Lorraine Evans is the kind of midwife who turns every experience into a story worth telling. With a larger-than-life personality and a passion for adventure, Lorraine has built a career that’s taken her from the bustling streets of London to some of the most remote communities in Australia. As a travel midwife, she’s delivered babies in outback hospitals, managed high-risk births via telehealth, and tackled emergencies as the sole midwife on call - all with her signature humour and warmth.

Before healthcare, Lorraine’s career path was as varied as her travels, but nothing fulfilled her quite like midwifery. Lorraine shares the realities of agency nursing, from intense clinical moments to the deep connections she forms with patients and communities. Despite the unpredictability of locum life, she thrives on the freedom, flexibility, and unique experiences it brings.

A wine judge in her spare time, Lorraine brings her expertise to the podcast studio, sharing a glass with our hosts - who, unsurprisingly, end up breaking one in the process! Tune in to hear Lorraine’s take on agency midwifery, her love for connecting with communities, and why she wouldn’t have it any other way.

It Takes Heart is hosted by cmr CEO Sam Miklos, alongside Head of Talent and Employer Branding, Kate Coomber.

We Care; Music by Waveney Yasso

More about Lorraine's Organisation of Choice, the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation
We are a non-profit, charitable organisation who raises funds in order to directly support the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service and the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, which care for nearly 285,000 people from Tully to the Torres Strait.

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Content warning: This episode discusses suicide and may be distressing for some listeners. If you feel you could be triggered by this content, you may want to skip this episode.

Dr. Karyn Matterson’s path to medicine was anything but typical. Building a career first in tourism, a devastating personal tragedy shifted her purpose entirely, leading her to study clinical dietetics before ultimately pursuing medicine. Determined to create security for her family while making a real impact, Karyn joined the Australian Defence Force, balancing medical studies with family life. Her journey was far from easy, and in this episode, Karyn shares the challenges she overcame and the lessons that shaped her along the way.

Eleven years as an Air Force doctor honed Karyn’s adaptability and teamwork skills, preparing her for the complexities of rural healthcare. Now the Director of Medical Services at Blackall Hospital in outback Queensland, Karyn is a passionate advocate for rural general practice and the vital role of locum doctors in remote communities. Throughout her career, Karyn has also taken an active role in many professional committees, contributing to the development of rural healthcare policies and workforce solutions. She gives an inside look at life in outback Queensland - what it’s like to live and work there and the unique challenges facing rural healthcare.

Karyn’s story is a powerful reminder that purpose often emerges from life’s toughest moments. Whether you're a doctor considering locum work, curious about rural healthcare, or simply love stories of resilience, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

It Takes Heart is hosted by cmr CEO Sam Miklos, alongside Head of Talent and Employer Branding, Kate Coomber.

We Care; Music by Waveney Yasso

More about Karyn's Organisation of Choice, Remote Australian's Matter.
Remote Australians Matter is a community-driven organisation that empowers and encourages remote Australians to join and participate in the design and development of solutions that are fit for their community and their residents.

Connect with Karyn on LinkedIn.

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Follow @ittakesheartpodcast on Instagram, @cmr | Cornerstone Medical Recruitment on Linked In, @cornerstonemedrec on TikTok and @CornerstoneMedicalRecruitment on Facebook.

Join us for an eye-opening episode on occupational rehabilitation with Chantelle Wood, a leading rehabilitation counsellor and founder of Restorative. As the Australian Rehabilitation Counsellor of the Year at the Allied Health Awards, Chantelle shares her journey in allied health, offering insights into the complex process of recovery and reintegration into the workforce after life-changing injuries. From stories of individuals overcoming trauma to the essential role of rehabilitation counsellors, this episode highlights how holistic support empowers people to reclaim their lives and careers.

We explore the significance of employer involvement in the return-to-work process and why mental health awareness is crucial in rehabilitation settings. Chantelle discusses the emotional challenges clients face, including identity loss, and how rehabilitation professionals provide the guidance needed to navigate these hurdles. Her client-centred approach and commitment to connecting with families and employers underscore the importance of a collaborative recovery journey. Through inspiring stories of transformation, she illustrates the life-changing impact of rehabilitation services and the power of tailored support in helping individuals successfully return to work.

Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on the vital role of rehabilitation counsellors and the incredible journeys of recovery they help facilitate.

It Takes Heart is hosted by cmr CEO Sam Miklos, alongside Head of Talent and Employer Branding, Kate Coomber.

We Care; Music by Waveney Yasso

More about Chantelle's Organisation of Choice, Solaris Cancer Care.
Solaris Cancer Care is a community-based healthcare organisation. Their Cancer Support Centres are the first of their kind in Australia and offer support, information, education, and complementary therapies to cancer patients and their primary carers.

Follow Chantelle on Instagram or LinkedIn.

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Follow @ittakesheartpodcast on Instagram, @cmr | Cornerstone Medical Recruitment on Linked In, @cornerstonemedrec on TikTok and @CornerstoneMedicalRecruitment on Facebook.

Hamish Briggs is a viral TikTok star and healthcare professional whose career has taken some unexpected turns. Growing up in outback Kalgoorlie, his journey led him from professional dancing - including performing at Disneyland Paris - to working as a COVID marshal, becoming a mining medic, and finally to becoming a registered nurse.

Hear how Hamish leveraged social media to build an audience, attended the TikTok Awards, and balanced content creation with his nursing career. He opens up about the challenges of transitioning between vastly different roles, the resilience needed to navigate career shifts, and the unexpected skills that helped him along the way. Hamish also shares his experiences working in prisons and remote communities, offering a fascinating look at the complexities of rural healthcare.

This episode is packed with flamboyant fun, laughter, and Hamish’s infectious energy. From drag shows in the outback to the unpredictable moments of his career, his story is a testament to adaptability, authenticity, and embracing life’s unpredictability. Don’t miss this wildly entertaining conversation about career reinvention, self-expression, and finding joy in every twist and turn.

It Takes Heart is hosted by cmr CEO Sam Miklos, alongside Head of Talent and Employer Branding, Kate Coomber.

We Care; Music by Waveney Yasso

More about Hamish's Organisation of Choice, The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia.
RFDS is a national charitable healthcare organisation providing primary healthcare and 24/7 emergency services to those in rural and remote Australia. RFDS uses advanced aviation and medical technology to deliver vital care where traditional services are unavailable.

Follow Hamish on TikTok and Instagram.

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Follow @ittakesheartpodcast on Instagram, @cmr | Cornerstone Medical Recruitment on Linked In, @cornerstonemedrec on TikTok and @CornerstoneMedicalRecruitment on Facebook.

Ever wondered what it takes to create a podcast series that not only tells stories but makes a real impact? Join us on a journey through the transformative world of 'It Takes Heart,' as we wrap up an incredible first season filled with inspiring tales from healthcare professionals across Australia and beyond. From attracting healthcare workers to rural areas to discovering diverse paths like working at the Olympics, our conversations have uncovered the heart and soul of the healthcare field. The power of community, candid storytelling, and an evolving narrative have shaped our series, and we couldn’t be more excited to continue this journey with a new season on the horizon.

Step behind the curtain with us as we recount the late-night recording sessions, technical hiccups, and unforgettable experiences that shaped our podcasting adventure. Expect plenty of laughter as we share light-hearted anecdotes, from a Gold Coast Titans mix-up to an impromptu clapping session with a guest.

As we gear up for season 2, we’re eager to welcome more voices from the healthcare community in Australia to share their unique stories. We’re open to your suggestions for potential guests, ensuring that we continue to bring meaningful, engaging, and heartfelt discussions to your ears.

This episode of It Takes Heart has CEO of cmr Sam Miklos hosting alongside Head of Talent and Employer Branding, Kate Coomber.

We Care; Music by Waveney Yasso

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Follow @ittakesheartpodcast on Instagram, @cmr | Cornerstone Medical Recruitment on Linked In, @cornerstonemedrec on TikTok and @CornerstoneMedicalRecruitment on Facebook.

Join us as Marguerite, an accomplished sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapist, shares her incredible journey. Fresh from the Paris Olympic Games, she reflects on her role as team physio for the Aussie Stingers, Australia’s women’s water polo squad. With a career spanning leadership at Water Polo Australia and PhD studies at the University of Queensland, Marguerite's story is one of passion, resilience, and balancing elite sports with family life.

Step behind the scenes of elite sports through Marguerite’s eyes. She reveals the adaptability needed to manage athletes' physical demands, especially water polo players prone to hip and shoulder injuries. From psychologists to dietitians, the Aussie Stingers' support team fosters trust and mutual support, crucial to their success. Marguerite’s perspective as a former elite athlete enriches her understanding of the challenges faced by players.

Relive the Olympics through Marguerite’s personal stories of camaraderie, global unity, and memorable encounters with icons like Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz. She also shares her vision for advancing athlete health through her PhD research and Water Polo Australia’s strategies for future Games. This episode celebrates sports, community, and the enduring spirit of perseverance.

This episode of It Takes Heart has CEO of cmr Sam Miklos hosting alongside Head of Talent and Employer Branding, Kate Coomber.

We Care; Music by Waveney Yasso

More about Marguerite's Charity of Choice, Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) Centre for Ageing Dementia Research.

Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) Centre for Ageing Dementia Research
The Queensland Brain Institute is a leading neuroscience research institute, devoted to a fundamental understanding of how the brain works, from its smallest components through to the integrated networks that underpin human thought and behaviour.

Visit https://qbi.uq.edu.au/research/centres/cjcadr/about-centre for more information.

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Follow @ittakesheartpodcast on Instagram, @cmr | Cornerstone Medical Recruitment on Linked In, @cornerstonemedrec on TikTok and @CornerstoneMedicalRecruitment on Facebook.

Join us on a captivating journey to the heart of Australia's remote healthcare landscape with Lesley Woolf OAM, a distinguished healthcare professional whose exemplary 50-year career has earned her the Order of Australia Medal.

Lesley is the Executive Health Manager at Mala'la Health Service, where she does everything from manage the local morgue to launching critical child health programs - the challenges are both unique and challenging. But Lesley is all about the positive changes brought about by transitioning healthcare to community control. She highlights the importance of collaboration with her team and the journey towards creating a more accessible healthcare environment.

Get a glimpse into the life of a remote area nurse as Lesley discusses the essential qualifications, ongoing education, and personal resilience required to thrive in these demanding roles. Her stories from places like Mount Isa and the Northern Territory underscore the joy and fulfillment that come with a career in nursing, despite the challenges. Lesley's personal anecdotes and professional milestones shine a light on the remarkable improvements in healthcare services, inspiring listeners to appreciate the power of community-driven healthcare and the passionate individuals like her who make it possible.

This episode of It Takes Heart has CEO of cmr Sam Miklos hosting alongside Head of Talent and Employer Branding, Kate Coomber.

We Care; Music by Waveney Yasso

More about Lesley's Charity of Choice, Mala'la Health Services:

Mala'la Health Services
Mala'la Health Service Aboriginal Corporation provides culturally appropriate and comprehensive primary health care services to the people of Maningrida community and surrounding homelands under a community-control model.

Visit https://www.malala.com.au/contact for more information.

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Follow @ittakesheartpodcast on Instagram, @cmr | Cornerstone Medical Recruitment on Linked In, @cornerstonemedrec on TikTok and @CornerstoneMedicalRecruitment on Facebook.

Marie Davey, an inspiring figure in the world of remote area nursing, joins us to share her extraordinary journey. From starting her nursing career in New South Wales in the 1980s to embracing the challenges and adventures of remote area nursing in Australia, Marie has become a symbol of resilience and adaptability. Listen as she recounts her memorable experiences, such as navigating to a placement by mail truck and tinnie during the wet season.

Marie brings to life the diverse responsibilities of remote nurses, who often serve as the sole healthcare resource in their communities. With hands-on experience in various fields from maternity to corrections health, Marie highlights the essential training and support needed to succeed in remote nursing roles. Her personal story illuminates the unique challenges faced, emphasising the need for a solid mentorship network, especially for those just beginning their remote nursing careers.

Through Marie's reflections, we explore the importance of building trust and the rewards of making a difference in isolated locations. She offers invaluable advice for aspiring nurses to remain open and curious, while also sharing insights into the lifestyle changes and job security challenges that come with contract work. This episode celebrates the transformative experience of remote nursing, where personal growth meets the opportunity to contribute significantly to communities in need.

This episode of It Takes Heart has CEO of cmr Sam Miklos hosting alongside Head of Talent and Employer Branding, Kate Coomber.

We Care; Music by Waveney Yasso

More about Marie's Charity of Choice, Beyond Blue:

Beyond Blue
We all have good days and bad days. Then there are those days when something isn't quite right, you've got something on your mind, or things just seem too much. Beyond Blue’s free mental health services help connect you to that person. No matter who you are, or how you're feeling, reach out to their free counselling services for support – they’ll point you in the right direction so you can get the help you need.

Visit https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support for more information.

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Follow @ittakesheartpodcast on Instagram, @cmr | Cornerstone Medical Recruitment on Linked In, @cornerstonemedrec on TikTok and @CornerstoneMedicalRecruitment on Facebook.