A Midwife’s Real life Story of being Stood down, Isolation, and Forced Choices
In this episode of Midwife Crisis, we sit down with Bridie, a midwife who faced immense challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss the profound impact the pandemic had on healthcare professionals, from the physical toll of PPE to the mental strain of navigating conflicting policies. Bridie shares her personal story of choosing not to get vaccinated due to health concerns and how this decision led to her being stood down from her role. This conversation sheds light on the systemic failures that left many healthcare workers isolated and unsupported and highlights the importance of medical autonomy and personal sacrifice in the face of unprecedented crises.Also joining us in the studio is Bridie's newborn, Manny - who you may hear every now and then. (03:28) Personal Experiences During the Pandemic(04:56) Journey into Midwifery(08:58) Challenges Faced During COVID-19(14:57) Decision Against Vaccination(20:27) Consequences of Not Getting Vaccinated(28:59) Financial Uncertainty During Disciplinary Leave(30:01) Isolation and Judgment from Colleagues(31:29) Lack of Employer Support(32:59) Forced Vaccination Decision(34:12) Health Deterioration Post-Vaccination(36:09) Changing Vaccine Requirements(39:06) Mental and Physical Health Struggles(40:59) Reflection on Midwifery and Career Choices
Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:https://www.collectivebeing.org/https://blueknot.org.au/https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explainedhttps://www.nmsupport.org.auhttps://www.anmf.org.au/https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-processhttps://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-traumahttps://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/ Griefline 1300 845 745 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Lifeline AustraliaHours: Available 24 hoursCall 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14 Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife Instagram - @jess.themidwife To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.auFollow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak
--------
55:36
Surviving, Healing, and Starting Over with Sam Cullen
Welcome back to the Midwife Crisis Podcast! In this deeply moving episode, we are joined by Sam, a dedicated midwife whose story is one of unparalleled resilience and strength. Sam takes us through her life's most challenging moments, including surviving breast cancer, a mastectomy, and the breakdown of a long-term marriage. Despite these hardships, Sam thrives in her career, consistently providing compassionate care to women during their most vulnerable times. Listen in as we explore the unwavering bond of friendship, the trials of balancing a demanding career with personal battles, and the inspiration drawn from empowering others. This episode is a powerful reminder that midwives are not just caregivers but humans with their own complex stories. Join us for a conversation filled with raw honesty, love, and the indomitable spirit of midwifery.(03:59) Sam's Early Challenges in Midwifery(07:09) Navigating Personal Struggles During Studies(10:55) First Job and Unexpected Challenges(17:59) Working with First Nations Women(21:54) Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Impact(29:44) Living with Breast Cancer: The Ongoing Struggle(30:52) The Impact of Medication and Body Image(31:56) Balancing Work and Personal Health(32:42) Experiencing Life as a Patient(35:13) Family Dynamics and Support(40:14) Deciding on Further Surgery(42:43) The Challenges of Midwifery(46:33) Reflections and Advice for Future Midwives
Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:https://www.collectivebeing.org/https://blueknot.org.au/https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explainedhttps://www.nmsupport.org.auhttps://www.anmf.org.au/https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-processhttps://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-traumahttps://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/ Griefline 1300 845 745 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Lifeline AustraliaHours: Available 24 hoursCall 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14 Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife Instagram - @jess.themidwife To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.auFollow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak
--------
54:17
A New Midwife’s Journey: Trauma, Neurodiversity & Self-Discovery with Maddy Newton
In this episode of 'The Midwife Crisis', we have our first in-studio guest!!! Welcome, Maddy Newton, a newly registered midwife who has faced substantial challenges while embracing her neurodivergent and queer identity. Maddie shares her journey from working as a PCA and registered nurse to finally becoming a midwife amidst battling workplace trauma, the complexities of neurodiversity, and discovering her sexuality. We discuss the realities of midwifery, from the misconceptions of birth portrayed in media to the immense responsibilities and emotional weight of the profession. Maddy highlights the importance of intuition, adaptability, and self-advocacy in navigating both personal and professional life. This is a powerful conversation about breaking stigmas, embracing self-discovery, and finding ways to thrive despite the odds in the demanding field of midwifery. (02:09) Challenges of Neurodivergence in Midwifery(03:59) Maddie's Early Career and Personal Struggles(06:50) Navigating the Realities of Midwifery(10:37) Support Systems and Workplace Dynamics(23:04) Addressing Birth Trauma and Professional Growth(26:01) A Traumatic Birth Experience(27:59) Support Systems in Midwifery(35:51) Navigating Personal Identity(41:11) Finding Strength in Midwifery(46:08) Reflecting on Growth and Challenges
Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:https://www.collectivebeing.org/https://blueknot.org.au/https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explainedhttps://www.nmsupport.org.auhttps://www.anmf.org.au/https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-processhttps://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-traumahttps://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/ Griefline 1300 845 745 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Lifeline AustraliaHours: Available 24 hoursCall 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14 Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife Instagram - @jess.themidwife To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.auFollow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak
--------
50:10
Episode 6 - The Weight of a Complaint with Alex Crowell
In this deeply personal episode of 'Midwife Crisis,' host Kelli Zakharoff shares her own harrowing experience of facing an investigation against her midwifery practice following a tragic home birth. We then hear from Alex, a passionate midwife and advocate for women's wellness, who recounts her own journey through similar trials. The episode delves into the emotional turmoil, professional scrutiny, and the life-altering impact of being reported. Both midwives share their coping mechanisms, the support systems they built, and their unwavering commitment to honouring women's choices in childbirth. This conversation shines a light on the often untold struggles midwives face, advocating for open discussions and better support within the profession.
Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:https://www.collectivebeing.org/https://blueknot.org.au/https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explainedhttps://www.nmsupport.org.auhttps://www.anmf.org.au/https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-processhttps://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-traumahttps://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/ Griefline 1300 845 745 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Lifeline AustraliaHours: Available 24 hoursCall 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14 Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife Instagram - @jess.themidwife To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.auFollow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak
--------
46:32
The Silent Epidemic – Bullying and Burnout in Midwifery with Wendy Mcintosh
In this episode of 'Midwife Crisis,' host Kelli Zakharoff engages in a crucial conversation about the often-overlooked challenges faced by midwives, including workplace bullying, burnout, and harassment. Kelli is joined by Wendy McIntosh, an expert with over 30 years of experience in healthcare and mental health, they explore the profound impacts of these issues on individuals and the profession as a whole. The discussion delves into personal experiences, the importance of setting boundaries, and strategies for creating a safer and more supportive work environment. This episode is a must-listen for midwives and healthcare professionals seeking to navigate and overcome these difficult experiences.(00:22) The Hidden Struggles of Midwifery(01:03) Personal Experiences of Burnout and Bullying(04:30) Introducing Wendy McIntosh(06:40) Defining Workplace Bullying(10:11) The Prevalence of Bullying in Healthcare(18:20) Setting Boundaries in the Workplace(27:36) Creating a Safer Workplace
Thanks for listening, for more resources and support relating to today's episode check out these links:https://www.collectivebeing.org/https://blueknot.org.au/https://blueknot.org.au/supporters/self-care-for-supporters/https://nursemidwifehpa.org.au/our-program/peer-support-service-explainedhttps://www.nmsupport.org.auhttps://www.anmf.org.au/https://www.nmsupport.org.au/managers-employers-and-educators/Navigating-the-notification-processhttps://pynkhealth.com.au/psychologist-for-traumahttps://ntgcounselling.com.au/contact/ Griefline 1300 845 745 Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Lifeline AustraliaHours: Available 24 hoursCall 13 11 14 or Text 0477 13 11 14 Midwifery Birth Trauma Support by Jess The Midwife Instagram - @jess.themidwife To buy your copy of Midwife Crisis: From Trust to Trauma visit: midwifecrisis.com.auFollow Kelli on Instagram: @kellizak
Midwife Crisis: The Podcast
Step into the world of midwifery with Midwife Crisis: The Podcast, where we explore the realities of being a midwife in today’s ever-evolving landscape of maternal care. From supporting birthing people through life-changing moments to navigating the trauma, triumphs, and systemic challenges midwives face daily, this podcast shines a light on the heart and resilience behind the profession. Through honest conversations, expert insights, and real-life stories, we celebrate the dedication of midwives while uncovering the complexities of their work
Australia