081 - Jonathan Small Don't Live In The Land of Low Fees
Release Date: 05/13/2020
379 - The Loneliness of Leadership: Why Business Owners Need Support
Podiatry Legends Podcast
In this solo episode of the Podiatry Legends Podcast, I open up about the often unspoken reality of running a podiatry business: the loneliness of leadership. While you may be surrounded by patients and staff daily, the emotional weight of being the decision-maker, problem-solver, and motivator can feel isolating. I share personal experiences of burnout and the invisible pressure to always appear composed, even when doubts creep in. But there’s a way through it, and it starts with connection. I explore how support networks, whether through mentors, mastermind groups, or peer circles,...
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378 - Neuropathy, Cancer and A Career Pivot: The Dana Cardinas Story
Podiatry Legends Podcast
Dana Cardinas loved podiatry, and she was damn good at it. But a surprise diagnosis of idiopathic ulnar neuropathy, followed by a shocking discovery of Stage 3C colon cancer, forced her to step away from the profession she adored. In this episode, Dana opens up about how she handled early retirement, battled cancer, and found purpose again through helping others and launching a new business, . From laughing down clinic hallways to launching a neuropathy support group that’s changing lives in , Dana proves that purpose doesn't end with a job title. If you’re a podiatrist, business...
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377 - 33 Years in Podiatry and Loving it with Dr Patrick DeHeer, DPM.
Podiatry Legends Podcast
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Patrick DeHeer, who shares his incredible 33-year journey in podiatry, from treating NBA players with the Indiana Pacers to performing life-changing surgeries in Haiti and the Philippines. We talk about innovation in podiatry, global medical missions, and why teaching the next generation keeps him inspired. We also explore leadership, international outreach, his invention of the Aquinas Brace, and why he’s more excited than ever to lead the profession forward. If you’re a podiatrist or healthcare professional looking for a dose of purpose, passion,...
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376 - The LET THEM Theory Book Debate
Podiatry Legends Podcast
IS THE LET THEM THEORY RIGHT FOR YOU? In this episode of the Podiatry Legends Podcast, I host an open debate about The LET THEM Theory by Mel Robbins. I’m joined by Carly O’Donoghue, who loves the book, and Elan Silver, who has a few issues with it. Together, we unpack the real-world relevance of this viral mindset theory for podiatrists and business owners alike. What is the LET THEM Theory? At its core, Robbins encourages us to stop trying to control other people’s reactions. Whether it's a patient, staff member, or family member—"let them" react how they want. It’s not your...
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375 - Shockwave Therapy Secrets: What Most Podiatrists Are Missing with James Ferrie
Podiatry Legends Podcast
I’m joined once again by musculoskeletal podiatrist James Ferrie to talk all things shockwave therapy. James delves into what he’s learned over 14 years of clinical experience, including the crucial role of timing, the difference between radial and focused shockwave, and how to maximise outcomes. If you’ve got a shockwave device gathering dust or you’re using it the same way on every patient, this episode is for you. This is one of those episodes you’ll want to listen to more than once. “The same intervention can have a completely different outcome depending on the timing.”...
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374 - Property Investment, Boutique Wine & Calculated Risk-Taking with Mark McGill
Podiatry Legends Podcast
In this week’s episode of the Podiatry Legends Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Mark McGill, an award-winning real estate agent, property investor, boutique winemaker, Airbnb owner and calculated risk-taker. Mark’s story is inspiring because it’s real. He’s not just doing one thing; he’s doing business and life on his terms. For podiatrists and entrepreneurs alike who want more freedom, impact, and joy from their work, there’s a lot to learn here. “Love the one you’re with; that goes for staff and clients.” - Mark McGill. If you like great...
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373 - Podiatry Student Recruitment Research and Unity in the Profession
Podiatry Legends Podcast
Regardless of the country you live in we all face the same inssues. What does the future of podiatry look like? In this episode, I speak with three influential podiatrists from the US, Dr Ben Pearl, Dr Patrick Deheer and Dr Patrick Agnew, about the profession’s past, its current challenges, and how we can inspire more students to choose podiatry as a career. We delve into marketing strategies tailored towards potential students, the importance of ongoing research, and how to silence internal negativity and foster a more unified profession. 7 Key Takeaways Podiatry is facing...
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372 - Unlocking the Power of the Neurosensory Foot with Dr Emily Splichal
Podiatry Legends Podcast
In this episode of the Podiatry Legends Podcast, I sit down with Dr Emily Splichal to explore the neurosensory foot and how it’s revolutionising podiatric care. Emily shares her incredible transition from traditional surgery to functional, sensory-based podiatry, revealing powerful insights about the role of nerve stimulation, fascia, and patient empowerment. Whether you're a seasoned podiatrist or just curious about the future of foot health, this is one conversation you don't want to miss. "You don’t need to be barefoot all the time. You just need to wake up your feet every day."...
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371 - Biomechanics and the Future of Podiatry: Insights from Abid Ali
Podiatry Legends Podcast
In this episode of the Podiatry Legends Podcast, I chat with Abid Ali, a musculoskeletal podiatrist from Coventry, UK, about his journey from the safety and predictability of the NHS to the unpredictability of private practice. Abid is the owner of the and also runs . Takeaway Points: Embrace biomechanics for better patient outcomes and a holistic approach. Mentorship is crucial for professional growth and avoiding common pitfalls. A successful practice depends on combining clinical skills with sound business knowledge. Innovation and keeping up with new treatment...
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370 - Managing Stress as a Podiatry Business Owner The Key to Avoiding Burnout
Podiatry Legends Podcast
In this episode of the Podiatry Legends Podcast, Tyson Franklin dives deep into the crucial topic of managing stress as a podiatry business owner. As many podiatrists juggle patient care with the demands of running a practice, stress and burnout can quickly take a toll on both health and business performance. Tyson shares his personal experience and offers practical strategies to avoid burnout, including time management tips, the importance of work-life balance, and how to build a strong, supportive team. Whether you're struggling to manage your workload or simply looking for ways to...
info_outlineMy guest Jonathan Small is a UK based podiatrist, and he believes that you should be charging what you're worth, and nothing less. You should also stay away from the land of low fees because it is a dangerous place and nothing good ever comes from it.
If you want to have a financially viable podiatry business, you've got to set your fees correctly. You should never set your prices based on what your competitors are charging.
Jonathan has appeared three times on the Podiatry Legends Podcast. His first appearance was on Ep 006: Work Smart, Not Harder and then on Ep 044: Podiatry Success Is A Mindset.
On this episode we discuss:
- Why podiatrists don't value the service they provide.
- Fee mindset
- When you charge higher fees, you also have to start delivering on service
- COVID-19 is showing why having low fees is not a good business move and is damaging long-term.
- Cashed up podiatrists who charged correctly and now have a cash reserve will ride out this pandemic comfortably.
- When you charge more, you can provide better services, do more CPD, etc.
- Higher fees are a reflection of the value of the education you provide to your patients - What is the value of the solution to the patient?
- The public perception of professionals that charge higher fees (Surgeons, Lawyers...why not Podiatrists)
"My approach is that if a patient comes to me with a foot problem that I can fix it as well as a surgeon can fix why should I charge any different to that surgeon?"
Reboot Your Podiatry Business
NOW is the perfect opportunity to reboot your podiatry business because patients are taking their health far more serious since COVID-19.
So if you think outside the box, there are real opportunities to be had.
Being Busy Is Not A Sign of Success
If you want a successful business, you need to free up time from your diary so you can work on the business.
Therefore you need to get rid of some patients by increasing your fees or take on another employee to see those patients for you, so you have time to work on the business.
Saying you do not have time is not an excuse, especially now.
Marketing
You have to get your marketing systems set and working correctly and to do this right it takes time, which is why you need to free up the time you're spending with patients.
If you don't like working on the business and working on your marketing that fine, you just need to get someone who does like it, or you should work for someone else. Business is not for everyone.
You need to work:
- On the business
- In the business
- And away from the business (time off)
"When you have a good marketing strategy, you create a steady stream of new patients, and this is what makes your business safe and successful".
Final Tip
Make a decision not to live the land of lower fees. Decide that you're going to be the Ferrari of foot care. You will lose patients, but if you have a good marketing strategy, you will quickly fill that void.
If you have any questions about this episode, please send me an email at , or you can connect with Jonathan at Health First Foot & Gait Clinic.
You can also connect with Jonathan on Instagram @footmanj12.
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One-On-One Coaching & Mentoring
If your podiatry business needs help to develop marketing strategies or business systems, the most efficient way to do this is with one-on-one coaching and mentoring. Please email me at and let's see where I can you.
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If you like marketing and small business, please take a look at my other podcast; It's No Secret with Dr T., and you may also enjoy Ep 205: Fans First Experience with Jesse Cole