Sole Science

About Sole Science

Official podcast of Sports & Exercise Podiatry Australasia (SEPA). Evidence. Insight. Action. Be part of our community. Join SEPA today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) www.sepa.org.au

Publisher

Sports and Exercise Podiatry Australasia

Category

education · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

26 Jan 2026

Latest episode

5 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Sept 2026

   Rebecca Rushton: Deconstructing Friction, Shear Dynamics and the Science of Blister Prevention

   How does a practitioner transform a personal frustration with recurrent blisters into an internationally recognised hub for skin biomechanics and clinician education? For Rebecca Rushton, a podiatrist with over 30 years of clinical experience based in Esperance, Western Australia, the journey began after realising that standard university training and traditional taping methods were failing to keep athletes blister-free. In this episode of Sole Science, hosts Patrick Doan and John Charles sit down with Rebecca to dismantle the long-standing misconceptions surrounding blister causation, prevention and treatment. Together, they explore the critical distinction between rubbing and shear, the biomechanical drivers of skin distortion and why effective management must always be matched to specific anatomical locations rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all remedy. In this episode, we dive into: The Shear vs Rubbing Fallacy: Why confusing friction with rubbing has led the profession up the garden path and how reducing the coefficient of friction to allow targeted slip actually spares the stratum spinosum from destructive shear forces. Location-Specific Biomechanics: Unpacking the mechanical drivers behind different blister sites, from digital clawing in apical toe blisters to structural arch flattening and overstriding in posterior heel presentation. Targeted Interventions & Material Science: The clinical application of PTFE (Engo) patches, insoles and the underlying evidence behind sock thickness and material density. Refining Prescribing & Orthotic Design: How to troubleshoot orthotic-induced irritation, optimise rearfoot support and utilise footwear heel-to-toe differentials to manage forefoot load. Real-World Testing Grounds: Insights gained from working multi-day ultra-marathons, where rapid feedback loops reveal what truly works under extreme repetitions and high forces. Bridging the Educational Gap: The motivation behind creating Blister Prevention University and Blister Prevention Pro to equip podiatrists, pharmacists and the public with evidence-based management strategies. Whether you are a sports podiatrist looking to refine your biomechanical reasoning, a clinician treating endurance runners or a practitioner wanting to master skin fatigue management, this episode provides a masterclass in turning a neglected sub-niche into a clinical superpower. Connect with our guest: Rebecca Rushton: Connect with Rebecca on Intagram via @blisterpod1. (https://www.instagram.com/blisterpod1/) Explore articles, resources and educational content via Rebecca's website Blister Prevention (https://blister-prevention.com/). Join the SEPA Community Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. Whether you're a student, a recent graduate or an established clinician, SEPA offers a world of opportunity—from exclusive access to the latest research and CPD to mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in the field. www.sepa.org.au (http://www.sepa.org.au)

2. 

   13 Aug 2026

   Orthotics Special Episode. Unpacking Custom Orthoses: Precision, Innovation and the Future of Podiatric Practice

   How is the landscape of custom orthotic design and manufacturing evolving in modern podiatry? In this special episode of Sole Science, hosts Pat Doan and John Charles sit down with four leading figures in orthotics from across the sectors of clinical practice, manufacturing, and digital technology: Kent Sweeting (Queensland Orthotic Lab), Rhys Pierce (Footwork), Konrad Job (LaserCam Orthotics), and Darcy Dore (The Run Clinic / Propel3D). Together, the panel unpacks the complete orthotic ecosystem—bridging the gap between the clinician’s initial prescription and the laboratory’s production line. From defining true clinical success to navigating the shift from traditional subtractive manufacturing to chair-side 3D printing, this conversation tackles the core questions and modern realities shaping the future of custom foot orthoses in Australia. In this episode, we dive into: Defining Clinical Success: Why true orthotic success relies on shifting tissue load effectively, achieving comfort, and enabling patient progression rather than relying on symptom resolution alone. The Pathomechanical Approach: Tackling the debate surrounding over-prescription, the impact of modern footwear technology on performance and injury, and why prescription must be rooted in clinical reasoning. Scope and Ownership: Who owns orthotic therapy? A hard look at why podiatrists must retain clinical mastery over custom foot capture, foot morphology, and orthotic prescription over other healthcare disciplines. Foot Capture Foundations: Exploring the reliability, inter-rater variability, and clinical intent behind different capture methods—from weight-bearing scanning to plaster casting—and avoiding flat orthoses. Debunking the 3D Printing Myth: Examining the differences between SLS nylon, FDM printing, and polypropylene materials, while addressing misconceptions around modifying and grinding 3D-printed devices in-clinic. Strengthening Lab-Clinician Relationships: Why orthotic prescribing requires a collaborative partnership rather than a transactional service, and how developing a shared language prevents costly mistakes. Future Directions: A look into emerging delivery models—including in-clinic 3D printing, CAD empowerment, sensor-embedded active orthotics, and evolving regulatory standards under the TGA. Whether you are a new graduate looking to refine your prescribing skills, an experienced clinician interested in 3D printing, or a practitioner wanting to build better relationships with your orthotic lab, this episode provides invaluable insights into the science, craft, and future of custom orthoses. Connect & Join the Community Guest Info: Kent Sweeting via Instagram @qol1985 (https://www.instagram.com/qol1985/), Rhys Pierce via Footwork (https://www.footwork.com.au/contact/), Konrad Job via CadCam Orthotics (https://cadcamorthotics.com.au/about-us/konrad-job-1000x1000/), Darcy Dore via Instagram @darcy_sports_pod (https://www.instagram.com/darcy_sports_pod/) Join SEPA: Get connected and become part of our community! www.sepa.org.au (http://www.sepa.org.au)

3. 

   27 Jul 2026

   A/Prof Kade Paterson: Bridging Research, Elite Sport and the 'Humanity' of Podiatry Practice

   What does it take to bridge high-level academic research with elite clinical performance? In this episode of Sole Science, hosts Patrick Doan and Darcy Dore sit down with Associate Professor Kade Paterson—Dame Kate Campbell Fellow at the University of Melbourne, consulting sports podiatrist at Lakeside Sports Medicine Centre and Collingwood Football Club, and President of Sports and Exercise Podiatry Australasia (SEPA). From his early days as an exercise science student with a hidden passion for skateboarding and running to leading world-first randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on joint osteoarthritis and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), Kade offers a candid, evidence-backed deep dive into the future of lower-limb sports medicine. Key Takeaways From Passive Mechanics to Active Load: How the discipline has evolved from passive mechanical tweaks to active, load- and exercise-based interventions—a shift reflected in the evolution from 'sports podiatry' to 'sports and exercise podiatry'. Decoupling Symptoms from Disease: Why clinicians must treat the person, not the scan. Kade highlights why symptom modification remains the priority in osteoarthritis management until true disease-modifying agents exist. The Foot Spring Mechanism: Insights on energy storage and arch deformation from recent consensus guidelines. Learn when preserving early joint mobility aids synovial fluid health, and when to pivot to stiffer rocker-bottom footwear for end-stage joint stiffness. Cutting Through the PRP Hype: Behind the scenes of Kade's landmark 2022 RESTORE trial on ankle osteoarthritis. Kade unpacks the logistics of double-blind blood trials, the unexpected therapeutic effects of saline placebos, and why high-quality methodology matters in an era of biased data. Elite AFL Practice: The high-stakes reality of working with Collingwood FC, managing first MTP joint pain in professional footballers where perfect mechanical setups face the harsh reality of match day. Exercise as Systemic Relief: Why physical activity extends far beyond local tissue strengthening, serving as a powerful remote pain modifier across the whole body. Connect & Join the Community Guest Info: Connect with A/Prof. Kade Paterson and explore his research via ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kade-Paterson) Join SEPA: Elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry. Whether you are a student, new grad, or seasoned clinician, join SEPA for exclusive access to research, CPD, and mentorship: www.sepa.org.au (http://www.sepa.org.au)

4. 

   25 Jun 2026

   Ian Griffiths: Evidence Over Hype, the Mechanics of Orthoses and the Evolution of Sports Podiatry

   How do you balance a globally respected clinical practice with cutting-edge academic research? For Ian Griffiths—a Fellow of both the Royal College of Podiatry and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, and a lecturer in sports medicine at Queen Mary University of London—the answer lies in a relentless pursuit of evidence over hype. Backed by decades of elite sport experience, including working inside the London 2012 Olympics Athletes' Village, Ian brings a rigorously evidence-based yet deeply human approach to lower limb sports medicine. Our hosts, Pat, John, and Harriet, sit down with Ian for a wonderfully candid conversation that challenges some of the most deeply entrenched beliefs in the podiatry profession. Together, they strip back the glamour of high-tech clinical tools to explore why critical appraisal must always steer contemporary practice over passing trends. In this episode, we dive into: The Reality of Sports Podiatry: Why sports podiatry belongs to anyone adopting a serious, data-driven approach to their training—from Premier League footballers to driven parkrun enthusiasts. Academic Fighting & Plantar Heel Pain: Inside Ian's high-profile "letter to the editor" response to the JOSPT guidelines, critiquing the overvaluation of resistance training and the complete omission of shockwave therapy. How Orthoses Actually Work: A refreshingly honest look at orthotic mechanisms. Ian breaks down the four overarching umbrella categories—kinematic, kinetic, neuromotor, and psychological—while embracing the nuance of what we still don't know. The Physics of Rearfoot Posting: Insights from Ian's collaborative lab research measuring shell stiffness. Discover why modifying the rearfoot post alters midfoot compliance, regardless of whether you're using 3D-printed nylon or traditional polypropylene. Dismantling Population Shoe Logic: Why big data shows that matching footwear to foot posture fails to prevent injuries, and how clinicians can shift toward nuanced, pathology-specific prescribing instead. Overrated vs. Underrated: Ian steps up as the first-ever participant in this rapid-fire segment, delivering unfiltered takes on "overpronation" as a diagnosis, foot intrinsic strengthening, maximalist stack heights, and why UK conference coffee is deeply tragic. Whether you're a student trying to make sense of conflicting biomechanical frameworks, a clinician looking to shield your practice from social media misinformation, or simply a footwear geek curious about the true physics inside your shoes, this episode serves as an essential masterclass in keeping your clinical reasoning sharper than your kit. Connect with our guest: Ian Griffiths: Connect with Ian on Instagram @sportspodiatryinfo (https://www.instagram.com/sportspodiatryinfo) and view her ongoing academic work via ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ian-Griffiths-10). Join the SEPA Community (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) www.sepa.org.au (https://www.sepa.org.au)

5. 

   18 Jun 2026

   Prof. Debbie Turner: Movement as Medicine, Demystifying Point-of-Care Ultrasound and the Reality of Placement Design

   What does it take to truly future-proof the podiatry profession? In this episode of Sole Science, hosts Patrick Doan and Darcy Dore sit down with Professor Debbie Turner, Podiatry Program Coordinator at QUT, to unpack the complex intersections of education, advanced clinical technology, and professional longevity. With a career deeply rooted in NHS clinical practice, rheumatology, and diabetes research, Debbie brings a refreshing, evidence-backed perspective to the massive shifts currently reshaping the field. In this episode, we explore: The Power of 'Use It or Lose It': How Debbie’s extensive work with chronic, inflammatory rheumatological conditions reinforces the concept of movement as medicine, and why physical activity remains an under-prioritised tool against irreversible joint damage. The Practicality of Point-of-Care Ultrasound: Why integration beats outsourcing. Debbie explains how highly accessible, modern systems with strong Doppler capabilities can—and should—be standard fixtures for both MSK and vascular assessments in everyday practice. The Logistics of Modern Placements: An inside look at QUT’s flexible, block-based placement model, the freedom it gives students to pursue niche interests, and the genuine struggle to find private practitioners willing to host students for 70-hour blocks. Rethinking the "New Grad" Narrative: Why expecting complete commercial autonomy on day one is unique to podiatry compared to other health disciplines, and how business owners are under-utilising the advanced cultural and entrepreneurial skill sets of today’s graduates. Unpopular Opinions De-brief: The panel goes head-to-head on listener-sourced hot takes, debating whether clinical skills inherently outshine business prowess, the real utility of force plates, and if biomechanics education has truly evolved past rigid root theory. The Circular Economy of Lower-Limb Care: A vital conversation on professional sustainability. Debbie challenges the community to look beyond environmental catchphrases and actively consider the lifetime waste of orthoses, the carbon footprint of the footwear industry, and the power of repairing over replacing. From deep-dives into emerging shear-force smart insoles to a candid look at how social media algorithms shape clinical credibility, this episode serves as an essential pulse-check on where podiatry is heading and how clinicians can actively shape its direction. Connect with our guest: Professor Debbie Turner: Connect with Debbie and view her ongoing academic work via ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Debbie-Turner). Join the SEPA Community (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or an established clinician, SEPA offers a world of opportunity—from exclusive access to the latest research and CPD, to mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in the field. www.sepa.org.au (https://www.sepa.org.au)

6. 

   10 Jun 2026

   Dr. Daniel Bonanno: From Blueprinting Basketball Shoes to Bridging the Research-Practice Gap

   How do you transition from a ten-year-old sketching sneakers to becoming one of the leading voices in footwear biomechanics and podiatric research? For Dr. Daniel Bonanno, Associate Professsor and Graduate Research Coordinator at La Trobe University, the evolution was fuelled by an enduring fascination with sports and a profound commitment to human movement. Our host, Patrick Doan, sits down for a candid conversation with Dan to dismantle the boundaries between academic inquiry and clinical reality. Together, they explore how contemporary podiatry is shifting away from a strictly pathology-focused medical model toward holistic, patient-centered care. Dan opens up about his late-career transition into a PhD, his strategies for managing imposter syndrome, and how clinical reasoning must always outshine the glitz of expensive technology. In this episode, we dive into: The Mindset Shift in Elite Care: Why treating high-performance athletes forced Dan to look beyond tissue injury to prioritise patient psychology, personal beliefs, and performance goals over pure pathology. The High-Cut vs. Low-Cut Debate: Early insights from Dan's latest research mapping basketball shoe biomechanics. Discover what an NBA-style draft combine revealed about footwear height and explosive performance. De-risking Research for Clinicians: Practical blueprints for busy practitioners who want to dip their toes into original research without burning out, including the power of collaborative mentorship and achievable project scaling. Combating the Professional Vacuum: A hard look at Dan's 2024 data on student recruitment barriers. Why every clinician is a "billboard" for podiatry, and how extended scopes—like graduating as a scheduled medicines prescriber—are redefining the field. The Low-Hanging Fruit of Tech: Why expensive force plates and 3D scanners are meaningless without clinical reasoning, and why the humblest tool—like a compressed shoe insole—can sometimes tell the most vital story. Overrated vs. Underrated: A rapid-fire segment covering everything from gait retraining for shin pain to the modern evolutionary threat of exercise science degrees. Whether you are a new graduate navigating early-career imposter syndrome, a solo practitioner looking to shield yourself from burnout, or an athlete curious about the true science behind your footwear, this episode serves as an essential masterclass in advancing both your practice and the profession. Connect with our guest: Dr Daniel Bonanno: Connect with Dan on X @DanielRBonanno (https://x.com/DanielRBonanno) or via ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Daniel-Bonanno-2). Join the SEPA Community (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or an established clinician, SEPA offers a world of opportunity—from exclusive access to the latest research and CPD, to mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in the field. www.sepa.org.au (https://www.sepa.org.au)

7. 

   5 May 2026

   Michael Nitschke and Thomas Do Canto: The Athlete-Clinician Edge: Running, Resilience, and the Super Shoe Revolution

   How do you bridge the gap between elite performance on the track and precision care in the clinic? For Thomas Do Canto, the 2024 Australian Marathon Champion and Michael Nitschke, a sub-4-minute 1500m runner and veteran sports podiatrist, the answer lies in empathy born from injury and a deep curiosity about human movement. Recording live from the 2025 ASICS SMA Conference in Hobart, hosts Pat and John sit down with two of the most respected voices in Australian running performance. They explore the evolution of sports podiatry from a "blended" profession to a recognised leader in lower limb biomechanics, emphasising that the best clinical outcomes often come from matching high-tech data with old-school communication. In this episode, we dive into: The Athlete’s Empathy: How personal experience with almost every running injury imaginable helps Thomas and Michael build immediate "buy-in" and trust with patients. The "Super Shoe" Spectrum: A deep dive into the shift from motion control to maximalist "super shoes". Michael explains why these shoes are the "e-bikes" of running—reducing the barrier to entry and making the sport more enjoyable for recreational runners. Data vs. Nuance: Why Michael uses data to describe habits rather than prescribe them, and how Thomas utilises visual gait analysis to cut through the "noise" of modern technology. The Psychology of the Injured Athlete: Strategies for managing competitive kids and parents, focussing on long-term resilience rather than rushing a return to play. The Future of the Profession: Reflecting on the significance of a podiatrist delivering the keynote address at the SMA Conference and the importance of nurturing the next generation of passionate clinicians. AI in the Clinic: How Thomas uses AI to reduce the administrative burden, allowing for more comprehensive and personalised patient education plans. Whether you're looking to optimise your own marathon training or looking for a blueprint on how to grow a specialised sports podiatry practice, this episode offers a masterclass in blending the art and science of running. Connect with our guests: Thomas Do Canto: Instagram @thomasdocanto (https://www.instagram.com/thomasdocanto/) Michael Nitschke: SPARC (Sports and Arthritis Clinic), Adelaide Instagram @sparc_sport (https://www.instagram.com/sparc_sport/) Join the SEPA Community (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or an established clinician, SEPA offers a world of opportunity—from exclusive access to the latest research and CPD, to mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in the field. www.sepa.org.au (https://www.sepa.org.au)

8. 

   22 Apr 2026

   Dr. Chris Bishop: Precision Biomechanics, the Super Shoe Hype, and the Future of Orthotic Innovation

   What defines excellence in sports podiatry in an era of tech overload? For Dr. Chris Bishop, a world leading expert in biomechanics and footwear, it starts with a return to the basics: a rapid, accurate diagnosis. In this episode, the hosts dive deep into Chris’s prolific career as the founder of The Biomechanics Lab and his role as a consultant biomechanist for ASICS. Chris shares groundbreaking insights from his research on variable stiffness orthotics, explaining how 3D printing allows clinicians to tune devices for specific physiological gains, such as improving running economy by up to 4%. We also explore: The "Super Shoe" Reality Check: Why foams matter more than plates, and why these high-velocity shoes might actually increase injury risk for novice runners. The RUN-CAT Tool: How to objectively assess footwear comfort and why heel cushioning and forefoot flexibility remain the best predictors of patient adherence. The Cricket Conundrum: Managing the extreme asymmetric loads of fast bowlers and why training load management often beats "magic" footwear. The Tech Stack: Chris’s recommendations for essential clinical tools—from force plates to handheld dynamometry—and his "innovate or die" philosophy. Career Blueprint: Advice for the next generation on building a world-class network and staying curious in a rapidly evolving field. Whether you are a seasoned sports podiatrist or a student just starting out, this episode is a masterclass in blending high-level research with pragmatic clinical excellence. Connect with Dr. Chris Bishop: Instagram/Facebook: @thebiomechanicslab Join the SEPA Community (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/)Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or an established clinician, SEPA offers a world of opportunity—from exclusive access to the latest research and CPD, to mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in the field. www.sepa.org.au (http://www.sepa.org.au)

9. 

   7 Apr 2026

   Matt Clarke: The Olympian’s Perspective on High-Performance Podiatry

   In this episode, hosts Patrick Doan, Harriet Thurlow, and Aisling McHugh sit down with two-time Olympian and Sports Podiatrist, Matthew Clarke. Matt offers a rare "dual-lens" perspective, navigating the world of elite athletics as a 3,000m steeplechaser while maintaining a high-level of clinical practice. In this wide-ranging conversation, Matt shares how his experiences on the track directly inform his patient care, covering: The Parallel Path: How Matt’s journey into elite running began simultaneously with his podiatry studies at La Trobe University to "fill the void" of a light first-year contact schedule. Creative Problem Solving: Why sports podiatry often requires "throwing out the rule book" to help athletes meet aggressive recovery timelines. Injury as a Teacher: A look at Matt’s personal battles with hamstring tears and a complex Achilles sheath injury, and how being a "terrible patient" taught him to better empathise with his clients. The Steeplechase Nuance: The biomechanical demands of "running over something," the neuromuscular economy of hurdling, and why a "springy" Achilles is non-negotiable for elite runners. Footwear Science: Matt’s expert take on the evolution of running shoes, from the benefits of Piba foam and high-stack rockers to the transition from specialised leather spikes to modern ventilated uppers. Clinical Psychology: How the skills of "psychoanalysing" patients in the clinic—tailoring communication to suit anxious or ambitious personalities—transfer to coaching the next generation of athletes at Team Tempo. Whether you are a competitive runner, a clinician, or a student, Matt’s insights into balancing the "risk-reward" of elite performance provide a masterclass in modern sports medicine Guest Bio: Matt Clarke Matt Clarke is a dual Olympian in the 3,000m steeplechase, having represented Australia at both the Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games. He is currently the reigning Oceania and Australian champion and holds the South Australian record for the steeplechase with a personal best of 8:16.57. When he is not competing on the world stage, Matt is a practicing sports podiatrist at the Sports and Arthritis Clinic in South Australia. He specialises in helping athletes optimise performance and prevent injury by integrating evidence-based clinical practice with his firsthand knowledge of elite-level training. Matt also serves as a coach for Team Tempo, where he mentors developing distance athletes. His unique "clinician-athlete" perspective allows him to bridge the gap between high-performance sports and specialised podiatric care. Stream now to join the conversation on clinical excellence and elite performance. 🎧👟 Join the SEPA Community (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/)Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or an established clinician, SEPA offers a world of opportunity—from exclusive access to the latest research and CPD, to mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in the field. www.sepa.org.au (http://www.sepa.org.au)

10. 

    7 Mar 2026

    Winter Sports, Master Boot Fitting and AFL Clinical Hacks with Emma Poynton

    In this episode, hosts Patrick Doan, Darcy Dore and Harriet Thurlow sit down with Sports Podiatrist, Emma Poynton and explore the intersection of clinical excellence and practical innovation. Emma brings a wealth of experience from the highest levels of professional sport; currently serving as a podiatrist for the Western Bulldogs (AFL/W) and the Australian Open. In this technical deep-dive, Emma shares her fascinating insights into the world of elite sports medicine, covering: Winter Sports Biomechanics: Why skating and skiing require power to be driven off the medial edge of the foot rather than a traditional heel-to-toe motion. The Rigidity Challenge: Navigating the "turf war" between podiatrists and boot fitters when fitting orthotics into carbon-fibre skates and $1,500 ski boots. AFL Realities: Why "funky" big toe joints (1st MPJ changes) are so prevalent in professional football and how she manages the chaos of pre-season overload. The Australian Open: Earning player trust in the "dungeon" of Rod Laver Arena and why a "less is more" approach is vital for Grand Slam success. The Elite Toolkit: A look at the "iconic" clinical hacks Emma uses to modify professional boots; from grinding studs to using a cobbler for brand-locked athletes. Whether you are a student, a private practitioner, or aspiring to work in high-performance sport, Emma’s "keep it simple" philosophy offers a masterclass in clinical confidence. Guest Bio: Emma Poynton Emma Poynton is a specialist sports and exercise podiatrist and a Master of Health Specialisation (Podiatric Medicine). She currently serves as the consultant podiatrist for the Western Bulldogs (AFL/W/VFL) and is a key member of the elite sports medicine unit at the Australian Open. With a background as a high-level athlete in ice hockey, Emma brings a unique "clinician-athlete" perspective to her work. She is a recognized leader in the field, dedicated to advancing podiatric standards within multidisciplinary high-performance teams and mentoring the next generation of sports clinicians. Stream now to join the conversation on clinical excellence and elite performance. 🎧👟 Join the SEPA Community (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/)Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or an established clinician, SEPA offers a world of opportunity—from exclusive access to the latest research and CPD, to mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in the field. www.sepa.org.au (http://www.sepa.org.au)

11. 

    13 Feb 2026

    The High-Performance Foot with Sam Turner

    In this episode, hosts Patrick Doan and John Charles welcome Samuel Turner, a prominent sports and exercise podiatrist with the rare distinction of being dually qualified as both a podiatrist and an orthotist. Sam operates out of Life Performance Sports Medicine in Melbourne and has built a career at the intersection of clinical excellence and elite athletic performance. The conversation explores Sam’s extensive experience as a consultant for professional football clubs, including North Melbourne (AFL/AFLW) and Western United (A-League). From the technical nuances of orthotic prescription, to the high-stakes management of sponsorship and footwear design, Sam provides an insider's perspective on what it means to truly "own the foot" in a professional sporting environment. This episode is essential for clinicians looking to refine their orthotic manufacturing knowledge, understand the varying biomechanical demands of different football codes, and learn how to integrate effectively into high-performance medical teams. Key Topics Covered: Defining the Specialty: Sam discusses the evolving scope of sports and exercise podiatry, emphasizing a focus on "people who move"—from elite professional athletes to the broader active population. The Orthotist Advantage: An exploration of how Sam’s background in prosthetics and orthotics informs his "less is more" philosophy, prioritizing therapeutic impact and comfort over excessive material. The Modern Orthotic Toolkit: A candid discussion on the evolution of materials, comparing EVA and polypropylene with 3D printing technology, and why clinical outcomes must always outweigh the "novelty" of new tech. Football Code Demands: Insights into the specific injury profiles of AFL versus Soccer, including the management of Achilles pathologies, Jones fractures, and the specific footwear challenges faced by AFLW athletes. The Commercial vs. Clinical Balance: How to navigate player sponsorships and the aesthetic preferences of athletes while maintaining a primary focus on injury prevention and gait efficiency. High-Performance Screening: A look at the components of a professional pre-season screening and how to implement effective podiatric checkpoints within a busy multidisciplinary club. Guest Bio: Samuel Turner Sam Turner is a highly specialized sports and exercise podiatrist and qualified orthotist. He currently serves as a consultant podiatrist for the North Melbourne Football Club and Western United Football Club, while maintaining a clinical practice at Life Performance Sports Medicine in Melbourne. A recognized expert in football biomechanics, Sam is a leading advocate for footwear education and is widely known via his professional platform, "That Football Podiatrist." He is dedicated to advancing the role of the podiatrist within elite sports medicine and high-performance environments. Stream now to join the conversation on the future of sports podiatry and elite performance. 🎧👟 Join the SEPA Community Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or an established clinician, SEPA offers a world of opportunity—from exclusive access to the latest research and CPD, to mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in the field. www.sepa.org.au

12. 

    26 Jan 2026

    Professional Growth and Clinical Insights with John Osborne

    Welcome to the debut episode of Sole Science, the official podcast of Sports and Exercise Podiatry Australasia (SEPA) (https://www.sepa.org.au/). In this inaugural session, hosts Patrick Doan and Harriet Thurlow introduce John Osborne, an experienced sports podiatrist and one of only seven practitioners in Australia to hold the title of Certified Sports Podiatrist. John shares his professional journey and his passion for the niche field of sports and exercise podiatry. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of the profession and unpacks how practitioners can unite objective data with a holistic, patient-centered approach to care. John also provides a "behind-the-scenes" look at his current research into muscle strength and how it relates to plantar heel pain. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of sports science, research, and clinical practice. Key Topics Covered: Defining the Specialty: John discusses the name change to "Sports and Exercise Podiatry" and what this broader scope means for both the profession and patients. The Path to Certification: A look at the value of peer-reviewed recognition and the responsibility that comes with being a leader in the field. Rethinking Rehabilitation: An exploration of traditional exercise models and why it’s important to match rehabilitation to the physical demands of daily activities. The Clinical Toolkit: A balanced discussion on using technology for objective measurements versus the essential role of patient education and communication. Practical Strategies for Heel Pain: John outlines his primary clinical approach, including the importance of footwear, education, and empowering patients with clear management strategies. Guest Bio: John Osborne John Osborne is a Certified Sports Podiatrist and PhD candidate at La Trobe University. His current doctoral research specifically investigates the role of muscle strength in plantar heel pain (plantar fasciitis). A published researcher, John recently authored an analysis of foot and ankle exercise prescription for the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, which he presented at the 2023 Sports Medicine Australia Conference. With a background in strength and conditioning, he is a dedicated advocate for evidence-based care and the continued advancement of the podiatry profession in Australia. Stream now to join the conversation on the future of sports and exercise podiatry! 🎧👟 Join the SEPA Community Enjoyed this conversation and want to elevate your career in sports and exercise podiatry? Join SEPA and become a member today. (https://www.sepa.org.au/you/become-a-sepa-member/) Whether you're a student, a recent graduate, or an established clinician, SEPA offers a world of opportunity—from exclusive access to the latest research and CPD, to mentorship and networking with some of the most respected names in the field.

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