In this episode, Shelby Daly interviews Paul Higgs, who works in an innovative athletic training clinic where it redefines the role of athletic trainers in healthcare. They discuss the Center for Exercise Medicine and Rehabilitation, the unique business model of the clinic, the challenges and opportunities in third-party reimbursement, and the importance of preventative care. Paul emphasizes the need for athletic trainers to advocate for their profession and the services they provide, while also addressing the ethical considerations in billing and patient care. The conversation concludes with advice for aspiring athletic trainers and thoughts on the future of the profession.
Agustin Melendez is a certified athletic trainer and founder of Combat Sports Medicine. Augie has carved out a unique role working ringside and cage-side as both an athletic trainer and professional cutman, supporting some of the toughest athletes in the world. From managing injuries in the middle of a fight camp to controlling bleeding between rounds, his work demands precision, calm under pressure, and a deep understanding of what it means to keep fighters safe while helping them perform at their best. What can we learn from working ringside?
In this episode Shelby sits down with Lynn Allen, President of Athletic Rehabilitation Therapy International (ARTI), to explore the growing global movement toward unified professional standards in sports medicine and athletic therapy in Ireland.
Lynn shares her journey through athletic therapy leadership and the mission behind ARTI — to promote international recognition, collaboration, and professional mobility for Athletic Therapists and Rehabilitation Therapists around the world. Together, they discuss how ARTI is bridging the gap between countries’ credentialing systems and helping clinicians gain mutual recognition across borders.
In this conversation, Shelby Daly and Albert Torres discuss the multifaceted world of athletic training, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience, effective communication, and the challenges faced by athletic trainers in both educational and professional settings. They explore the evolution of athletic training programs, the debate over specialization, and the critical role of athletic trainers in youth academies. The conversation highlights the need for a well-rounded education that prepares students for the complexities of the profession, as well as the importance of fostering strong relationships within the athletic community.
In this episode, Shelby Daly interviews Jacob Swisher, the creator of EZ-EAP, a digital platform designed to enhance emergency action plans for athletic trainers. They discuss the evolution of athletic training, the gaps in traditional emergency plans, and how technology can improve athlete safety and response times. Jacob shares his journey into athletic training, the features of EZ-EAP, and the importance of regular practice and updates to emergency action plans. The conversation also touches on the legal implications of inadequate emergency preparedness and the challenges of implementing new technology in athletic departments.
www.ez-eap.com
In this conversation, Aaron Ngor discusses the importance of building relationships within healthcare systems to streamline care. He shares his journey of developing a private practice and the significance of networking and outreach in providing effective care. Additionally, he highlights the innovative approach to sideline medicine for athletes and artists, showcasing how structured systems can enhance care delivery.
Episode Skeleton:
Shelby and Corey Oshikoya discuss the importance of social determinants of health in athletic training. They explore how factors such as socioeconomic status, education, and community resources impact athletes' recovery and performance. Corey emphasizes the need for athletic trainers to incorporate these considerations into their practice, advocating for a holistic approach to care that includes mental health and nutrition. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by athletic trainers in addressing these issues and the importance of self-care and community support.
Resources:
Three screening tools for social determinants of health:
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/fpm/blogs/inpractice/entry/social_determinants.html
Healthy People 2030: https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople
Social Determinant of Health: Consideration for Athletic Health Care. Picha, et al, 2021: https://nata.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/attr/57/6/article-p521.xml?isSearch=true
Picha et al, 2024: Athletic Trainers’ Observations of Social Determinants of Health in the Collegiate Setting: A Card Study
In this two-part interview, Shelby Daly sits down with Payton McNabb, a former multi-sport student-athlete who became a national advocate for athlete safety and women’s rights after suffering a life-altering concussion during a high school volleyball game. Together, they discuss the evolving landscape of competitive sports, the role of athletic trainers in protecting athletes, and the growing debate around fairness, safety, and equity in women’s athletics.
In the second part, Shelby is joined by Dr. Simi to explore how athletic trainers and athletic departments can thoughtfully navigate these complex and often polarizing situations. They discuss strategies for fostering open, respectful conversations around inclusion and identity in sport, creating spaces that encourage understanding and dialogue rather than division or “cancel culture.” Inclusion can still mean excluding certain parties.
www.independentwomen.com
EPISODE SKELETON
John Jenkins discusses the critical role of preceptors in athletic training education. He shares his journey of how he got into the profession, the challenges and rewards of being a preceptor, and the importance of mentorship in shaping the next generation of athletic trainers. They explore the need for formal training for preceptors, the impact of ego on the profession, and the significance of building clinical confidence in students. The discussion emphasizes the importance of creating a positive learning environment and the need for continuous learning and collaboration within the field. We also address whether preceptors should be paid or not.
We also discuss if preceptors should be paid or not.
EPISODE SKELETON:Matt Campbell, an athletic trainer and founder of the virtual Midwest Concussion Clinic, discusses the evolution of concussion care, particularly in the context of telehealth. He emphasizes the importance of continuous education, the challenges faced in virtual evaluations, and the need for better advocacy and awareness in concussion management. The discussion also touches on the differences in care for athletic versus non-athletic populations, the significance of baseline testing, and the role of media in shaping public perception of concussions.
EPISODE SKELETON:David Restiano the founder of Sor Soap, a unique product designed for soft tissue mobilization, shares his journey from being a graphic designer to creating a wellness product that combines hygiene with muscle recovery. He discusses the challenges of launching Sor Soap, including finding a manufacturer and educating the public about the benefits of soft tissue mobilization. The conversation also touches on the importance of self-care for athletes, the impact of Shark Tank on his business, and future product innovations.
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EPISODE SKELETON:Mitch Hauschildt discusses the evolution of athletic training, emphasizing the importance of balancing various roles within the profession, the significance of networking, and the shift towards a performance mindset in sports medicine. He highlights the need for specialization in athletic training, the future of education in the field, and the value of athletic trainers in different settings. Additionally, Mitch explores the benefits of red light therapy and the growing importance of mental health in athletic training.
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Brian Barry, an experienced athletic trainer and advocate for the profession shares his journey into athletic training, pivotal moments in his career, and insights on leadership, community involvement, and the importance of business acumen in the field. The conversation also delves into the challenges faced by the NATA and the need for transparency and engagement within the organization. Brian emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, accountability, and effective communication in leadership roles, as well as the necessity for athletic trainers to take charge of their professional development and community engagement.
EPISODE SKELETON:Tamisha Guy, the founder of Hue Tape, talks about kinesiology tape designed for individuals with melanin-rich skin tones. Tamisha shares her inspiration for creating the product, the challenges she faced in the competitive textile industry, and her journey as an entrepreneur. She emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, quality, and representation in wellness products, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. The discussion also touches on the future plans for Hue Tape and the impact it aims to have in the sports medicine community.
20% Discount Code: THB20
www.huetape.com
Marissa Villafuerte-Brooks, an athletic trainer in public safety, discussing the unique challenges and rewards of her role. Marissa shares insights on rehabilitation, the importance of workers' compensation, and the role of athletic trainers in injury prevention and management. The discussion highlights the significance of communication, tracking return on investment, and the complexities of working with public safety professionals.
We discuss the intricacies of injury prevention and management within public safety settings, particularly focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by workers' compensation. She emphasizes the importance of building trust with public safety personnel, advocating for athletic trainers, and the evolving landscape of job opportunities in this field. The discussion also touches on the significance of data collection and the need for effective communication and networking among athletic trainers.
www.psatsociety.com
EPISODE SKELETON:
Grace Savage, an expert in CPR and emergency care for athletic trainers, discuss the importance of CPR training, understanding cardiac arrest, and the need for continuous education and practice. Grace emphasizes the significance of clear communication and leadership during emergencies, as well as the emerging technologies that may enhance CPR effectiveness. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by athletic trainers in maintaining their skills and the importance of building relationships with local EMS for better emergency preparedness.
EPISODE SKELETON
Tyler Lesher discusses his journey of creating the EscaLAte Summit and ARC certification, emphasizing the importance of patient care, the need for safety nets, and the value of networking. He shares insights on the financial aspects of athletic training, the challenges faced by professionals, and the opportunities available in private practice. Tyler encourages aspiring athletic trainers to invest in themselves and build strong networks to succeed in their careers.
www.escalatela.com
www.advancedrehabcertification.com
SUMMARY
In this episode, Shelby Daly discusses the new Continuing Professional Certification (CPC) program with Shannon Fleming and Heather Collins from the BOC. They explore the differences between the new CPC renewal and the legacy renewal, emphasizing the personalized and flexible approach to professional development. The conversation delves into the Pathfinder tool, which aids athletic trainers in setting goals, tracking progress, and reflecting on their learning. The hosts discuss the importance of meaningful continuing education, the value of the CPC program for athletic trainers, and how it can help demonstrate their value to employers and the healthcare system. They also address concerns about change and the future of certification in athletic training.
TAKEAWAYS
bocatc.org
In this conversation, Jared Maisel, an international athletic trainer, shares his experiences working in various countries, including China, Belgium, and Hong Kong. He discusses the unique challenges faced by athletic trainers abroad, the importance of networking and education, and the evolving role of athletic trainers in international schools. Jared emphasizes the need for collaboration among professionals and the significance of adapting to different healthcare systems. He also reflects on his personal growth through these experiences and offers advice for aspiring athletic trainers looking to work internationally.
Frances Gilbert, the director of athletic training for the Savannah Bananas, discusses the unique environment of Banana Ball, the evolution of athletic training within this entertainment-focused league, and the challenges and opportunities that come with it. She shares her journey from collegiate sports to professional athletic training, the importance of collaboration with other departments, and the need for continuous growth and adaptability in the field. The conversation highlights the balance between providing high-quality care for athletes while also ensuring an engaging experience for fans.www.thesavannahbananas.com