In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, I sit down with my friend, Dr. Allison Brager, a neurobiologist, researcher, and active-duty U.S. Army neuroscientist whose work redefines what we know about sleep and human performance. Allison’s expertise goes beyond the usual advice about getting eight hours of sleep. Instead, we explore how to optimize performance and resilience when life doesn’t allow for a perfect sleep routine—something we can all relate to.

Allison shares fascinating insights from her work with military special operations, studying how sleep deprivation impacts cognitive and physical performance in high-stakes environments. We discuss the genetic factors that influence sleep tolerance, the science of tactical napping, and practical strategies to help shift workers, parents, and frequent travelers stay functional despite disrupted schedules. From groundbreaking studies on circadian biology to the effective application of tools like caffeine, Allison’s expertise is both eye-opening and actionable.

This episode is packed with cutting-edge science and real-world solutions for anyone navigating the challenges of sleep and performance in an imperfect world. Join us for a conversation that will change how you think about sleep and resilience.

Key Topics:

• Sleep strategies for extreme conditions and busy lives
• Tactical napping and caffeine dosing for performance
• The link between muscle, circadian rhythms, and sleep recovery
• Tools to optimize sleep, even in a non-ideal world

Who is Dr. Allison Brager?

Dr. Allison Brager is a neurobiologist, researcher, and active-duty U.S. Army neuroscientist with a PhD in neuroscience from Kent State University. Her work focuses on the intersection of sleep, resilience, and performance in extreme conditions, including her extensive collaboration with Army Special Operations to optimize warfighter health. As a NASA astronaut candidate, she brings a unique perspective on functioning in imperfect conditions, offering invaluable insights for shift workers, parents, athletes, and professionals aiming to thrive despite life’s challenges.

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Find Dr. Allison Brager at:

- Instagram: @docjockzzz

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-brager-80a58210/

- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research: https://walterreedarmyresearch.academia.edu/AllisonBrager

Find me at:

- Instagram: @drgabriellelyon

-Tik Tok: @drgabriellelyon

-Facebook: facebook.com/doctorgabriellelyon

-YouTube: youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon

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Disclaimer: The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Podcast and YouTube are for general information purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast, YouTube, or materials linked from this podcast or YouTube is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professional for any such conditions.