PT Pintcast - Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy Is at a Turning PointRupal Patel joins PT Pintcast live from CSM to discuss why physical therapy is entering its second century — and why that means expanding our role beyond musculoskeletal care.Key Themes:Why PT is at a professional inflection pointSocial and structural determinants of healthHow zip code predicts mortalityWhy apathy is more dangerous than resistanceHow to advocate without traveling to DCEmpowering patients to advocate for themselvesThe discomfort clinicians must embrace to growRupal makes a compelling case: If PTs want better reimbursement, better access, and a sustainable future — we must advocate before frustration turns into apathy.Her parting message draws from Mahatma Gandhi: Be the change you want to see in the world.Sponsors MentionedSaRA Health – https://sarahealth.comU.S. Physical Therapy – https://usph.com

Insurance runs out. Patients still need care. Now what?Melanie Brennan built a nonprofit neuro recovery gym to solve exactly that problem.After seeing patients decline post-discharge from traditional rehab settings, Melanie launched EA Therapeutic Health — a hybrid model blending:Insurance-based PTCash-based extended recovery sessionsPersonal trainers + rec therapists alongside PTsFundraising + grants to subsidize costCommunity-based nonprofit structureNow with 24 employees and a 10,000-square-foot facility, she's proving private practice isn't just for orthopedics.Key TopicsWhy payment is PT's root issueNonprofit conversion strategyBlending insurance and cash ethicallyState-level advocacy vs national reformCollective action with OT and speechServing underserved communities sustainablyGuest InfoEA Therapeutic Health https://chooseea.org

PTs Belong in Disaster Response — Here's How to Step InDisasters don't discriminate. They impact hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, schools, and communities.Yet physical therapists are rarely included in disaster planning or emergency response operations.In this episode, Megan Mitchell breaks down:• Why disasters are increasing in frequency • Where PTs are currently underutilized • The musculoskeletal reality of disaster injuries • Why you can't “just show up” during an emergency • How to engage your hospital or clinic's emergency manager • The difference between “lessons learned” and “lessons applied” • One immediate action step every PT should takeKey Takeaway:Preparedness is part of professional responsibility. If you're licensed and trained, you already have relevant skills. The profession must proactively claim its seat at the table.Resources Mentioned• PT & PTA Emergency and Disaster Response Action Plan (APTA) • University of Colorado AnschutzSponsors• EMPOWER EMR • SaRA Health • U.S. Physical Therapy (USPH)

Most physical therapy clinic owners have been told the same story:Spend 5–10% of revenue on marketing.Run Facebook ads.Buy Google traffic.Outspend competitors.But what if that advice is wrong?Live from CSM, Jimmy and Sturdy McKee break down a back-to-basics approach to clinic growth that doesn't rely on ad spend — it relies on relationships.What You'll Learn:Why patients don't buy healthcare on FacebookHow primary care physicians see 20–40% MSK cases weeklyWhy referrals are still the most powerful growth channelHow small, consistent gestures outperform “wow baskets”The psychology behind handwritten notesWhy tracking relationships matters more than tracking ad clicksWhat clinic owners lose when growth becomes the only goalThis episode is for PTs and clinic owners who want sustainable growth without sacrificing margin or humanity.

Emergency Department PT, Top-of-Scope Mindset & Reigniting Your CareerRecorded live at CSM, Jimmy sits down with Rebekah Griffith, PT, DPT, to talk about the growth of physical therapy in the emergency department — and what it takes to bring it into your hospital.In This Episode:What “Top of Scope” really means (mindset + skillset)Why ED PT jobs aren't widespread yetHow to pitch ED PT to hospital leadership (do a PT eval on the hospital)Specialist vs generalist debate in acute careWhy conferences can reignite your professional energyHow networking creates lifelong career relationshipsRebecca shares a practical framework for introducing ED PT services:Evaluate your hospital like a patientIdentify impairments and participation restrictionsAlign PT value with what matters to leadershipSet measurable goalsThis episode is about expanding what's possible in your career — and protecting the future of the profession.SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by:SaRA HealthEMPOWER EMRU.S. Physical Therapy (USPH)

PT Is Political — And That's Not OptionalRecorded live at APTA CSM, this conversation tackles one uncomfortable truth: physical therapy operates inside a political healthcare system.If you ignore policy, reimbursement, or structural access issues, you're still affected by them.In This Episode:Why research feels intimidating (and why it shouldn't)How curiosity fuels better patient careThe policy gaps affecting farmworker communitiesWhy students must engage in health systems earlyWhat success looks like in five years for the next generation of PTsWhy This Matters for Clinic OwnersPolicy decisions shape reimbursementAccess gaps affect your patient populationAdvocacy protects long-term sustainabilityStudents entering the profession expect leadership in this spaceSponsorsSaRA HealthEMPOWER EMRU.S. Physical Therapy (USPH)

Episode OverviewLive from APTA CSM in Anaheim, Jimmy talks with Nicole O'Neill from U.S. Physical Therapy about what USPH actually is—and why most PTs don't realize they've probably seen one of their clinics.USPH partners with 135+ locally branded physical therapy practices across 44 states, providing national operational support while allowing clinics to maintain their identity.This episode breaks down what that model looks like for:New gradsExperienced cliniciansClinic owners exploring partnershipPTs who want growth without burnoutKey TopicsThe USPH partnership modelMaintaining local brand autonomyNational support for payroll, benefits, recruitingEmployer branding in physical therapyWhy USPH is investing in visibility at CSM“Grow With USPH” — what it meansAbout U.S. Physical TherapyU.S. Physical Therapy is a national network supporting local PT clinics with financial, administrative, and operational infrastructure—so clinicians can focus on patient care and leadership development.Learn more: ???? https://usph.com

Visibility Is Not Optional AnymoreIf you're a physical therapist or clinic owner relying on reputation alone, you're already behind.This episode covers:Why simple LinkedIn polls outperform complex contentThe lesson behind viral cultural momentsRepurposing one idea across multiple formatsHow AI session analytics can improve therapist performanceWhy frequency beats perfectionThe “fifth executive role” PT organizations are missing (communications)How to build earned attention instead of buying exposureKey Takeaway:Trust is built downstream of earned attention. If people don't see you, they don't trust you.Guest LinksDave KittleYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@thedavekittleshow/featuredWebsite → https://conciergepainrelief.comTony MaritatoYouTube → https://www.youtube.com/c/MedicareBilling

Can social media realistically generate revenue for physical therapists?In this episode, Jimmy talks with Tony Maritato about:Growing from 2,000 to 60,000+ followers in one yearTurning patient education into monetized contentWhy reposting “old” videos worksHow one Facebook post generated $107 repeatedlyWhy engagement (not followers) is the real metricThe shift back toward in-person, analog attentionTony explains how he captures patient interactions during treatment (with consent), posts directly from his phone, and uses AI tools to analyze performance — without hiring staff or building a production studio.If you're a clinic owner, this matters because:$2,000/month offsets overheadOrganic reach builds trust before a patient callsYou're already creating content — you're just not recording itKey TakeawaysYour daily clinical work is valuable contentReposting strong content is not penalizedEngagement beats follower countSimplicity scalesAttention must be earned

AI Is Not a Silver BulletRecorded live at APTA CSM, Todd Norwood joins the show to talk about AI, digital health, and why physical therapy clinics need to fix their data before chasing the next shiny tech solution.What We Cover:The difference between good data and bad data in PTWhy “ish” measurements don't scale in an AI worldHow to evaluate AI scribes and clinic toolsImposter syndrome in leadership and tech transitionsHow PT skills translate into digital health rolesUsing AI to assess your resume against job descriptionsWhy investing in yourself beats any market investmentKey TakeawayGood data is foundational to making the most of AI and digital innovation in physical therapy.GuestTodd NorwoodPT in Digital Health

Live from CSM Anaheim, Jimmy sits down with Matt Huey, PT, to talk about what really moves the physical therapy profession forward.The conversation centers on engagement.Not national outrage. Not social media complaints. Real, local involvement.Key themes:Why member engagement starts at the state levelProtecting scope of practiceWhy trust can't be boughtThe real ROI of conferencesHow mentorship creates professional legacyPassing a “little piece of you” to every student you trainThe takeaway:If you want the profession to improve, you have to show up.

Proactive Care Is a Pathway — Not a SloganPT is built for prevention.But most of healthcare still waits until pain shows up.In this episode recorded live at CSM in Anaheim, Dr. Tatiana Olevsky discusses:Why patients still go to MDs first for MSK painThe public awareness gap around direct accessHow PTs can shift from reactive rehab to proactive performanceWhy outcomes — not visit counts — should define our valueLessons from Pilates and community-buildingMovement analysis as a preventative toolWhy PT is at an inflection pointKey TakeawaysPrioritize quality over quantityScreen upstream before pain becomes diagnosisBuild rapport before educationShow patients the future, don't just prescribe sets and repsIf PT wants to be first-line, we must earn itGuest InfoDr. Tatiana Olevsky Spine PT Fellow | Private Practice Owner | Educator

Better Systems, Not Tougher PeopleBurnout in healthcare isn't a motivation problem. It's a design problem.Dr. Lisa Flexner joins PT Pintcast live from APTA CSM to break down why:Burnout is an individual response to system dysfunctionProductivity is often the wrong performance metricTurnover costs far more than 1.5x salaryBelonging is a foundational performance driverPizza parties don't fix structural problemsHealthcare still operates inside outdated hierarchy modelsIf you're leading a clinic and wondering why retention is harder, morale feels fragile, or productivity pressure keeps increasing — this episode reframes the issue from something personal to something structural.Key TakeawaysBurnout shows up in individuals, but starts in systemsIndirect turnover costs often double or triple salary impactBelonging and shared mission drive productivity more than pressureMeasuring employee net promoter score (eNPS) may be more predictive than productivityHealthcare needs a “Flexner Report 2.0” to move toward collaborative practice

Live from APTA CSM in Anaheim, Jimmy talks with Dr. Jenn Bell about redefining professionalism in physical therapy.They discuss:Where traditional professional norms came fromWho those norms disproportionately impactWhy authenticity affects burnoutWhy recruitment without belonging failsThe shift from diversity → equity → inclusion → belongingWhat PTs must let go of to evolveIf your clinic wants to recruit and retain strong clinicians, this conversation matters.Key TakeawaysProfessionalism has historically centered a narrow identity standard.Underrepresented clinicians carry extra cognitive load when asked to “code switch.”Burnout is worsened when clinicians can't show up authentically.Recruiting diversity without creating belonging is performative.PT leaders must examine their own biases and expectations.

Advocacy Isn't Optional—It's Your ResponsibilityIn this episode, Jimmy talks with Jim Leahy, longtime lobbyist and association executive serving nine APTA chapters across the country.Jim has spent over 30 years inside the machinery of healthcare policy. His message is clear:If you're not involved in advocacy, you're gambling with your profession—and your patients.What You'll Learn:Why state legislators control your scope of practiceWhy most PT Hill Days send the wrong messageHow just 10 emails can influence a lawmakerWhy payment reform requires more than legislationHow prior authorization laws are shiftingWhy relationships matter more than argumentsThe difference between activity and achievementKey Takeaways:Advocacy isn't hard—but it takes commitmentLegislators notice small numbers of engaged constituentsPayment reform must include legislative, administrative, and insurer-level strategiesIf you don't advocate, others will define your profession

Recorded live from CSM, this episode features Jake Irwin, PT, DPT — professor, athletics PT, private practice owner, and APTA delegate.The conversation covers:Why seasoned PTs still attend CSMHow to approach conferences strategicallyThe real value of networkingUsing AI to navigate conference programmingThe uncomfortable truth about home exercise complianceJake delivers a strong parting shot:When patients don't get better because they didn't follow their home program — that's not their fault. That's yours.This episode challenges clinicians to choose growth over blame.

Mastery Before MarketingIn this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy talks with Lewis Lupowitz, sports physical therapist and founder of Longevity Physical Therapy & Performance.Lewis brings a strong perspective:There's a mentorship problem in physical therapy — and it's being disguised as an entrepreneurship movement.Key Topics Covered:Why new grads shouldn't rush to open a clinicThe difference between clinical confidence and branding confidenceHow to become a good menteeWhy “better is better” in rehabYouth sports over-specializationNeurocognitive training in return-to-sport rehabCreating an environment patients want to return toMajor TakeawaysOwning a business is hard. Being a great clinician inside that business is harder.Mentorship isn't automatic — you must position yourself to earn it.Strength and ROM alone are not enough for return to sport.Fancy tools don't replace clinical reasoning.The fastest way to build a successful clinic is becoming excellent first.Guest LinksLewis Lupowitz???? https://longevityptperformance.com/

Milica McDowell, DPT — clinic owner, professor, and now AVP of Education at USPH — joins Jimmy live from APTA CSM to make a bold claim:Most PTs are recommending the wrong shoes.In this episode:Why 10,000 steps is marketing, not medicineThe real step counts tied to longevity and mental healthWhy tapered toe boxes weaken feetThe concept of the “24-hour shoe clock”Why cushioned shoes in clinic may be a clinical liabilityIf you're a PT who cares about mobility, longevity, and biomechanics, this conversation matters.Milica's Core MessageFunctional footwear is not a fashion preference.It's a biomechanical responsibility.Resources???? Walk (Releases May 5, 2026) ???? milicamcdowell.com Follow: @gaithappens | @altrarunning | @vivobarefoot

Physical therapy research may feel invisible — but it protects reimbursement, strengthens professional credibility, and ensures long-term growth.In this episode, Jimmy talks with Becky Craik about:The mission of the Foundation for Physical Therapy ResearchHow a $10,000 seed grant can turn into millions in federal fundingWhy funding interruptions damage entire research teamsThe importance of cost-effectiveness researchThe Marquette Challenge and engaging the next generationWhy “Don't make enemies” might be the best professional advice you'll hearIf you believe in evidence-based practice, this episode explains why ongoing research funding matters to every PT — whether you work in a clinic or academia.

Do It Differently or Die: A Wake-Up Call for PT OwnersLive from CSM, Jimmy talks with Eric Fernandez from Hyperice about the uncomfortable realities facing outpatient physical therapy.What We Cover:The three-year journey behind the Nike x Hyperice recovery shoeWhy AI and efficiency won't save a broken business modelWhy PTs must start thinking like consumer brandsThe importance of lifecycle care and long-term valueWhy wellness companies are winning cash-based dollarsThe danger of waiting for insurance companies to “fix it”The mindset shift clinic owners must makeKey TakeawayThe system is perfectly designed to produce the results you're currently getting. If you don't like the results, rebuild the system.GuestEric Fernandez – Hyperice https://hyperice.com

A Decade Under the InfluenceFaith Stokes takes over the mic at CSM and interviews Jimmy McKay about 10 years of PT Pintcast.This episode covers:Why reimbursement is the profession's defining issueHow students may drive the next innovation waveThe Costa Rica wheelchair fundraiser storyWhat APTA could do differentlyWhy PT must embrace visibility and communicationThe difference between communicating and being understoodThe Line That Sticks:Science isn't finished until it's understood.If you're a PT, clinic owner, or healthcare leader trying to protect trust and earn attention in your market — this episode matters.Sponsors MentionedSaRA HealthEMPOWER EMRU.S. Physical Therapy

Stop Being the “Nice PT”Live from CSM in Anaheim, Eric Bellm joins PT Pintcast to challenge one of the most uncomfortable truths in physical therapy:Are we too focused on being liked?This episode tackles:The difference between support and accountabilityWhen to have the “coming to Jesus” conversation with a patientWhy labeling someone “noncompliant” is often lazyHow to introduce accountability from the first evalWhy educators must model humilityHow PTs should approach AI and healthcare changeThe importance of professional prideKey Takeaways“Help me understand” changes conversations.Accountability starts at evaluation.Treat the human, not just the diagnosis.Have an accountability buddy at work.Don't fight change. Evolve with it.GuestEric Bellm, PT, DPT, OCSAssistant Professor – Saint Louis University

Circus Is Sport — So Why Aren't We Treating It That Way?Performing artists train like elite athletes — but they're rarely treated like them in healthcare.In this episode, Emily Scherb (The Circus Doc) shares:How she transitioned from professional circus performer to PTWhy circus participation is exploding across the U.S.What “adult-onset circus” meansWhy pole dancers avoid seeking careThe stigma problem in healthcareHow load management applies to performing artistsWhy saying “I don't know” builds trustThe massive business opportunity PTs are missingKey TakeawaysCircus artists are athletes.Performing arts lack a strong culture of training load management.PTs don't need to be experts — just curious and respectful.Niching down builds authority and trust.This population is actively looking for clinicians who understand them.Guest LinksWebsite: https://www.thecircusdoc.comInstagram: @thecircusdocLinkedIn: Emily Scherb

At CSM 2026, Jimmy sits down with Devon Morris to discuss generational differences in physical therapy — and why clinic culture may matter more than compensation for retaining Gen Z clinicians.Key themes include:The impact of growing up in a “phone-based world”The Zoom communication shiftWhy stereotypes about “kids today” miss the pointBurnout and student debt realitiesWhy some therapists leave higher pay for better cultureHow intentional leadership improves retentionIf you're a clinic owner struggling with retention — or a PT navigating your early career — this episode delivers practical insight. 00:00 – CSM 2026 Live 02:15 – Gen Z Explained 04:20 – The Zoom Effect 06:05 – Culture Over Salary 07:30 – Retention Crisis 08:40 – Parting Shot

From CSM 2026 in Anaheim, Jimmy sits down with Ben Lindaman to discuss one of the biggest identity tensions in physical therapy:Generalist vs. Specialist.Healthcare rewards depth.Marketing rewards niche positioning.But patient care often demands integration.Ben argues that:Early over-specialization can stunt developmentGeneralist thinking is critical in rural and primary care settingsMost patients don't need hyper-specializationConfidence and competence matter more than credentialsPT's versatility is both a strength and communication challengeIf you've ever felt pressure to define your niche immediately — this episode is for you.???? Key TakeawaysSpecialization has value — but so does breadthYoung clinicians should explore before committingValue-based care demands better triage and integrationRural PTs must be adaptable generalistsClinical identity should be internally driven, not externally pressured???? GuestBen Lindaman, PT, DPTAssistant Professor, Tufts UniversityPRN Clinician, Philadelphia???? Benton.Lindaman@tufts.eduSocial: @ben10dptRecommended Book: Range by David Epstein???? SponsorsSupported by:SaRA HealthEMPOWER EMRU.S. Physical Therapy

Recorded LIVE from CSM 2026 in Anaheim, Jimmy sits down with Ami Faria from the APTA Board of Directors to discuss:The honest conversation happening around PT student debtWhy the Department of Education's proposed rule could create bottlenecksHow APTA prepares PTs for real advocacy on Capitol HillWhy AI in healthcare needs guardrails — not avoidanceThe strategic push toward Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM)This episode highlights the Earned Attention principle in action: Attention → Trust → Action.The profession cannot outsource its future. Collaboration is the strategy.

Guest: Dr. Rachel Zoffness – Pain Psychologist | UCSF + Stanford Faculty | Author of Tell Me Where It HurtsTopic: Revolutionizing Pain Education and TreatmentWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:Why the brain—not the body—is the control center for painHow chronic pain can be managed and treated (not just medicated)Real case study: “Sam” and the power of biopsychosocial careWhy PTs, MDs, and psychologists must collaborateWhy medical education fails to teach modern pain scienceHow you can create your own “pain recipe” for better outcomesBehind the scenes of Rachel's new book, publishing journey & outreachLinks + Resources???? Website: zoffness.com???? Book: Tell Me Where It Hurts — Order Now???? Follow: @TheRealDocZoff, @drzoffness???? Want Rachel to record your voicemail? Preorder and submit at zoffness.com

Physical therapy isn't just about movement anymore — it's about models, messaging, and mindset. In this episode, Jimmy interviews Ryan Sharkey and Jonathan Ide-Don, co-founders of Full Stack Healthcare, a platform and newsletter helping clinicians think beyond fee-for-service.They break down the differences between RTM and telehealth, how asynchronous care changes outcomes, and why communication — not Theraband color — is your next clinical edge.???? Who this is for: Clinic owners, ambitious PTs, policy-curious rehab pros, and anyone who feels like the system is broken but isn't sure how to fix it.???? Topics covered:What "full stack" really means for healthcareWhy PTs need to think like product buildersRTM vs Telehealth: Reimbursement realitiesWhy communication > exercise selectionScaling care without sacrificing qualitySubstack as a clinic strategy???? Game Segment: Full Stack Fire RoundRTM vs TelehealthFee-for-service vs Value-basedClinician-led vs Venture-fundedOne Substack post every PT should read???? Guest & Resource Links:???? Full Stack Healthcare???? Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss????‍⚕️ Sara Health – Remote care, simplified???? Empower EMR – Built for PTs???? US Physical Therapy – 650+ clinic locations

Many PTs expect APTA membership to deliver immediate, visible ROI — discounts, perks, and fast results. In this conversation, Rebekah Griffith explains why that mindset misses the real value of professional advocacy.This episode covers:Why advocacy work happens whether you're paying attention or notThe “sprinkles vs cake” analogy for APTA benefitsWhy some PTs feel disappointed — and how to realign expectationsHow to approach CSM as a relationship-building opportunityWhy passive attendance leads to zero returnThe mindset shift that separates frustrated attendees from successful onesKey takeaway: You don't get value from APTA or CSM by watching. You get it by participating.

How do you build confident pediatric PTs and decode complex diagnoses like dyspraxia or EDS?Cheri Woodson has spent 45+ years treating children, educating families, and mentoring therapists. In this episode, she shares how physical therapists can better support kids with executive function and motor planning challenges — even without a formal diagnosis.✅ Why motor delays often go undiagnosed ✅ The biggest myth in pediatric PT ✅ What PT schools miss (and how to fix it) ✅ Strategies to accelerate clinical reasoningTimestamps: 00:00 - Intro02:15 - Cheri's 45-year journey in pediatric PT05:44 - Mentoring the next generation of PTs09:30 - Treating without a formal diagnosis13:20 - What PT schools still miss about peds16:47 - Strategies for dyspraxia + motor planning19:40 - The myth that still hurts pediatric care22:00 - Cheri's parting shot Sponsored By:PRE-ROLL: SaRA Health — Remote Therapeutic Monitoring made simple → https://sarahealth.comMID-ROLL: Empower EMR — EMR designed for speed and simplicity → https://empoweremr.comPRE-PARTING SHOT: U.S. Physical Therapy — Build your PT career your way → https://usph.com

Most PT marketing fails because it chases moments instead of relationships.In this episode, Jimmy McKay breaks down:Why conference booths don't create trustHow familiarity actually drives hiring and patient decisionsWhy copying trends kills credibilityThe difference between storytelling and telling storiesWhy frequency beats perfection every timeIf you're a clinic owner, healthcare exec, or PT leader trying to grow without burning cash — this episode reframes everything.SponsorsSaRA HealthEMPOWER EMRU.S. Physical Therapy

COVID changed everything — and for many PTs, it left emotional wounds that haven't healed. Kristin Walls and Lisa Kohler join us to unpack “moral injury” — how it's different from burnout, how it showed up in outpatient and acute care settings, and why it matters for the future of physical therapy.They preview their CSM talk, highlight new research on provider wellness, and share initiatives like the Wellness Committee and a national survey on professional sustainability.In this episode:Defining moral injury for PTsCSM talk preview: The Invisible WoundEthics vs. morals in clinical practicePost-traumatic growth and how to achieve itWhy PT needs moral communities — now more than everLinks:Kristin & Lisa's CSM Talk: Thursday Feb 12 @ 8amLAMP Leadership Series (TED-style talks)Wellness Committee (OPTA)PT Pintcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ptpintcastWebsite: https://ptpintcast.com

What if leadership in physical therapy wasn't about titles — but about how you show up? In this episode, three powerhouse PTs share how they stepped up in their careers — not by chasing roles, but by owning their value, raising their hand, and realizing that leadership is a behavior, not a job description. Whether you're a new grad, a PTA, or a 10-year vet, this one hits home.Featuring: Todd Norwood, PT, DPT, Lindsey Umlauf, PT, DPT and Kelly Louise Wooldridge, PT, MPTHosted by Jimmy McKay⏱️ CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro02:15 - Why PTs struggle to see themselves as leaders08:42 - The dangers of saying “I'm just a…”14:05 - How leadership shows up in patient care19:45 - Clinic roles vs leadership behaviors26:02 - Raising your hand before you're "ready"32:30 - Parting Shots: You belong at the table36:00 - CSM Session Info + Valentine's Day PSA36:55 - Outro + Where to go next???? GUEST + RESOURCE LINKS:???? CSM Session: “Leading with Care: Developing PTs in Healthcare Leadership”???? Sat, Feb 14th, 8:00 AM???? Anaheim, CA

????️ GUESTS:Dawn Magnusson & Rachel Prusynski – PTJ Editorial Team???? EPISODE SUMMARY:Is peer review really that scary? This special CSM 2026 preview pulls back the curtain on academic publishing with two editors from PTJ. Whether you're a clinician, student, or early-career researcher, you'll learn how to start writing, reviewing, and contributing to the scholarly conversation in physical therapy.???? Topics covered:Why PTs avoid peer review (and why they shouldn't)The surprising benefits of being a reviewerWhere new writers should start (even if they're not researchers)How PTJ is creating a more inclusive publishing pipelineThe emotional side of submitting your first article“Game time” insights from two seasoned editors???? CSM Session Info:Behind the Red Ink: Demystifying Peer Review and Empowering Emerging Scholars???? Friday, February 13, 2026 | ???? 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM???? Room 163, ACC North – Anaheim Convention Center???? Sponsored by:Pre-roll: SaRA Health – https://sarahealth.comMid-roll: Empower EMR – https://empoweremr.comPre-parting shot: US Physical Therapy – https://usph.com

What happens when the immune system turns into a weapon against cancer — and PTs aren't sure what to expect?Join Jimmy McKay as he interviews three leaders in oncology rehab at CSM 2026. Scott Capozza, Amanda Giarratano, and Stephen Wechsler break down what immunotherapy means for PTs — and how to prepare for the tidal wave of patients already coming.You'll learn:The real differences between immunotherapy and chemoWhy side effects often look like inflammation — and how to treat itWhat the data says about exercise improving survivalReferral patterns, clinical barriers, and how students are pushing changeThis is essential listening for any physical therapist working in oncology or interested in the future of personalized cancer care.

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America — especially with older adults. But with its explosive popularity comes a wave of injuries. PTs Diane Fleming and Kristin Walls join the show to share insights from their CSM 2026 session, covering:Why pickleball matters in geriatrics AND sportsCommon injury patterns PTs should be ready forThe SAFE exam and its use in screening athletic older adultsAdvice for PTs pitching fun, nontraditional sessionsWhat it looks like when two PTs present... in costume???? Includes a rapid-fire game: “Pickle or Pass”???? Sponsors MentionedPRE-ROLL: ???? SaRA Health — Remote care via text, easy RTM, no app needed. sarahealth.comMID-ROLL: ???? Empower EMR — Clean workflows, faster notes, real support. empoweremr.comPARTING SHOT: ???? U.S. Physical Therapy — Build your future in PT. usph.com

Rob Panariello has done it all — from strength coach at St. John's to Director of Health & Performance for the Carolina Panthers, to co-founding one of the largest PT practices in the country. In this episode, he shares:The real difference between routine and commitmentWhat new grads consistently get wrongThe value of strength (and when to add RFD)How to build a clinic-wide ROI mindsetWhy "being busy" isn't the same as building a career???? HERO CLIP MOMENT: "There's a big difference between routine... and commitment."???? LIGHTNING ROUND GAME: Name That Coach! Rapid-fire quote game: Did this come from Parcells, Vermeil, or Lou C????? SPONSOR PLACEMENT:PRE-ROLL: SaRA HealthMID-ROLL: Empower EMRPRE-PARTING SHOT: U.S. 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.

In this PT Breakfast Club livestream, Jimmy McKay sits down with Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato to unpack what's actually working for clinic owners and PT creators right now: why posting volume wins, how to build repeatable content formats, a DM strategy that leads to real-world referral relationships, and how to stop letting the fear of “PT internet criticism” keep you quiet.Key TakeawaysFrequency is the lever: growth comes from reps, not perfection.Pick 1–5 repeatable formats and run them.Use content to show the experience, not just claim expertise.DM strategy that works: follow + engage + then DM once you're in the real inbox.Handling criticism: stop outsourcing your confidence to the comments.Guests + LinksDave Kittle (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@thedavekittleshow/featuredTony Maritato (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/c/MedicareBilling

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.”