The Start Up Support Surgery

In this episode Jo welcomes Beth Derry, nervous system educator, speaker and founder of Lovely Messy Humans. After more than 25 years working in sustainability and communications, Beth began building a new business in her 40s, alongside her established career and life as a single mum.

Beth shares how a growing sense that she was meant to do something different led her to speak openly about her experience of self-harm at university. What began with small talks for parents evolved into work with schools and businesses, helping people understand the science behind our nervous systems and the behaviours that can hold us back. Jo and Beth explore why stepping outside a familiar professional identity can feel so difficult, from fear of visibility and public speaking to worries about being qualified enough. Beth explains how understanding nervous system responses helped her make sense of her own experiences, reduce shame and gradually become more comfortable being seen and heard. The conversation also looks at building a business without getting swept up in the noise of online advice. Beth shares the value of intuition, small experiments and genuine conversations, as well as the security of keeping existing work while a new venture takes shape. She offers practical insights into preparing for public speaking, regulating nerves and practising in manageable steps. This episode is a thoughtful reminder that you don't need to have everything figured out before you begin. Beth's journey shows how lived experience, curiosity and self-trust can help you find an authentic way to make a difference.

Key Topics Covered: - Beth's journey from sustainability and communications to nervous system education - Sharing lived experience of self-harm and reducing shame - Understanding fear, visibility and nervous system responses - Building a business through small steps, experimentation and conversation - Managing public speaking nerves and practising with confidence - Balancing a new venture with existing work and financial security - Trusting your intuition and finding an authentic professional identity

To connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/

Don't forget to download your free PDF guide, From Stethoscope to Startup, available in the show notes!

To find out more about Beth: - Website: https://lovelymessyhumans.com/

In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo sits down with Luke Mitchell, a former doctor turned financial advisor, who shares his remarkable journey from medicine to entrepreneurship.

Luke recounts his experiences competing in six Spartan races over two weekends, which serve as a metaphor for the challenges he faced in his career transition. He reflects on his early aspirations to become a doctor, influenced by his family's healthcare background, and the doubts that lingered throughout his medical training.

As the conversation unfolds, Luke reveals how his interest in personal finance blossomed during his time as a junior doctor, especially after moving to Sheffield and experiencing the financial dynamics of family life. The pandemic provided him with the opportunity to delve deeper into financial education, leading him to ultimately leave medicine behind in pursuit of a more fulfilling career.

Jo and Luke discuss the complexities of financial literacy among medics, addressing the common discomfort around discussing money and the importance of understanding personal finances. Luke highlights the emotional aspects of financial planning and how clarity can alleviate uncertainty, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their future.

Throughout the episode, Luke shares valuable insights into the entrepreneurial journey, including the importance of autonomy, networking, and embracing uncertainty. His advice encourages listeners to follow their interests and take small risks, reminding them that exploration and learning are key to personal and professional growth.

Key Topics Covered: - Luke's transition from medicine to financial advising - The significance of personal finance education for medics - Overcoming discomfort around discussing money - The emotional impact of financial planning - Embracing uncertainty in entrepreneurship - The importance of autonomy and flexibility in work-life balance

To connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/

To find out more about Luke: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-luke-mitchell-1b5991346/

In this episode, Jo is joined by the inspiring Dr. Aisling Farrell, an Irish GP and lifestyle medicine advocate.

Aisling shares her remarkable journey from hospital medicine to leading the lifestyle medicine service at UPMC Swords Outreach Centre in Dublin, while also juggling her role as a lecturer at UCC and pursuing a PhD.

During their conversation, Aisling discusses her passion for preventative health and how her experiences during the pandemic prompted a shift in her career towards lifestyle medicine. She reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her path, including the influence of a memorable lecture on blue zones and the importance of community in her entrepreneurial journey.

Jo and Aisling delve into the challenges of finding a niche in the lifestyle medicine space and the lessons learned along the way. Aisling shares her insights on the significance of aligning values with professional opportunities, particularly in her recent partnership with Tesco Ireland, where she promotes nutrition and healthy living.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting one's instincts, embracing experimentation, and surrounding oneself with a supportive community. Aisling's story will inspire listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the possibilities that lie ahead.

Key Topics Covered: - Aisling's transition from hospital medicine to lifestyle medicine - The impact of community and mentorship on entrepreneurial journeys - Finding a niche in lifestyle medicine and the importance of values - The role of social media in building a brand and reaching audiences - Tips for aspiring entrepreneurs in the healthcare space - Embracing experimentation and trusting your gut in business decisions

To connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/

Don't forget to download your free PDF guide, From Stethoscope to Startup, available in the show notes! Introduction to Emma's journey Challenges faced after GP training The impact of joining the Start Up Support Surgery programme Key learnings and light bulb moments The importance of community support Next steps for Rebellious Health Advice for healthcare professionals considering entrepreneurship

https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freemembership

To find out more about Aisling: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draislingfarrell/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aisling-farrell-lifestyle-medicine/

In this episode Jo welcomes the dynamic Pippa Goulden, founder of The PR Set and an expert in public relations strategy. With over 15 years of experience in leading PR agencies and as a magazine editor, Pippa shares her insights on how founders can elevate their visibility and credibility in their respective fields.

Pippa delves into the essence of PR, explaining how it differs from marketing and why third-party endorsements can significantly enhance trust and authority for businesses. She discusses the common challenges faced by medics and entrepreneurs in putting themselves forward and the mindset shifts necessary to embrace visibility.

The conversation takes a personal turn as Pippa shares her journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, revealing the transformative power of mindset work and community support in navigating the highs and lows of running a business. Jo and Pippa explore practical strategies for leveraging PR, including pitching for opportunities and understanding the importance of a strategic PR plan tailored to individual business goals.

This episode is packed with valuable tips for anyone in the healthcare profession looking to step outside their comfort zone and make an impact through effective PR. Pippa's mantra, "send the email," serves as a rallying cry for listeners to take action and pursue their dreams with confidence.

Key Topics Covered: - Understanding the role of PR in building trust and credibility - The difference between PR and marketing - Overcoming mindset barriers in promoting oneself - Strategies for effective pitching and visibility - The importance of community and support in entrepreneurship - Building an authority ecosystem through various platforms

To find out and connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/

Don't forget to download your free PDF guide, From Stethoscope to Startup, available in the show notes! Introduction to Emma's journey Challenges faced after GP training The impact of joining the Start Up Support Surgery programme Key learnings and light bulb moments The importance of community support Next steps for Rebellious Health Advice for healthcare professionals considering entrepreneurship

https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freemembership

To connect with Pippa: - Website: https://theprset.com

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pippatheprset/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pippagoulden/

ntroduction to Pippa Goulden and her PR expertise Understanding PR vs. Marketing Overcoming mindset barriers in PR Pippa's journey from corporate to entrepreneur Strategies for effective PR pitching The importance of community support Building an authority ecosystem Pippa's final tips for healthcare professionals

In this special bonus episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo celebrates the second anniversary of the podcast with an exciting refresh and a heartfelt conversation with Sue McKenzie, one of the original creators of the iconic Banoffi Pie.

Jo reflects on the evolution of the podcast and its mission to support medics with ideas, focusing on the entrepreneurial journey and the importance of creativity, community, and experimentation. This episode dives into the unexpected connection that arose from a trademark application concerning the Banoffi Pie business model. Jo and Sue share their delightful conversation that emerged from this formal situation, highlighting the serendipitous nature of entrepreneurship and the power of curiosity.

Sue recounts her journey of opening the Hungry Monk restaurant in 1968, where the beloved dessert was born. With a blend of laughter and nostalgia, she shares the story behind the creation of Banoffi Pie and its remarkable journey into culinary fame. The discussion also touches on themes of relationships, networking, and the joy of building something meaningful from the ground up.

This episode serves as a reminder that even the most mundane situations can lead to extraordinary outcomes and connections. Jo and Sue's conversation encapsulates the spirit of entrepreneurship, encouraging listeners to embrace their ideas and the relationships that can help them flourish.

Key Topics Covered: - The evolution of The Start Up Support Surgery podcast - The story behind the creation of Banoffi Pie - The significance of curiosity and conversation in business - Navigating trademark issues and building relationships - The importance of community support in entrepreneurship - Reflections on personal and professional growth through unexpected connections

To connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/

In this short Summer Series of Client Stories, Jo is excited to present the incredible Dr. Rebecca Ryle, affectionately known as Bex.

With a rich history of friendship and mentorship spanning nearly two decades, Bex shares her journey from being a GP partner to becoming a freelance travel coach, helping families embrace adventurous travel experiences.

Bex reflects on her initial struggles and the pivotal moments that led her to seek Jo's guidance. She discusses the challenges of balancing her medical career with her passion for travel, and how Jo's coaching provided her with the confidence and clarity to turn her ideas into a viable business. Through practical advice and encouragement, Jo helped Bex identify her niche and develop a product that resonates with families eager to explore the world.

The conversation highlights the importance of creativity and personal fulfilment in the life of a healthcare professional. Bex's story is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and community support, showcasing how one can navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship while remaining committed to their medical career.

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone contemplating a similar journey, offering inspiration and practical tips for integrating personal passions with professional commitments. Key Topics Covered: - Bex's journey from GP to travel coach - The importance of mentorship and community - Overcoming challenges in adventurous family travel - Strategies for balancing a medical career with entrepreneurial ambitions - The role of market research in developing a successful business - Embracing creativity and personal growth in entrepreneurship Key Takeaways: 1. Seek mentorship to gain confidence and clarity in your entrepreneurial journey. 2. Embrace your unique skills and experiences to create a valuable offering. 3. Balance your professional commitments with your personal passions for a fulfilling life. 4. Engage in market research to validate your ideas and understand your audience. 5. Allow yourself the freedom to experiment and learn from both successes and failures.

To connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/

To find out more about Bex and her travel coaching services: - Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ryell-52057153/

- Website - https://www.rebeccaryell.co.uk/

In this episode Jo cotinues her short series of Client Stories by welcoming Dr. Verity Jones, an NHS GP and sexual health doctor, who is embarking on an exciting venture to establish a remote clinic for perimenopausal and menopausal women dealing with chronic pain.

Verity shares her journey from feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of starting a business to finding clarity and purpose through Jo's coaching programme.

Before joining Jo's community, Verity faced numerous challenges, juggling her roles as a GP and a mother to two young children. She candidly discusses the personal impact of her uncertainty and the daunting task of stepping outside the NHS bubble to pursue her entrepreneurial aspirations. Verity highlights the transformative experience she had in Jo's Clarity cohort, where she was encouraged to explore her motivations and the purpose behind her business idea.

Throughout the conversation, Verity reflects on the importance of community support and how it has propelled her forward. She shares her excitement about welcoming her first client and the progress she has made since starting her journey. Verity also emphasises the significance of pacing herself as she builds her business while balancing family life and other professional commitments.

This episode serves as an inspiring reminder that starting a business is a marathon, not a sprint, and that having the right support can make all the difference. Verity's story resonates with anyone considering a leap into entrepreneurship, particularly in the healthcare sector.

Key Topics Covered: - Verity's journey from NHS GP to entrepreneur - Overcoming personal challenges and self-doubt - The role of Jo's coaching programme in her development - The importance of community and support in entrepreneurship - Strategies for balancing business with family life - Insights on building confidence and visibility in a new venture

To find out and connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/

Don't forget to download your free PDF guide, From Stethoscope to Startup, available in the show notes! Introduction to Emma's journey Challenges faced after GP training The impact of joining the Start Up Support Surgery programme Key learnings and light bulb moments The importance of community support Next steps for Rebellious Health Advice for healthcare professionals considering entrepreneurship

https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freemembership

To connect with Verity and learn more about her clinic: - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-verity-jones-800561349/

Liu Batchelor can be found here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/liubatchelor/

In this episode Jo cotinue the Cl;ient Stories series, and invites you to listen to the inspiring journey of Dr. Manisha Bhatnagar, a GP who has successfully transitioned into the entrepreneurial world by establishing the Liverpool Clinic.

Manisha shares her story of transformation, detailing the initial struggles she faced as she sought clarity and direction amidst a sea of ideas.

Reflecting on her journey, Manisha discusses how her initial uncertainty led her to seek guidance from Jo. Through one-on-one sessions and the Start Up Support Surgery programme, she gained the confidence and structure needed to turn her vision into reality. Manisha highlights the importance of having a mentor who understands her unique needs and challenges, and how this support was pivotal in her decision-making process.

Throughout their conversation, Manisha emphasises the key breakthroughs she experienced, including the moment she realised her true passion for setting up a clinic focused on advanced joint and tendon treatments. Her journey is a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and the courage to embrace change.

This episode serves as a motivational reminder for healthcare professionals contemplating a shift into entrepreneurship, showcasing how clarity, support, and determination can lead to remarkable outcomes.

Key Topics Covered:

- Manisha's transition from GP to clinic owner

- The challenges of starting a business in healthcare

- The impact of mentorship and community support

- Key breakthroughs in clarity and focus

- Building a successful clinic and its services

- Insights on overcoming uncertainty and finding direction

To connect with Manisha and learn more about the Liverpool Clinic: - https://www.theliverpoolclinic.com/

To find out and connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/ Don't forget to download your free PDF guide, From Stethoscope to Startup, available in the show notes! Introduction to Emma's journey Challenges faced after GP training The impact of joining the Start Up Support Surgery programme Key learnings and light bulb moments The importance of community support Next steps for Rebellious Health Advice for healthcare professionals considering entrepreneurship

https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freemembership

Liu Batchelor can be found here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/liubatchelor?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios

In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo presents an inspiring client story featuring Dr. Emma Presern, founder of Rebellious Health. Emma shares her transformative journey from GP to entrepreneur, revealing how she turned her passion for supporting healthcare professionals into a thriving business. Emma discusses her initial struggles with uncertainty after completing her GP training and her desire to create a unique path in healthcare. She reflects on how joining the Start Up Support Surgery programme provided her with the confidence, community, and practical knowledge she needed to launch her group programme aimed at helping doctors experiencing burnout. Throughout their conversation, Emma highlights the importance of understanding her 'why' and who she wanted to serve, which became pivotal in shaping her business. She also emphasises the invaluable support from her peers in the programme, noting that the community aspect was instrumental in her growth and success. This episode is a powerful reminder of the potential for healthcare professionals to redefine their careers and make a meaningful impact in their communities. Emma's story is sure to resonate with anyone contemplating a transition from traditional medical roles to innovative entrepreneurial ventures. Key Topics Covered: - Emma's transition from GP to entrepreneur - The challenges of starting a business in healthcare - The role of community and support in entrepreneurship - Identifying your target audience and purpose - Building a business that aligns with personal values - Insights on overcoming self-doubt and perfectionism To connect with Emma and learn more about Rebellious Health: - Website: https://www.rebelliousmedic.com/ To find out and connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/ Don't forget to download your free PDF guide, From Stethoscope to Startup, available in the show notes! Introduction to Emma's journey Challenges faced after GP training The impact of joining the Start Up Support Surgery programme Key learnings and light bulb moments The importance of community support Next steps for Rebellious Health Advice for healthcare professionals considering entrepreneurship

https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freemembership

Liu Batchelor can be found here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/liubatchelor?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios

In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo presents a captivating client story featuring Dr. Mari Walling, a GP and co-founder of the online menopause clinic, Lamala Health. Mari shares her transformative journey from redundancy to entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges she faced as she sought structure and purpose after leaving her traditional medical role.

Mari candidly discusses her experience joining the Start Up Support Surgery programme alongside her co-founder, Dr Emma Ginns. With a strong desire for organisation and a plan, she embraced the programme's resources, including community calls and masterclasses, which provided the guidance she needed to navigate the world of business.

Throughout their conversation, Mari reflects on the importance of showing up consistently, particularly on social media, and how this commitment has led to a growing patient base for Lamala Health.

She describes Jo as a "bird launcher," crediting her support and mentorship for helping her and Emma build a thriving online clinic and regain their confidence in this new venture.

This episode is an inspiring reminder of the power of community, structure, and the entrepreneurial spirit, particularly for healthcare professionals considering a leap into the business world.

Key Topics Covered: - Mari's transition from redundancy to entrepreneurship - The role of structure in navigating business challenges - Importance of consistency in marketing and social media - Building an online clinic and attracting patients - The value of community support in entrepreneurship - Insights on finding the right business mentor

To connect with Mari and learn more about Lamala Health: - Website: https://www.lemalahealth.co.uk/

To find out and connect with Jo: - https://www.jowatkins.com/

Download free Stethoscope to Start up here

https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freemembership

Connect with Liu Batchelor here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/liubatchelor?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios