Shift Happens

About Shift Happens

When your work involves high stakes, long shifts, and constant care for others, your own wellbeing matters more than ever. Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health team at NSW Ambulance and hosted by paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham. Shift Happens is dedicated to supporting emergency service staff through expert guidance, practical tools, and real stories from the frontline. Each episode creates space for learning, sharing, and meaningful reflection—helping you make positive changes that last, one episode at a time.

Publisher

NSW Ambulance

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

16 Jan 2026

Latest episode

1 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   1 Oct 2026

   Suicide, Recovery & Hope with Stewart Clarke

   In this episode of Shift Happens, Stewart Clarke Acting Director of Clinical Operations shares his lived experience of suicide, the signs that things weren’t as they seemed, and what helped him move toward recovery. It’s a powerful conversation about noticing, reaching out, hope and the difference connection can make. Learn more: Suicide Prevention Australia (https://www.suicidepreventionaust.org/) Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) Beyond Blue - Suicide Prevention (https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/suicide-prevention) We’d love to hear from you Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au (mailto: AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au) Support is always available If this episode has raised anything for you: NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home or contact us at the email address above. Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance. Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge. With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley. Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham. Sound Engineering by East Coast Studio. We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

2. 

   24 Sept 2026

   Is it Burnout… or Perimenopause? with Dr Jemima Grant

   Dr Jemima Grant shares her own perimenopause journey alongside practical insights into symptoms, work impacts, strength and nutrition, and HRT. This episode isn’t just for women - there’s plenty for partners, colleagues and managers wanting to better understand and support the women around them. Learn more: The Hormone Cure - Dr Sarah Gottfried (https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Hormone-Cure/Sara-Gottfried/9781451666953) Perimenopause and menopause checklist (https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Perimenopause-and-menopause-symptom-checklist_TGD.pdf) Information on Perimenopause (https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/perimenopause) We’d love to hear from you Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au (mailto: AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au) Support is always available If this episode has raised anything for you: NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home or contact us at the email address above. Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance. Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge. With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley. Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham. Sound Engineering by East Coast Studio. We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

3. 

   30 Jul 2026

   Look After Yourself to Lead Well with Joe Ibrahim

   What does good support from a manager really look like, especially when a team member is doing it tough? In the latest episode of Shift Happens, Joe Ibrahim shares practical insights about the important role managers play in supporting staff wellbeing, building trust and creating a workplace where people feel safe to speak up. Jo also offers practical tips on how leaders can look after their own wellbeing, reminding us that staying well ourselves is key to showing up effectively for others. Tune in for a thoughtful and practical conversation about leadership, connection and the small actions that can make a meaningful difference. Learn more: (https://books.apple.com/au/book/finding-the-silver-lining/id1167877584)Boundaries (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/boundaries?msockid=1cf64099d27c6d0e07e457ffd30a6cd8) Stop making work your identity (https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/your-awesome-career/202302/stop-making-work-your-identity?msockid=1cf64099d27c6d0e07e457ffd30a6cd8) Radical Candor - How to have a conversation with someone who is struggling (https://www.radicalcandor.com/) We’d love to hear from you Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au (mailto: AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au) Support is always available If this episode has raised anything for you: NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home or contact us at the email address above. Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance. Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge. With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley. Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham. Sound Engineering by East Coast Studio. We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

4. 

   18 Jun 2026

   What If Trauma Wasn't the End of the Story? With Todd Wehr

   What if some of life's hardest experiences could become catalysts for growth? In this episode of Shift Happens, Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) Director of Strategic Wellbeing (paramedic and psychotherapist0, Todd Wehr, explores the science of Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG), the positive psychological changes that can emerge after adversity. Through practical insights and real-world examples, Todd shares how challenges can reshape our perspective, strengthen relationships, deepen appreciation for life, and help us discover new possibilities. The five domains of Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) identified by psychologists Richard Tedeschi and Lawrence Calhoun are: Greater appreciation of life – A deeper gratitude for being alive and a focus on what truly matters. Stronger relationships – Increased closeness, compassion, and connection with others. Personal strength – Recognising "I am stronger than I thought I was." New possibilities – Discovering new paths, opportunities, or directions in life. Spiritual or existential growth – A deeper sense of meaning, purpose, or understanding of life's big questions. Whether you've faced a personal setback, workplace challenge, or major life change, this conversation offers hope, perspective, and evidence-based strategies for navigating difficult times and finding growth on the other side. Learn more: QAS e-book - Finding the Silver Lining (https://books.apple.com/au/book/finding-the-silver-lining/id1167877584) Book - Post Traumatic Growth (https://books.google.com.au/books?id=EtFfDwAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false) Post Traumatic Growth guidebook (https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-post-traumatic-growth-guidebook-arielle-schwartz/book/9781683732679.html?source=pla&msclkid=a965ce40f8ef19511d7aa4712608967e&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Duke%20%7C%20PMax%20%7C%20B%2BNB%20%7C%20Academic&utm_term=2333850869796377&utm_content=Academic%20Books) We’d love to hear from you Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au (mailto: AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au) Support is always available If this episode has raised anything for you: NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home or contact us at the email address above. Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance. Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge. With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley. Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham. Sound Engineering by East Coast Studio. We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

5. 

   21 May 2026

   The Comeback Story: PTSD, ADHD & Hope with Nick and Chloe

   Nick and Chloe share their raw and deeply personal journey through trauma, PTSD, and ADHD and the hope that can exist on the other side. In this honest conversation, they open up about the impact trauma had on their lives, relationships, and mental health, what helped them through the darkest times, and why life really can get better. A powerful episode about struggle, recovery, love, and hope. Learn more: Understanding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/) Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/attention-deficit-disorder-add-or-adhd) Brain injury rehabilitation resources for clients and families (https://aci.health.nsw.gov.au/networks/brain-injury-rehabilitation/resources/for-clients-and-families) We’d love to hear from you Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au (mailto: AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au) Support is always available If this episode has raised anything for you: NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home or contact us at the email address above. Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance. Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge. With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley. Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham. Technical production by East Coast Studio. We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

6. 

   23 Apr 2026

   Can You Do This Job for 25+ Years? Longevity with Christian Mortensen

   When it comes to longevity in emergency services, it’s not just about getting through the job, it’s about staying well for the long haul. In this episode, Christian shares practical insights on building a sustainable career, from developing an identity beyond the uniform to managing stress and knowing when to reach out for support. He also reflects on what helps people stay and thrive in the profession over time. If you want to keep showing up well, both on and off the road, this one’s for you. Learn more: The science of longevity - The Telomere Effect (https://www.elissaepel.com/telomere-effect) Having a hobby outside work and wellbeing (https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/having-a-hobby-tied-to-happiness-and-well-being) We’d love to hear from you Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au (mailto: AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au) Support is always available If this episode has raised anything for you: NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home. This includes the Injury Prevention Specialists/Exercise Physiologists for your individual movement needs or to join our perinatal support group. Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance. Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge. With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley. Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham. Technical production by East Coast Studio. We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

7. 

   26 Mar 2026

   Move your mind: How exercise supports mental health with Steph Gill

   What if one of the most powerful tools for your mental health wasn’t another app, strategy, or course… but something as simple as moving your body? In this episode, we sit down with Steph Gill our very own Injury Prevention Specialist to explore the science behind how exercise supports mental health, especially in high-pressure roles like emergency services. We unpack why movement isn’t just about physical fitness, but a critical foundation for emotional wellbeing, stress regulation, and long-term resilience in the job. In this episode, we explore: Why the mind–body split matters for mental health How exercise changes your brain and boosts mood The role of movement in conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and schizophrenia Practical ways to stay active in a busy, shift-based life Using exercise to support, manage, and protect your mental health Takeaway You don’t need to overhaul your life to improve your mental health. Sometimes, the most powerful shift is simply this: move your body, regularly, in a way that works for you. Learn more: Exercise can treat and prevent depression and anxiety (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-02-14/mental-health-exercise-treat-prevent-depression-anxiety/103431858) Improving your mental health through exercise (https://www.eml.com.au/resources/improving-your-mental-health-through-exercise/) We’d love to hear from you Have feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team atAMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au (mailto:atAMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au) Support is always available If this episode has raised anything for you: NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home. This includes the Injury Prevention Specialists/Exercise Physiologists for your individual movement needs or to join our perinatal support group. Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance.Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge. With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley.Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham.Technical production by East Coast Studio. We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

8. 

   26 Feb 2026

   High Performance Mindset with Jo Brigden-Jones

   What can paramedics, in fact anyone who wants to be a high performer, learn from elite sport? Olympian Jo Brigden Jones shares how high-performance principles translate directly to frontline work. We explore mental conditioning, managing setbacks, staying focused under pressure, and building sustainable performance across a career. Jo discusses practical strategies for managing fatigue, navigating emotional setbacks, and protecting wellbeing, simple tools for night shift and an indulgent cookie recipe (https://simplyhomecooked.com/wprm_print/chewy-chocolate-chip-cookies)for treat occasions. She also shares her top three non-negotiables for staying mentally strong and physically capable in high-pressure environments. Learn more: The Resilience Project (https://theresilienceproject.com.au/about/) The imperfects podcast (https://theresilienceproject.com.au/the-imperfects-podcast/) The Female Athlete project (https://thefemaleathleteproject.com/) Growth Mindset (Mindset theory) (https://www.porchlightbooks.com/products/mindset-carol-s-dweck-9780345472328) (https://www.porchlightbooks.com/products/mindset-carol-s-dweck-9780345472328) (https://www.porchlightbooks.com/products/mindset-carol-s-dweck-9780345472328) (https://www.porchlightbooks.com/products/mindset-carol-s-dweck-9780345472328)We’d love to hear from you Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au (mailto:AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au) Support is always available If this episode has raised anything for you: NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home (https://nswhealth.sharepoint.com/sites/AMBULANCE-STAFFHEALTHWELLBEINGRESOURCES) Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance. Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley. Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham. Technical production by East Coast Studio. We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

9. 

   29 Jan 2026

   How to Be Less Self-Critical - featuring Critical Care Paramedic Dave Ipsen

   Self-criticism is common in emergency services, particularly among people who care deeply and hold themselves to high standards. In this first episode of Shift Happens, we’re joined by Critical Care Paramedic Dave Ipsen for an open and grounded conversation about self-criticism: where it comes from, how it shows up on shift and at home, and why being hard on yourself doesn’t actually lead to better performance. Together, we explore practical ways to recognise self-critical thinking, respond with greater self-compassion, and develop a more supportive inner voice, without lowering standards or losing what makes you good at your job. This episode is for anyone who’s replayed a job, doubted themselves, or felt the pressure to always be better. Learn more: Self-Compassion - Information, community, learning (https://self-compassion.org/) Research on self-compassion and how it protects the mental health of first responders (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33204359/) Research on how mindfulness and self-compassion could potentially decrease functional disability in returning veterans with PTSD symptoms. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26426991/) We’d love to hear from you Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au (mailto:AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au) Support is always available If this episode has raised anything for you: NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home (https://nswhealth.sharepoint.com/sites/AMBULANCE-STAFFHEALTHWELLBEINGRESOURCES) Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline (https://www.lifeline.org.au/) Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance. Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley. Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham. Technical production by East Coast Studio. We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

10. 

    16 Jan 2026

    Welcome to Shift Happens

    Meet the voices behind the podcast and get a feel for what’s ahead: expert insights, practical tools, and real conversations shaped by the realities of shift work, high-pressure environments, and caring for others. Whether you’re on the road, behind the screens, or supporting those who are, Shift Happens is about learning, sharing, and making positive change — one episode at a time. Welcome to Shift Happens — a podcast dedicated to wellbeing in emergency services. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.

Contact Shift Happens

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.