Peter Murphy Lewis takes the host seat for a special takeover episode, interviewing Martyn Davey a dedicated voice for nursing associates and mental health.

This conversation goes deeper than titles and job roles. It’s about why stories matter.

You hear Martyn reflect on• how podcasting became a platform for unheard voices• moments in clinical practice that changed the way he sees people• the emotional demands of mental health care• why storytelling can shift perception more effectively than policy• where nursing associates are heading next, and the legacy he wants to help build

This episode offers insight, honesty, and a look behind the microphone.

It highlights the power of real experiences, recorded and shared for impact.

Listen, reflect, and ask yourself:

Who in healthcare isn’t being heard and how do we amplify them?

You hear directly from the educators shaping the Nursing Associate journey at Sheffield University.
They talk openly about what the role means, how apprenticeships are changing the landscape, and why strong support systems matter for every student.

In this episode, you explore:

• What educators want every Nursing Associate to understand about the role
• How apprenticeships create both challenges and real opportunities
• The support Sheffield offers to help students succeed
• Their personal routes into nursing education
• How the Nursing Associate pathway has evolved and what that means for future practice
• Why holistic care and strong teamwork sit at the centre of good healthcare

This conversation gives you a grounded look at the people behind the training, the realities of the programme, and the values driving it forward.

In this conversation, Martyn Davey interviews Peter Watt, a nursing associate and research associate, discussing his journey from theatre assistant to his current role in research. They explore the challenges faced by nursing associates, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of peer-to-peer networks in supporting mental health and learning disabilities. Peter shares insights into qualitative research, the barriers to nursing research, and offers advice for those looking to transition into research roles. The conversation emphasizes the need for ongoing education and the evolving role of nursing associates in the healthcare system.

In this episode of Just a Sharp Scratch, Martyn Davey interviews Tom Connelly, a Clinical Educator at the University of Sheffield. They discuss Tom's journey into nursing, his experiences in emergency care, and the transition to education.

The conversation also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on nursing, the role of a clinical educator, and the challenges faced by nursing associates. Tom shares insights on misconceptions about the nursing associate role and offers advice for aspiring nursing associates.

The episode concludes with a reflection on personal achievements and a song choice from the musical Wicked.

This episode is dedicated to Lynn Firth, Director of Apprenticeships at the University of Sheffield’s Health Sciences, who sadly passed away. Her work and passion for developing the next generation of nursing professionals continue to inspire many.

In this engaging conversation, Martyn Davey and Charlie Craig discuss the evolution of nursing education, the role of nursing associates, and the challenges faced in the healthcare sector. Charlie shares her personal journey into nursing, the importance of the nursing associate role, and the creation of a clinical pocket reference designed specifically for nursing associates. The discussion emphasizes the need for recognition and respect for nursing associates, the importance of proactive learning, and the future potential of the nursing associate role in shaping the healthcare workforce.

In this episode of Just a Sharp Scratch: The Extra Dose, Martyn welcomes Peter Murphy Lewis, creator of the documentary series People Worth Caring About, and Erin Hart, Chief Operating Officer of the National Association of Health Care Assistants (NAHCA).

The discussion explores the challenges and opportunities facing Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in the United States, drawing parallels with the Nursing Associate role in the UK. Peter shares insights from filming People Worth Caring About, capturing the lives of CNAs and residents in long-term care. Erin highlights NAHCA’s work in advocacy, training, and creating career ladders that give dignity and progression to frontline caregivers.

Together they cover:

• The reality of working in long-term care facilities

• Why storytelling is crucial for workforce recognition

• The power of career ladders and professional development for CNAs

• What the UK can learn from the U.S. approach to supporting frontline carers

This is a thought-provoking conversation for anyone passionate about valuing the people who provide hands-on care every day.

“Hope to Inspire: Heidi Slatter on Autism, Training & Change”

In this inspiring episode of Just a Sharp Scratch: we sit down with Heidi Slatter — autism advocate, award winner, and founder of Hope to Inspire.

Heidi shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with autism, what led her to start speaking out, and how she’s spent the last decade helping others better understand the neurodiverse community. We also explore her involvement with the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training, and why it’s a vital step in improving healthcare for autistic individuals.

Whether you're a healthcare professional, educator, or simply want to be a better ally — Heidi’s insights will leave you more informed, more empathetic, and more inspired.

🎙️ Real stories. Real people. Real change.