Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson

About Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson

This is Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, where you’ll hear healthcare professionals and others sharing their stories of recalibrating life when the unexpected happened. I'm your host Sharee Johnson, psychologist coach, meditation teacher, author and mother. As a psychologist and coach I've been listening deeply to people’s stories in therapy and coaching for 35 years. I've come to believe two things about people. The first is, having witnessed so many incredible stories of hope, adaptability and human capacity, I truly believe that we are ALL capable of so much more than we think we are. In times of challenge humans have demonstrated that, over and over again. Here on the Recalibrating podcast you will get to hear amazing stories of healthcare professionals and others pivoting, overcoming, and recalibrating their lives. The second thing the research and my experiences as a psychologist have shown me, is that humans need other people, when we have support around us, when we tell each other our stories, when we connect through the reality of living our lives, we do much better than when we pull back and hide what’s really going on for us. On this podcast we are going to unearth and amplify what helps us as humans, individually and collectively to recalibrate in ways that help us change, grow, even surprise ourselves when life throws us a curve ball. We want to talk about the value of change in our lives. This podcast offers healthcare professionals the chance to be inspired and encouraged to meet the unexpected in their life with grace, skills and a belief in their own human capacity. Life is full of opportunities to recalibrate, with the right mindset, the right resources, the right community. Thank you for adding your voice to the conversation, for sharing your stories with us. Sharee Johnson

Publisher

Sharee Johnson

Category

education · health & fitness · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

27 Feb 2026

Latest episode

19 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

29 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   19 Oct 2026

   EPISODE 29: Dr. Johanne Egan — Thriving in the Emergency Department

   EPISODE DESCRIPTION: What if the key to thriving in healthcare isn't fixing what's broken, but noticing and building on what's already working? Dr Jo Egan works as an emergency physician and medical educator in Auckland, New Zealand. Her doctoral journey exploring what helps emergency department staff truly thrive was life changing for her. Together, Sharee and Jo unpack the power of Appreciative Inquiry as a lens for change, the critical difference between learning when we feel safe versus under threat, and the eight themes of thriving that emerged from Jo's research—all rooted in shared humanity. From the shift away from burnout literature toward positive psychology, to the radical idea of overtly creating safety for colleagues in clinical spaces, this is a conversation about optimism, agency, and the human connections that sustain us in healthcare. Such an uplifting conversation that includes portfolio careers, job-sharing as a young doctor, the value of professional supervision, and why the question "What gave you a boost of energy today?" might be the most powerful place to start. SHOW NOTES. " what is it that really matters to people in the emergency department, were all things about being human.” - Dr Jo Egan Key Takeaways: Safety Is the Foundation of Learning.(29:05). An Appreciative Lens Changes Everything is asking "What are we doing well here?"—is motivating, exciting, and hopeful, without ignoring what needs improving (33:30). Change Happens From the First Question: Appreciative Inquiry is based on the idea that change begins the moment you ask a question. And can invite an immediate shift, even in time-poor environments like the ED (38:00). Eight Themes of Thriving emerged, all were about Being Human (42:20). There is Agency in Career Design (21:30). Professional Supervision is Ongoing Education: Professional supervision provides reflective space to examine how our intentions land, recognize transference, and dig into underlying assumptions. It's proactive learning, not a sign something is wrong (06:40). Focus on What You Can Influence (Dr Jo Egan at 1:01:00). Practice Curiosity Over Judgment (1:14:20). Resources & Mentions Appreciative Inquiry (David Cooperrider): (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237404587_A_Positive_Revolution_in_Change_Appreciative_Inquiry) A practical application of positive psychology and philosophy, focused on looking for what brings life and energy to organisations. Used in the Recalibrate Doctor Care Program. Shawn Achor – TED Talk (https://www.ted.com/talks/shawn_achor_the_happy_secret_to_better_work) (https://www.ted.com/talks/shawn_achor_the_happy_secret_to_better_work)on happiness and positive psychology: The talk that inspired Jo to shift from burnout research to an appreciative lens. Viktor Frankl – Meaning and Humor (https://themeaningseeker.org/london-paris-tel-aviv-a-journey-of-humor/): Frankl's work on humor as a way to step out from chaos and gain broader perspective wove through Jo's research themes. Dacher Keltner – Research on Awe (https://ggsc.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/GGSC-JTF_White_Paper-Awe_FINAL.pdf): The science of how moments of awe—whether in nature or collective experience—broaden our thinking and connect new dots. Aristotle's Components of a Good Life: Referenced in Jo's reflection on the injustice of healthcare careers that theoretically fulfill these conditions yet still lead to harm. Liz Smythe – Academic Supervisor: Midwifery background; guided Jo through hermeneutic phenomenology and the paradigm shift from positivist to interpretive inquiry. Dr Brian Broom – Whole Person Healthcare: Supervisor and mentor in Jo's professional supervision journey. Manaaki Mana – Māori Health Strategy (Australasian College for Emergency Medicine) (https://acem.org.au/Content-Sources/Advancing-Emergency-Medicine/Cultural-safety/Hauora-Maori-Maori-Health/Te-Rautaki-Manaaki-Mana-Manaaki-Mana-Strategy): Values-based strategy guided by te reo Māori worldview, closely aligned with Jo's thriving themes. APLS (Advanced Paediatric Life Support): (https://advancedlifesupport.com.au/course/pals1-paediatric-advanced-life-support/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=21346544811&utm_content=&utm_term=&utm_device=c&utm_placement=&utm_creative=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21899597710&gbraid=0AAAAAqFD49c40YiAuVgrd5AVwNBA4ROJ0&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwIdy8r5EqJBKRunuXGdKTuygAZGabOnW9L6lQlQ2SayoGNKS6KGQW4YBoCcIMQAvD_BwE) The course that sparked Jo's entry into medical education. Heart of Medicine at Uluru (https://learn.coachingfordoctors.net.au/theheartofmedicine): Shared experience of awe, connection, and alternative ways of seeing what's possible in healthcare. Recalibrate Doctor Care Program (https://www.coachingfordoctors.net.au/programs/recalibrate-doctor-care/): Programs supporting physician recalibration and wellbeing, using Appreciative Inquiry in group settings. Quotes "It seemed unjust that a career that theoretically has almost all of Aristotle's components of a good life… that we shouldn't be thriving. That harm came to them in a career of caring for others." — Dr Jo Egan at 35:50 "In any given moment, we are making the best decision that we can with the resources and the information that we have in that context." — Dr Jo Egan at 1:14:20 Our theme music is "Caribbean" by Zambolino, sourced from FreeToUse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean. Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Always seek advice from your doctor or qualified healthcare professional. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily represent any entity they work with or for. Connect and Subscribe: Enjoyed this conversation? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share with colleagues or friends who may benefit from stories of recalibration and growth in healthcare. Stay tuned for future episodes with inspiring guests!

2. 

   28 Sept 2026

   EPISODE 29: Dr. Rhea Liang — Merit, Medicine, Neurodiversity and the Courage to change your mind.

   EPISODE 29: Dr. Rhea Liang — Merit, Medicine, and the Courage to Change Your Mind EPISODE DESCRIPTION: What if the metrics we use to select doctors have almost nothing to do with whether they'll be good at the job? In this episode Sharee sits down with Dr. Rhea Liang, general and breast surgeon, MD curriculum lead at Bond University, and one of the architects of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons' Operate With Respect program. Together they explore the myth of merit-based selection, the qualities that make someone truly effective in creating change how medical curriculum is shifting from knowledge transfer to skills and mindset, and why neurodiversity in medicine demands we rethink our assumptions. An open, honest conversation considering the commitment of the Operate With Respect program, sponsorship vs. mentorship, the importance of the patient voice, the need for Indigenous surgeons, and the small acts of kindness that sustain those who care for others. SHOW NOTES "keep working on it. Keep fostering those networks, finding your allies, developing the resources, 'cause when it happens, it can happen really, really fast." — Dr. Rhea Liang Key Takeaways: Merit-Based Selection Doesn't Predict Performance: (Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/1373]22:53). The people Rhea admires most — and the ones most effective in policy and committee work — are those who can change their minds (Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/1191]19:51). Neurodiversity Is an Asset, Not a Deficit. Applying a one-size-fits-all recipe to neurodiverse colleagues is a mistake (Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/570]09:30). Medical Curriculum Is Shifting from Knowledge to Skills: The focus is now on teaching students to navigate, critically assess, and reason from first principles — while maintaining a core of knowledge they must recall without Google or AI (Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/2796]46:36). Operate With Respect Has Changed the Nature of Bullying in Surgery: (Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/3327]55:27). Sponsorship, Not Just Mentorship: The literature shows we are over-mentored but under-sponsored.(Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/4200]70:00). Patient Voice Must Be Valued — and Paid:(Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/2360]39:20). Diversity in Surgery: New Zealand Is Leading the Way(Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/4590]76:30). System Change Requires Readiness and Preparation: You can't force system change, but you can be prepared when the moment comes. (Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/4060]67:40). If It Feels Hard, It Is Hard (Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/4710]78:30). Resources & Mentions Te Rau Poka (Māori Surgical Academy) (https://www.surgeons.org/about-racs/indigenous-health/maori-health/Te-Rau-Poka-Maori-Surgical-Academy): New Zealand organization supporting Māori doctors through surgical selection and training. Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS): Operate With Respect program (https://www.surgeons.org/Education/Professional-Development/Operating-with-Respect) — mandated training for all practicing surgeons in Australia and New Zealand. Bond University: Where Dr. Liang leads the MD curriculum. A Better Culture Curriculum: Commonwealth-funded project with consumer involvement at all levels. British Journal of Surgery: Dr. Liang serves on the editorial board. American College of Surgeons: International Relations Committee. Heart of Medicine Conference (https://learn.coachingfordoctors.net.au/theheartofmedicine): Annual gathering at Uluru; Dr. Liang presented with Dr. Cath Crock and Dr. Andrea Austin on bringing compassion into healthcare systems. The Thriving Doctor book (https://learn.coachingfordoctors.net.au/thriving-doctor) by Sharee Johnson Akeyulerre Aboriginal Corporation: Indigenous health organization that participated in the Heart of Medicine conference. Ben Bravery: (https://www.benbravery.com/book) Author who wrote about his experience as a cancer patient in medical training and the lack of attendance at patient experience sessions. Previous episode of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson (https://learn.coachingfordoctors.net.au/podcasts/recalibrating-with-sharee-johnson) (https://learn.coachingfordoctors.net.au/podcasts/recalibrating-with-sharee-johnson)with Sue Robins and Victoria Lister. Victoria Lister: Researcher on how professions develop and maintain their culture. Medical Deans (Australia & New Zealand) (https://medicaldeans.org.au/): Overarching body coordinating medical school policy across both countries. Australian Medical Council — CPD Homes: Continuing Professional Development framework. Surgeons as Leaders Course (RACS): Leadership training program revised by Dr. Liang. Roseanne Liang: Dr. Liang's sister, Hollywood director and Hugo Award winner. There are several Consumer Advocacy Organisations in Australia. Here are two we like        https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/your-health-service/partnering-consumers (https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/your-health-service/partnering-consumers)     https://www.chf.org.au/consumer-engagement/request-a-consumer-representative (https://www.chf.org.au/consumer-engagement/request-a-consumer-representative) For research about why mentorship is not enough- https://academic.oup.com/academicmedicine/article-abstract/94/1/94/8348127?redirectedFrom=fulltext (https://academic.oup.com/academicmedicine/article-abstract/94/1/94/8348127?redirectedFrom=fulltext) For an easy read about what career sponsorship 'looks' like- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1931720425000182 (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1931720425000182) Quotes "The people I admire most, and the people that have been most effective in this space, are the ones who have been able to change their minds." — Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/1205]20:05 "All the literature suggests that we are over-mentored but under-sponsored." — Dr. Rhea Liang at [/timestamps/4200]70:00 Our theme music is "Caribbean" by Zambolino, sourced from FreeToUse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean (https://freetouse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean). Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Always seek advice from your doctor or qualified healthcare professional. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily represent any entity they work with or for. Connect and Subscribe: Enjoyed this conversation? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share with colleagues or friends who may benefit from stories of recalibration and growth in healthcare. Stay tuned for future episodes with inspiring guests!

3. 

   22 Sept 2026

   Episode 28: Dr Eric Levi – The human side of working as a surgeon

   This bite size episode is one of the most listened to sections of Ep13 with Dr Eric Levi. You can find the full episode and access all the shownotes here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgZd3jRvk2g&list=PLXdT2KO4b-qgYjBFDz6EceGoHVcEgsA-y&index=15 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgZd3jRvk2g&list=PLXdT2KO4b-qgYjBFDz6EceGoHVcEgsA-y&index=15)

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