The Hidden Cost of Lost Sleep: How Exhaustion Impacts Work, Money, and Decision-Making
Becoming a parent is one of life’s most exciting milestones. But it also brings challenges, especially with sleep. In this episode of Tips for Change, host Tiffany Mutchler talks with Suzanne “Susie” Warwick. Susie is the founder and CEO of Tender Sleep Company. They discuss how sleep, or lack of it, affects your health, relationships, and finances.
Sleep Struggles Are More Common Than You Think
Susie started her journey in pediatric sleep consulting as a mother facing the challenges of newborn sleep firsthand. With three children of her own, she knows how tiring parenting can be. She also knows how frustrating it is when you can’t help your baby sleep.
“Sleep deprivation is more than just being tired. It impacts relationships, emotional balance, and physical health,” Susie explains. “When parents don’t sleep, it affects every part of life, including work and finances.”
Healthy sleep habits are more important than you may realize. Many parents don’t realize how common sleep struggles are, especially in the first months. Even small improvements can have a big impact on daily life.
Why New Parents and Working Professionals Are Especially Vulnerable
Newborns naturally sleep in short stretches of 30–60 minutes, so parents rarely get uninterrupted rest. Returning to work within a few weeks after birth adds extra pressure. The result can be:
Emotional overwhelm and short tempers
Trouble concentrating and making decisions
Impulsive spending or avoiding budgeting
Strain on relationships with partners and older children
“Parents often buy sleep products without knowing that the right strategies work better than the products,” Susie says.
The Financial Impact of Sleep Deprivation
Poor sleep can take a toll on a family’s finances. New parents often try multiple sleep aids, meal deliveries, or other “quick fixes” that may not solve the problem.
On top of that, sleep deprivation can hurt productivity at work. It can make it harder to focus, perform well, and stay confident. Over time, this can affect income stability and career growth. That is why an early sleep schedule and bedtime routine is key to a productive work day.
Structured Sleep Support Can Make a Difference
Tender Sleep Company provides virtual sleep consulting for families, including parents of children with special needs. Personalized guidance often brings improvements in as little as two weeks.
“Even a short period of structured sleep support can help parents return to work feeling confident, alert, and ready to manage both home and work life,” Susie explains.
Simple Ways to Improve Sleep
Susie shares practical tips that don’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul:
Prioritize daytime naps for infants. Proper daytime sleep helps improve nighttime rest.
Shift bedtime gradually as babies grow. Adjusting bedtime prevents late-night struggles and helps the whole family sleep better.
Know your limits. If sleep struggles are causing stress, emotional strain, or health issues, consider structured sleep support.
“Sleep struggles don’t have to last. Small, intentional changes can make a big difference in just a few weeks,” Susie emphasizes.
Learn More
Families who want support can book a free sleep assessment call with Tender Sleep Company. Visit Tender Sleep Co’s website or email Susie directly at suzanne@tendersleepco.com.
Better sleep leads to better health, relationships, and financial decisions. Even small improvements in sleep can have a big impact on your daily life and long-term well-being.
Episode Mentions:
About the Guest
Suzanne “Susie” Warwick is the founder and CEO of Tender Sleep Company, a Sioux Falls-based pediatric sleep consulting practice. A mother of three, Susie is a certified sleep consultant specializing in newborns, infants, and children with special needs. She helps families improve sleep, reduce stress, and create healthy routines that benefit both parents and children. Through virtual one-on-one and group consultations, Susie empowers parents with practical strategies to improve sleep, health, and overall family well-being.
