The Sim Tech Podcast: Clinical Simulation

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig is joined by Stuart from CSKILLS by Cameron Communications to explore the world of video recording solutions in clinical simulation.

They discuss the importance of reliable recording systems, how video technology supports effective debriefing, common challenges faced by simulation centres, and what sim techs should consider when designing or upgrading their AV setup.

From installation and integration to the future of AI in simulation recording, this episode offers practical insight for anyone involved in simulation-based education.

Episode Description – Spotify

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig explores the role of professional actors in clinical simulation and how they can enhance realism in healthcare education.

Joining the podcast is Dan from The Actors Forge, an organisation that works with a large network of professional actors supporting medical education and training. Their team includes over 100 active adult actors, a wider network of more than 500 performers, and 80 Teen & Young Adult actors who can support age-specific scenarios.

Together we discuss how trained actors can support simulation through realistic and responsive role play, particularly in areas such as clinical communication skills, patient-centred care, human factors, and difficult conversations.

We also explore the differences between professional simulated patients and internal staff role-play, how actors are trained for healthcare environments, and what simulation centres should consider when introducing professional actors into their programmes.

Whether you're a simulation technician, educator, faculty member, or simply interested in how immersive learning experiences are created, this episode offers a fascinating look at the human side of simulation.

Topics covered include:

• Training actors for medical simulation

• The value of realism in communication scenarios

• Supporting difficult conversations in training

• Integrating professional actors into simulation programmes

Links & Contact
If you'd like to learn more about The Actors Forge or explore collaboration opportunities, links and contact information are available in the episode notes.

[email protected]
+44 (0) 7716936100

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig is joined by Jake from The Simulation Collective to reflect on his experiences at IMSH.

Together, they unpack what it was really like being on the ground — from standout sessions and meaningful conversations, to the trends, technology, and talking points that dominated the conference floor. They also explore the challenges of cutting through the noise at large events like IMSH and what genuinely feels useful for simulation technicians and centres back home.

Whether you attended IMSH, followed it online, or skipped it entirely, this episode offers an honest, technician-focused take on what mattered, what didn’t, and what it might all mean for the future of simulation.

In this video podcast, we sit down with Ahmed and Hana from MedAscend to explore the evolving world of AI-powered avatars in communication-based simulation.

We dive into how this innovative technology is helping to bridge the gap between traditional simulation and scalable, accessible training—allowing learners to engage with realistic, responsive virtual patients in a whole new way. From building confidence in difficult conversations to enhancing human factors and decision-making, AI avatars are opening new doors for simulation delivery.

This episode also features a live demonstration, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how the platform works in practice—showcasing the realism, interactivity, and potential impact on training environments.

If you’re interested in the future of simulation, digital innovation, or just want to see what’s possible beyond the manikin, this is one you won’t want to miss.

🎧 Full episode available now on The Sim Tech Podcast

#SimTechPodcast #ClinicalSimulation #MedEd #AI #HealthcareInnovation #BeyondTheGlass

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig is joined by Bas, Rebecca and Rebecca, the creators of Suits & Scrubs — an innovative simulation board game exploring human factors, decision-making, and system pressures in healthcare.

After seeing their presentation at the Simulation, Immersive and Human Factors meeting, it was clear this wasn’t just a game — it’s a powerful educational tool designed to spark meaningful conversations about leadership tension, competing priorities, and the realities of working within complex healthcare systems.

Together, we explore:

• How Suits & Scrubs came about

• Why they chose a board game format

• The human factors challenges it’s designed to surface

• How it fits alongside traditional simulation

• What happens when you remove the manikin but keep the learning

For simulation technicians and educators, this episode is a reminder that innovation doesn’t always mean more technology — sometimes it means new ways to create safe, structured conversations about the pressures we all recognise.

If you’re interested in expanding how you approach systems thinking and human factors in your centre, this is one you won’t want to miss.

n this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig is joined by Phil from Limbs & Things for a full demonstration and discussion of their Arterial Wrist Puncture Model.

Arterial blood gas sampling is a core skill across acute care, paramedicine, critical care and undergraduate education — but achieving the right balance between realism, durability and ease of setup isn’t always straightforward.

In this episode, you’ll see:

• A practical demonstration of the model
• Insight into the design thinking behind it
• Discussion around realism vs longevity
• Considerations for simulation technicians and clinical skills teams
• Setup, maintenance and day-to-day usability

As always, this conversation is designed to support simulation technicians in making informed decisions about equipment and to explore the realities of running busy simulation and clinical skills programmes.

🎙️ SimTech Symposium Special – For Sim Techs, By Sim Techs

In this special video podcast episode, we’re joined by Russell, Matthew, and Hannah as we dive into everything you need to know about the SimTech Symposium.

Designed for sim techs, by sim techs, this event is all about bringing the community together to share ideas, showcase innovation, and celebrate the vital behind-the-scenes role simulation technicians play in healthcare education.

In this episode, we explore:

🔹 The vision behind the SimTech Symposium

🔹 What attendees can expect on the day

🔹 Why this event is so important for the sim tech community

🔹 Opportunities to connect, learn, and be inspired

Whether you’re a seasoned simulation technician or just starting out, this conversation gives you a real insight into why the SimTech Symposium is fast becoming a must-attend event.

🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and be part of a growing community shaping the future of simulation.

SimTech Symposium – 21st August @ ManchesterThe Simulation Technicians Awards 2026 WebsiteNational Simulation Technician Awards 2026 - Nominations – Fill in form

[email protected]

This episode is a little different — and a lot inspiring.

Craig is joined by Connor from Brompton & Catterick St Annes Scout Group in Richmondshire, who was selected as one of just 30 young people to form the first North Yorkshire Scouts contingent heading on a self-planned European adventure in summer 2027.

To get there, Connor needs to raise £3,600 — and he’s set himself three huge challenges in 2026 to make it happen:

🏕️ A 3-day, 2-night tech-free survival camp, camping under a poncho and cooking all his own food on a fire pit
⛰️ The Yorkshire 3 Peaks – 26 miles across Pen-y-Ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside
🏃 The Junior Great North Run… in fancy dress

In this episode, we talk about resilience, community, stepping outside your comfort zone, and what it looks like when a young person sets a big goal and commits to achieving it.

If you’d like to support Connor, you can find the link to his JustGiving page in the episode description.

Sometimes the best lessons in determination and growth don’t come from a simulation suite — they come from real-world challenges.

Fundraiser Link[email protected]

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, I’m joined by Gordon from Scotia to talk about smotsSUPPORT — a platform created to support people through shared knowledge, problem-solving, and community connection.

We explore why smotsSUPPORT was developed, the challenges it aims to supportbsithin the role, and how it can help people feel more supported in what can often be a niche and isolated role. Gordon shares insight into the thinking behind the platform, how it works in practice, and what it could mean for the future of technical support within clinical simulation.

Whether you’re new to simulation or an experienced simulationist, this episode highlights a resource designed with you in mind.

North East Simulation Circuit – Building a Regional Sim Community

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, I’m joined by Natalie to talk about the North East Simulation Circuit — a growing regional network bringing together simulation technicians, educators and centres from across the North East.

We explore how the circuit started, what problem it was trying to solve, and why collaboration between sim centres is so important. From sharing best practice and resources, to building stronger professional relationships, this conversation highlights the power of connection in a role that can often feel isolated.

If you’re a simulation technician, educator, or leader looking to strengthen your local network — or start one of your own — this episode is packed with practical insight and inspiration.

As always, these questions are only a guide — The Sim Tech Podcast is conversational by nature, and the real value comes from the discussion.

📩 Want to get involved or suggest a guest? Get in touch.

#SimTech #ClinicalSimulation #HumanFactors #SimulationCommunity #TheSimTechPodcast