Ep 73 Caroline Homer on midwifery continuity of care practice to leadership and research

Ep 73 (ibit.ly/Re5V) Caroline Homer on midwifery continuity of care practice to leadership and research

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research -  ibit.ly/aqq5U

 
When Caroline Homer stepped into the world of midwifery, little did she know she was embarking on a voyage that would not only reshape her own life but also touch countless others along the way. Join us as we delve into Caroline's story, from her initial nursing days in Brisbane, through her transformative jump into midwifery in Sydney, and onto her pivotal role in the Burnett Institute. With a blend of personal reflection and professional insight, Caroline regales us with tales of her apprenticeship experiences and the evolving landscape of nursing and midwifery education. Her journey is a testament to the power of lateral moves in carving out a fulfilling career in healthcare.

Imagine if your curiosity for data collection in research led you down a path of profound professional transformation. That's exactly what happened to Caroline when a role as a research midwife sparked a lifelong passion for inquiry, driving her towards academic achievements and groundbreaking trials. In this episode, we track Caroline's foray into HIV research, her pivotal return to midwifery, and her influential role in establishing the significant midwifery continuity of care trial known as STOMP. She also emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship, shedding light on how the Australia College of Midwives has become an invaluable network for professionals in the field.

Finally, Caroline opens up about the intricate dance of leadership and academia in midwifery, especially in the face of global challenges like the pandemic. She discusses the need for strong leadership, the rarity of clinical chair roles in midwifery compared to other medical fields, and the impact of having a dedicated research code for the discipline. As we examine the nuances of PhD supervision and student-relations, Caroline shares her perspective on the critical role of support and clear expectations for academic success. Her story doesn't just outline a career but illustrates a roadmap for anyone aiming to merge practice with research and leadership in their field, proving that with the right mentorship and community, the journey is as rewarding as the destination.