Podcast series

Ask the Expert
Podcast Series

Learn from experts. Grow your confidence. Make a difference.

Welcome to the Ask the Expert Podcast Series, part of our Spotlight Delivery Model.

A care worker supporting someone in a care setting
Podcast series

Explore the podcast library

Discover expert conversations covering topics relevant to your role, your professional development and the challenges you may encounter in the workplace.

With new episodes added each quarter, the library gives you ongoing opportunities to learn from others, explore different perspectives and build on your knowledge throughout your apprenticeship.

  • Melanie ParagreenOccupational Therapist and Development Coach, tend®
  • Ginny RobertsSenior Nursing Lecturer, University of Winchester
  • Kirsty AllisonSenior Specialist Occupational Therapist and Senior Lecturer, University of Sunderland
Latest episode

Episode 2 · 29 October 2026

Power Skills for Everyday Care Delivery

David Smith and experts from therapy, nursing and healthcare explore the power skills behind exceptional care: communication, emotional intelligence, teamwork and decision-making.

About this episode

Drawing on decades of combined experience across clinical practice, education and leadership, the panel share practical advice and real examples from across health and social care.

In this episode

  • How communication affects patient safety and care quality
  • Making decisions under pressure
  • The role of emotional intelligence in care
  • Building confidence in busy clinical settings
  • Strengthening teamwork and collaboration

With

  • Melanie Paragreen, Occupational Therapist and Development Coach, tend®
  • Ginny Roberts, Senior Nursing Lecturer, University of Winchester
  • Kirsty Allison, Senior Specialist Occupational Therapist and Senior Lecturer, University of Sunderland
Reflect on this episode

More episodes

Business

Episode 1

A Better Version of Yourself at Work

Host David Smith explores how confidence, communication and continuous learning help you grow and thrive at work.

About this episode

David Smith, Product and Innovation Lead, is joined by Alison Holme and Kieran Buxton. Kieran began his own career as a Youth Work Apprentice and brings a learner's view alongside national experience championing apprenticeships.

In this episode

  • Building confidence in the workplace
  • Improving communication and professional relationships
  • Taking ownership of your personal development
  • Creating positive habits that support career progression
  • Learning from challenges and embracing new opportunities

With

  • Alison Holme, professional development and workforce capability specialist
  • Kieran Buxton, Partnership Manager, More Networking, and National Co-Chair, Association of Apprentices
Reflect on this episode

Working in health, social care or pharmacy means continually developing your knowledge, skills and confidence to provide high-quality support. Our quarterly podcasts bring together experienced professionals, sector specialists and industry leaders to share practical advice, personal experiences and insights from across the world of work.

From strengthening communication and teamwork to exploring professional development, person-centred practice and new approaches to care, each episode offers ideas to help you grow in your role and make a positive difference to the people you support.

Every episode is an opportunity to:

  • Learn from experience

    Hear practical insights from professionals working across different sectors.

  • Build your confidence

    Explore approaches to communication, problem-solving, teamwork and professional practice.

  • Strengthen your skills

    Discover ideas you can apply in your day-to-day role.

  • Keep developing

    Access fresh perspectives and expert knowledge as new episodes are released.

Put your learning into practice

The most valuable learning is what you can take back into your role. As you watch each episode, consider how the discussion relates to your responsibilities, the people you support and your own professional development.

Pause & reflect

Think about:

  • What have I learned that could improve my practice?
  • How could I apply these ideas in my role?
  • Is there something I could do differently to improve the experience of the people I support?
  • What would I like to discuss with my Delivery Coach?

Use these reflections to identify opportunities for growth and make the most of your one-to-one coaching sessions.

Keep developing with Spotlight

The Ask the Expert Podcast Series is one part of our Spotlight Delivery Model, combining flexible digital learning, personalised coaching and practical workplace application.

Together, these learning experiences help you develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours you need to progress in your career and contribute to high-quality, person-centred practice.

Explore the latest episodes, take away new ideas and continue building the skills that make a difference.

Watch the latest episode