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The STA Clinician Podcast - 'Connecting Clinicians Across Healthcare' - is recorded LIVE every Tuesday at 8pm (UK) on the Sports Therapy Association YouTube channel and Facebook Page, and then uploaded as a podcast to all popular platforms. After 5 years of broadcasting weekly as the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, the name of the podcast has been updated to reflect how our content is of value & interest to all health care professionals, with a major goal being to promote conversations that embrace & nurture multidisciplinary care. Hosted by Matt Phillips (creator of Runchatlive.com), we welcome all health care professionals to join us for the live recording, a chance to network with fellow therapists and discuss topics that together help us all move forward as an industry.
The Sports Therapy Association (STA) is a professional representation for Sports Therapists, Sports Injury Therapists and Soft Tissue Therapists. We have worked passionately to develop a truly independent and ethical association that is committed to raising standards across the industry and progressing opportunities for our valued members.
Episodes

Friday May 09, 2025
Friday May 09, 2025
In the sixth of our 'Reflection Series', host Matt Phillips is joined by Physiotherapist Chareeya Kaewsawang, a.k.a. The Wee Physio, who reflects on Ep.73 'Evidence Informed Pilates’ that was recorded 19th October 2021 with special guest Raphael Bender of Breathe Education and The Pilates Elephants Podcast.
This episode explores traditional misconceptions in Pilates, especially the emphasis on pre-core activation and neutral pelvis, and delves into how modern evidence is shaping a more informed practice. Chareeya shares how these insights have impacted her work as a Pilates instructor and physiotherapist, emphasizing the importance of continually updating practices based on current research.
Perfect for Pilates instructors, physiotherapists, sports therapists, soft tissue therapists, and indeed anyone interested in integrating evidence-based practices while maintaining client satisfaction and improving outcomes.
The episode also gives details on the upcoming 'Hands On Hub & STA Conference' taking place on September 20th & 21st, which promises to be a NEW type of conference that will "shape the future of healthcare education".
Useful Links
- Ep.73 'Evidence Informed Pilates’ with special guest Raphael Bender
- Chareeya Kaewsawang on Instagram @WeePhysio
- Website: NKPhysio.co.uk
Would YOU like to be a 'Reflection' guest on the podcast?
If you would like to come on the show to chat about a past episode of the podcast, contact host Matt Phillips on social media, or email matt@thesta.co.uk. You will l need a pc or laptop (not your phone), with a quality internet connection (ethernet cable plugged directly into modem is best), and obviously webcam and mic.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Friday May 02, 2025
Friday May 02, 2025
In the fifth of our 'Reflection Series', host Matt Phillips is joined Massage & Movement Therapists Stevie Barr of Fit Thru Life and Tristen Attenborough of Move Massage Pro, who together reflect on Ep.74 of The Sports Therapy Association Podcast “Massage 2021 – The Year of Change?”, which was recorded back in October 2021 with special guests Anna Maria Mazzieri and Matt Scarbrook of The Massage Collective.
Together, Tristan, Stevie and Matt reflect on, three years after the original epioode was aired, question such as:
- Has the delivery of sports massage improved in the last few years?
- Are practitioners now more evidence informed?
- Are patient outcomes better as a result?
The conversation that pursues delves deep into exploration of the challenges posed by misinformation in our industry, and the opportunities for professional development. A fascinating listen for soft tissue therapists both experienced and new to the indusry.
Useful Links
- Ep.74 'Massage 2021 - Year of Change?' with special guests The Massage Collective
- Tristen Attenborough Website
- Stevie Barr Website
- Scottish Therapists Facebook Group
Would YOU like to be a 'Reflection' guest on the podcast?
If you would like to come on the show to chat about a past episode of the podcast, contact host Matt Phillips on social media, or email matt@thesta.co.uk. You will l need a pc or laptop (not your phone), with a quality internet connection (ethernet cable plugged directly into modem is best), and obviously webcam and mic.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Friday Apr 25, 2025
Friday Apr 25, 2025
In the fourth of our 'Reflection Series', host Matt Phillips is joined by Daniel Williams, Movement Therapist & DNM/MI educator, who reflects on Ep.64 'Motivational Interviewing For Client Communication’, recorded back in August 2021 with guest Dr Gary Mendoza.
When Dr Gary Mendoza retired from delivering his Motivational Interviewing (MI) & Behaviour Change CPD course in 2022, Daniel Williams had already been working with Dr Mendoza to prepare for taking over delivery of the course, which included studying with the original co-founder of Motivational Interviewing, Dr Stephen Rollnick.
Now in 2025, Daniel Williams delivers the Motivational Interviewing & Behaviour Change course alongside his other passion - 'Dermoneuromodulation' (DNM) - a structured, interactive approach to manual therapy developed by Diane Jacobs, that considers the nervous system of the patient from skin cell to sense of self.
In this podcast episode, Daniel discusses the nuances of MI, including its role in guiding rather than fixing clients, and how it fosters authentic and empathetic engagements. Daniel elaborates on the shift from the "Righting Reflex" to a more collaborative approach, offering practical tips for therapists to improve their interaction skills during therapy sessions.
This episode is ideal for therapists seeking to refine their communication techniques, emphasizing listening, understandinging client motivations, and the profound effect these skills have on therapy outcomes.
Useful Links
- Ep.64 'Motivational Interviewing For Client Communication’ with guest Dr Gary Mendoza
- Daniel Williams Website: https://www.themvmnttherapist.co.uk/
- Daniel Williams On Instagram: @daniel.williams.mvmnt
Would YOU like to be a 'Reflection' guest on the podcast?
If you would like to come on the show to chat about a past episode of the podcast, contact host Matt Phillips on social media, or email matt@thesta.co.uk. You will l need a pc or laptop (not your phone), with a quality internet connection (ethernet cable plugged directly into modem is best), and obviously webcam and mic.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
In the third of our 'Reflection Series', host Matt Phillips is joined by Sarah Jones & Sal Martin of The ST School and Hands On Hub, who reflect on Ep.214 ‘What Values Make A Professional Therapist?' recorded back in September 2024 with guest Martin Christensen.
Martin Christensen, a Norwegian physiotherapist best known for his podcast "Friday Physio Confessions", focuses on the human aspect of healthcare. He emphasizes the importance of building a genuine relationship between patients & healthcare providers, acknowledging that mistakes are a natural part of the human experience. In Ep.214 of the Sports Therapy Association podcast, recorded in September 2024, Martin spoke about the need for open communication, how a strong, authentic rapport can significantly enhance patient care and outcomes. He believes that this rapport can often be hindered by constraints created by the notion of 'being professional', an abstract set of values & principles that take the 'human' out of healthcare.
Sarah and Sal reflect on Martin's past episode, exploring themes of professionalism, authenticity, and communication in the context of soft tissue therapy. Together they delve into the complexities of maintaining a therapeutic alliance while reflecting on client interactions, what it means to be professional, and adapting to individual client needs.
Chapter Markers
- 00:00:00 - Welcome To the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
- 00:03:07 - Meet the Guests: Sarah Jones and Sal Martin
- 00:06:49 - Reflecting on Professional Values
- 00:10:27 - Navigating Imposter Syndrome
- 00:18:51 - The Role of Dress in Professionalism
- 00:22:32 - Language and Therapeutic Alliance
- 00:27:43 - Humor in Therapy: An Unprofessional Story
- 00:38:47 - Advice for New Therapists
Useful Links
- Ep.214 ‘What Values Make A Professional Therapist?' with Martin Christensen
- Friday Physio Confessions Podcast Website
- Martin Christensen on Twitter (X): @Martin_Nekkolai
- Sarah Jones website: affinitybodyworks.co.uk
- Sal Martin website: massagemotion.co.uk
Would YOU like to be a 'Reflection' guest on the podcast?
If you would like to come on the show to chat about a past episode of the podcast, contact host Matt Phillips on social media, or email matt@thesta.co.uk. You will l need a pc or laptop (not your phone), with a quality internet connection (ethernet cable plugged directly into modem is best), and obviously webcam and mic.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Ep236 'Working With West End Pro Dancers' - Reflection with Shannon Byrne
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
In the second of our 'Reflection Series', host Matt Phillips is joined by Sports Therapist Shannon Byrne of Rebound Injury Clinic in Dublin, who reflects on Ep.60 ‘Working With West End Pro Dancers’, recorded 21st July 2021 with guest Liz Bayley.
Shannon reveals how following a car crash that forced her to reconsider her own personal future in dance, listening to Ep.60 with Liz Bayley gave inspiration to Shannon to focus on making herself the 'go-to-therapist for dancers', allowing her to use her own experience of pain & frustration to help other dancers avoid the same mistakes she had made.
Now with a successful clinic in Dublin, Sharon shares her insights on injury prevention, strength conditioning for dancers, and the importance of understanding the dancer's mindset. Whether you're a therapist or simply interested in the world of sports therapy, this reflective episode offers valuable lessons on professional development and the power of looking back to move forward.
Useful Links
- Rebound Injury Clinic Website
- Rebound Injury Clinic on Instagram: @reboundinjuryclinic
- Rebound Injury Clinic on Facebook
- Liz Bayley Website
Other Episodes Of The STA Podcast With Liz Bayley
- Ep33 ' Virtual Consultation for Dancers'
- Ep.60 'Working with West End Pro Dancers'
- Ep.81 ‘Fascia Focus: Open Group Discussion‘
- Ep.122: ’The Dancer’s Foot’
Would YOU like to be a 'Reflection' guest on the podcast?
If you would like to come on the show to chat about a past episode of the podcast, contact host Matt Phillips on social media, or email matt@thesta.co.uk. You will l need a pc or laptop (not your phone), with a quality internet connection (ethernet cable plugged directly into modem is best), and obviously webcam and mic.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Friday Apr 04, 2025
Friday Apr 04, 2025
Now we have 234 episodes of hugely valuable weekly topics & discussions on the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, we have decided to start a series of shorter REFLECTION episodes, in which host Matt Phillips invites YOU the soft tissue therapist to pick one past episode of the podcast that has particularly affected your daily practice, and come on the show and chat about it.
In this episode, Matt is joined by Nicki Mansfield of MMM Therapy, who takes us back to 21/2/2023 to reflect on Ep.137 'Healthcare For People With Learning Disabilities' with guest Alistair Beverley, The Learning Disability Physio. Nicky explains why this episode had a profound impact on her approach to therapy, discussing the concept of "diagnostic overshadowing," the importance of addressing biases in healthcare, and the need for continuous education and openness in practice.
Useful Links
- Alistair Beverley Webpage
- Twitter: @theLDphysio
- Instagram: @_theLDphysio_
- Facebook: @TheLDphysio
- TikTok: @_theldphysio_
- Nicki Mansfield on Instagram: @softtissuenicki
- Nicki Mansfield on Facebook: Mansfield Massage and Movement
Would YOU like to be a 'Reflection' guest on the podcast?
If you would like to come on the show to chat about a past episode of the podcast, contact host Matt Phillips on social media, or email matt@thesta.co.uk. You will l need a pc or laptop (not your phone), with a quality internet connection (ethernet cable plugged directly into modem is best), and obviously webcam and mic.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
We reach the final part of this month’s four part series on Working with Athletes with Disabilities, in which we are joined by special guests Rich Potter and Rich 'Dickie' Davies – armed forces veterans and single below leg amputees who set world records at the end of last year on their ‘Limb-itless Expedition: Conquering The Himalayas' as the first ever amputees to achieve the half and full length of The Snowman Trek in Bhutan. With them are Sports Therapist Carla Bickerstaffe and Massage Therapist Jenny Lane, both of whom have considerable experience of working with athletes with disabilities.
While discussing the physically and mentally demanding trek, the guests share insights into the rigorous preparations, the role of sports therapy & sports massage, and the importance of self-care in their endeavor. The discussion also touches on the emotional hurdles faced, especially when unforeseen challenges forced Dickie to withdraw, underscoring the human aspect and the relentless spirit of perseverance.
Rich and Dickie’s journey is a testament to human resilience and teamwork, with valuable takeaways for anyone working with or aiming to better understand athletes with disabilities.
Chapter Markers:
- 00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
- 00:04:38 - Introducing Our Guests
- 00:06:22 - Rich 'Dickie' Davies shares his history
- 00:07:32 - Rich Potter shares his history
- 00:08:28 - Not all amputations in military are combat related
- 00:10:26 - Carla Bickerstaffe and Jenny Lane at the Invictus Games
- 00:12:44 - Preparing for the Limbitless Expedition - Soft Tissue Therapy
- 00:18:20 - The Physiology of a Stump
- 00:25:54 - Equipping Clients for Self Care
- 00:30:50 - Phantom Limb Pain
- 00:39:15 - The Limitless Expedition Challenges
- 00:43:11 - Facing Adversity and Withdrawal
- 00:50:55 - Reflections on Support and Funding
- 01:03:00 - New 'Reflection Series' on The Sports Therapy Association Podcast
Useful Links
- Invictus Games Webpage
- Blesma Armed Forces Charity Webpage
- Rich Potter on Instagram - @amputee_rich
- Rich Davies Instagram - @rightfootrich
- The Limbitless Expedition on Instagram @the_limbitless_expedition
- Carla Bickerstaffe on Instagram @sportstherapybycarla
- Jenny Lane on Instagram @jennylane.sportsmassage
Want to join the live recordings?
Episodes of the Sports Therapy Association podcast are recorded live every TUESDAY at 8pm on the Sports Therapy Association YOUTUBE CHANNEL and FACEBOOK page. Everyone is welcome - you do not have to be an STA member! If you cannot join us live, be sure to subscribe to the 'Sports Therapy Association Podcast' on all popular podcast apps to be notified when new episodes are available.
Please Support Our Podcast!
If you appreciate what we do, please take a couple of minutes to leave us a rating & review on Apple Podcasts. It really does make all the difference in helping us reach out to a larger audience. iPhone users you can do this from your phone, Android users you will need to do it from iTunes.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Saturday Mar 22, 2025
Saturday Mar 22, 2025
Dan ‘WheelsDan’ Metcalfe was in 2014 left paralysed from the waist down after a motorcycle accident. Four years later, his dreams of Paralympic hand-cycling were ended when he was hit by a car during a 600mile charity bike ride, with only 14 miles to complete. So what did he do? Achieve three scuba diving world records...
In this episode of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, Part 3 our series on 'Working With Athletes With Disabilities', Dan ‘WheelsDan’ Metcalfe shares with us honest & open details about his journey, and gives us an insight into the physical & psychological support he received along the way. With Dan are two specialists who have worked with him: Nicola Hunt, Neurological & Vestibular Physiotherapist, and Dr Katherine Dawson, Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist. Together, they explore the importance of understanding identities, navigating PTSD, and the role of therapeutic alliance in recovery.
Chapter Markers:
- 00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
- 00:03:51 - Dan Metcalfe: From Injury to Resilience
- 00:04:55 - Dr Katherine Dawson: Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist
- 00:10:17 - The Role of Support in Recovery
- 00:11:10 - Nicola Hunt: Neurological & Vestibular Physiotherapist
- 00:13:49 - Overcoming PTSD Challenges
- 00:15:15 - Training for the London Marathon
- 00:22:49 - Understanding PTSD
- 00:28:39 - The Impact of Physical Activity
- 00:37:59 - Discovering Woodturning
- 00:46:07 - Dan Metcalfe World Records in Diving
- 00:54:57 - The Complexities of The Word 'Inspiring'
- 00:58:20 - Future Goals and Diving World Records
- 01:02:40 - Raising Money For Prostate Cancer Research
- 01:02:30 - Need for Funding & Media Support During Record Attempts, Not Just After
- 01:04:22 - First Person In A Wheelchair To Complete Tough Mudder
- 01:04:40 - Eve Metcalfe: Alpine Experience 2025 To Raise Money For Spinal Research
- 01:07:20 - Concussion Courses With Nicola Hunt (Discount For STA Members)
- 01:08:30 - Dr Katherine Dawson & Virtual Reality Software For Recovery From Brain Trauma
- 01:10:10 - Details of Part 4 In This Series
Useful Links
- Help Eve Metcalfe Raise Money For Spinal Research
- Eve Metcalfe On Instagram
- Dan Metcalfe YouTube Channel
- Dan Metcalfe on Instagram
- Nicola Hunt PhysioCareRehab Website
- Concussion CPD Courses With Nicola Hunt
- Dr Katherine Dawson Sphere-Rehab Website
- Brain Recovery Zone Website
Want to join the live recordings?
Episodes of the Sports Therapy Association podcast are recorded live every TUESDAY at 8pm on the Sports Therapy Association YOUTUBE CHANNEL and FACEBOOK page. Everyone is welcome - you do not have to be an STA member! If you cannot join us live, be sure to subscribe to the 'Sports Therapy Association Podcast' on all popular podcast apps to be notified when new episodes are available.
Please Support Our Podcast!
If you appreciate what we do, please take a couple of minutes to leave us a rating & review on Apple Podcasts. It really does make all the difference in helping us reach out to a larger audience. iPhone users you can do this from your phone, Android users you will need to do it from iTunes.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Friday Mar 14, 2025
Friday Mar 14, 2025
The Invictus Games is an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans, with adaptive sports to promote recovery, rehabilitation, and respect for those who serve. In this episode of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, Part 2 our series on 'Working With Athletes With Disabilities', we are joined by two of this year's Team UK competitors, Sam May & Gemma Barnes who, together with Sports therapist Carla Bickerstaffe & Massage Therapist Jenny Lane, give us a hugely valuable insight into being part of the Invictus Games, from the perspective of a competitor and as a member of the therapy support team.
This episode emphasizes the therapeutic power of sport in recovery and the vital role of therapists in supporting athletes' physical and emotional journeys. Join us as we uncover the stories of resilience, camaraderie, and triumph over adversity, and learn how these games are not just about winning medals but also about healing and personal growth. Tune in to gain insights into working with athletes with disabilities and explore how the support of attentive therapists like Carla and Jenny can spark remarkable transformations.
Chapter Markers:
- 00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
- 00:02:40 - Meet the Guests: Sam May, Gemma Barnes, Carla Bickerstaffe & Jenny Lane
- 00:04:24 - Understanding the Invictus Games
- 00:07:01 - The Journey of Recovery
- 00:09:24 - The Role of Sports Therapy
- 00:12:17 - Service and Identity
- 00:14:17 - Working with the Invictus Team
- 00:18:30 - Therapist Selection Process Insights
- 00:20:21 - Skills of the Medical Team
- 00:24:15 - Challenges Faced as a Therapist
- 00:25:45 - Emotional Resilience
- 00:28:17 - Transitioning Back to Reality
- 00:31:29 - Reflections on the Experience
- 00:41:08 - The Journey Beyond Medals
- 00:42:02 - Memorable Moments from the Games
- 00:46:08 - Finding Joy in Competition
- 00:52:00 - The Impact of Teamwork
- 00:57:37 - Navigating Post-Games Reality
- 00:57:51 - Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes in this Series
Useful Links
- Invictus Games Webpage
- Sam May on Instagram @sam_raf_invictus
- Carla Bickerstaffe on Instagram @sportstherapybycarla
- Jenny Lane on Instagram @jennylane.sportsmassage
Want to join the live recordings?
Episodes of the Sports Therapy Association podcast are recorded live every TUESDAY at 8pm on the Sports Therapy Association YOUTUBE CHANNEL and FACEBOOK page. Everyone is welcome - you do not have to be an STA member! If you cannot join us live, be sure to subscribe to the 'Sports Therapy Association Podcast' on all popular podcast apps to be notified when new episodes are available.
Please Support Our Podcast!
If you appreciate what we do, please take a couple of minutes to leave us a rating & review on Apple Podcasts. It really does make all the difference in helping us reach out to a larger audience. iPhone users you can do this from your phone, Android users you will need to do it from iTunes.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
In Ep.231 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast we start a four episode special on 'Working With Athletes With Disabilities.' Part 1 introduces you to all of our guests over the next four weeks:
- Rich Potter & Rich Davies – armed forces veterans and single below leg amputees who set world records at the end of last year with their ‘Limb-itless Expedition: Conquering The Himalayas' as the first ever amputees to achieve the half and full length of The Snowman Trek in Bhutan, the toughest trek in the world with eleven mountain passes at altitudes of over 5,500m
- Sam May & Gemma Barnes – Team UK athletes recently returned from Invictus Games 2025, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans, with adaptive sports to promote recovery, rehabilitation, and respect for those who serve.
- Dan ‘ WheelsDan’ Metcalfe - Left paralysed from the waist down after a motorcycle accident in 2014, Dan has achieved three scuba diving world records for his disability category – fastest one mile scuba diving with and without a swimming band, and greatest distance scuba diving, all in fresh open water.
- Carla Bickerstaffe and Jenny Lane - Sports Therapist & Massage Therapist, both of whom have experience of working with athletes with disabilities, with Jenny recently returning from her position as soft tissue therapist for Team UK at this year's Invictus Games.
The episode, as always recorded live on YouTube and Facebook, emphasizes the power of achievement, overcoming obstacles, and redefining what's possible. Tune in for insights into the next three episodes, as well as personal stories and lively discussions on creating a more inclusive and understanding world for athletes with disabilities.
Chapter Markers:
- 00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
- 00:07:40 - Meet the Athletes & Therapists
- 00:12:40 - Rich Potter, The Limbitless Expedition and World Records
- 00:15:00 - Disability And The Word Inspirational
- 00:20:30 - Rich Davies - Having To Stop In The Limbitless Expedition
- 00:24:50 - Sam May - The Problems With Telling An Athlete To Stop
- 00:27:55 - Gemma Barnes - Communication Between Therapists and Athletes
- 00:32:30 - Sam May - The Invictus Games
- 00:36:40 - Not Just About The Medals
- 00:41:14 - Gemma Barnes - Adaptive Sport
- 00:45:15 - Dan Metcalfe - From Paralysis To Hand Cycling To Scuba Diving
- 00:53:30 - Detais of Next Episodes & Please Leave A Review
Useful Links
- Invictus Games Webpage
- Blesma Armed Forces Charity Webpage
- Rich Potter on Instagram - @amputee_rich
- Rich Davies Instagram - @rightfootrich
- The Limbitless Expedition on Instagram @the_limbitless_expedition
- Sam May on Instagram @sam_raf_invictus
- Dan ‘WheelsDan’ Metcalfe on YouTube @wheelsdan
- Dan ‘WheelsDan’ Metcalfe on Instagram @wheelsdan_1988
- Carla Bickerstaffe on Instagram @sportstherapybycarla
- Jenny Lane on Instagram @jennylane.sportsmassage
Want to join the live recordings?
Episodes of the Sports Therapy Association podcast are recorded live every TUESDAY at 8pm on the Sports Therapy Association YOUTUBE CHANNEL and FACEBOOK page. Everyone is welcome - you do not have to be an STA member! If you cannot join us live, be sure to subscribe to the 'Sports Therapy Association Podcast' on all popular podcast apps to be notified when new episodes are available.
Please Support Our Podcast!
If you appreciate what we do, please take a couple of minutes to leave us a rating & review on Apple Podcasts. It really does make all the difference in helping us reach out to a larger audience. iPhone users you can do this from your phone, Android users you will need to do it from iTunes.
Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk
