In the final instalment of the Talking Research series, Chapters of a Research Journey, host Derek Collings-Hughes brings together returning guests Farren McGregor, Georgia Alikaris and Robbie King for a reflective and insightful group discussion.

This episode explores the arc of a paramedic researcher’s journey - from early academic curiosity through to completing a PhD. Together, the panel delves into finding research opportunities, developing proposals, staying motivated, navigating imposter syndrome, and fostering a positive research culture within the profession.

Drawing on their personal experiences, the speakers highlight the value of community, mentorship, and shared learning, and reflect on how research not only shapes careers but strengthens the future of paramedicine.

To learn more about paramedicine research, head to the College’s Research webpage here.

And as discussed in the podcast, don’t forget to check out Research Connect here!

Presented by:

Farren McGregor (Ngāpuhi, Te Arawa, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa, Te Āti Haunui a Pāpārangi, Te Rarawa)

• Honours Graduate, Auckland University of Technology
• Medical Student at the University of Auckland
• Chairperson and Co-Founder for Aotearoa New Zealand Student Paramedics Association
• Chairperson for the Australasian College of Paramedicine Aotearoa New Zealand Committee

Georgia Alikaris

• Paramedic with NSW Ambulance
• Volunteer Hub Leader with St John Ambulance
• Master of Research Student (Western Sydney University)

Dr Robbie King PhD

• Paramedic with Queensland Ambulance Service
• Academic at the Australian Catholic University

Hosted by:

Derek Collings-Hughes

• Paramedic
• PhD Student

Welcome to Kerbside Conversations – the College’s podcast capturing authentic voices and stories from across the world of paramedicine.

In this episode, Laura interviews Prue Snedden, a critical care flight paramedic from Queensland. Prue shares her journey in paramedicine, highlighting the challenges and failures she’s faced along the way. She discusses the importance of failure and resilience and learning from setbacks. Prue emphasizes the value of diversifying skills and experiences, which has enriched her career and personal growth. The conversation also touches on the significance of time management and the balance between work and personal life.

Welcome to Kerbside Conversations – the College’s podcast capturing authentic voices and stories from across the world of paramedicine.

In this conversation, Jordan Gray, a paramedic stroke clinical training officer from New South Wales, shares his journey from Canada to Australia, discussing the differences in paramedic practices between the two countries. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and professional growth in the field of paramedicine, highlighting his commitment to lifelong education through his master's program. Jordan also shares insights into the challenges and rewards of his career, as well as his personal experiences.

Dr Robbie King PhD – The patient experience in paramedic care

Welcome to the third episode of our Talking Research series, Chapters of a Research Journey, where we explore the diverse pathways paramedics take as they embark on their research careers.

In this episode, host Derek speaks with Dr Robbie King (PhD) about his transition into both paramedicine and academia. Robbie shares insights into his research journey, focusing on the importance of understanding patient experiences in paramedic care, particularly in non-conveyance situations.

The discussion highlights the significance of compassion in healthcare, the challenges of navigating a PhD, and the balance between personal wellbeing and academic commitments. Robbie emphasizes the iterative nature of research and the value of mentorship, while also providing advice for future PhD candidates.

The series will conclude with a special panel discussion featuring all our guest researchers, answering key questions from Talking Research listeners.

Submit your questions for Robbie here.

Presented by:

Dr Robbie King PhD

• Paramedic with Queensland Ambulance Service
• Academic at the Australian Catholic University

Hosted by:

Derek Collings-Hughes, Discipline Lead, Paramedicine, Curtin University

Welcome to Kerbside Conversations – the College’s podcast capturing authentic voices and stories from across the world of paramedicine.

In this conversation, Alessia Restiglian shares her journey as a recent graduate in paramedicine, discussing her experiences transitioning from education to her role at Ambulance Victoria. She reflects on the challenges of the hiring process, the importance of staying engaged during the job search, and her aspirations for future research in the field. The conversation highlights the significance of interpersonal skills in paramedicine and the value of practical experience in shaping a successful career.

Welcome to Kerbside Conversations – the College’s podcast capturing authentic voices and stories from across the world of paramedicine.

In this conversation, Paul Reeves, Principal Advisor for Pre-Hospital Care in the Northern Territory, shares his journey from frontline paramedic to a strategic role in healthcare policy. He discusses the importance of saying yes to opportunities, adapting to new challenges, and the critical role of healthcare policy in shaping paramedicine. Paul emphasizes the need for paramedics to be recognized as clinicians and advocates for their profession, highlighting the future of paramedicine beyond traditional ambulance services.

Welcome to Kerbside Conversations – the College’s podcast capturing authentic voices and stories from across the world of paramedicine.

This conversation explores the themes of equitable care in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of confidence, the acceptance of mistakes, and the transformational journey that healthcare professionals undergo. It highlights that anyone can provide equitable care and that the process is ongoing, allowing for growth and learning along the way.

Georgia Alikaris: Master's Student - Examining the attitudes and perceptions of Australian paramedics towards their role in paramedic-initiated health education

Welcome to the second episode of our Talking Research series, Chapters of a Research Journey, where we explore the diverse pathways paramedics take as they embark on their research careers.

In this episode, host Derek Collings-Hughes sits down with Georgia Alikaris, a Master’s student at Western Sydney University, to talk about her research examining the attitudes and perceptions of Australian paramedics towards their role in paramedic-initiated health education.

Georgia reflects on her own journey into research, what inspired her to take this path, the challenges she has faced, and why engaging paramedics in research is so important for the future of practice.

The series will conclude with a special panel discussion featuring all our guest researchers, answering key questions from Talking Research listeners.

Submit your questions for Georgia here.

Presented by:

Georgia Alikaris

• Paramedic with NSW Ambulance
• Volunteer Hub Leader with St John Ambulance
• Master of Research Student (Western Sydney University)

Hosted by:

Derek Collings-Hughes, Discipline Lead, Paramedicine, Curtin University