It's Notts Just Physio

Send us Fan MailJoin us for another inspiring episode of It’s Notts Just Physio, where we sit down with Lily, a third-year Children’s Nursing student, to reflect on her international elective placement in Sri Lanka. Lily shares what motivated her to take part in this opportunity and how the experience shaped her both personally and professionally.This episode explores the realities of healthcare in a global context, the challenges and rewards of observing practice in a different cultural setting, and the skills Lily gained along the way. Packed with honest reflections, personal growth, and practical takeaway tips, it’s a must-listen for students considering an international placement and anyone curious about learning beyond the classroom 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of It’s Notts Just Physio, we’re joined by Benson, now a third-year Adult Nursing student, who reflects on his elective placement in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. As an international student himself, Benson shares what motivated him to take part in an overseas placement and how his background shaped his experience.Benson talks candidly about his time in the accident and emergency department, the challenges he witnessed in a high-pressure clinical environment, and how he learned to navigate them. This thoughtful episode explores powerful reflections on personal resilience, professional growth, and the impact of seeing healthcare through a global lens. The episode offers a valuable insight and inspiration for students considering similar opportunities.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of It’s Notts Just Physio, we’re joined by two top physio students, Will Newman and Sam “Mud” Waters, to talk all things Movember, mental health, and why these conversations genuinely matter.We get into what “it’s okay not to be okay” actually looks like in real life -checking in on your mates, being honest when things aren’t right, and understanding the role we have as clinicians to support more than just the physical side of health. This is about mindset, perspective, and having the courage to speak up.We also highlight the incredible effort behind the Movember campaign, including Jaime Bernaldo de Quiros, Tom Passmore, and Will Craven, who took on an immense challenge -walking approximately 156 miles from The University of Nottingham Highfields all the way to Twickenham to raise awareness and drive these conversations forward. Proper commitment for a proper cause.There’s a strong message here around connection, backing each other, and what can be achieved when people feel supported -whether that’s in sport, uni, clinic, or everyday life.A really important and honest conversation that we hope resonates.Content note: This episode includes discussion around suicide.Useful links:https://andysmanclub.co.ukhttps://notts-talk.co.uk/#The NHS helpline (available 24/7), call 111 and select mental health option 2  The Samaritans (24hr freephone) 116 123  Text SHOUT to 85258 (24hr text support)Movember: https://uk.movember.com/The Hairy Hikers: https://www.instagram.com/thehairyhikers_/Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/Mens Own RFC: https://www.instagram.com/mensownrfc/Bletchley RFC: https://www.instagram.com/bletchleyrufc/Chinnor RFC Thame: https://www.instagram.com/chinnorrfcthame/ 

Send us Fan Mail2nd episode of Mini Series about understanding what actually matters in becoming a safe, effective, confident clinical Physiotherapist. We have Dan Towey, Teaching Associate on UoN sharing his knowledge and experience. 

Send us Fan MailWhat’s first year physio actually like?In this episode, two of our second-year students Max and Tom who sit down with two current first years to get the real story - the highs, the challenges, and everything in between.From finding your feet in those first few weeks, to managing the workload and building confidence, this is an honest, student-led conversation about what to expect.If you’re holding an offer with us or thinking about applying for our course, this is your chance to hear from people who were in your shoes not long ago… and are now thriving.

Send us Fan Mail1st episode of Mini Series about understanding what actually matters in becoming a safe, effective, confident clinical Physiotherapist. 

Send us Fan MailJoin us for a brand-new season of It’s Notts Just Physio. The two Gracies - both third-year Physiotherapy students - kick things off by sitting down with the legend himself, Roger Kerry, to talk through his career and explore how Physiotherapy education and teaching have evolved over the years.It’s a fantastic episode packed with insight into the profession, the shifting landscape of evidence and practice, and how today’s students are being prepared for the future workforce.

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Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Dr Helen Garr Part 2 – The Stigma of Burnout With Special Guest Host, Sam RobertsIn Part 2 of our powerful conversation centred around burnout with the incredible Dr Helen Garr – Medical Director of NHS Practitioner Health and widely known as The Wellbeing GP – we build on personal stories to explore the broader impact of burnout and mental health stigma in healthcare and daily life, while providing practical strategies to manage your own mental health and wellbeing to help avoid burnout.We dive into how stigma continues to silence those who are struggling, and why creating safe, open conversations around mental health is more important than ever. Helen shares practical ways to care for your own wellbeing, prevent burnout, and how physio students and practitioners can play a key role in recognising emotional distress in patients, peers, friends, and family.A must-listen moment in this episode is Helen’s brilliant “5 F’s for Managing Mental Health” – her trusted framework for staying grounded, maintaining positive wellbeing, and staying connected to the world around her. Think of these 5 F’s as your personal protective equipment (PPE) for the mind. They are simple, memorable, and genuinely powerful - and they could change the way you support yourself and others.We also talk about the power of small actions - the importance of a gentle "nudge" - and how seemingly minor encouragements can make a huge difference in someone’s life.💬 The episode wraps with a light-hearted but deeply personal reflection as Helen shares "A Trip to Rome", a heartfelt story about the loss of her mother, the meaning of holidays, and how grief can reshape our view of rest, time, and presence. 🎥 You can also watch her moving video on this story on YouTube.In Japan, there’s a word – Daijoubu – which means “it will be okay.” Let this be your reminder that no matter where you are right now, there is hope, help, and healing ahead.⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of sensitive topics including burnout, depression, suicide, and grief. Please listen with care and remember: you are not alone.Support & Resources If you're struggling or affected by anything discussed in this episode, these resources are here for you:Student Emergency Support – University of NottinghamStudent Wellbeing Services – University of NottinghamNHS Practitioner Health – Confidential support for NHS staffThe Wellbeing GP – Dr Helen Garr’s official siteThe Wellbeing GP on InstagramSamaritans – 24/7 confidential supportPAPYRUS – Support for young people struggling with suicidal thoughtsCALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Mental health support for men and young peopleMind – Mental health support and advocacyHelp in a Crisis – Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHSMind Wellness Action Plan (Workplace tool)Marie Kond

Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Dr Helen Garr Part 1 – Burnout & Finding Confidence Throughout Your Career With Special Guest Host, Sam RobertsWelcome to a two-part special exploring burnout and mental health in the NHS and beyond. In this first episode, I’m joined by the incredible Dr Helen Garr – Medical Director of NHS Practitioner Health and widely known as The Wellbeing GP.Helen shares her personal journey through the world of medicine – from battling imposter syndrome to becoming the confident, compassionate leader she is today. We explore how to spot the early signs of burnout using tools like “temperature checking”, and the importance of tuning into what fuels or drains your wellbeing. We also discuss the prevalence and causes of burnout in the NHS, and why recognising these pressures is a vital step toward change.Expect warmth, honesty, and a few laughs too. We’ll also help you identify your “positive mood blowers” — the people that lift your energy - and how a big-headed book might just help boost your self-belief and confidence when you need it most. As RuPaul says: "If you can't love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?"⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes open conversations about burnout, depression, and suicide. Please listen with care, and know support is available.🔗 Support & Resources If you're struggling or affected by anything discussed in this episode, you're not alone. These resources are here to help:Student Emergency Support – University of NottinghamStudent Wellbeing Services – University of NottinghamNHS Practitioner Health – Confidential support for NHS staffThe Wellbeing GP – Dr Helen Garr’s official siteThe Wellbeing GP on InstagramSamaritans – 24/7 confidential supportPAPYRUS – Support for young people struggling with suicidal thoughtsCALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Mental health support for men and young peopleMind – Mental health support and advocacyHelp in a Crisis – Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS🎧 Coming soon – Part 2! In the next episode, we go even deeper, tackling:The ongoing stigma surrounding mental healthPractical management strategies for burnoutThe benefits of digital detoxing in a connected worldHow to lead with authenticity and model wellbeingAnd how to support and influence the people around you - your friends, family, patients, and colleagues.Stay tuned – Part 2 is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

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Send us Fan MailOn this very special episode of It’s Notts Just Physio, Producer George steps out from behind the scenes to help co-host an exclusive interview with “Super” Sam Austin. From being scouted and picked up by Burton Albion under Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, to becoming a fan favourite at Kidderminster Harriers and starring in the iconic clash with Wrexham that helped secure promotion for Notts County, and now making his mark at Southend United, Sam’s football journey is defined by hard work, adaptability, and resilience.In our conversation, Sam opens up about a recent injury and his recovery process, shares his insights on the behind the scenes of what makes a great physiotherapist, and explores the mental health challenges that come with life in football. This episode gives a real window into the dedication, mindset, and character that have shaped Sam’s career - honest, down-to-earth, and inspiring.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Paul Gill, our new Head of School, to explore his inspiring journey from nursing practice to research and academic leadership. Paul shares key moments from his career, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and offers thoughtful reflections on navigating challenges in both life and in study.Whether you're a student facing your own academic journey or someone interested in the wider world of healthcare and education, Paul’s insights and advice are grounded, motivating, and full of relevance.Tune in for a conversation that blends career reflection with practical wisdom for the road ahead

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of 'It’s Notts Just Physio', we’re joined by Danny Donnelly - a passionate and multi-talented adult nursing student whose journey bridges creativity, care, and community. As a musician, producer, and accessibility consultant, Danny brings a unique perspective to their work as a student nurse, carer, and researcher. Their projects are grounded in empathy and innovation, all with the aim of making spaces more inclusive and connected.Their mission is simple: to amplify unheard voices, create nurturing spaces, and inspire positive change through creativity and care.Supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and supported through generous donations from the University of Nottingham alumni, staff, students and friends through Cascade funding.  Explore the anthologies, animations, community art projects, and carer resources from the project here:https://createwithcare.org/ (Launching mid-July)Support for Carers:Young Carers: youngcarersnotts.co.ukAdult Carers: carershub.carersfederation.co.ukIf you’d like to be part of the growing movement to raise awareness and improve support for carers, or just want to find out more, please feel free to get in touch:[email protected] Warning: This discussion touches on mental health and the experiences of young carers. If this brings up anything difficult for you, please take whatever steps you need to care for yourself, whether that means skipping that part, grounding yourself, or speaking to someone you trust.

Send us Fan MailWe’re thrilled to welcome the awesome Sianne to the podcast this week! Sianne is our brilliant Physiotherapy student intern who’s currently taking a year out from her studies to work with us as part of the teaching team.As a mature student with a previous degree under her belt, Sianne brings a unique and valuable perspective. In this episode, she shares her journey through both studying and teaching, offering honest reflections and insights into life on the current Physiotherapy course.This is one you won’t want to miss!

Send us Fan MailThis episode truly embodies the "Not Just Physio" spirit, as we welcome Claire Mitchell, a final year nursing student, and our guest host Dr Alexandra Carlin to discuss a recent student-led publication. Claire will share her experience of studying at UoN and the how she converted one of her essay’s into a national publication.Claire recognised that cervical screening coverage has been declining in the UK and explored innovative strategies, such as self-sampling, to promote screening. It is hoped that Claire’s journey will inspire others to study and disseminate their work.You can read Claire's publication here: Mitchell, C. and Carlin, A. (2025) Strategies to promote cervical screening for an aging demographic: a global insight. Practice Nursing, 36(1). https://doi.org/10.12968/pnur.2025.36.1.8Blurb goes here

Send us Fan MailDan Towey and Sam Roberts first crossed paths as first year students on the BSc Physiotherapy course. Fast-forward a few years, and they’re now back - this time as teaching associates. In this honest and insightful episode, Sam opens up about his experiences with mental health, specifically depression, and reflect on how it has impacted his studies and the importance of support networks in both personal and professional life.This episode ties in with Mental Health Awareness Week which falls on 12-18th May 2025, reminding us that conversations like this are more important than ever.The duo also tackle the age-old question: which crisps would you take with you to a desert island? Stay tuned for an upcoming episode, where Sam will be hosting a special episode with his former GP, diving into her current work on mental health within the healthcare workforce.If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, please find a list of key resources below:Common signs and symptoms of depressionCognitive Behavioural Therapy - NHSMindCALMSamaritansThe University of Nottingham Counselling Service

Send us Fan MailIt's Notts Just Physio welcome the amazing Claire Thompson to the show. Claire is the Director of student wellbeing, and it was truly amazing to sit and talk around mental health, and the amazing support that she has helped create at the university for our students.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of It’s Notts Just Physio, we’re excited to introduce one of our newest Teaching Associates, Sam Roberts! Sam shares how a football injury kickstarted his journey into physiotherapy and offers valuable insights from his time in clinical practice. Tune in for his top tips on building rapport with patients, setting effective goals, and what truly motivates him in his career.Don’t forget to check out all our links—including a way to have your say about the future of the pod!👉 linktr.ee/itsnottsjustphysio

Send us Fan MailWe are delighted to have Ella Guerin, Assistant Professor of Mental Health Nursing, on this episode of It’s Notts Just Physio! Ella shares her incredible journey into teaching, along with some amazing insights into mental health nursing. Whether you’re a student, a practitioner, or just curious about the field, you won’t want to miss this one!Check out all our links below, including a way to have your say:👉 linktr.ee/itsnottsjustphysio

Send us Fan MailThe first installment of the SUPRA CPD Takeover sees hosts SUPRA President Jack Ledger and Vice-President Josh Griffiths discuss the development and future of the First Contact Practitioner role with one of the main stakeholders Dr Rob Goodwin, while also delving into how interested students may go about pursuing an FCP role during their future careers! Tips, tricks and fantastic insight, listen in!

Send us Fan MailTune in to this insightful episode featuring two of our Year 3 students, Sofia Saavedra Adams and Josh Griffiths, as they continue the conversation around placement experiences. This time, the discussion is focused on the ‘5-9’ of placement—everything outside of work that contributes to a balanced and fulfilling experience.From socialising and exercising to maintaining a healthy diet, they share practical tips on managing your lifestyle while on placement. They also touch on commuting to and from placement and the process of applying for the Learning Support Fund.Whether you're about to start your placement or already navigating it, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you thrive. Don't miss it!

Send us Fan MailTune in to this insightful episode featuring our Year 3 education placement students, Amy Heran, Lewis Wright, and Francesca Moulton. They share their experiences on placement at the University of Nottingham, offering a candid look at the day-to-day challenges and rewards of the 9-to-5 placement life. The discussion covers highs and lows, navigating imposter syndrome, collaborating with fellow physiotherapy students, and practical advice for using PARE (Practice Assessment Record and Evaluation) and updating CPAF documents. Don’t miss their valuable tips and tricks for making the most of your placement journey!Chapter markers:00:11 - Intro02:02 - Education placement experiences so far 04:00 - Physiotherapy placements so far 07:52 - Highs and lows of placement 19:25 - Learning from experiences 25:22 - Imposter syndrome 28:46 - Working with other students on placement 36:02 - Non-clinical placements 40:54 - CPAF documents and using PARE 47:46 - Wrap up 

Send us Fan MailThis episode is the second installment of our Education Placement Takeover and features physiotherapy students Lily Kerrison, Emma Bowen, and Els Eaves as they explore a range of physiotherapy placement topics. They share insights into their education placement experiences at the University of Nottingham, discuss how previous placements have shaped their learning, offer top tips for thriving on placement, and highlight the importance of holistic healthcare within a multidisciplinary team.If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to rate, share, and subscribe to It's Notts Just Physio on your preferred streaming platform.

Send us Fan MailHappy New Year! We’re kicking off the year with the first of many special episodes featuring our Year 3 education placement students, Lucy Munro, Ashira Sears, and Jack Ledger share their unique experiences. They dive into what they loved, the challenges they faced, and offer valuable advice for students considering this placement in the future.This episode shines a spotlight on a distinctive physiotherapy placement setting, offered by only a few universities.As always, if you like what you hear, please rate and share the podcast on your preferred streaming platform. Your support and feedback makes a big difference.Stay tuned for more.

Send us Fan MailThis episode, we are delighted to be joined by special guest host Sam Ravenall who is the Foundation to Health Sciences programme lead as well as Jessica Norris who started her student journey on the Foundation year and who has just completed her Physiotherapy BSc.The foundation year provides students with an alternative route into the Physiotherapy BSc. In this podcast, Jessica shares her experience of studying a Foundation Year during the height of the pandemic and how it prepared her for studying on the degree.

Send us Fan Mail We’re thrilled to welcome the brilliant Dan Towey to the podcast! Dan is a Teaching Associate on the Physiotherapy course, dedicating two days a week to the role while also working clinically as a First Contact Practitioner (FCP). As one of the first to take on the Teaching Associate position at the school, Dan brings a unique perspective. In this episode, he shares his journey as a mature physiotherapy student at the University of Nottingham, his transition into teaching, and the many aspects of his life that bring him joy and fulfillment. Don't miss this in depth conversation! 

Send us Fan MailThis episode packs a punch with the brilliant Becky Mayo, who joins us from the Sports Rehabilitation program!Becky, a former University of Nottingham student, excelled during her time on the Sports Rehabilitation course and now brings her expertise full circle by teaching on the program. Tune in as Becky shares her journey from her experiences as a student, to navigating the transition into the world of work, and ultimately returning to teach.This is a must-listen episode that offers valuable insights into the student experience, the realities of starting a career, and the rewarding path of giving back through teaching.

Send us Fan MailWe are delighted to welcome Asavari to the podcast! Asavari is the University of Nottingham Year 2 lead in Physiotherapy. She is also a Physiotherapist with a specialist interest in Neurological rehabilitation. Asavari talks about her career so far, and what its like to be a student who has had to study abroad when she left home to come to study in the UK.  Asavari gives some really key insights to these experiences and talks about the support structures we have at the University to help students settle in. This is a great episode and one you don't want to miss!

Send us Fan MailCheck out the brilliant "It's Notts Just Physio" podcast and listen to the insightful discussion with Roger Kerry (Physiotherapy Programme Lead) and James Coughlan (Human Function Module Lead). They delve into the importance of SGD, why it’s a vital part of your learning, and its significance for your personal development and future clinical career!

Send us Fan MailListen with Ryan and James as they sit down and talk through the different ways of learning anatomy to help prepare you for the course! Ryan and James also discuss the reason you learn anatomy on the course, and how this applies to becoming a physiotherapist.

Send us Fan MailListen to this great episode as  Jack Ledger and Josh Griffiths who are the President and Vice presidents of the Student Union Physiotherapy and sports Rehabilitation Association (SUPRA) warmly welcome you all to the family! Tune in to hear what you can expect from being apart of the society, and all the amazing things it has to offer!

Send us Fan MailWe are delighted to welcome Ryan Smith who is the new year 1 lead for Physiotherapy! Have a listen to Ryan and find out more about what you can expect from your first year on the course!   Ryan also shares insight on his career so far, and what he likes to do in his spare time. If you have any year lead questions, please don’t hesitate to email him on [email protected].

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Episode 8 of "It's Notts Just Physio." We are delighted to have the brilliant Kat Cheng on the pod with us! Kat shares her experiences within her role in safeguarding at the School of Health Sciences. Safeguarding is a crucial aspect within the world of health care, as well as for our own general well-being. We appreciate that this topic can be quite emotionally heavy, so please be warned throughout. Tune in for an insightful and important discussion!”For any students listening who feel they to talk to anyone regarding the content in this episode, please contact your personal tutor or Kat Cheng [email protected] (who is with us until October). Or go to the student wellbeing page: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/currentstudents/wellbeing/student-wellbeing.aspx For any non-University of Nottingham students listening who have been affected by this episode, we advise you to speak with your GP or a healthcare professional. There is also the website for Mind https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/local-minds/ which may also be of help.

Send us Fan MailWe are delighted for Episode 7 to welcome the incredible Beth Yearsley!  Beth Is an esteemed Nottingham alumni turned SU (Students’ Union) Director, and she shares with us her evolution from student to leader. Discover intriguing stories, practical career tips, and invaluable advice for maximising your university years! Tune in for an authentic and enriching exploration of Beth's remarkable path, and gain insights to fuel your own journey. The SU is a key hub at the university with so much support, fun and friends to be made there! So, if you haven’t yet checked it out, please do so!Content warning – please be advised that this episode contains reference to the major incident and student deaths of last June, and listener discretion is advised. The section of the podcast which contains this content is 28:40 to 28:55 and listeners should only proceed if they are comfortable to do so.

Send us Fan MailWe're thrilled to welcome Dr Fiona Moffatt to Episode 6! In this episode, Fiona shares her remarkable journey as a physiotherapist and delves into what drives her passion for teaching today. She also discusses her extraordinary research and emphasises the significant role that sports rehabilitators and physiotherapy students play in making a global impact. This is an episode you won't want to miss!

Send us Fan MailIn Conversation with Zoe: Leadership, Clinical Placements, and Future Goals Join us for an insightful episode featuring the brilliant Zoe, a third-year physiotherapy student with a passion clinical practice. Zoe shares her journey through physiotherapy school, offering valuable advice on navigating clinical placements and building strong teamwork skills. She also discusses her experiences as a team captain, exploring how she's grown into her role and the impact she's had on her peers.Beyond sharing her placement tips, Zoe opens up about her future plans, providing a glimpse into her aspirations as she prepares to graduate. Whether you're a physiotherapy student, an aspiring healthcare professional, or just curious about the journey through university, Zoe's story is sure to inspire and inform.

Send us Fan MailWe are delighted to be joined by the brilliant Natalie Sharratt who is about to graduate from the undergraduate physio programme! Nat is a mature student, and she shares her wonderful insights on being a student over the last 3 years! Listen in as as she shares some amazing news about her dissertation, her career prospects, how to maintain a healthy study/life balance as well as key insights on how to navigate through the course.  

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Steph, a third-year Physiotherapy student, shares valuable insights into her experience here at Nottingham. Tune in to hear her fantastic advice for first and second-year students on revision, exams, and general support.Steph also oversees the Peer Mentor Scheme, a crucial support system for students, and provides insightful information on how you can get involved.

Send us Fan MailAcademic plan lead for Sport Rehabilitation (BSc) Richard Moss goes through career trajectory having previously held Senior Lecturer roles at the University of Bedfordshire (2015-2018) and Leeds Beckett University (2014-2015), as well as Lecturer and Course Leader roles at the University of Northampton / Moulton College (2007-2013).We also go through a typical day in the life of Richard's role as well as the growth of the Sport Rehab profession and much more.

Send us Fan MailWe had the pleasure to sit down with Physiotherapy superstar Roger Kerry. Roger is the programme lead for undergraduate BSc Physiotherapy at the University of Nottingham.As well as being a professor, having a PHD and multiple global publications to his name, Roger goes through some of his teaching experiences, the development of the new Physiotherapy curriculum, what he enjoys doing in his spare time, and discusses the risings costs of music tickets!