RCOG

Episode 29: Knot to be Missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Small bites, big lessons 14.07.2026 51min

In this practical and thought-provoking episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Mr James Tibbott, Mr Artur Zanellato, and Mr Srinivas Chintapallata to explore new approaches to surgical education and the future of training. Together, they discuss the value of collaboration between gynaecology and general surgery, the growing challenges facing surgical education, and how training can evolve to better prepare the next generation of surgeons. The conversation highlights the importance of teaching not only technical skills, but also decision-making, operative judgement, problem-solving, and confidence in theatre. This episode is essential listening for O&G professionals, trainees, trainers, and education leads interested in innovative ways to improve surgical learning and support the future workforce.

Episode 28: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Imposter Syndrome 29.06.2026 44min

In this honest and empowering episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Ms Nuha Yassin to explore one of the most common yet least openly discussed challenges in medicine: imposter syndrome. A Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at University Hospitals Birmingham and Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Birmingham, Dr Yassin shares her personal experiences of self-doubt throughout training and leadership, and how she learned to navigate those feelings while building a pioneering career in robotic and minimally invasive surgery. This episode is essential listening for O&G professionals, trainees, and anyone who has ever questioned whether they are 'good enough' — offering reassurance, perspective, and practical tools to thrive in surgery with confidence.

Episode 27: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Decisions Under Fire 22.06.2026 37min

In this energising and insightful episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Tracy-Louise Appleyard OBE — the podcast’s first OBE recipient — to explore how military medicine can transform the way we lead, train and make decisions in healthcare. A Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at North Bristol NHS Trust and Defence Consultant Adviser in Obstetrics and Gynaecology for the Royal Army Medical Services, Dr Appleyard brings decades of experience from both the NHS and military environments. She shares how service life shaped her ability to make clear decisions under pressure, understand consequence, and lead teams through uncertainty. The conversation explores why decisiveness matters, how human factors can make healthcare safer, and what it takes to create psychologically safe teams in high-pressure environments. Dr Appleyard also shares memorable lessons on protecting your “life units”, setting boundaries, and recognising when stress is about perception rather than reality.

Episode 26: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Building surgical futures 09.06.2026 46min

In this inspiring episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Amy Keightley to discuss how innovation, leadership, and ambition can transform surgical opportunities beyond tertiary centres. Working at Great Western Hospital, Dr Keightley shares her journey into gynaecological oncology, her experience in a unit-led gynae-oncology role, and how she established a CMR robotic surgery service within a district general hospital. She explores the challenges of introducing advanced technology in a non-tertiary setting and why access to complex surgery should not be limited by geography.

Episode 25: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Sharp minds, not just sharp scalpels 19.05.2026 43min

In this reflective and energising episode of Knot to be Missed: the RCOG Surgical Skills Podcast, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Simon Frazer, paediatrician and founder of Doctors Training, to explore what makes training meaningful, sustainable and human. Simon shares his journey from clinical paediatrics into medical education, including the importance of finding the 'extra thing' that brings joy and longevity to a medical career. The conversation explores how doctors can move beyond tick-box supervision towards real mentoring, why trainers need time and support to train well, and how simple conversations — often over coffee — can transform feedback, confidence and progression. Together, they discuss the pressures facing trainees and trainers, the need to invest in educators, how to handle difficult conversations constructively, and why professional sustainability starts with boundaries, reflection and self-care.

Episode 24: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Through a different lens 04.05.2026 26min

In this episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Sarah Maling to explore how innovative thinking can unlock new surgical training opportunities. Dr Maling shares how she helped create access to high-volume surgical training outside traditional NHS settings, ensuring trainees could continue to gain hands-on operative experience safely and effectively. Her work offers valuable lessons for all specialties facing reduced theatre exposure and increasing pressure on training opportunities. Together, they discuss what happens when clinical demand shifts away from traditional training environments, and how educators can respond with practical, collaborative solutions that protect both patient care and trainee development.

Episode 23: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Future of abortion care 20.04.2026 25min

In this episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey speak with Dr Rebecca McKay, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist and the associate dean for abortion training, about the future of surgical abortion training in the UK. They explore how abortion care has evolved, what this means for current and future trainees, and the dual need for emergency skills and a elective sustainable consultant workforce. Dr McKay shares her vision for improving access to training—particularly in collaboration with the independent sector—and outlines practical solutions to current barriers. An insightful listen for anyone interested in shaping inclusive, competent, and future-ready abortion care services.

Episode 22: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Emergency simulation 07.04.2026 26min

Every surgeon remembers their first truly unwell patient — the adrenaline, the uncertainty, the weight of getting it right. Miss Christine Ang joins us to talk about how CCrISP and emergency simulation give trainees the closest thing to experience before the real crisis hits. Christine shares what she’s learned from directing the course, the barriers trainees face in the current system, and why simulation isn’t a 'nice extra' — it’s essential preparation for the realities of modern practice. Whether you’re early in training or decades into your career, this episode will change the way you think about emergency care.

Episode 6: Supporting our doctors - an RCOG podcast | Post-traumatic stress symptoms 27.03.2026 34min

O&G staff are commonly exposed to psychologically traumatic events at work. In some cases, these experiences can trigger post-traumatic stress symptoms. Pauline explains the key set of symptoms that characterise post-traumatic stress and the impact these symptoms can have on organisations, staff and the patients in their care. Laura Goodfellow offers a detailed overview of the Good Practice Paper, which provides a framework for the prevention, identification and treatment of PTSS symptoms. She discusses how this supports employers to minimise the impact of traumatic events on staff, and ultimately to improve patient care. Laura Goodfellow and Pauline worked alongside colleagues Andrew Weeks, Kaylee Shean and Helen Spiby to co-author the RCOG Good Practice Paper on the prevention and treatment of work-related post-traumatic stress symptoms in the maternity and gynaecology workforce. In this episode, they speak to Laura Hipple about post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in the O&G workforce and delve into the content of the paper. We'd like to give a content warning for this episode, which discusses themes of work-related trauma and post-traumatic stress symptoms throughout. If this topic is triggering for you, you may wish to listen to one of our other podcasts instead.

Episode 5: Supporting our doctors - an RCOG podcast | Peer support in NHS Lothian 27.03.2026 19min

In this episode, Laura Hipple and Kirsty Dundas discuss the value of peer support in our specialty. Kirsty shares insight into the peer support initiative in place at NHS Lothian in Scotland, which is offered to staff affected by adverse events in obstetrics and gynaecology. Kirsty explains what peer support is and what it isn’t, provides an overview of how it was set up in NHS Lothian, and reflects on why peer support initiatives are invaluable to supporting staff. We'd like to give a content warning for this episode, as it touches on the themes of trauma and adverse events. If these topics are triggering for you, you may wish to listen to one of our other podcasts.

Episode 4: Supporting our doctors - an RCOG podcast : Race equity in the workforce 27.03.2026 24min

he RCOG is committed to working towards racial equity in the UK, through listening to our membership, raising awareness and sharing examples of good practice that can overcome differential attainment and workplace discrimination. In this episode, Laura Hipple and Farah Siddiqui celebrate the launch of the RCOG’s Race equity in the workforce resource. Farah summarises the College’s work in this area over the last three years that led to the development of an eLearning package, including gaining member insights from across the UK. This free resource, hosted on RCOG Learning, is designed to empower every member of staff, at every level, to be a part of meaningful change, not just in conversation, but also through action. Farah explains what is included in the six modules and highlights how everyone can play their part in cultivating psychologically safe environments that benefit both staff and patients.

Episode 3: Supporting our doctors - an RCOG podcast | Cultivating psychologically safe teams in O&G 24.03.2026 25min

In this episode, Susie Crowe talks to co-founder of Psych Safety, Tom Geraghty, about what psychological safety is and why it is important in healthcare. Susie and Tom discuss how we can cultivate psychologically safe teams in obstetrics and gynaecology by modelling psychological safety, encouraging all members of the team to ask questions, flattening the hierarchy and providing people with the space and time to reflect, communicate and contribute in their own individual way.

Episode 21: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | The Power of Partnership 23.03.2026 19min

The RCOG Surgical Skills Project is only possible thanks to the extraordinary support of Hologic®, a global leader in women’s health innovation. In this episode, Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Ailsa Ormerod, whose clinical background and education expertise give her a powerful lens on what women’s healthcare needs next. We explore how Hologic’s mission aligns with improving surgical training, why their investment in education is so impactful, and how their portfolio is shaping modern clinical practice. Ailsa also reflects on her experiences in the UK and Australia, offering valuable insights into the differences in training and the opportunities ahead. If you want to understand the real-world impact of industry–college collaboration, and why Hologic’s role is so central to the future of O&G surgery, this episode delivers both clarity and inspiration.

Episode 2: Supporting our doctors - an RCOG podcast | Building a culture of wellbeing 09.03.2026 21min

In this episode, Ganga Verma speaks to Katharine Backhouse and Ellie Carlisle about their involvement in establishing wellbeing initiatives in Wessex. They outline the rationale for setting up trainee open discussion groups and running a wellbeing-themed teaching day, to equip doctors with the tools they need to care for themselves and empower them to prioritise their own wellbeing. Katharine and Ellie share insight into the benefits these have had on the workforce, reflect on the challenges as well as the successes, and provide tips for other deaneries who may be considering introducing similar initiatives in their regions.

Episode 1: Supporting our doctors - an RCOG podcast | Promoting positive workplace behaviour 09.03.2026 27min

Incivility and poor workplace behaviours can hinder psychological safety and impact team morale, effective communication, and overall team performance. These permissive environments can lead to defensive practice, high stress, burnout, and sickness.  In this episode, Laura Hipple, Ganga Verma, and Susie Crowe discuss the importance of promoting positive workplace behaviours in our specialty, for both staff and patient safety, and explain the impact that poor workplace behaviours can have on the workforce. Ganga and Susie share more about their role as RCOG Workplace Behaviour Advisors and offer insight into the breadth of the RCOG’s ‘Supporting our Doctors’ portfolio, including signposting to key resources that can support you throughout your career.

Episode 20: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Steering the Ship Together 09.03.2026 23min

In this special episode, Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Mr Fevzi Shakir, Consultant Gynaecologist and Chair of the Local Organising Committee for the BSGE Annual Scientific Meeting 2026, to explore his journey into advanced endoscopic surgery, the principles that shape high-quality surgical training, and the future direction of skills development in obstetrics and gynaecology. The conversation reflects on the impact of the RCOG Surgical Skills Project, the role of national organisations in supporting trainees and educators, and what makes ASMs such an important opportunity for trainees to develop their surgical skills, highlighting how networking, community, and informal learning play a vital role alongside technical excellence. With insights for trainees, trainers, and early-career consultants alike, this episode offers practical advice, inspiration, and opportunities for further surgical skill development.

Episode 19: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | ‘See One, Do One’ 23.02.2026 27min

Surgical training has long relied on observation, opportunity, and the occasional raised eyebrow. In this episode, we explore a novel approach: an interactive, AI-enabled simulation that allows trainees to talk through decisions, explore anatomy in 3D, and receive immediate feedback — all outside the operating theatre. We’re joined by Dr Sophie Bracke, an Obstetrics and Gynaecology registrar with a passion for leadership, innovation, and education, to discuss the development of this project and what it could mean for confidence, competence, and the future of surgical training.

Episode 18: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Across the pond, into the sim lab 09.02.2026 35min

In this episode, Hannah and Naomi sit down with Dr Veronica Lerner, Director of Simulation at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York and one of the leading voices in surgical education. Veronica shares her journey into minimally invasive surgery, how her experiences shaped her passion for simulation, and what the UK can learn from the US approach to validated training systems like FLS and EMIGS. She gives a fresh, transatlantic insight into the future of simulation, how it can transform training quality, and why structured, high-fidelity practice is essential for the next generation of surgeons. A must-listen for anyone interested in where O&G surgical training is heading!

Episode 17: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | You've got a friend in me 26.01.2026 36min

In this episode, Hannah and Naomi speak with Hans Nagar, Consultant Gynaecological Oncologist at Belfast City Hospital, and Courtney McMullan, Subspecialty Trainee in Gynaecological Oncology, to explore the growing role of dual (buddy) operating in modern surgical practice. Drawing on their recently published paper on buddy operating in gynae-oncology, Hans and Courtney discuss how working as paired surgeons can improve patient outcomes, enhance safety, and strengthen the learning environment for both trainees and consultants. They reflect on its impact on operative performance, professional development, reducing burnout, and fostering a more open and collaborative theatre culture. Listen to hear how buddy operating is shaping the future of surgical training and team-based practice.

Episode 16: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Complex obstetric operating 12.01.2026 58min

A key recommendation in the workforce of the future focus is review of complex obstetric operating and training. In this episode, the Surgical Skills Fellows are joined by Dr Alison Wright, Mr Albaro Jose Nieto Calvache and Dr Kat Barton to discuss the challenges in this area of O&G operating. They discuss the introduction of a standardized protocol to enhance safety during challenging caesarean sections, focusing on reducing maternal morbidity and mortality. Key surgical strategies include improved pelvic access in cases of adhesions, safer bladder mobilization, and targeted control of postpartum hemorrhage through detailed anatomical guidance. They emphasise early risk identification, team preparedness, simulation-based training, and continuous surgical outcome evaluation to foster a culture of safety and excellence in obstetric care.