Only Human After All
Step behind the scenes of hospital life with Only Human After All, a heartwarming and insightful podcast that introduces you to the extraordinary people who make healthcare happen. Hosted by Dr. James Thomas, a Deputy Medical Director, and Andrea Clegg, an Associate Director of Nursing, this series uncovers the personal stories of the individuals working tirelessly in our hospitals. Each episode shines a spotlight on a different member of the team, from surgeons and therapists to porters and IT staff. Through candid conversations, James and Andrea delve into their guests’ lives, exploring their childhoods, influences, passions, and the unique journeys that led them to healthcare. Only Human After All offers a fresh perspective on the human side of medicine, breaking down the barriers of uniforms and job titles to reveal the dedication, humor, and heart behind every role. Whether it’s a childhood dream fulfilled, a life-changing event, or an unexpected career path, each story is a reminder that every person has a tale worth telling. Engaging, inspiring, and often surprising, this podcast celebrates the diversity of experiences and the shared humanity that unites us all. Tune in weekly and discover the remarkable people who keep hospitals running—because, at the end of the day, we’re all only human after all.
Episodes

7 days ago
7 days ago
In this episode of "Only Human After All," hosts James Thomas and Andrea Clegg delve into the inspiring journey of Liz Franklin, a hospital chaplain who enriches lives at Sherwood Forest Hospitals. Discover how Liz transitioned from a career in social work and mental health to becoming ordained in the Church of England.
Through candid conversations, Liz shares her unique path to chaplaincy, highlighting the integral role of spirituality and holistic care in supporting patients and staff. Her story sheds light on the joys and challenges of being a chaplain in a hospital environment, emphasizing the importance of empathy, resilience, and connection.
Join us as we explore how faith and personal experiences shape the way Liz touches lives and learn about the profound impact of seeing the person beyond the patient, reminding us that in healthcare, everyone is "only human after all."

Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
In this episode of Only Human After All, hosts James Thomas and Andrea Clegg sit down with John Tansley, the Clinical Director for Patient Safety—a man on a mission to transform how hospitals approach safety. John shares his journey from anaesthetist to patient safety specialist, revealing how his passion for systems thinking and problem-solving led him to step away from direct clinical care and into a role that reshapes how hospitals learn and improve.
He challenges the old blame culture and champions a more systemic, forward-thinking approach. With candid reflections on the emotional shifts of leaving frontline medicine, John highlights the profound impact of fostering a just culture—one where learning from successes is just as valuable as examining mistakes.
At its heart, this episode is a reminder that healthcare is built on human effort—imperfect, fallible, and deeply committed. John explores why true patient safety isn’t about eliminating error entirely but about creating an environment where people can acknowledge mistakes, learn from them, and ultimately provide safer, better care.

Monday Mar 31, 2025
Monday Mar 31, 2025
In this episode of Only Human After All, hosts James Thomas and Andrea Clegg sit down with Andros, a Mexican-born Communications Officer at Sherwood Forest Hospitals.
Andros shares his inspiring journey from Cancun to the UK, offering insight into the power of storytelling in healthcare. Passionate about bridging generational and cultural gaps, he reveals how creativity and effective communication can transform patient experiences and workplace culture.
This uplifting conversation sheds light on the often-unseen roles that keep the NHS running and the importance of embracing diversity in healthcare. Don’t miss this inspiring story of ambition, resilience, and making a difference.

Monday Mar 31, 2025
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Welcome to the latest episode of Only Human After All, where we delve into the lives of those who work behind the hospital doors. Join hosts James Thomas and Andrea Clegg as they introduce Vicky Malia, the Divisional Lead for Operational Development and Engagement within the Surgery Division.
In this episode, Vicky shares her unique journey into her niche role, offering insights into the impact of non-clinical staff in healthcare. From fostering strong relationships to staying connected with the patient experience, Vicky's role is vital in supporting the clinical staff and ensuring effective healthcare delivery.
Learn about Vicky's career path, the challenges and rewards of working in a non-linear job, and how personal experience shapes her approach to hospital management. This is an exploration of the essential, though often unseen, roles that contribute to patient care and the overall functioning of our health system.