The Physio Spill

How do you create space for the right, critical, or opportune moment or kairos (greek definition)?  You could say Andrew, a 70 cap Ireland international, one club Ulsterman and technology entrepreneur is a man who knows exactly how to do this.  He talks about his journey thus far, inspired by a high degree of self reflection and processes to create confidence around success. We learn about the transferable skills that have held him in good stead and the many things he has had to learn along the way.  Finally we discuss the importance of creativity and its place in both business and sport.  Are you ready to have your creative thinking hat on, this is a brilliant episode!

This episode hosts Mick "Baz" Rathbone previous professional footballer for Birmingham City, Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End before an established career as a physiotherapist which culminated in heading up the medical department at Everton Football Club.  He has also authored two books and his storytelling skills are not wasted here.  It was not all plain sailing for Baz, at one point he was down and out before he re-invented himself in a move which changed his life.  This episode provides a humbling insight to the highs and lows of professional football and how to become a millionaire in life!  Baz and his enthusiasm are contagious and inspires us all to enjoy our experiences as we travel through the journey of life!  

We are back and with a bang! This episode hosts Dr Simon Perritt the lead doctor for St Helens Rugby League and Chief Medical Officer for the Rugby League World Cup.  As we take a walk along Simons journey from life as the son and assistant to a large animal veterinary surgeon to the lofty heights of multiple Grand Final championships, we understand the challenges of maintaining a healthy balance of life alongside a successful career in general practice and sports medicine.  Finally we understand the meaning and significance of an alarm of 04:05 every day!  Set your alarm early and make sure you are up to listen to this one.  

In the face of adversity many people break or become stronger.  This is an inspiring story of how determination, a positive mental attitude and growth mindset can overcome every inch of it; injury, retirement, bankruptcy, divorce to name a few, to become not only an inspiring person but also successful author, videographer, brother and father.  Stuart Reardon talks us through his journey in his previous life as a professional rugby league player from Bradford to an internationally published co-author of 6 books.  Make sure when you listen to this you are "all in" or don't bother!

Ever wondered what excellence sounds like in professional sport?  One of only three people to win the Lance Todd Trophy, Harry Sunderland trophy and the Man of Steel Award, Paul Wellens shares his experiences as both a player and coach at St Helens Rugby League and how to frame both success and failure as part of personal and collective growth.  This story exudes a strong theme of self-reflection, education and development that will provides an insight into what it takes to be truly great!  

Joel Thompson tells his moving and authentic story about his journey from a small town called Ivanhoe in Australia to St Helens in the United Kingdom.  He talks of how he escaped a life of violence and substance abuse to flourish on the field in the NRL.  Not is all as it seems as we discover his challenges around identity, mental health and the importance of remaining authentic to ones own values and beliefs.  This is all interwoven with the reasons behind his retirement, his plans and aspirations for the future.  His story has already helped so many and this listen will certainly reach even more, we are so excited to share this one!

Have you ever pondered the parallels between the delivery of orthopaedic surgery and car mechanics?  Look no further! Professor Len Funk takes us on a deeper dive into the personal and professional "checks" and "balances" required to be a successful shoulder surgeon.  We learn about the importance of team work, multi-disciplinary learning and ultimately "caring" about our patients.  This is topped off with a brief discussion around Lens love of Mustangs and some of the learnings he takes from some of the specialists he uses in that respect!  Enjoy this one, we certainly did.

Ever wondered what a sport psych thinks?  Look no further!  We take a deeper dive into the person behind the sport psych, Tom Young talks us through his story and illustrates some of the challenges of delivering high performance team dynamics and leadership.  We learn from some of his mistakes, successes and process of thinking around how he frames his life and practice.  If this does not stimulate some reflection and thought, nothing will.....growth or scale?

Ashton tells his powerful and moving story, one that will hopefully encourage thought, discussion and a change in how you see the world!  In the first part of this 50 minute story he talks about his experiences of childhood through to the present day and how his stand against racism started by standing up for a friend.  In the second half he walks us through the emotional rollercoaster of a career threatening injury.  What happens when both worlds collide?  We will let you listen in and understand, dont miss this one!

The inaugural physiospill pod was one that was fitting.....and one that could have gone on way longer too!  James "Jammer" Graham takes us through his learnings, decision making and outlook on both past and present as a rugby league player, pundit, ambassador, husband and father.  This is not one to be missed for sure.  It was always destined to be great, or was it coincidence?!  We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.