Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Why Medics Matter
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steve Peters: The Chimp Paradox for Doctors | 05 Oct 2026 | 01:00:46 | |
Most of us have been told that a good doctor stays calm, keeps control, and doesn't let emotion get in the way. But what if control isn't something your brain can actually do? What if the anxiety, frustration and self-criticism you've spent years trying to suppress were never "you" in the first place? And what if the harder you push logic at them, the more they push back? In this conversation with Professor Steve Peters, consultant psychiatrist and author of The Chimp Paradox, we go deeper than the usual resilience chat. Steve has spent 30 years helping medical students and resident doctors understand their own minds, and he breaks down the neuroscience in a way a busy clinician can actually use: why willpower loses, and what works instead. We cover:
This episode is for you if you're a brilliant clinician who still beats yourself up on the drive home, or you've tried every well-meaning phrase about self-care and none of it has stuck. You'll come away knowing the difference between you and your chimp, why five minutes a day beats an hour, and the one piece of advice Steve would give his 23-year-old self. 💬 Know a colleague who could do with hearing this? Send them the episode.
| |||
| We've Regulated the Joy Out of Medicine. Here's How We Get It Back | 21 Sep 2026 | 00:34:25 | |
Most of us have been told that the way to protect standards and patient safety is more structure: tighter curricula, exact numbers, rigid pathways, committing to a specialty by 24 and staying on that line to the end. But what if that's the very thing draining the joy out of being a doctor? What if the rules built to protect standards are quietly lowering them, by burning out capable people and straitjacketing the most able? And what if only a quarter of the recommendations that come out of reviews like this ever actually get done, unless someone deliberately sets out to beat those odds? In this conversation with Dame Jane Dacre, chair of the Medical Education and Training Review, former RCP President and emeritus professor at UCL, we go well beyond the usual "training is broken" conversation. She is independent, not employed by any of the organisations with a stake in the outcome, and has spent a career working out how doctors tick and how to speak truth to power on their behalf. We cover:
This episode is for you if you're a resident weighing certainty against flexibility, an SAS doctor who feels there's no pass for you at the barrier, or a trainer who has watched work-based assessments turn training into a tick-box chore. You'll come away understanding what the review is actually trying to change, why, and where you can influence it. Found this useful? Here's what to do next: 💬 Know a colleague stuck on the Northern Line of their training and wondering how to get off? Send them this episode.
| |||
| The Strengths That Get You Into Medicine Can Break You Once You're In | 07 Sep 2026 | 00:30:54 | |
Most of us have been told that if a doctor is struggling with organisation, communication or exams, the problem is effort, attitude or resilience. But what if the very traits that got them into medical school, the hyper focus, the attention to detail, the sheer persistence, are the same ones that leave them exhausted once the job demands teamwork, small talk and juggling ten things on a ward round? What if the anxiety, the time off and the failed exams you're seeing are the symptom, not the cause? And what if the fix is less about diagnoses and paperwork than about being curious? In this conversation with Dr Emily Muirhead, GP partner of 25 years, GP trainer, coach to resident doctors across Yorkshire and Humber and DoctorsTraining faculty member, Simon Frazer goes beyond the usual "be more inclusive" advice. Emily brings a rare vantage point: she sees neurodivergence from the consulting room, the training room and the coaching room, and she's honest about where the system still lets doctors down. We cover:
This episode is for you if you supervise or work alongside a doctor who is clearly brilliant yet keeps coming unstuck, and you're nervous about saying the wrong thing. It's also for you if you've quietly wondered whether some of these traits describe you. By the end you'll have a clearer sense of what to notice, what to ask, and what you can change tomorrow without waiting for anyone's permission. Found this useful? Here's what to do next: 💬 Know a colleague who "holds it together" at work and is running on empty by the time they get home? Send them this episode.
| |||
| Everything Medicine Taught You About High Performance Is Backwards | 17 Aug 2026 | 00:30:30 | |
Most of us picture high performance as a Formula One pit stop: elite talent, huge resources, everyone flat out. In medicine we've quietly absorbed a version of that, the doctor as superhuman, no lunch, no sleep, just keep going. But what if that model is the very thing burning you out? What if the "high-pressure" environment we're so proud of surviving is actually what stops you performing at all? And what if real high performance starts not with pushing harder, but with admitting you're human first? In this conversation with Susie Muir, a palliative care consultant and qualified coach joining us from Queensland, we go further than the usual well-being chat. Years at the bedside in palliative care gave her an unusually clear read on what actually matters, and on why the surface-level version of wellness makes doctors roll their eyes instead of feel supported. We cover:
This episode is for you if you're good at the job, quietly exhausted by it, and starting to wonder whether the problem is you or the system you're standing in. You'll come away with a different way to define success, and permission to build a career that runs on more than willpower. Found this useful? Here's what to do next: 💬 Know a colleague who's brilliant at the job but quietly running on empty, telling themselves that's just what medicine takes? Send them this episode.
| |||
| Will AI Replace Doctors? You're Asking the Wrong Question | 03 Aug 2026 | 00:28:40 | |
Your inbox is full, you've got reports to write, and you're typing it all one finger at a time. Why Medics Matter, from DoctorsTraining, for time-poor doctors who suspect AI could help but feel behind. Yasmeen Hyatt, an anaesthetics trainee spending her time mastering AI, gives you permission to start small and stay in control: where AI genuinely saves hours, why judgment must always stay yours, and how to use it without ever putting patient data at risk
| |||
| Why Burnout Isn't a Failure of Resilience | 21 Jul 2026 | 00:33:06 | |
Why Medics Matter is DoctorsTraining's podcast for doctors who've been told to just "be more resilient." This week, Dr Claire Ashley author of The Burnout Doctor, now published in eight countries, makes the case that resilience has nothing to do with it, and that some of the most capable doctors are the ones who burn out hardest.
| |||
| The Art of Negotiation | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:25:48 | |
In this episode, Simon and Amie discuss an often overlooked skill for healthcare professionals, influence and negotiation. While technical medical skills are explicitly taught, the art of navigating interpersonal conflict, job planning, and service changes is usually learned the hard way. Simon and Amie explore the pitfalls of traditional negotiation and share strategies for principled negotiation, helping you advocate for yourself and your patients while preserving vital workplace relationships.
| |||
| Do You Have Imposter Syndrome? The 5 Types Affecting Doctors | 15 Jun 2026 | 00:12:14 | |
In this episode of Why Medics Matter, Amie and Simon look further at imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and burnout among medical professionals. Together Amie and Simon break down the five classic types of imposter phenomenon, explore how these traits act as modifiable risk factors for burnout, and discuss why career transitions trigger these feelings the most. Listen to the full interview with Claire Ashley, Season 2 Episode 11.
| |||
| The Perfectionism Trap: Why Imposter Phenomenon Can Lead to Doctor Burnout | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:32:08 | |
Have you ever felt like a fraud at work, or believed that your clinical success was just a stroke of luck? You are not alone alone. In this episode of Why Medics Matter, Simon and Amie are joined by GP, author, and burnout prevention expert Dr. Claire Ashley to discuss imposter syndrome. Discover the five distinct subtypes of imposter syndrome and takeaway some actionable tools that can help. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to Why Medics Matter.
| |||
| How to Embrace Clinical Uncertainty | 18 May 2026 | 00:12:07 | |
In this episode Simon and Amie undertake a candid reflection following their interview with Dr. Jason Hancock. They tackle one of the most challenging yet essential aspects of practicing medicine, managing and embracing clinical uncertainty. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to Why Medics Matter Podcast.
| |||
| Mastering Clinical Uncertainty: Why Curiosity is an Integral Skill for Every Doctor | 04 May 2026 | 00:32:35 | |
In an era of AI and increasing data is clinical uncertainty a thing of the past? Simon and Amie are joined by Dr Jason Hancock, a Consultant Psychiatrist and Director of Medical Education. Together, they explore why uncertainty is not a flaw to be fixed with more tests or AI, but a core clinical skill that must be nurtured.
| |||
| How to Be an Active Bystander: The 4 D’s of Challenging Workplace Harassment | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:11:51 | |
Why do we stay silent when we witness inappropriate behaviour at work? In this episode Simon and Amie look at the psychology of the bystander effect and how it impacts the NHS. They explore the diffusion of responsibility that prevents doctors from acting and provide a practical toolkit for moving from a passive observer to an active upstander.
| |||
| Beyond the Banter: A Doctor’s Guide to Sexual Safety. | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:33:59 | |
"I’ve been a doctor for 20 years, but for the first 15, I’d never heard of sexual safety in the workplace... why are we talking about this now?" In this vital episode, Amie and Simon are joined by Dr. Ellen Knox, Consultant Obstetrician and Associate Postgraduate Dean, to tackle the complex and often "harrowing" reality of sexual misconduct within the NHS. Support Resources & Links
Further reading
Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions of sexual misconduct and harassment. If you have been affected by these issues, please use the resources below or reach out to a trusted colleague.
| |||
| "It Wasn't Like That When I Was a Trainee..." | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:12:55 | |
"It Wasn't Like That When I Was a Trainee..." Have you ever caught yourself saying this on the ward? You’re not alone! Simon and Amie reflect on the generational differences in medicine, how they can create tension, and why mixing these diverse perspectives ultimately builds a complex, beautifully chaotic workplace.
| |||
| Bridging the Gap; Generational Intelligence in Medicine | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:32:36 | |
In this episode of Amie and Simon are joined by Dr. Toni Brunning to explore the fascinating world of Generational Intelligence. Is the generational gap in the NHS a source of unavoidable friction, or an untapped opportunity for better leadership?. We discuss how to co-design education that actually works for Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Support the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe!
| |||
| Let's talk about Shame. | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:13:52 | |
Amie and Simon talk about shame and culture, and the importance of being open and honest and developing compassionate communities. Remember, you matter.
| |||
| Unpacking Shame in Medicine | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:32:50 | |
In this raw and honest episode of Why Medics Matter, we step into the uncomfortable territory of shame in medicine.
| |||
| The Medical Training Review: Phase 1 Diagnostic Report - A Debrief | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:11:25 | |
The first phase of the The Medical Training Review was published in October 2025. Amie and Simon reflect on the review and how things might look for the future of Postgraduate medical training.
| |||
| The Art of Communication | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:35:09 | |
Welcome to Season 2! Simon and Amie are joined by Dr Vijay Nayar to explore one of the most critical skills in medicine, communication. In this episode, they discuss the differences between high-context and low-context cultures, the power of vulnerability at work and share insights on navigating communication challenges faced by doctors who have trained outside the UK.
| |||
| The Best of 2025! | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:17:48 | |
It’s the end of the very first year of Why Medics Matter and to celebrate, Simon and Amie have curated some of their favourite moments from the incredible expert speakers who joined the show throughout 2025. Relax and enjoy some of the standout moments that shaped our first year and look ahead to an exciting 2026.
| |||
| Optimising Your Job Plan | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:13:14 | |
Simon and Amie explore the all important job plan. They reflect on how to negotiate it, optimise it, and build a job plan that works for you. https://www.rcp.ac.uk/improving-care/resources/empowering-physicians-effective-job-planning-for-better-patient-care/
| |||
| Becoming a Consultant: What No One Tells You | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:32:30 | |
The transition to becoming a Consultant or SAS Doctor is one of the biggest steps in a medical career. In this episode, Simon and Amie are joined by Dr Anna Baverstock to explore how best to prepare for this change. Together, they reflect on the challenges, surprises, and strategies that can help make the move from resident doctor to an autonomous practitioner.
| |||
| Do you know the difference between specialty and specialist SAS roles? | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:10:17 | |
Simon and Amie reflect on the importance of autonomy and identity for SAS doctors. We discuss how labels can empower and limit us and how autonomy and recognition are central to professional identity.
| |||
| Celebrating SAS Doctors - The unsung heroes of Medicine | 06 Oct 2025 | 00:33:46 | |
It’s SAS Week, and Simon and Amie are joined by Dr Swetha Maddula Batambuze, SAS Chair at the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. Together, they reflect on the highs and lows of being a SAS doctor, highlighting the challenges, opportunities, and reasons to celebrate this vital group of clinicians.
| |||
| Improving Resident Doctor's Working Lives | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:16:08 | |
On the 29th August, NHS England published the 10 Point Plan to improve resident doctors’ working lives. Simon and Amie discuss the ten points and ask "Does it go far enough"?
| |||
| What makes an effective educator and supervisor? | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:29:43 | |
In this episode, Professor Namita Kumar, Rheumatologist and Postgraduate Dean for North East England and North Cumbria, shares practical tips on becoming a supportive, inspiring and skilled supervisor. We also explore the challenges facing medical education today and how we can all play a role in shaping its future.
| |||
| Learning to Say No | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:13:12 | |
Why do we find it so difficult to say no? Amie and Simon discuss the power of saying no and provide useful tips to help with those difficult conversations we all have.
| |||
| Setting Boundaries in Medicine | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:27:28 | |
Boundaries in medicine are vital for our mental fitness. In this episode, Simon and Toni reflect on the increasingly blurred lines between work and home life, and ask the important question: Should doctors be in work WhatsApp groups? Toni shares three practical tips to help maintain boundaries; 1. Recognise when boundaries are needed 2. Set the boundary 3. Maintain those boundaries with confidence and consistency If you are constantly checking your phone, looking at work WhatsApp groups, this episode is for you.
| |||
| Coaching: More Than Just a Conversation | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:13:02 | |
In this episode, Amie and Simon dive into the transformative power of coaching and the surprising ways it can elevate your career. From the art of active listening to unlocking potential through meaningful conversations, they explore why coaching isn't just helpful, but essential. Whether you're just starting out or decades into your journey, coaching has something to offer. Learn more at www.doctorstraining.com
| |||
| Coaching for doctors | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:45:59 | |
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between coaching and mentoring? Simon is joined by Dr Susy Stirling, an Associate Dean in Yorkshire and Humber and a Coach. The benefits of coaching in resident doctors are discussed and as ever we share our personal stories and how coaching has impacted our lives.
| |||
| Valuing Educators | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:16:13 | |
In this episode, Simon and Toni have an honest conversation about what it really means to feel valued as an educator. They share stories from their own journeys, reflect on why recognition matters, and talk about the quiet work so many doctors do to support others, often without acknowledgement.
| |||
| Inspiring Leadership: Shaping the Future of Medical Education | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:42:45 | |
Great leadership starts in education. In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Jo Szram to explore how we can grow the next generation of medical leaders — starting with how we teach, support, and inspire today’s doctors. Together, we reflect on the pivotal role education plays in shaping the future of healthcare.
| |||
| Mental Fitness - Stop Weaponising Resilience | 19 May 2025 | 00:15:32 | |
In this conversation, Amie and Simon unpack the idea of ‘resilience’ — and why it’s time to stop using it as a weapon. We explore how building true mental fitness can create a healthier, more sustainable career in medicine.
| |||
| Doctors as Humans, not Heroes | 05 May 2025 | 00:32:33 | |
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Jess Morgan, paediatrician and mental health advocate, to explore why it’s time to move beyond the ‘hero’ narrative in medicine. Together, we talk about vulnerability, authenticity, and what it really means to be human in a healing profession.
| |||
| Dissecting Professional Identity | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:14:49 | |
Have you ever made a medical error? Join Simon and Amie as we reflect on what making an error can do to our professional identity. For additional resources and more information, visit http://www.doctorstraining.com.
| |||
| Unlocking the potential of the SAS Grade | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:34:59 | |
Simon and Amie return for another insightful episode, joined by our special guest, Dr Jamie Read—Dean of Lincoln Medical School and an experienced SAS Doctor. In our conversation, Jamie shares the journey of his medical career, offering candid insights into his experiences as a SAS doctor, his pathway to becoming Dean, and the stigma he's encountered along the way. We also dive into important discussions about shame, dealing with medical errors, and embracing vulnerability within the profession. For additional resources and more information, visit http://www.doctorstraining.com.
| |||
| Dissecting Emotional Intelligence | 17 Mar 2025 | 00:13:24 | |
Join us as we explore emotional intelligence and its vital role in personal and professional success. Learn to recognise, understand, and manage emotions to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and lead with empathy.
| |||
| Demystifying Leadership in Healthcare | 03 Mar 2025 | 00:33:48 | |
Explore the key skills and strategies needed in healthcare leadership with Dr Yvette Oade MBE. Yvette shares her leadership journey and provides actionable insights for professionals at every level.
| |||
| Dissecting Difficult Conversations | 17 Feb 2025 | 00:13:44 | |
Join Amie and Simon as they dissect the critical elements of difficult conversations, offering clarity and confidence to transform confrontation into collaboration.
| |||
| Demystifying Difficult Conversations | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:37:04 | |
Dive deep into the art of tough talks with Dr Anna Baverstock. Discover tools and insights that turn daunting conversations into opportunities for growth and connection.
| |||
| Why Medics Matter: Trailer | 21 Jan 2025 | 00:01:49 | |
Give us a couple of minutes and we'll fill you in on what Why Medics Matter is all about - listen to our short trailer for an insight into the podcast, who it's for, and what's covered in episodes.
| |||