Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson

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

Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson episodes

April 27EPISODE 8: Dr. Lynn Scoles – Agency, Energy, and Courage, Coaching Beyond the Clinic
EPISODE 8: Dr. Lynn Scoles – Agency, Energy, and Courage, Coaching Beyond the Clinic
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
How does a doctor recalibrate when life throws curveballs—at work, at home, and within?
In this episode, Sharee sits down with Dr. Lynn Scoles, General Practitioner, Executive Coach, educator, and creator, for a rich conversation spanning 33 years in medicine, the courage to step beyond tradition, and the importance of honoring your own agency.
From finding balance and breaking the mould in dual careers, family, and personal creativity, Lynn shares candid insights about adaptation, growth, and self-worth.
This is a story of moving forward—sometimes bravely, sometimes uncertainly, and always with a commitment to making a difference, not at your own expense.
SHOW NOTES: “Is the life you’re living worth what you’re giving up to have it?” — Lynn Scoles
Key Takeaways:
Recalibration is ongoing. Lynn demonstrates how big and small pivots—in career, relationships, and self-identity—can bring new energy and meaning.
Agency is powerful. Notice serendipitous opportunities and make conscious, values-aligned choices.
Support systems matter. Trusted friends, honest feedback, and reflective spaces are crucial—inside and outside medicine.
Leadership needs breadth. Diverse experiences, including coaching and business, strengthen clinicians as system influencers.
Creativity nourishes resilience. Artistic pursuits offer mindfulness, restoration, and a sense of accomplishment outside work.
Self-care isn’t selfish. “Not at my expense”—honor your limits as you care for others and yourself.
Resources & Topics Mentioned:
Book Recommendations:
The Power of Full Engagement by Jim Loehr & Tony Schwartz (Lynn Scoles’s forthcoming book Renewable draws inspiration from this resource)
Making of a Corporate Athlete — Harvard Business Review article by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz
Themes:
The role of coaching in medicine and beyond
Lynn discusses entering coaching, the challenge of being among the first doctors to do so, and how coaching with non-medical clients expanded her professional perspective at 16:35 — 24:22.
Sharee and Lynn explore how moving between medical culture and the business world offered new insights and leadership skills at 23:16 — 26:04.
Lynn reflects on the need for more doctors in leadership and how her work in executive education and coaching relates to that vision at 25:12 — 26:04.
Navigating loss, divorce, and transitions
Lynn describes the personal stressors and pivotal events (patient death, marital difficulties) that led her to recalibrate her life and professional identity at 16:38 — 21:25.
The journey and reflection on the end of her marriage and how she learned to advocate for herself and her children is discussed at 29:04 — 31:04.
The transition from her family home, what prompted it, the emotional work of letting go, and the unexpected sense of liberation are recounted from 36:29 — 39:31.
The importance of creativity
Lynn describes her lifelong love of crafting, how art and painting became more central to her well-being, and why creative practice matters for presence and problem-solving at 39:59 — 42:35.
The discussion on how crafting serves as a mindfulness practice and aids in relaxation and creativity occurs at 41:41 — 42:16.

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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Enjoyed the episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share with friends or colleagues exploring growth and recalibration.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from the healthcare frontline and beyond.
51 min
April 20EPISODE 7: Dr. Ashok Bhattacharya – Build your life, work is one part of it.
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
What if the secret to lasting resilience in healthcare is both simpler and deeper than we imagine?
In this episode of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, Sharee speaks with Dr. Ashok Bhattacharya—psychiatrist, founder of the Empathy Clinic, musician, artist, and author—about the lived experience of recalibrating through adversity, loneliness, and transition. From his childhood navigating disability and migration, to defining his path outside traditional medical norms, Ashok shares wisdom on empathy, balance, and the power of narrative.
A conversation rich with insight on psychological flexibility, the importance of support, and designing a life (not just a job) that honors all parts of yourself.
SHOW NOTES:
“Build your life and put your career into it, instead of building your career and squeezing your life in around it.” — Ashok Bhattacharya
Key Takeaways:
Empathy is healing—for the giver as well as the receiver.
Psychological flexibility is a powerful resource in adapting to life’s curveballs.
Struggle brings richness and growth, especially when shared with others.
Self-care is non-negotiable; habits outside of medicine matter for resilience.
Community and deep relationships (inside and outside healthcare) are vital for wellbeing and longevity.
Regularly ask: “Who am I?”—your identity is more than your credentials.
Narrative therapy and storytelling can help reframe trauma and unlock post-traumatic resilience.
It’s not either/or, but with—bring both professional expertise and humanity to medicine.
Resources Mentioned:
The Empathy Clinic: Founded by Dr. Bhattacharya, integrating empathy, balance, and optimal wellness for individuals and couples.
Ashok Bhattacharya LinkedIn page
Book’s by Ashok Bhattacharya:
Deep Fried Nerves (novel on healthcare experiences)
Cake (relationship guide for couples)
The Harvard Study of Adult Development: Referenced for the importance of significant relationships on longevity and fulfilment.
“The Mind is in the Body”—Inspired by My Octopus Teacher (Netflix documentary), on holistic mind-body connection.
Our theme music is "Caribbean" by Zambolino, sourced from FreeToUse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean.
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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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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 14 min
April 13EPISODE 6: Dr. Brian Lee – Social Support, Systemic Change, and Family Wellbeing in Healthcare
EPISODE 6: Dr. Brian Lee – Social Support, Systemic Change, and Family Wellbeing in Healthcare
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
What happens when personal lived experience, qualitative research, and systemic insight converge in one conversation?
In this episode of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, Sharee Johnson is joined by research fellow Dr Brian Lee, whose work at Deakin University's Lifespan Institute explores the psychosocial impacts of frontline healthcare work, workforce retention, and the ripple effects of COVID-19.
Dr Brian Lee shares his journey—balancing parenthood, an ADHD diagnosis, and juggling demands at home and work. Together, they delve into the power and pitfalls of social support, the nuanced needs of healthcare teams, and the crucial role of families in sustaining wellbeing.
A candid, thoughtful conversation about vulnerability, adaptation, and the small shifts that make big changes in healthcare and in life.
SHOW NOTES:
“Small shifts for big changes.” — Dr Brian Lee 01:02:20 Key Takeaways:
Social support in healthcare is vital, yet often misunderstood. Having colleagues who “get it” and spaces for open conversation directly improves wellbeing and retention.
COVID-19 exposed systemic challenges: workforce fragmentation, loss of mentorship, and the need for coordinated national strategies to support healthcare workers.
The emotional tone of organizational responses is generally positive and aspirational, but the “how” remains a challenge. Evidence-based, locally tailored interventions are essential.
Qualitative research and co-design with real healthcare workers amplify lived experience—patterns of empathy, compassion fatigue, moral injury, and the importance of team cohesion emerge across roles and units.
Family wellbeing has a ripple effect: when families are supported, healthcare workers perform better and sustain their energy. Balance isn’t about boundaries but adapting and integrating roles and identities.
ADHD diagnosis and therapy highlight the process of recalibration: acceptance, experimentation, resilience, and awareness underpin ongoing growth and adaptation. Trying again matters.
Highlights:
“Healthcare workers rely on colleagues for social support, problem-solving, and emotional regulation—it’s organic, but hard to recreate with formal interventions.” Dr Brian Lee 15:21
“Families’ capacity to support depends on their wellbeing, and is shaped by the healthcare worker’s work—managing the work–family interface creates positive ripple effects.” Dr Brian Lee 52:25
“Even if strategies don’t work at first, trying again, adapting, and giving yourself permission to experiment is part of the recalibration process.” Dr Brian Lee 32:17
Resources Mentioned:
MRFF-funded intervention for healthcare families: An online, co-designed wellbeing program to support healthcare workers and their families. Sign up for updates and participation via Deakin Lifespan Institute’s webpage.
Gallup Research on workplace friendship: Referenced by Sharee Johnson as evidence for the importance of social support 10:55.
Work from Tate Shanafelt and colleagues on unit-specific needs and federally funded attempts to create coordinated strategies in Australia 11:07.
Our theme music is "Caribbean" by Zambolino, sourced from FreeToUse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean.
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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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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 2 min
April 06EPISODE 5: Dr. Andrew Green – Changing specialty, discovering emotions, practical mindfulness.
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
What if less stress while working in medicine came from embracing your limits and learning to reconnect—with others and yourself?
In this heartfelt episode of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, Sharee sits down with Dr. Andrew Green, specialist anaesthetist and former GP, to explore his journey through burnout, career change, and the powerful role of community. Andrew reflects on the process of transitioning specialties, the struggle to find meaning amid medical routines, and how men's circles, mindfulness, and group coaching profoundly shaped his emotional wellbeing.
Tune in for an honest look at the realities of medical life, the courage it takes to recalibrate, and how creating safe spaces for reflection and connection can transform how we care for patients and ourselves.
SHOW NOTES:
“What comes up for me right now… is the change that’s happened over time. That whole imposter syndrome thing is just evaporating faster and faster. This is just me. I’m okay just to tell my story.” — Dr. Andrew Green
Key Takeaways:
Recalibration often begins with recognizing the need for change—even before we have words like burnout for it.
Safe spaces, like men’s groups or facilitated doctor circles, are transformative for emotional wellbeing and learning to talk about feelings.
Mindfulness, intentional breathing, and emotional literacy are skills that help maintain calm—even in critical moments—and can be practiced and developed at any stage.
Taking real time off and prioritizing joy, space, and self-reflection lead to a more three-dimensional approach to work and life.
Sharing vulnerability, practicing gratitude, and telling your own story are strengths—not weaknesses
Resources Mentioned:
Coaching for Doctors program Recalibrate Learn more, join the waitlist: coachingfordoctors.net.au
Book: Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl: https://www.penguin.com.au/books/mans-search-for-meaning-9781846046384):
Dedication:
This episode is dedicated to the life and spirit of Dr. Sarah Wilmot.
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 these stories of recalibration and resilience in healthcare. Stay tuned for more inspiring guests on Recalibrating!
1 hr 1 min
March 30EPISODE 4: Dr. Cheryl Martin – Resilience, Recalibration, and the Power of Community
EPISODE DESCRIPTION:
How do we recalibrate when life, career, and identity shift unexpectedly? In this episode, Sharee Johnson sits down with Dr. Cheryl Martin—emergency physician, trail runner, yoga practitioner, and host of The Mindful Medic podcast. Cheryl shares her journey from Scotland to Australia, the lessons learned through setbacks and relocation, and how running, yoga, and lifelong learning have helped her navigate burnout, injury, and her ever evolving purpose in medicine. Join us for a deep, joyful conversation about adaptability, intentional change, agency, and the vital role of support and reflection for thriving.

SHOW NOTES:
“Find community, find people... I also found a group, quite interestingly, who were quite open, particularly not just running for physical health, but about their mental health.” — Dr. Cheryl Martin
Key Takeaways:
Recalibrating is a lifelong practice—embrace discomfort, learning zones, and growth through adversity.
Support networks (mentors, peers, trail tribe) are essential as we navigate medicine and life.
Passion projects and interests outside of medicine—like running and podcasting—create fulfillment and resilience.
Surrender, awareness, and intentional reflection are critical when faced with setbacks, injury, or fatigue.
Diversity, connection, and broadening perspectives (like Cheryl’s MBA experience) fuel innovation, leadership, and personal development.
Progress is not linear; recalibrating means accepting change and evolving values at every stage.
Resources Mentioned:
The Mindful Medic Podcast: Cheryl’s project amplifying stories of wellbeing, medicine, and personal transformation. Recommended episodes include conversations with Amy Edmondson, Bob Chapman, Jonathan Fisher, and Dr. Colin West. https://www.themindfullmedicpodcast.com/
The Thriving Doctor by Sharee Johnson: Referenced for its insights into agency, identity, and wellbeing in medical practice. https://learn.coachingfordoctors.net.au/thriving-doctor
Stanford Medicine Chief Wellness Officer Course & Melbourne Business School Global Senior Executive MBA Program: Cheryl’s further education in health leadership and organizational wellbeing. https://med.stanford.edu/wellmd/knowledge-hub/courses-conferences/cwo-course.html
https://mbs.edu/degree-programs/full-time-mba
Amy Edmondson’s books: The Fearless Organization and Right Kind of Wrong—on intelligent failure and psychological safety in teams. https://amycedmondson.com/

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 17 min
March 23Episode 3: Sue Robins - Call it love and include yourself on the list.
What does advocating for yourself and others actually look like when life throws you a curveball?
In this heartfelt episode of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, Sharee is joined by Canadian author, speaker, and patient advocate Sue Robins. Together, they explore the ever-evolving practice of recalibration—professionally and personally—through caregiving, career shifts, patient experiences, and embracing vulnerability in the health system.
A powerful conversation about living with empathy, accepting change, and showing yourself as much love and care as you offer others.
SHOW NOTES:
“Think of all the people you care for…and then add yourself to the list.” — Sue Robins
Key Takeaways:
Recalibration isn’t just for major life moments; it’s a daily practice of adapting, prioritizing, and showing compassion.
True advocacy means speaking up for others—and sometimes, having someone else advocate for you when you’re most vulnerable.
Self-compassion means adding yourself to the list of those you care for and seeking joy in small, everyday moments.
Empathy and humanity matter most in healthcare. A warm look, holding a hand, or a kind word can be as powerful as medicine.
Patient voices and stories are essential—health system change is a generational, collective effort.
Acceptance and being present are everyday touchstones for recalibrating through uncertainty and adversity.
Books by Sue Robins:
Bird’s Eye View: Stories of the patient and non-clinician perspective in healthcare.
Ducks in a Row: Further insights into Sue's personal and professional journey.
Stay Human Movement:
A storytelling initiative founded by Sue and Vikram Bubber, highlighting moments of humanity in healthcare. Find and contribute stories on Instagram @stayhuman26 and use #StayHuman.
Connect with Sue at https://www.suerobins.com and https://www.birdcomm.ca
on Instagram @suerobins and @stayhuman26, and on LinkedIn @Sue Robins.
Resources and Mentions
Health Improvement Institute - https://www.ihi.org/
Anne Lamott - https://www.penguin.com.au/books/bird-by-bird-9780385480017
Simon Sinek’s Book The Infinite Game, https://simonsinek.com/books/the-infinite-game
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy/Training): a great place to start is here
Referenced by Sue as a valuable framework for self-acceptance, being present, and reframing emotional experiences.
Documentary Sue refers to about Poet, Andrea Gibson is on Apple TV and is called: Come Find me in the Good Light
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, share a review, and send this episode to friends or colleagues seeking inspiration around adapting in healthcare and life. Stay tuned for more wise, generous guests on Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson.
1 hr 9 min
March 16EPISODE 2: Dr. Rob Blum – Leadership, Letting Go, and Living Beyond Medicine
What happens when the unexpected disrupts your path—and what skills help you navigate through? In this inspiring conversation, oncologist and clinical director Dr. Rob Blum joins Sharee Johnson to explore recalibrating through career pivots, family moves, physical injury, and the evolving demands of medicine.

Dr. Blum shares stories of risk-taking, leadership, and resilience, reflecting on the importance of teamwork, music, health, and having options. Together, Rob Blum and Sharee Johnson dive deep into why self-awareness, flexibility, and connection are essential to sustain wellbeing, meaning, and a life beyond just work.

Rich with practical takeaways and vulnerable wisdom, this episode encourages listeners to pause, realign, and actively create a life that’s not only robust—but antifragile.

“Everything we do has a risk or an unknown component... but you can’t do great things if you don’t take risks.” — Rob Blum
Key Takeaways:
Recalibrating skills apply to every part of life—work, family, and self.
Mindfulness creates a gap between experience and reaction; it isn’t just relaxation, it’s essential for wise decision-making.
Prioritizing wellbeing isn’t optional: define what fills your bucket and honor it as non-negotiable.
Leadership means letting go, empowering others, and embracing change in yourself.
Have options—diverse interests make life richer and make you “antifragile” in the face of curveballs.
Support networks and mentors are vital; find people to help you reflect and offer perspective.
Embrace imperfection, especially when balancing demanding careers with passions, wellness, and family.
Resources Mentioned:
The Wellbeing Index (WBI): A tool for clinicians to assess and reflect on their own wellbeing. Delivered by Beamtree in Australia and New Zealand. Used globally, developed by Mayo Clinic.
Recalibrate Community & Program: Personal growth that impacts professional capacity. Supporting doctors develop their intra and interpersonal skills for performance, wellbeing, and sustainable leadership.
Nassim Nicholas Taleb’s book Antifragile. Things that gain from disorder.
The Hush Foundation: Initiative bringing music and pianos into hospitals for patient and staff wellbeing.
Our theme music is "Caribbean" by Zambolino, sourced from FreeToUse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean.
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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 episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with colleagues or friends who could use inspiration and practical wisdom for recalibrating their lives. Stay tuned—there’s more coming on Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson!
1 hr
February 27Episode 1: Dr. Liz Wearne – Navigating Change, Trust, and Purpose
What if recalibrating your life and career started with listening to your own internal voice?
In this debut episode of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, Sharee speaks with Dr. Liz Wearne a General Practitioner, educator, board member, and ceramic artist—about trust, wellbeing, creativity, and choosing work that aligns with your energy and values.
A thoughtful conversation about slowing down, tuning in, and courageously reshaping your path in healthcare and life.
“So I think choosing different roles at different times has been about checking in with myself first and going, do I have the energy for this?” — Dr. Liz Wearne
Key Takeaways:
Reflect on what matters most to you—internally and externally.
Be open to recalibrating your life and career, especially when you notice yearning or restlessness.
Cultivate internal and external support systems. Champions, mentors, and community matter.
Don’t be afraid of vulnerability or failure; courage and patience are partners in growth.
Recognize that rest, creativity, and joy are vital, not just “nice-to-haves.”
Mindfulness, values, and presence help anchor you through change.
Resources Mentioned:
Recalibrate Doctor Care Program:
Liz is the co-creator of the Recalibrate program for doctors, designed to support recalibration, wellbeing, and growth in medical practice.
Book Recommendation – Say What You Mean by Oren Jay Sofer:
Referenced by Liz as foundational for mindful communication and values-based living.
TED x PSU, Off Balance on Purpose – The Future of Engagement and Work-Life Balance:
Dan Thurmon explores how those patterns can be transcended by living off balance on purpose.
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 15 min

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