Best CUPE Podcasts (2026)

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Nursing Ratios & Union Power with Michael Hurley President of Ontario Council of Hospital Unions/CUPE 38:45

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25d ago38:45

38:45

What does it mean to lead a movement? Michael Hurley, a veteran advocate and President of the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions (OCHU/CUPE), joins Amie Archibald-Varley, The Gritty Nurse to discuss the grit required to protect the healthcare workforce. In this high-stakes episode, we pull back the curtain on what it truly takes to fight for frontl…

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98% Vote to Strike: Seattle Children's Nurses Fight for Safety w/ Kara Yates & Therese Hill 43:30

4d ago43:30

43:30

In this critical episode of The Gritty Nurse Podcast, Amie Archibald-Varley hosts Kara Yates, RN (WSNA Union Co-Chair) and Therese Hill, BSN, RN(Membership Officer) to discuss a historic turning point for nursing in Washington. This conversation goes beyond the headlines, exploring the dire conditions that led nurses to the negotiation table. We ex…

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Season 9. Thanks for listening. More to come. 1:35

7d ago1:35

1:35

Going to spool up the podcast for season 9. 25 years with the City. This is going to be a fun year. Bargaining is coming.By Scott Cush

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Dying to be Seen: The Gritty Truth Is We ALL Need To Fight for Canadian Medicare 54:23

11d ago54:23

54:23

As we kick off 2026, the stakes for Canadian healthcare have never been higher. In this powerful season premiere (SEASON 7 baby!) of The Gritty Nurse Podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley sits down with nurse, advocate, and author Cathy MacNeil to discuss her provocative and timely book, Dying to be Seen: The race to save medicare in Canada. Far from…

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What is going on with the UCP? Separate question. What is going on with Recalls? 18:36

14d ago18:36

18:36

My take on the Alberta politics. Wow.By Scott Cush

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The spectacular uniform. 11:43

25d ago11:43

11:43

Lets talk about the uniform clauses.By Scott Cush

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Sepsis, Equity, and the Fight for a National Standards In Canada with PhD. Candidate & Prominent Researcher Fatima Sheikh 35:19

1M ago35:19

35:19

In this powerful episode of The Gritty Nurse Podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley sits down with researcher Fatima Sheikh, a PhD candidate at McMaster University, to unpack the urgent crisis of sepsis. This conversation goes beyond the bedside, focusing on the social and structural determinants of health that fuel sepsis prevalence and worsen patien…

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December 2025 No Quorum. :( 2:44

1M ago2:44

2:44

We will have elections starting in the new year. If you have your meetings in you will be eligible. With the upcoming meeting being a bargaining year, it will be a big election I am sure of it.By Scott Cush

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Why Boys Need Anti-Manosphere Education: Feminism, Neurodivergence, and Challenging Patriarchy 37:47

1M ago37:47

37:47

In this episode of the Gritty Nurse podcast, host Amie Archibald-Verley engages in a deep conversation with guest Jayne Gallays about the intersections of neurodivergence and feminism. They discuss personal experiences, the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, particularly women, and the societal expectations that shape their lives. The …

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Come to the Open House 6:03

1M ago6:03

6:03

Dec 5, 2025. 4pm - 8pm. Should be a great time. Online meetnigs are still not on the table. Not sure it will happen in 2026. Call the hall and let them know you want online meetings.By Scott Cush

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HSA Claim using Health and Dental Premiums. Update. 1:30

1M ago1:30

1:30

Go to www.cityworker.ca if you are interested in seeing the video that matches with this episode. Claiming your HSA is easy and many don't know how to even do it. With the welness account coming figuring out how much you want to place in either account is important in maximizing your benefits with the employer. It has been a while since the last vi…

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Hospice Nurse Penny on "Influencing Death," End-of-Life Myths, and The Difference Between Hospice and Palliative Care 32:07

2M ago32:07

32:07

Does discussing death actually help us live better? In this episode of the The Gritty Nurse Podcast, Host Amie Archibald-Varley sits down with Penny Hawkins Smith—better known to her millions of followers as Hospice Nurse Penny—to find out. Penny is a certified hospice and palliative care nurse and a "death influencer" who uses social media to comb…

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Screaming to be Heard: The Urgent Fight to Save Black Moms and Their Babies (Karrie Jones and Mercedes Wells Horrifying Experinces with Birth in the US) 39:39

2M ago39:39

39:39

Two Black women. Two different states. One shared, terrifying experience: being ignored by the very people sworn to care for them. Why are Black women in 2025 still screaming to be heard? In this episode of The Gritty Nurse, Amie Archibald-Varley, a former L & D nurse and Maternal Health Expert (Masters in Women's Health) breaks down the viral birt…

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COVID Shot Confirmed Covered by Greenshield 2:19

2M ago2:19

2:19

I got my shot, and not even out of pocket. $119.89 at Costco. If you want it, you can know it was covered by a member with level 2 extended health coverage. Shame on the UCP for not covering it, but the employer has stepped up to the plate and covered it through the metrics availiable. Greenshield will pay for it without you even paying out of pock…

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Are You A Caregiver in Crisis? Discussing Support & Solutions with Ontario Caregiver Organization CEO Amy Coupal 38:39

2M ago38:39

38:39

In this essential episode of the Gritty Nurse podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley engages in a critical discussion with Amy Coupal, CEO of the Ontario Caregiver Organization (OCO), about the vital role of caregivers in Ontario. This conversation illuminates the significant challenges faced by these essential, yet often overlooked, members of the he…

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What is a General Strike. Why should you care. 17:17

2M ago17:17

17:17

What happens when a government decides to stream roll through bad bills? You get a bunch of people talking recall and Gernal Strikes. What does that mean. In order for a general strike to even mean anything a bunch more industry and people have to get on board. Do we have it at this point? I don't know, but I am not sure we do. We need to get there…

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When The Nurse Becomes the Patient: Emily Edwards on Her MS Diagnosis and Fighting to Be Heard 57:16

2M ago57:16

57:16

In this compelling and candid episode of The Gritty Nurse Podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley sits down with a truly inspiring guest: Emily Edwards, RN, founder of Nomad Care Consulting. Emily, a healthcare expert, shares the deeply personal and often frustrating journey of her own Multiple Sclerosis (MS) diagnosis. She details the challenges of be…

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EVERY Nurse Has a Ghost Story: The rule of 3, Crash Carts Outside of Rooms and Never Say The "Q" Word 45:43

2M ago45:43

45:43

In this hauntingly hillarious episode, The Gritty Nurse, Amie Archibald-Varley and guest Co-Host, Matthew Shepherd, discuss why every nurse has a ghost story and the rituals nurses follow religiously. From haunted hospital basements to eerie night shifts, this Halloween special explores the myths, rituals, and real-life experiences that make the nu…

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COVID Shot Covered by Greenshield Level 2. 9:49

2M ago9:49

9:49

Only if you want it. Dependents welcome as well. It is unclear if you will have to get a perscription, but my information is that if you have level 2 coverage you will be able to get the covid booster or shot covered for resonable and customary charges. This is just another area that your benefits are making it easier to get the things the UCP won'…

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Healthcare Can Be Horror: Examining Nursing Portrayals, Asylum History and Medical Phobias in Healthcare 48:45

3M ago48:45

48:45

Why are nurses a favorite target for horror movie villains? Why are nurses seen in movies as either sexy, satanic or dieties? In this spine-chilling episode of The Gritty Nurse, Amie Archibald-Varley and Guest Host Jordan Varley discuss the dark side of cinema's obsession with healthcare horror and nursing horror tropes. We cover everything from th…

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What's Your Fight Language? Decoding Conflict and Communication in Healthcare with Lena Morgan 38:31

3M ago38:31

38:31

Are workplace tensions dragging down your patients' care? You know the feeling: the passive-aggressive emails, the hallway whispers, the moments of silence when communication breaks down. In healthcare, these conflicts aren't just frustrating—they're dangerous. On this powerful episode of The Gritty Nurse podcast, host Amy-Archibald Verli dives dee…

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2025 CUPE Convention - Toronto - Thursday October 10, 2025 Final Day - My thoughts. 12:25

3M ago12:25

12:25

The final day of Convention. My thoughts.By Scott Cush

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2025 CUPE Convention - Toronto - Thursday October 9, 2025 13:40

3M ago13:40

13:40

Lots of business was done, and lots of emotions were had. CUPE convention was a great experience even from my desk in Alberta as I watched it online.By Scott Cush

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The Maligning Manager: We Must Address Substance Use in Healthcare Workers Without Shame! 56:25

3M ago56:25

56:25

In this crucial and eye-opening episode of the Gritty Nurse podcast with host Amie Archibald-Varley and guest host, Jordan Varley, they confront the hidden crisis of addiction within the healthcare industry. This is essential listening for nurses, physicians, social workers, and all healthcare professionals struggling with the stigma of substance a…

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2025 CUPE Convention - Toronto - Wednesday October 8, 2025 8:57

3M ago8:57

8:57

If you have ever wanted to watch CUPE today would have been the day to do so. Congrats to Mark, and Candice they won their seats for another two years. A general resolution at the end of the day nearly broke the convention. At the very least it shows that trauma over resolutions are real and need to be managed properly.…

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2025 CUPE Convention - Toronto - Tuesday October 7, 2025 8:05

3M ago8:05

8:05

By Scott Cush

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2025 CUPE Convention - Toronto - Monday Oct 6, 2025 7:16

3M ago7:16

7:16

By Scott Cush

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2025 CUPE Convention - Toronto - Sunday Oct 5, 2025 11:05

3M ago11:05

11:05

Lets prep for the convention. Have you downloaded the app? Are you going to watch online. Check out the resolutions and look at the app for all your convention needs. I won't be there this year but I want to watch online. My views on the Constitutional Resolutions.By Scott Cush

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The Grievance Procedure L37 Clause 3.00 20:29

3M ago20:29

20:29

This episode covers the L37 grievance procedure. It isn't a solve every problem sort of process but it is offical and it is part of the agreement. Lets talk about the clause. Thanks for listening!By Scott Cush

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Supporting the Postal Workers and Teachers in a World of Back to Work Legislation 13:47

3M ago13:47

13:47

My comments on how the Alberta teacher strike and the postal strike is going to end if you're gonna support them listen to this.By Scott Cush

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A $20M Wake-Up Call:The Landmark DonQuenick Joppy Case, Racism, Retaliation, and the Future of Nursing 56:12

3M ago56:12

56:12

In this eye-opening episode of The Gritty Nurse Podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley and special guest Jerry Soucy unpack the landmark case of DonQuenick Yvonne Joppy, the ICU nurse who courageously challenged racial discrimination, wrongful termination, and retaliation in healthcare. Recently, a federal jury awarded $20 million to Joppy after findi…

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U.S. Healthcare Reform or Disaster? Breaking Down RFK Jr.'s "Big Beautiful Bill" 37:43

4M ago37:43

37:43

In this hard-hitting episode of The Gritty Nurse Podcast with Amie Archibald-Varley, we dive deep into the controversial healthcare proposal dubbed the "Big Beautiful Bill"—a sweeping plan backed by RFK Jr. that claims to overhaul the US healthcare system. But what's really behind this policy? And who stands to lose the most? Joined by Dr. Kaveh Ho…

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Is Nursing a Profession Worth Dying For? No, it's Not... 41:21

4M ago41:21

41:21

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions on suidcide. In this episode, The Gritty Nurse, Amie Archibald-Varley discusses the tragic story of Roseanne, a nurse who died by suicide, highlighting critical issues in mental health staffing, accountability in healthcare, and the need for systemic change. The conversation emphasizes the importan…

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MEBAC update, Christmas for the kids. Executive-at-Large election in October 9:42

4M ago9:42

9:42

Children Christmas Party will be a bit different this year. Our venue cancelled on us short notice. MEBAC changes are coming. You have to declare some numbers for Health Spending Account and the new Wellness Account. We have an Exec-at-Lrg position to be elected in October.By Scott Cush

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Embracing Change in Nursing: The Gritty Nurse is Back 29:26

4M ago29:26

29:26

In this episode of The Gritty Nurse podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley (The Gritty Nurse) and Matt Shepherd, RN discuss the importance of embracing change and personal growth in the nursing profession. They emphasize the need for self-compassion among healthcare professionals, particularly in light of the challenges they face, including burnout an…

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NSFW at Work 27:12

5M ago27:12

27:12

What sort of NSFW goes on at work? Are you doing it now? Should you be aware of it? I have examples.By Scott Cush

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I Got Ghosted, But I am Still Alive To Tell The Tale: Ghosting is NOT Boundary Setting 1:08:59

5M ago1:08:59

1:08:59

***This will be the last ATYPICAL Episode uploaded to THE GRITTY NURSE podcast show! THE GRITTY NURSE RETURNS THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 4TH 2026! The date went well--but you havent heard back--like...EVER. Did your bestie of 10 years suddenly stop talking to you? Are you still WAITING to hear back from that job interview that you did over 6 months ago? Ev…

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The Illusion of Support to Increase Social Capital: Unmasking Peformative Allyship and HACKtivism 49:05

5M ago49:05

49:05

In this episode of the Atypical Podcast, host Amie Archibald-Varley RN, MN and Jordan Varley BSW, RSW delves into the complex world of advocacy work, exploring the responsibilities within their professions (nursing and social work) as well as the challenges of advocacy work. The discussion sheds light on the troubling trend of performative allyship…

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Cheater, Cheater, Pumpkin Eater: When Personal Actions Cost Professional Trust 43:58

6M ago43:58

43:58

*Note: This is NOT a shaming podcast episode.... In the hyper-connected world, every click, like, and share carries a surprising weight, especially for those in professions built on trust. This week on ATYPICAL podcast with Amie Archibald-Varley RN, MN, we dive into the fascinating and often brutal "digital court of public opinion," sparked by the …

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Finding Your Anchor: A 5-Minute Mindfulness Practice for Uncertainty 8:02

6M ago8:02

8:02

Raise your hand if Mondays feel like a personal attack?? Seriously, the start of the work week or the start of a nursing/healthcare rotation (when you're crushing it on those 2s and 3s or 4-on-4-off rotations) can drop a ton of bricks on your vibe. That wave of "ugh, here we go again" anxiety? Been there, felt that. Trouble sleeping Sunday night? A…

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Letter of Understanding 2 - Out of Schedule Rates of Pay 8:25

6M ago8:25

8:25

This episode is about out of scheudle rates of pay.By Scott Cush

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Life is not TYPICAL: Unravelling the Illusion of a Linear Life 56:44

6M ago56:44

56:44

Ever tell yourself that life will finally settle down after this next hurdle? For a brief moment, it seems to—and then life smacks you with the unexpected. Job loss, a new love, divorce papers, your teenager's puberty, a health scare, a new life. Good or bad, it's always change. We crave the constant, but the only thing constant is change. In this …

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5 Not so Good Clauses 8:53

7M ago8:53

8:53

1. 4.07 – On-Call employee 2. 5.10 – Inability to Report 3. 5.17 – Overtime Distribution. 4. Pay notes 2 and 4. 5. Letter of Understanding 8. I would open these up for bargain these in a heartbeat.By Scott Cush

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5 Good Clauses 7:52

7M ago7:52

7:52

1. Section 3 Grievance Procedure 2. 5.02 – Standard Hours of Work 3. 5.18/5.20 – Overtime paid or banked at 2x wage. 4. 6.17 Bereavement Leave 5. 7.05 Vacation EntitlementBy Scott Cush

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Collisions. The Fleet Operator's Handbook 11:04

7M ago11:04

11:04

What do you do when you have a collision. Listen and I will guide you.By Scott Cush

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Beyond the Bedside: Our Healthcare Future (with Former Minister Mark Holland) 37:05

7M ago37:05

37:05

In this poignant and powerful final episode of The Gritty Nurse Podcast, we close this chapter with a truly essential conversation. We are honoured to welcome former Minister Mark Holland, who offers an exclusive look into the federal government's pivotal efforts to improve Canadian healthcare. From the pressing issue of Pharmacare to strategies fo…

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The Cure That Should Be Written Into Policy: Prescribing Housing for Health with Dr. Andrew Boozary 44:20

8M ago44:20

44:20

This week on The Gritty Nurse Podcast, we're diving deep into a topic that's should not be considered revolutionary--but is fundamentally human and morally ethical: the idea that a safe, stable and affordable housing should be considered a prescription for health. Medicine is not just about pills and procedures – it is about examining and dealing w…

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F*ck the Cake, WE WANT Change: Maybe It's Not Time For Celebration For Nurses Week 22:58

8M ago22:58

22:58

Five years have passed since the initial waves of the pandemic, yet the echoes of devastation resonate deeply within Canada's nursing workforce. Burnout remains rampant, exacerbated by chronic understaffing, unsafe patient-to-nurse ratios, and a shocking lack of basic protections against workplace violence. This Nursing Week, the usual calls for ce…

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54th AFL Constitutional Convention in Edmonton 1:12:52

9M ago1:12:52

1:12:52

Here is my report on the Convention, the election, and Chris Smalls. For Reference, Cori Longo ran without a rival, and Gil McGown beat Gregg Mady 60/40 split. I also speak about Chris Smalls and I included an echo track of his talk. Chris spoke to us about Amazon and the Labour Union he helped co-found. Whatever you think of him, it was important,…

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We Need Another Leader: Navigating Difficult Times with Authentic Leadership, Courage and Clarity 56:35

9M ago56:35

56:35

In a world grappling with constant change and unprecedented challenges, the need for effective leadership has never been more critical. Whether it's navigating turbulent times in the workplace, steering through personal storms, or fostering resilience in our communities, strong leadership is the compass that guides us forward. Join us for a vital c…