PT Pintcast - Physical Therapy

Hear from the storytellers behind LAMP's TED-style leadership session at CSM 2026. These PTs aren't just talking about leadership—they're living it through deeply personal stories of rediscovery, burnout recovery, and professional pivots.????️ Hear from:Jennifer Green-Wilson on how passion fuels transformationSean Bagbey on mental health and leadershipJohn Corcoran on finding influence outside the traditional pathKristin Walls on self-leadership and reclaiming your identityLori Pearlmutter and Susan Lukens on sustainability, connection, and growth???? TED-Style Session Info: Thursday, Feb 12 · 2:00–3:30 PM at APTA CSM 2026???? Why Listen: Whether you're a new grad, student, or seasoned PT, these stories will remind you why you started and help you lead from within.

What happens when physical therapists decide the clinic isn't the finish line — it's the starting point? In this roundtable discussion, Lindsay, Kelly, and Todd dive into how PTs can lead from any position — whether you're a student, a staff clinician, or in the C-suite.They get real about imposter syndrome, leadership guilt, CSM session picks, and why bringing your own chair to the table might be the most powerful move of your career.In This Episode:3 signs you're ready for a leadership roleWhen guilt hits after leaving the clinic — and what to do with itHow the Army fast-tracks growth in PTsTips for picking the right CSM sessionsWhy you're more ready than you think to leadSponsors:???? Pre-Roll: Brooks IHL – brooksihl.org⚙️ Mid-Roll: Empower EMR – empoweremr.com???? End-Roll: U.S. Physical Therapy – usph.com

Larry Benz, John Childs, and Tim Flynn join Jimmy to tackle some of the most urgent—and uncomfortable—questions in physical therapy. Are we educating students into a broken system? LINK TO THEIR LATEST ARTICLELINK TO LARRY'S SUBSTACKWhy do most PTs say they wouldn't want their kids to become PTs? And what would it take to fix this before the next generation gives up?From the burden of tuition to the unintended consequences of accreditation rigidity, this episode pulls no punches. It's a high-stakes conversation with voices that have shaped PT education, and who believe it's time to reshape it again.Topics Discussed:The unsustainable cost of DPT educationWhy hybrid programs faced institutional resistanceWhat accreditation bodies are getting wrongHow young entrepreneurs might save the professionThe question every PT should ask: "Would I want my kids to do this?"Featured Guests:Larry Benz — Confluent HealthDr. John Childs — South CollegeDr. Tim Flynn — Evidence in Motion

Physical therapists are short on time, long on complaints, and totally missing the point: we're in an attention economy. In this episode, Jimmy and the crew dive into:How RTM is "free money" and still ignoredWhat ESPN's ridiculous programming can teach PT clinicsCrossFit, Peloton, and OrangeTheory as models for gamifying outcomesWhy most CSM booths are $20,000 toiletsClinic competition, trivia-style leaderboards, and The Floor is Lava: Medicare EditionThis isn't about hype. It's about attention, strategy, and clinical creativity. Want to build the PT profession's Savannah Bananas? This episode's your blueprint.CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro: The Attention Economy in PT 04:22 RTM Is Free Money (But No One Uses It) 09:45 What We Can Steal From ESPN 8: The Ocho 14:36 Clinic Games & CrossFit Leaderboards 19:52 The Real ROI of CSM Booths 26:11 Medicare Edition: The Floor is Lava 31:22 Alternative Halftime Shows & Fake Game Testing 36:44 Clinic vs Clinic: Building a PT Leaderboard 43:00 Final Thoughts: Outrun the Bear, Not the PackLINKS & RESOURCES:Subscribe to the show: https://ptpintcast.com/subscribeFollow Jimmy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmymcpt/More episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast

This episode will challenge how you think about rehab, performance, and your role as a PT.Vikash Sharma — founder of Perfect Stride Physical Therapy and Running for Life — lays out a powerful argument: PTs are perfectly positioned to lead the health ecosystem, but most are playing way too small. He explains why strength training is non-negotiable for runners (and humans), how to treat beyond the injury, and the mindset shift new grads need.???? Hot topics:Rehab = PerformanceWhy runners must lift (and how PTs are failing them)How to build client trust through adaptabilityThe “hospitality” lens of patient careHis go-to book recs for mindset + communication???? Mentioned:Unreasonable Hospitality by Will GuidaraA New Earth by Eckhart Tolle???? SPONSORS???? PRE-ROLL: Brooks IHL – world-class residencies & fellowships → https://brooksihl.org????️ MID-ROLL: EMPOWER EMR – fast, flexible, PT-designed software → https://empoweremr.com????️ END-ROLL: U.S. Physical Therapy – build your PT career → https://usph.com

Most clinics say they need "more marketing."But what they actually need is a plan that works.Andrea Cheney is a healthcare strategist who's spent 20 years leading in-house teams and advising growth-stage companies. In this episode, she teams up with Jimmy to break down what doesn't work in healthcare marketing—and what actually moves the needle.???? Key Moments:The real job of marketing (hint: it's not social media)How to build a message that lands with patients AND hiresWhat C-suite leaders get wrong about digital strategyThe trap of thinking marketing = contentWhy most email campaigns fail before they even sendAndrea also shares:How to audit your clinic's brand signals in under 5 minutesWhen to bring in creative help vs in-houseHow clinics should (and shouldn't) think about AI in 2026???? Mic Drop Moment: "Don't send an email just to send an email."

Dr. Lisa Flexner — educator, leader, and founder of Flex Health Consulting. Catch her at CSM 2026 delivering three sessions on workplace culture, substance use in patients, and weight bias in PT.This episode covers:Why clinic culture is the #1 retention toolHow to stop blaming clinicians for system problemsWhat PTs must understand about patients using cannabis, opioids, and psilocybinHow weight stigma harms health outcomes — and how to have the conversation rightGuest Info:Website: FlexHealthConsulting.comLinkedIn: Lisa FlexnerCSM 2026 Sessions:OK Boomer, Meet Gen Z – Generational culture clash in PT teamsAll Your Patients Are on Drugs – TED-style session on patient substance useA Weighty Matter – How weight stigma affects outcomes and cliniciansSponsor Shoutouts:Pre-Roll: Brooks IHL — Turn good clinicians into great ones: brooksihl.orgMid-Roll: Empower EMR — AI-powered workflows to give you time back: empoweremr.comPre-Parting Shot: US Physical Therapy — Practice with purpose: usph.com

Scott Chesney's life changed forever at 15 when a spinal stroke left him paralyzed. But that was only the beginning of his journey. In this inspiring episode, Scott joins Jimmy to share:How he navigated grief, anger, and acceptanceThe transformational power of physical therapyWhy permission to feel is a crucial healing stepWhat happened the day he walked across burning coals at a Tony Robbins seminar—on his handsHow Deepak Chopra helped him look inward, while Robbins pushed him outwardWhy he believes he's not done walking—literallyScott's story isn't just about disability—it's about rediscovering your purpose, trusting your heart, and refusing to be defined by limits.???? Listen now and be prepared to rethink resilience.Connect with Scott Here: https://scottchesney.com/

Former Top 10 Pro Athlete → Neuroscientist → Startup FounderDr. Jo Shattuck's journey is wild: from cleaning carpets while living in a camper… to becoming a world-ranked athlete, then a neuroscience PhD, and now the founder of PantherTec. In this episode, Jo breaks down how we've been teaching movement wrong — and what proprioception, kinesthetic dissonance, and wearable tech have to do with fixing it.???? Learn how PantherTec's CAT device is helping athletes, patients, and clinicians unlock real body awareness — not just motion but meaning.???? Topics Covered:What proprioception really is (and why most people don't train it)Why your “internal body model” determines performance and safetyHow kinesthetic dissonance is changing rehab and movement coachingThe limits of verbal cues and video — and why “feel” matters moreHow PantherTec's tech is creating ah-ha moments in just minutesThe true cost of wasted reps — and how to eliminate themPlus: chainsaw stories, social proprioception, black panthers, and one killer parting shot???? Clinicians, athletes, coaches — if you've ever said "they just don't get it" during a session, this episode is your wake-up call.

Episode Title: Ryan Eder: Virtual PT With Real OutcomesGuest: Ryan Eder, Founder – Laina HealthWhat You'll Learn:Why healthcare leaders care about completion rates and engagementHow virtual PT at Laina Health is outperforming traditional careWhat every PT student should know about the next decade of care deliveryHow to talk to systems, payers, and investors in their language???? Metrics That Matter:60% completion vs national avg of 30%68% pain reduction across thousands of cases$450 avg cost per episode = up to 70% savingsNear-zero wait time for evals???? Parting Shot:“Let's stop protecting the past and start preparing for the future.”

This episode of PT Pintcast brings together the crew behind the PT Breakfast Club — Tony Maritato, Dave Kittle, and Jimmy McKay — for an unfiltered roundtable on the state of the profession.What starts as a conversation about PT burnout quickly unpacks into the deeper issues fueling the fire: unrealistic expectations, outdated business models, weak Medicare reimbursement, and a profession still stuck in legacy mindsets.Expect sarcasm, solutions, and some hard truths — plus some good-natured ribbing and a few rants on clipboards, compliance, and the alphabet soup of regulations.In this episode:Why burnout is worse than ever — and no, it's not just about too many patientsThe real role of APTA (and what PTs think it should be)Why it might be time to stop chasing insurance moneyWhat happens when good therapists leave the system entirely???? Links & Resources:Tony Maritato's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MedicareBillingDave Kittle's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thedavekittleshow/featured

In this episode, Jimmy sits down with CJ Morrow—licensed PT and health tech leader—to explore the evolving role of AI in rehab. From demystifying compliance to explaining how AI can become your new thought partner, this conversation is loaded with insights for any PT navigating the future of care.Topics Covered:– The 6 Types of Working Genius and team synergy– Why tech resistance is really about billing & complexity– Compliance isn't a roadblock—it's a swim lane– How PTs are training the future of AI– First step to using AI in your clinic this week– What the rise of automation really means for PTs

This episode dives into healthcare leadership, clinician burnout, and what actually creates thriving clinical cultures. Jimmy sits down with Hollie Cunningham — a PT who now splits her time between treating patients and reshaping how clinics support their teams. From early warning signs of burnout to practical ways to engage PT students and new grads, this is your playbook for building a culture that lasts.In This Episode:Why burnout often shows up as disengagement firstHow to support clinicians without micromanagingWhat PT students should ask in job interviewsThe red flags of fake DEI programsWhy consistent mentorship beats unlimited Con EdGame Segment: "Culture Check: Red Flag or Green Flag?"Parting Shot: “Everyone wants to be seen, heard, and understood.”

Clinics are growing — but staff are leaving. Burnout is peaking. And your cash flow might be bleeding out.In this episode, Jimmy breaks down the brand new 2026 Rehab Therapy Industry Report — based on data from 550+ outpatient practices — to answer the big questions:Why are 80% of PTs considering leaving the profession?What do high-growth clinics do differently to thrive in this economy?How are automation and AI changing clinic survival and staff retention?What behavior patterns predict burnout and audit risk?And what one thing you should fix first.???? This is the State of the Union for rehab therapy — packed with insights clinic owners, directors, and providers can't afford to ignore.

Why are some physical therapy clinics thriving while others struggle to stay full? Dr. Jared Cooper doesn't just run a successful private-pay clinic — he teaches PTs how to break free from insurance dependency, master pricing psychology, and use content to drive patient commitment before they ever walk through the door.We cover:How to design a clinic that works for YOUPricing strategies that beat the copay gameWhy most clinic owners get stuck trying to scaleCreating content that actually builds trust & conversionsWhat PTs can learn from Disney, Facebook, and mailboxesThis one is brutally honest, practical, and made to help clinic owners stop winging it and start scaling with intention.

Owen Campbell left the corporate world to build his PT practice from the trunk of his car. Now he's helping other clinicians turn business dreams into real growth.In this episode, we unpack:Why PTs actually make great business owners (but were never taught how)Why most burnout has nothing to do with patient loadHow to build a business mindset (without an MBA)What makes growth possible — and worth itGuest: Owen CampbellCo-founder of Physio Growth@thephysiogrowthguys | https://www.physio-growth.comResources Mentioned:Crucial Conversations (Book)Alex Hormozi (Follow)Sponsored By:Brooks IHL – Ready to level up clinically? World-class residencies and mentorship at https://www.brooksihl.orgEmpower EMR – Built by PTs, for PTs. Clean workflows, better notes, faster documentation at https://www.empoweremr.comU.S. Physical Therapy (USPh) – Grow your clinic or career without giving up your identity: https://usph.com

Jimmy & Tony go off-script on this special snow day edition of the PT Breakfast Club. From Graham Sessions insights to content strategy and the realities of PT business in 2026, this one's a must-listen.Topics Covered:Primary care PT definitionsBranding breakdowns in physical therapyReflections on Graham SessionsHow Jimmy is creating 365 podcast episodes in 365 daysSocial media frequency vs reach (Meta data deep dive)Why PTs need to take action, not just talkThe “You're the Boat” philosophy and its practical implications

In this powerful Graham Sessions sit-down, first-time attendee Alex Bendersky, PT, MBA, gets real about risk, readiness, and the trillion-dollar opportunity in MSK care. From surviving the Medicare cap crash of 2002 to forecasting the next existential threats to PT, Alex challenges the profession to evolve beyond survival.We dig into:What resilience actually looks like for private practiceWhy waiting for change is a losing strategyHow to capture untouched markets in MSKWhat you're doing wrong with risk-based careThe trillion-dollar pie that's still on the table????Live from APTA Private Practice Graham Sessions

Eric Robertson is back, live from Graham Sessions, and he's not pulling punches. In this bold and brutally honest conversation, Eric challenges the PT residency model, calls out systemic disconnects in education, and shares a roadmap for fixing it all — with brains, leverage, and a little bit of woo.???? Want to build better clinicians after graduation????? Ready to leverage collective power like dentists and IPAs????? Wondering why education and business still operate in silos?This episode is loaded with smart ideas and spicy solutions for the future of the profession.???? TIMESTAMPS & CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Jimmy + Eric back on the mic01:00 – What Graham Sessions gets right about idea sharing02:30 – Collective bargaining, leverage & mega-groups in PT04:40 – Lessons from dentistry and managed care06:10 – Why autonomy isn't the same as isolation08:00 – Education & business are not separate universes09:30 – The big disconnect between DPT programs and real-world readiness12:00 – Can PT education learn from art school?13:30 – Redesigning residencies with clinic-defined values15:00 – Reimagining post-grad training at scale (not just residencies)17:00 – The pending Grad PLUS loan crisis18:20 – Why separating education from business is a mistake20:00 – StrengthsFinder, spreadsheets, and leaning into your superpowers22:00 – PARTING SHOT: “I want to wreck the accreditation model for residency.”

Lisa VanHoose & Rebekah Griffith on Why PTs Must Lead, Not WaitLive from Graham Sessions, Jimmy sits down with two of the boldest voices in PT:Dr. Lisa VanHoose, PT, PhD, MPH, Professor & Program Director at the University of Louisiana MonroeDr. Rebekah Griffith, The ED DPT, expert in Emergency Department Physical TherapyTopics covered:Why the PT profession is stuck in a burning buildingSubpar care, imposter syndrome, and employee mindsetsPrimary care PT and the problem with 83-word definitionsWhy marketing isn't enough—you have to BE the changeSpicy Graham Sessions takes about DEI, generational gaps, and leveling up

Live from APTA HQ at Graham Sessions, Jimmy sits down with David Harris, CEO of PRO~PT Physical Therapy. With over two decades in the profession and leadership roles at Ivy, Spear, and now PRO~PT, David brings deep insight into how physical therapy needs to evolve.They cover:What's getting in our own way as a professionHow to actually message MSK and primary care to the publicBringing AI and scribe tools into a 120-clinician organizationWins over the last 15 years (Direct Access, DPT, policy wins)Leadership tips for clinic owners and execs

In this live episode from APTA's Graham Sessions, Jimmy sits down with Steven Coen — CEO of SaRA Health — to talk about the untapped power of Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM). Steven explains how most clinics are already doing 90% of the work — but not getting paid for it. Learn why naming your RTM program matters, how text messages can save lives, and what the new CMS Access program means for the future of value-based rehab.What You'll Learn:What RTM really is (and isn't)How to increase plan of care completionWhy branding your patient communication program mattersWhere CMS is heading with value-based PT paymentHow one simple text saved a patient's life post-opGuest:???? Steven Coen, CEO of SaRA Health???? www.sarahealth.com???? steven@sarahealth.com

Josh Funk, PT from Rehab 2 Perform, joins Jimmy live from Graham Sessions to talk about:How communication drives clinical and business successWhen to delegate your brand messagingWhy PTs need to master CAC, ROAS, and internal vs. external languageHow clarity can fuel growth — and bigger paychecksYou'll learn what Rehab 2 Perform did at 4 clinics that set them up to scale — and what most practices overlook when it comes to marketing.GUEST LINKSWebsite: https://rehab2perform.com

Two clinicians from different worlds, one vision for the future of rehab. At Graham Sessions, Jimmy sits down with Ali Hartman, DPT and CrossFit enthusiast, and Bethany Ayer, OT and AI strategist, for a wide-ranging conversation about burnout, purpose, and rebuilding the systems we work in.TAKEAWAYS INCLUDE:Why prevention and performance still don't get the spotlight in PTWhat AI is actually doing in healthcare (not the hype)“Conversion factor” of effort vs reward in today's clinicWhy doing well and doing good shouldn't be either/orBorrowing solutions from other professions (yes, even engineers!)???? Featured Guests:???? Ali Hartman, DPTFocus: Prevention, industrial wellness, CrossFit, performance???? Bethany Ayer, OTR/L, MBAClinical Sales LeadBackground in EMR strategy, AI, OT clinical practice

Philip Goldsmith, PT, MSPT, EMT, DScPT, is the President of APTA Home Health and a clinical expert in home health care. He joins Jimmy LIVE from APTA Private Practice's Graham Sessions for a candid conversation on:Why physical therapists aren't practicing at the top of their licenseHow home health is leading innovation in PTThe psychology of “permission-seeking” in our professionA revolutionary CEU opportunity — on a cruise shipWhat Graham Sessions is (and isn't) talking about yetThe legacy PTs can leave when they own their full scope???? Learn more about “ACHH at Sea” → https://aptahomehealth.org

Jimmy chats with Patrick Graham — one of the three co-founders and namesake of the Graham Sessions — about the evolution of the event, the ideas that have shaped physical therapy, and what the future holds as the 20th anniversary approaches.From confidentiality to boldness, Patrick unpacks what makes the Graham Sessions unlike any other gathering in healthcare.KEY DISCUSSIONS INCLUDE:The purpose and rules of the Graham SessionsWhy some ideas last and others fadeWhat PTs can learn from dentistryHow education and tech are reshaping the professionThe importance of asking the right questionQUOTABLE:“Ask the question. That's where every big idea starts.”

In this special episode recorded live at Graham Sessions, Jimmy talks with clinic owner Mike Reing and Marymount University DPT Dean Skye Donovan about what's broken in the profession — and what it'll take to fix it.You'll hear:Why clinic owners are frustrated with declining reimbursementHow to actually hire and retain new gradsThe divide (and opportunity) between academics and businessWhat PT education needs to teach that it currently doesn'tWhy optimism still matters — and how to find itWhether you're a student, academic, or clinic owner, this conversation hits on the real tension — and the real possibilities — in PT today.???? Resources & LinksMarymount DPT Program: https://marymount.eduUSPH Careers: https://usphcareers.comBrooks IHL: https://brooksihl.orgEmpower EMR: https://www.empoweremr.com????️ Sponsors:Pre-Roll: Empower EMR → “Upgrade your clinic's brain with EMPOWER EMR. Better notes, smoother workflows, and support that doesn't ghost you.” → https://www.empoweremr.comMid-Roll: U.S. Physical Therapy → “Leadership tracks, mentorship, and career growth — all in a national network built for PTs.” → https://usph.comPre-Parting Shot: Brooks IHL → “Residencies, fellowships, and CE that shape better clinicians — not just give you letters.” → https://brooksihl.org

Jason takes us hole-by-hole through life as a PT on the PGA Tour. From Augusta's Amen Corner to the Olympic Games, he shares the day-to-day demands, the team behind the players, and how data, recovery, and PT have fused into elite golf performance.Topics Covered:How Jason landed his first gig in pro golfManaging recovery for 100,000+ swings/yearWhat separates a good PT from a tour-level PTBalancing ambition with patience in a sports careerThe role of wearable tech (Whoop) and HRVGolfers + AI + Performance stats = The futureResources Mentioned:Profiles in Audacity (book)Huberman Lab PodcastLex Fridman PodcastJoe Rogan / Theo Von for downtimeShirley Sahrmann's Movement SystemsShoutouts:PT Team: Corey Hugg, Digby Watt, Chris O'Neill, Jason Waddles, Johnny Eichner, Kyle Yamashiro, Frank WangPGA, Korn Ferry, Champions Tours coverage team???? HERO Clip Moment (for Reels, Shorts, TikTok, etc.)???? Topic: The Real Reason Recovery Matters More Than Ever on Tour???? Ideal Soundbite Setup:“So we started looking at things like HRV… and we realized, maybe it's not how they train, but how they recover that explains their Sunday score.”???? Host Prompt:“Jason, you mentioned you're tracking HRV and linking that to scoring — can you break down what you're seeing there and how recovery plays into performance now more than ever?”Clip this around 23–27 min mark — it's visual, quantifiable, and deeply relevant to both PTs and athletes.???? Thumbnail Concept (Visual Hook for YouTube)Text on Screen:“Inside Pro Golf PT” (top)“100,000 Swings. 1 PT Team.” (bottom, bold)Visuals:???? Split image: Jason in front of the PGA trailer + iconic Amen Corner backdrop???? Overlay: “HRV | Recovery | Scoring Data”Bright green/blue tones for golf + clean white text for visibilityMake sure Jason's face is visible and smiling — credibility + trust.???? Subscriber Promo Text (Add to Descriptions / Posts)???? Love this episode? Don't miss what's next!???? Follow PT Pintcast for stories from the frontlines of physical therapy — clinic, field, and tour life.▶️ YouTube: @PTPintcast???? Apple: PT Pintcast on Apple Podcasts???? Spotify: PT Pintcast on Spotify???? IG: @ptpintcast???? Website: www.ptpintcast.comLet me know if you'd like me to mock up the thumbnail design or help clip out that HERO moment next — ready when you are! ????????

Clinical skills can take years to sharpen. But without trust, connection, and communication, you might never get the chance to use them.In this episode, Matt Glassoff throws a curveball at traditional PT training with a powerful take: if you can't connect with people, your skills don't matter. He breaks down what real patient rapport looks like, how to lead with empathy, and why this message is more important now than ever.???? Topics Covered:Why patients care more about you than your techniquesHow to build trust quickly and authenticallyMistakes Matt made early on — and what he learnedActionable ways to develop human connection in healthcare

Lauren Young has a message for every PT who feels stuck in a broken model: stop asking permission and start building your exit.In this episode, Jimmy talks with neuro powerhouse Lauren Young about the real reasons PTs are burned out, how to take your first steps toward business ownership, and why it's time to stop being a “bleeding heart” and start building margin so you can stay in the game.✅ We talk:Neuro PT in the cash-pay worldWhy Lauren said “no” to higher-paying offersCharging for real value, not CEUsThe one step to take if you feel stuckPlaying “Clinical Rebel or Business Boss”Links:Follow Lauren: @neuroeliteptSponsor: EmpowerEMR.comJoin the community: ptpintcast.comParting Shot:“Be the PT you'd want treating your parents — clinically and financially.”

Dr. Marla Ranieri, PT, DPT — healthcare innovator, tech leader, and physical therapist reimagining the professionSome PT advice has expired — and Marla Ranieri is here to delete it.In this rapid-fire, forward-looking finale to PT Pintcast LIVE @ APTA NJ, Marla lays out how AI and tech are transforming physical therapy, what students must stop believing, and the exact question they should ask before joining any clinic. She also shares a personal story about her family's 20+ surgeries — and how it shaped her mission.???? Topics Covered:What PT students need to unlearn in 2026How tech and AI are creating better patient careRed flags in job interviews for new gradsThe biggest clinic lies hiding behind “innovation”Her personal why — and what it's taught her???? Sponsored by:US Physical Therapy — Leadership, mentorship, and careers designed for clinicians. https://usph.comResume Buzzword Generator Pro™ — Fake sponsor. Real synergy.

“If you're not making decisions about tech in your clinic… someone else is.”Sharif Zeid returns to the Pintcast to talk about the AI wave, automation, and why PT clinics need more leadership — not more software. This episode peels back the hype and hits the reality: you either adapt, or you get buried in admin, inefficiency, and turnover.Topics include:Why AI ≠ robots taking your jobHow smart automation actually looks in practiceThe mindset shift needed for modern clinic leadersWhy “doing nothing” is the most expensive optionTech, culture, and the systems that scale???? Guest & Tools:Sharif Zeid → EmpowerEMR.com????️ Sponsor Mentions:PRE-ROLL: Empower EMRBig thanks to Empower EMR. If your clinic is stuck in an EMR that slows you down, Empower gives you speed, clean workflows, and features PTs actually asked for. Better notes, faster documentation, smoother operations — all wrapped in customer support that doesn't ghost you. → empoweremr.comMID-ROLL: Brooks IHLShoutout to Brooks IHL. If you're thinking residency, fellowship, or just want deeper clinical mastery, Brooks IHL has programs that actually shape better clinicians — not just give you letters. → brooksihl.orgPRE-PARTING SHOT: U.S. Physical TherapyToday's episode is supported by U.S. Physical Therapy — a national network of clinics focused on developing clinicians, not burning them out. Leadership tracks, mentorship, career growth, and the stability to build your future in PT. If you want a place that supports how YOU want to practice, that's USPH. → usph.com

Neuro PT still intimidates too many students — and Brooke Pantano is done with that. She's on a mission to demystify neuro, advocate for better education, and lift the standards (literally and figuratively) for what PTs can do.In this live episode from APTA NJ's Student Conclave, she shares how residency challenged everything she learned in school, what neuro really looks like in the clinic, and how strength training has made her a better clinician.Topics Covered:Why neuro needs more early-career PTsWhat surprised her most during residencyWhat students get wrong about dizziness, concussions, and spinal cord injuryHow to balance advocacy, education, and still lift heavy thingsHer personal message to every student nervous about neuroSponsored by:US Physical Therapy — Build your career with mentorship, leadership tracks, and support that puts PTs first. https://usph.comTENS Unit Therapy School™ — Fake sponsor, very real electrical currents

Sharif Zeid joins Jimmy to unpack the true root causes of clinic burnout, wasted revenue, and team frustration. Spoiler: it's not your EMR, and it's not “kids these days.” It's the manual, outdated, or bloated processes you're too busy to see.Learn:How tracking too many metrics slows your teamWhere most clinics lose time (and don't know it)What automation actually changes firstWhy your team's happiness is your best KPIHow to spot "noise" and double down on "signal"???? Resources:Sharif Zeid → EmpowerEMR.comFollow PT Pintcast on all platforms: YouTube, Apple, Spotify & more????️ Sponsor Mentions:PRE-ROLL: Brooks IHLWorld-class residencies, fellowships, and CE designed to turn good clinicians into great ones. Their mentors walk the walk. Check out Brooks IHL and see how far you can go → brooksihl.orgMID-ROLL: Empower EMRBig thanks to Empower EMR. If your clinic is stuck in an EMR that slows you down, Empower gives you speed, clean workflows, and features PTs actually asked for. Better notes, faster documentation, smoother operations — all wrapped in customer support that doesn't ghost you. → empoweremr.com

What do HVAC techs, dentists, and high-performing PTs have in common? Turns out, they're all using AI tools to level up how they communicate, evaluate, and deliver results.In this raw, honest conversation, Jimmy, Dave, and Tony break down how PTs can reframe “sales” as clinical confidence, why recording evaluations might be the best training tool we're ignoring, and how this tech is already reshaping onboarding, CPGs, and practice growth.???? Topics Covered:Why PTs struggle with "sales" (and what to say instead)Real-time eval reviews + audio feedback loopsCPG updates driven by tech & documentationHow other industries train better, fasterGraham Sessions preview: questions that matter???? LINKS:Dave Kittle – Concierge Pain ReliefTony Maritato – YouTube ChannelPT Pintcast YouTube???? Subscribe & Follow:Apple: PT Pintcast on Apple PodcastsSpotify: PT Pintcast on SpotifyYouTube: PT Pintcast YouTubeLinkedIn: Jimmy McKayWebsite: ptpintcast.com

Mercedes didn't wait a decade to “earn” the right to start her business — she built it early, with clarity and confidence.In this episode recorded live at APTA NJ's Student Conclave, she shares her journey from Argentina to building a mobile pediatric PT practice in the U.S. We dive into why mobile care works, what it takes to build trust, and how to overcome the imposter syndrome that holds so many new grads back.???? Topics Covered:Starting a business early in your PT careerHow Mercedes built trust with families as a new gradThe surprising advantages (and hard truths) of mobile careWhat makes pediatric PT deeply rewardingOne message for every student who thinks they “aren't ready”???? Sponsored by:U.S. Physical Therapy — Build your future in PT with a company that supports clinicians. https://usph.comThe Student Loan Fairy™ — Fake sponsor, real pain

Students are taught to treat injury — but Melanie Llanes built her business on preventing it. From her start as a PTA to becoming a pelvic health powerhouse, Melanie shares how she shaped her career, faced burnout, and built a business that prioritizes people before they break.Topics Covered:What every student misunderstands about prevention in PTMelanie's transition from PTA to PT to entrepreneurWhy pelvic health deserves a front seat in PT educationPowerlifting, parenting, and professional resilienceWhat nearly made her quit — and why she stayedSponsored by:EMPOWER EMR — Built by PTs, for PTs. https://empoweremr.comPosture Tape That Fixes Everything™ — Fake sponsor, real sarcasm

This episode features one of the most raw, real, and insightful convos we've had on the future of physical therapy.Jimmy sits down with Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato to cover everything clinic owners need to hear right now:Why PTs are still trapped in outdated reimbursement modelsHow to build a cash-based membership that actually worksSliding into DMs to recruit A+ hiresEMRs that suck (and why they still do)The real problem with AI in healthcareWhy some PT leaders still won't talk about what matters mostIf you've ever yelled at your EMR, questioned your payer mix, or thought about quitting insurance cold turkey — this one's for you.

Why PTs Burn Out: A Raw Look at Rewards, Pressure & the ProfessionEpisode Summary:What's really burning out today's physical therapists? In this episode, Jimmy chats with Dr. Rebekah Griffith — aka the EDDPT — about why PTs are questioning the reward system, the cost of conferences that don't deliver, and why "no one wants to work anymore" might not be the real issue. From Graham Sessions to predatory conferences, manual therapy in acute care, and redefining value in the profession — this one hits hard and goes deep.???? Whether you're a student, new grad, clinic owner, or educator, this conversation challenges the status quo and leaves you asking: Is the juice worth the squeeze?00:00 - Cold Open & Welcome03:12 - The “Elite Secret Job” Recruitment Rant06:20 - Predatory Journals & Conferences Explained11:40 - The Hustle Game in Academic Publishing15:55 - Conference Time Limits vs. Content Quality22:10 - What Makes Graham Sessions Different?29:20 - Why "Cool Kid Tables" Need More Chairs34:00 - Practicing at the Top of Your Scope37:42 - Tactics vs. Complaints: What PT Needs More Of43:05 - Shark Tank for PT Ideas?47:00 - Jimmy's Radio Wisdom: Tight. Bright. Informative.49:15 - Rebekah's Parting Shot: People Want to Work, If It's Worth It

What's the fastest way for a PT student to make real change?In this high-energy live episode from APTA NJ's Student Conclave, veteran PT and fearless advocate Doula Riley shares the raw truth about regulation, career growth, and why now is the time for students to get involved — especially in election years.Doula has worked nearly every PT setting… and survived mechanical bulls in multiple states. This convo blends serious insight with student-centered advice, career clarity, and just enough chaos to keep it Pintcast-approved.???? Guest: Doula Riley, PT, advocate and clinical trailblazerYou'll learn:What most students misunderstand about PT regulationWhy policy matters more in election yearsThe #1 easiest way to advocate todayRed flags and real talk from someone who's seen it all

Physical therapy is having a moment — and not all of it is comfortable.In this episode, Jimmy McKay breaks down a growing debate around PT salary, burnout, career growth, and work ethic, sparked by posts from veteran physical therapist Rob Panariello.Rob argues that success in physical therapy comes from exceptional effort, clinical excellence, and personal responsibility — a framework that built many successful careers.But newer physical therapists are asking a different question: Does hard work still reliably convert into opportunity in today's healthcare system?This episode explores:Why PT salaries feel stagnantHow student loan debt changes career mathWhere hard work still compounds — and where it doesn'tWhy this isn't a generational fightAnd what needs to change to retain great cliniciansThis isn't a rant.It's a translation — between effort and incentives, experience and reality.

What does it really mean to advocate as a physical therapist — and where should students start?In this live episode recorded at APTA New Jersey's Student Conclave at Kean University, Ben Aguila pulls back the curtain on what actually happens inside the APTA House of Delegates. He shares how clinic owners can stay grassroots while thinking globally, how students can plug into real change, and why the best things in your career might start as accidents.Topics Covered:What happens in the APTA House of DelegatesWhy advocacy matters — and who's doing it rightHow Ben ended up running a half marathon by accidentThe real entry point for students into leadershipPolicy changes PT education needs nowSponsored by:Brooks IHL — World-class residencies, fellowships, and continuing education: https://brooksihl.orgMechanical Bulls R Us™ — Fake sponsor, real core engagement

Clinic owners: your costs are rising, your reimbursements aren't. So how do you protect your margins? In this episode, Jimmy chats with Joseph Lowe, a former PT turned rehab retail expert. Joseph reveals how clinics can generate $30K–$40K a year in retail revenue — without selling out or adding visit volume.They cover:Why “profit margin” should be your #1 KPIThe easiest products for PTs to sellHow your sunk costs can become scalable revenueWhy retail is the future for sustainable practice growth???? Joseph's prediction?Someone will land a seven-figure product partnership. And it could be you.

Most PTs were taught to treat in 60-minute chunks. But what if the real value isn't in the time... but the outcome?In this episode, Jimmy sits down with Tony Maritato and Dave Kittle to unpack how physical therapists can stop marketing “minutes” and start delivering results. They dive into shorter sessions, clinic models, live selling, CEU partnerships, and the massive potential of selling outcomes over time.Plus: a brainstorm on flipping leftover clinic time into high-converting, half-off offers. Think Groupon, but smarter — and built for PT.If you're a clinic owner, cash-based therapist, or entrepreneurial rehab pro… this is your roadmap to thinking like a modern healthcare business.

Why aren't physical therapists paid like doctors — even though the outcomes prove they should be?In this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy sits down with Josh Bailey, PT, to unpack the uncomfortable truth about reimbursement, CPT codes, employer contracting, and why physical therapy keeps getting boxed into time-based billing instead of value-based care.Josh shares:Why early PT saves 50% of downstream costs — and why payers still ignore itHow CPT code 97110 commoditized physical therapyThe biggest diagnostic mistakes around plantar fasciitisWhy grit, effort, and reps matter more than credentialsAnd his mic-drop case for treating PTs like doctors — in pay, productivity, and respectThis episode is a must-listen for clinic owners, healthcare leaders, and PTs who want more than burnout and flat reimbursement.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Why PT Isn't Paid Like Medicine03:45 – Incentives, Insurance, and Misaligned Value10:30 – Why CPT Codes Limit PT's Worth17:15 – Plantar Fasciitis: What PT School Got Wrong26:45 – Effort, Grit, and the Path to Mastery35:30 – Hiring for Character Over Credentials44:50 – The Amazon Prime Lesson in Value50:35 – Parting Shot: Treat PTs Like DoctorsGuest & ResourcesJosh Bailey on LinkedIn: jbaileyptRehab Associates: https://rehabassociatesracva.comPT Management Group of Virginia: https://ptmgva.com

Dr. Steve Ryland joins Jimmy to unpack UPTA, how they're taking action to fight Medicare bureaucracy, and why burnout isn't a personal failure — it's a design flaw in the system.In this episode:Suing CMS and calling out policy contradictionsCompliance fatigue and how AI can help PTs reclaim timeBuilding a national pilot proposal with real impactResponding to APTA critics and unifying PT voicesAdvice to disillusioned new grads: “Don't wait to be rescued”

Why would a respected PT leader step back from the national stage?Dr. Janet Bezner — former CAPTE chair, academic powerhouse, and leadership voice in PT — joins Jimmy to unpack career evolution, mentorship fatigue, and how identity shifts in the next chapter.Whether you're a new grad, seasoned faculty, or clinic owner facing “what's next,” Janet offers insight into navigating transitions with purpose (and pastries ????).Janet on LINKEDIN

In this episode, Jimmy, Dave, and Tony go deep into the evolving world of physical therapy, self-pay models, and the surprising economics of "train the trainer" models — including caregivers and personal trainers stepping into rehab roles.00:00 - Intro: Coaching Caregivers & Trainers?02:35 - Why Yanni's model wouldn't work 1-on-104:30 - Train the trainer: scam or strategy?07:40 - Real-life example: training personal trainers for high net worth clients10:12 - Talking numbers: $2K–$5K for short-term consulting?13:45 - Client perception vs. price: mid-tier care model16:10 - What if the caregiver is a spouse or child?18:50 - The risk: trainers claiming to be “rehab pros”22:40 - Dave's fear: giving away your IP?26:00 - Why PTs should think like restaurants (value meals!)29:20 - Supersize it: self-pay services + product sales32:10 - Massage guns & missed revenue streams35:00 - Satire: Stim Nap™, CPT Sauce™, SuctionX™38:42 - The burnout talk: PT students losing hope41:20 - Asking for a raise the right way43:00 - Final thoughts + guest linksWe unpack:Why training caregivers or trainers might be the future of scalable PT.The real risks when unlicensed individuals start acting like rehab pros.Lifetime value of self-pay patients vs. quick-turn training models.What PTs can learn from the fast-food model: visits as value meals, and the "supersize" upsell approach.Hilarious sponsor pitches: ZapNap, CPT Sauce, and SuctionX make an appearance.Advice for PTs burned out or disillusioned with the profession.How to confidently ask for more money — and what your boss actually thinks when you do.???? Guest shoutouts:The Dave Kittle ShowTotal Therapy Solution on YouTubePT Pintcast???? Whether you're a clinic owner, employee, student, or side-hustler in PT — this one's packed with strategy, honesty, and a good dose of sarcasm.

Your marketing doesn't suck. But your strategy might.In this episode, Jimmy breaks down how to build campaigns that work — not because they're loud, but because they're smart. From bar promos and billboards to multi-channel experiences, this is a tactical deep dive into why attention is earned, not bought.Perfect for clinic owners, practice marketers, or rehab pros ready to think differently and stop throwing money at trends.???? What You'll Learn:How to reverse-engineer campaigns from the end resultWhy CMOs and CEOs need “marriage counseling”What Bud Light's legendary ads got rightWhy clinics should focus less on channels and more on psychologyAnd how one outdoor campaign outperformed 20 parade floats???? Want more? Visit ptpinecast.com or follow us @ptpinecast on all socials.00:00 – Why most marketing doesn't work04:12 – Real reason patients don't respond to ads10:45 – CMO vs CEO misalignment = disaster16:33 – How to create attention without yelling22:18 – Designing campaigns backwards (start with the end)30:45 – The billboard over the parade (smart strategy)37:29 – The Maxim Contest: Bar marketing masterclass47:05 – What Bud Light did right (Real Men of Genius)53:30 – Parting shots: How to know what matters57:10 – Why value is always *perceived* value

“You don't need to be a Navy SEAL to be resilient — you just need to learn to build fire with no tools.”In this raw and wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Alex Bendersky, Head of Clinical Innovation, shares real-world lessons from complexity theory, resilience, and leadership inside modern healthcare systems.We go deep on:Why PTs must think in systems to surviveUnderstanding entropy and constant changeThe power of being "plasma" — fluid, adaptable, yet ready to solidifyGetting fired the day before turning 46 — and saying "Good."Why gratitude and self-awareness might be your sharpest toolsWhat Black Swan events mean for the future of physical therapyAlex's perspective blends deep theory with grounded clinical reality — this one's a mindset shift you didn't know you needed.⚡️ “Most of the systems that affect PTs are outside their control. But the one system you can control? The one between your ears.”???? Listen if you're a PT, clinic owner, or healthcare leader dealing with:Rapid changeDecreased reimbursementsTeam burnoutLeadership gaps???? Connect with Alex Bendersky → LinkedIn

This episode hits hard on mindset, marketing, and meaning. Jimmy and Rebekah unpack:Why playing defense is holding PTs backThe “mud pie” problem in PT communicationWhat attention has to do with valueThe real job of consultantsWhy innovators must lead — and not wait to be discoveredWhether you're a PT, clinic owner, or someone ready to go on offense in 2026, this one's a must-listen.SPONSORS:Pre-Roll:Brooks IHL — Level up your clinical game: https://brooksihl.orgMid-Roll + PSA:Empower EMR — The EMR PTs actually asked for: https://empoweremr.comTeam Gleason PSA — Supporting people with ALS.Pre-Parting Shot:U.S. Physical Therapy — Build your career with USPH: https://usph.com