Ten Minutes With...Mereesha Gadiagellan

Find Mereesha Gadiagellan: Linkedin | Injury Sense | InjurySense on Linkedin

Host Rhea Mercado interviews Mereesha Gadiagellan on The Intelligent Rebellion’s “Ten Minutes With” about workers compensation and injury management. 

Mereesha, a neuroscience-focused occupational therapist and ARPA award winner for exceptional professional injury management advisor, discusses launching her clinical business InjurySense to address cognitive issues in claims, especially concussion and traumatic brain injury.

She explains that concussion recovery is not straightforward and can function like a system-wide capacity problem involving cognition, autonomic nervous system regulation, sleep, energy, pain, and overlapping whiplash symptoms.

Mereesha describes common signs such as fatigue, poor sleep, dizziness, light sensitivity, nausea, and concentration problems, which can progress into anxiety, stress, and depression if untreated. She notes women can have more severe and prolonged symptoms due to hormonal cycles, and urges early referral to concussion-specialist physiotherapy or occupational therapy to reduce dysregulation and claim duration.

00:00 Show Intro

00:56 Meet Mereesha

02:20 InjurySense Explained

03:13 Why Cognition Gets Missed

05:08 Real Claim Example

07:41 Concussion Symptoms 101

08:58 Women and Hormones

10:02 Frontline Tips and Wrap 11:14 Credits and Outro

 

"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion and is a Threesticks Production. 

Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado (R)

The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by Rhea Mercado. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado®.

THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER

The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With...Mereesha Gadiagellan
Find Mereesha Gadiagellan:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mereesha-gad111/">Linkedin</a> | <a href="https://injurysense.com.au/">Injury Sense</a> | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/injury-sense/">InjurySense on Linkedin</a>
Host Rhea Mercado interviews Mereesha Gadiagellan on The Intelligent Rebellion&rsquo;s &ldquo;Ten Minutes With&rdquo; about workers compensation and injury management.&nbsp;
Mereesha, a neuroscience-focused occupational therapist and ARPA award winner for exceptional professional injury management advisor, discusses launching her clinical business InjurySense to address cognitive issues in claims, especially concussion and traumatic brain injury.
She explains that concussion recovery is not straightforward and can function like a system-wide capacity problem involving cognition, autonomic nervous system regulation, sleep, energy, pain, and overlapping whiplash symptoms.
Mereesha describes common signs such as fatigue, poor sleep, dizziness, light sensitivity, nausea, and concentration problems, which can progress into anxiety, stress, and depression if untreated. She notes women can have more severe and prolonged symptoms due to hormonal cycles, and urges early referral to concussion-specialist physiotherapy or occupational therapy to reduce dysregulation and claim duration.
00:00 Show Intro
00:56 Meet Mereesha
02:20 InjurySense Explained
03:13 Why Cognition Gets Missed
05:08 Real Claim Example
07:41 Concussion Symptoms 101
08:58 Women and Hormones
10:02 Frontline Tips and Wrap 11:14 Credits and Outro
&nbsp;
"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> and is a <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production.&nbsp;
Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado (R)
The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by <a href="http://rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a>. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado&reg;.
THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER
The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado&reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With is a fast-paced micro-podcast about personal injury, workers compensation, healthcare and the humans within.

039: Mereesha Gadiagellan

Ten Minutes With... Heath Thomas

Find Heath: Linkedin

"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion and is a Threesticks Production. 

Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado (R)

The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by Rhea Mercado. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado®.

THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER

The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With... Heath Thomas
Find Heath:&nbsp;<a href="https://au.linkedin.com/in/heaththomasaep">Linkedin</a>
"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> and is a <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production.&nbsp;
Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado (R)
The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by <a href="http://rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a>. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado&reg;.
THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER
The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado&reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

038: Heath Thomas

In 2021, we recorded a powerful conversation with James Ellis on "The Intelligent Rebellion" podcast, and its message is more relevant now than ever. This is the 10min version of that conversation. 

This conversation critiques healthcare and return-to-work systems that prioritise KPIs, costs, and profit over seeing patients as people. James and Rhea discuss the ethical tension of running a for-profit healthcare business while maintaining duty of care, and draw a clear line against profit-driven decisions that extend treatment beyond what is ethically and scientifically best.

They explore intuition, when it’s reliable (deep familiarity) and when it misleads (job interviews) and connect it to evidence-based practice, arguing that hunches often spark research while science helps overcome bias, though it can be misused. James emphasises that supporting injured workers requires trust and listening, but billing models and “billable hours” push clinicians toward prescribing over listening, limiting true “hours of care.”

Despite the years that have passed, these topics remain integral to understanding and reforming our approach to healthcare and compensation. The insights shared by James continue to spark thought and drive conversations in our industry today.

We invite you to listen to this episode and reflect on how we can continue to improve our systems for all the humans within.

Listen to the full episode

Find James Ellis: Linkedin | Framework Group |

"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion and is a Threesticks Production. 

Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado (R)

The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by Rhea Mercado. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado®.

THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER

The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties..

In 2021, we recorded a powerful conversation with James Ellis on "The Intelligent Rebellion" podcast, and its message is more relevant now than ever. This is the 10min version of that conversation.&nbsp;
This conversation critiques healthcare and return-to-work systems that prioritise KPIs, costs, and profit over seeing patients as people. James and Rhea discuss the ethical tension of running a for-profit healthcare business while maintaining duty of care, and draw a clear line against profit-driven decisions that extend treatment beyond what is ethically and scientifically best.
They explore intuition, when it&rsquo;s reliable (deep familiarity) and when it misleads (job interviews) and connect it to evidence-based practice, arguing that hunches often spark research while science helps overcome bias, though it can be misused. James emphasises that supporting injured workers requires trust and listening, but billing models and &ldquo;billable hours&rdquo; push clinicians toward prescribing over listening, limiting true &ldquo;hours of care.&rdquo;
Despite the years that have passed, these topics remain integral to understanding and reforming our approach to healthcare and compensation. The insights shared by James continue to spark thought and drive conversations in our industry today.
We invite you to listen to this episode and reflect on how we can continue to improve our systems for all the humans within.
<a href="https://omny.fm/shows/the-intelligent-rebellion/humanising-healthcare-with-james-ellis">Listen to the full episode</a>
Find James Ellis:&nbsp;<a href="www.linkedin.com/in/james-ellis-a66a844">Linkedin</a> | <a href="http://www.frameworkgroup.com.au">Framework Group</a> |
"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> and is a <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production.&nbsp;
Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado (R)
The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by <a href="http://rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a>. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado&reg;.
THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER
The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado&reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties..

Replay: 05 Humanising Healthcare with James Ellis

Ten Minutes With... Luke McGrath

Find Luke: Linkedin |  Allmeds

🔗 The Intelligent Rebellion HQ

"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion and is a Threesticks Production. 

Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado (R)

The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by Rhea Mercado. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado®.

THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER

The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With... Luke McGrath
Find Luke: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-mcgrath-au/">Linkedin</a> | &nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/allmeds-ai/">Allmeds</a>
🔗&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/podcast">The Intelligent Rebellion HQ</a>
"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> and is a <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production.&nbsp;
Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado (R)
The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by <a href="http://rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a>. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado&reg;.
THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER
The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado&reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

036: Luke McGrath

Ten Minutes With... Rachael Ford 

Find Rachael: Linkedin

"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion and is a Threesticks Production. 

Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado (R)

The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by Rhea Mercado. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado®.

THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER

The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With... Rachael Ford 
Find Rachael:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-ford-01a45956/">Linkedin</a>
"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> and is a <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production.&nbsp;
Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado (R)
The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by <a href="http://rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a>. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado&reg;.
THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER
The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado&reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

035: Rachael Ford

Ten Minutes With... Tanya Cambey.

Find Tanya: Linkedin

"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion and is a Threesticks Production. 

Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado (R)

The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by Rhea Mercado. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado®.

THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER

The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With... Tanya Cambey.
Find Tanya: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-cambey-466a5520/">Linkedin</a>
"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> and is a <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production.&nbsp;
Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado (R)
The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by <a href="http://rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a>. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado&reg;.
THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER
The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado&reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With is a fast-paced micro-podcast about personal injury, workers compensation, healthcare and the humans within it. 

034: Tanya Cambey

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/880e7269-8655-45b3-a8a9-aebb0033a633/clips/c19e310d-2917-4e7f-a34c-b405009a1632/transcript

Ten Minutes With is a fast-paced micro-podcast about personal injury, workers compensation, healthcare and the humans within.

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast began as a space for long-form, human conversations about work, health, leadership, creativity, and what it means to build better systems bringing together trusted friends, collaborators, and changemakers to share real stories, challenge dominant narratives, and explore the emotional and ethical realities of modern life.

Ten Minutes With is the evolution of this work.

Made by Compo Nerds for Compo Nerds and still brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion HQ and Threesticks Productions. In each 10-minute episode, I chat with people from across the personal injury ecosystem to talk compo life, injury management, return-to-work, systems, and what’s happening on the ground.

Ten Minutes With is the evolution of this work.

Short enough to fit between meetings. Sharp enough to spark conversations.

If you’re in the industry or #CompoCurious - come on down!

Follow Rhea Mercado: Linkedin | Instagram

"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion and is a Threesticks Production. 

Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado (R)

The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by Rhea Mercado. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado®.

THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER

The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With is a fast-paced micro-podcast about personal injury, workers compensation, healthcare and the humans within.
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast began as a space for long-form, human conversations about work, health, leadership, creativity, and what it means to build better systems bringing together trusted friends, collaborators, and changemakers to share real stories, challenge dominant narratives, and explore the emotional and ethical realities of modern life.
Ten Minutes With is the evolution of this work.
Made by Compo Nerds for Compo Nerds and still brought to you by <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> HQ and <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Productions. In each 10-minute episode, I chat with people from across the personal injury ecosystem to talk compo life, injury management, return-to-work, systems, and what&rsquo;s happening on the ground.
Ten Minutes With is the evolution of this work.
Short enough to fit between meetings. Sharp enough to spark conversations.
If you&rsquo;re in the industry or #CompoCurious - come on down!
Follow Rhea Mercado: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rheamercs/">Linkedin</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rheamercs/">Instagram</a>
"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> and is a <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production.&nbsp;
Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado (R)
The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by <a href="http://rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a>. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado&reg;.
THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER
The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado&reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

033: We're back!!  Ten Minutes With....

Fuck it, I quit. This is a sentiment which Denver Simonsz and Rhea share. Surfing the interweb, Rhea stumbled upon Denver's LinkedIn profile and was instantly intrigued. Denver's posts and articles are a delight to read - a blend of authentic storytelling, wisdom, and introspection. Of course, you can only learn so much about a person from their online presence, so Rhea asked Denver onto the pod for a chat. 

Welcome to Episode 32 of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, Vanquishing Sunday Scaries with Denver Simonsz, a Registered Psychologist and board-approved supervisor.

In this episode:
Reminiscing about the inch-thick Jobs Guide.
The Moment when Denver realised he was burnt out.
The sense of impending doom.
The challenges of supervision in Psychology.
Denver’s ideal system, personalised workflow, and valuing our professionals .
Denver shares what he is most excited for the future of Psychology.

Find Denver Simonsz on Linkedin

Subscribe to The Intelligent Rebellion newsletter.

Are you a personal injury professional working in Australia. Join PIPROC, a community for PI professionals for casual meetups and events.

Join our community at www.theintelligentrebellion.com

Like what we do? Tell a mate. Have a topic you’d like us to explore, or want to suggest a guest? Reach out to us at www.theintelligentrebellion.com

Bits & Pieces: The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast is a Threesticks Production | Producer & Host: Rhea Mercado | Will is our Emperor of Sound, Executive Producer. Theme Song and Original Music written and performed by Will.

Follow us on all the socials. Instagram: @intelligent.rebellion

Rhea Mercado on Instagram: @rheamercs | Linkedin

Copyright 2024 Rhea Mercado® | Threesticks Pty Ltd | The Intelligent Rebellion

Disclaimer: The content of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

This episode and any other episode of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast should not be taken as legal advice. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.

Fuck it, I quit. This is a sentiment which <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/denver-simonsz-9ba6b01b9">Denver Simonsz</a> and Rhea share. Surfing the interweb, Rhea stumbled upon Denver's LinkedIn profile and was instantly intrigued. Denver's <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/denver-simonsz-9ba6b01b9/recent-activity/articles/">posts and articles</a> are a delight to read - a blend of authentic storytelling, wisdom, and introspection. Of course, you can only learn so much about a person from their online presence, so Rhea asked Denver onto the pod for a chat. 
Welcome to Episode 32 of <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/podcast">The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast</a>, Vanquishing Sunday Scaries with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/denver-simonsz-9ba6b01b9">Denver Simonsz</a>, a Registered Psychologist and board-approved supervisor.
In this episode:
<ul>
<li>Reminiscing about the inch-thick Jobs Guide.</li>
<li>The Moment when Denver realised he was burnt out.</li>
<li>The sense of impending doom.</li>
<li>The challenges of supervision in Psychology.</li>
<li>Denver’s ideal system, personalised workflow, and valuing our professionals .</li>
<li>Denver shares what he is most excited for the future of Psychology.</li>
</ul>
Find Denver Simonsz on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/denver-simonsz-9ba6b01b9">Linkedin</a>  
<a href="https://rheamercado.substack.com/">Subscribe</a> to The Intelligent Rebellion newsletter.
Are you a personal injury professional working in Australia. Join <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/piproc">PIPROC</a>, a community for PI professionals for casual meetups and events.
Join our community at <a href="http://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">www.theintelligentrebellion.com</a>
Like what we do? Tell a mate. Have a topic you’d like us to explore, or want to suggest a guest? Reach out to us at <a href="http://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">www.theintelligentrebellion.com</a>
Bits &amp; Pieces: <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/podcast">The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast</a> is a <a href="http://www.threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production | Producer &amp; Host: <a href="https://www.rheamercado.com.au/">Rhea Mercado</a> | Will is our Emperor of Sound, Executive Producer. Theme Song and Original Music written and performed by Will.
Follow us on all the socials. Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/intelligent.rebellion">@intelligent.rebellion</a>
Rhea Mercado on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rheamercs">@rheamercs</a> | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rheamercs">Linkedin</a> 
Copyright 2024 <a href="https://www.rheamercado.com.au">Rhea Mercado</a>® | <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks Pty Ltd</a> | <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a>
Disclaimer: The content of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.
This episode and any other episode of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast should not be taken as legal advice. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.

Vanquishing Sunday Scaries with Denver Simonsz

In 2023, Australia became the first country in the world to legalise the use of psychedelics to treat PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. Welcome to Episode #31 of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast. Sporulation, Psychedelics and Healthcare. 

In this episode of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, I chat with Melissa Errey, founder of Sporulation Art Exhibition and healthcare professional, and Voytek Bereza, a Neuropsychopharmacist Prescriber and founder of The Transparent Company.

In this episode:
About the Sporulation Art Exhibition (23 April 2024 to 5 May 2024)
The role of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for mental health conditions
Introspection, Intuition and psychedelics
Psychedelic experiences during a trip and percolation from unconscious to the conscious mind
Emergence of clinical research trials and harm minimisation

July 1st 2023 is when Australia became the first country in the world to legalise the use of psychedelics to treat some mental health conditions. From July 1st 2023 psychiatrists were authorised to prescribe products containing 3,4‑methylenedioxy‑methamphetamine (MDMA) or psilocybin for use in psychedelic assisted psychotherapy to treat specific mental health conditions.  

MDMA may be prescribed for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Psilocybin may be prescribed for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). For these specific uses, psilocybin and MDMA have been listed as Schedule 8 (Controlled Drugs) medicines in the Poisons Standard.

To be able to prescribe MDMA or psilocybin for these conditions, a psychiatrist must be an Authorised Prescriber (AP) under the TGA’s Authorised Prescriber scheme. Before seeking approval to be an AP, the psychiatrist must first obtain approval from a Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC).

It was quite serendipitous that I was to meet Melissa Errey in October 2023, only three months later. It’s turns out, Melissa a health professional by day, and an artist by night was already part of a community of people from all walks of life, who were exploring and discussing the role of psychedelics in healthcare and in medicine.

Melissa Errey:Linkedin

Sporulation Exhibition:Sporulation Exhibition | Instagram | Facebook | Linkedin

Voytek Bereza: Linkedin | The Transparent Company and on Linkedin

Sporulation Events & Tickets
EMPATHS: Integrative Psychedelic Somatic Psychotherapy
Workshops: Psychedelic Trees, Fungi and Cacti Workshops
Australian Psychedelic Society – Sydney Chapter Picnic

More information:
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Australia: legal treatment options, clinical research trials and harm minimisation
Therapeutic Goods Admistration Change to classification of psilocybin and MDMA to enable prescribing by authorised psychiatrists

Bits & Pieces: The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast is a Threesticks Production | Producer & Host: Rhea Mercado | Will is our Emperor of Sound, Executive Producer. Theme Song and Original Music written and performed by Will.

Follow us on all the socials. Instagram: @intelligent.rebellion

Rhea Mercado on Instagram: @rheamercs | Linkedin

Copyright 2023 Rhea Mercado® | Threesticks Pty Ltd | The Intelligent Rebellion

Disclaimer: The content of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

This episode and any other episode of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast should not be taken as legal advice. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.

In 2023, Australia became the first country in the world to legalise the use of psychedelics to treat PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. Welcome to Episode #31 of <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/podcast">The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast</a>. Sporulation, Psychedelics and Healthcare. 
In this episode of <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/podcast">The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast</a>, I chat with <a href="http://linkedin.com/in/melissa-errey-3b73463b">Melissa Errey</a>, founder of <a href="http://www.sporulation.online">Sporulation Art Exhibition</a> and healthcare professional, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wojtek-bereza/">Voytek Bereza</a>, a Neuropsychopharmacist Prescriber and founder of <a href="https://thetransparent.company/">The Transparent Company</a>.
In this episode:
<ul>
<li>About the Sporulation Art Exhibition (23 April 2024 to 5 May 2024)</li>
<li>The role of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for mental health conditions</li>
<li>Introspection, Intuition and psychedelics</li>
<li>Psychedelic experiences during a trip and percolation from unconscious to the conscious mind</li>
<li>Emergence of clinical research trials and harm minimisation</li>
</ul>
July 1st 2023 is when Australia became the first country in the world to legalise the use of psychedelics to treat some mental health conditions. From July 1st 2023 psychiatrists were authorised to prescribe products containing 3,4‑methylenedioxy‑methamphetamine (MDMA) or psilocybin for use in psychedelic assisted psychotherapy to treat specific mental health conditions.  
MDMA may be prescribed for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Psilocybin may be prescribed for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). For these specific uses, psilocybin and MDMA have been listed as Schedule 8 (Controlled Drugs) medicines in the Poisons Standard.
To be able to prescribe MDMA or psilocybin for these conditions, a psychiatrist must be an Authorised Prescriber (AP) under the TGA’s Authorised Prescriber scheme. Before seeking approval to be an AP, the psychiatrist must first obtain approval from a <a href="https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/research-policy/ethics/human-research-ethics-committees">Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC).</a>
It was quite serendipitous that I was to meet Melissa Errey in October 2023, only three months later. It’s turns out, Melissa a health professional by day, and an artist by night was already part of a community of people from all walks of life, who were exploring and discussing the role of psychedelics in healthcare and in medicine.
Melissa Errey: <a href="http://linkedin.com/in/melissa-errey-3b73463b">Linkedin</a> 
Sporulation Exhibition: <a href="https://sporulation.online/">Sporulation Exhibition</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sporulationart/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SporulationArt">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/sporulation/">Linkedin</a>
Voytek Bereza: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/wojtek-bereza/">Linkedin</a> | <a href="https://thetransparent.company/">The Transparent Company</a> and on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-transparent-company/">Linkedin</a> 
Sporulation Events &amp; Tickets
<ol>
<li><a href="https://events.humanitix.com/psychedelic-integrative-somatic-psychotherapy-at-sporulation-the-gong-dr-lani-roy">EMPATHS: Integrative Psychedelic Somatic Psychotherapy</a></li>
<li><a href="https://events.humanitix.com/psychedelic-trees-fungi-and-cacti-workshops-wollongong">Workshops: Psychedelic Trees, Fungi and Cacti Workshops</a></li>
<li><a href="https://fb.me/e/4iGk2fwQB">Australian Psychedelic Society – Sydney Chapter Picnic</a></li>
</ol>
More information:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://events.humanitix.com/psychedelic-assisted-therapy-in-australia-legal-treatment-options-clinical-research-trials-and-harm-minimisation">Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Australia: legal treatment options, clinical research trials and harm minimisation</a></li>
<li>Therapeutic Goods Admistration <a href="https://www.tga.gov.au/news/media-releases/change-classification-psilocybin-and-mdma-enable-prescribing-authorised-psychiatrists">Change to classification of psilocybin and MDMA to enable prescribing by authorised psychiatrists</a></li>
</ul>
Bits &amp; Pieces: <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/podcast">The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast</a> is a <a href="http://www.threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production | Producer &amp; Host: <a href="https://www.rheamercado.com.au/">Rhea Mercado</a> | Will is our Emperor of Sound, Executive Producer. Theme Song and Original Music written and performed by Will.
Follow us on all the socials. Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/intelligent.rebellion">@intelligent.rebellion</a>
Rhea Mercado on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rheamercs">@rheamercs</a> | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rheamercs">Linkedin</a> 
Copyright 2023 <a href="https://www.rheamercado.com.au">Rhea Mercado</a>® | <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks Pty Ltd</a> | <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a>
Disclaimer: The content of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.
This episode and any other episode of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast should not be taken as legal advice. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.

Sporulation, Psychedelics, and Healthcare with Melissa Errey and Voytek Bereza

Content Warning: Before we begin, we want to let you know that this episode contains discussions about the sensitive topic of sexual abuse. Please prioritise your health and well-being, and if this is an episode you choose to skip, we’ll see you at the next one.

Welcome to episode 30 of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast: Let's Talk About Sex. Our guest is Saul Isbister, President of Touching Base Inc  A volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation, developed out of the need to assist people with disability and sex workers to connect with each other, focusing on access, discrimination, human rights and legal issues and the attitudinal barriers that these two marginalised communities can face.

Since episode 19 when Anjelo Ratnachandra and I touched on the subject of intimacy, sex, and chronic pain, I’ve continued to wonder and be curious about the topic of intimacy and sex, particularly in the personal injury and disability space. Healthcare professionals and rehab people are always going on about holistic care, and a biopsychosocial approach, and, a part of that is acknowledging that sexual and physical intimacy are at the core to the human experience.

In this episode, Saul and Rhea discuss:
Touching Base Inc, its origin story, vision, mission, and values.
What are sex work services, and how people can access the service.
The challenges Touching Base face in achieving their mission.
What Saul is hopeful and optimistic about.

Touching Base Inc: Website | NDIS & sex work resource | Scarlet Road Documentary

Instagram: Sexuality Education, Counselling, and Consultancy Agency @secca_org | Undressing Disability @undressingdisability

Bits and pieces:The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast is a Threesticks Production | Producer & Host: Rhea Mercado | Will is our Emperor of Sound, Executive Producer. Theme Song and Original Music written and performed by Will.

Follow us on all the socials. Instagram: @intelligent.rebellion

Rhea Mercado on Instagram: @rheamercs | Linkedin

Copyright 2024 Rhea Mercado® | Threesticks Pty Ltd | The Intelligent Rebellion

Disclaimer: The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

This episode and any other episode of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast should not be taken as legal advice. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Content Warning: Before we begin, we want to let you know that this episode contains discussions about the sensitive topic of sexual abuse. Please prioritise your health and well-being, and if this is an episode you choose to skip, we’ll see you at the next one.
Welcome to episode 30 of <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/podcast">The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast:</a> Let's Talk About Sex. Our guest is Saul Isbister, President of T<a href="https://www.touchingbase.org/">ouching Base Inc</a>  A volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation, developed out of the need to assist people with disability and sex workers to connect with each other, focusing on access, discrimination, human rights and legal issues and the attitudinal barriers that these two marginalised communities can face.
Since episode 19 when Anjelo Ratnachandra and I touched on the subject of intimacy, sex, and chronic pain, I’ve continued to wonder and be curious about the topic of intimacy and sex, particularly in the personal injury and disability space. Healthcare professionals and rehab people are always going on about holistic care, and a biopsychosocial approach, and, a part of that is acknowledging that sexual and physical intimacy are at the core to the human experience.
In this episode, Saul and Rhea discuss:
<ul>
<li>Touching Base Inc, its origin story, vision, mission, and values.</li>
<li>What are sex work services, and how people can access the service.</li>
<li>The challenges Touching Base face in achieving their mission.</li>
<li>What Saul is hopeful and optimistic about.</li>
</ul>
Touching Base Inc: <a href="https://www.touchingbase.org/">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.touchingbase.org/resources/">NDIS &amp; sex work resource</a> | <a href="https://www.scarletroad.com.au/trailer/">Scarlet Road Documentary</a>
Instagram: Sexuality Education, Counselling, and Consultancy Agency <a href="https://www.instagram.com/secca_org">@secca_org</a> | Undressing Disability <a href="https://www.instagram.com/undressingdisability">@undressingdisability</a>
Bits and pieces: <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/podcast">The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast</a> is a <a href="http://www.threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production | Producer &amp; Host: <a href="https://www.rheamercado.com.au/">Rhea Mercado</a> | Will is our Emperor of Sound, Executive Producer. Theme Song and Original Music written and performed by Will.
Follow us on all the socials. Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/intelligent.rebellion">@intelligent.rebellion</a>
Rhea Mercado on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rheamercs">@rheamercs</a> | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rheamercs">Linkedin</a> 
Copyright 2024 <a href="https://www.rheamercado.com.au">Rhea Mercado</a>® | <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks Pty Ltd</a> | <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a>
Disclaimer: The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
This episode and any other episode of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast should not be taken as legal advice. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.
Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Let's Talk About Sex with Saul Isbister

Step into the world of The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, your gateway to a brighter tomorrow! Join us as we embark on a transformative journey, led by Rhea Mercado, a Healthcare Humanist, Speaker, and Author who fearlessly challenges the status quo within corporate corridors, paving the way for diverse voices to shine.

In this podcast series, Rhea engages in enlightening conversations with a circle of trusted friends and esteemed colleagues to drop truth bombs, share heartfelt stories, and profound reflections on their individual paths, all while envisioning a better world. Our candid and thought-provoking discussions are a refreshing departure from the ordinary. They transcend the boundaries of convention, swiftly evolving into dynamic dialogues about life's intricacies, the world of work, maintaining optimal health, navigating ethical dilemmas, embracing failure, and reveling in the sheer beauty of humanity. Subscribe to access premium content and extended episodes.

These conversations are more than just words; they are a testament to personal rebellions, as we collectively challenge established norms and celebrate the values of compassion, boundless optimism, unbridled creativity, and the limitless power of imagination. Join us in the rebellion for a brighter, more inclusive future.

There are profanities, fart jokes and major gaffes and some topics discussed could be triggering to some, so please use your own discretion.

Follow us at:  The Intelligent Rebellion | Instagram | Linkedin

Find Rhea: Rhea Mercado | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

Bits & Pieces: The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast is a Threesticks Production | Producer & Host: Rhea Mercado | Emperor of Sound, Original Music, and Executive Producer: Wills. Copyright 2022 Rhea Mercado®.

Rhea Mercado and the team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging.

Disclaimer to cover our butt: 

The content of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advise which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.

Rhea Mercado ® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado®

Step into the world of <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> Podcast, your gateway to a brighter tomorrow! Join us as we embark on a transformative journey, led by <a href="https://www.rheamercado.com.au">Rhea Mercado</a>, a Healthcare Humanist, Speaker, and Author who fearlessly challenges the status quo within corporate corridors, paving the way for diverse voices to shine.
In this podcast series, Rhea engages in enlightening conversations with a circle of trusted friends and esteemed colleagues to drop truth bombs, share heartfelt stories, and profound reflections on their individual paths, all while envisioning a better world. Our candid and thought-provoking discussions are a refreshing departure from the ordinary. They transcend the boundaries of convention, swiftly evolving into dynamic dialogues about life's intricacies, the world of work, maintaining optimal health, navigating ethical dilemmas, embracing failure, and reveling in the sheer beauty of humanity. <a href="https://rheamercado.substack.com/">Subscribe</a> to access premium content and extended episodes.
These conversations are more than just words; they are a testament to personal rebellions, as we collectively challenge established norms and celebrate the values of compassion, boundless optimism, unbridled creativity, and the limitless power of imagination. Join us in the rebellion for a brighter, more inclusive future.
There are profanities, fart jokes and major gaffes and some topics discussed could be triggering to some, so please use your own discretion.
Follow us at:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/">The Intelligent Rebellion</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/intelligent.rebellion/">Instagram</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="linkedin.com/company/the-intelligent-rebellion">Linkedin</a>
Find Rhea:&nbsp;<a href="https://bio.site/rheamercado">Rhea Mercado</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rheamercs/">LinkedIn</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/rheamercs">Instagram</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/rheamercs">Facebook</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/rheamercs">Twitter</a>
Bits &amp; Pieces: The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast is a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a>&nbsp;Production | Producer &amp; Host:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a>&nbsp;| Emperor of Sound, Original Music, and Executive Producer: Wills. Copyright 2022 Rhea Mercado&reg;.
Rhea Mercado and the team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging.
Disclaimer to cover our butt:&nbsp;
The content of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advise which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.
Rhea Mercado &reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.
Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado&reg;

Exploring businesses which celebrate compassion, optimism, imagination and humanity.

The Intelligent Rebellion

Ten Minutes With is a fast-paced micro-podcast about personal injury, workers compensation, healthcare and the humans within.

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast began as a space for long-form, human conversations about work, health, leadership, creativity, and what it means to build better systems bringing together trusted friends, collaborators, and changemakers to share real stories, challenge dominant narratives, and explore the emotional and ethical realities of modern life.

Ten Minutes With is the evolution of this work.

Made by Compo Nerds for Compo Nerds and still brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion HQ and Threesticks Productions. In each 10-minute episode, I chat with people from across the personal injury ecosystem to talk compo life, injury management, return-to-work, systems, and what’s happening on the ground.

Short enough to fit between meetings. Sharp enough to spark conversations.

If you’re in the industry or #CompoCurious - come on down!

Follow Rhea Mercado: Linkedin | Instagram

"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by The Intelligent Rebellion and is a Threesticks Production. 

Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado (R)

The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging

The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by Rhea Mercado. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd & Rhea Mercado®.

THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER

The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With is a fast-paced micro-podcast about personal injury, workers compensation, healthcare and the humans within.
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast began as a space for long-form, human conversations about work, health, leadership, creativity, and what it means to build better systems bringing together trusted friends, collaborators, and changemakers to share real stories, challenge dominant narratives, and explore the emotional and ethical realities of modern life.
Ten Minutes With is the evolution of this work.
Made by Compo Nerds for Compo Nerds and still brought to you by <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> HQ and <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Productions. In each 10-minute episode, I chat with people from across the personal injury ecosystem to talk compo life, injury management, return-to-work, systems, and what&rsquo;s happening on the ground.
Short enough to fit between meetings. Sharp enough to spark conversations.
If you&rsquo;re in the industry or #CompoCurious - come on down!
Follow Rhea Mercado:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rheamercs/">Linkedin</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rheamercs/">Instagram</a>
"Ten Minutes With" is brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> and is a <a href="https://threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production.&nbsp;
Copyright (c) Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado (R)
The team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging
The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast, and Ten Minutes With Podcast is a Threesticks Production. Hosted and Produced by <a href="http://rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a>. Our Emperor of Sound, Original Music Man and Executive Producer is Wills. Copyright 2026 Threesticks Pty Ltd &amp; Rhea Mercado&reg;.
THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER
The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado&reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Ten Minutes With by The Intelligent Rebellion

Dr Isabel King, Policy and Advocacy Advisor at Exercise & Sports Science Australia, interviews Rhea Mercado, an exercise physiologist with over 21 years of experience in workers' compensation, to unpack the recent New South Wales Workers' Compensation reforms and what they mean for exercise physiologists on the ground.

Rhea cuts through the noise with clarity and warmth, breaking down why reform was necessary, what's actually changed, and most importantly, EPs can not just survive but genuinely thrive within the updated scheme.

Rhea explains the scheme faced a massive deficit and a 64% rise in psychological claims, making sustainability and cost efficiency unavoidable, and clarifies scheme agents manage claims rather than underwrite risk. She highlights key reform impacts for ESSA members: tighter, faster and more forensic decision-making focused on medical/treatment entitlements, return to work and prevention, including a 42-day liability decision window for psychological claims where treatment can cease if liability is declined.

The discussion emphasises “scheme literacy” alongside evidence-based care: translating clinical measures into functional work capacity, aligning goals to certificates of capacity, “bundling goals,” “consistently creeping capacity,” reducing weekly benefits by increasing work capacity, and proactively building rapport and communicating with claims managers.

Copyright Notice

This video is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise & Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion

Dr Isabel King, Policy and Advocacy Advisor at Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia, interviews Rhea Mercado, an exercise physiologist with over 21 years of experience in workers' compensation, to unpack the recent New South Wales Workers' Compensation reforms and what they mean for exercise physiologists on the ground.
Rhea cuts through the noise with clarity and warmth, breaking down why reform was necessary, what's actually changed, and most importantly, EPs can not just survive but genuinely thrive within the updated scheme.
Rhea explains the scheme faced a massive deficit and a 64% rise in psychological claims, making sustainability and cost efficiency unavoidable, and clarifies scheme agents manage claims rather than underwrite risk. She highlights key reform impacts for ESSA members: tighter, faster and more forensic decision-making focused on medical/treatment entitlements, return to work and prevention, including a 42-day liability decision window for psychological claims where treatment can cease if liability is declined.
The discussion emphasises &ldquo;scheme literacy&rdquo; alongside evidence-based care: translating clinical measures into functional work capacity, aligning goals to certificates of capacity, &ldquo;bundling goals,&rdquo; &ldquo;consistently creeping capacity,&rdquo; reducing weekly benefits by increasing work capacity, and proactively building rapport and communicating with claims managers.
Copyright Notice
This video is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion

Dive into the latest New South Wales Workers Compensation reforms with Dr. Isabel King & Rhea Mercado! 🩺💼 Discover how exercise physiologists can thrive and demonstrate their value. Tune in for insights on scheme literacy, early intervention, and more! 

Trailer: Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado

This is part 2 of Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr Isabel King, Policy and Advocacy Advisor at Exercise & Sports Science Australia, interviews Rhea Mercado, an exercise physiologist with over 21 years of experience in workers' compensation, to unpack the recent New South Wales Workers' Compensation reforms and what they mean for exercise physiologists on the ground.

Rhea cuts through the noise with clarity and warmth, breaking down why reform was necessary, what's actually changed, and most importantly, EPs can not just survive but genuinely thrive within the updated scheme.

Rhea explains the scheme faced a massive deficit and a 64% rise in psychological claims, making sustainability and cost efficiency unavoidable, and clarifies scheme agents manage claims rather than underwrite risk. She highlights key reform impacts for ESSA members: tighter, faster and more forensic decision-making focused on medical/treatment entitlements, return to work and prevention, including a 42-day liability decision window for psychological claims where treatment can cease if liability is declined.

The discussion emphasises “scheme literacy” alongside evidence-based care: translating clinical measures into functional work capacity, aligning goals to certificates of capacity, “bundling goals,” “consistently creeping capacity,” reducing weekly benefits by increasing work capacity, and proactively building rapport and communicating with claims managers.

Part 1:

00:00 ESSA Dr Isabel King x Rhea Mercado NSW Workers Compensation Reforms

00:09 Introduction

01:58 Why reform was needed

04:36 What are the changes?

05:54 Scheme Literacy

06:50 How to Navigate the System

08:57 Translating your clinical findings

09:30 Provisional Liability for Psychological Claims

 

Part 2 delves into:

12:01 Tighter Definitions for Psychological Injury

12:47 Tip: Look at the Certificate of Capacity

15:09 Bundling Goals & Consistently Creeping Capacity

16:24 How EPs demonstrate their value

19:02 Claims Managers are Humans Too 

21:14 Developing Trust and Rapport

24:07 The Mindset Shift

26:06 Closing and Thanks

 

This is part 2 of Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr Isabel King, Policy and Advocacy Advisor at Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia, interviews Rhea Mercado, an exercise physiologist with over 21 years of experience in workers' compensation, to unpack the recent New South Wales Workers' Compensation reforms and what they mean for exercise physiologists on the ground.
Rhea cuts through the noise with clarity and warmth, breaking down why reform was necessary, what's actually changed, and most importantly, EPs can not just survive but genuinely thrive within the updated scheme.
Rhea explains the scheme faced a massive deficit and a 64% rise in psychological claims, making sustainability and cost efficiency unavoidable, and clarifies scheme agents manage claims rather than underwrite risk. She highlights key reform impacts for ESSA members: tighter, faster and more forensic decision-making focused on medical/treatment entitlements, return to work and prevention, including a 42-day liability decision window for psychological claims where treatment can cease if liability is declined.
The discussion emphasises &ldquo;scheme literacy&rdquo; alongside evidence-based care: translating clinical measures into functional work capacity, aligning goals to certificates of capacity, &ldquo;bundling goals,&rdquo; &ldquo;consistently creeping capacity,&rdquo; reducing weekly benefits by increasing work capacity, and proactively building rapport and communicating with claims managers.
Part 1:
00:00 ESSA Dr Isabel King x Rhea Mercado NSW Workers Compensation Reforms
00:09 Introduction
01:58 Why reform was needed
04:36 What are the changes?
05:54 Scheme Literacy
06:50 How to Navigate the System
08:57 Translating your clinical findings
09:30 Provisional Liability for Psychological Claims
&nbsp;
Part 2 delves into:
12:01 Tighter Definitions for Psychological Injury
12:47 Tip: Look at the Certificate of Capacity
15:09 Bundling Goals &amp; Consistently Creeping Capacity
16:24 How EPs demonstrate their value
19:02 Claims Managers are Humans Too&nbsp;
21:14 Developing Trust and Rapport
24:07 The Mindset Shift
26:06 Closing and Thanks
&nbsp;

Part 2: Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado

In this episode, Dr Isabel King, Policy and Advocacy Advisor at Exercise & Sports Science Australia, interviews Rhea Mercado, an exercise physiologist with over 21 years of experience in workers' compensation, to unpack the recent New South Wales Workers' Compensation reforms and what they mean for exercise physiologists on the ground.

Rhea cuts through the noise with clarity and warmth, breaking down why reform was necessary, what's actually changed, and most importantly, EPs can not just survive but genuinely thrive within the updated scheme.

Rhea explains the scheme faced a massive deficit and a 64% rise in psychological claims, making sustainability and cost efficiency unavoidable, and clarifies scheme agents manage claims rather than underwrite risk. She highlights key reform impacts for ESSA members: tighter, faster and more forensic decision-making focused on medical/treatment entitlements, return to work and prevention, including a 42-day liability decision window for psychological claims where treatment can cease if liability is declined.

The discussion emphasises “scheme literacy” alongside evidence-based care: translating clinical measures into functional work capacity, aligning goals to certificates of capacity, “bundling goals,” “consistently creeping capacity,” reducing weekly benefits by increasing work capacity, and proactively building rapport and communicating with claims managers.

00:00 ESSA Dr Isabel King x Rhea Mercado NSW Workers Compensation Reforms

00:09 Introduction

01:58 Why reform was needed

04:36 What are the changes?

05:54 Scheme Literacy

06:50 How to Navigate the System

08:57 Translating your clinical findings

09:30 Provisional Liability for Psychological Claims

 

Part 2 delves into:

12:01 Tighter Definitions for Psychological Injury

12:47 Tip: Look at the Certificate of Capacity

15:09 Bundling Goals & Consistently Creeping Capacity

16:24 How EPs demonstrate their value

19:02 Claims Managers are Humans Too 

21:14 Developing Trust and Rapport

24:07 The Mindset Shift

26:06 Closing and Thanks

 

In this episode, Dr Isabel King, Policy and Advocacy Advisor at Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia, interviews Rhea Mercado, an exercise physiologist with over 21 years of experience in workers' compensation, to unpack the recent New South Wales Workers' Compensation reforms and what they mean for exercise physiologists on the ground.
Rhea cuts through the noise with clarity and warmth, breaking down why reform was necessary, what's actually changed, and most importantly, EPs can not just survive but genuinely thrive within the updated scheme.
Rhea explains the scheme faced a massive deficit and a 64% rise in psychological claims, making sustainability and cost efficiency unavoidable, and clarifies scheme agents manage claims rather than underwrite risk. She highlights key reform impacts for ESSA members: tighter, faster and more forensic decision-making focused on medical/treatment entitlements, return to work and prevention, including a 42-day liability decision window for psychological claims where treatment can cease if liability is declined.
The discussion emphasises &ldquo;scheme literacy&rdquo; alongside evidence-based care: translating clinical measures into functional work capacity, aligning goals to certificates of capacity, &ldquo;bundling goals,&rdquo; &ldquo;consistently creeping capacity,&rdquo; reducing weekly benefits by increasing work capacity, and proactively building rapport and communicating with claims managers.
00:00 ESSA Dr Isabel King x Rhea Mercado NSW Workers Compensation Reforms
00:09 Introduction
01:58 Why reform was needed
04:36 What are the changes?
05:54 Scheme Literacy
06:50 How to Navigate the System
08:57 Translating your clinical findings
09:30 Provisional Liability for Psychological Claims
&nbsp;
Part 2 delves into:
12:01 Tighter Definitions for Psychological Injury
12:47 Tip: Look at the Certificate of Capacity
15:09 Bundling Goals &amp; Consistently Creeping Capacity
16:24 How EPs demonstrate their value
19:02 Claims Managers are Humans Too&nbsp;
21:14 Developing Trust and Rapport
24:07 The Mindset Shift
26:06 Closing and Thanks
&nbsp;

Part 1: Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado

This is a short from "Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado"

Dr Isabel King and Rhea Mercado discuss communicating with Claims Managers in Workers Compensation. Case managers are doing a very difficult job and the role of clinicians should adjust their language and reporting to match scheme needs, noting that technical measures like degrees of flexion may not be meaningful to a claims manager.

The conversation highlights the scrutiny claims managers face including decisions and reports may be litigated, phone calls recorded and reviewed, and large volumes of requests assessed against regulations and policies. The key takeaway is for Eps to help claims managers make decisions by writing in understandable language and maintaining direct communication.

00:00 Case Managers

00:07 Case / Claims Managers

Copyright Notice

This video is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise & Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion

This is a short from "Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado"
Dr Isabel King and Rhea Mercado discuss communicating with Claims Managers in Workers Compensation. Case managers are doing a very difficult job and the role of clinicians should adjust their language and reporting to match scheme needs, noting that technical measures like degrees of flexion may not be meaningful to a claims manager.
The conversation highlights the scrutiny claims managers face including decisions and reports may be litigated, phone calls recorded and reviewed, and large volumes of requests assessed against regulations and policies. The key takeaway is for Eps to help claims managers make decisions by writing in understandable language and maintaining direct communication.
00:00 Case Managers
00:07 Case / Claims Managers
Copyright Notice
This video is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion

Shorts: Claims Managers are Humans Too

This is a short from "Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado"

Scheme Literacy: Translating Clinical Evidence for Workers Compensation Decisions

Dr Isabel King and Rhea Mercado discuss reframing what “evidence” means in workers’ compensation, emphasising that it is used for liability and approval decisions rather than only clinical research. They note that clinical care and compensation scheme decision-making run in parallel, creating complexity. They define being “scheme literate” as understanding how clinicians make treatment plans and reports and how these are interpreted within the compensation framework, including interpreting outcome measures and communicating them effectively. An example is provided where reporting 110 degrees of shoulder flexion is less useful than explaining how that measurement translates to functional capacity, such as performing overhead work, in a workers’ compensation-friendly message.

00:00 Evidence Reframed

00:16 Parallel Decisions

00:31 Scheme Literacy Basics

00:47 Outcome Measures Translation

00:52 Shoulder Flexion Example

Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado

Copyright Notice

This video is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise & Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion

This is a short from "Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado"
Scheme Literacy: Translating Clinical Evidence for Workers Compensation Decisions
Dr Isabel King and Rhea Mercado discuss reframing what &ldquo;evidence&rdquo; means in workers&rsquo; compensation, emphasising that it is used for liability and approval decisions rather than only clinical research. They note that clinical care and compensation scheme decision-making run in parallel, creating complexity. They define being &ldquo;scheme literate&rdquo; as understanding how clinicians make treatment plans and reports and how these are interpreted within the compensation framework, including interpreting outcome measures and communicating them effectively. An example is provided where reporting 110 degrees of shoulder flexion is less useful than explaining how that measurement translates to functional capacity, such as performing overhead work, in a workers&rsquo; compensation-friendly message.
00:00 Evidence Reframed
00:16 Parallel Decisions
00:31 Scheme Literacy Basics
00:47 Outcome Measures Translation
00:52 Shoulder Flexion Example
Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado
Copyright Notice
This video is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion

Shorts: Scheme Literacy for Clinicians in Workers Compensation

Demonstrating Exercise Physiology Value Through Scheme Literacy and Return-to-Work Outcomes

Rhea and Isabel discuss how exercise physiologists and ESSA members can better demonstrate their value in early intervention within the New South Wales workers compensation system to avoid being sidelined. Rhea emphasises that while stakeholders may want clearer economic value supported by improved data collection, in the meantime professionals can show value by building “scheme literacy” and understanding cost drivers. The speaker explains that the most expensive part of a claim is weekly benefits paid when someone is off work or on reduced duties, and that increasing a person’s functional capacity to return to work—even for a few hours a day—reduces these benefits and overall claim costs. Clinicians should link treatment plans to measurable work capacity improvements, showing progression from no capacity to suitable duties, which strengthens their case with doctors and claims managers.

00:00 How can EPs demonstrate their value - Navigating NSW Workers Compensation Reforms with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado

00:02 How EPs can demonstrate their value


This is a clip from: Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado

Copyright Notice

This video and audio is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise & Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion

Demonstrating Exercise Physiology Value Through Scheme Literacy and Return-to-Work Outcomes
Rhea and Isabel discuss how exercise physiologists and ESSA members can better demonstrate their value in early intervention within the New South Wales workers compensation system to avoid being sidelined. Rhea emphasises that while stakeholders may want clearer economic value supported by improved data collection, in the meantime professionals can show value by building &ldquo;scheme literacy&rdquo; and understanding cost drivers. The speaker explains that the most expensive part of a claim is weekly benefits paid when someone is off work or on reduced duties, and that increasing a person&rsquo;s functional capacity to return to work&mdash;even for a few hours a day&mdash;reduces these benefits and overall claim costs. Clinicians should link treatment plans to measurable work capacity improvements, showing progression from no capacity to suitable duties, which strengthens their case with doctors and claims managers.
00:00 How can EPs demonstrate their value - Navigating NSW Workers Compensation Reforms with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado
00:02 How EPs can demonstrate their value
 This is a clip from: Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado
Copyright Notice
This video and audio is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion

Shorts: The value of exercise physiologists in workers compensation.

Dr Isabel King, Policy and Advocacy Advisor at Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA), interviews Rhea Mercado (Healthcare Humanist, Injury Management Specialist and CompoNerd) about New South Wales workers compensation reforms and what they mean for exercise physiologists. 

Rhea explains the scheme faced a massive deficit and a 64% rise in psychological claims, making sustainability and cost efficiency unavoidable, and clarifies scheme agents manage claims rather than underwrite risk.

She highlights key reform impacts for ESSA members: tighter, faster and more forensic decision-making focused on medical/treatment entitlements, return to work and prevention, including a 42-day liability decision window for psychological claims where treatment can cease if liability is declined.

The discussion emphasises “scheme literacy” alongside evidence-based care: translating clinical measures into functional work capacity, aligning goals to certificates of capacity, “bundling goals,” “consistently creeping capacity,” reducing weekly benefits by increasing work capacity, and proactively building rapport and communicating with claims managers.

Exercise & Sports Science Australia | Dr Isabel King on Linkedin

The Intelligent Rebellion | Rhea on Linkedin

Recorded on 9 February 2026 at Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.

Copyright Notice

This production is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise & Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion

THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER

The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.

Rhea Mercado® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Dr Isabel King, Policy and Advocacy Advisor at Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia (ESSA), interviews Rhea Mercado (Healthcare Humanist, Injury Management Specialist and CompoNerd) about New South Wales workers compensation reforms and what they mean for exercise physiologists.&nbsp;
Rhea explains the scheme faced a massive deficit and a 64% rise in psychological claims, making sustainability and cost efficiency unavoidable, and clarifies scheme agents manage claims rather than underwrite risk.
She highlights key reform impacts for ESSA members: tighter, faster and more forensic decision-making focused on medical/treatment entitlements, return to work and prevention, including a 42-day liability decision window for psychological claims where treatment can cease if liability is declined.
The discussion emphasises &ldquo;scheme literacy&rdquo; alongside evidence-based care: translating clinical measures into functional work capacity, aligning goals to certificates of capacity, &ldquo;bundling goals,&rdquo; &ldquo;consistently creeping capacity,&rdquo; reducing weekly benefits by increasing work capacity, and proactively building rapport and communicating with claims managers.
<a href="https://www.essa.org.au/">Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia</a> | Dr Isabel King on <a href="https://au.linkedin.com/in/drisabelking">Linkedin</a>
<a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> | Rhea on <a href="https://au.linkedin.com/in/rheamercs">Linkedin</a>
Recorded on 9 February 2026 at Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
Copyright Notice
This production is brought to you by Threesticks Productions, Rhea Mercado HQ and The Intelligent Rebellion in collaboration with Exercise &amp; Sports Science Australia. Copyright Threesticks Pty Ltd, Rhea Mercado, The Intelligent Rebellion
THE BIG PRINT - DISCLAIMER
The contents of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes. The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado&reg; and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional rehabilitation advice, injury management advice, rehabilitation advice, medical advice, legal advice, financial advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advice which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances and specific needs.
Rhea Mercado&reg; and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Navigating Workers Compensation with Dr. Isabel King and Rhea Mercado | The Intelligent Rebellion.

Navigating Workers Compensation by The Intelligent Rebellion

Welcome to The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast a platform dedicated to amplifying voices and fostering a shared vision for a brighter future. Hosted by Rhea Mercado, Healthcare Humanist and Speaker  leading The Intelligent Rebellion. Our mission is to challenge traditional hierarchies and cultivate inclusive spaces where professionals can boldly express their ideas and contribute to a better world.

The Intelligent Rebellion is not just a think tank; it's a vibrant community driven by the desire to inspire, explore, connect, and encourage individuals to speak up and shape a more promising future.

To fulfill our mission, we rely on the rich diversity of minds like yours. Your stories, experiences, thoughts, and ideas are invaluable to us. Together, we form a resilient community founded on collective knowledge. If you're passionate about rehumanizing, uniting, and rejuvenating our industries, we extend a warm invitation for you to become a part of The Intelligent Rebellion movement. Join The Intelligent Rebellion.

Find us at:  The Intelligent Rebellion | Instagram

Find Rhea: Rhea Mercado | LinkedIn | Instagram

Bits & Pieces: The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast is a Threesticks Production | Producer & Host: Rhea Mercado | Emperor of Sound and Original Music: Wills

Copyright 2023 Rhea Mercado®

Acknowledgement of Country: Rhea Mercado and the team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging.


Disclaimer to cover our butt: 

The content of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes, are opinions and should not been seen as indisputable.  The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advise which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.

Rhea Mercado ® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

Welcome to <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/podcast">The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast</a> a platform dedicated to amplifying voices and fostering a shared vision for a brighter future. Hosted by <a href="https://www.rheamercado.com">Rhea Mercado</a>, Healthcare Humanist and Speaker  leading The Intelligent Rebellion. Our mission is to challenge traditional hierarchies and cultivate inclusive spaces where professionals can boldly express their ideas and contribute to a better world.
The Intelligent Rebellion is not just a think tank; it's a vibrant community driven by the desire to inspire, explore, connect, and encourage individuals to speak up and shape a more promising future.
To fulfill our mission, we rely on the rich diversity of minds like yours. Your stories, experiences, thoughts, and ideas are invaluable to us. Together, we form a resilient community founded on collective knowledge. If you're passionate about rehumanizing, uniting, and rejuvenating our industries, we extend a warm invitation for you to become a part of The Intelligent Rebellion movement. <a href="https://rheamercado.substack.com/">Join The Intelligent Rebellion</a>.
Find us at:  <a href="https://www.theintelligentrebellion.com/">The Intelligent Rebellion</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/intelligent.rebellion/">Instagram</a>
Find Rhea: <a href="https://bio.site/rheamercado">Rhea Mercado</a> | <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rheamercs/">LinkedIn</a> | <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rheamercs">Instagram</a>
Bits &amp; Pieces: The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast is a <a href="http://www.threesticks.com.au/">Threesticks</a> Production | Producer &amp; Host: <a href="http://www.rheamercado.com/">Rhea Mercado</a> | Emperor of Sound and Original Music: Wills
Copyright 2023 Rhea Mercado®
Acknowledgement of Country: Rhea Mercado and the team who produce the The Intelligent Rebellion Podcast acknowledge the traditional owners and ongoing custodians of the land on which the podcast is recorded. We are located on the land of the Dharug people. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to the Elders past, present and emerging.
 Disclaimer to cover our butt: 
The content of this program / podcast is made available for entertainment purposes, are opinions and should not been seen as indisputable.  The views and information expressed by the Guests of the program represents the view and opinions of the Guest and does not necessarily represent the view or opinions of Rhea Mercado® and/or Threesticks Pty Ltd. The information presented in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for any other professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment nor a substitute for guidelines, legislations, frameworks, processes or procedures. We encourage you always seek advise which meets your personal and/or professional circumstances.
Rhea Mercado ® and Threesticks Pty Ltd hereby disclaims any and all liability to any part for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental or other consequential damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of the content, which is provided as is and without warranties.

The Intelligent Rebellion

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