About this episode

Alanna Ball interviews Yvonne Hinch about her transition from physiotherapy to health and safety leadership, emphasizing the importance of human factors and systems thinking.

In this episode, Alanna Ball speaks with Yvonne Hinch about her journey from musculoskeletal physiotherapist to health and safety leader. What began as a desire to help people physically evolved into a broader commitment to improving how work is designed and how people are supported within systems. Their conversation explores the role of human factors and systems thinking in modern safety practice, and why understanding behaviour, context, and organisational culture is just as important as managing hazards. Yvonne shares openly about navigating risk conversations, influencing leadership with both assertiveness and diplomacy, and the courage required to advocate for safer outcomes. Episode highlights Yvonne’s transition from physiotherapy into health and safety, driven by a people-focused mindset Why human factors and systems thinking are essential to effective risk management Addressing antisocial behaviour in the workforce through a holistic approach The importance of professional courage when managing complex risks Influencing leaders with clarity, confidence, and diplomacy Overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence over time Learning from mistakes as part of…

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