In this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with the incredible Mark Aitken, a registered nurse with 40 years of diverse experience. Mark shares his journey from his early days to his current role as the Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia Implementation Deputy Director. Get ready for an episode packed with inspiration, practical tips, and heartfelt stories.

Key Moments:

Introduction & Welcome (00:00:02 - 00:00:12)

• I introduce the episode and welcome Mark Aitken.
• Mark expresses his excitement about sharing his journey and insights.

Mark’s Nursing Journey (00:00:42 - 00:01:00)

• Mark recounts his transition into nursing, inspired by "The Young Doctors."
• Highlights of his extensive career, including various leadership roles.

Understanding and Managing Burnout (00:09:07 - 00:10:05)

• Mark discusses the emotional labour in nursing and how it led to his experiences with burnout.
• Practical strategies for recognising and managing burnout.

The Importance of Self-Care (00:13:14 - 00:14:13)

• Insights into Mark's self-care routines and the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• Tips on crafting a personal self-care plan.

Mentorship and Career Growth (00:15:55 - 00:16:30)

• Mark shares the impact of mentorship on his career and offers advice for finding and being a good mentor.
• Encouragement to seize career opportunities and overcome imposter syndrome.

Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia (00:32:32 - 00:33:00)

• Overview of the Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia and its role in supporting nurses and midwives.
• How the program addresses complex health and well-being issues.

Notable Quotes:

• "The only reason a hurdle is in front of you is because you've allowed it to be there. If you can't go under, around, or over it, go through it."
• "It's vitally important that you realise if you're going to have a successful career, you prioritise your own health and well-being."
• "If somebody's asking you to do something, chances are it's because they've noticed something in you that they think would be perfect for the job."

Connect with Us: Liam Caswell

• Instagram: @highperformancenursing
• Website: High-Performance Nursing

Mark Aitken

• LinkedIn: Mark Aitken

Get in touch with the NHMPA:

• Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia

Subscribe for more nursing tips, career advice, and inspiring stories! Tune in for an episode full of laughter, learning, and loads of inspiration to elevate your nursing career!