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World Extreme Medicine Podcast
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World Extreme Medicine Podcast

Author: World Extreme Medicine

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We’re committed to ensuring extreme medicine education can reach all medical, healthcare and supporting professionals working in austere environments.

With regular updates, our team brings you the latest from across the broad spectrum of extreme medicine disciplines, including expedition, space, remote, pre-hospital and humanitarian medicine as well as a range of topics across performance and non-technical skills. Enhance your ability to tackle challenges with new skills you can take home or out into the field.

Push the boundaries of your medical career!
222 Episodes
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In this second part of our conversation with Tim Harvey, we delve into his journey through clinical education and his transition to medicine. Tim shares invaluable insights on teaching philosophy, managing change in healthcare settings, and the challenges of introducing new roles like nursing associates. He discusses the importance of balancing work and life, especially during intense humanitarian deployments. Tim also opens up about his preparation for upcoming overseas missions and the personal toll of such work. This episode offers a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of healthcare education and the dedication required for humanitarian work.
In this gripping two-part episode of the podcast, Eoin Walker sits down with Tim Harvey, a former humanitarian nurse turned medical student. Tim shares his harrowing experiences working in some of the world's most dangerous and desperate locations. From treating Ebola patients in Sierra Leone to managing mass casualties in war-torn Afghanistan, Tim provides a raw and unfiltered look into the realities of humanitarian work. He recounts heart-wrenching decisions, ethical dilemmas, and the constant threat to his own safety. Tim's story is one of resilience, compassion, and the harsh realities of global healthcare disparities. He discusses the emotional toll of his work, including PTSD and readjustment challenges, while still emphasising the profound impact and personal growth these experiences offered. This episode offers listeners a rare glimpse into the world of frontline humanitarian healthcare, exploring both its darkest moments and its capacity to inspire. Tim's journey from nurse to medical student provides unique insights into different healthcare roles in crisis situations. Whether you're interested in global health, considering a career in humanitarian work, or simply seeking to understand the complexities of healthcare in extreme environments, this episode promises to be both enlightening and deeply moving. If this is a field you're interested in, why not check out our Humanitarian Medicine Courses.
Join us for an insightful journey into the world of adventure travel with seasoned explorers Ffyon Smith (née Davies) and Gemma Aldridge. In this episode, our guests share invaluable tips on planning, safety, cultural sensitivity, and overcoming challenges in remote destinations. From navigating language barriers to handling emergencies, Ffyon and Gemma offer practical advice drawn from their extensive travel experiences across the globe. Whether you're a novice traveller or a seasoned adventurer, this episode is packed with wisdom to enhance your next expedition. Follow Ffyon & Gemma on Instagram to keep up to date on their adventures!
We're pleased to welcome back Daniel Grace to the podcast where he discusses the groundbreaking Livingstone Revisited 2024 expedition. This 2000km journey through Zambia aims to transform healthcare accessibility in remote areas using telemedicine, solar power, and innovative snake bite training. Learn how this modern expedition honors David Livingstone's legacy while addressing critical health challenges in Africa. To find out more and how to donate, click here. Daniel will be joining us this year at the World Extreme Medicine Conference to share this trip, you can meet him by joining us in Edinbrugh this November!
Sarah Spelsberg sits down with Teimojin Tan, emergency physician and participant on Season 9 of the hit survival show "Alone". Teimojin shares insights from his time in the wilderness of Labrador, discussing his unique approach to survival medicine, the mental challenges of isolation, and how his experiences have shaped his medical practice. From innovative uses of everyday items to the importance of resilience, this episode offers valuable lessons for both medical professionals and outdoor enthusiasts.
In this episode of the World Extreme Medicine podcast, host Eoin Walker speaks with polar expedition leader Kasper Jæger about the unique challenges of practicing medicine in the Arctic.  Kasper shares insights from his extensive experience guiding in Svalbard and Antarctica, discussing everything from frostbite prevention to evacuation challenges.  Learn about the psychological impacts of extended polar expeditions, the importance of personal admin in extreme environments, and how medical professionals can prepare for work in these harsh conditions. Whether you're considering a career in polar medicine or simply fascinated by survival in extreme cold, this episode offers a captivating look into one of the world's most challenging medical environments. Find out more about our Polar, Winter & Svalbard Expedition here.
Join experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeon Henrik Hedelin as he shares invaluable insights on haemorrhage control in resource-limited settings. Drawing from his extensive field experience in conflict zones and humanitarian missions, Henrik challenges conventional wisdom and offers practical, life-saving techniques for managing severe bleeding. This eye-opening discussion covers the nuances of wound packing, the overuse of tourniquets, and the critical importance of context-specific approaches to trauma care. Whether you're a medical professional, first responder, or anyone interested in emergency medicine, this episode offers essential knowledge that could make the difference between life and death in austere environments.
Join us for an exhilarating conversation with Sophie Camp, a GP trainee and Army Reservist, as she shares her incredible journey from medical school to high-altitude expeditions in the Karakoram. Sophie recounts her harrowing experiences during a tri-service expedition to Pakistan, where she faced rockfalls, avalanches, and life-threatening medical emergencies at extreme altitudes. Learn how her military training prepared her for these challenges and discover the unique opportunities available to medical professionals in the reserves. From sailing across the Atlantic to providing critical care in remote locations, this episode offers invaluable insights into the world of extreme medicine and the benefits of a portfolio career. Whether you're a medical student, a practicing physician, or simply curious about adventure medicine, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for those seeking to push their boundaries in healthcare.
In this episode we welcome back Hareen De Silva, a GP who recently returned from a deployment to Gaza with CADUS, a German NGO. Hareen shares his experiences working in a trauma stabilisation point amidst active conflict, managing a diverse international team, and dealing with the psychological impact of humanitarian work in extreme environments. From mass casualty incidents to the challenges of daily life in a war zone, this episode offers a raw and insightful look into the realities of providing medical care in one of the world's most dangerous areas.
In this in-depth episode, Sarah is joined by the incredible Bill Griggs, a highly acclaimed Australian physician and trauma specialist who has left a mark on the field of medicine through his innovative contributions to trauma care and disaster response.  With his career spanning over four decades, Bill has been a true pioneer in the development of life-saving techniques, including the Griggs Technique, for aiding breathing issues.   Bill’s expertise extends beyond the boundaries of Australia as he has played pivotal roles in international disaster relief efforts, as well as in a number of military deployments, starting with the 1991 Gulf War, where he served on a US Navy hospital ship and aircraft carrier, a dedicated educator and leader in the healthcare community.   Alongside sharing his amazing stories of heroism, Bill talks about the impact these experiences had on his mental health and the importance of reaching out for help when you truly need it. Listen to Bill share his first-hand accounts & show why he is a true inspiration to all of us!
This week Lauren McKenna sits down with Tom Roffe-Silvester, co-founder and managing director of the Veterinary Task Force and Exped Vet. Tom shares his journey working with operational working dogs in the military and how this experience led him to create a company that provides essential veterinary care solutions for working dogs in challenging environments. He also discusses the groundbreaking new course, Expedition Veterinary Medicine, developed in collaboration with World Extreme Medicine. This course aims to empower veterinary and medical professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in remote and austere settings. Join us as we explore the cutting-edge world of expedition veterinary medicine and the incredible impact it can have on animal welfare in extreme conditions.
Ben LaBrot, founder and CEO of Floating Doctors, joins us this episode where he shares his incredible journey of delivering healthcare to remote, underserved communities around the world. Ben discusses the challenges and rewards of providing medical care in resource-limited settings, the importance of building trust with patients, and the profound impact that humanitarian work can have on both healthcare providers and the communities they serve. From his accidental beginnings in Tanzania to his current work in Panama, Ben offers valuable insights into the world of global health, the power of experiential learning, and the importance of persistence and adaptability in the face of adversity. He also shares his vision for the future of Floating Doctors and how others can get involved in this life-changing work. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a student, or simply someone passionate about making a difference, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to take action. Join us as we explore the incredible world of Floating Doctors and discover how one person's passion can change countless lives.
In this podcast episode, we sit down with Jessica Thomas-Mourne, a specialist paramedic in critical care working with Devon Air Ambulance in the UK. Jessica shares her research on gender inequality within the pre-hospital emergency medicine environment, highlighting the challenges faced by women in this field and offering practical recommendations to bridge the gender gap. From biased recruitment processes to the need for better work-life balance, Jessica provides valuable insights into creating a more diverse and inclusive environment in air ambulance services. To read Jessica's recommendations, click here.
In this captivating episode, we are honoured to be joined by the esteemed Dr. Michael Harrison, MD PhD MPH FAsMA, a leading authority in the field of aerospace medicine. Dr. Harrison currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer of Hercules Medical Group, a renowned Texas-based entity dedicated to providing comprehensive medical care and consultation to Axiom Space and their astronauts. With an impressive background spanning over 12 years in aerospace medicine, Dr. Harrison also holds the prestigious position of Chief Medical Officer for Axiom Space. In this role, he advises the company's C-Suite on all aspects of human health and safety, offering invaluable risk analysis for off-nominal commercial spaceflight missions. Throughout the episode, Dr. Harrison delves into the unique challenges and considerations involved in packing medical kits and supplies for space missions. He shares his wealth of knowledge on managing health issues in microgravity environments and provides exclusive insights into the groundbreaking developments taking place at Axiom Space in the realm of commercial spaceflight. Join us as we explore the intricacies of packing both your medical kit and the rest of your gear for space, with special considerations that are essential for the success and safety of any mission. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the foremost experts in the field and gain a deeper understanding of the fascinating world of space health and medicine.
In this episode of the World Extreme Medicine Podcast, host Eoin Walker speaks with Marius Rehn, Editor-in-Chief of the Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine, about the ins and outs of publishing research in an academic journal. They discuss the importance of aligning research with the scope of the chosen journal, common mistakes authors make when submitting manuscripts, navigating the peer review process, and tips for increasing publicity of published work. Rehn emphasises the importance of passing the "so what" test - ensuring research addresses a fundamental question that will benefit the community of practice and ultimately patients. He also highlights the need for brevity and conciseness, keeping in mind the busy clinician audience. Tune in for valuable insights on smoothly navigating the academic publishing journey from an expert editor's perspective.
In this episode, Sarah Spelsberg is joined by the brilliant Mabli Davies, an anaesthetics trainee and expert in women's health in extreme environments. Mabli shares her personal experiences and research on managing menstruation, pregnancy, and reproductive health in the world's most challenging conditions. Drawing from her master's dissertation on menstruation management and suppression in austere environments, Mabli provides invaluable insights, practical tips, and strategies for women facing physical, psychological, and environmental challenges during their menstrual cycles on expeditions. The conversation delves into the importance of preparation, hygiene, fitness, and sleep in supporting women's health in the wilderness. Mabli also discusses the role of expedition medics in promoting inclusivity and breaking the stigma surrounding women's health in extreme environments. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of women's health and adventure medicine.
Welcome to Diversity Week! In this special episode, a diverse panel of medical professionals, eye surgeon and Sikh warrior Pavandeep Singh, NHS & wilderness expedition Dentist Burjor Langdana, emergency physician and paediatrician Terez Malka, explorer, aquanaut, MD & Director of space medicine group Astronautics Institute Shawna Pandya, UK GP studying tropical medicine Chern Lim, and GP & humanitarian doctor Hareen Di Silva, share their unique journeys into expedition medicine. Despite coming from various backgrounds and facing challenges, they found their passion for practicing medicine in extreme environments by seizing opportunities, developing skills, maintaining fitness, and believing in themselves. The guests discuss the importance of mentorship, support networks, and the welcoming nature of the expedition medicine community. They emphasise that it's never too late to get started and encourage aspiring wilderness medics to dream big and take steps to pursue this fulfilling career path. Sign up to our newsletter & never miss an episode & find out about future releases before everyone else.
In this episode, Niccolo Stomeo, an anaesthesia and intensive care resident at Humanitas University in Milan, joins us to discuss his groundbreaking study on the role of remote teleradiology, X-ray, and POCUS at mass motorcycle events. Nico shares his firsthand experience from the 2021 International Six Days of Enduro, a challenging and dynamic race spanning a vast area between Lombardia and Piemonte in Italy. Throughout the conversation, we delve into the utility, limitations, and decision-making benefits of having portable digital X-ray and telemedicine available in remote field hospital settings. Nico highlights the importance of having a full team, including a radiology technician, nurses, doctors, and an orthopaedic surgeon, to maximise the effectiveness of this technology. We explore the challenges faced during the study, such as power supply, radiation exposure, and the need for reliable Wi-Fi and cellular connections to enable remote consultation with radiologists. Nico also shares the direct benefits observed, including the ability to provide definitive treatment on-site, reduce the burden on local healthcare systems, and allow athletes to continue racing when injuries are ruled out. Looking towards the future, Nico emphasises the need for larger, well-controlled studies to further validate the findings and improve external validity. He also stresses the importance of data collection and analysis in pre-hospital care settings to identify areas for improvement and advance the quality of care provided. Join us for this captivating discussion on the cutting-edge of emergency medicine in extreme environments, and discover how remote teleradiology is shaping the future of medical care at mass sporting events. To read Niccolo’s study, click here.
In this riveting episode of the World Extreme Medicine Podcast, we sit down with WEM faculty Lucy Williams, a seasoned paediatric nurse who recently returned from a life-altering deployment to Gaza with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). From the relative normalcy of Egypt to the war-torn streets of Gaza, Lucy takes us on an emotional journey through her experiences working in a hospital mere meters away from the heart of the conflict. She shares powerful stories of resilience, hope, and heartbreak, including the tale of a family struggling to survive the aftermath of a devastating blast. Discover the challenges faced by humanitarian workers in one of the world's most volatile regions, as Lucy provides a rare glimpse into the day-to-day realities of delivering critical care in the face of unimaginable adversity. Whether you're a healthcare professional considering a career in humanitarian aid or simply someone looking to better understand the human cost of conflict, this episode offers a raw, unfiltered look at the courage and compassion of those who risk everything to help others in need. You can also watch this episode over on our Youtube channel here.
In this conversation with Luca Carenzo, we delve into the complexities and challenges surrounding Exercise Associated Collapse (EAC). Drawing from a recent publication in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport titled "An Unusual Case of Marathon-related Exercise-associated Collapse: Case Report and Some Considerations for Medical Care at Endurance Mass Participation Events," we unravel a fascinating case that sheds light on the importance of a thorough diagnostic approach and multi-disciplinary collaboration in EAC management. Luca, an esteemed Anaesthetic and Critical Care consultant from Milan, Italy, shares his insights on empirically proven treatments for EAC and how this unique case has reshaped his perspective on the differential diagnoses in EAC. We explore the significance of patient-focused research, the power of intra-specialty collaboration, and the potential for EAC collated databases to advance our understanding of this complex condition. With a rich background working at The Royal London Hospital Adult Critical Care Unit, participating in mission work with Doctors without Borders, and serving as a faculty member at World Extreme Medicine, Luca brings a wealth of expertise to the discussion. Currently, he works at the Instituto Clinico Humanitas, Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine in Milan, and serves as a consultant for iHelp, an Italian critical care company dedicated to mass event medical care. Join us for an enlightening exploration of EAC that will challenge your assumptions and inspire a more comprehensive approach to patient care in endurance events. This paper is also mentioned in the episode: Sudden cardiac arrest in a marathon runner: a case report Please note: this episode was originally aired on ⁠The Pre-Hospital Care Podcast.⁠ World Extreme Medicine was given permission by the podcast host to share this episode.
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