To the next generation of podiatrists

30 Sep To the next generation of podiatrists

To the next generation of podiatrists 🌿

I was stoked to be asked to share my Podiatry journey recenlty with students at QUT. I really wanted the students to hear about my journey – how my practice has developed over time and why I believe so strongly in positively promoting our profession through blogging, social media, and community connection.

I still remember my very first Podiatry session on campus at Thurgoona, Charles Sturt University. The native trees, the bark chips underfoot, and that feeling in my stomach – part farm-girl nerves, part excitement. From day one I had a deep respect for podiatry and a curiosity I knew would never fade.

I quickly realised I would never fully understand everything about the foot and ankle but I was okay with that. What matters is how podiatry can impact people’s lives, how it can unlock them to move forward, and how no two podiatrists need to be the same. This is a creative profession, and individualism is part of our strength.

I’m happiest halfway through taking a patient history, weaving assessment data with the story a patient shares. I love enucleating a stubborn corn, providing critical skin and nail care, or performing nail surgery; because each moment is both science and craft. I thrive on trialling new treatment methods, collaborating with colleagues, and embracing the fact that it’s okay not to know all the answers. What matters is confidence in your ability to connect, communicate, and work it out together with your patient. I can confidently say I do not know it all but that I can always work out the answer somehow – through my connections, talking to people and thinking and interpreting the data or information received. 

That’s why I see podiatry as creative, biopsychosocial, and people-centred. Research should guide us, but it shouldn’t limit us. Every patient is different and so is every podiatrist. Have fun with it, learn from every colleague you meet, and create your own version of best practice rooted in what’s best for the patient.

🌻 After 12 years, here are my 5 biggest tips for a successful podiatry career:

1. Value what we do. Reframe “general” care as critical care. What you do truly matters – educate patients as you go.
2. Educate the community. Get excited when people don’t know what we do (not frustrated!) every moment is a chance to raise awareness.
3. Listen to your patients. The best podiatrists are excellent communicators. Invest in your communication skills. I was once told “listen to your patients – they have all the answers,” and think this couldn’t be truer today.
4. Find your community. Build networks of podiatrists you can call on – at work, online, or in small groups. Look for supportive, patient and practitioner centred workplaces to join in early and late career – you are never too old or “experienced” to have a tribe and people to talk to.
5. See feedback as growth. There’s no failure, only feedback. Keep learning and your career will flourish. I know it’s hard getting feedback from patients sometimes but it’s the best way to learn – be open, be curious and always strive to do your best and keep learning.

🌿 I would like to extend my thanks to all of the clients I’ve seen across my career. You’ve taught me more than any textbook or degree ever could. It has been my life’s privilege to walk alongside you and to treat you. I will never take treating a patient for granted. Without you I wouldn’t have a career. 

Always respect this profession and speak of it kindly. It’s a small profession, but a truly magic one. How lucky are we. Welcome to the pod world! 🌻

P.S. I’m wearing my Archie’s thongs in this photo and while writing this – because being flexible and patient-centred with footwear is so important. Don’t forget, footwear isn’t just practical; it’s also an identity and a fashion piece for people. The right shoe for the right occasion 😉

If you are a student, an early career Podiatrist, or perhaps you are an experienced Podiatrist looking to connect. Please reach out to me as I’d love to hear your story.

Laura

You can continue to follow my journey and connect with me here –
– instagram
– linked in