• Geetha’s Sim Journey Begins at GOSH:
  • Geetha shares how her simulation story began at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), when an F1 team collaborated with the ICU team to refine handoff processes and improve team performance—alongside Allan Goldman.

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-P1fuyccr4&t=484s

• Founding of PediSTARS:
  • Established in August 2013 in India, PediSTARS (Pediatric Simulation Training and Research Society) has become one of the largest organizations dedicated to pediatric simulation-based training and research across India.
• SIMULUS 10 – Conference “Simulus 10”
  • The upcoming SIMULUS 10 will be held October 4–7, 2025, in the scenic foothills of the Himalayas at the Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences (HIMS), Dehradun, in collaboration with AIIMS Rishikesh .
  • More details and registration info via PediSTARS “Register Now” link https://pedistarsindia.com/event-page/
• PediSTARS Membership:
  • Offers membership for professionals including paediatricians, nurses, allied health professionals, simulation educators, researchers, technicians, and students .
  • Membership tier pricing (non-India/LMIC, etc.) is available on the site—doctor and nurse categories with respective fees, plus benefits like access to webinars, membership groups, invites to events, and leadership opportunities .
  • Join here: https://pedistarsindia.com/
• International Collaborations:
  • PediSTARS is affiliated with prominent bodies like the International Pediatric Simulation Society (IPSS), Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH), and the INSPIRE network, and has strong collaboration with the Douglas Starship Simulation Programme (Starship Children’s Hospital, Auckland) for faculty development and simulation innovation https://ipss.org/home
  • https://inspiresim.org/
  • https://www.starship.org.nz/health-professionals/douglas-starship-simulation-programme/
• “Stop the Bleed” / Active Bleeding Control (ABC Guru):
  • Geetha discusses Stop The Bleed program—an Active Bleeding Control initiative aimed at teaching bleeding control to high school students, communities and far beyond as part of the global Stop the Bleed movement.
  • https://www.indianpediatrics.net/june2023/443.pdf

In this episode Alison, Erin and Marie are joined by David Shablak and William Belk from the Sim Geeks Podcast to delve into their simulation journeys and what makes their story stand out. We explore why failure, fidelity, moulage, and psychological safety are central to their philosophy and how it all began.

• David and Will's simulation stories
• Origins and evolution of the Sim Geeks Podcast
• Moulage techniques and discussion
• Simulation fidelity: what truly matters
• The essential role of pre‑briefs for effective simulation
• The gift of failure in creating real learning environments

• Sim Geeks Podcast: https://www.simgeekspodcast.com
• Simulation Tek (their moulage & sim resource): https://www.simulationtek.com
• This Old Manikin (YouTube channel for mannkin tips): Simulation Tek YouTube

Episode Overview

In this episode of SimNurseNZ, we sit down with Dr. David Rodgers, Director of the Interprofessional Simulation Center at Indiana University’s Regional Academic Health Center. With over 30 years in simulation-based education, Dr. Rodgers shares his insights into the role of artificial intelligence, particularly ChatGPT, in healthcare simulation. We explore how AI is transforming medical training, its benefits and challenges, and what the future holds for integrating AI into healthcare education.

Key Highlights

• AI in Healthcare Simulation – Dr. Rodgers discusses the evolution of AI in medical training and its growing impact on clinical education.
• ChatGPT in Simulation – Exploring how AI tools can enhance simulation-based learning, from scenario generation to real-time feedback. A demo of a synthetic AI patient is shown live on the show!
• Opportunities & Challenges – A deep dive into the benefits of AI-driven simulation, ethical considerations, and potential risks.
• Future of AI in Healthcare Education – Dr. Rodgers shares his vision for AI's role in improving patient outcomes and healthcare training.

About Dr. David Rodgers

• Director of the Interprofessional Simulation Center at Indiana University, Bloomington.
• Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine at the IU School of Medicine.
• Nationally registered paramedic with 35+ years of experience.
• Leader in simulation-based learning, having developed and managed major simulation programs.
• Fellow of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare (FSSH) and the American Heart Association.
• Editor for Simulation in Healthcare and Simulation & Gaming, two leading journals in medical simulation.
• Published 35+ peer-reviewed papers on healthcare simulation and education.

Tune in to hear Dr. Rodgers' expert take on AI’s role in shaping the future of healthcare simulation!

Jane Tyerman and Marian Luctkar-Flude The CAN-Sim Co-Presidents

Season 2. Episode 8

In this episode of SimNurseNZ, we engage with Dr. Jane Tyerman and Dr. Marian Luctkar-Flude, Co-Presidents of the Canadian Alliance of Nurse Educators using Simulation (CAN-Sim). They share their personal journeys into the world of simulation, the inception and growth of CAN-Sim, and how their virtual simulations are revolutionizing nursing education. Additionally, they provide details about the upcoming CAN-Sim 2025 Conference and the myriad benefits of becoming a CAN-Sim member.

Key Highlights

• Personal Journeys into Simulation Jane and Marian recount their paths to becoming leaders in nursing simulation and the experiences that shaped their careers.
• The Birth and Evolution of CAN-Sim Discover the inspiration behind CAN-Sim's formation and how it has grown into a pivotal organization in nursing simulation education.
• Virtual Simulations Transforming Education An exploration of CAN-Sim's extensive library of over 250 virtual simulation games, designed to enhance clinical decision-making and patient care skills.
• CAN-Sim 2025 Conference Details Insights into the upcoming CAN-Sim Conference, scheduled for May 4-6, 2025, at the British Columbia Institute of Technology in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. The conference will feature keynote presentations, research grant recipient presentations, and interactive workshops.
• Membership Benefits An overview of the advantages of joining CAN-Sim, including access to a vast repository of virtual simulations, monthly newsletters, research mentorship opportunities, exclusive webinars, and discounts on workshops.

About CAN-Sim

CAN-Sim is a leading Canadian network dedicated to advancing nursing education through simulation. The organization offers a comprehensive range of virtual simulation games and clinical scenarios aimed at enhancing the competencies of nursing educators and students. CAN-Sim also provides professional development opportunities, including webinars and workshops, and fosters a collaborative community for research and innovation in simulation-based education.

Tune in to gain valuable insights from Jane and Marian on the transformative role of virtual simulation in nursing education and how CAN-Sim is leading the way!

Check out the amazing CAN-Sim website at https://can-sim.ca/

Connect with us on Twitter! @Starshipsimprog or email: Starshipsim@adhb.govt.nz

This podcast was funded and made possible by the Douglas Charitable Trust and The Starship Foundation. We give many thanks for their generosity in making this happen.

This podcast was produced by Denish Kumar.

Want to come on our podcast in future seasons? Hit us up! Like, share, subscribe & review us to enable us to continue if you have enjoyed this podcast.

Thanks for listening and supporting us.

Intro/Outro Music: Fridaze - Lauren Duski

Dr. Laura Newhouse on her 2 year Douglas Starship Simulation Programme Fellowship

Season 2. Episode 7

Episode Summary: In this episode of SimNurseNZ, we had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Laura Newhouse, who recently completed her two-year fellowship with the Douglas Starship Simulation Programme in Auckland, New Zealand. Dr. Newhouse shares invaluable insights from her fellowship experience, the impact of simulation in healthcare, and the personal growth she underwent as part of the simulation team.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

• Dr. Laura Newhouse's Fellowship Experience: Dr. Newhouse takes us through her two-year fellowship, discussing the challenges and rewarding experiences that shaped her time with the Douglas Starship Simulation Programme. From being part of the simulation team in Auckland to enhancing her clinical skills through simulation-based learning, Laura reflects on the personal and professional growth she achieved during her fellowship.
• Newly Published Article: "What Can Simulation Educators Learn from the Reluctant Participant?": We dive into Laura’s newly published article, co-authored with Ngaire Polwart, titled What Can Simulation Educators Learn from the Reluctant Participant? An Exploration of the Factors Influencing Engagement Amongst Adult Learners Participating in Paediatric Simulation Training. This qualitative research study explores the factors that influence healthcare professionals' participation in simulation training. The article was recently published in Advances in Simulation (link to article: What Can Simulation Educators Learn from the Reluctant Participant?). Dr. Newhouse discusses key findings, including the barriers and motivations for healthcare workers participating in simulation exercises and how reluctance to participate in simulation can impact individuals and healthcare teams.
• Learnings and Reflections from the Fellowship: Laura shares the key learnings and challenges she faced throughout her time with the simulation team, offering personal reflections on what the fellowship has meant for her career. She also discusses how simulation education can change the way healthcare teams approach patient safety, communication, and crisis management.

Key Takeaways:

• Simulation plays a critical role in enhancing healthcare education and practice.
• Overcoming reluctance in simulation participants is essential for fostering a culture of learning and growth.
• Personal reflection and growth are key components of the fellowship experience, with lasting benefits for both professional development and the healthcare system.

Resources:

• What Can Simulation Educators Learn from the Reluctant Participant? – Read the full article

Connect with us on Twitter! @Starshipsimprog or email: Starshipsim@adhb.govt.nz

This podcast was funded and made possible by the Douglas Charitable Trust and The Starship Foundation. We give many thanks for their generosity in making this happen.

This podcast was produced by Denish Kumar.

Want to come on our podcast in future seasons? Hit us up! Like, share, subscribe & review us to enable us to continue if you have enjoyed this podcast.

Thanks for listening and supporting us.

Intro/Outro Music: Fridaze - Lauren Duski

SimNurseNZ Interviews Lydia Lofton

Season 2. Episode 7

Episode Summary: In this episode of the SimNurseNZ podcast, we’re joined by Lydia Lofton, Associate Director at NHS Elect, to explore her fascinating journey into simulation and its transformative impact on her career. Lydia’s extensive experience in the world of healthcare simulation, coupled with her role as past president of the International Pediatric Simulation Society (IPSS), gives her a unique perspective on the value of interprofessional education (IPE) and the global network of simulation professionals.

Key Topics Covered:

• Lydia’s Career Journey in Simulation: From PICU nursing to simulation nurse educator, Lydia shares her pathway into the world of healthcare simulation and the powerful impact it’s had on her career trajectory.
• The Role of Simulation in Education and Transformation: Lydia discusses how simulation can drive educational and workplace initiatives, and advice of how to implement these transformational changes.
• The Importance of Interprofessional Education (IPE): IPE through simulation is a major focus of the conversation. Lydia outlines why IPE is vital for improving healthcare outcomes, its challenges, and how simulation-based learning can overcome those barriers.
• Adjacent Fields: Mediation, Debriefing, and Professional Supervision: Lydia explores how simulation intersects with other professional practices, such as mediation, debriefing, and professional supervision, and why these areas are important for comprehensive learning and growth.
• IPSS Membership & Networking Opportunities: Lydia talks candidly about the International Pediatric Simulation Society (IPSS), its role in fostering connections, and why simulation professionals should consider becoming members. There is great value to attending events like the International Pediatric Simulation Workshops and Symposium (IPSSW), the 2025 summit in Munich is a must-attend for those looking to advance their careers in simulation.

Why You Should Attend IPSSW 2025 in Munich:

• It’s a chance to connect with global leaders in pediatric simulation.
• Enhance your professional development with cutting-edge simulation research and practices.
• Engage in cross-disciplinary collaboration with fellow simulation professionals.

Links:

• IPSS Membership: Join IPSS Today
• IPSSW 2025 Munich: Attend IPSSW 2025

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• NHS Elect and their work in implementing transformational educational initiatives.
• IPSS membership and events.

Listener Takeaways:

• The immense value of joining a professional network like IPSS for career development and collaboration.
• Practical insights into the challenges and benefits of interprofessional education in healthcare simulation.
• Key tips on overcoming common barriers in simulation-based learning environments.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation with Lydia Lofton! Whether you’re just starting out in simulation or looking to deepen your expertise, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving world of healthcare simulation and interprofessional education.

Connect with us on Twitter! @Starshipsimprog or email: Starshipsim@adhb.govt.nz

This podcast was funded and made possible by the Douglas Charitable Trust and The Starship Foundation. We give many thanks for their generosity in making this happen.

This podcast was produced by Denish Kumar.

Want to come on our podcast in future seasons? Hit us up! Like, share, subscribe & review us to enable us to continue if you have enjoyed this podcast.

Intro/Outro Music: Fridaze - Lauren Duski

SimNurseNZ Interviews Dr. Carl Horsley

Season 2. Episode 6

Episode Summary: In this episode of the SimNurseNZ Podcast, Erin, Alison and Marie had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Carl Horsley, a seasoned ICU specialist at Middlemore Hospital in New Zealand. Carl is an Intensivist working at Middlemore Hospital in New Zealand with a background in Emergency Medicine. Within this role Carl’s focus has been on the practical application of Resilience Engineering in healthcare settings and the use of simulation to build resilient teams and test systems. Carl completed his Master of Science in Human Factors and System Safety at Lund University, with a thesis focused on the sociology of safety. Carl also has a role at the Health Quality and Safety Commission New Zealand as a Clinical Lead. Carl is highly regarded on an international level in this arena and this episode was a joy to record.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Horsley also reflects on the importance of resilience engineering and system-level thinking, sharing stories and lessons learned from his career in ICU and healthcare simulation. His passion for improving patient safety systems and clinical outcomes through simulation is inspiring for everyone at all levels of their healthcare career.

Key Topics Covered:

• Dr. Horsley’s history with healthcare simulation and its impact on ICU practice and beyond
• The role of simulation in improving clinical outcomes and team communication
• Insights into resilience engineering and how it can help healthcare professionals manage complex, high-stress environments
• The connection between systems thinking and healthcare simulation

Featured Resources:

1. Talk by Nicky Case: "Seeing Whole Systems"

• Watch Nicky Case's talk "Seeing Whole Systems"

Book: "How Behavior Spreads: The Science of Complex Contagions" by Damon Sentola

• Learn more about "How Behavior Spreads: The Science of Complex Contagions" by Damon Sentola

"Resilience Engineering" work by Erik Hollnagel

• Check out all the links to Erik Hollnagel’s Resilience Engineering

Thanks for tuning in to this insightful conversation with Dr. Carl Horsley! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review to help others find the SimNurseNZ Podcast.

Connect with us on Twitter! @Starshipsimprog or email: Starshipsim@adhb.govt.nz

This podcast was funded and made possible by the Douglas Charitable Trust and The Starship Foundation. We give many thanks for their generosity in making this happen.

This podcast was produced by Denish Kumar.

Want to come on our podcast in future seasons? Hit us up! Like, share, subscribe & review us to enable us to continue if you have enjoyed this podcast.

Intro/Outro Music: Fridaze - Lauren Duski

Dr. Traci Wolbrink on Healthcare Simulation Behind a Screen

Season 2. Episode 5

Dr. Traci Wolbrink is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and an Intensivist at Boston Children's Hospital in the PICU. Traci co-founded OPENPediatrics alongside Dr. Jeffrey Burns. OPENPediatrics is an innovative online platform, aimed to revolutionise paediatric healthcare education globally. OPENpediatrics serves as a collaborative, peer-reviewed resource. Through its interactive features and evidence-based content, OPENPediatrics continues to empower healthcare teams, particularly in resource-limited settings, to deliver optimal care to paediatric patients. OPENpediatrics has over 128,000 registered users, their videos have been viewed over 23 million times and are also used in every country and territory worldwide​.

Dr Traci Wolbrink is a pioneer in the utilisation of escape room concepts in healthcare simulation to innovate medical education. She is well published in regard to gaming theory and the impact on healthcare professionals learning.

Traci has been a critical support in the faculty development and support over the years of the Douglas Starship Simulation Programme. As well as Dr Peter Weinstock, they visit New Zealand regularly to co-facilitate the Douglas Starship Simulation Programme’s three-day faculty development workshop to train new advocacy inquiry debriefers for zone three healthcare simulation courses.

Episode Summary:

Join us on Sim Nurse NZ as Alison, Erin and Marie interview Dr. Traci Wolbrink, a world leading expert in healthcare simulation, about innovative approaches to clinical simulation training conducted remotely. Dr. Wolbrink discusses her role in co-founding OPENPediatrics and pioneering escape room healthcare simulations, exploring how these technologies enhance learning and patient care in a virtual environment. Traci also discusses why healthcare professionals in clinical simulation are poised in the perfect position be innovators in all areas of healthcare with their unique skillsets.

Introduction to clinical simulation behind a screen: Dr. Wolbrink explains the concept of conducting healthcare simulation behind a screen and its benefits for medical education.

Co-founding OPENPediatrics: The origins and impact of OPENPediatrics, an online community and resource hub for pediatric healthcare providers worldwide.

Escape Room Healthcare Simulation: Innovations in the use of escape room concepts for clinical simulation-based education, promoting teamwork, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.

Links and Resources:

OPENPediatrics: https://www.openpediatrics.org/

Boston Children’s Hospital Immersive Design Systems: https://www.childrenshospital.org/clinician-resources/immersive-design-systems

Dr. Traci Wolbrink's Profile, Publications and Research: https://www.childrenshospital.org/directory/traci-wolbrink

Tune in to gain insights from Dr. Traci Wolbrink on the evolution of virtual healthcare simulation and its transformative impact on health professional education and patient care. Don't miss this enlightening episode of Sim Nurse NZ!

Connect with us on Twitter! @Starshipsimprog or email: Starshipsim@adhb.govt.nz

This podcast was funded and made possible by the Douglas Charitable Trust and The Starship Foundation. We give many thanks for their generosity in making this happen.

This podcast was produced by Denish Kumar.

Want to come on our podcast in future seasons? Hit us up! Like, share, subscribe & review us to enable us to continue if you have enjoyed this podcast.

Intro/Outro Music: Fridaze - Lauren Duski