Supervisors’ Compass

Supporting Neurodiverse Learners (Part 2)

In this second part of the conversation, Dr James Best and Professor Richard Hays are again joined by Dr Naomi Luck and Dr Katie Williamson to explore how neurodiversity plays out in rural generalist practice and supervision.
The discussion highlights the strengths neurodivergent doctors may bring to rural medicine, including divergent clinical reasoning, big-picture thinking, adaptability, and comfort managing complexity and uncertainty, qualities that are often well suited to rural practice.
The panel also turns to the supervisory relationship, acknowledging that neurodiversity is just as likely among supervisors as registrars. They explore how differing thinking styles can shape communication and feedback, and why early conversations about expectations, learning preferences and support structures are key to building effective partnerships.
With practical strategies and reflections on evolving cultural change within ACRRM, this episode reinforces a strengths-based approach to supervision and encourages inclusive learning environments where diverse ways of thinking are recognised as assets to rural generalist training.
 
Key resources:
Broadening an understanding of learners who think differently in medical education (Hays RB, Hartman D, Heggarty P, Harte J): https://doi.org/10.1080/0142159X.2025.2606065 
Autistic SPACE: a novel framework for meeting the needs of autistic people in healthcare settings (Doherty M, McCowan S, Shaw SC): https://doi.org/10.12968/hmed.2023.0006
Autistic Doctors International (ADI): https://autisticdoctorsinternational.com/ 

Supporting Neurodiverse Learners (Part 1)

How can supervisors better understand and support neurodiverse learners in rural generalist training? In this episode of the ACRRM RG podcast Supervisors’ Compass, Dr James Best and Professor Richard Hays are joined by Dr Naomi Luck and Dr Katie Williamson to explore what neurodiversity means in the context of medical education and clinical supervision.
The discussion unpacks common forms of neurodivergence, including autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, and challenges misconceptions that neurodiverse doctors are less capable or less suited to clinical practice. Instead, the panel highlights the strengths neurodiverse registrars often bring, such as flexible thinking, creativity, strong problem-solving skills, and deep clinical focus.
They also reflect on why some registrars may thrive in clinical work yet struggle in more traditional assessment environments, and how supervisors can recognise when additional structure, support, or reasonable adjustments may be helpful, without jumping to labels or assumptions.
With practical insights and a strengths-based approach, this episode encourages supervisors to create inclusive learning environments where all registrars can succeed.
 
Key resources:
Broadening an understanding of learners who think differently in medical education (Hays RB, Hartman D, Heggarty P, Harte J): https://doi.org/10.1080/0142159X.2025.2606065 
Autistic SPACE: a novel framework for meeting the needs of autistic people in healthcare settings (Doherty M, McCowan S, Shaw SC): https://doi.org/10.12968/hmed.2023.0006
Autistic Doctors International (ADI): https://autisticdoctorsinternational.com/ 

So You’re Thinking About Becoming a Supervisor?

What motivates clinicians to become supervisors, and what can they expect to gain from the role? In this episode of the ACRRM RG podcast Supervisors’ Compass, Dr James Best and Professor Richard Hays explore the decision to step into supervision and the factors that influence that choice.
They discuss the curiosity, uncertainty, and professional reflections that often sit behind becoming a supervisor, including motivations such as professional development, workforce sustainability, and contributing to the next generation of rural generalists. The conversation also acknowledges common concerns around responsibility, trust, and preparedness for the role.
Drawing on insights from supervisors at the recent ACRRM Supervisor Summit, the episode highlights the rewards of supervision, including shared learning, professional renewal, and the value of supportive communities of practice. For clinicians considering supervision, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and encouragement to take that first step.
We also extend our thanks to the supervisors who generously shared their insights and experiences at the summit: Dr Sarah Woodland, Dr Graeme Fitzclarence, Dr Mohammed Mohammed, Dr Rachel Dennis, Dr Volker Rockliff Boehm, Dr Tess Goodwin, Dr Katherine Hancock, Dr Saman Maheepala, and Dr Simon Birchley, along with the many other supervisors who also contributed their perspectives.

Starting Strong: The First 2–4 Weeks

What sets a registrar up for success in a new placement, and how can supervisors lay the groundwork for a productive and trusting learning relationship? In this fifth episode of the ACRRM RG podcast Supervisors’ Compass, Dr James Best and Professor Richard Hays explore the crucial first few weeks of supervision, a period that can shape the entire training placement.
They discuss why these early weeks matter so much, how to establish a safe and supportive learning environment, and the importance of clarity around expectations, communication, and help seeking. Drawing on insights from supervisors at the recent ACRRM Supervisor Summit, the episode highlights practical approaches to building rapport, understanding learning needs, and fostering psychological safety from day one.
For supervisors, this episode offers guidance and reassurance on how to start strong, creating conditions where both supervisor and registrar can thrive, learn together, and set the tone for a rewarding placement ahead.
We also extend our thanks to the supervisors who generously shared their insights and experiences at the summit: Dr Christine Hampshire, Dr Tess Goodwin, Dr Graeme Fitzclarence, Dr Volker Rockliff Boehm, Dr Pieter Oosthuizen, Dr Mohammed Mohammed, Dr Sarah Woodland, and Dr Sally Street, along with the many other supervisors who also contributed their perspectives.

Stuck in a Rut

What should supervisors do when a registrar’s learning progress is slower than expected? In this fourth episode of the ACRRM RG podcast Supervisors’ Compass, Dr James Best and Professor Richard Hays are joined by Dr Emily Moody to discuss how supervisors can recognise and respond when progress seems to stall.
They explore common causes such as distraction, workload, wellbeing, and learning styles, and share practical strategies for observation, feedback, and building self-awareness. The discussion also touches on performance anxiety, the role of support networks, and the value of taking a long-term view of each registrar’s unique learning pathway.
For supervisors at any stage, this episode offers insight and reassurance on supporting registrars through the ups and downs of their training journey, reminding us that every learning pathway is individual and that sometimes life happens along the way.

Funky Supervising

What happens when supervision steps outside the box? In this third episode of the ACRRM RG podcast Supervisors’ Compass, Dr James Best and Professor Richard Hays are joined by Dr Dan Manahan to explore creative, “funky” approaches to supervision — the different, sometimes unconventional ways that help build connection, confidence, and joy in learning.
Drawing on their combined experience across rural general practice, medical education, and supervisor support, the conversation delves into how playfulness, trust, and shared experiences — from theme days to bushwalks — can strengthen relationships and create richer learning environments.
They discuss how context shapes supervision, the importance of rapport and trust, and how supervisors can adapt their style to suit different learners and settings while still supporting meaningful learning and growth.
For supervisors wanting to refresh their approach, bring more meaning and a little more fun into their practice, this episode offers inspiration, practical ideas, and a reminder that learning works best when it’s built on connection and joy.

Walking the Line: Boundaries and Professionalism in Supervision

Where do the boundaries lie in supervision, and how do we handle it when things get blurred? In this second episode of the ACRRM RG podcast Supervisors’ Compass, Dr James Best and Professor Richard Hays unpack the complexities of professionalism, boundaries, and the challenges of “walking the line” in rural and remote medical practice.
Drawing on their combined experience in supervision, rural generalism, and medical education, James and Richard discuss how overlapping roles — supervisor, employer, colleague and even treating doctor — can create complexities, particularly in smaller communities. They share practical strategies for setting clear expectations, role-modelling professionalism, and supporting registrars to develop the self-awareness and reflective practice that underpin their professional identity.
They also highlight the subtle warning signs that may point to professionalism concerns, the role of feedback and observation, and the importance of fostering safe, respectful learning environments where registrars can grow.
For new and experienced supervisors alike, this conversation offers insights, reassurance, and guidance on navigating tricky boundaries to support both supervisors and registrars in staying on track together.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Supervising

What makes supervision rewarding, what makes it challenging, and what happens when things don’t go to plan? In this first episode of the ACRRM RG podcast Supervisors’ Compass, Dr James Best speaks with Professor Richard Hays about the good, the bad, and the ugly of supervising registrars on the ACRRM Rural Generalist pathway.
Drawing on their extensive experience in rural medicine, medical education, and supervisor support, Richard and James talk about the rewards of mentoring, the energy and perspective registrars bring to a practice, and the collegiality found within a supportive community of practice.
They also reflect on the challenges that can test supervisors and the trickier situations that can arise, and share how these moments can be recognised, navigated, and often resolved in ways that benefit both supervisors and registrars.
A must-listen for new and experienced supervisors alike, this episode offers relatable experiences, reassurance, and insights to strengthen supervision practice and support registrars on their journey.