Heart of Care

AMCU

🎧 Heart of Care  A podcast by AMCU Media Heart of Care is a storytelling and conversation podcast that explores the lived realities behind Australia’s health, welfare, and social systems — through the eyes of those navigating them every day. Hosted by John from AMCU Media, each episode shares heartfelt stories, policy insights, and personal reflections on what it truly means to care — whether as a healthcare worker, a parent, a patient, or a citizen. From overworked families to underfunded clinics, delayed mental health support to the quiet dignity lost in welfare queues, Heart of Care brings voice to the untold human stories behind the statistics — and asks the tough questions that matter. Because behind every number is a name. Behind every policy is a person. And it’s time we truly listened. 💌 Want to share your story or contribute to a future episode? Email us at amcu@strmedical.com.au 📅 New episodes released monthly. As a small, independent team, occasional delays may occur — and we’re grateful for your ongoing support and patience. Your encouragement keeps us going. 🎙️ Podcast Disclaimer Heart of Care is a production of AMCU Media (Australian Medical Community Union). This podcast is created for educational, informational, and advocacy purposes only. The views expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent those of AMCU Media, affiliated professionals, or partner organizations. While we strive for accuracy and respect, we do not guarantee the completeness or correctness of any statements made in this podcast. This podcast may discuss sensitive topics, including mental health, medical issues, social injustice, or personal trauma. Listener discretion is advised. Nothing in this podcast should be considered medical, legal, financial, or psychological advice.  Please seek guidance from qualified professionals for advice relevant to your circumstances. By listening to Heart of Care, you agree that AMCU Media and its creators bear no liability for any outcomes resulting from your use of or reliance on the content provided.

  1. JAN 27

    Heart of Care, Season 2, Episode 1 - "The Weight We Share"

    email to amcu@strmedical.com.au 🟠 Series: Heart of Care – Season 2 🎧 Episode 1: The Weight We Share 🎙️ Host: Laura 👤 Guest: Jessica Description: What does it really cost to raise children in Australia today? In this powerful Season 2 opener of Heart of Care, we sit down with Jessica — a working mum of two with a household income many would envy. But once tax and childcare are taken out, she’s left with less than half. Through Jessica’s story, we unpack the hidden pressures working families face — and why the system so often punishes those trying to do the right thing. From spiralling childcare fees to the welfare cliffs that disincentivise working more, this episode explores how Australia’s tax and subsidy system is pushing families to the brink — and what we can learn from countries doing it better. If you’ve ever looked at your payslip and wondered “where did it all go?”, this episode is for you. Raising children is not a private luxury — it’s public work. And if we want a stronger future, we must do better to support those building it. 📢 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear it. Because this isn’t just Jessica’s story — it’s a story shared by families across the country. We can do better. Presented by AMCU Media. 🎙️ Postroll Script – AMCU Media Thanks for tuning in to this episode from AMCU Media — where real stories, healthcare, and advocacy come together. We release a new episode on the 28th of every month. We're a small, independent team doing our best to bring you meaningful conversations — and your support means the world to us. 🎧 Listen to our podcast on: Buzzsprout | Apple Podcasts | Spotify — just search AMCU Media 📺 Subscribe tSupport the show

    15 min
  2. 12/27/2025

    Heart of Care, Episode 11 "When Boundaries Blur"

    email to amcu@strmedical.com.au 🎙️ Heart of Care – Episode 11 Title: When Boundaries Blur: Fighting for Your Patient in a Flawed System Series: The Unseen Hurdles: Empathy, Ethics, and The Everyday Doctor In this powerful final episode of the year, Dr. Evan Hope returns to share a deeply troubling experience that exposes the invisible battles GPs face when systemic dysfunction obstructs patient care. The story centres around a vulnerable woman with pseudocyesis—a psychological condition where a person believes they are pregnant—whose medically necessary ultrasound was unilaterally cancelled by a hospital sonographer following inappropriate interference from the Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Through this case, Dr. Evan unpacks the ethical breaches, professional boundary violations, and bureaucratic overreach that too often hinder timely care—especially for patients without the means to go private. He describes the exhausting process of pushing back against hierarchy, confronting systemic injustice, and ultimately ensuring his patient received the care she needed. This episode is a raw, honest reflection on what it truly means to advocate for patients—not just medically, but ethically and institutionally. It also closes with a heartfelt thank you to our listeners, contributors, and team as we wrap up our first year of Heart of Care. 🎙️ Postroll Script – AMCU Media Thanks for tuning in to this episode from AMCU Media — where real stories, healthcare, and advocacy come together. We release a new episode on the 28th of every month. We're a small, independent team doing our best to bring you meaningful conversations — and your support means the world to us. 🎧 Listen to our podcast on: Buzzsprout | Apple Podcasts | Spotify — just search AMCU Media 📺 Subscribe tSupport the show

    18 min
  3. 11/27/2025

    Heart of Care, Episode 10 "The Unseen Hurdles: Empathy, Ethics, and The Everyday Doctor"

    email to amcu@strmedical.com.au 🎙️ Heart of Care – Episode 10 Title: When the Curtain Falls: What Happens After the Mistake In this milestone tenth episode of Heart of Care, we confront one of the most feared yet inevitable aspects of medicine: human error. Dr. Evan Hope returns to reflect on the emotional aftermath of a clinical decision that led to public criticism, professional shame, and personal reckoning. We revisit the case of a child whose early signs of Type 1 Diabetes were subtle and nonspecific—missed in the moment but caught in hindsight. Dr. Hope walks us through the ripple effect of that day: the judgment from colleagues, the impact on his referrals, the breakdown in trust, and the long path to healing. We also hear about the everyday moments—like asking for a urine sample, negotiating a scared child’s resistance, and leaning on family—that reveal the quiet complexity and humanity of general practice. This episode is a raw, honest portrait of what it means to continue showing up for patients even after your confidence is shaken. It's a tribute to vulnerability, recovery, and the power of professional solidarity and self-forgiveness. 🎙️ Postroll Script – AMCU Media Thanks for tuning in to this episode from AMCU Media — where real stories, healthcare, and advocacy come together. We release a new episode on the 28th of every month. We're a small, independent team doing our best to bring you meaningful conversations — and your support means the world to us. 🎧 Listen to our podcast on: Buzzsprout | Apple Podcasts | Spotify — just search AMCU Media 📺 Subscribe tSupport the show

    17 min
  4. 10/27/2025

    Heart of Care, Episode 9 “We are all Guests”

    email to amcu@strmedical.com.au 🎧 Episode 9 – We Are All Guests: Rethinking Migration in Australia Podcast Series: Heart of Care Episode Description: In this powerful episode, host John explores one of Australia’s most polarising and deeply personal topics — migration. But instead of political spin, we take a step back to uncover the truths, myths, and missed opportunities in our national story. From humanity’s ancient migrations to today’s visa gridlocks, from the legacy of colonisation to the contribution of migrant workers — we dive into the real challenges behind labour shortages, systemic inequities, and the misplaced blame placed on those simply seeking a better life. Highlights include: Why “job-stealing migrants” is a myth that hurts us allHow our labour system fails both employers and jobseekersThe economic and cultural wealth migrants bring to AustraliaThe deeper meaning of belonging — for both newcomers and First Nations peopleA call for policies rooted in justice, vision, and shared humanityAustralia is not full — it’s under-imagined. Let’s reframe the conversation, rethink our responsibilities, and rediscover our shared future — together. 👉 Subscribe to Heart of Care and share this episode to spark the change we all need to see. #MigrationMatters #HeartOfCare #WeAreAllGuests #FairGoForAll 🎙️ Postroll Script – AMCU Media Thanks for tuning in to this episode from AMCU Media — where real stories, healthcare, and advocacy come together. We release a new episode on the 28th of every month. We're a small, independent team doing our best to bring you meaningful conversations — and your support means the world to us. 🎧 Listen to our podcast on: Buzzsprout | Apple Podcasts | Spotify — just search AMCU Media 📺 Subscribe tSupport the show

    15 min
  5. 09/27/2025

    Heart of Care, Episode 8 "Who Own Your Money"

    email to amcu@strmedical.com.au 🎧 Podcast Summary – Heart of Care, Episode 8: Who Own Your Money In this powerful and eye-opening episode of Heart of Care, hosts John and Laura pull back the curtain on a topic that affects every Australian: financial freedom in an age of increasing surveillance and control. From the emotional story of Sarah—a nurse blocked from withdrawing her own savings—to the broader implications of bank monitoring, algorithmic risk scoring, disappearing ATMs, and restrictions on cryptocurrency, this episode traces how our financial systems are subtly shifting from service to scrutiny. Key Segments: “They Say It’s About Safety. But It’s Really About Control.” Learn how 'fraud prevention' is being used to justify intrusive oversight and limit your access to your own money.“Your Bank Is Not Just a Bank—It’s a Surveillance Hub.” Discover how every tap, transfer, and transaction is tracked, scored, and shared—with or without your consent.“The War on Cash: A War on Autonomy.” Explore why the decline of physical currency is more than a convenience issue—it's about the erosion of financial independence.“Crypto = Independence. And That’s the Problem.” Understand why banks are cracking down on crypto and how decentralised assets threaten the established financial order.“You Don’t Own Your Money. You Rent It.” A provocative look at how conditional access to funds undermines the very idea of ownership.“What Can You Do?” John and Laura share practical tools to fight back: from knowing your rights and escalating complaints, to engaging AFCA and ASIC, and raising public awareness.Why You Should Listen: This isn’t just a podcast about money—it’s about control, dignity, and your right to financial freedom. Whether you're a cautious saver, a digital investor, or someone just trying to travel freely, this episode will leave you questioning: Do I really own my money? 🎙️ Hosted by Laura and John | Produced by AMCU Media 📢 Follow, share, and stay financially aware. Your vigilance is your power. 🎙️ Postroll Script – AMCU Media Thanks for tuning in to this episode from AMCU Media — where real stories, healthcare, and advocacy come together. We release a new episode on the 28th of every month. We're a small, independent team doing our best to bring you meaningful conversations — and your support means the world to us. 🎧 Listen to our podcast on: Buzzsprout | Apple Podcasts | Spotify — just search AMCU Media 📺 Subscribe tSupport the show

    19 min
  6. 08/27/2025

    Heart of Care, Episode 7 "Hate Speech and Polarization: When Care Becomes the Target"

    email to amcu@strmedical.com.au 🎙️ Episode 7 – Hate Speech and Polarization: When Care Becomes the Target In this powerful episode of Heart of Care, host Laura from AMCU unpacks the quiet crisis beneath today’s public discourse — a rising tide of hostility aimed not just at ideas, but at the people who dare to care. From online vitriol to media-fueled cynicism, we explore how professionals like doctors, teachers, and advocates have become targets of projection, envy, and mistrust. Why is it that in times of frustration, the public often turns its anger not toward power, but toward the visible – the almost-fortunate? What toll does this take on those trying to make a difference? With deeply moving real-life stories and reflections on psychology, politics, and public culture, this episode exposes the hidden cost of visibility and the erosion of empathy in a world that mistakes care for performance and kindness for weakness. 💬 Featuring insights into: Why disagreement increasingly feels like dangerThe emotional toll of being publicly visibleHow cynicism replaces conversation in healthcare and beyondThe story behind a doctor’s quiet act of resistance — and the backlash that followed🎧 A timely call to protect the space for empathy, advocacy, and integrity — even when the world makes it harder to stand up and speak out. #HeartOfCare #AMCU #CareNotCruelty #HealthAdvocacy #PublicDiscourse #Podcast 🎙️ Postroll Script – AMCU Media Thanks for tuning in to this episode from AMCU Media — where real stories, healthcare, and advocacy come together. We release a new episode on the 28th of every month. We're a small, independent team doing our best to bring you meaningful conversations — and your support means the world to us. 🎧 Listen to our podcast on: Buzzsprout | Apple Podcasts | Spotify — just search AMCU Media 📺 Subscribe tSupport the show

    17 min
  7. 07/27/2025

    Heart of Care, Episode 6 “The Systemic Destruction of Morality, Education, and Empathy — A Burmese Reflection”

    email to amcu@strmedical.com.au 🎙 Podcast Summary Title: The Systemic Destruction of Morality, Education, and Empathy — A Burmese Reflection Series: Heart of Care – Episode 6 Host: Dr. Evan Hope / AMCU Media Summary: This powerful episode explores how authoritarianism, war, and corruption have eroded the moral and emotional foundation of an entire society. Using the story of post-coup Myanmar as a case study, the episode highlights the collapse of key social pillars—education, empathy, and ethics—and how these are not just side effects of dictatorship, but deliberate strategies to destroy hope and humanity. The host reflects on the lived experiences of Burmese families, especially children growing up without schooling, safety, or stable adult role models. It contrasts Myanmar’s broken system with the fraying edges of morality in the West, warning that when education is commodified, morality politicized, and empathy ridiculed, the consequences are global. Listeners are invited to consider: What happens when a generation grows up in survival mode?What does it mean when teachers, doctors, and truth-tellers are punished?How do we rebuild empathy and care after they’ve been systematically erased?This episode is a call to action—for reflection, for storytelling, and for protecting the fragile thread of care in every society. 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes that speak to the soul of society: care, courage, and connection. 🎙️ Postroll Script – AMCU Media Thanks for tuning in to this episode from AMCU Media — where real stories, healthcare, and advocacy come together. We release a new episode on the 28th of every month. We're a small, independent team doing our best to bring you meaningful conversations — and your support means the world to us. 🎧 Listen to our podcast on: Buzzsprout | Apple Podcasts | Spotify — just search AMCU Media 📺 Subscribe tSupport the show

    12 min
  8. 06/27/2025

    Heart of Care, Episode 5 "Working for a family of Four BUT taxed Like Two Rich Couple"

    email to amcu@strmedical.com.au Why does it feel like the harder you work, the less you keep? In this episode of Heart of Care, John from AMCU sits down with Angela—a full-time working mother  They discuss: How half of Angela’s income disappears before she sees itWhy a $10,000 raise added just $1,800 to her pocketThe “welfare cliff” that punishes ambitionHow corporate structures legally minimise tax while working families carry the burdenThe emotional cost of trying to “do it all” and still feeling behindAnd here’s the truth: every child comes with essential costs — not luxury spending, but the basics of life and development. Raising children is not just private care work — it's the foundation of our society and economy. Families should receive tax-free income entitlements tied to each child — because parenting is economic contribution. It's time our tax system recognised that with real support, not silent penalties. This isn’t a complaint—it’s a wake-up call.  Because when working families are pushed to breaking point, the whole system suffers. Share this episode. Use the hashtag #LunchboxTaxRevolt. 📢 Let’s demand a system that rewards care, not punishes contribution. Thank you for your support! At Heart of Care, we aim to deliver a new episode every month. As we’re a small, independent team, there may occasionally be delays — and we truly appreciate your patience and understanding. Your encouragement keeps us going. Stay tuned, more heartfelt conversations are on the way. 🎙️ Postroll Script – AMCU Media Thanks for tuning in to this episode from AMCU Media — where real stories, healthcare, and advocacy come together. We release a new episode on the 28th of every month. We're a small, independent team doing our best to bring you meaningful conversations — and your support means the world to us. 🎧 Listen to our podcast on: Buzzsprout | Apple Podcasts | Spotify — just search AMCU Media 📺 Subscribe tSupport the show

    14 min

About

🎧 Heart of Care  A podcast by AMCU Media Heart of Care is a storytelling and conversation podcast that explores the lived realities behind Australia’s health, welfare, and social systems — through the eyes of those navigating them every day. Hosted by John from AMCU Media, each episode shares heartfelt stories, policy insights, and personal reflections on what it truly means to care — whether as a healthcare worker, a parent, a patient, or a citizen. From overworked families to underfunded clinics, delayed mental health support to the quiet dignity lost in welfare queues, Heart of Care brings voice to the untold human stories behind the statistics — and asks the tough questions that matter. Because behind every number is a name. Behind every policy is a person. And it’s time we truly listened. 💌 Want to share your story or contribute to a future episode? Email us at amcu@strmedical.com.au 📅 New episodes released monthly. As a small, independent team, occasional delays may occur — and we’re grateful for your ongoing support and patience. Your encouragement keeps us going. 🎙️ Podcast Disclaimer Heart of Care is a production of AMCU Media (Australian Medical Community Union). This podcast is created for educational, informational, and advocacy purposes only. The views expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent those of AMCU Media, affiliated professionals, or partner organizations. While we strive for accuracy and respect, we do not guarantee the completeness or correctness of any statements made in this podcast. This podcast may discuss sensitive topics, including mental health, medical issues, social injustice, or personal trauma. Listener discretion is advised. Nothing in this podcast should be considered medical, legal, financial, or psychological advice.  Please seek guidance from qualified professionals for advice relevant to your circumstances. By listening to Heart of Care, you agree that AMCU Media and its creators bear no liability for any outcomes resulting from your use of or reliance on the content provided.