When it comes to advocacy in the health sector, Karen Booth is a legend.
A nurse and former past president of the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) Karen is well known for being able to cut through the noise and make a difference.
I first met Karen in 2017 when I started working at APNA as a policy advisor and during that time was struck by her diplomacy and ability to bring others with her on the advocacy journey.
Karen is also incredibly warm and generous with her extensive knowledge.
I was able to tee up this interview with her (see above) to chat about all things advocacy.
Karen describes her path to becoming a nurse leader and strong advocate for the primary health care nursing workforce.
She also discusses pushing through the nerves to stand up and make sure you're heard, along with key policies she's worked on to benefit nurses and the healthcare sector.
Karen lists data and research as key ingredients for advocacy. And advises asking for help if you need it.
"Is there an expert on this? Is there someone who can advise me to coach me through a particular point?"
"I think talking with facts instead of anecdote really gets you across the line and it gets you asked back to the next committee or the next advisory group where you can advocate on behalf of your profession."
For engaging with ministers and key decision makers, Karen says lean into real stories and offer solutions.
"They love case studies and stories. So, if you have a story that can illustrate your point… that I think (that) helps make it real for those people."
Listen to the full interview with Karen to hear more of her tips.