can feel surprisingly soothing when we pause to observe them. From the quiet flipping of outdated magazines to the subtle background sounds of reception desks and hallway footsteps, Marco explores how these everyday spaces can create unexpected moments of stillness.As always, The Insomnia Project is designed to be just interesting enough to listen to, but relaxing enough to help quiet racing thoughts and ease you toward sleep. Whether you're dealing with insomnia, nighttime anxiety, or middle-of-the-night wake-ups, this gentle solo episode offers peaceful background listening and calm companionship in the quiet hours.If you drift off before the episode ends, we take that as the highest compliment.✨ You can now enjoy The Insomnia Project completely ad-free with a 10-day free trial at theinsomniaproject.supercast.com.Topics mentioned in this episode include the quiet rituals of waiting rooms, doctors’ office magazines and coffee tables, barbershop and salon waiting areas, airport gate lounges and travel pauses, mechanic and service shop waiting rooms, the surprising calm of everyday spaces, and why waiting can sometimes be one of the few moments where nothing is expected of us.The Insomnia Project is a weekly podcast featuring calm, mundane conversations designed to help listeners fall asleep, quiet racing thoughts, ease nighttime anxiety, and relax during late-night wake-ups. Hosted by Marco Timpano and Amanda Barker, the show embraces slow conversation, everyday observations, and the soothing power of ordinary moments.Follow along for updates and more calm conversation on Instagram @theinsomniaproject, Twitter/X @listenandsleep, and at theinsomniaproject.com.