Occupied

In this special episode of Occupied, we sit down with Professor Mandy Stanley to reflect on an extraordinary career in occupational therapy as she steps into retirement. Mandy shares the story behind her journey in OT — from early clinical practice to leadership, academia, and shaping the profession at a national level. This conversation is part history lesson, part mentorship session, and part heartfelt reflection on what it really means to grow with a profession over decades. We explore how occupational therapy has evolved across her career, the moments that challenged and shaped her, and what she hopes the next generation of OTs will carry forward. Whether you’re a student just starting out, a clinician mid-career, or an educator thinking about your legacy, this episode is full of perspective, wisdom, and grounding reminders about the heart of OT. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcastFacebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Brock Cook Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this reflective end-of-year episode of Occupied, hosts Brock and Jess take a moment to pause, look back, and make sense of 2025 — both personally and professionally. Together, they unpack the highs, the hard bits, and the unexpected lessons that shaped the year, before turning their attention to what lies ahead. Rather than rigid resolutions, this conversation focuses on values, direction, and intentional growth as they set goals for 2026. This episode is an honest check-in about work, identity, creativity, burnout, momentum, and what it means to keep evolving as practitioners, educators, and humans. In this episode, we discuss: Key reflections and standout moments from 2025 What challenged us, stretched us, or changed our perspectives Lessons learned from projects, conversations, and community Letting go of what no longer serves us Setting meaningful, values-aligned goals for 2026 How intention, curiosity, and sustainability guide our plans moving forward Instagram: @OccupiedPodcastFacebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Brock Cook & Dr Jessica Levick Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this episode of Occupied, Dr Jessica Levick sits down with mental health nurse Ayden Riethmuller to explore the powerful intersection between lived experience and professional practice. Ayden shares his personal journey with mental health challenges and how these experiences have shaped his approach to care, compassion, and recovery-oriented practice. Together, they discuss the value of lived experience. This candid conversation highlights the strength that comes from vulnerability and the ways personal experience can enrich professional identity in mental health care. Whether you’re a clinician, student, or someone with lived experience, this episode offers an honest, hopeful look at what it means to support recovery — for ourselves and others. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcastFacebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jessica LevickSubscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this episode, Brock sits down with Brad from The Becoming Collective to unpack what it really means to come into alignment with the profession of occupational therapy — and what happens when we drift away from it. Brad opens up about the origins of The Becoming Collective, how it started as a space for meaningful connection and reflection, and how the group evolved (and sometimes dissolved) as members navigated burnout, personal growth, and the realities of professional life. Together, Brock and Brad explore: 🌊 The natural ebb and flow of professional identity — and how OTs can lose (and rediscover) their sense of purpose. 🔥 Burnout, disillusionment, and the courage it takes to pause and realign. 🧩 Why models and frameworks aren’t just academic tools, but anchors for reasoning, reflection, and reconnection with occupation. 🤝 The importance of community, vulnerability, and staying curious about who we are becoming as practitioners. This episode is a grounded, honest reflection on growth, drift, and renewal — reminding us that returning to the core of our profession often starts with reconnecting to ourselves. Check out the Becoming Collective here:  The free Clarity Collection guide 1 download: https://thebecomingcollective.kit.com/07b16351bcThe OT Re-Alignment Experience page: https://becoming-realign-landing.lovable.app/The Becoming Collective page: www.thebecomingcollective.com Email: hello@thebecomingcollective.com

In this episode of Occupied, Dr Jessica Levick chats with Professor Elspeth Froude — Professor of Occupational Therapy and National Head of the School of Allied Health at the Australian Catholic University. Elspeth shares insights from her leadership journey in academia, her passion for advancing the profession globally, and her role as Chair of the WFOT World Congress to be held in Thailand in 2026. Together, Jess and Elspeth explore the evolving landscape of occupational therapy education, research, and international collaboration, and discuss how occupational therapists can stay grounded in occupation while responding to global challenges. A thoughtful and inspiring conversation for anyone passionate about the future of occupational therapy and the power of leadership to create meaningful change. 💥 Exclusive Listener Offer! Listeners of Occupied can receive 10% off full registration for the WFOT World Congress 2026 in Thailand using the code Occupied@10 at checkout. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and celebrate occupational therapy on the global stage! Instagram: @OccupiedPodcastFacebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jessica LevickSubscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this episode of Occupied, Dr Jessica Levick is joined by Dr Kieran Broome — occupational therapist, educator, and researcher, to explore how we can bridge the gap between what we know and what we do. We unpack the concept of knowledge translation and why it’s essential for meaningful, evidence-informed occupational therapy practice. Kieran shares insights into how OTs can stay curious, reflective, and engaged in lifelong learning, no matter where they are in their career journey. Whether you’re a student, clinician, or academic, this conversation will leave you inspired to think critically, learn continuously, and translate knowledge into everyday action. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcastFacebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jessica LevickSubscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this episode, I’m joined by Joey Peppas, an occupational therapist running her own private practice. Together, we dig deep into the less-talked-about realities of our profession—being a people pleaser, battling imposter syndrome, and the unique personality traits that often draw us into OT in the first place. Joey shares her experiences of navigating private practice, from the practical challenges of running a business to the personal growth that comes with stepping outside the comfort zone. We also reflect on the ways our personalities shape how we show up as therapists, colleagues, and leaders. If you’ve ever felt like you’re giving too much, doubted whether you’re “enough,” or wondered what it really takes to thrive in private practice, this conversation is for you. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Brock Cook Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Arameh Anvarizadeh, the newly elected president of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). We dive into her journey into occupational therapy, the experiences that shaped her leadership, and the values guiding her work at the highest level of the profession. Dr. Anvarizadeh shares candid insights into her personal story, the challenges she’s faced, and the vision she has for advancing occupational therapy during her presidential term. From equity and inclusion, to professional advocacy, to building stronger connections across our diverse OT community, her priorities highlight the future direction of the profession. Whether you’re a student, clinician, educator, or leader, this conversation will inspire you to reflect on what leadership means in occupational therapy—and how each of us can contribute to shaping the future of our field. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Brock Cook Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

Join Brock and Jess as they chat with Dr Craig Greber about an exciting new model of clinical reasoning he’s helped to develop. Craig shares insights into the origins of this innovative approach, how it can enhance occupational therapy practice, and why clinical reasoning remains critical to the profession. An essential listen for anyone interested in pushing the boundaries of OT thinking! Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jessica Levick & Brock Cook Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

Brock and Jess chat and explore her firsthand experiences attending the 2025 Occupational Therapy Australia National Conference. She explores the highlights, key insights, and areas for improvement from her perspective. Adding depth to the conversation, you’ll also hear reflections from a diverse range of attendees, capturing the varied impressions and standout moments from this year’s event. Whether you attended or missed out, join us as we unpack the takeaways and discuss what it means for the future of occupational therapy practice. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jessica Levick & Brock Cook Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this candid conversation, Brock and Jess dive into the rewarding yet challenging world of academia within occupational therapy. They discuss the genuine highs, the unexpected lows, and share personal insights about navigating life as educators, researchers, and clinicians. Expect reflections on balance, burnout, triumphs, and the ongoing journey of growth in academia. Tune in for honest perspectives, helpful takeaways, and a relatable chat for anyone connected to or curious about the academic side of occupational therapy. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jessica Levick & Brock Cook Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In Episode 174 of Occupied, host Dr Jessica Levick speaks with Martin Staines, an Advanced Occupational Therapist with a deep commitment to recovery-oriented practice in mental health. Martin shares reflections from his extensive clinical experience, exploring how occupational therapists can work authentically alongside people experiencing mental health challenges. The conversation dives into what recovery-oriented practice truly looks like in action—from fostering hope and autonomy to navigating risk, documentation, and systemic constraints. Jessica and Martin discuss the tensions clinicians face between policy-driven models of care and person-centred, values-based practice. They unpack the importance of relationships, everyday occupations, and creating space for meaning-making in mental health recovery. This episode is a rich and grounded exploration of how occupational therapists can challenge the status quo, advocate for human rights, and honour the lived experiences of those they support. Whether you’re working in mental health or passionate about recovery-oriented care, this episode offers wisdom, inspiration, and practical strategies from the frontline. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jessica Levick Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this episode of Occupied, I sit down with Michelle Oliver, Australia’s first-ever Chief Occupational Therapist, for an inspiring and insightful conversation about her journey, her vision for the profession, and the evolving landscape of occupational therapy in Australia. We dive into: Michelle’s personal career path—from clinical practice to national leadership What the role of Chief Occupational Therapist entails and how it came to be The pivotal work being led by Occupational Therapy Australia to advance our profession Key themes and what to expect from the upcoming OT National Conference in Adelaide The importance of representation, policy influence, and strategic leadership for OTs at every level Whether you’re a student, clinician, or leader in health, this episode will leave you reflecting on how we care—for others and ourselves—in complex systems. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Brock Cook Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In Episode 172 of Occupied, co-host Dr Jessica Levick speaks with consultant psychiatrist Dr Theo Theodoros to explore the realities of working in challenging, complex and high-pressure healthcare environments. Drawing from his extensive experience in mental health settings including High Dependency Units (HDU) and Emergency Departments, Dr Theodoros reflects on the emotional, ethical, and systemic challenges that clinicians face across disciplines. The conversation unpacks what it means to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, challenging risks and the importance of compassion—for both clients and practitioners. Together, Jessica and Theo discuss strategies for navigating burnout, maintaining professional integrity, and fostering supportive, reflective environments in the face of adversity. This honest and thoughtful dialogue offers a rare insight into the shared struggles and strengths that unite occupational therapists, psychiatrists, and other allied health professionals working in demanding contexts. Whether you’re a student, clinician, or leader in health, this episode will leave you reflecting on how we care—for others and ourselves—in complex systems. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Host:  Jessica Levick Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

Welcome back to the Occupied Podcast! After a significant hiatus, we’re rebooting with fresh perspectives, exciting content, and most importantly, a brand-new co-host—Jessica Levick. In this special reboot episode:Meet Jessica Levick: Get to know Jessica, her professional background in Occupational Therapy, and her vision for the future of Occupied.What’s Changing: Brock and Jessica discuss why the podcast took a break, what’s been happening behind the scenes, and what listeners can expect moving forward.New Directions & Fresh Ideas: Explore exciting new topics, formats, and features coming your way. From in-depth conversations and expert interviews to addressing critical issues in Occupational Therapy. Join us as we kick off a new chapter filled with enthusiasm, insight, and community engagement. Subscribe and stay occupied with the conversations that matter! Follow us on social media: Instagram: @OccupiedPodcast Facebook: Occupied Podcast Hosts: Brock Cook & Jessica Levick Subscribe now and never miss an episode!

In this episode I sit down with Dr. Jessica Levick to explore the intersection of identity, social media, and the commercialisation of mental health. Together, we unpack the growing influence of social media personalities on mental health narratives, discussing both the opportunities and the challenges this creates for individuals seeking support. We delve into how this trend impacts perceptions of identity and mental well-being and consider the role Occupational Therapy can play in promoting authentic, inclusive, and ethical approaches to mental health care in this evolving digital landscape. Whether you’re an OT, a student, or simply curious about the impact of social media on health, this episode will leave you with plenty to think about. Tune in for an insightful and thought-provoking conversation! And hey, if you enjoyed today’s chat, we’d love it if you could leave us a review and share the episode with your network. Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied Brock@brockcookOTbrock.cook@me.com

In this inspiring episode of Occupied, I sit down with the multi-talented Lindsay DeLong, an occupational therapist and online content creator known for her innovative videos on assistive technologies.  Lindsay shares her journey of merging her passion for occupational therapy with her creative flair, offering listeners a unique perspective on how assistive technologies can enhance lives. She delves into the challenges and rewards of being a creator in this niche, providing valuable insights for both aspiring content creators and occupational therapy professionals. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of healthcare, technology, and creativity, as Lindsay’s story is a testament to the impact one can make by combining their professional expertise with their personal interests. And hey, if you enjoyed today’s chat, we’d love it if you could leave us a review and share the episode with your network.  Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied Brock@brockcookOTbrock.cook@me.com

In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the fascinating topic of Critical Thinking and its significance in our daily lives. We aim to unravel the mysteries of this crucial skill set, often overlooked yet essential for personal growth and informed decision-making. We’ll discuss practical strategies for nurturing a critical mindset, share insights from experts in the field, and provide listeners with actionable tips to apply critical thinking in various aspects of their lives. Whether you’re a seasoned critical thinker or just beginning to explore this area, this episode promises to be an enlightening journey into the world of rational thought and reasoned analysis. Join us as we embark on this adventure to enhance our cognitive abilities and enrich our understanding of the world around us. And hey, if you enjoyed today’s chat, we’d love it if you could leave us a review and share the episode with your network.  Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied Brock@brockcookOTbrock.cook@me.com

Today’s episode is all about mastering interviews, whether you’re sitting in the hot seat or the one steering the conversation. We’re unpacking everything from breaking down interview myths to post-interview protocols in a way that’s easy to digest and even easier to put into action. First off, we’re tackling what really happens in an interview, shining a light on the realities versus the common myths. Making a stellar first impression is more than just dressing sharp; it’s about presenting the best version of yourself, from your body language to your choice of words. And speaking of words, we’ll dive into how to keep the conversation flowing naturally, with tips on active listening and expressing yourself clearly without getting tangled in jargon. Feeling jittery just thinking about interviews? No stress! We’ve got some straightforward strategies to help you stay cool and collected. Plus, once the interview’s over, we’re not leaving you hanging. We’ll chat about the art of the follow-up and why reflecting on your interview experience is a hidden gem for personal growth. Wrapping up Episode 167, remember, it’s all about being prepared, staying authentic, and communicating clearly. Tune in next time for more real talk and pro tips in the world of occupational therapy. And hey, if you enjoyed today’s chat, we’d love it if you could leave us a review and share the episode with your network.  Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied Brock@brockcookOTbrock.cook@me.com

Welcome to the latest episode where we explore the intricate dynamics of racial identity, privilege, and the role of white individuals in addressing systemic racism. In this episode, I’m joined by Helen Harrington and Marielle Turner and we embark on a journey of self-reflection and understanding. We delve into the concept of white privilege, and its impact on healthcare today. We confront uncomfortable truths and share personal stories, aiming to foster a deeper comprehension of our own roles in perpetuating or dismantling racial inequalities. This conversation is an essential step for anyone committed to the path of anti-racism and inclusivity. Tune in, listen with an open heart, and join us in this vital dialogue.  Look after yourself, look after others, and always keep Occupied Brock@brockcookOTbrock.cook@me.com