June 10, 2025

Fresh Out, Fired Up: A New PTA’s Take on the Future of Rehab

Fresh Out, Fired Up: A New PTA’s Take on the Future of Rehab
Apple Podcasts podcast player iconSpotify podcast player iconYouTube podcast player icon
Apple Podcasts podcast player iconSpotify podcast player iconYouTube podcast player icon

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 | Instagram


Topics Covered:


  • First year as a PTA: what Russ has learned
  • AI in clinical workflows and education
  • Multidisciplinary advocacy at the APTA Summit
  • Non-linear career paths for PTAs
  • Leadership and professional growth for early professionals
  • Speed round: bold takes and buzzwords


Links & Resources: