Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson

By Sharee JohnsonMedicine Health & Fitness Mental Health Education Self-Improvement

Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson episodes

October 19EPISODE 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): 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 on happiness and positive psychology: The talk that inspired Jo to shift from burnout research to an appreciative lens.
Viktor Frankl – Meaning and 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: 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): Values-based strategy guided by te reo Māori worldview, closely aligned with Jo's thriving themes.
APLS (Advanced Paediatric Life Support): The course that sparked Jo's entry into medical education.
Heart of Medicine at Uluru: Shared experience of awe, connection, and alternative ways of seeing what's possible in healthcare.
Recalibrate Doctor Care Program: 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!
1 hr 16 min
September 28EPISODE 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): New Zealand organization supporting Māori doctors through surgical selection and training.
Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS): Operate With Respect program — 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: 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 by Sharee Johnson
Akeyulerre Aboriginal Corporation: Indigenous health organization that participated in the Heart of Medicine conference.
Ben Bravery: 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 with Sue Robins and Victoria Lister.
Victoria Lister: Researcher on how professions develop and maintain their culture.
Medical Deans (Australia & New Zealand): 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.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
For an easy read about what career sponsorship 'looks' like- 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. 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!
1 hr 21 min
September 22 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

22 min
September 14EPISODE 27: Dr. Maura Kenny – The Art of Recalibration: Rest, Identity, and Mindfulness After Medicine
EPISODE 27: Dr. Maura Kenny – The Art of Recalibration: Rest, Identity, and Mindfulness After Medicine
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
What does it really take to recalibrate after a long career in medicine?
In this rich episode Sharee welcomes psychiatrist and mindfulness pioneer Dr Maura Kenny, recently retired after four decades in public and private practice. Together, they explore the transition to retirement, the “brutality” of a lifetime in medicine, the deep need for rest and recovery, and how mindfulness and self-compassion have been pivotal—both personally and professionally.
This conversation offers a candid look at identity shifts, mentorship, the importance of self-care across a clinician’s career, and the evolving landscape of medical wellbeing leadership in Australia.
SHOW NOTES:
“Medicine is a brutal profession. There’s no doubt about it.” — Dr Maura Kenny
Key Takeaways:
Prioritize real, ongoing self-care and skill development at every career stage—it can’t be a one-size-fits-all approach.
Identity in medicine is deeply shaped by context; recalibrating requires letting go, openness, and sometimes, radical rest.
Mindfulness is “like a superpower”—both for practitioners and patients in navigating stress, rumination, and change.
Mentorship and generous colleague support are invaluable; find and nurture those relationships throughout your working life.
Beware the trap of overcommitment—professionally and financially. Flexibility and honest reflection help prevent feeling “trapped.”
Leadership roles in wellbeing are essential but still rare in Australian healthcare; systemic change is slow, but culture matters.
Retirement, like any transition, comes with surprises—allow space for rest, for experimentation, and for rediscovering purpose.
Resources & Mentions:
Mark Williams – Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)**
Recalibrate Doctor Care Program: Programs supporting physician recalibration and wellbeing.
Book Recommendation – “Say What You Mean” by Oren Jay Sofer** (Referenced previously in the series)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dr Aaron T Beck: https://beckinstitute.org/about/understanding-cbt/
Thomas Merton, Trappist Monk: https://www.thelivingwater.com.au/blog/the-wild-young-man-who-became-a-mystic-and-prophet
Jonathan Haidt on human goodness: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/wired_to_be_inspired
The Last Lecture is also available to watch on YouTube: https://www.hachette.com.au/randy-pausch/the-last-lecture-lessons-in-living-the-international-bestseller
Timothea Goddard and the Mindfulness Training Institute Australia - New Zealand : https://www.mtia.org.au/search-results/teacher?id=3
Dr Paul Gilbert and the Compassionate Mind Foundation
Dr Amish Jha and 12 minutes of meditation: https://amishi.com/books/peak-mind
MBCT -Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy: https://www.mbct.com/
National Institute for Clinical Excellence (UK) NICE Mindfulness Guidelines: https://www.nice.org.uk/search?q=mindfulness
Dr Tait Shanafelt and the Stanford Chief Wellbeing Officer Course: https://med.stanford.edu/wellmd/knowledge-hub/courses-conferences/cwo-course.html
Stanford Model of Occupational Wellbeing: https://wellmd.stanford.edu/wellbeing-toolkit/model.html
Dr Chris Turner on Incivility in Healthcare
Music:
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!
1 hr 18 min
September 07 EPISODE 26: Dr. Janice Tan – Expansive Optimism, Digital Health, and the Art of Recalibrating
EPISODE 26: Dr. Janice Tan – Expansive Optimism, Digital Health, and the Art of Recalibrating EPISODE DESCRIPTION: How does a doctor thrive at the intersection of frontline medicine and digital transformation? In this energizing conversation, Sharee sits down with Dr. Janice Tan—General Practitioner, digital health leader, and clinical innovator—to explore how medicine, technology, and authentic patient relationships can evolve together. Dr. Tan shares candidly about her nonlinear career journey, the discomfort of change, and her drive to make healthcare more humane and equitable. Discover why expansive optimism, strategic scepticism, and compassion are essential as AI and tech rapidly reshape primary care—and how your own strengths and passions can guide your next recalibration. SHOW NOTES: “Passion is the North Star that’s underneath everything I do, which is to really leave the world a better place, a bit better than I found it.” — Dr. Janice Tan Key Takeaways: - Start with what you love and your strengths: problem-solving, connection, and practical reflection matter, especially in uncertain times. - Primary care is both challenged and full of opportunity—with digital health as a potential enabler for better, more equitable care. - Technology is rapidly changing consultations: from telehealth to AI scribes, both doctor and patient roles are evolving. - The doctor-patient relationship is shifting from paternalism to partnership. Trust and safe spaces for open dialogue, especially around misinformation, are crucial. - Strategic thinking means translating between clinical realities and systemic change—being both professionally optimistic and skeptical. - Identity and discomfort are natural in career transitions; every step is growth, not failure. - Patient empowerment is central—even in debates about privacy, data ownership, and My Health Record. - Genomics, AI, and digital access are set to transform preventative, personalized, and meaningful primary care practice in the coming years. Resources Mentioned: - RACGP Health of the Nation Report - My Health Record: Sharing by Default (from 1 July 2026) - The Medical Republic / Australian Doctor (Janice’s op-eds) 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!
56 min
August 27EPISODE 25: Dr. Simon Judkins – Safe Work, System Change, and Why Teams Matter
EPISODE 25: Dr. Simon Judkins – Safe Work, System Change, and Why Teams Matter EPISODE DESCRIPTION Championing the wellbeing of those who care for us. We are breaking with our usual podcast schedule today as Sharee speaks with Dr. Simon Judkins, President of AMA Victoria, emergency physician about the protected industrial action unfolding in Victoria as public hospital doctors urge the Victorian government to come to the negotiating table. Victorian doctors' EBA expired several months ago and there is currently no offer to consider from the government, a serious concern for all Victorians. Together, they also explore the critical intersections of safe working conditions, psychological safety, climate impacts on health, and what truly sustains doctors in challenging times. A must-hear conversation for doctors, patients, and anyone invested in the future of care. Sustainable and effective healthcare must include listening to those on the frontline. SHOW NOTES "A champion team is better than a team of champions." — Dr. Simon Judkins Key Takeaways
Safe Work Environments Are Essential: Prolonged fatigue, excessive hours, and unfair rostering harm both doctors and patients. Psychological safety isn’t a luxury—it’s a legal and ethical responsibility.
Burnout is Epidemic: too many doctors experience burnout symptoms. The system’s reliance on goodwill and unpaid extra work is unsustainable.
Doctors Are Asking for Ordinary Protections: Pay for overtime worked, reasonable shift limits, protected time for training, and safe conditions—mirroring what most workers expect in any industry.
Patient Safety is Inseparable from Doctor Wellbeing: Errors and moral injury rise as clinicians work exhausted, unsupported, or unseen. When doctors are well, patient outcomes improve.
Teamwork Is Core: True leadership means elevating the team, nurturing support for new leaders, and ensuring every member feels valued. Collective action—not individual heroics—moves healthcare forward.
Climate Change Is a Health Crisis: From European heatwaves to local resource security, climate impacts ripple through hospitals and communities. Doctors must be both caregivers and advocates for system-level change.
Community Voice Matters: Public support and political action are crucial to resolving industrial disputes. Writing to MPs, supporting healthcare workers, and educating oneself about these issues can make a difference.
Resources & Actions
Support for Health Workers: AMA Victoria's 24/7 support hotline: 1300 330 543. Peer support: 1300 853 338.
Doctors for the Environment Australia: Advocate for climate and health action.
Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA): Resources and advocacy for sustainable healthcare.
Get Involved: Write to your local MP, hospital, or local paper about the need for safe doctor staffing and fair negotiations.
Williamson’s Community Leadership Program
AMA National conference this weekend where Dr Judkins will be on a panel with Dr Leanne Rowe and others

Memorable Quotes
“We need to look after the people looking after the people.” — Dr. Simon Judkins
“If clinicians are saying the system isn’t good enough, government needs to pay attention—because it isn’t good enough.” — Dr. Simon Judkins
“None of us wanted industrial action. But safe care for patients begins with safe conditions for doctors.” — Dr. Simon Judkins
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 invested in compassionate, safe, and sustainable healthcare. Stay tuned for more episodes of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson—stories and strategies for recalibrating life, work, and wellbeing.
1 hr 21 min
August 17EPISODE 23: Dr. Jasmina Kevric – It's always okay to start again. Courage and Advocacy in Medicine.
EPISODE 23: Dr. Jasmina Kevric – It's always okay to start again. Courage and Advocacy in Medicine. EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
What if every disruption in your life became an invitation to start again, stronger and more true to yourself?
In this episode Sharee is in conversation with Dr Jasmina Kevric—Melbourne-based breast surgeon, refugee advocate, and community leader—to explore vulnerability, ambition, and the power of authentic service and storytelling.
From surviving the war in Bosnia to building a purpose-driven surgical career in Australia, Dr Kevric shares what it takes to lead with courage, recalibrate in the face of setbacks, and nurture the communities that shape us.
A conversation about agency, equity, and never being afraid to start again. SHOW NOTES:
“One of the mantras I always go back to is: never be afraid to start again.” — Dr Jasmina Kevric Key Takeaways:
Embrace change and recalibration as opportunities rather than threats.
Know your “why”—clarity of purpose grounds you through challenge and change.
Community and connection are vital for resilience—progress happens together.
Advocacy begins with personal experience and a desire for the greater good.
Storytelling and authenticity draw others to join in service and reform.
Navigating motherhood, ambition, and medicine requires support, sponsorship, and gentleness with oneself.
Courage doesn’t always roar—sometimes it’s quiet perseverance and being willing to start anew.
Resources & Initiatives:
Les Murray Award for Refugee Recognition: Honoring contributions by those with lived refugee experience (Dr Jasmina Kevric as 2026 recipient).
A survey of Australian and New Zealand medical parents' experiences of infertility, pregnancy, and parenthood. J. Kevric et al 2022
RACS Breastfeeding policy: https://www.surgeons.org/-/media/Project/RACS/surgeons-org/files/policies/3000-3999/POL-3158_Breastfeeding.pdf?rev=1b5086e958a94da2922c1ff8dc117261&hash=0B314D1162DB61AF261EB6F74114CBBE
AMA infant feeding and parental health position statement
https://www.ama.com.au/articles/infant-feeding-and-parental-health-2017
Referenced Topics:
The Heart of Medicine at Uluru – gathering on belonging and connection in healthcare.
The power of sponsorship—having champions in your professional journey.
Importance of rest, self-reflection, and recalibrating your energy.
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!
1 hr 7 min
August 10EPISODE 22: Dr. Jillann Farmer – Clinical Courage, Global Leadership, and The Long Game of Better Culture
EPISODE 22: Dr. Jillann Farmer – Clinical Courage, Global Leadership, and The Long Game of Better Culture
EPISODE DESCRIPTION
When your career takes you from rural Queensland all the way to the halls of the United Nations there’s certainly been some recalibrating!!
In this episode Sharee is thrilled to be in conversation with Dr Jillann Farmer—rural generalist, former Medical Director of the UN, martial artist, and advocate for an equitable, kind medical culture. Together they explore the wisdom Jillann has gained on the frontlines of global crises, the mindset required to step into big opportunities, tackling perfectionism and burnout, and why equity is essential for our future.
A thought provoking discussion about leadership, privilege, mindfulness, and how one breath can make all the difference in moments of chaos.
SHOW NOTES
“Colorblindness is not kindness... it's a stubborn denial of intersectional disadvantage.” — Dr Jillann Farmer
Key Takeaways
Clinical courage means stepping up, even when you’re not the world’s expert, because you’re the one present to help (36:03).
Perfectionism: Striving is vital, but perfection can also discourage you from stepping up or trying new things (01:32, 36:21).
Mindfulness under pressure: Even a single intentional breath can ground you and change your day (14:20).
Intersectional disadvantage: True leadership is recognizing your own privilege and working to dismantle the barriers others face (57:37, 59:09).
Growth comes from openness to opportunity and stepping outside your comfort zone—sometimes into entirely new worlds (44:52).
Non-medical experiences (martial arts, music, board service) enrich leadership and personal wellbeing (33:11, 37:23, 39:39).
Peer support, reflection, and prioritizing even brief pauses are crucial for resilience and leadership (50:04, 51:24).
Medicine’s “culture of perfection” can drive high standards but also reinforce burnout and exclusion; recalibration is possible at every stage of your career.
Resources Mentioned
A Better Culture: National project to improve medical culture, focused on equity, inclusion, and respect. Check show notes for links to final reports and resources (52:19).
Medical Training Survey (MTS): Nationwide survey of early-career doctors, uncovering persistent challenges in medical culture (52:30).
Reflected Best Self Exercise: A reflective tool for strengths-based leadership development (01:07:51).
Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) course: Example of embracing learning beyond healthcare (44:15).
Joint Commission International: Partnered to establish auditable healthcare standards at the UN (31:19).
Penny Abeywardena’s book is out in late 2027
Research regarding 360 feedback favouring men: https://hbr.org/2021/02/research-men-get-more-actionable-feedback-than-women
Additional Highlights
Dr Jillann Farmer shares stories from leading the UN through the first wave of COVID-19 in New York and responding to the Ebola crisis.
Reflections on how early experiences in student advocacy, martial arts, and rural medicine shaped her systemic outlook.
The importance—and challenge—of returning to clinical work after leadership roles (01:18:20).
Why “all doctors are leaders” is both true and misleading (01:02:33).
The necessity of pausing, even briefly, for food and connection in high-intensity work environments (51:24).
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!
1 hr 21 min
July 27EPISODE 21: Dr. Simon Fleming – Diversity, Responsibility, and Belonging strengthen medicine as a profession
EPISODE 21: Dr. Simon Fleming – Diversity, Responsibility, and Belonging strengthen medicine as a profession
EPISODE DESCRIPTION: What happens when you dare to confront the open secrets of medicine—from hierarchy and burnout to bullying and the struggle for genuine diversity? Simon Fleming joins Sharee for a sweeping conversation about challenging toxic traditions, championing inclusion, and rethinking what it means to belong and lead in healthcare. From his journey as an outspoken advocate (even when it meant risking his own safety) to making practical space for joy, community, and mindful recalibration, Simon shares hard truths and hope for culture change—one courageous act at a time.
SHOW NOTES: "Up until the point you speak up... you've been complicit in it, you've been part of it, because until you speak up, you've been going along." — Simon Fleming 27:29
Key Takeaways:
Everyone in medicine is a participant in culture; silence can equate to complicity.
Moral injury, burnout, and power dynamics are systemic—naming them is the first step to change.
True change involves discomfort and challenging inherited professional codes—often a multigenerational task.
Insight is essential: self-awareness, self-critique, and a willingness to adapt enable growth for clinicians at every level.
Creating belonging and diversity requires listening, humility, and collaboration—not just top-down mandates.
Practical rituals outside work (like cooking or sharing food with community) can ground us through stress and transitions.
Leadership training should begin early, focus on real skills (not just performance), and be accessible to all, not just those already "at the top."
Apologies and culture change are both about authentic action and being open to feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Resources & References:
International Orthopaedic Diversity Alliance: Simon Fleming is a founding member advocating for real inclusion in surgical education.
Research Highlight: The significance of insight for sustained surgical competence 01:04:07.
Mentioned Thinkers: Lorelei Lingard on “God terms” in medical culture;
Dr Eric Holmboe, (USA medical educator) was likely referencing "People don't resist change, they resist loss” which is a well recognised organisational psychology principle. Originally coined by Ronald Heifetz and Marty Linsky in their seminal book Leadership on the Line.
Saint Francis of Assisi’s serenity prayer on change and acceptance.
Dr William Halstead
Dr Kevin Dutton, Australian Psychologist and Author of The Wisdom of Psychopaths
“Do the best you can until you know better. Once you know better, do better.” (Maya Angelou)—Simon Fleming's mantra for accountability and growth 01:34:25.
Food for Thought:
Experimenting with the perfect fried chicken and the importance of sharing meals as a metaphor for nurturing, diversity, and community 07:22.
The paradox of empathy and the pressure to develop “empathy fatigue” vs. true compassionate action 47:23.
Theme music: "Caribbean" by Zambolino, sourced from FreeToUse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean.
Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. This podcast represents the views of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any entity we 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!
1 hr 39 min
July 20EPISODE 20: Recalibrating with Community – Stories, Systemic Change, and Healing in Healthcare
EPISODE 20: Recalibrating with Community – Stories, Systemic Change, and Healing in Healthcare
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
How do healthcare professionals, leaders, and patient advocates sustain meaning, wellbeing, and hope while confronting the realities of complex systems?
In this milestone 20th episode, Sharee Johnson reflects on key moments and transformative voices featured so far, celebrating a diverse group of clinicians, researchers, nurses, and advocates shaping healthcare in Australia and beyond. Featuring highlights from discussions about systemic change, personal recalibration, leadership, and the vital role of community, this episode offers listeners a tapestry of insights for anyone seeking to adapt, thrive, and make a difference in healthcare, for patients and healthcare professionals.
SHOW NOTES:
“everybody can recalibrate their lives, we are in fact all doing it all of the time.” — Sharee Johnson 02:31
Key Takeaways:
Collective recalibration is essential: Healthcare workers and patients are constantly adapting; recalibrating is an ongoing process, of interpersonal and intrapersonal skill building and community 02:31.
Workplace culture matters: Staffing, systemic support, and psychological safety are essential for clinician and patient wellbeing. Guilt and self-sacrifice are ongoing challenges within healthcare cultures 05:44, 12:55, 26:11.
Vulnerability is strength: Doctors and patients both benefit when spaces for openness, reflection, and real emotion are created 10:00, 44:12.
Advocacy is shared work: Clinicians and patients often feel powerless in the face of bureaucracy, but together their voices can press for safer, more responsive care 57:33, 01:00:34.
Leadership and support: Senior clinicians, enlightened leaders, and mentors are crucial in making room for junior doctors and others to speak up and recalibrate safely 20:27, 32:47.
The human side of medicine: Joy and fulfilment come from connection—whether with patients, colleagues, or family. Remembering one’s multidimensional identity—beyond “doctor” or “patient”—fuels resilience 14:20, 39:02.
Pause and presence: Mindfulness, tuning into internal and external signals, and setting boundaries are foundational skills for recalibrating life and work 34:43, 35:06.
Resources Mentioned:
The Recalibrate Podcast Archive: Explore earlier episodes featuring esteemed doctors, patient advocates, nurses, and researchers shaping new narratives in healthcare.
Book: The Power of Full Engagement — “Is the life you’re living worth what you’re giving up to have it?” 13:32
Work of Professor Amy Edmondson (on intelligent failure and psychological safety) 01:26:58
Men’s Circles, Mindfulness Practice, and Peer Support Groups as community-centric models for sustainable wellbeing 01:14:06.
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.
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1 hr 26 min

About Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson

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This is Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, where you’ll hear healthcare professionals and others sharing their stories of recalibrating life when the unexpected happened.

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