JUST A SHARP SCRATCH

Our
Story

Just a Sharp Scratch began with a simple yet powerful idea: to celebrate and amplify the voices of Nursing Associates and other healthcare professionals. Created to shine a light on the incredible work being done in healthcare, the podcast serves as a platform for sharing stories, experiences, and insights from the people who make a difference every day.

As the podcast grew, so did our vision. This led to the creation of Extra Dose, a special segment dedicated to exploring broader healthcare topics, from women’s health to innovative practices, offering something extra for our listeners to connect with and learn from.

But we’re not stopping there. Coming in late 2025, we’re thrilled to launch our YouTube channel! This new venture will expand our reach, bringing engaging video content that dives even deeper into the world of healthcare, education, and innovation.

Join us as we continue to celebrate, educate, and inspire. Together, we’re building a community that’s making an impact.

Recent Episodes

Get to know the talented individuals behind the scenes of Just a Sharp Scratch podcast.

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Assistant Director at The Nursing and Midwifery Council

Dr Samantha Donohue

In this episode of Just a Sharp Scratch, we’re joined by Dr. Sam Donohue to take a deep dive into the journey of the Nursing Associate role—where it started, how far it’s come, and where it’s headed next. As someone who has been instrumental in shaping the role, Dr Sam Donohue shares insights into the challenges, successes, and ongoing developments within the profession. We explore the impact of Nursing Associates on patient care, workforce dynamics, and the future of healthcare education. How do we ensure the role continues to evolve and thrive? And what’s next for those looking to step into this vital position? Tune in as we go Back to the Future with Dr. Sam Donohue!

Women's Health With

Dr Sophie Wood

Just a Sharp Scratch: The Extra Dose expands the podcast's focus beyond nursing associates, delving into broader healthcare topics. Each episode features expert guests, real stories, and in-depth discussions on health policies, innovations, and cross-discipline insights. The Extra Dose enriches the main show, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare for professionals and listeners interested in the field’s evolving landscape.

This series we are focusing on Women's health with Dr Sophie Wood.

International Nursing Associate

Just A Sharp Scratch:

The Extra Dose

We’ve officially wrapped up recording our International Nursing Associate Mini-Series! 🌍🎙️ This special series dives into the experiences, challenges, and successes of Nursing Associates around the world. We can’t wait for you to tune in and hear these incredible stories.

The first episode drops at the end of February 2025—stay tuned! 👀✨

Up Coming Events

Discover where Just a Sharp Scratch is heading next!

From connecting with Student Nursing Associates to celebrating healthcare, we’re excited to meet and inspire.

Check out the details below!

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Just A Sharp Scratch: The Pulse

Youtube series

Exciting Opportunity! Be Part of Our Upcoming YouTube Series 🎬

We’re launching a brand-new YouTube series: A Day in the Life of a Nursing Associate! We start recoding in July & this series will showcase the real experiences of Nursing Associates across different settings, highlighting the impact they make every day.

📢 Applications are now open! If you’re a Nursing Associate and want to share your story on the show, apply now!

📝 How to Apply: Download the application forms below and send the to our email address:

justasharpscratch-guestbooker@outlook.com
📅 Deadline: 28th March 2025

Don’t miss this chance to shine a light on your role and inspire others! ✨

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Just A Sharp Scratch: The Extra Dose

Podcast

🎙️ New Podcast Series in the Works! 🌍👶

We’re excited to announce that we’re kicking off recording for our next mini-series, International Midwives, with our amazing co-host Charlotte Nolan, Lecturer in Midwifery!

Over the next two months, we’ll be speaking with midwives from around the world, exploring their unique experiences, challenges, and the incredible work they do.

Stay tuned for updates—we can’t wait to share these powerful stories with you soon! 💜✨ #JustASharpScratch #InternationalMidwives

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Just A Sharp Scratch

Podcast

🎙️ Want to Be a Guest on Our Podcast? 🌍👩‍⚕️

We’re always looking for healthcare professionals to join us on Just a Sharp Scratch! If you have a story to share, insights to offer, or an important topic to discuss, we’d love to hear from you.

📩 Get in touch: justasharpscratch-guestbook@outlook.com

Whether you're a nurse, nursing associate, midwife, paramedic, or any other healthcare professional, we want to feature your experiences in our future episodes! Let’s amplify healthcare voices together. 💜✨ #JustASharpScratch #HealthcareStories

Services

Podcast Workshop
Price on enquiry
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Public Speaking and Conferences
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Media and Content Services
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Testimonials

Sara Johnson

Just a Sharp Scratch has been an eye-opening journey into the world of nursing associates. The content is engaging and informative, making it a must-listen for anyone in the healthcare industry.

Emily Smith

The Extra Dose podcast is a refreshing take on healthcare discussions. It's fascinating to hear different perspectives and learn from the experiences of other healthcare professionals.

David Rodriguez

I've been a nurse for years, and Just a Sharp Scratch has truly highlighted the significance of nursing associates. It's inspiring to see the recognition they are finally receiving.

Aisha Patel

The Extra Dose podcast brings a unique angle to healthcare conversations. It's insightful and thought-provoking, offering valuable insights for healthcare enthusiasts.

🧑‍⚕️🚀 New Limited Edition Drop! 🚀🧑‍⚕️

Say hello to the Just a Sharp Scratch Action Figure – a tribute to Nursing Associates, creativity, and making waves in healthcare media! 🎙️💻📸

Fully equipped with: 🎤 Podcast mic
💻 MacBook Pro
📷 DSLR camera
🎧 Headset
🖊️ Drawing tablet

…all the tools behind the scenes of the podcast that’s changing the game.

Because nursing isn’t just clinical – it’s innovative, bold, and just a sharp scratch away from something amazing. 💉✨

(FYI, Not available in shops & Not available to buy)

#JustASharpScratch #NursingAssociate #HealthcareHeroes #PodcastLife #BehindTheScenes #NHSVoices #NurseLife #CreativeHealthcare

🌍 New Episode Drop!
This week on our international nursing mini-series, we’re in Texas with Elizabeth Espinoza-Rodriguez, a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) 🇺🇸💉

Elizabeth shares how the LVN role compares with the Nursing Associate role in the UK 🇬🇧 — from training to responsibilities, and what both roles mean for the future of accessible, community-focused care.

🎙️ One world. Many paths. All nursing.
➡️ Listen on Spotify — link in bio!

#JustASharpScratch #NursingAssociate #LVNLife #GlobalNursing #LatinaNurse #HealthcareWorkers #NursingJourney

✨ Exciting news! ✨
Our custom Just a Sharp Scratch scrubs is being made, ready for filming in July!

These will feature in our A Day in the Life of a Nursing Associate series, bringing real stories from real professionals to life.

We’re also launching exclusive merchandise for our incredible guests as a token of appreciation!

Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes content as we gear up for this exciting journey.

#JustASharpScratch #NursingAssociate #HealthcareStories #BehindTheScenes

🚨 NEW EPISODE OUT NOW! 🚨

We’re kicking off our international Nursing Associate mini-series with a trip to Australia! 🇦🇺✨

In this episode, we chat with Bradley Ross, an Enrolled Nurse (EN) working in surgical theatres, about life in the OR Down Under! 🏥⚡

🔪 What’s the role of an Enrolled Nurse in Australia?
🔪 How does theatre nursing compare to the UK?
🔪 What can we learn from different healthcare systems?

📢 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major platforms!

🎬 Reminder! Applications for A Day in the Life of a Nursing Associate YouTube series close March 28th! Head to www.justasharpscratch.com to apply!

#JustASharpScratch #TheExtraDose #Podcast #NewEpisode #NursingAssociate #EnrolledNurse #TheatreNurse #SurgicalNursing #ORLife #NurseLife #Healthcare #GlobalNursing #NursingPodcast #NHS #ScrubbingIn

📢 NEW EPISODE DROPPING MARCH 7TH! 🎙️
Our international Nursing Associate mini-series kicks off with an exciting first episode featuring Bradley Ross, an Enrolled Nurse (EN) working in surgical theatres in Australia! 🇦🇺✨

🔹 What’s it like working in theatres on the other side of the world?
🔹 How does surgical nursing in Australia compare to the UK?
🔹 What can we learn from different healthcare systems?

Bradley shares his journey, experiences in the operating room, and the unique challenges of theatre nursing in Australia. Don’t miss this insightful episode on Just a Sharp Scratch AND The Extra Dose!

📅 Coming March 7th – Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all major streaming platforms!

🎧 Listen on Just a Sharp Scratch & The Extra Dose!

#JustASharpScratch #TheExtraDose #Podcast #NursingAssociate #EnrolledNurse #SurgicalNursing #TheatreNurse #OperatingRoom #ORNurse #Healthcare #GlobalNursing #AustralianNursing #ScrubbingIn #NursingPodcast #NurseLife #HealthcareProfessionals #NursingCareer #SurgicalTeam #ORLife #NHS #HealthcareWorldwide

✨ Are you a Nursing Associate who wants to showcase a day in your life? Now’s your chance!

🗓 Deadline: 28th March – all forms must be submitted by then! No exceptions!

🎥 Be part of our YouTube series and help shine a light on the incredible work we do every day. This is your opportunity to share your journey, raise awareness, and inspire future Nursing Associates!

👉 Interested? Visit www.justasharpscratch.com for details!

📩 Already signed up? Make sure your forms are completed and sent in ASAP!

Tag a Nursing Associate who should get involved! ⬇️

#JustASharpScratch #NursingAssociates #DayInTheLife #HealthcareStories #NursingCommunity #YouTubeSeries

📢 New Episode Incoming! 🎙️

This Friday, February 14th, we’re chatting with Ella Reynolds, a leader in nursing education, about the role of Nursing Associates and how we shape the future of the profession.

🔥 You don’t want to miss this one!

Tag a fellow nurse or Nursing Associate who needs to hear this! 👇

🎧 Just a Sharp Scratch – streaming everywhere Friday!

#NursingAssociates #JustASharpScratch #HealthcarePodcast #FutureOfNursing
#NursingAssociates #NursingPodcast #HealthcareEducation #NurseInnovation #FutureNurses #NursingProfession #JustASharpScratch #NursingLeadership #NursingCommunity #NurseTalk

📸 Instagram Post (Engaging & Shareable)

🚀 “Your future is whatever you make it. So make it a good one.” – Doc Brown

The Nursing Associate role has come a long way, but where is it heading next? In the latest episode of Just a Sharp Scratch, we sit down with Dr. Sam Donohue to go Back to the Future and explore:

⏳ The evolution of Nursing Associates
📈 The role’s impact on patient care & the NHS workforce
🔮 What’s next for Nursing Associates & the NMC

🎧 Listen now: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1qHt3G5flRM55ILVWwwRxN?si=R77aIAnGSXiXhcxvqRCSlw

💬 Tell us in the comments: Where do you think the Nursing Associate role will be in 5 years?

Tag a Nursing Associate, student, or healthcare colleague who needs to hear this! 👇

#JustASharpScratch #NursingAssociates #FutureOfNursing #NHS #NMC #NursingPodcast #HealthcareLeadership #BackToTheFuture #HealthcareInnovation #NursingCommunity

🚀 Back to the Future: Part 2 – Out January 31st! 🚀

In this episode of Just a Sharp Scratch, we sit down with Dr Sam Donohue, one of the key figures behind the creation of the Nursing Associate role. From its origins to what the future holds, this is an essential listen for anyone in healthcare!
Listen on all major podcasts platforms:

Tag a Nursing Associate or student who needs to hear this! 👇

#NursingPodcast #JustASharpScratch #NursingAssociate #NMC #FutureOfNursing #HealthcareHeroes #NursingLife #NurseEducator #NHS #NursingLeadership #CPD #HealthcareInnovation

"To all Student Nursing Associates and Nursing Associates—remember, you can do it! Every challenge you face is shaping you into the incredible healthcare professional you’re becoming. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep making a difference. The journey isn’t always easy, but your passion and dedication will take you far. Stay strong, stay inspired, and never forget why you started!
#YouCanDoIt #NursingAssociate #StudentNursingAssociate #FutureOfNursing #HealthcareHeroes #KeepGoing #YouGotThis #NAJourney #NursingLife #ProudToBeNA #Inspiration #HardWorkPaysOff #NursingCareer #NeverGiveUp #NACommunity #StepByStep

📣 Just a Sharp Scratch Podcast Update! 🌍
🎙️ We’re halfway through recording our International Nursing Associate mini-series, and the conversations have been incredible.

From SENs in Australia to LPN/LVNs in the US and UK nursing associates, this series is a global celebration of healthcare expertise! 🌏✨

🎧 New episodes drop every next month

#JustASharpScratch #NursingAssociate #GlobalHealthcare #NursingPodcast #NurseLife #HealthcareHeroes #InternationalNursing #GlobalNursing #PodcastCommunity #NursingJourney

🎧 New Episode Announcement!
Our next episode, "Back to the Future Part 2," features Dr. Sam Donohue as we explore her work in implementing the Nursing Associate role.

This conversation reflects on the profession’s journey and looks ahead to its future impact in healthcare.

🗓️ Tune in 31/01/25 on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

Hashtags:
#JustASharpScratch #Podcast #NursingAssociates #DrSamDonohue #FutureOfNursing #HealthcareLeadership

Ready for an exciting adventure! ✈️ Currently at Bristol Airport, heading to Teesside University for my talk tomorrow. 🎤

Even more exciting—filming starts tomorrow for our new YouTube channel, Just a Sharp Scratch: The Pulse! 🎥💡 Stay tuned for behind-the-scenes updates and fresh content.

Let’s make it a day to remember! 💪

Hashtags:
#JustASharpScratch #ThePulse #NursingAssociates #HealthcareInnovation #NHS #NurseLife #NursingLeadership #HealthcareEducation #Inspiration #YouTubeLaunch #ProfessionalGrowth #MedicalCommunity #NursingJourney #NursingCommunity #HealthcareHeroes #BehindTheScenes #TravelForWork #Motivation #TrendingNow

💚 Mental health matters—especially for those on the frontlines of care.
Did you know that healthcare workers are at higher risk for stress, anxiety, and burnout? This Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s shine a light on the importance of mental health support for Nursing Associates and other healthcare workers. 🌟
📢 Top Tip: Remember to take time for yourself, whether it’s a quiet moment with a cup of tea or reaching out to a colleague for support.
✨ Your mental health is as important as the care you give others. Let’s talk about it! 💬
👉 Drop a 💚 in the comments if you’re prioritizing your mental health today.

Samaritans

📞 Call: 116 123 (Free, 24/7)
💻 Website: samaritans.org
For anyone struggling to cope, available day or night.
Mind Infoline

📞 Call: 0300 123 3393
📱 Text: 86463
💻 Website: mind.org.uk
Offers mental health information and support.
NHS Staff Support Line (for NHS workers)

📞 Call: 0800 069 6222 (Free, 7 am–11 pm daily)
For NHS employees needing confidential support.

#MentalHealthAwareness
#EndTheStigma
#ItsOkayToNotBeOkay
#SelfCareMatters
#YouAreNotAlone
#MentalHealthSupport
#BurnoutPrevention
#HealthcareCommunity

*"🎙️ New episode drop! This week on Just a Sharp Scratch, we’re thrilled to feature Jeanelle, who shares their inspiring journey and dives deep into Burn out! 💡
From [specific insight] to [memorable moment], this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and support. 💬

Tune in now! 🎧 on all podcast platforms & let us know your biggest takeaway in the comments – we’d love to hear from you. 👇*
#NewPodcastEpisode #JustASharpScratch #NursingPodcast #PodcastLove #HealthcareConversations #PodcastCommunity #NursingAssociates #HealthcarePodcast #InspiringStories #NursingLife #PodcastHost #PodcastingJourney #HealthCareHeroes #NurseLife #NursingEducation #PodcastAddict #SpotifyPodcasts #ApplePodcasts #NursesOfInstagram #PodcastPromotion

🌟 New Episode Alert! 🌟

"Burning Bright, Not Burning Out: A Conversation with Janelle"

Are you feeling overwhelmed in your healthcare role? You're not alone.

This week on Just a Sharp Scratch, we talk to Janelle, an Australian nurse and author of Nursing the Nurse. Janelle opens up about her experience with burnout, how she overcame it, and her tips for staying resilient.

🔥 Learn how to recognize the signs of burnout.
🔥 Discover practical strategies to protect your mental health.
🔥 Find out how Nursing the Nurse can inspire your journey to recovery.

If you need support, reach out:
💬 Samaritans (UK): 116 123 | samaritans.org
💬 Mind (UK): 0300 123 3393 | mind.org.uk
💬 NHS Staff Wellbeing Support Line: 0300 131 7000
💬 Befrienders Worldwide: befrienders.org

🎧 Available January 6 on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!

Tag someone who needs to hear this. 💙 #JustASharpScratch #Burnout #Nursing #MentalHealth

📣 We’re now on TikTok! 🎉

The Just a Sharp Scratch podcast is expanding! Catch:
🎙️ Behind-the-scenes moments
🎥 Episode highlights
💡 Myth-busting about nursing associates

We’re here to celebrate healthcare heroes and set the record straight about what nursing associates do.

👉 Follow us at @JustASharpScratchPodcast

#JustASharpScratchPodcast #TikTokLaunch #NursingAssociates #HealthcareCommunity

🎄✨ Merry Christmas from Just a Sharp Scratch! ✨🎄

We’re wishing all our listeners, supporters, and friends a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and a little extra magic.

Thank you for being part of our journey this year—we couldn’t have done it without you! Here’s to more stories, conversations, and celebrating amazing healthcare professionals in the New Year.

Stay sharp and enjoy the festivities!

#MerryChristmas #JustASharpScratch #HappyHolidays #HealthcareHeroes #ThankYou

📢 Welcome to Just a Sharp Scratch! 🎙️

Hi, I’m Martyn 👋, and I’m thrilled to bring this podcast to Instagram! Just a Sharp Scratch celebrates the amazing work of Nursing Associates and healthcare professionals from around the world 🌍.

✨ From real stories to thought-provoking discussions, we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of healthcare and explore what makes these roles so vital. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just curious about healthcare, there's something here for everyone!

🎧 Season 2 is here, and I can’t wait to share incredible episodes with inspiring guests, including leaders, innovators, and everyday heroes making a difference.

Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and let’s build a supportive community that celebrates the heart of healthcare. ❤️

Hit follow, and let’s take this journey together! 🚀
#JustASharpScratch #NursingAssociates #HealthcareHeroes #PodcastJourney

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