In this episode of the Podiatry Legends Podcast, I’m joined by UK podiatrist and clinic owner Jonathan Shearer, founder of Footsteps Treatment Clinic in Tamworth. Jonathan’s journey is a powerful reminder that long-term success in podiatry rarely comes from clever tactics alone. It comes from relationships, consistency, and being willing to get out of the clinic and into the community.
Jonathan shares how he moved from the NHS into private practice, why that transition reignited his passion for podiatry, and how networking became one of the most important drivers of his clinic’s growth. This isn’t networking in the awkward, business-card-shuffling sense. It’s about showing up, being helpful, and building trust over time.
Why Networking Works When Marketing Feels Hard
One of the strongest themes in this conversation is that networking isn’t about selling. It’s about visibility and trust.
Jonathan explains how early in his clinic journey, he actively introduced himself to local businesses, sports clubs, councils, and community groups. He didn’t wait for referrals. He created them by being present and useful. Whether it was offering talks, supporting local teams, or simply making himself known, those small actions compounded into long-term relationships that continue to support his clinic today.
We also talk about why quick-fix marketing tactics often attract the wrong patients and why relationship-based growth tends to produce better outcomes for both clinics and patients.
NHS to Private Practice: A Mindset Shift
Jonathan openly discusses his time working in the NHS and the moment he realised staying would eventually lead to burnout. While he values the experience and exposure the NHS provided, moving into private practice gave him autonomy, energy, and a renewed sense of purpose.
We explore the mindset shift required when transitioning from institutional systems into private practice, and why clinic owners need to be mindful when hiring clinicians who’ve spent long periods in structured environments.
Relationships Over Transactions
One standout story involves Jonathan helping a professional footballer without charging a fee, simply because he could help. That decision led to a long-term relationship, a powerful testimonial, and increased credibility for his clinic.
It’s a perfect example of why not every decision should be measured purely in dollars. Sometimes, the real return on investment is trust, reputation, and connection.
What This Episode Is Really About
This episode isn’t about copying Jonathan’s exact strategies. It’s about understanding the principle behind them.
Growth doesn’t come from hiding in the clinic.
It comes from being known, trusted, and remembered.
10 Key Takeaways
1. Networking is about relationships, not selling
2. Long-term growth beats short-term marketing tactics
3. Getting out of the clinic matters
4. Visibility creates opportunity
5. Helping first builds trust
6. Community presence compounds over time
7. Not all referrals come from health professionals
8. Clinic growth requires intention
9. Relationships outperform discounts
10. Sustainable success is built, not rushed
Watch the Testimonial Video we discussed on the podcast.