In this candid conversation, Brock and Jess dive into the rewarding yet challenging world of academia within occupational therapy. They discuss the genuine highs, the unexpected lows, and share personal insights about navigating life as educators, researchers, and clinicians. Expect reflections on balance, burnout, triumphs, and the ongoing journey of growth in academia.

Tune in for honest perspectives, helpful takeaways, and a relatable chat for anyone connected to or curious about the academic side of occupational therapy.

Host: Dr Jessica Levick & Brock Cook

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In Episode 174 of Occupied, host Dr Jessica Levick speaks with Martin Staines, an Advanced Occupational Therapist with a deep commitment to recovery-oriented practice in mental health.

Martin shares reflections from his extensive clinical experience, exploring how occupational therapists can work authentically alongside people experiencing mental health challenges. The conversation dives into what recovery-oriented practice truly looks like in action—from fostering hope and autonomy to navigating risk, documentation, and systemic constraints.

Jessica and Martin discuss the tensions clinicians face between policy-driven models of care and person-centred, values-based practice. They unpack the importance of relationships, everyday occupations, and creating space for meaning-making in mental health recovery.

This episode is a rich and grounded exploration of how occupational therapists can challenge the status quo, advocate for human rights, and honour the lived experiences of those they support.

Whether you’re working in mental health or passionate about recovery-oriented care, this episode offers wisdom, inspiration, and practical strategies from the frontline.

Host: Dr Jessica Levick

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In this episode of Occupied, I sit down with Michelle Oliver, Australia’s first-ever Chief Occupational Therapist, for an inspiring and insightful conversation about her journey, her vision for the profession, and the evolving landscape of occupational therapy in Australia.

We dive into:

Whether you’re a student, clinician, or leader in health, this episode will leave you reflecting on how we care—for others and ourselves—in complex systems.

Host: Brock Cook

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BONUS!!!

If you are considering going to the 31st NATIONAL CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 2025 in Adelaide next month than let me save you some $$$. OTA have kindly provided a link especially for listeners of the pod! Register for the conference using this link and save yourself up to $265 on your registration PLUS go into the draw to win two tickets to the conference Gala Dinner!

Register here: https://www.otausevents.com.au/otaus2025/friendsofthepodcast-occupied

In Episode 172 of Occupied, co-host Dr Jessica Levick speaks with consultant psychiatrist Dr Theo Theodoros to explore the realities of working in challenging, complex and high-pressure healthcare environments.

Drawing from his extensive experience in mental health settings including High Dependency Units (HDU) and Emergency Departments, Dr Theodoros reflects on the emotional, ethical, and systemic challenges that clinicians face across disciplines. The conversation unpacks what it means to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, challenging risks and the importance of compassion—for both clients and practitioners.

Together, Jessica and Theo discuss strategies for navigating burnout, maintaining professional integrity, and fostering supportive, reflective environments in the face of adversity. This honest and thoughtful dialogue offers a rare insight into the shared struggles and strengths that unite occupational therapists, psychiatrists, and other allied health professionals working in demanding contexts.

Whether you’re a student, clinician, or leader in health, this episode will leave you reflecting on how we care—for others and ourselves—in complex systems.

Host:  Jessica Levick

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Welcome back to the Occupied Podcast! After a significant hiatus, we’re rebooting with fresh perspectives, exciting content, and most importantly, a brand-new co-host—Jessica Levick.

In this special reboot episode:
Meet Jessica Levick: Get to know Jessica, her professional background in Occupational Therapy, and her vision for the future of Occupied.
What’s Changing: Brock and Jessica discuss why the podcast took a break, what’s been happening behind the scenes, and what listeners can expect moving forward.
New Directions & Fresh Ideas: Explore exciting new topics, formats, and features coming your way. From in-depth conversations and expert interviews to addressing critical issues in Occupational Therapy.

Join us as we kick off a new chapter filled with enthusiasm, insight, and community engagement. Subscribe and stay occupied with the conversations that matter!

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Hosts: Brock Cook & Jessica Levick

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In this episode I sit down with Dr. Jessica Levick to explore the intersection of identity, social media, and the commercialisation of mental health. Together, we unpack the growing influence of social media personalities on mental health narratives, discussing both the opportunities and the challenges this creates for individuals seeking support. We delve into how this trend impacts perceptions of identity and mental well-being and consider the role Occupational Therapy can play in promoting authentic, inclusive, and ethical approaches to mental health care in this evolving digital landscape. Whether you’re an OT, a student, or simply curious about the impact of social media on health, this episode will leave you with plenty to think about. Tune in for an insightful and thought-provoking conversation!

And hey, if you enjoyed today’s chat, we’d love it if you could leave us a review and share the episode with your network.

Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied

Brock
@brockcookOT
[email protected]

In this inspiring episode of Occupied, I sit down with the multi-talented Lindsay DeLong, an occupational therapist and online content creator known for her innovative videos on assistive technologies.

Lindsay shares her journey of merging her passion for occupational therapy with her creative flair, offering listeners a unique perspective on how assistive technologies can enhance lives. She delves into the challenges and rewards of being a creator in this niche, providing valuable insights for both aspiring content creators and occupational therapy professionals. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of healthcare, technology, and creativity, as Lindsay’s story is a testament to the impact one can make by combining their professional expertise with their personal interests.

And hey, if you enjoyed today’s chat, we’d love it if you could leave us a review and share the episode with your network.

Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied

Brock
@brockcookOT
[email protected]

In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the fascinating topic of Critical Thinking and its significance in our daily lives. We aim to unravel the mysteries of this crucial skill set, often overlooked yet essential for personal growth and informed decision-making. We’ll discuss practical strategies for nurturing a critical mindset, share insights from experts in the field, and provide listeners with actionable tips to apply critical thinking in various aspects of their lives. Whether you’re a seasoned critical thinker or just beginning to explore this area, this episode promises to be an enlightening journey into the world of rational thought and reasoned analysis. Join us as we embark on this adventure to enhance our cognitive abilities and enrich our understanding of the world around us.

And hey, if you enjoyed today’s chat, we’d love it if you could leave us a review and share the episode with your network.

Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied

Brock
@brockcookOT
[email protected]

Today’s episode is all about mastering interviews, whether you’re sitting in the hot seat or the one steering the conversation. We’re unpacking everything from breaking down interview myths to post-interview protocols in a way that’s easy to digest and even easier to put into action.

First off, we’re tackling what really happens in an interview, shining a light on the realities versus the common myths. Making a stellar first impression is more than just dressing sharp; it’s about presenting the best version of yourself, from your body language to your choice of words. And speaking of words, we’ll dive into how to keep the conversation flowing naturally, with tips on active listening and expressing yourself clearly without getting tangled in jargon. Feeling jittery just thinking about interviews? No stress! We’ve got some straightforward strategies to help you stay cool and collected. Plus, once the interview’s over, we’re not leaving you hanging. We’ll chat about the art of the follow-up and why reflecting on your interview experience is a hidden gem for personal growth. Wrapping up Episode 167, remember, it’s all about being prepared, staying authentic, and communicating clearly. Tune in next time for more real talk and pro tips in the world of occupational therapy.

And hey, if you enjoyed today’s chat, we’d love it if you could leave us a review and share the episode with your network.

Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied

Brock
@brockcookOT
[email protected]

Welcome to the latest episode where we explore the intricate dynamics of racial identity, privilege, and the role of white individuals in addressing systemic racism. In this episode, I’m joined by Helen Harrington and Marielle Turner and we embark on a journey of self-reflection and understanding. We delve into the concept of white privilege, and its impact on healthcare today. We confront uncomfortable truths and share personal stories, aiming to foster a deeper comprehension of our own roles in perpetuating or dismantling racial inequalities. This conversation is an essential step for anyone committed to the path of anti-racism and inclusivity. Tune in, listen with an open heart, and join us in this vital dialogue.

Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied

Brock
@brockcookOT
[email protected]