Episodes

  • Fraud, Felonies and Murder: True Crime in the Medical World From the Medical Investigators Notebook

    Fraud, Felonies and Murder: True Crime in the Medical World From the Medical Investigators Notebook
    Jan 30 2025
    Do you think your physician should continue to practice after 245 complaints of sexual misconduct? Ever wonder what really goes on behind the closed doors of a hospital? Join Amie Archibald-Varley & Sara Fung as we delve into the dark side of healthcare with Bruce Sackman, a seasoned medical center investigator who's seen it all. From the mundane to the truly shocking, this podcast pulls back the curtain on the crimes plaguing our hospitals. Hear firsthand accounts of investigations into fraud, bribery, thefts, drug diversions, and even internet scams targeting vulnerable patients. This isn't just about numbers and statistics; it's about the real people affected by these crimes. We'll also explore the sensitive and complex issue of sexual abuse within the medical field of Dr. Robert Hader, OBGYN from Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, who had 245 complaints of sexual misconduct and was STILL ABLE TO PRACTICE! Bruce shares chilling stories from the trenches, revealing the intricate webs of deceit woven within the healthcare system. We'll also touch upon high-profile cases, including a brief discussion of the case of Luigi Mangione, the man accused of gunning down UnitedHealthcare's CEO outside a New York City hotel. More about Bruce Sackman: Bruce Sackman served as the Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), Office of Inspector General, Criminal Investigations Division, Northeast Field Office until May 2005 when he retired after 32 years’ service. In this capacity, he was responsible for all major criminal investigations involving VA from West Virginia to Maine. During his tenure he was involved in hundreds of investigations involving allegations of fraud, corruption, false claims, thefts, patient assaults, pharmaceutical drug diversions and suspicious hospital deaths. Bruce is a former self-employed licensed private investigator in New York City specializing in healthcare related matters. Under contract he had directed major investigations for a large New York metropolitan regional healthcare system. He is the co-author of the book “Behind the Murder Curtain, Special Agent Bruce Sackman Hunts Doctors and Nurses Who Kill Our Veterans”. Do you like what you hear? Follow The Gritty Nurses! Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses. Please leave us a review on Amazon! https://www.harpercollins.ca/97814434... https://www.grittynurse.com/ YouTube: / @grittynursepodcast Facebook: / grittynurse Instagram: / gritty.nurse.podcast Twitter: / grittynurse LinkedIn: / grittynurse
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    50 mins
  • Fractured Innocence: An NICU Nurse's Betrayal

    Fractured Innocence: An NICU Nurse's Betrayal
    Jan 16 2025
    In this season 6 premiere episode, Amie Archibald-Varley & Sara Fung delve into the chilling case of a NICU nurse caught on surveillance cameras inflicting harm on vulnerable infants. We grapple with the devastating impact of this betrayal of trust, exploring the unanswered questions that remain: What were the systemic failures that allowed this abuse to occur? Who else should be held accountable beyond the perpetrator? How can we prevent similar tragedies in the future? We also share our profound sorrow for the families affected by this horrific crime, and discuss the enduring trauma they must face. This episode is a somber reminder of the importance of protecting the most innocent among us. Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! Leave us a review on Amazon! https://www.harpercollins.ca/97814434... https://www.grittynurse.com/ YouTube: / @grittynursepodcast Facebook: / grittynurse Instagram: / gritty.nurse.podcast Twitter: / grittynurse LinkedIn: / grittynurse
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    29 mins
  • That’s a Holiday Wrap: Our Gritty Insights for 2025!

    That’s a Holiday Wrap: Our Gritty Insights for 2025!
    Dec 19 2024

    In this year in review episode, the Gritty Nurses take a beat to discuss the whirlwind that was 2024!

    Highlights of podcast episodes and listeners from around the world, travelling to speak to nurses across the country, a baby, a #1 bestselling book and what’s to come in 2025!

    The Gritty Nurses are just getting started!

    Thank you to our episode sponsor, healthcareproviders.ca!

    Attention, hospital employees, retirees and HR in Canada!

    Picture this: a benefit plan designed for casual and part-time hospital employees and retirees who aren’t covered by their hospital’s group health plan. Introducing Healthcare Providers Group Insurance Plan – a friendly partner dedicated to your health and wellbeing!

    With affordable plan premiums and an exceptional support team, Healthcare Providers, also known as HCP, is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. Enrolling is easy, and you’ll have access to a wide range of health and basic dental benefits from day one.

    Already have coverage through your spouse? HCP still has your back! For less than $32 a month, the Signature Package, which includes Life, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death, Disease & Dismemberment, provides valuable income protection and peace of mind for the unexpected.

    Take charge of your health and financial security today. Visit healthcareproviders.ca to learn more!

    Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! Leave us a review on Amazon!

    https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443468718/the-wisdom-of-nurses/

    https://www.grittynurse.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grittynursepodcast

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grittynurse

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gritty.nurse.podcast/

    X: https://x.com/GrittyNurse

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grittynurse
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    30 mins
  • Climate change and Healthcare: The Hurricane Effect in Health with Nurse Jessica Sites and Raluca Ralu

    Climate change and Healthcare: The Hurricane Effect in Health with Nurse Jessica Sites and Raluca Ralu
    Dec 6 2024
    We are realizing more and more how much climate change is affecting us in healthcare. Join the Gritty Nurses as they sit down with Nurse Jessica Sites of the Nurses Uncorked podcast and Planetary Health Lead Raluca Ralu, MSN, RN. They discuss the delicate intersection between the environment and healthcare, through a professional and personal lens. Jessica literally survived a hurricane at home in Florida and Raluca specializes in climate change and education in her work! Nurse Jessica Sites has over 2 decades worth of experience in the healthcare industry. Jessica worked as a labor and delivery registered nurse in the Tampa Bay area for over 21 years. 2 years ago she took a leap of faith and left bedside nursing in order to pursue a full-time comedic social media career. With nearly 1 million followers, Nurse Jessica has become a trending social media sensation and is proud of how far she has come in such a short amount of time. She is also the co-host of a nursing podcast called Nurses Uncorked, where and her co-host advocate for nurses while still managing to insert humor in the mix. Jessica says if that she can give nurses even a little chuckle in the midst of their crazy chaotic work lives, then she feels she is accomplishing their goals. Raluca Radu, a proud nurse with a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of British Columbia, specializes in Climate Change & Health Education. Since beginning her nursing career in 2014, she has gained experience in public and private healthcare, including surgical units, emergency departments, primary care, and occupational health and safety. Raluca has also taught as a clinical instructor and lecturer at UBC, contributing as a content expert on Climate Change & Health. Passionate about the environment, she remains active in groups like the Canadian Association of Nurses for the Environment (CANE) and other planetary health initiatives. After serving as a Climate and Health Educator with Doctors Without Borders, where she led capacity-building on mitigation health co-benefits, Raluca joined Providence Health Care as its first Planetary Health Lead. She believes we all have opportunities to act now to protect our shared future. Thank you to our episode sponsor, TMU School of Medicine! In summer 2025, Toronto Metropolitan University’s new School of Medicine will officially open its doors and begin shaping a new generation of doctors. Through a bold new approach to medical education, we will train future-ready doctors who are dedicated to delivering primary care to those who need it most. Our doctors will come from our communities and work with our communities to improve health and wellbeing. They will disrupt and drive change within the healthcare system for the benefit of our communities all across Canada. And they will advance our shared vision to build a healthier, more equitable world. The TMU School of Medicine will welcome its first cohort of residents in summer 2025 across 17 residency programs, including seven in family medicine and ten in generalist specialties. MD students will follow in September 2025, pending successful preliminary accreditation by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools. Visit torontomu.ca/school-of-medicine to learn more. Thank you to our episode sponsor, healthcareproviders.ca! Attention, hospital employees, retirees and HR in Canada! Picture this: a benefit plan designed for casual and part-time hospital employees and retirees who aren’t covered by their hospital’s group health plan. Introducing Healthcare Providers Group Insurance Plan – a friendly partner dedicated to your health and wellbeing! With affordable plan premiums and an exceptional support team, Healthcare Providers, also known as HCP, is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. Enrolling is easy, and you’ll have access to a wide range of health and basic dental benefits from day one. Already have coverage through your spouse? HCP still has your back! For less than $32 a month, the Signature Package, which includes Life, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death, Disease & Dismemberment, provides valuable income protection and peace of mind for the unexpected. Take charge of your health and financial security today. Visit healthcareproviders.ca to learn more! Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! Leave us a review on Amazon! https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443468718/the-wisdom-of-nurses/ https://www.grittynurse.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grittynursepodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grittynurse Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gritty.nurse.podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrittyNurse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grittynurse
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • The Mo-ment of Truth: A Hairy Discussion on Men's Health & Prostate Cancer

    The Mo-ment of Truth: A Hairy Discussion on Men's Health & Prostate Cancer
    Nov 21 2024

    Get ready to stache the facts about men's health! In this episode, Amie & Sara are diving deep into the world of Movember, exploring the importance of prostate cancer awareness, and breaking the silence around men's health issues.

    Join us as we discuss:

    The significance of Movember and its impact on men's health Understanding the risks and symptoms of prostate cancer The importance of regular check-ups and early detection How to support the Movember Foundation and make a difference So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's get serious about men's health. Remember, a little hair on your face can go a long way!

    Thank you to our episode sponsor, TMU School of Medicine!

    In summer 2025, Toronto Metropolitan University’s new School of Medicine will officially open its doors and begin shaping a new generation of doctors. Through a bold new approach to medical education, we will train future-ready doctors who are dedicated to delivering primary care to those who need it most. Our doctors will come from our communities and work with our communities to improve health and wellbeing. They will disrupt and drive change within the healthcare system for the benefit of our communities all across Canada. And they will advance our shared vision to build a healthier, more equitable world. The TMU School of Medicine will welcome its first cohort of residents in summer 2025 across 17 residency programs, including seven in family medicine and ten in generalist specialties. MD students will follow in September 2025, pending successful preliminary accreditation by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools.

    Visit torontomu.ca/school-of-medicine to learn more.

    Thank you to our episode sponsor, healthcareproviders.ca!

    Attention, hospital employees, retirees and HR in Canada! Picture this: a benefit plan designed for casual and part-time hospital employees and retirees who aren’t covered by their hospital’s group health plan. Introducing Healthcare Providers Group Insurance Plan – a friendly partner dedicated to your health and wellbeing! With affordable plan premiums and an exceptional support team, Healthcare Providers, also known as HCP, is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. Enrolling is easy, and you’ll have access to a wide range of health and basic dental benefits from day one.

    Already have coverage through your spouse? HCP still has your back! For less than $32 a month, the Signature Package, which includes Life, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death, Disease & Dismemberment, provides valuable income protection and peace of mind for the unexpected. Take charge of your health and financial security today.

    Visit healthcareproviders.ca to learn more!

    Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! https://a.co/d/5XTJRQd

    Leave us a review on Amazon!

    https://www.harpercollins.ca/97814434...

    https://www.grittynurse.com

    Bluesky: @grittynurse.bsky.social

    YouTube: / @grittynursepodcast

    Facebook: / grittynurse

    Instagram: / gritty.nurse.podcast

    Twitter: / grittynurse LinkedIn: / grittynurse
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    40 mins
  • Women’s Bodies Are On the Ballot, Our Choice Is On The Line: The Right To Choose With Leader of NDP Jagmeet Singh

    Women’s Bodies Are On the Ballot, Our Choice Is On The Line: The Right To Choose With Leader of NDP Jagmeet Singh
    Nov 4 2024
    Our bodies are on the ballot, and our choice are on the line. In this episode, right before the US presidential election, we discuss one of the most pressing issues in Canada and the US: women's bodies and the right to choose. We sit down to discuss this issue with the Leader of the New Democratic Party, Jagmeet Singh. Some might think it is a silly choice on our behalf to speak to a man about abortion rights---but this is purposeful. Men need to speak out and stand in solidarity with us, be allies and agents of disruption in the face of other men who are trying to suppress our voices. And Canada, think again if you think we cannot lose our rights here--The CPC has proposed many anti-choice bills. We say for Canada too, "We will not go back"! Listen to this most crucial episode, and please vote! Thank you to our episode sponsor, TMU School of Medicine! In summer 2025, Toronto Metropolitan University’s new School of Medicine will officially open its doors and begin shaping a new generation of doctors. Through a bold new approach to medical education, we will train future-ready doctors who are dedicated to delivering primary care to those who need it most. Our doctors will come from our communities and work with our communities to improve health and wellbeing. They will disrupt and drive change within the healthcare system for the benefit of our communities all across Canada. And they will advance our shared vision to build a healthier, more equitable world. The TMU School of Medicine will welcome its first cohort of residents in summer 2025 across 17 residency programs, including seven in family medicine and ten in generalist specialties. MD students will follow in September 2025, pending successful preliminary accreditation by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools. Visit torontomu.ca/school-of-medicine to learn more. Thank you to our episode sponsor, healthcareproviders.ca! Attention, hospital employees, retirees and HR in Canada! Picture this: a benefit plan designed for casual and part-time hospital employees and retirees who aren’t covered by their hospital’s group health plan. Introducing Healthcare Providers Group Insurance Plan – a friendly partner dedicated to your health and wellbeing! With affordable plan premiums and an exceptional support team, Healthcare Providers, also known as HCP, is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. Enrolling is easy, and you’ll have access to a wide range of health and basic dental benefits from day one. Already have coverage through your spouse? HCP still has your back! For less than $32 a month, the Signature Package, which includes Life, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death, Disease & Dismemberment, provides valuable income protection and peace of mind for the unexpected. Take charge of your health and financial security today. Visit healthcareproviders.ca to learn more! Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! Leave us a review on Amazon! https://www.harpercollins.ca/97814434... https://www.grittynurse.com/ YouTube: / @grittynursepodcast Facebook: / grittynurse Instagram: / gritty.nurse.podcast Twitter: / grittynurse LinkedIn: / grittynurse
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    27 mins
  • Halloween Hospital Hell: Tales From the Dark Side of the Hospital Room

    Halloween Hospital Hell: Tales From the Dark Side of the Hospital Room
    Oct 24 2024

    Welcome to the Gritty Nurse Podcast Annual Halloween edition! What is more frightening than tales from haunted hospitals? It could be your aunt's cooking, that cringe blind date you had last week, or governments trying to privatize healthcare—either way—Turn your lights down low, and get comfortable as we listen to the most chilling episode of the season.

    In this episode The Gritty Nurses chat with Nurse Freija about some chilling tales and some creepy facts from history. Listen if you dare!

    Thank you to our episode sponsor, TMU School of Medicine!

    In summer 2025, Toronto Metropolitan University’s new School of Medicine will officially open its doors and begin shaping a new generation of doctors. Through a bold new approach to medical education, we will train future-ready doctors who are dedicated to delivering primary care to those who need it most. Our doctors will come from our communities and work with our communities to improve health and wellbeing. They will disrupt and drive change within the healthcare system for the benefit of our communities all across Canada. And they will advance our shared vision to build a healthier, more equitable world. The TMU School of Medicine will welcome its first cohort of residents in summer 2025 across 17 residency programs, including seven in family medicine and ten in generalist specialties. MD students will follow in September 2025, pending successful preliminary accreditation by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools. Visit torontomu.ca/school-of-medicine to learn more.

    Thank you to our episode sponsor, healthcareproviders.ca!

    Attention, hospital employees, retirees and HR in Canada!

    Picture this: a benefit plan designed for casual and part-time hospital employees and retirees who aren’t covered by their hospital’s group health plan. Introducing Healthcare Providers Group Insurance Plan – a friendly partner dedicated to your health and wellbeing!

    With affordable plan premiums and an exceptional support team, Healthcare Providers, also known as HCP, is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. Enrolling is easy, and you’ll have access to a wide range of health and basic dental benefits from day one.

    Already have coverage through your spouse? HCP still has your back! For less than $32 a month, the Signature Package, which includes Life, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death, Disease & Dismemberment, provides valuable income protection and peace of mind for the unexpected.

    Take charge of your health and financial security today. Visit healthcareproviders.ca to learn more!

    Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! Leave us a review on Amazon!

    https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443468718/the-wisdom-of-nurses/

    https://www.grittynurse.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grittynursepodcast

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grittynurse

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gritty.nurse.podcast/

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrittyNurse

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grittynurse
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    44 mins
  • Vacation from Hell! You Never Get to Hang Up Your Stethoscope!

    Vacation from Hell! You Never Get to Hang Up Your Stethoscope!
    Oct 10 2024

    In this episode, the Gritty Nurses talk about their recent vacations, the importance of travel insurance and how being a nurse never stops! From giving nursing advice to complete strangers, to their kids getting injured and becoming unwell, this is a funny & lighthearted episode you won’t want to miss!

    They also talk about navigating the international healthcare system as travellers.

    Thank you to our episode sponsor, TMU School of Medicine!

    In summer 2025, Toronto Metropolitan University’s new School of Medicine will officially open its doors and begin shaping a new generation of doctors. Through a bold new approach to medical education, we will train future-ready doctors who are dedicated to delivering primary care to those who need it most. Our doctors will come from our communities and work with our communities to improve health and wellbeing. They will disrupt and drive change within the healthcare system for the benefit of our communities all across Canada. And they will advance our shared vision to build a healthier, more equitable world. The TMU School of Medicine will welcome its first cohort of residents in summer 2025 across 17 residency programs, including seven in family medicine and ten in generalist specialties. MD students will follow in September 2025, pending successful preliminary accreditation by the Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools. Visit torontomu.ca/school-of-medicine to learn more.

    Thank you to our episode sponsor, healthcareproviders.ca!

    Attention, hospital employees, retirees and HR in Canada!

    Picture this: a benefit plan designed for casual and part-time hospital employees and retirees who aren’t covered by their hospital’s group health plan. Introducing Healthcare Providers Group Insurance Plan – a friendly partner dedicated to your health and wellbeing!

    With affordable plan premiums and an exceptional support team, Healthcare Providers, also known as HCP, is dedicated to helping you every step of the way. Enrolling is easy, and you’ll have access to a wide range of health and basic dental benefits from day one.

    Already have coverage through your spouse? HCP still has your back! For less than $32 a month, the Signature Package, which includes Life, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death, Disease & Dismemberment, provides valuable income protection and peace of mind for the unexpected.

    Take charge of your health and financial security today. Visit healthcareproviders.ca to learn more!

    Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! Leave us a review on Amazon!

    https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443468718/the-wisdom-of-nurses/

    https://www.grittynurse.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grittynursepodcast

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grittynurse

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gritty.nurse.podcast/

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrittyNurse

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grittynurse
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    44 mins