In this episode of Andy Thomas Life Stories, Andy is joinedby Professor Lennard Funk, internationally recognised shoulder surgeon. Lenshares his remarkable journey from South Africa to the UK, his unconventionalpath into medicine, and the experiences that shaped his career in orthopaedicsand sports surgery. Together they discuss the evolution of shoulder care, MDTworking, private vs NHS practice, building educational platforms, and howclinicians can navigate career transitions, balance, and personal growth. Athoughtful and insightful conversation for anyone in healthcare, sport, orleadership. Don’t forget to Pre-order my Book “Real Growth”: https://share.hsforms.com/12pR2Pbu-Q2SFlo2N80969g5bpdi
--------
58:14
--------
58:14
Life Stories | Ep. 227 | Dave Burliston
To pre-order Andy Thomas Book RealGrowth follow this link: https://share.hsforms.com/12pR2Pbu-Q2SFlo2N80969g5bpdi🎙 From Physio to Nike:The Journey of Dave Burliston In this episode, Andy Thomas chats with Dave Burliston, aphysiotherapist who’s worked with global brands like Nike, Tiffany & Co.,and Barbour — and supported athletes from grassroots to elite level. Dave shares his fascinating journey from the NHS to theLondon 2012 Olympics, exploring how physiotherapy, psychology, and wellbeingconnect in both sport and business. He also reveals what it’s like workinginside Nike’s world of performance and innovation, and why human connectionstill matters in a high-tech world. 💡 Topics include: Life as a physio in sport and corporate wellbeing Lessons from working with Nike athletes Communication, mindset, and resilience in healthcare The future of physiotherapy and AI An inspiring, down-to-earth conversation for anyonepassionate about health, performance, and purpose. #Physiotherapy #Nike #Podcast #Wellbeing #SportsScience#Health #Leadership #AndyThomasPodcast #DaveBurliston
--------
1:02:39
--------
1:02:39
Life Stories | Ep.226 | Alastair Oxberry
From Student Struggles to Clinical Success | Alastair Oxberry on Building a Modern Podiatry Powerhouse🎧 “From Struggles to Success” – The Inspiring Story of Alastair OxberryAt 18, Alastair Oxberry didn’t even know what podiatry was. Today, he leads one of the UK’s most advanced foot and ankle clinics, combining MSK podiatry, ultrasound diagnostics, and clinical innovation under one roof.In this powerful conversation, Andy Thomas dives deep into Alastair’s life story — from missing out on physiotherapy school to building a thriving 22-person clinic driven by clinical excellence, patient care, and passion for education.💡 Watch to discover:How Alastair turned early setbacks into motivation for successThe creation of his “Foot & Gait Bible” – redefining clinical standardsThe rise of ultrasound in podiatry and MSK medicineWhy apprenticeships could save the future of allied health professionsBalancing growth, leadership, and staying hands-on with patients👉 Whether you’re a clinician, healthcare entrepreneur, or simply love hearing real stories of perseverance and purpose — this episode will leave you inspired.🔔 Subscribe to Andy Thomas Life Stories for more raw, honest conversations with the people transforming healthcare and beyond.#AndyThomas #LifeStories #AlastairOxberry #Podiatry #Physiotherapy #HealthcarePodcast #MSK #Ultrasound #ClinicalExcellence #Entrepreneurship #Inspiration #MedicalPodcast #Leadership #FootAndAnkle #Apprenticeships #HealthcareInnovation #BusinessGrowth
--------
52:30
--------
52:30
Andy Thomas Life Stories Podcast Ep.225 | Paul Houghoughi
In this episode, Andy sits down with Paul Houghoughi, better known as The Climbing Physio — a former sponsored climber turned elite sports physiotherapist who’s worked with Olympic athletes, Team GB, and some of the world’s top climbers.From his humble beginnings in North Wales to the bright lights of the Olympic stage, Paul shares how curiosity, connection, and courage shaped his career. He opens up about the moment that changed everything — hearing the words “Busy is the new stupid” — and how that mantra led him to create a simpler, more meaningful life and business.Expect stories about:🧗♂️ Life behind the scenes at the Olympics💬 Building trust and communication as a clinician💡 The power of slowing down to find focus🔥 Lessons from climbing, leadership, and listeningIf you’ve ever felt stuck on the hamster wheel of “busy,” this conversation will make you stop and think.👉 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations with people redefining success, purpose, and passion.#AndyThomas #LifeStoriesPodcast #ClimbingPhysio #Physiotherapy #Olympics #Performance #Wellbeing
--------
1:03:01
--------
1:03:01
Life Stories | Ep. 224 | Dave Baker
In this episode, Andy talks with Dave Baker, Owner andClinical Director at Complete Physio, about his remarkable journey from accountancy to physiotherapy and how that unique background helped build one of the UK’s leading private physio practices. Dave shares how his passion for helping people, his love ofnumbers, and his drive for innovation led him to champion ultrasound technology and non-medical prescribing within physiotherapy. He discusses the importance of combining clinical skill with business sense, embracing tech in healthcare, and keeping the patient at the centre of everything. Whether you’re a physio, healthcare professional, or simplylove stories of career transformation and purpose, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger about what’s possible.
I have come across many impressive and inspirational people in my time in medical technology education and sales. I have always had the goal to run an interview series with these people, to find out more about them personally and what led them to the career they ended up in. I am genuinely looking forward to each of these! I hope you find it interesting too.
Ireland