Self-criticism is common in emergency services, particularly among people who care deeply and hold themselves to high standards.

In this first episode of Shift Happens, we’re joined by Critical Care Paramedic Dave Ipsen for an open and grounded conversation about self-criticism: where it comes from, how it shows up on shift and at home, and why being hard on yourself doesn’t actually lead to better performance.

Together, we explore practical ways to recognise self-critical thinking, respond with greater self-compassion, and develop a more supportive inner voice, without lowering standards or losing what makes you good at your job.

This episode is for anyone who’s replayed a job, doubted themselves, or felt the pressure to always be better.

Learn more:

Self-Compassion - Information, community, learning

Research on self-compassion and how it protects the mental health of first responders

Research on how mindfulness and self-compassion could potentially decrease functional disability in returning veterans with PTSD symptoms.

We’d love to hear from you
Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at
AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au

Support is always available
If this episode has raised anything for you:

• NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home
• Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline

Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance.
Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge
With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley.
Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham.
Technical production by East Coast Studio.

We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present.

The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet the voices behind the podcast and get a feel for what’s ahead: expert insights, practical tools, and real conversations shaped by the realities of shift work, high-pressure environments, and caring for others.

Whether you’re on the road, behind the screens, or supporting those who are, Shift Happens is about learning, sharing, and making positive change — one episode at a time.

Welcome to Shift Happens — a podcast dedicated to wellbeing in emergency services.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.