Episode 27: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Decisions Under Fire

Episode 27: Knot to be missed - The RCOG surgical skills podcast | Decisions Under Fire

Author: Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists June 22, 2026 Duration: 37:29
In this energising and insightful episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Tracy-Louise Appleyard OBE — the podcast’s first OBE recipient — to explore how military medicine can transform the way we lead, train and make decisions in healthcare. A Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at North Bristol NHS Trust and Defence Consultant Adviser in Obstetrics and Gynaecology for the Royal Army Medical Services, Dr Appleyard brings decades of experience from both the NHS and military environments. She shares how service life shaped her ability to make clear decisions under pressure, understand consequence, and lead teams through uncertainty. The conversation explores why decisiveness matters, how human factors can make healthcare safer, and what it takes to create psychologically safe teams in high-pressure environments. Dr Appleyard also shares memorable lessons on protecting your “life units”, setting boundaries, and recognising when stress is about perception rather than reality.

Produced by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, RCOG is a resource for anyone seeking clear, reliable information on women's health. This science-focused podcast translates complex medical research and clinical guidance into accessible conversations, moving beyond headlines to explore the evidence behind common questions and concerns. Each episode features discussions with specialists, researchers, and other experts, delving into topics across obstetrics, gynaecology, and reproductive health. The aim is to provide the public with a deeper understanding, whether addressing pregnancy, menopause, menstrual health, or new treatment developments. You'll hear thoughtful explorations that clarify misconceptions and present balanced perspectives grounded in the latest medical science. By offering this direct access to expert knowledge, the RCOG podcast empowers informed decisions and fosters a more nuanced public conversation about health. Tune in for a trustworthy source that prioritizes accuracy and clarity, reflecting the College's commitment to improving care and understanding for everyone.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

RCOG
Podcast Episodes
Pelvic organ prolapse [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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This information is for you if you have pelvic organ prolapse and want to know more about it. Links to further information are available on the RCOG website: https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-info…
Pregnancy sickness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:33
This information is for you if you want to know more about nausea and vomiting of pregnancy or about hyperemesis gravidarum, which is the most severe form of the condition. Links to further information are available on t…
Air travel and pregnancy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:51
This information is for you if you are pregnant and are thinking of travelling by air. Links to further information are available on the RCOG website: https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information…
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:22
This information is for you if you have been diagnosed with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), also known as obstetric cholestasis. Links to further information are available on the RCOG website: https://www.rc…
Cervical stitch [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:12
This information is for you if you want to know about having a cervical stitch, which is also called cervical cerclage. Links to further information are available on the RCOG website: https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-publ…