It's Notts Just Physio

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On 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.

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In 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

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In 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.uk
Adult Carers: carershub.carersfederation.co.uk

If 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]

Trigger 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.

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We’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!

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This 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.2025.36.1.8

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Dan 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 depression
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - NHS
• Mind
• CALM
• Samaritans
• The University of Nottingham Counselling Service

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It'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.

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In 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