O&P Rising

In this episode, guest host Caitlin Peters, CPO, a board-certified prosthetist and orthotic resident at Shriners Hospital for Children in Greenville, SC, sits down with Shree Thaker, Director of Communications and Partnerships at the Amputee Coalition. Together, they explore the Coalition's powerful evolution—from a grassroots peer support group to a national organization offering robust resources like virtual support groups, youth camps, educational materials, and advocacy initiatives such as So Everybody Can Move. Shree shares how the organization empowers individuals with limb loss and limb difference through free, accessible programming and how professionals and community members can get involved in advancing the Coalition's mission.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode of O&P Rising, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Abbey Senczyszyn, CPO, of Bremer Prosthetic Design, chats with Adrienne Hill, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, program director of Kennesaw State's O&P Master's Program. Together, they explore the vital role of mentorship, personal branding, and networking in shaping successful careers in the O&P profession. Adrienne shares personal stories and practical advice for emerging professionals, emphasizing the value of authentic connections, empathy, and the give-and-take of mentor-mentee relationships. The conversation also delves into how professionals can balance introverted and extroverted traits to communicate effectively and thrive in a people-focused profession.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode of O&P Rising, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Kaleigh Neely, CPO, chats with Sheryl Sachs, CPO, of Dankmeyer Prosthetics & Orthotics. They explore the critical role of advocacy in the O&P profession, Sheryl's journey into policy work, and why young professionals should get involved. The conversation also highlights the importance of research, collaboration, and legislative efforts to shape the future of the profession.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, guest host Denise Hull, CPO, a newly certified prosthetist/orthotist at Wheeler O&P, chats with Gerry Stark, PhD, CPO/L, FAAOP(D), director of clinical and technical operations for BionIT Labs and president-elect of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists. With over 30 years in the field, Gerry shares invaluable insights on mentorship, professional development, and navigating a purposeful career in O&P. He reflects on the evolution of the Academy, the power of networking, and the importance of embracing innovation. The conversation also explores how early-career clinicians can engage with professional societies, adopt emerging technologies, and set meaningful career goals to thrive in the profession.    O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Amani Weekes-Daniel, a board-eligible prosthetist/orthotist at Active Life in Los Angeles, sits down with Leigh Davis, MSPO, CPO, LPO, FAAOP(D), from Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, to explore the vital role of mentorship in the O&P profession. Together, they discuss how persistence, goal setting, and consistent communication can build meaningful and impactful mentor-protégé relationships, shaping the future of O&P professionals.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Anna Cook, an orthotic and prosthetic resident at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare in St. Paul, Minnesota, takes on hosting duties. She's joined by Steve Fletcher, CPO, Director of Professional Credentialing for the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics, Inc., to discuss ABC's move to require dual certification for future practitioners. They delve into the historical decisions leading up to this change, which began with an increase in educational requirements and later included combined educational programs. They also cover the shift to combined residencies and board exams, the rationale behind these changes, and the impact on current and future residents. Steve highlights key dates and timelines for these new requirements, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead. The conversation also addresses the evolving nature of the profession and how the new dual certification will offer flexibility and efficiency in responding to demands, without compromising the ability to specialize.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Cassandra Delgado, CPO, an early career orthotist-prosthetist and Clinical Director at Prosthetic & Orthotic Associates in Middletown, NY, takes on hosting duties. She's joined by Maggie Baumer, Leader of Enterprise Patient Advocacy at Hanger Clinic, and Dr. Chad Duncan, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program Director at Drexel University, for an engaging discussion on building a positive workplace culture. Together, they explore the impact of fostering a welcoming environment, encouraging teamwork, and practicing respectful communication. They share actionable strategies to address outdated behaviors, create open dialogue, and handle challenging situations using thoughtful communication techniques, paving the way for a more collaborative and supportive workplace.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.   Show notes For additional resources on cultivating positive workplace cultures: www.righttobe.org/resources  Regional Resident Liaison (RRL) Network - The National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education  https://terrellstrayhorn.com/the-belonging-lab/  https://community.thriveglobal.com/why-workplace-belonging-is-critical-to-your-bottom-line/  https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/how-to-create-a-culture-of-belonging-at-your-company/438493  For HR:  https://www.shrm.org/home 

In this episode, we continue the conversation with Kaleigh Neely, CPO of the P&O Group, and Abbey Senczyszyn, CPO of Bremer Prosthetic Design, joined by Nate Kapa, CP and president of Bremer Prosthetic Design. Together, they explore the challenges O&P residents face and the support systems that are crucial to their success. Highlighting the residency period as a vital investment in both future clinicians and patient care, they address the financial concerns while emphasizing the long-term benefits. The discussion also touches on the importance of better communication between educational institutions and residency sites to align expectations. Additionally, they underscore the role of enthusiasm, mentorship, and leadership opportunities in sustaining passion and fostering growth among young professionals in the field.   Be sure to listen to part 1 and part 2 of this conversation.    O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we continue the conversation between Kaleigh Neely, CPO, a certified orthotist-prosthetist at Geauga Rehabilitation Engineering and Abbey Senczyszyn, a certified orthotist prosthetist at Bremer Prosthetic Design. They discuss financial challenges faced by rising orthotists and prosthetists. The conversation emphasized the importance of advocating for better compensation and support systems to retain talent and improve the profession's longevity. Be sure to listen to part 1 of this conversation here.    O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we hand over the hosting duties to Sophia Marinucci, MS, MSOP, an orthotics resident at Yanke Bionics. Sophia sits down with Kristin Carnahan CPO, FAAOP, and DeAnna Chapman, CPO, FAAOP, to discuss managing expectations in the O&P profession. They explore the importance of effective communication, setting realistic expectations, and maintaining strong professional relationships. The discussion also covers "level setting" techniques to ensure alignment among all parties, along with strategies for managing both patient and personal expectations. Additionally, they emphasize the value of volunteering and the role of a growth mindset in advancing professional development.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, we hand over the hosting duties to Kaleigh Neely, CPO, a certified orthotist-prosthetist at Geauga Rehabilitation Engineering. Kaleigh sits down with Abbey Senczyszyn, a certified orthotist prosthetist at Bremer Prosthetic Design, to discuss managing finances as rising professionals in the O&P field. They explore the financial challenges of pursuing a master's degree and residency, including the burden of student loan debt, and stress the importance of companies investing in residents' education. Additionally, they highlight the need to support young professionals through networking, mentorship, and advocacy to prevent burnout and ensure ongoing engagement in their careers.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we hand over the hosting duties to Trey Cimorelli, an orthotist prosthetist at Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics. Trey sits down with Nathan Kapa, CPO, president of Bremer Prosthetic Design and vice president of the National Association for the Advancement of Orthotics and Prosthetics.  They dive into the world of state and federal advocacy, discussing how unified efforts can lead to improved patient care. Tune in for updates on recent policy wins, the importance of consistency among O&P organizations, and the ongoing push for patient-centered approaches.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, recorded live at the 50th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Chicago, we continue our conversation with Gloria Lee, MSPO, CPO, an instructor at Northwestern University Prosthetics Orthotics Center in Chicago and Adrienne Hill, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, program director of Kennesaw State's O&P Master's Program. They dive into the interview process, sharing tips for O&P professionals on how to prepare for and ace their interviews, evaluate potential employers, and make the most out of every interview opportunity.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, recorded live at the 50th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Chicago, we hand over the hosting duties to Gloria Lee, an instructor at Northwestern University Prosthetics Orthotics Center in Chicago. Gloria sits down with Adrienne Hill, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, program director of Kennesaw State's O&P Master's Program, for an insightful conversation on the art of resume and cover letter writing. Dive into practical tips and expert advice on crafting a standout resume and cover letter that will propel your career in the O&P field.   This episode is sponsored by Qwadra.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, recorded live at the 50th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Chicago, we hand over the hosting duties to Nicole Walker, MS, CPO, a doctoral candidate in Rehabilitation Science at the University of Minnesota, and a board certified research prosthetist orthotist in the Minneapolis Adaptive Design & Engineering (MADE) program at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System. Nicole sits down with Fanny Schultea, MS, MSEd, CPO, LP, FAAOP(D), executive director of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research, for an engaging discussion exploring the mission of the Foundation, its impact on the O&P community, and exciting funding opportunities available. Discover how you can get involved with the Foundation and contribute to its vision for the future. Plus, gain insight into the types of groundbreaking research projects being supported by the Foundation.

In episode 14, we hand over the hosting duties to Madison Ciccaglione, a board-eligible orthotist prosthetist in northern New Jersey. Join her as she engages in a lively conversation with Eric Watters, residency program coordinator & accreditation assistant at the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education. Together, they explore the ins and outs of applying for residency, navigating the application and interview process, and the crucial aspects of advocating for the profession.

In the season 2 premier of O&P Rising, we give the hosting reins to Kierra Falbo, a research prosthetist orthotist at the Minneapolis VA and a PhD candidate at the University of Minnesota. She chats with John Brinkmann, CPO, FAAOP(D), an associate professor at Northwestern University's Prosthetics Orthotics Center in Chicago, about developing and implementing strategies to help avoid burnout in the new year.

In episode 12, we give the hosting reins to Glen Thompson, a newly certified prosthetist orthotist and regional development manager for Integrum. He chats with Cathy Carter, executive director of the American Board for Certification in orthotics, prosthetics and pedorthics, about ABC's 75th anniversary, its mission, its approach to determining patient care and organizational standards, and pivotal moments in the organization's history.

In episode 11, we continue our discussion about the publishing process with host Ariel Fortenberry, prosthetics resident at UT Southwestern. She chats with Tiffany Graham, MS, CPO, LPO, FAAOP(D), an associate professor at UT Southwestern, Prosthetics-Orthotics Department, about avenues for disseminating research outside of formal research publications and the many opportunities that open up as a result of being published.

In episode 10, we give the hosting reins to Ariel Fortenberry, prosthetics resident at UT Southwestern. She chats with Tiffany Graham, MS, CPO, LPO, FAAOP(D), an associate professor at UT Southwestern, Prosthetics-Orthotics Department, about how to begin the publication process and tips on getting your research published.

In episode 9, we give the hosting reins to Sophia Mancini, MS, MSOP, prosthetics resident at Yanke Bionics. She chats with Amandi J. Rhett, MS, CPO, LPO, an assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine, about being a catalyst for change, specifically prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility from thought to action. O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 8, we give the hosting reins to Jonah Rhymer, MPO, CPO, Clinic Manager at Ability Prosthetics and Orthotics. He chats with Kristin Carnahan, MSPO, CPO, FAAOP, a seasoned clinician and educator, about navigating challenging encounters with patients and co-workers while responding in ways that lead to healthy outcomes.

In episode 7, we give the hosting reins to Daniel Gieselman, an orthotic resident at Boston Orthotics and Prosthetics. He chats with Kris Desjardins, CPO, FAAOP(D),  a certified prosthetist and orthotist at Hanger Clinic, about partnering for success by finding a right mentor.

In episode 6, we give the hosting reins to Macy Oteri, a certified prosthetist-orthotic resident at AlliedOP. She chats with Jim Wynne, CPO, FAAOP, vice president and resident director at Boston Orthotics & Prosthetics, about how to make the most of your O&P residency.  A special thank you to our episode sponsor, Spinal Technology. This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 5, we give the hosting reins to Tyler Cagle, a prosthetics-orthotics graduate student at UT Southwestern in Dallas. He chats with Nina Bondre, CPO, FAAOP, a certified prosthetist orthotist and MBA candidate at The Wharton School, about the importance of a personal brand in the O&P profession. 

In episode 4, we give the hosting reins to Nicolette Chamberlain-Simon, a certified prosthetist/orthotist with Synergy Prosthetics and incoming O&P iQ Director. She chats with Fanny Schultea, MS, MSED, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, assistant professor in the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program at Baylor College of Medicine, about O&P iQ - the most current, comprehensive, and reliable resource for relevant evidence to support clinical care and practice in Orthotics and Prosthetics rehabilitation. This episode was recorded live at The Academy's 2023 Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Nashville.  Show notes To access O&P iQ, visit here: https://opiq.oandp.org/ This episode is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 3, we give the hosting reins to Emma Newland, a board-eligible orthotist and current prosthetics resident. She chats with Stephen Fletcher, CPO, director of professional credentialing at the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics, about preparing for various O&P exams.  This episode is sponsored by Ottobock.   Show notes This series is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 2, we give the hosting reins to Ciera Price, a research orthotist prosthetist at The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine. She  chats with Phil Stevens, MEd, CPO, FAAOP, director of clinical and scientific affairs at Hanger Clinic, about what it takes to create and deliver a great presentation in the O&P community.  This episode is sponsored by Ottobock.   Show notes This series is produced by Association Briefings.

In our inaugural episode, we give the hosting reins to Glen Thompson, certified prosthetist and orthotist at Rise Prosthetics and Orthotics. He chats with Jared Howell, MS, CPO/L, FAAOP, about the importance of networking and mentorship in the O&P industry. 

The American Academy of Orthotists & Prosthetists presents O&P Rising, hosted by rising O&P professionals offering candid insights from seasoned O&P professionals on topics that are relevant to those interested in starting out on the right foot when it comes to a career in O&P. Check out the trailer for season one!