Beyond The Call Experiences of High Trauma Occupations

Peter had a chat with Michael Clarke about Triple Zero Heroes, on International Paramedics Day, and talks about the Voluntary Medical Retirement scheme

In this episode of Beyond the Call, host Peter interviews Crystal Culp, a retired nurse from Alberta, Canada, about her extensive 38-year career in the nursing field. Crystal shares her background, having grown up in Southern Ontario and her nursing journey which began in Northern Ontario. She discusses the challenges she faced, including homesickness during college, her extensive experience in varied nursing areas, and the intense situations of cardiac and labor units. Crystal also delves into her experience with organizational trauma and leadership challenges, and how these experiences led to her current advocacy for nurses. She emphasizes the importance of supportive workplaces, retention, and appreciation for nursing staff. This episode provides a deep dive into the personal and professional life of a dedicated nurse and the systemic issues within the healthcare system.

In this episode of the 'Beyond The Call' podcast, Willow, a long-time friend mine, shares her harrowing journey through childhood neglect, sexual abuse, and eventually being coerced into sex work by an abusive partner named Brad.
The conversation details Willow's early life, characterized by a lack of nurture and support from her parents, and follows her into a toxic relationship where she was manipulated into full-service sex work under threats and coercion. Willow discusses her struggles with PTSD, her relationships, and the ongoing impact of her trauma, including a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder.
Highlighting the importance of therapy and self-care, Willow opens up about her path to reclaim her narrative and find hope and healing, emphasizing the value of seeking help and building supportive communities.
 
This is an incredibly brave episode and contains triggering subjects.  Please use your discretion when deciding to listen.

In this episode of Beyond the Call podcast, I talk with Mark Thomas, the president of Code Nine Foundation and a current serving police officer. We discuss Mark's journey through his mental health struggles triggered by a traumatic on-duty experience and the subsequent development of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Mark shares his path to recovery, which included hospitalization, therapy, and a strong support network, particularly highlighting the role his boss Mick Bennett played. They also touch on the initiatives and support services provided by the Code Nine Foundation, which helps first responders and their families through various programs like meal deliveries, respite weekends, assistance dogs, and more. The conversation underscores the importance of mental health support, social connection, and personal growth through adversity.
Code 9 information and book ordering can be found at the following:
https://www.code9ptsd.org.au/
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/code9ptsd
 

In this episode of Beyond The Call, Peter interviews Alan Playford, a long-term paramedic from New South Wales and one of Australia's most decorated civilians.
Alan shares his journey from joining the paramedic service in 1975 through the highly challenging early years of paramedicine, including the first paramedicine course at St. Vincent’s Hospital led by Dr. Bob Wright. Alan discusses the evolution of paramedicine, the introduction of new technologies like defibrillators, and the incredible challenges they faced, such as hostility from within the ambulance service.
He recounts the Newcastle earthquake and the application of advanced life support techniques in dangerous and high-stakes scenarios, including crush syndrome cases.
Alan also discusses his harrowing experiences in Rwanda, where he and a team of paramedics provided care amidst the atrocities of genocide.
Alan reflects on the psychological impact of his career and emphasizes the importance of documenting positive achievements to combat the negative memories. The episode underscores the importance of resilience, teamwork, and innovation in paramedicine and highlights Alan's new book, 'Through the Rubble,' which details his experiences.
"Through The Rubble" can be found in all good book shops and online and was authored by Alan Playford and Penny Keogh
 

This episode of Beyond The Call Podcast features Jeff Tougher, father of paramedic Steven Tougher, who was tragically murdered in April 2023.
Jeff discusses his son's compassionate life dedicated to serving others and recounts the devastating details of Steven's murder and the subsequent trial.
The episode delves into the broader issue of violence against first responders and Jeff's campaign for 'Steven's Law'—a proposed legislation aimed at providing greater protection for paramedics and enforcing stricter penalties for assaults. Jeff emphasises the importance of raising public awareness and legislative action to prevent future tragedies and improve the safety and working conditions of paramedics. Listeners are encouraged to support the cause by advocating for the law and promoting the campaign.  You can contact Jeff and order Steven's Law stickers at stevenslaw12@gmail.com and follow the Stevens Law facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571253719672
 
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Dr Nikki Jamieson is a social worker and suicidologist with a PhD focusing on moral injury and suicide prevention. Dr. Jamieson shares her personal journey, including her son's tragic suicide while in the Australian Defence Force, and how it propelled her into the field of suicidology and moral injury research.
She discusses her PhD work, the concept of moral injury, and the need for better understanding and support mechanisms for veterans and those in high-trauma occupations. Dr. Jamieson also highlights her advocacy work, involvement in the Royal Commission on Defence and Veteran Suicide, and the importance of postvention care.
The conversation delves into the differences between PTSD and moral injury, the potential for preventive measures, and the various therapeutic approaches that can aid individuals suffering from moral injury.

Phillip Thompson served as a soldier of the Townsville-based First Battalion, Royal Australian Regimen, and was deployed to East Timor and Afghanistan. In 2009 Phillip was wounded in action when an Improvised Explosive Device detonated within one metre of him. The blast resulted in Phillip sustaining severe injuries and he was medically evacuated back to Australia. As well as obvious physical injuries from the blast, Phillip also suffered from traumatic brain injury and several other life changing conditions.
Phillip spent the next several years putting all of his efforts into recovery and coming out the other side stronger than ever before. Today, he is passionate about helping others overcome adversity to become the best versions of themselves.
This conversation touches on his journey of recovery and mental health.  
Phillip Thompson is the federal member for Herbert, and holds a number of Shadow Defence portfolio's.  He was awarded the OAM in 2018 for service to the welfare of veterans.

Dr. Jacqueline Drew, is an associate professor at Griffith University's School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, discussing her extensive work as a police psychologist. Dr. Drew highlights her journey from being an organisational psychologist with the Queensland Police Service to her current roles in academia and consulting for police agencies.
The conversation delves into the mental health challenges faced by police officers, focussing on trauma, organisational and operational stressors, and their proportional contributions to psychological distress.
Dr. Drew underscores the importance of peer support, understanding organizational justice, and evolving leadership within police forces to mitigate these stresses. The discussion also explores the similarities in mental health issues across different first responder communities and the necessity for systemic reforms in support structures like workers' compensation. Important themes include the need for proactive mental health care, the potential for post-traumatic growth, and the critical role of empathetic and informed leadership in fostering healthier organisational environments.

In this episode of Beyond The Call podcast, I have a conversation with Amy Taylor, an accomplished individual with a diverse background. Amy, who holds a degree in molecular biology and an MBA, has worked in various fields including biotechnology, modelling, and aviation. She is also a high-class escort.
Amy shares her life story, discussing her upbringing, career journey, and the challenges she faced, including dealing with a violent encounter with an internet pimp. Despite societal stigma, Amy advocates for safer and more humane treatment of sex workers.
The conversation also touches upon the broader implications of trauma and the importance of mental health support, while highlighting Amy's aspirations to support the underprivileged and speak out against injustices.

Matt Checchin is a former NRL Referee, who officiated in over 570 games, and for over 20 years, retiring in 2021.  He has refereed in 3 Grand Finals, 4 State of Origins, 13 Internationals, and made his first grade debut in 2001.
In this episode of Beyond The Call Podcast, The conversation delves into Matt's upbringing, education, and early interest in refereeing. Checchin shares insights into the challenges faced by referees, including the physical and mental demands of the job, handling on-field decisions, and coping with criticism and abuse from fans and media. He discusses his personal journey, including coming out as gay and dealing with public and internal pressures.
Matt also reflects on the importance of mental health support for referees and the need for a balance between physical and psychological preparation. 
In a wide reaching conversation, we look at the person behind the whistle, and the human story behind a job that has trauma that most people simply do not consider.

In this final part of my conversation with Nich Woolf, a highly experienced paramedic.
Nich shares stories from his career, including a harrowing incident with a man on fire and his transformative experiences in Afghanistan, where he provided crucial medical training.
He discusses the emotional toll of the job, the camaraderie among first responders, and his extensive charity work, including facilitating medical care in underserved regions. Nich also recounts helping Afghan medical professionals and their families flee the Taliban.
Despite personal risks and the challenges of working in conflict zones, Nich's dedication to humanitarian work and resuscitation training shines through.
The episode highlights his published book, 'Resuscitating Afghanistan,' and discusses the logistics and emotional challenges of delivering medical aid in high-stress environments.