Why leadership? Why now?
'Leadership – what’s that got to do with me?’, I hear you say. (At least that’s been my reaction in the past!).
‘I’ve got plenty to do just keeping up with all my frontline paediatrics, and although I kind of lead in a few roles, I just get on with it.’
So, what is there to be gained be listening to a podcast on leadership in paediatrics?
Perhaps it helps to re-frame ‘leadership’. Are you trying to improve the care of your patients, or how things work for your colleagues, or the experience of your students/residents, or systems in your clinical area or Trust, or your workplace ‘climate’? I think we all are, in some way. Ultimately, making things better involves leadership. All of us have influence in our roles, all of us have impact on the environment, the people, the systems, around us – whether we recognise it or not - we all lead!
So, the next question is ‘How can we lead better?’ Leadership is not a skillset automatically conferred with every medical or other health professional qualification. Of course, we can pick things up by observing and being around good leaders. But like most important elements of our wider professional CPD, its worth being intentional and even strategic about how we will acquire and hone these skills.
This is where Leading the way, our new monthy series on RCPCH Podcasts, comes in. In those moments where you’re making your audio choice for a journey, workout or household task, why not try this easy and enjoyable foray into the world of paediatric leadership?
What you'll hear
- Real stories – Hear from paediatricians across the UK and beyond as they share their leadership journeys — the highs, the hurdles, and the human moments that shaped them
- Expert insights – Learn from thought leaders in healthcare, education, and policy on how to lead effectively in complex, high-pressure environments
- Practical takeaways – Walk away with tools and strategies you can apply immediately - whether you're leading a ward round or a national initiative.
Who should listen
This podcast series is for everyone in paediatrics, from medical students and trainees to consultants, managers, and allied health professionals. If you are passionate about making a difference in child health and want to grow as a leader, this podcast is for you.
Meet your host
Jonathan Darling
Clinical Associate Professor | Consultant Paediatrician | Vice President for Education and Professional Development, RCPCH
Dr Darling brings a wealth of experience in medical education, curriculum design, and safeguarding. A passionate advocate for leadership at all levels, he guides each conversation with insight, warmth and curiosity.
Our first episode will be out on 16 July with Dr Simon Broughton. (Update: This is now released and you can read Jonathan's blog and listen to the episode).
Find and subscribe to RCPCH Podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to your podcasts. All episodes, with related material, will be presented on the Podcasts pages in RCPCH Learning.