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In this episode of A Healthy Shift, I’m breaking down a common myth that’s keeping shift workers exhausted and frustrated: the idea that long sleep-ins on your days off help you recover.

Spoiler alert — they don’t.

In fact, sleeping in too late disrupts your circadian rhythm, delays your exposure to natural light, and creates something called social jet lag. If you’ve ever felt more tired after your days off than during your shifts, this episode is for you.

What I Cover in This Episode:

• Why sleeping in on your days off confuses your internal body clock
• What your circadian rhythm is really expecting from you
• How “social jet lag” impacts your energy, mood, and sleep quality
• The myth of sleep debt — and why you can’t just “catch up” on rest
• The power of proactive sleep strategies:
  • Wake up at a consistent time (yes, even on days off)
  • Get morning sunlight as early as possible
  • Use short 20–30 minute naps to stay alert without disrupting your next sleep cycle
• My go-to rule: The “Would You Set an Alarm?” Test — to decide if a late-night activity is worth the next-day fatigue

Ready to Take Control of Your Sleep?

If you're serious about fixing your sleep, boosting your energy, and finally feeling human again on shift work, I can help. Visit ahealthyshift.com or click the link in the show notes to learn more about 1:1 coaching.

Help Other Shift Workers Find This Show:

If this episode helped you, please leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. It makes a huge difference and helps spread evidence-based strategies to shift workers who really need them.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

_______________________

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I'm back on Australia Overnight after a bit of a break — and this time, we’re diving deep into some uncomfortable truths about what’s really happening on our streets and inside our justice system.

As a former frontline police officer and now health coach for shift workers, I’ve seen firsthand how things have changed — and not for the better. In this episode, I share some real talk about the rise in crime, the frustration felt by officers, and why our current legal system is letting everyone down.

Here's What I Talked About:

• How changing immigration patterns might be influencing crime rates
• Why police are feeling powerless and unsupported when it comes to repeat offenders
• The limitations facing magistrates and judges, and how the laws are failing them too
• Why I believe youth crime is tied to a lack of self-respect and fear of consequences
• What we could learn from the Singapore model and its zero-tolerance approach
• Whether democracy is actually capable of delivering the legal reforms we desperately need
• And as always — I threw in a winter wellbeing tip: Why most of us need vitamin D supplements this time of year

Why Listen:

If you care about the future of policing, community safety, youth behaviour, or just want to understand the challenges frontline workers are facing — this one’s for you.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

_______________________

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In this episode, I share my top 10 must-read books that have reshaped how I approach health, habits, sleep, and shift work. With nearly 40 years in law enforcement and coaching others through 24/7 schedules, I’ve seen what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to thriving as a shift worker.

These books offer evidence-based, practical insights that can truly improve your energy, sleep, mindset, and overall wellbeing.

My Recommended Reads:

• Atomic Habits – Build better systems for lasting habits
• Lifespan – Understand your internal body clock
• The Light Doctor – How lighting affects sleep and hunger
• Breath – The power of proper breathing
• The Inner Clock – Circadian rhythms and mental health
• Sleep Groove – A visual guide to better sleep
• The Resilience Project – Gratitude, empathy, mindfulness
• Let Go – Releasing control to improve mental health
• Is Butter a Carb? – Nutrition without diet culture
• Everything Fat Loss – Honest advice on weight management

If you're navigating night shifts or long hours, these reads can make a real difference.

Enjoyed the episode?
 Share it, leave a review, and follow the show so you never miss what’s next.

There’s no perfect shift—but we can make it a healthier one, together.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

_______________________

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Shift work disrupts our natural circadian rhythms, but with the right strategies, we can protect our health and energy while finding better work-life balance. I share eight practical tips to help shift workers not just survive but thrive, based on almost four decades of experience.

• Set a consistent sleep schedule with regular wake-up times, even on days off
• Create a bedroom environment that's dark, quiet, and cool (15-20°C) using blackout curtains or sleep masks
• Avoid caffeine after midnight on night shifts or after midday at other times
• Remember alcohol and nicotine negatively impact sleep quality despite feeling relaxing
• Exercise regularly but avoid vigorous activity within 3-4 hours of bedtime
• Make deliberate efforts to stay connected with friends and family outside your workplace
• Master the 20-30 minute power nap without falling into deep sleep
• Use natural light exposure strategically and consider blue light blocking glasses
• Establish relationships with healthcare providers before you're struggling

Don't forget to share this episode with your workmates or anyone navigating shift work. For more resources, visit ahealthyshift.com where you can also join the Shift Workers Collective, our subscription-based community where we support each other 24-7.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

_______________________

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Shift workers can absolutely lose weight despite the challenges of irregular schedules. I explains the science behind why night workers gain weight and offers a practical approach to sustainable fat loss that works with your body's natural rhythms.

• Understanding why shift work makes weight management difficult
• Research shows shift workers don't eat more than day workers yet still gain body fat
• Why typical diets fail shift workers and cause fatigue and cravings
• How your metabolism naturally slows at night regardless of your work schedule
• The power of chrononutrition - when you eat matters more than what you eat
• Eating your main meal before night shift rather than during it
• Five practical steps: prioritise sleep, eat mindfully before shifts, stay hydrated, plan snacks, move your body
• Avoiding common pitfalls like meal skipping and relying on zero-calorie energy drinks
• Focus on consistency over perfection with small, sustainable changes

For personalised help with your shift work health journey, visit ahealthyshift.com and book a free 15-minute coaching assessment call with Roger.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

_______________________

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If you’ve ever felt bloated, gassy, or just off in the gut after a night shift — you’re not alone. In this episode, I unpack exactly why shift work messes with your digestion, and what you can actually do about it.

Forget blaming food intolerances — the root issue is often your disrupted circadian rhythm, not the food itself. I break down how your internal body clock affects digestion and share simple, evidence-backed habits to get your gut back on track (without resorting to expensive supplements or guesswork).

Whether you’re battling gut discomfort, irregularity, or just feel like your digestion is out of sync — this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why your digestive issues may not be food-related at all
• How every cell in your body, including your gut, runs on an internal clock
• What happens to digestion during your biological night (9 PM–6 AM)
• Why eating at regular times (yes, even on shifts) helps your body work better
• The gut-damaging combo of stress, dehydration, and irregular eating
• Smart strategies: low-GI eating, movement during shifts, and hydration tips
• When (and if) supplements like probiotics are worth trying

Let’s Stay Connected:

If this episode helped you, please share it with a fellow shift worker, nurse, or emergency responder who might be struggling too.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

_______________________

Text me what you thought of the show 😊

In this episode, I open up about something many shift workers experience but few talk about openly: the dangerous coping mechanisms we turn to when the pressure gets too much. Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, pornography, or gambling — what starts as an escape can quickly spiral into something far more damaging.

As a former shift worker myself and a coach to thousands of others, I want to share what I’ve learned — not from judgment, but from real experience.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

✅ How disrupted sleep patterns and hormonal chaos fuel poor mental health
 ✅ The link between isolation, chronic fatigue, and impulsive habits
 ✅ Why substances and distractions feel helpful — but make it worse
 ✅ What recovery really looks like (hint: it’s not about going cold turkey overnight)
 ✅ How to spot early warning signs in yourself or a colleague
 ✅ The power of one small daily habit — like a morning walk
 ✅ How talking to a trusted GP or friend can change everything
 ✅ Practical tools to start choosing better — and feeling better

If you’ve ever thought “I’m not myself lately”, this episode is for you.
And if it feels like too much to fix on your own — good news: you don’t have to.

👉 Take one small step today.

 Visit ahealthyshift.com or come join us in the Shift Workers Collective — a safe space to talk, learn, and grow. You’re not broken. You’re not alone. And change is possible.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

_______________________

Text me what you thought of the show 😊

If you're a shift worker struggling to get good-quality sleep—especially during daylight hours—this episode is for you. Today, I'm talking about one of the simplest yet most overlooked tools that can drastically improve your rest: the sleep mask.

Most people underestimate just how damaging light can be to sleep. Even tiny amounts of light from devices, early morning sun, or power boards can suppress melatonin by up to 50%. That’s enough to prevent your body from dropping into deep, restorative sleep—and for shift workers, that’s a big deal.

Here’s what I cover in this episode:

• How light disrupts your circadian rhythm and causes shallow, fragmented sleep
• A quick test to see if your bedroom is too bright for optimal sleep
• What to look for in a high-quality sleep mask (it’s not just about blocking light)
• Why using a sleep mask every single time you rest can actually train your brain to wind down faster
• And why, if you’re trying to sleep during the day, a sleep mask isn’t optional—it’s essential

If you’re looking for a reliable sleep mask that’s comfortable, light-blocking, and great for side sleepers, I personally recommend the Manta Sleep Mask Pro. You can find it on the Recommended Products page in the resources section at ahealthyshift.com.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

_______________________

Text me what you thought of the show 😊

In this episode, I open up about a side of shift work we don’t talk about enough: the loneliness. Even when we’re surrounded by colleagues, shift work can create a deep sense of emotional isolation that creeps in slowly and quietly. Over time, it can affect everything from our sleep and decision-making to our eating habits and overall wellbeing.

Here’s what I share in this episode:

• How shift work pulls us out of sync with everyday life—missing weekends, holidays, and family time
• Why our biological need for connection often clashes with shift work schedules
• The truth about loneliness: it’s not just an emotion—it has real health consequences
• How small “micro-connections” like a quick message or a coffee catch-up can keep relationships alive
• The importance of finding a connection with others who understand the shift work lifestyle
• Why scheduling social time—just like an appointment—can actually protect your wellbeing
• How being honest with loved ones about your disconnection helps them support you
• Simple ways to blend social time with self-care, like walking with a friend
• When to seek professional help if loneliness starts to feel overwhelming

If any of this resonated with you, I’d love it if you shared the episode with fellow shift workers who might be going through the same thing.

And if you haven’t already, follow the podcast and leave a rating—it really helps others find this content. On Spotify, just head to the main show page; on Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom to rate and review.

You’re not alone, and you don’t have to go through shift work feeling that way.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

_______________________

Text me what you thought of the show 😊

Shift Work Doesn’t Have to Wreck Your Health – Here’s How to Thrive

In this episode, I talk about why shift work doesn't have to come at the cost of your health and wellbeing—and why it’s time organisations stop treating shift workers like machines.

I'm Roger Sutherland, and I’ve made it my mission to educate shift workers on how to take control of their health using simple, evidence-based strategies. Through my seminars and coaching, I help workers not just survive their rosters—but actually thrive.

Here’s what I share in this conversation:

• Why most organisations place people into 24/7 rosters without offering any real education on how to manage their health
• How employers focus on KPIs and operational targets, while overlooking their most valuable asset—their people
• What I teach in my seminars, including circadian rhythm alignment, fatigue management, and the five pillars of shift work health
• The specific hormonal challenges female shift workers face, and how to support them properly
• How companies that invest in shift work education are seeing reduced sick leave, improved retention, and fewer incidents
• Why simple and realistic movement strategies are more effective than complicated gym routines for shift workers
• The real-world impact these strategies are having in places like Queensland Police and major pharmaceutical companies

If you’re a shift worker—or responsible for the wellbeing of one—this episode will show you what’s possible when the right education is in place.

👉 Get your free seminar info pack at ahealthyshift.com, or reach out to me on LinkedIn or Instagram @a_healthy_shift.

Shift work doesn’t have to destroy your health—not when you know what to do.

Support the show

----------------------------

Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

___________________

Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

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