What can paramedics, in fact anyone who wants to be a high performer, learn from elite sport?

Olympian Jo Brigden Jones shares how high-performance principles translate directly to frontline work. We explore mental conditioning, managing setbacks, staying focused under pressure, and building sustainable performance across a career.

Jo discusses practical strategies for managing fatigue, navigating emotional setbacks, and protecting wellbeing, simple tools for night shift and an indulgent cookie recipe for treat occasions.

She also shares her top three non-negotiables for staying mentally strong and physically capable in high-pressure environments.

Learn more:

1. The Resilience Project
2. The imperfects podcast
3. The Female Athlete project 

4. Growth Mindset (Mindset theory)

We’d love to hear from you
Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Get in touch with the podcast team at
AMBULANCE-Wellness@health.nsw.gov.au

Support is always available
If this episode has raised anything for you:

• NSW Ambulance staff can access confidential support via Staff Health - Wellbeing resources - Home
• Anyone can contact Lifeline, available 24/7 at Home | Lifeline

Shift Happens is brought to you by the Staff Health Team at NSW Ambulance.
Executive Producer: Zoe Wooldridge
With subject matter expertise and podcast support from Chloe Larcombe, Richard High, and Annie Hartley.
Hosted by Paramedics Katie Horky and Timothy Graham.
Technical production by East Coast Studio.

We acknowledge the Wangal people of the Darug Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which this podcast was recorded, and we pay our respects to Elders past and present.

The views and opinions expressed in this content are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of NSW Ambulance. Any content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as endorsement or approval by the organisation. For your individual needs please speak to your health professional.