Episodes

What does it take to go from saying “I’m just a PTA” to being a respected leader, educator, and advocate in the PT space? In this episode, we talk with Jessica, a physical therapist assistant, Army veteran, educator, and RTM trailblazer who’s rewriting the script on what it means to be a PTA. She shares her powerful journey through massage therapy, military service, clinical care, and into education and leadership — including a game-changing moment when she was told, “We want YOU” by the APTA. ...

In this episode, we sit down with Katie Sutton, a nationally recognized PTA leader, podcast host, and educator who’s reshaping how PTAs see their value, their role, and their future. Katie is the host of the PTA+ Podcast, a platform designed to elevate the voice of Physical Therapist Assistants and help them grow personally and professionally. We talk about: How PTAs can grow beyond the clinic The inspiration behind launching PTA+ Katie’s journey from clinician to clinical educator and thoug...

Katie Sutton and Jimmy McKay dive into the major shakeups coming in rehab therapy: - The PT/PTA/OTA workforce shortage and why high schoolers are choosing other paths - The power of *unpacking* a career before diving in - 5–10% innovation boosts that actually stick—no panaceas - Why PTAs and digital tools are set to shoulder more care (and business!) load - The importance of leaning into *unsafe* zones first — “luck favors the bold” Tune in from DC as we head to the summit—expect insights,...

In this empowering episode of the PTA Plus Podcast, we’re joined by the inspiring Sanaz Holcomb, a Physical Therapist Assistant from Ohio who has navigated a powerful leadership journey—from local meetings to influential positions within state and national physical therapy organizations. If you’re a PTA, student, or clinician thinking, “Is leadership for me?”, this is your episode. You’ll learn: How to get started in PT and PTA governance roles What it’s really like to run (or be appointed) ...

In this episode of the PTA+ Podcast, host Katie Sutton sits down with Briana Drapp, DPT, PTA — founder of PTA Elevation, a study platform that has helped nearly 2,000 PTA students pass the NPTE. Briana opens up about her personal journey from PTA to DPT, the real costs and tradeoffs of PT school, and what most students get wrong when prepping for boards. If you’re considering the next step in your career — or wondering whether PT school is worth it — this episode is packed with honest insights,...

In this honest and energizing conversation, John Cooper, a seasoned PTA and newly certified ASTYM practitioner, opens up about the regrets he’s overcome, the power of lifelong learning, and how he found new purpose through limb-loss rehabilitation. Host Katie Sutton guides the conversation with transparency and encouragement as they unpack: CEU regrets and how to course-correct Overcoming imposter syndrome as a healthcare provider Advocating for advanced training (like ASTYM) The importance...

In this episode, we dive into the PTA Council’s mission—to ensure every PTA voice is heard in APTA. Alyssa Thompson shares how her journey from professional dance to outpatient PTA, educator, and PTA Council chair has shaped her leadership. Discover how the Council links PTA chapters (states), specialty sections, and academies to APTA’s national advocacy, policy, and engagement efforts. Key Takeaways Structure & History: The PTA Council, launched Jan 2024, includes reps from 50 state chapters ...

What happens when a physical therapist assistant with decades of clinical experience gets sidelined by long COVID — and decides it’s time to rewrite her career? In this inspiring episode, Gina Vitale shares how she transitioned from being a dedicated clinician, Pilates instructor, and home health provider into a thriving healthcare content writer — without going back to school, without a writing degree, and without losing the essence of what made her a great PTA. Gina opens up about: Recoveri...

Katie sits down with new grad PTA and leader Russ Burns for a vibrant discussion about advocacy, innovation, AI, and what it means to be a modern PTA in 2025. As they prepare to attend the Future of Rehab Therapy Summit at APTA HQ, they reflect on career transformation, the importance of in-person connection, and why PTAs need to see themselves as both contributors and leaders. Guest: Russ Burns, PTA, military police platoon sergeant, Ohio Physical Therapy Association early professional leader ...

In this insightful episode, host Katie Sutton sits down with Drew Contreras of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) to unpack the five biggest reasons PTAs (and other rehab professionals) must pay attention to the Future of Rehab Therapy Summit, happening July 9–10 in Washington, DC. This is not just another conference—it’s a pivot point for the entire rehab profession. If you're a PTA, PT, OT, SLP, or healthcare innovator, this summit is where you'll find the conversations that ar...

Original Airdate:Aug. 3, 2023 Welcome to the PTA+ Podcast! In this episode, host Katie Sutton has a captivating conversation with Amy Smith Hamel, PTA, a remarkable leader in the physical therapy field. Amy, the Regional Director of Operations at Restore Therapy in Alabama, shares her journey into leadership, the power of seizing opportunities, and the profound impact of mentorship and service. Join us as we explore Amy's advice on developing yourself in the field of physical therapy and beyond...

This week’s conversation pulls no punches: it’s time to stop waiting for someone to save your PT career. If you’re not embracing change, building tech literacy, and developing self-awareness, you’re falling behind. We cover: The top skills for healthcare professionals by 2030 Why “manual dexterity” is losing importance How to build career resilience starting NOW Using AI like ChatGPT as a clinical ally One unforgettable quote: "You're the boat. Start swimming."

This week’s conversation pulls no punches: it’s time to stop waiting for someone to save your PT career. If you’re not embracing change, building tech literacy, and developing self-awareness, you’re falling behind. We cover: The top skills for healthcare professionals by 2030 Why “manual dexterity” is losing importance How to build career resilience starting NOW Using AI like ChatGPT as a clinical ally One unforgettable quote: "You're the boat. Start swimming."

Many physical therapists and PTAs hit a career crossroads—burnout, stagnation, or the itch to try something new. In this episode, Jimmy and Katie Dwyer walk through a 4-question framework inspired by James Clear to help you rethink your next move. If you’ve ever asked yourself: "What else can I do with my skills?" or "Am I stuck in this role forever?" — this episode is for you.

In today's episode, Katie interviews returning guest, Dr. Drew Wilcox, who is a PTA and PTA educator at Utah Tech. Drew talks about the reason he pursued a Ph.D. and then breaks down the groundbreaking research he performed for his dissertation on perceived stress in PTA students. His research dives into what the causes of stress are, the comparisons to DPT students, and what educators can do about it. Thank you for tuning in to another insightful episode of the PTA+ Podcast. Be sure to subscri...

In today's episode, Katie interviews Elizabeth Simmons, PTA, Federal Affairs Liaison to the PTA Council, and PTA Council Representative/Board of Directors member in Indiana. Elizabeth is well-versed in all things “advocacy” and breaks it down for us. She helps describe advocacy from a 30,000-foot view, as well as the intricate details of speaking in person with your state representatives. Elizabeth describes some of the tools that are available for PTs, PTAs, and patients to use to advocate for ...

In today's episode, Katie and Sean Bagbey, PTA and Co-founder of Rehabilitation and Performance Institute (RPI) and recent Co-Host of the Health Education Transformation Podcast (HET Podcast) interview each other in a mash-up. In a fun and candid conversation, Katie puts Sean on the hot seat with “clinically based questions”, while Sean asks Katie “education-based questions”. The two hosts explore topics such as COVID and education, hybrid PTA programs, to the sustainability of the PTA and devel...

In today's episode, Katie interviews Drew Wilcox, Associate Professor of Physical Therapy at Utah Tech. Drew has a strong professional background in PTA education, and is an advocate for PTA advancement, student collaboration, and dedicated to driving physical therapy education towards sustainability. Katie and Drew have a diverse conversation discussing everything from PTA education, challenges in physical therapy education, PT-PTA student collaboration, to service/volunteerism in the professio...

In today's episode, Katie interviews Rachel Foltz, Assistant Director at Central American Medical Outreach, also known as CAMO. Rachel previously worked as a PTA prior to transitioning to her current role at CAMO. Katie and Rachel discuss how she transformed her skills as a PTA to her current role in recruiting services, devices, and clinicians to work with and travel to Honduras to serve others. Rachel explains the mission of CAMO and how other healthcare professionals can serve and donate as w...

In today's solo episode, Katie explores developing yourself as a Clinical Instructor with the audience. While it is fully recognized that developing as a CI varies across the spectrum regarding school and facility policy and procedure, this conversation is meant to be a starting block for new and emerging Clinical Instructors. In today’s show, Katie reviews three topics: fundamental ways to develop yourself, using creativity as a clinical educator, and being flexible in your Clinical Instructor ...

In today's solo episode, Katie explores becoming a Clinical Instructor with the audience. While it is fully recognized that this can be a broad and multifaceted conversation, she reviews three basic topics in today’s show: knowing why, how, and when to become a Clinical Instructor. Thank you for tuning in to another insightful episode of the PTA+ Podcast. Be sure to subscribe for more conversations with trailblazing physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. Share your thoughts on t...

In today's episode, we are thrilled to feature Shannon Carillo, a dynamic and innovative PTA from Virginia, who has carved new paths in the realms of billing, insurance, and risk management. Currently, Shannon is a Solution Architect for WebPT. Shannon shares her story of discovering a gap in patient billing experiences, leading her to explore consulting and ultimately redefine her career trajectory. Shannon provides practical tips on setting achievable goals and creating value as a PTA. Whethe...

With over 15,000 Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, and students in attendance, our podcast host and guest share a unique connection forged at the APTA's Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Boston. Today, we had the pleasure of chatting with Ashley Mannino from New Jersey. She shares her insights into the world of physical therapy, our chance encounter at CSM, and her recent certification in Functional Manual Therapy. Ashley provides an overview of her recent certification journ...

Welcome to another episode of PTA+ Podcast! Feeling lost in the whirlwind of conference preparations? You're not alone! In today's episode, we've got your back. Join us as we unravel the secrets of conference prep, focusing on the upcoming APTA's CSM in Boston, MA. Meet our expert guest, Kacey Dennis, a seasoned PTA from Arizona, and a conference pro. Kacey shares her insights on travel preparations, successful networking strategies, and the importance of PTAs considering presenting at professi...