Jo Shapter’s journey into the world of podiatry wasn’t a straightforward one. She didn’t begin with a clear path; instead, her story unfolded in ways she never anticipated. From her beginnings in sports science to an unexpected detour into beauty and foot care, Jo’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s curiosity and passion.
She could have taken the traditional route of teaching, as many in her family did, but instead, Jo listened to the call of sports, biomechanics, and the desire to help people feel better, step by step.
Jo’s story is a reminder that we don’t always have to have everything figured out. Sometimes, the best journeys begin when we are willing to explore unfamiliar territories. For Jo, this exploration led to podiatry — a profession she discovered by accident, but one she embraced with an unwavering commitment to learn and grow.
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
Jo’s journey to becoming a podiatrist wasn’t without its hurdles. From the unexpected challenges of balancing motherhood and education, to long, tear-filled commutes during her university years, she faced every obstacle with resilience. There were moments when the path seemed overwhelmingly difficult — like when she balanced full-time study with raising young children — but Jo’s determination was unwavering.
This is where Jo’s story truly becomes motivational: it’s not just about achieving success, but about persisting through adversity. She didn’t let the difficulties of family life, financial stress, or the demands of a rigorous degree stop her. Instead, Jo used these challenges as fuel to push herself further. And this perseverance paid off, as she not only became a successful podiatrist but also inspired those around her.
The Power of Community and Mentorship
One of the most powerful aspects of Jo’s story is her commitment to uplifting others. Throughout her journey, Jo has always strived to be a positive influence, especially for those around her. Whether it was supporting her fellow students during tough times or creating opportunities for others to grow, Jo believes in the importance of lifting people up.
When Jo was at university, she shared her own experience with Natalie Kitchener, encouraging her when times were tough. That mentorship meant the world to Natalie, who went on to pursue podiatry with greater confidence. For Jo, this wasn’t just about personal success; it was about creating a ripple effect that would inspire others to follow their own paths, no matter how challenging it may seem.
The Mindset of Success: It’s About the Journey, Not Just the Achievement
Jo’s story isn’t just about what she’s achieved, but how she approaches each step in her journey. She speaks candidly about the drive to prove herself, especially after being told by a teacher that she would never amount to much. For Jo, that criticism has fueled her determination to succeed — not to show others up, but to prove to herself that she is capable.
Jo has learned that true contentment comes from within and from embracing the present. After years of pushing herself to the limit, she’s now reflecting on how far she’s come and celebrating her achievements in the moment, rather than constantly looking ahead to the next challenge.
The Importance of Finding Your Own Path
Jo’s decision to open her own clinic is another example of her unwillingness to settle for anything less than her best. While she admits that her first venture wasn’t perfect, she took the lessons learned from that experience and applied them to build something better. Her clinic may not have been in the most obvious location, but Jo’s commitment to providing exceptional care for her patients allowed her to succeed. She didn’t let external factors, like location or competition, define her success.
This lesson is invaluable for anyone looking to take control of their career: don’t wait for the perfect conditions. Start where you are and make the most of what you have. Success often comes from taking risks, learning from mistakes, and adapting as you go.
Conclusion: Just Do It, and Keep Going
Jo’s final piece of advice is simple but powerful: Just do it. Whether you’re facing doubts, setbacks, or fear of failure, the most important thing is to take action. The worst thing that can happen is that you fail — but that’s also the best thing, because it means you’ve learned and can grow from the experience.
Jo’s story is a celebration of persistence, passion, and the power of taking chances. It’s a reminder that no matter where you start, or how many obstacles stand in your way, you have the ability to succeed if you keep pushing forward. And when you do, you’ll not only achieve your goals — you’ll inspire others along the way.
As Jo says, “Don’t look for the barriers. Look for the things you can do, not the things you can’t.” So, what are you waiting for? Take that leap, embrace the challenges, and know that your journey will be worth every step.
If you have any questions about this podcast episode or are looking for a speaker for an upcoming event, please email me at tyson@podiatrylegends.com, and we can discuss the range of topics I cover.
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