Sleep is Our Superpower

In this 46th episode of Bald Ambition, host Mookie Spitz sits down with Roger Washington, MD, and Scarlet Nickhol, MPP of the Sleep To Live Well Foundation (STLW), to uncover why sleep isn’t just rest—it’s the vital work of human health and resilience.

From the science of how insufficient sleep corrodes immune systems and accelerates disease, to the cultural myths that glamorize sleepless productivity, this conversation dives deep into the epidemic of sleep deprivation. Dr. Washington shares his pioneering insights on “Sleep Wellness,” a holistic framework that goes beyond sleep hygiene to address trauma, resistant behaviors, and the immune toll of lost hours. Scarlet Nickhol explains how STLW is intervening early—through children’s books, family guides, and clinical screening tools—to help families build nurturing bedtime rituals and reframe sleep as a source of power, safety, and healing.

The discussion doesn’t stay abstract. From Bill Clinton’s four-hour nights to the “super sleeper” habits of children, Mookie and his guests explore real-world examples that reveal both the perils of neglecting sleep and the life-changing potential of embracing it. If you’ve ever stayed up late scrolling, struggled with insomnia, or noticed your kids become hyper instead of tired when they miss bedtime, this episode will change how you see sleep—and why it might be the best act of self-care and public health reform.

The Guests

Dr. Roger Washington, MD, FAAFP, STLW Medical Director
A Stanford-trained physician, Dr. Washington has over 35 years of experience in integrative family medicine. He is the author of Lack of Sufficient Sleep Matters and the pioneer of Sleep Wellness, which combines cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and holistic practices to combat the epidemic of insufficient sleep.

 Scarlet Nickhol, MPP, MBA, STLW Executive Director
Co-author of Doctor Bedtime’s Sleep Magic: SuperPowers for Super-Sleepers, Embracing Sleep Wellness: A Family Guide to Transforming Bedtime Resistance into a Nurturing Ritual, and Sleep Wellness Screening Protocol and Digest.

 The Organization

Sleep To Live Well is a 501(c)(3) private operating foundation transforming public health through Sleep Wellness by addressing the resistant behaviors, trauma, and toxic stress that disrupt natural sleep.

The Resources

Children's book - https://www.sleeptolivewell.org/for-children

Dr. Washington bio online - https://www.sleeptolivewell.org/meet-dr-washington

About STLW -