Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson

Sharee Johnson

This is Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, where you’ll hear healthcare professionals and others sharing their stories of recalibrating life when the unexpected happened. I'm your host Sharee Johnson, psychologist coach, meditation teacher, author and mother. As a psychologist and coach I've been listening deeply to people’s stories in therapy and coaching for 35 years. I've come to believe two things about people. The first is, having witnessed so many incredible stories of hope, adaptability and human capacity, I truly believe that we are ALL capable of so much more than we think we are. In times of challenge humans have demonstrated that, over and over again. Here on the Recalibrating podcast you will get to hear amazing stories of healthcare professionals and others pivoting, overcoming, and recalibrating their lives. The second thing the research and my experiences as a psychologist have shown me, is that humans need other people, when we have support around us, when we tell each other our stories, when we connect through the reality of living our lives, we do much better than when we pull back and hide what’s really going on for us. On this podcast we are going to unearth and amplify what helps us as humans, individually and collectively to recalibrate in ways that help us change, grow, even surprise ourselves when life throws us a curve ball. We want to talk about the value of change in our lives. This podcast offers healthcare professionals the chance to be inspired and encouraged to meet the unexpected in their life with grace, skills and a belief in their own human capacity. Life is full of opportunities to recalibrate, with the right mindset, the right resources, the right community. Thank you for adding your voice to the conversation, for sharing your stories with us. Sharee Johnson

  1. EPISODE 13: Dr. Eric Levi – Purpose, Humanity, and Recalibrating Your Role in Medicine

    4d ago

    EPISODE 13: Dr. Eric Levi – Purpose, Humanity, and Recalibrating Your Role in Medicine

    EPISODE 2: Dr. Eric Levi – Purpose, Humanity, and Recalibrating Your Role in Medicine EPISODE DESCRIPTION:What sustains you when the demands of medicine seem relentless—and how do you keep realigning with meaning through seasons of change?In this inspiring conversation, Sharee Johnson welcomes Dr. Eric Levi—academic otolaryngologist, head and neck surgeon, educator, leader, and advocate for wellbeing in medicine. Together, they explore recalibrating identity, working with uncertainty, the hidden costs and rewards of a life in surgery, and why finding joy in medicine is often a side effect of purposeful work and community.If you've ever wondered how senior clinicians reckon with regrets, tough transitions, work-life tensions, and the ongoing human journey behind the mask of expertise—this is your invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with your “why.” SHOW NOTES: “Joy is the secondary side effect of purpose…What I’m looking for is not—I don’t necessarily come to work wanting to be happy. I want to be useful. And when I feel that I’m being useful, that’s when I get the joy.” — Dr. Eric Levi 32:26 Key Takeaways: Purpose anchors resilience: Recalibrating involves clarifying your sense of purpose, especially through transitions, setbacks, or routine pressures (32:26). Identity evolves: Expect—and welcome—detours in training, specialty, or personal life. Let your ‘why’ guide recalibration, not just external demands (06:33, 16:32). Wellbeing is relational: Seek out mentorship, build community, and remember you’re not alone in the challenges or emotional toll of clinical life (09:01, 41:45). The art of leadership is everyday kindness: Small moments of connection (like offering coffee or asking a colleague about their day) foster trust, psychological safety, and teamwork in high-pressure settings (33:15). Work-life regrets are real: Even seasoned consultants contend with sacrifices and shifting priorities. Honest conversations about regret open space for authenticity and healing (27:03). Educational and systemic curiosity matter: Pursuing broad learning—including administration, public health, and understanding systems—can empower clinicians to bridge gaps and foster change (10:35). Meaning and “soul” still matter in medicine: Joy, sustainability, and impact are grounded in community, narrative, and connection with something greater than the daily grind (50:42, 53:07). Resources Mentioned: Operating with Respect – The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons’ program to address workplace culture and hierarchy (62:42) Book Recommendation: Barack Obama’s memoir (referred to for leadership and the myth of control 24:53) Social Media for Clinicians: Dr. Eric Levi reflects on responsible, purpose-driven physician education online, including practical tips for professional boundaries (43:01) Wellbeing Advocacy and Talks: Dr. Eric Levi speaks and writes on the wellbeing of surgeons and clinicians; follow him for practical insights on the human side of medical work. 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!

    1h 13m
  2. EPISODE 12: Dr. Kieran Allen – Beyond the Binary: Mental Health, Vulnerability, and Systems Change

    May 25

    EPISODE 12: Dr. Kieran Allen – Beyond the Binary: Mental Health, Vulnerability, and Systems Change

    EPISODE 12 Dr. Kieran Allen – Beyond the Binary: Mental Health, Vulnerability, and Systems Change   EPISODE DESCRIPTION: What if the real strength in medicine lies in our openness—not just to healing others, but to revealing our own struggles?Dr. Kieran Allen—doctor, psychiatry trainee, advocate, and storyteller who shares his lived experience of navigating mental illness while working as a clinician, in this thoughtful conversation. Together, Kieran and Sharee challenge the myth that doctors must be invulnerable and unpack how embracing vulnerability, disrupting stigma, and reimagining professional identity can transform systems of care for clinicians and patients alike. This episode is a compelling look at the complexity of recovery, support networks, and reframing the "hero's journey" in healthcare. Dr. Kieran Allen’s honesty will inspire reflection on what it means to be seen, valued, healing and human. SHOW NOTES: “These binaries are harmful, I think, and to get away from those is critical.” — Dr. Kieran Allen Key Takeaways: The myth of the doctor-patient binary: Mental illness affects everyone, including doctors. Recovery is not linear; healing journeys are unique, complex, and deserve systemic support—not just individual resilience. Deep trust and ongoing support networks (personal and professional) are critical to wellbeing and recalibration. Vulnerability is not weakness; sharing our stories can rehumanize medicine and create cultures where suffering is acknowledged, not hidden. Stigma is often unconscious—acknowledging and addressing it is a responsibility for all healthcare providers. Supervision, mentoring, and reflective practice are vital at every training and career stage, not just in crisis. True compassion—in medicine and leadership—requires presence, empathy, and the courage to advocate for systemic change. Individual and system recalibration go hand-in-hand; both are needed to prevent burnout and moral injury. Resources Mentioned: Internal Family Systems (IFS): Therapy model referenced by Dr. Kieran Allen for understanding identity, self-compassion, and recalibration. See No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz. Stories & Advocacy: Geoff Toogood and Crazy Socks for Docs—on clinician suicide awareness and lived experience. Steve Robson—AMA past president’s writings on suicidality. https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Dr. Ben Bravery—author of The Patient Doctor, sharing insights from dual lived experience as cancer survivor and doctor. Recalibrate Doctor Care Program: Ongoing support for wellbeing and recalibration in medical practice. The Harvard Study of Adult Development: Longitudinal study highlighting the crucial role of close, trusting relationships in wellbeing. Book Recommendation: No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz 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!

    1h 17m
  3. EPISODE 11: Victoria Lister - Speaking Up, Silencing, and Navigating the Medical Profession

    May 18

    EPISODE 11: Victoria Lister - Speaking Up, Silencing, and Navigating the Medical Profession

    EPISODE 12: Victoria Lister – Speaking Up, Silencing, and Navigating the Medical Profession EPISODE DESCRIPTION:What happens when the structure meant to protect and elevate you ends up holding you back?In this episode of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, Sharee Johnson is joined by Victoria Lister—researcher, workplace coach, academic, and entrepreneur—to discuss the culture of silence among junior doctors, the hidden “rules” of elite professions, and the toll these unspoken expectations take on wellbeing and voice.A candid, insightful exploration of hierarchy, adaptability, recalibration, and why creating spaces for truth-telling matters for both carers and the cared-for in healthcare. SHOW NOTES:“Speak up, don’t speak up, because the clear message is you’re not to speak up about your own working conditions.” — Victoria Lister   Key Takeaways: The path to becoming a doctor is often tightly prescribed and hierarchical, but successful, fulfilling careers can follow nonlinear, adaptive routes. Silence about working conditions is even more pervasive and entrenched than silence about patient safety for junior doctors. Powerful occupational forces—hierarchy, competition, implicit rules—shape who feels safe to speak and when. Senior doctors and leaders hold the key to shifting culture and creating “pockets of enlightened leadership” where voice is possible. Cost–benefit calculations, fear of repercussions, and the myth of self-sacrifice drive much of the ongoing silence. Awareness, psychological safety, and career adaptability are tools for recalibrating both workplace and personal wellbeing. Medicine, like many professions, is shaped over centuries—meaning change is slow, but possible, with collective attention and courage.   Resources & Links Mentioned: Research on employee voice and silence in healthcare (to be published by Victoria Lister) Modern Hippocratic Oath and practitioner wellbeing:   Modern “Hippocratic oath” and physician wellbeing.  The World Medical Association Declaration of Geneva 2017 specifically includes a commitment from the doctor to actively take care of their own well being, in recognition of it having a direct impact on patient care.  The statement is part of a longer statement that can be found at the link below.   “...I WILL ATTEND TO my own health, well-being, and abilities in order to provide care of the highest standard;..." https://www.wma.net/policies-post/wma-declaration-of-geneva/ Recommended reading: Generational perspectives on medicine and working conditions Hummingbird Pie – Victoria Lister’s side hustle in activewear: Hummingbird Pie https://www.researchgate.net/publication/272191403_Contested_professional_role_boundaries_in_health_care_A_systematic_review_of_the_literature https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323433366_Failing_to_retain_a_new_generation_of_doctors_Qualitative_insights_from_a_high-income_country 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!

    1h 11m
  4. EPISODE 10: Rebecca Clarke – From Emergency Nursing to Systems Change Agent: Recalibrating Through Challenge, Data, and Community

    May 11

    EPISODE 10: Rebecca Clarke – From Emergency Nursing to Systems Change Agent: Recalibrating Through Challenge, Data, and Community

    EPISODE 9: Rebecca Clarke – From Emergency Nursing to Systems Change Agent: Recalibrating Through Challenge, Data, and Community EPISODE DESCRIPTION:What does it take to recalibrate—again and again—through crisis, loss, and shifting career landscapes in healthcare?In this compelling episode of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, Sharee Johnson is joined by Rebecca Clarke: emergency nurse, public health leader, and now Head of Transformation and Community at Beamtree and Health Roundtable. Rebecca Clarke shares her journey from busy emergency departments and remote Aboriginal communities, to navigating profound personal loss, driving change that focuses on staff wellbeing, and leveraging “big data” for system-wide improvement.A powerful conversation about courage, vulnerability, the importance of community, and finding agency and hope—even when life throws its toughest curveballs. SHOW NOTES: "There is beauty in all things, whether it presents a challenge or it's a little bit bad." — Rebecca Clarke Key Takeaways: Recalibration is ongoing—your career and self will shift over time; listening to your body and values matters. Personal loss and adversity can catalyze deep questioning and meaningful systems change. Finding trusted allies and building supportive communities amplifies your impact and resilience. Data, when paired with story, becomes a powerful tool for driving positive change in healthcare. Leadership, vulnerability, and honesty are essential—both in clinical care and management. Role models, mindfulness, and connection to land/grounding practices nurture wellbeing. Resources Mentioned: Health Roundtable: A trans-Tasman nonprofit focused on healthcare data analytics and innovative service improvement. Schwartz Rounds: Facilitated forums for multidisciplinary staff to reflect on the emotional aspects of healthcare work.  Book: Why Warriors Lie Down and Die by Richard Trudgen – reflections on colonization and connection in Aboriginal communities. Wellbeing Index: A tool for measuring staff wellbeing across healthcare organizations. Vipassana Meditation: An intensive self-awareness practice influential in Rebecca Clarke’s personal and professional life. Adventure Racing: Rebecca Clarke shares how this extreme sport fostered resilience and leveraged her clinical skills outside traditional settings. Our theme music is “Caribbean” by Zambolino, sourced from FreeToUse.com/music/zambolino/caribbean. Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any entity they work with or for. Connect and Subscribe:Enjoyed this conversation? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share with colleagues or friends seeking inspiration for recalibrating and growing in healthcare. Stay tuned for more transformative stories and insights on Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson!

    1h 15m
  5. EPISODE 9: Duncan Brown – Grief, Systems, and the Power of Recalibration

    May 4

    EPISODE 9: Duncan Brown – Grief, Systems, and the Power of Recalibration

    EPISODE 9: Duncan Brown – Grief, Systems, and the Power of Recalibration   EPISODE DESCRIPTION: What happens when personal tragedy and systemic failures intersect—and inspire a deeper search for meaning and change?In this moving and thought-provoking episode of Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, Sharee is joined by Duncan Brown: researcher, organizational culture expert, and bereaved parent. Duncan shares his extraordinary journey through migration, shifting careers, devastating loss, and his quest to improve patient safety and care environments in healthcare. Together, they discuss the profound impact of cultural and systemic conditions on wellbeing—both for patients and healthcare workers. Duncan explores the balance between satisfaction and frustration at work, why kindness and resilience alone are not enough, and how real change requires attention to both individual and systemic needs. This conversation is a powerful call for compassion, systemic listening, and recalibrating what really matters in healthcare and beyond.   SHOW NOTES: “I'm a fundamentally different person to what I was before Kuan. And I think I’m a better person because I can connect with people at a much deeper level. There is no human emotion that frightens me anymore.” — Duncan Brown   Key Takeaways: Humans can hold both deep satisfaction and profound frustration at work—these emotions can coexist and drive different behaviours. Systemic change in healthcare needs more than individual resilience; it requires collective and environmental shifts. Grief can be transformed into advocacy, purpose, and legacy—real change honors lived experience. Support systems—at work and at home—are essential to navigating life’s biggest recalibrations. Psychological safety, trust, and “prosocial” frameworks help teams confront and adapt to complex challenges. Raising sepsis awareness and patient advocacy are urgent for improving safety and outcomes.   Resources Mentioned: ProSocial World and the work of Paul Atkins—on conscious cultural evolution and group collaboration. Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan)—on autonomy, competence, and relatedness in human motivation. Black Box Thinking by Matthew Syed—on learning from failure in healthcare versus aviation. Amy Edmondson’s work on psychological safety and “intelligent failure.” Global Sepsis Alliance and Sepsis Australia—for support and information on sepsis advocacy. Further Reflection: How can you recalibrate when facing both personal and systemic adversity? What psychological needs of your team are being met—and which are being frustrated? How can compassion, learning, and collective action lead to safer, more humane healthcare? 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!

    1h 21m
  6. EPISODE 8: Dr. Lynn Scoles – Agency, Energy, and Courage, Coaching Beyond the Clinic  

    Apr 27

    EPISODE 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. Connect and Subscribe: 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
  7. EPISODE 7: Dr. Ashok Bhattacharya – Build your life, work is one part of it.

    Apr 20

    EPISODE 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. __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!

    1h 13m
  8. EPISODE 6: Dr. Brian Lee – Social Support, Systemic Change, and Family Wellbeing in Healthcare

    Apr 13

    EPISODE 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. __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!

    1h 2m

About

This is Recalibrating with Sharee Johnson, where you’ll hear healthcare professionals and others sharing their stories of recalibrating life when the unexpected happened. I'm your host Sharee Johnson, psychologist coach, meditation teacher, author and mother. As a psychologist and coach I've been listening deeply to people’s stories in therapy and coaching for 35 years. I've come to believe two things about people. The first is, having witnessed so many incredible stories of hope, adaptability and human capacity, I truly believe that we are ALL capable of so much more than we think we are. In times of challenge humans have demonstrated that, over and over again. Here on the Recalibrating podcast you will get to hear amazing stories of healthcare professionals and others pivoting, overcoming, and recalibrating their lives. The second thing the research and my experiences as a psychologist have shown me, is that humans need other people, when we have support around us, when we tell each other our stories, when we connect through the reality of living our lives, we do much better than when we pull back and hide what’s really going on for us. On this podcast we are going to unearth and amplify what helps us as humans, individually and collectively to recalibrate in ways that help us change, grow, even surprise ourselves when life throws us a curve ball. We want to talk about the value of change in our lives. This podcast offers healthcare professionals the chance to be inspired and encouraged to meet the unexpected in their life with grace, skills and a belief in their own human capacity. Life is full of opportunities to recalibrate, with the right mindset, the right resources, the right community. Thank you for adding your voice to the conversation, for sharing your stories with us. Sharee Johnson

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