Preview Mode Links will not work in preview mode

The Gritty Nurse

The Gritty Nurse is back, and NO TOPIC is off-limits! Launching in September 2025 with host Amie Archibald Varley, this podcast is dedicated to amplifying the voices of nurses and others who work in healthcare to explore the most pressing issues they face. Join Amie as she continues to take a deep dive into powerful and often uncomfortable topics. Though shared experriences, storytelling and the discussions surrounding the intersection of power, we will navigate the challenges facing healthcare nationally and internationally--as of course--challenge the status quo. The show's core belief remains unwavering: that compassion is the through understanding diverse narratives and perspectives is KEY. Amie will continue to explore hot-button issues like mental health, social justice, women's health, and the daily challenges within the nursing profession. The Gritty Nurse is more than just a podcast—it's a community where nurses and healthcare workers can feel heard, empowered, and recognized as the community leaders they truly are. Change is HERE.

Feb 24, 2022

Disclaimer: In the introduction of this podcast, we play a recorded clip (with permission from Shirley Archibald) of the recording that was taken by Amie during her mom's visit to the hospital. It does contain disturbing and difficult content to listen to. It may be triggering to some. Please listen at your...


Feb 17, 2022

In this episode, Amie & Sara talk about "the occupation" and the blockades that are occurring across Canada. We discuss the new meanings that this "protest" has taken on and what it means to us as nurses and members of our community. Like many of you, we are also fed up with it and kinda could not hold back in this...


Feb 10, 2022

In this episode, Amie and Sara chat with Dr. Amit Arya, a palliative care physician. We discuss the long-term care crisis, what palliative care is and isn't, and why home care is so important. Should these areas be clinical placements in nursing school? We touch on quality of life and the power of connection. 

Dr. Amit...


Feb 3, 2022

Trigger Warning: The situations described in this episode may be triggering to some. 

"On every shift, in every emergency department in Canada, a staff member is subjected to harassment, abuse and
assault”. Our guests this week, Dr. James Brophy and Dr. Margaret Keith have studied an extensive range of important...