When you think footwear and biomechanics Simon Bartold's name should immediately spring to mind. He has worked with elite athletes for more than three decades, been to four Olympic Games, lectured in 42 countries, worked with Asics for 20-years and was head hunted by global footwear company Salomon to head up research, design and development of their road running range.
Simon explained that he worked with some of the best sporting clubs and sports practitioners after graduating, and he did this for almost 15 years before he was paid a cent, it was all done for FREE. But as he puts it, you cannot put a price on the experience he gained.
"If you want to learn be prepared to do it for nothing, that's just the way it works".
Opportunities Arose
If you're passionate and have a mindset for wanting to learn more doors will open for you. It was through the sporting connections he made that he was offered to be the podiatrist for the Adelaide 36er's.
Once the doors opened more and more, opportunities arose. Not too long afterwards Simon was offered a position with Asics after he became quite vocal about how poorly constructed footy their boots were.
Message For Students & Recent Graduates
If you're a student or recent graduate you need to grasp the concept that it takes time to develop your skills, and even longer to develop relationships that will open doors. You've got to play the long game.
Upskilling
If you have an interest in a particular area of podiatry you need to start upskilling in that area and make an effort to learn more than anyone else. Over time your knowledge will become superior to other people, and you will be noticed, and invitations to speak will come your way, opening up even bigger doors internationally.
Staying Motivated
Simon has never had a problem getting out of bed on a Monday morning because he loved what he did each day.
"Don't focus on making money, instead focus on being better and the money will come".
If you have any questions about this podcast, please email me at , or you can contact Simon Bartold through his website Bartold Clinical.
Simon has also teamed up with Ultimate Podiatrist to run a full day event called Athletic Footwear - The Masterclass, being run in March in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney and Adelaide. (No dates set for Brisbane, but if enough people ask Simon to run one he will).
iTunes Reviews
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If you like this podcast and you're looking for more small business and marketing tips you may also enjoy It's No Secret with Dr T.
WORKSHOP - Biomechanics & Business: Profit From A Better Understanding. Gold Coast 7-8 June BOOK NOW
Every successful podiatrist has an excellent foundation in biomechanics, it's that simple, and this two-day workshop is going to be jam-packed with useful biomechanical information you can apply immediately in your business and with your patients.
In addition to having excellent biomechanical skills, it's equally important to know how to market these skills. You can have the most advanced biomechanical equipment and have acquired biomechanical skills far beyond any of your competitors, but without a well thought out marketing strategy, it will, unfortunately, go unnoticed.
This is why we're bringing Biomechanics and Business together in one 2-Day Workshop.
Podiatry Legends Facebook Page
I have set up a Podiatry Legends Facebook page, where I will be posting additional small business tips and information regarding podiatry events around the world. Check it out: Podiatry Legends Facebook Page.
If you'd like more marketing, management and business advice for your podiatry business you should take a look at my other podcast; It's No Secret with Dr T.
If you enjoyed this episode you might also enjoy:
Episode 014 - Josh Truscott Ultimate Podiatrist (CPD Made Easy)
