In this episode Shane is joined by long-time Environmental Health Officer Megan Nilon, who shares a story set in a tiny Western Queensland town of just 100 people, inside a century-old country pub where she uncovers everything from pests to structural challenges. What unfolds is a transformation, not just of a business, but of a community’s pride and wellbeing, as Megan demonstrates how education, empathy, and persistence can turn a struggling establishment into a thriving gathering place.
In this episode Shane and Environmental Health Officer and President of the New Zealand Institute of Environmental Health, Tanya Morrison, delve into the under-regulated world of the appearance industry. Drawing on her in-depth research of tattooing, piercing, and beauty therapy both in New Zealand and abroad, Tanya sheds light on the hidden public health risks, from infections to allergic reactions, and the alarming lack of consistent by-laws.
Thank you to our guest: Tanya Morrison
Check out NZIEH on face book (@TheNZIEH) and LinkedIn. They have International memberships available too all on their website: www.nzieh.org.nz
Also Check out the two publications discussed in this episode: www.nzieh.org.nz/publications
Hosted by: Shane van de Vorstenbosch
Edited by: Josh Granger
In this episode of EHO Knows, Shane sits down with Lydia Buchtmann, the tenacious force behind the Food Safety Information Council. For nearly 30 years, Lydia has championed public education on everything from handwashing to deadly mushrooms. They explore the Council’s vital role in closing the consumer knowledge gap, and Lydia’s personal story of turning passion into purpose when funding disappeared. Discover how food safety education supports the work of EHOs and how getting involved can amplify your impact and help build a safer, more food-literate Australia.
Please consider supporting the food safety information council here: https://www.foodsafety.asn.au/
Thank you to our guest - Lydia Buchtmann
Hosted by - Shane van de Vorstenbosch
Edited by - Josh Granger
In this episode of EHO Knows, Shane is joined by Andrew Mathieson to explore how technology is transforming the work of Environmental Health Officers. From remote inspections and smart data tools to AI-driven assessments and hygiene-testing tech, this conversation highlights practical innovations already making a difference. Tune in to hear how EHOs can embrace these tools to work smarter, support businesses, and keep communities safer in a rapidly changing world.
Thank you to our guest: Andrew Mathieson
Hosted by: Shane van de Vorstenbosch
Edited by: Josh Granger
In this episode of EHO Knows, Shane sits down with Andrew Waters for his second episode on flood but this time taking a look at the aftermath. Listen in for a fascinating conversation about arriving at Fitzroy Crossing in the wake of devastating floods.
This episode goes beyond immediate disaster response, highlighting the crucial role Environmental Health Officers play in helping communities not just survive a disaster but recover and rebuild safely afterwards.
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Thank you to our guest: Andrew Waters
Hosted by: Shane van de Vorstenbosch
Edited by: Josh Granger
In this episode Shane reunites with Sarah Ainsworth, President of Environmental Health Australia (NSW), to continue their conversation on:
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In this episode Shane reunites with Sarah Ainsworth, President of Environmental Health Australia (NSW), to continue their conversation on:
Follow us on Facebook for updates, special features and to let us know what you love or want to see more of.
Shane teams up with Jason Scarborough to get behind the gavel in this courtroom-themed episode, Law and Order: EHO Unit. When Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) are called to testify, how can they be ready to take the stand with confidence? Shane and Jason break down the best strategies for EHOs and their managers, sharing essential tips, required reading, and a few behind-the-scenes insights. Whether you're preparing for your day in court or just want to stay ahead of the game, this episode serves up justice—EHO style! DUN DUN.
Shane sits down with Sarah Ainsworth, El Presidente of EHA NSW, for the first of a two-part conversation on the vital role of EHOs and what does the future have in store. Environmental health officers are often told that “silence is a standing ovation,” Sarah and Shane discuss why it’s more important than ever for governments and the public to understand what EHOs do. Could there be a new hope for EHOs across the galaxy? Tune in to find out.
Thank you to our guest -Sarah Ainsworth
Hosted by -Shane van de Vorstenbosch
Edited and Produced by -Josh Granger
Shane sits down with the enthusiastic Ariana Johnson to talk about her early days as an EHO and what makes the role so appealing to a younger audience. They dive into how the job taps into childhood dreams of curiosity and problem-solving. In a break from the usual format, this episode reflects on how we can better recruit and inspire the next generation of EHOs—sharing ideas, experiences, and insights to keep the profession thriving.
Thank you to our Guest - Ariana Johnson
Hosted by - Shane van de Vorstenbosch
Edited and Produced by - Josh Granger
The captioning issues should be properly resolved by the next episode but once again wed like to apologize for this.
In this episode, Shane chats with EHO guest Max Payne (no, not that Max Payne) about the infamous "Pied Piper Incident." What started as a routine trainee inspection turned into uncovering a subterranean rat metropolis beneath a shopping centre. From the first signs of scratches and chewed packaging to rats dangling out of meat boxes and a full-blown warren swarming with hundreds of rodents, it’s a story that’s equally shocking, eye-opening, and darkly hilarious. Join us as we dive into the chaos, the unexpected challenges EHOs face, and why this job is never boring (or for the faint-hearted). Alopgises to our video watchers this episode, the captions were less than perfect.
In this gripping second episode of EHO Knows, Shane chats with Cameron Smith about the extreme challenges of being an Environmental Health Officer during the devastating Lismore floods. Cameron shares how he was thrown into chaos, managing everything from securing vital medications to addressing nicotine dependency—all while dealing with COVID-19. Discover what it means to “fill the void” for your community when disaster strikes and how adaptability becomes an EHO’s greatest tool.
Thank you to our guest - Cameron Smith
Hosted by - Shane van de Vorstenbosch
Edited by - Josh Granger
In the explosive first episode of EHO Knows, Shane van de Vorstenbosch sits down with Lauriston Muirhead to uncover the shocking story behind Albury's mass Salmonella outbreak that sickened over 100 people. Lauriston reveals how a single egg turned into a hidden time bomb, unleashing a Salmonella "bomb" that destroyed a gourmet burger joint and threatened lives. Lauriston shares the intense reality of managing a public health crisis.
Get a sneak peek into EHO Knows—the podcast for Environmental Health Officers, hosted by Shane van de Vorstenbosch. From salmonella outbreaks to navigating floods, this teaser highlights real stories, valuable insights, and the moments that define life in environmental health. With diverse guests and plenty of lessons learned, EHO Knows offers something for every EHO, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out.
First episode drops November 25—subscribe now!
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/corinne/easy-to-find