The Start Up Support Surgery

MonkeyPants Productions
  • 5.0 (1)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Introducing the Start Up Support Surgery hosted by Dr Jo Watkins —a podcast tailored for medics and healthcare heroes ready to blend their medical expertise with entrepreneurship. Dive into a world where you juggle your medical calling with building a business or side hustle, carving out flexibility amidst the chaos of work and family life. Discover a new realm of aiding others beyond the NHS's constraints. Starting a venture isn't a walk in the park—it's a wild ride of emotions and learning curves. With two decades of balancing medicine and business as a GP, I'm thrilled to share my experiences, insights, and conversations with experts and fellow healthcare professionals. Join me on this journey of growth, exploration, and empowerment—because your entrepreneurial story starts here.

  1. Episode #57 - Entrepreneurship Can Be Daunting, But So Rewarding - with Helen Evans Howells

    1 DAY AGO

    Episode #57 - Entrepreneurship Can Be Daunting, But So Rewarding - with Helen Evans Howells

    In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo is joined by the remarkable Dr. Helen Evans Howells, founder of the Helen Allergy Clinic in the New Forest. Together, they dive deep into the world of allergies, but the conversation quickly evolves into a candid discussion about the realities of running a business while juggling family life. Helen shares her unique journey, from her early days teaching in Uganda to navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, all while raising five children and working alongside her husband.     Helen opens up about the challenges of balancing her professional ambitions with the demands of family, shedding light on the pressures that many healthcare professionals face. She discusses the importance of finding your niche and staying true to your passion, as well as the necessity of resilience in the face of adversity. As she reflects on her own experiences, Helen emphasizes the value of community and support in the entrepreneurial journey, particularly for those in the medical field.     This episode is a heartfelt reminder that while the path to entrepreneurship can be daunting, it is also filled with rewarding moments and opportunities for growth. Whether you're a medic contemplating a transition into business or simply looking for inspiration, Helen's story offers valuable insights and encouragement.     Key Topics Covered   - Helen's journey from medicine to entrepreneurship   - The challenges of balancing work and family life   - The importance of finding your niche in business   - Resilience in the face of setbacks   - Navigating the complexities of running a private clinic   - Building a supportive community for healthcare professionals   - Strategies for effective marketing in the medical field     Key Takeaways   1. Embrace Change and Take Risks   2. Find Your Niche and Stay True to Your Passion   3. Build a Supportive Community   4. Balance Work and Family Life   5. Be Resilient in the Face of Challenges     To find out and connect with Jo:  https://www.jowatkins.com/  Don't forget to grab your free PDF guide, From Stethoscope to Startup, available in the show notes. This essential resource is packed with practical advice to help you kickstart your entrepreneurial journey.  https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freestarterkitpodcast          To connect with Helen:     Website: https://www.helenallergyclinic.com/          Resources:      Anaphylaxis UK: https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/

    47 min
  2. Episode #55 - Leaving Teaching To Help Clients Leverage Group Programs - with Gemma Gilbert

    27 APR

    Episode #55 - Leaving Teaching To Help Clients Leverage Group Programs - with Gemma Gilbert

    In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo welcomes the inspiring Gemma Gilbert, a dynamic entrepreneur who transitioned from teaching to coaching, helping clients create leveraged group programs. Gemma shares her personal journey of rebellion against her upbringing in a family of educators and how this shaped her approach to business. She candidly discusses the challenges of balancing career ambitions with family life and the pivotal moments that led her to embrace entrepreneurship.    Throughout the conversation, Gemma emphasizes the importance of finding a mentor, the value of experimenting in business, and the significance of niching down to attract the right clients. She delves into the nuances of running group programs, sharing insights on how to navigate common challenges and avoid the pitfalls of one-on-one burnout. Jo and Gemma discuss the need for resilience in business, especially when faced with unexpected setbacks, and how to maintain a focus on long-term growth while managing day-to-day operations.    This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone considering a transition into entrepreneurship, especially those in the early stages of their journey. Gemma's practical advice and relatable experiences provide a roadmap for aspiring business owners looking to create sustainable and scalable practices.    Key Topics Covered   - Gemma's journey from teacher to entrepreneur  - The importance of finding the right mentor  - Navigating the challenges of group programs  - Understanding the value of niching down  - Experimenting in business for faster growth  - Building resilience in the face of setbacks  - Creating a balance between family life and business     Key Takeaways  1. Invest in Yourself and Find a Mentor  2. Embrace Experimentation for Growth  3. Specialize to Attract Quality Clients  4. Build Resilience Against Setbacks  5. Balance Your Business with Personal Life   To find out and connect with Jo: https://www.jowatkins.com/ From 'Stethoscope to Start up' free PDF giving you the blueprint for getting started as a Medic becoming an entrepreneur. How to find the time, money, people and resources that you need. This will also give you access to a weekly newsletter, offers and inspiration. https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freestarterkitpodcast       To connect with Gemma:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gemmagilbertcoaching/  Website: https://www.gemmagilbert.com/    Resources:  Grab Gemma's free resource on creating scalable group offers to kickstart your journey: https://www.gemmagilbert.com/anti-launch-one-sheet

    40 min
  3. Episode #54 - Private GP and Unashamed Entrepreneur, Helping Other Medical Startups Achieve Success - with Matthew Wickham

    13 APR

    Episode #54 - Private GP and Unashamed Entrepreneur, Helping Other Medical Startups Achieve Success - with Matthew Wickham

    In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo chats with Matthew Wickham, an entrepreneurial ENT surgeon who has successfully navigated the transition from the NHS to building multiple businesses. Matthew shares his unique journey, highlighting how his military upbringing and diverse experiences shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. He candidly discusses the challenges and rewards of running his own private clinic while balancing family life with two young children. Matthew elaborates on his role as a mentor through Doc Support, where he helps fellow medical professionals explore entrepreneurship in healthcare. He emphasizes the importance of networking, adaptability, and the willingness to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone in the medical field considering a leap into entrepreneurship or seeking to enhance their current practice. Key Topics Covered - Matthew's journey from military upbringing to ENT surgeon - The entrepreneurial mindset and its evolution - Balancing family life with multiple businesses - The importance of networking in healthcare entrepreneurship - Embracing failure as a learning opportunity - Insights into running a private clinic and patient care - How to effectively utilize AI and technology in practice Key Takeaways 1. Embrace Your Entrepreneurial Spirit 2. Network Relentlessly 3. Learn to Accept and Learn from Failure 4. Balance Work and Family Life 5. Leverage Technology for Efficiency   To find out and connect with Jo: Business coaching and mentoring for Doctors | Jo-Watkins From 'Stethoscope to Start up' free PDF giving you the blueprint for getting started as a Medic becoming an entrepreneur. How to find the time, money, people and resources that you need. This will also give you access to a weekly newsletter, offers and inspiration. Free Starter Kit: The Digital Doctor Startup   Connect with Matthew and find out more about Doc Support: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-matthew-wickham/ https://www.docsupport.co.uk/

    40 min
  4. Episode #53 - Finding Your Voice, Following the Energy & Why Fun Fuels Success - with Alice Ramsay

    30 MAR

    Episode #53 - Finding Your Voice, Following the Energy & Why Fun Fuels Success - with Alice Ramsay

    In this energising and refreshingly honest conversation, Jo is joined by Alice Ramsay—former international lawyer turned communications strategist and now global speaker on fun and high performance. Alice shares her unconventional journey from law to corporate communications to entrepreneurship, and how curiosity, experimentation, and bravery helped her carve out a completely new path. This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone feeling stuck in their career, questioning their next move, or looking to bring more energy and joy into their work. Key Topics Covered Why your career path doesn't need to make sense "on paper" The power of small experiments instead of big risky leaps How to identify your "zone of genius" by following your energy Transitioning from structured professions (like law or medicine) into something new The importance of networking—and why it's really about giving Why fun isn't frivolous (and how it actually boosts performance) Simple ways to bring more energy and connection into your working day Key Takeaways 1. Follow the Energy 2. Think in Experiments, Not Big Leaps 3. You Don't Have to Start From Scratch 4. Fun is a Performance Tool 5. Networking = Giving 6. You're Allowed to Do Things Differently   Alice can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliceramsay/ https://www.shiningalice.com/   Resources: The DO Lectures - https://thedolectures.com/

    54 min
  5. Episode #52 - Entrepreneurship and Motherhood - with Sophie Griffiths

    16 MAR

    Episode #52 - Entrepreneurship and Motherhood - with Sophie Griffiths

    In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo engages in a candid conversation with Sophie Griffiths, a vibrant entrepreneur whose journey from the corporate world to running her own business is both inspiring and relatable. Sophie shares her experiences navigating the challenges of motherhood, corporate politics, and ultimately, her transition to entrepreneurship after facing redundancy while on maternity leave.    Sophie recounts her corporate career at British Airways, where she thrived in a high-pressure environment but faced a significant confidence crisis upon returning from maternity leave. This pivotal moment led her to explore alternative paths, ultimately discovering her passion for social media and business coaching. She discusses the importance of testing demand before launching a product and the lessons learned from her early missteps in building a membership platform for mothers.    Jo and Sophie dive into the evolution of her business, highlighting the significance of adaptability and understanding client needs. Sophie emphasizes the importance of creating a business that aligns with personal values and family life, sharing her strategies for maintaining balance while growing her entrepreneurial venture. They also discuss the challenges of being a mother and business owner, particularly in a world that often demands constant hustle.    This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of community support in entrepreneurship. Sophie's insights into building a business that prioritizes well-being and financial stability offer valuable guidance for anyone navigating the complexities of work and family life.   Chapters:  - Introduction to Sophie Griffiths  - Corporate Career at British Airways  - The Impact of Maternity Leave and Redundancy  - Discovering a Passion for Social Media  - Lessons from Early Business Ventures  - Evolving Business Models and Client Needs  - Balancing Family Life and Entrepreneurship  - Conclusion and Resources    To find out more and connect with Jo:  https://www.jowatkins.com/    Don't miss the 'Stethoscope to Start up' free PDF, your essential guide to transitioning from medic to entrepreneur. This resource will help you navigate the early stages of your business journey.  https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freestarterkitpodcast    Connect with Sophie:  https://www.instagram.com/sophiegriffithsco/

    41 min
  6. Episode #51 - From a Corporate Window Seat to the Adventure of running your own business - with Lucy-Ann Whelan (Lucy Legal)

    9 MAR

    Episode #51 - From a Corporate Window Seat to the Adventure of running your own business - with Lucy-Ann Whelan (Lucy Legal)

    In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo sits down with Lucy Ann Wheeler, a dynamic lawyer turned entrepreneur, who shares her incredible journey from the corporate world to running her own legal business and template shop. Lucy recounts her adventurous spirit, having completed six marathons in five days across the desert and climbed Kilimanjaro, all before embracing the challenges of motherhood and entrepreneurship.  As Lucy reflects on her transition from a structured legal career to building her own business, she discusses the impact of personal experiences, including the loss of pregnancies and the decision to prioritize family life over a traditional career path. She emphasizes the importance of legal knowledge for medical professionals venturing into entrepreneurship, highlighting the necessity of understanding client data protection and the legal framework surrounding their practices.  Jo and Lucy delve into the realities of balancing family life with running a business, exploring the dynamics of shared parental leave and the adjustments made to support their growing family. Lucy shares her strategies for effective time management, including the significance of setting boundaries and prioritizing tasks to maintain a healthy work-life balance.  This episode is a heartfelt and inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of following one's passion, embracing challenges, and creating a life that aligns with personal values. Whether you're contemplating a leap into entrepreneurship or seeking to navigate the complexities of balancing work and family, Lucy's insights offer valuable guidance and encouragement.    - Introduction to Lucy Ann Wheeler  - Adventures Before Motherhood  - Transitioning from Lawyer to Entrepreneur  - The Importance of Legal Knowledge for Medical Professionals  - Balancing Family Life and Business  - Time Management Strategies  - Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change  - Conclusion and Resources  To find out more and connect with Jo:  https://www.jowatkins.com/    Don't miss the 'Stethoscope to Start up' free PDF, your essential guide to transitioning from medic to entrepreneur. This resource will help you navigate the early stages of your business journey.  https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freestarterkitpodcast  Connect with Lucy:  https://www.lucylegal.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucyannwheeler/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LucyAnnWheeler

    49 min
  7. Episode #50 - Creating A Business That Works With Your Life - with Erin Thomas-Wong

    2 MAR

    Episode #50 - Creating A Business That Works With Your Life - with Erin Thomas-Wong

    In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo chats with Erin Thomas, a life-friendly business mentor and author, who shares her remarkable journey from the fast-paced world of television to building businesses that prioritize personal well-being and family life. Erin opens up about her unexpected transition into entrepreneurship after becoming a mother, recounting the challenges she faced and the lessons learned along the way. Erin discusses the importance of designing a business that fits one's life rather than the other way around. She reflects on her experiences living abroad and how they shaped her understanding of success, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from aligning professional goals with personal values. Jo and Erin dive into the significance of community support for entrepreneurs, particularly for mothers, and how finding your tribe can make all the difference in navigating the ups and downs of business ownership. Throughout the conversation, Erin shares practical insights on maintaining boundaries, managing time effectively, and embracing flexibility in work. She also introduces her new book, "How to Build a Life Friendly Business," which provides a framework for creating a business that enhances one's lifestyle. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to redefine success and build a business that truly supports their life. Chapters:  - Introduction to Erin Thomas - Transitioning from TV to Entrepreneurship - The Importance of Community and Support - Designing a Life-Friendly Business - Embracing Flexibility and Boundaries - Insights from Erin's Book - Conclusion and Resources To find out more and connect with Jo: https://www.jowatkins.com/    Don't miss the 'Stethoscope to Start up' free PDF, your essential guide to transitioning from medic to entrepreneur. This resource will help you navigate the early stages of your business journey. https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freestarterkitpodcast   Connect with Erin: https://www.lifefriendlybusiness.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinthomaswong/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifefriendlybiz/

    58 min
  8. Episode #49 - From Aeronautical Engineer To Empowering Women, with Authenticity and Self-Leadership - with Sarae Pratt

    16 FEB

    Episode #49 - From Aeronautical Engineer To Empowering Women, with Authenticity and Self-Leadership - with Sarae Pratt

    In this episode of The Start Up Support Surgery, Jo welcomes Sarae Pratt, an inspiring coach and consultant with a unique background in aeronautical engineering. Sarae shares her fascinating journey from managing the Eurofighter Typhoon to empowering individuals and businesses, particularly women, to thrive in their professional lives. With a focus on systemic change in the workplace, Sarae discusses the importance of authenticity and self-leadership, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves without the masks society often imposes. Throughout the conversation, Sarae reflects on her transition from engineering to coaching, highlighting her passion for helping others discover their purpose and navigate the complexities of their careers. She emphasizes the need for compassion and self-care, particularly for women who often juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. Jo and Sarae delve into the challenges faced by solopreneurs, discussing time management, procrastination, and the importance of community and connection in the entrepreneurial journey.  This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to cultivate resilience and authenticity in their professional lives, reminding us that self-compassion and community support are vital in overcoming the hurdles of entrepreneurship.  - Introduction to Sarae Pratt   - From Aeronautical Engineering to Coaching   - The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership   - Navigating Challenges as a Solopreneur   - The Role of Community and Connection   - Embracing Self-Leadership and Compassion   - Conclusion and Resources     To find out more and connect with Jo:     https://www.jowatkins.com/   Don't miss the 'Stethoscope to Start up' free PDF, your essential guide to transitioning from medic to entrepreneur. This resource will help you navigate the early stages of your business journey. https://drjowatkins.mykajabi.com/freestarterkitpodcast   Connect with Sarae: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraepratt/ https://saraepratt.com/

    52 min
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About

Introducing the Start Up Support Surgery hosted by Dr Jo Watkins —a podcast tailored for medics and healthcare heroes ready to blend their medical expertise with entrepreneurship. Dive into a world where you juggle your medical calling with building a business or side hustle, carving out flexibility amidst the chaos of work and family life. Discover a new realm of aiding others beyond the NHS's constraints. Starting a venture isn't a walk in the park—it's a wild ride of emotions and learning curves. With two decades of balancing medicine and business as a GP, I'm thrilled to share my experiences, insights, and conversations with experts and fellow healthcare professionals. Join me on this journey of growth, exploration, and empowerment—because your entrepreneurial story starts here.

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