Is chronic sleep loss just part of “the grind”—or is it a crisis hiding in plain sight? Join Dr. Alison Kole as she sits down with neuroscientist and wellness expert Dr. Rebecca Acabchuk, plus veteran firefighter Alan  Pinsonneault   of the Holyoke Fire Department, for an eye-opening, actionable episode of “Sleep Is My Waking Passion” .

Discover:

• What sleep deprivation really looks like for frontline heroes and high-stress professionals, plus why it could be an invisible epidemic across America .
• “Tactical athletes” explained: how firefighters, police, medics, and military professionals manage sleep loss, and what civilians can learn from their battle-tested routines .
• Science-backed tips for recognizing and responding to serious fatigue—including why “listening to your body” and support from seasoned colleagues can literally save lives .
• Dr. Acabchuk’s practical, everyday hacks: mastering naps, the “sigh of relief” mindfulness practice, trigger points for self-check-ins, and how to set up safe, sleep-friendly spaces—even at work or on the road .
• Firefighter Alan’s in-the-trenches tricks: quick resets, portable sleep routines, and the importance of exercise and decompression for stamina and recovery .
• Research behind yoga nidra, NSDR (non-sleep deep rest), and progressive muscle relaxation—plus simple cues to cultivate safety and presence, for everyone from first responders to overstressed parents .
• The “WIN” mantra: What’s Important Now—an essential mental tool for resetting in moments of nighttime anxiety and racing thoughts .

Whether working 24-hour shifts, wrangling toddlers through sleepless nights, or just looking for no-nonsense ways to refill the tank, this episode is packed with candid stories, expert tips, and next-step strategies that anyone can use .

Want more?

• Learn about holistic workplace resilience at O2X, Dr. Acabchuk’s human performance company.
• Reach out to Becky and Alan for questions or mindfulness resources—links and contacts in the show notes.

Share this episode, subscribe for more expert-led sleep strategies, and join a fast-growing community reshaping what healthy, high-performance living really means—one better night’s sleep at a time .