Why Medics Matter

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.

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. 

"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 & LinksNational 24/7 Sexual Abuse Support: 0808 500 2222 | rapecrisis.org.ukBMA Wellbeing Support (24/7): 0330 123 1245 | bma.org.uk/wellbeingNHS Practitioner Health: practitionerhealth.nhs.ukSurviving in Scrubs: Peer stories and advocacy | survivinginscrubs.co.ukFurther reading Breaking the Silence Report (WPSMS): Read the reportNHS Sexual Safety Charter: The 10 CommitmentsGMC Good Medical Practice (2024 Updates): Professional StandardsDisclaimer: 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..."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.

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! 

Amie and Simon talk about shame and culture, and the importance of being open and honest and developing compassionate communities. Remember, you matter. 

In this raw and honest episode of Why Medics Matter, we step into the uncomfortable territory of shame in medicine. It’s the feeling that keeps us awake at 3am replaying a patient encounter, the inner voice that tells us a clinical error is a moral failing rather than a human one.In this episode we are joined by Dr Mike Blaber, Palliative Medicine Consultant in the West Midlands and and we explore shame and imposter thoughts and why sharing our shame stories can be incredibly powerful. Remember; You matter.

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. 

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.

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.

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/

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.

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.

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.

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"?

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.

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.

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 needed2. Set the boundary3. Maintain those boundaries with confidence and consistencyIf you are constantly checking your phone, looking at work WhatsApp groups, this episode is for you.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Join Amie and Simon as they dissect the critical elements of difficult conversations, offering clarity and confidence to transform confrontation into collaboration.

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.

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.