The New Grad Physio Podcast

Episodes

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  Getting Paid What You Deserve As A New Grad 13.08.2026 20m

  If you don't understand your value, someone else will decide it for you.Accepting a job is not just agreeing your salary.You need to understand what the job entails...The specific roles and responsibilities...The level of support you will get in the the role and what that looks like...CPD opportunities and allowances.Basically all the career stuff University did not teach you!Learn why all this stuff is so important in this week's podcast episode!Enjoy the show.Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. If you're wondering whether your pay, responsibilities or role are aligned with the value you're bringing to the role reach out. Sometimes an outside perspective can help you see things more clearly.Reach out to me via email (andy@newgradphysio.com) or send me a DM on Instagram here. As soon as I see your message I'll get right back to you.
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  Chase Your Dream Job Now (Don't Wait) 06.08.2026 21m

  Turning down a job, one that I considered to be my dream physio job was not easy...But the right decision (I think!).And it makes no sense!Why would you spend years working towards a career goal, only to walk away when the opportunity finally arrives?In this podcast episode I explain why I turned down my dream job...Explain how your goals can (and will) change over time...And why timing is just as important as ambition.More importantly, I tell a couple of different stories to explain why you, as a new grad physio should be bold in chasing opportunities early in your career...Otherwise you might miss the boat...And never achieve your career ambitions!So whether your ambition is to work in elite sport, climb the NHS ladder or build your own private practice, this episode will challenge the way you think about career progression...And may even change the decisions you make right now!!!Enjoy the show! Andy Barker  The New Grad Physio Mentor PS. Want to learn how to network, create opportunities and build relationships with employers...So you don't just blend into the crowd...And learn how to make yourself the front-runner for your own dream new grad role...Even if you have no experience or connections in the industry?See how the 'Foot In The Door' programme can help you.
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  Opening (Not Closing) Doors To Your Next Job 30.07.2026 18m

  Every job application is either opening doors......or closing them (often without you even realising).Let's make sure your next one opens one.Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. To get a job you first need someone to say..."We'd like to interview you."Because no interview = no job. That's exactly what the 'Foot In The Door' programme helps you overcome.Inside, the programme I show you the exact process I've taught hundreds of therapists to help them create opportunities, build relationships with employers and stop blending into the crowd.Check out some of the case studies here.If you're tired of sending applications into a black hole...This programme is for you!
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  Tackling Imposter Syndrome - Not Just A New Grad Problem 23.07.2026 15m

  Every new grad physio has asked themselves the same question..."Am I actually good enough to be doing this?"In this week's podcast episode, I discuss why these feelings of self-doubt happen...And why what you're experiencing might not actually be imposter syndrome at all!In the pod I tell a story of a recent experience of my own where I felt like an imposter (despite being 11 years qualified at the time) and how I quickly rectified this.If you've ever questioned yourself, felt nervous before an assessment, or wondered whether you really belong in the profession, this episode is for you.Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. Ready to build your confidence faster? Join the New Grad Physio community for practical mentoring, real-world case studies and CPD designed specifically for new grad physio's.Find out more here.
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  The Best Subjective Assessment Question You Must Ask Every Patient 16.07.2026 22m

  For years I thought my subjective assessment was great, until I realised it wasn't.This realisation came when I moved out of full-time sport and started doing more work in private practice.The questions I was asking as part of my subjective assessment were basic.They were basically the questions out of the textbook...The subjective assessment questions were those same questions you probably ask...The same ones we were both taught to ask at Uni and on placements.But they didn't give me the answers I needed.The answers I need to make sense of my patient..And specifically, the patients wants, needs and perceptions.I learnt this the hard way...And I'd advise you not to make the same mistakes!Learn how to deliver a better subjective assessment in this week's podcast episode!Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. Want some help to improve your subjective assessment even more?Head here to see how we could help!
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  Competence Before Confidence 09.07.2026 11m

  Confidence isn't something you're given.It's something you earn.As a new grad physio building confidence is not as easy as just doing the reps, getting the experience, seeing more patients.In this episode you'll discover what you really need to do to build your confidence as a new grad...And get consistent positive patients results that you and your patients deserve!Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. Want practical guidance to helps you feel more confident with real patients, assessments and rehab planning? Head here and see how we can help.
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  The Advice That Changed My Physio Career 02.07.2026 22m

  When I started my first job in pro sport, straight out of Uni, I thought the quickest way to become a great physio was to copy the people around me.Then my mentor gave me one piece of advice that completely changed the way I approached my career.In this episode, I share how this advice helped me stop comparing myself to more experienced clinicians, overcome imposter syndrome, and focus on making small, consistent improvements... Advice that helped me achieve my dream job just 15 months after graduating. I'll also share some more advice I received, plus my own advice for you as a new grad physio to help you accelerate your development faster than you ever thought possible!Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. If you feel that having someone to mentor your progress and guide your career will help you make progress as a new grad physio...To improve your clinical skills and to help you start making moves up the career ladder...Then head here to see if the New Grad Physio Community could help!
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  Why Many 'Non-Physio's' Are Better Than Actual Physio's 25.06.2026 16m

  Some of the best therapists I have worked with, don't have a physio degree!That includes sports therapists, sports rehabbers and soft tissue therapists.Many physio's put themselves (and the physio profession) on some sort of pedestal...Because it is more 'recognised' 'regulated' and largely because it has been around longer.But in doing so, I think we miss a trick.So many other professionals do a much better job than us as physio's to help their patients...And we all can (if we open our eyes and ears) learn so much from these other professionals...To become better physio's ourselves.Learn more in this weeks new podcast episode.Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio Podcast
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  Why "Hardworking" Won't Get You Hired 18.06.2026 26m

  Are you sending job applications, updating your LinkedIn profile, and trying to network...But getting nowhere?You're not alone.Many new grad physio's make the same mistake.Being "hardworking," "passionate," and being "keen to learn" are great qualities to have.The problem is...They're also exactly the attributes that every other applicant is saying they have!In this episode you'' discover why being qualified isn't enough anymore...And what you need to do differently to stand out in today's competitive job market. You'll learn the difference between making claims and providing evidence... What employers are really looking for...And why effective networking has less to do with confidence and more to do with communication.Whether you're looking for your first physio role, preparing for your next career move, or trying to network better, this episode is for you!Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio PodcastPS. In the episode I mentioned my 'foot in the door' programme.Want to learn more?Just fill in the application form and myself or one of the new grad team will get right back to you, to let you know if you would be suitable for the programme.Head here.
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  New Grad Job Application Blueprint 11.06.2026 20m

  A job gets advertised...You apply...Then hear nothing back.The process repeats.Apply. Nothing. Reply. Nothing.Strategy one is to keep doing the same.Strategy two is to do something different.If strategy one is your current strategy, and you have yet to secure a job...I'd consider strategy two!Listen to this weeks podcast episode to find out more about what you need to do differently to stand out from the crowd... And to get success with your next job application!Enjoy the show.Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. In the podcast I mentioned a free career webinar I'm holding.You can get access here.Missed it?Reach out to me here on Instagram or LinkedIn.Just send me a message with the word 'JOB' and I'll get right back to you with some help!
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  Rehab F$$K Ups - Part Two 04.06.2026 10m

  Your patient is pain-free...Tests strong on the bed...And can hop and do all the other functional tests...So why do they break down 15 minutes into their first run?In my latest podcast episode, we explore one of the most common mistakes new graduate physio's make during end-stage rehab.You'll learn why hop tests and gym-based progressions don't automatically prepare patients for the demands of running and sport...And why structured exposure to load, speed, impact, fatigue, and sport-specific demands is essential for successful return-to-higher-level activity.If you've ever wondered why patients flare up despite "passing" rehab, this episode will help you rethink your approach and build more effective return-to-running and return-to-sport rehab plans.Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. Rehab planning was not taught well at physio school.Hence why so many new grads struggle to do it!Want to learn how to properly plan and prescribe a rehab plan, for any injury, from start to finish, without the fear that patient symptoms will comeback?Then head here to find out how!
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  Rehab F$$K Ups - Part 1 28.05.2026 10m

  When rehab goes wrong...It usually happens at two specific points in the rehab process.The most common is when patients (and athletes) progress to higher level activities like running, the gym, or sport.The other?Most physio’s miss this completely, and in many cases, this error actually causes many of the higher level rehab flare ups you see when patients progress to those higher level activities.Want to know what it is?Listen to this week’s podcast to find out.It’s probably not what you think it is!PS. Rehab planning and prescription is one key aspect of physio that is not taught well at physio school.I know this because it’s one of the main problems new grads have when they first come to work with me.But the good thing, it’s an easy fix.Want to learn how to properly plan and prescribe a rehab plan, for any injury, from start to finish, without the fear that patient symptoms will comeback?Then head here to find out how!
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  Finding Your Physio Superpower 28.05.2026 13m

  It's easy focus on where you went wrong...What you are not very good at.The brain is hardwired to do this.And whilst you do need to improve your areas of weakness...It's important you don't forget what you are good at!Doubling down on your strengths is a quick-fire way to get more consistent positive patient improvements...And to fast-track your career!Learn more in this week's podcast episode!Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. Identifying your superpowers is a key part of being able to stand out from the crowd in an overcrowded job market.Employers have never had it so easy, given so many therapists are applying for any role they advertise.As a result, they want more.They are looking for someone different.Someone that stands out from the crowd.Not sure how to do this?⁠My free job webinar will help!⁠Watch it here right now.
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  Is It a Job Problem or a You Problem? 14.05.2026 10m

  Graduation season is here, and thousands of new grad physio's are entering one of the most competitive job markets in years.Yes, jobs are limited. But new roles are still being advertised.Sports like football and rugby are coming to the end of their seasons and looking to recruit and private clinics gear up for a busy summer ahead.The real challenge? Standing out from the crowd.Don't make mistake everyone else does by saying things like I'm...“A great team player” and a “strong communicator.”Everyone says this.And if everyone is saying this, how will this help you stand out?It won't, in fact...It does the opposite. It helps you blend in...Exactly the last thing you want to do!Listen to this week's podcast episode to learn what you can do differently to secure your first physio role.Because there are jobs out there. The question is...Why are other people getting hired and not you?Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio PodcastPS. So is it a job problem or a you problem?Find out what to do differently in my free career webinar right here.
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  Why the Shoulder Feels So Hard (And How to Simplify It) 07.05.2026 18m

  Struggling to make sense of the shoulder as a new grad physio? You’re not alone!This episode is here to clear the fog.We unpack why the shoulder feels so confusing early in your career. Discover the three biggest challenges holding new grads back when it comes to making sense of the shoulder...And more importantly, we give you simple, practical strategies to cut through the noise...Build confidence in your clinical reasoning and... And start managing shoulder cases with clarity.If you’ve ever second-guessed your assessment or felt stuck on what to do next with a shoulder patient… This podcast is for you!Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. Want to know more about how the New Grad Physio Membership can fast-track your growth with structured guidance, real-world frameworks, and ongoing support...So you can make sense of the shoulder (and all other injuries), even as a young and inexperienced physio?Then head here to find out more.
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  Progress = Psychology + Proof + Plan 30.04.2026 20m

  How you think...Is how you feel...Which influences how you act.This is the key concept around CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy), a psychological tool used to change people's behaviour in a positive way.You can use this very concept to change the way you think (and feel) about yourself, your ability as a new grad physio...And use it to your advantage to start making career tracks!Listen to this week's podcast episode to find out more!!!Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. If you feel like the World is against you...And you are never going to get the job of your dreams...Then I'll be honest, you probably won't.You need to believe in yourself first...And then you need to know how to open doors, how to showcase your skills and how to stand out from the crowd.I know this is easier said than done, so this is why I have opened up this career training webinar for free.Check it out now to give yourself the best possible career start as a new grad physio (all the concepts also apply if you are still studying - this is the best time to start by the way).Watch it right now, for free, right here.
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  Practical Tips To Overcome Imposter Syndrome 23.04.2026 21m

  Feeling like an imposter is not great, right?All you want to do is do the best job you can for your patient...But it seems, no matter how hard you try, those feelings of overwhelm, uncertainty and worry, take over...And they affect your ability to be the best physio you can be.But all is not lost.There are practical things you can do (and these are super easy) to squash those feelings of imposter syndrome.Find out what they are in this week's podcast episode!Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. I was fortunate to have great mentorship when I first started out, that helped me so much.But I appreciate most new grads are not in an environment like I was and that you don't get that kind if support.It's part of the reason I set up the new grad physio community to give new grads you like, the support, mentorship and guidance you need.Want to learn more and see how the new grad physio community could help you?Then head here to find out more...newgradphysio.com
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  The Hidden New Grad Physio Tax 16.04.2026 20m

  They say there are only two things guaranteed in life...Death and taxes.And their probably not too far wrong!In this week's podcast episode I discuss 3 physio 'taxes' which are stopping so many new grads from making progress...Both clinically and professionally.These hidden 'taxes' are not financial like most taxes, but must be 'paid' if you want to start to get more consistent positive patient results...And if you want to start climbing the career ladder.Listen to find out more!!!Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. If you’re navigating life as a new grad physio right now and feel like you need support, structure, and clarity on what to focus on, come join us inside the New Grad Physio Community.I built the new grad physio community to mentor new grad physio's just like you...To give you the skills and support you need to thrive, and not just survive, as a new grad physio.Interested to learn more?Take a look at now the new grad physio community could help you right here.
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  Overwhelmed to Effective: Rehab Planning for Low Back Pain 09.04.2026 17m

  If you struggle planning and prescribing rehab for patients with low back pain then this week's podcast is for you!Learn to look at low back pain patient's differently...Discover how to group patient's to direct rehab...Pick up tips to stop overcomplicating rehab...To help you get your patient's progressing, and back doing the things they enjoy the most, smoothly, and as quickly as possible.Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. Want some further help with your low back pain assessments, treatments and rehab?I've got a whole module dedicated to the lower back.Find out how to get access to it here.
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  Confidence Through Simplicity 02.04.2026 18m

  As a new grad physios you know doubt feel the pressure to know everything, test everything, and explain everything to your patient.But what if this is exactly what’s holding you back?In this week's episode, we break down one of the most important lessons in clinical practice... Keep. It. Simple. Stupid. Using my “duck” analogy, we explore why overcomplicating diagnoses kills confidence, slows decision-making, and more importantly, does little to actually help your patients.You’ll learn how to trust patterns, simplify your assessments, and focus on what really matters...Getting more consistent, positive patient results.If you’ve ever second-guessed an obvious presentation or felt like you’re overthinking every patient this weeks episode is for you.Enjoy the show!Andy BarkerThe New Grad Physio MentorPS. Want some more help to simplify your patient assessments, treatments and rehab...Then head here to find out more.