The Sim Tech Podcast: Clinical Simulation

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig is joined by Guy from Charisma.ai to explore how AI-driven virtual humans are changing the landscape of simulation and education.

Charisma.ai creates interactive avatars that can hold realistic conversations, respond to emotional cues, and adapt to user input — opening new possibilities for communication-based simulation in healthcare and beyond. Together, we discuss how this technology can be used to train communication skills, decision-making, leadership, and human factors, as well as the technical and ethical challenges of using AI in simulated environments.

We also look behind the scenes at how believable virtual characters are built, the role of body language and facial expression, and where AI-powered simulation could go next.

Whether you’re a simulation technician, educator, developer, or simply curious about the future of immersive training, this episode offers a practical and thought-provoking insight into AI in simulation.

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig is joined by Sarah, a Clinical Teaching Fellow who’s working to develop and deliver an in-situ simulation package within the NHS.

Taking simulation out of the centre and into real clinical environments brings huge learning opportunities — but it also comes with challenges. Sara talks honestly about where the idea started, the practical hurdles she’s faced, gaining clinical buy-in, balancing service pressures, and what it really takes to make in-situ simulation sustainable.

We also explore how others can support in-situ work, why testing systems and teamwork in real settings matters, and what Sarah would do differently if she were starting again.

Whether you’re an educator or clinician thinking about running in-situ simulation — or you’re already trying to make it happen — this episode offers practical insight and reassurance from someone right in the middle of the process.

🎧 Follow The Sim Tech Podcast for more behind-the-scenes conversations from the clinical simulation community.

🎙️ Human Factors in Clinical Simulation – Episode 1 - What is Human Factors?

In this special episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, we kick off a new mini-series exploring human factors and their vital role in healthcare simulation. Craig is joined by Des and Anne, two experienced voices in the field, to discuss what human factors actually mean, why they matter, and how they influence safety, performance, and team dynamics in clinical environments.

Whether you're a sim tech, educator, or healthcare professional, this conversation is packed with insights that will help you understand the systems, behaviours, and environments that shape clinical practice.

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, we go behind the scenes of clinical simulation and sit down with Marnie, a member of the simulation community who shares her experiences, insights, and perspective on life in sim.

We talk about what her role involves day to day, the realities of working in clinical simulation, the challenges that come with supporting high-quality training, and what often goes unseen behind the doors of the sim suite. Marnie also reflects on what drew her into simulation and what she feels is important for the future of the profession.

Whether you’re a simulation technician, educator, or simply curious about how simulation really works, this episode offers an honest and relatable look at the people who make it happen.

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig sits down with the Isaac from RIB Technologies to explore the craft, creativity, and innovation behind their manikins, task trainers, and wearable technologies.

We dig into how RIB bring clinical realism to life, the challenges of designing durable and believable training tools, and the surprising details that matter most when creating products for high-pressure simulation environments. From development stories to practical insights for sim techs, this conversation gives a closer look at the people and passion driving one of the sector’s most hands-on suppliers.

Whether you're a seasoned simulation technician or just curious about the tools shaping modern clinical training, this episode offers a grounded and thoughtful look behind the scenes of RIB Technologies.

In this spontaneous episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, the group dives into the world of VR360 and its growing role in enhancing Non-Technical Skills (NTS) training in clinical simulation.

How does immersive 360° video help learners develop situational awareness, communication, and decision-making? Can virtual perspectives boost empathy and retention more than traditional simulation methods? Craig shares his hands-on experiences, reflections from recent projects, and why VR360 might just be the next evolution in how we teach NTS.

🎥 Whether you're a sim tech, educator, or just curious about immersive learning, this episode is all about the power of presence and perspective.

📬 Got thoughts or questions? Reach out via the contact info in the show notes!

In this off-the-cuff episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig dives into the concept of immersion — the secret ingredient that makes simulation feel real, relevant, and impactful.

What actually creates immersion? Is it the tech, the environment, the scenario… or something else entirely? Craig reflects on real-world examples, explores the balance between realism and simplicity, and shares tips on how sim techs can boost learner engagement without blowing the budget.

🎮 From lighting and sound to pacing and flow, this spontaneous solo session is all about what it really takes to pull learners into the moment.

📬 Got your own immersion wins — or fails? Get in touch via the show notes!

🎧 Episode Description – The Sim Tech Podcast
Featuring Mary & Charles – ASPIH Executive Committee Members

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig is joined by Mary and Charles, both Executive Committee members at ASPIH (Association for Simulated Practice in Healthcare). Together, they explore their roles within ASPIH, the importance of community-driven collaboration, and the exciting work being done through the ASPIH Tech Special Interest Group (SIG)—with a nod towards the rapidly growing AI/XR SIG for immersive tech enthusiasts.

We discuss:
• What the ASPIH Executive Committee does and why it matters
• How the XR & Tech Special Interest Group supports the simulation community
• Opportunities for sim techs to share practice, collaborate, and contribute
• The future of XR and immersive technology in clinical simulation

Whether you’re a simulation technician, educator, XR innovator, or simply curious about how technology is shaping the future of healthcare simulation, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical ways to get involved.

🎙️ That brings us to the end of this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast.
A huge thank you to Finn for sharing the journey behind this project, and of course to Clarence Hadoux for allowing his story to inspire and educate so many.

This work is a powerful reminder that simulation isn’t just about technical skills — it’s about empathy, understanding, and seeing the person beyond the patient.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to follow the podcast so you don’t miss future conversations. And if you’d like to get in touch, share your thoughts, or suggest a topic, you can reach me at [email protected]

Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you in the next episode of The Sim Tech Podcast.

In this episode of The Sim Tech Podcast, Craig sits down with Sarah, CEO of Vein Train, to talk about the company’s journey and its mission to raise the standard of vascular access training. From the origins of Vein Train to the innovations shaping its future, Sarah shares insights into how simulation can transform education and improve patient safety.

Whether you’re a simulation technician, healthcare educator, or simply curious about the tools shaping clinical training, this episode offers valuable perspectives and inspiration.