The PT Assistants

Ken, PTA & Laura, PTA
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Biweekly

Welcome to The PT Assistants Podcast—where two dedicated Physical Therapist Assistants come together to share real-life experiences from the field and pay it forward to the next generation. From patient care stories and clinical insights to the challenges, wins, and everything in between, we keep it honest, relatable, and practical. Whether you’re a PTA student, a new grad, or a seasoned clinician, this podcast is your space to learn, grow, and feel connected to others who truly understand the journey. Our mission is simple: to support, educate, and inspire by sharing what we’ve learned along the way—so you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. **The information in this video/podcast is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in this video/podcast is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional or professor**

  1. Jun 30

    Am I Just a Therapist's Helper?

    Every PTA has felt it — the PT who treats you like an aide instead of a licensed clinician. This week, Ken and Laura name what the field doesn't say out loud: your supervising PT is your coworker, not your boss. They break down what clinical supervision actually means, why it constantly gets confused with workplace management, and how to spot the difference before you accept a position where that line gets crossed. Walk away with a concrete framework, a job-interview question that changes how you evaluate employers, and a sharper read on your own PTA identity and scope. Follow us @thePTassistants on Instagram and tell us your PT-PTA story. 📬 Love the show? Get more between episodes. Once a month we send PTAs everything in one place — new episodes, videos, free study resources, and what's actually moving in the field. Free, no spam. 🎙️ Join the newsletter → Newsletter sign up!

  2. Jun 16

    Pulleys Don't Make You a Bad Therapist

    A "good vs. best therapist" reel got under Laura's skin — and honestly, same. In this episode, Kenny and Laura unpack why social media content keeps making clinicians feel like they're not doing enough, even when they're doing everything right. They talk comparison culture, misinformation, the pressure of being a creator, and how to actually use social media in a way that builds your career instead of quietly eroding your confidence. Practical tips, honest opinions, and Laura has some news that'll make you proud to be a PTA. 🎧 Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Podbean. 📸 Instagram: @thePTassistants ▶️ YouTube: thePTassistants Have social media helped or hurt your career? Tell us.

  3. Jun 2

    Being the Patient Changed Everything

    Her fourth Achilles surgery was supposed to be the last one. Recovery was supposed to take six weeks. It took eight months — and that was only part of it. While she was trying to get back on her feet, something happened. Something that got put on hold, then pushed back again, then went sideways in December. Something she's talking about publicly for the first time. She came back to work differently. New role, new specialties, a new way of seeing the patients sitting across from her — especially the ones dealing with pain that doesn't follow the textbook. And Kenny has one surprise question at the end. Her answer might be the most useful thing in the episode. Next week we're getting into something we couldn't agree on over text — social media in healthcare. Come ready with opinions. New episodes every other Tuesday. Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Podbean. Follow @thePTassistants on Instagram.

  4. May 19

    They Shut the Clinic Down on My Birthday

    Starting an LLC as a PTA, treating blind patients in home health, and what a startup shutdown looks like from the inside — Kenny covers two years of non-traditional career moves in one episode. Kenny left his first outpatient clinic for a startup, moved into an unexpected clinical director role when one of the owners left, and then watched the whole thing shut down in 30 days — on his birthday. From there he turned down three job offers and started his own LLC as a home health contractor while navigating new fatherhood. In this episode: What treating a 100% blind home health patient actually looks like — no demonstrations, all verbal and tactile cues The flexibility scales: why inconsistent income can be worth it when you have a family to work around What starting an LLC as a PTA actually involves, and what nobody teaches you in school The mortgage reveal: the one thing he wishes someone had warned him about before he became tax-efficient as an LLC contractor Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Podbean. Timestamps: (0:00) Two years ago, a job, a newborn, and a clinic that shut down (0:30) Intro — back after hiatus (1:30) Why he left — startup leap (2:50) Co-owner split, Kenny steps up (5:30) The shutdown — 30-day notice (8:00) Job search — three offers (10:30) Decision to start LLC (16:30) Home health — day to day (17:30) Treating a 100% blind patient (19:30) New grads and home health (21:00) Flexibility — why he stayed (25:00) Fatherhood and the clinician (29:00) Business literacy, ceilings for PTAs (30:00) The mortgage reveal (33:00) Still happy being a PTA?

  5. May 5

    Life Happened: The Comeback Episode

    We're back — and we have a LOT to catch up on. After an unplanned two-year hiatus, Laura and Ken are returning to explain everything that happened: a new baby, a fourth surgery with complications, startup closures, an LLC, home health, per diem life, IVF, lymphedema, and a walking cast just last week. This episode is a raw, honest recap of the last two years and a look at what's coming next. New episodes every other Tuesday morning — we're not going anywhere.   Time Title Description 0:00 Intro — "Returning to the Scene of the Crime" The hosts acknowledge the two-year gap and ease back into recording mode. ~1:30 Ken's Recap — New Dad Life Baby arrived, now waking him up at 6:30 AM daily. She is the boss. ~2:30 Ken's Career Journey — Startup to Home Health From high-volume clinic burnout, to a startup closing, to launching his own LLC as a home health contractor. ~5:30 Laura's Recap — Fourth Surgery & Recovery February 2024 surgery, wound healing complications, out of work until October. The long road back. ~8:00 Laura — Going Per Diem & IVF Choosing quality of life over full-time hours, working 3x/week, navigating IVF alongside a chronic condition. ~10:00 Living with Chronic Pain — A New Perspective Laura's January flare-up put her back on crutches; just got out of a walking cast the week of recording. ~11:30 Laura's New Role — Lymphedema Therapy Adding lymphedema to her caseload as a sustainable specialty — mostly seated, one-on-one with patients. ~13:00 Setting Realistic Expectations for the Pod Biweekly episodes, Tuesday morning releases, and why this time will be different. ~14:30 Wrap-Up — What's Coming Next Teasing deeper dives: home health, per diem, lymphedema, chronic pain as a clinician, and more.   #PTApodcast #physicaltherapyassistant #PTAlife #clinicianburnout #homehealth #lymphedema #werehback #chronicpain

  6. 01/19/2024

    Laura's Favorite Episode for New Grads (10 Things we wish we knew)

    Embark on a journey of career enlightenment with "Career Insights Unveiled," where seasoned professionals share the 10 invaluable lessons they wish someone had revealed to them at the start of their careers. Whether you're a recent graduate navigating the professional landscape or a seasoned veteran seeking new perspectives, this podcast offers candid conversations that resonate with professionals at every stage. Join our hosts as they delve into topics ranging from the nuances of early career challenges to essential advice that stands the test of time. Unveil the secrets to success, learn from shared experiences, and gain practical tips for thriving in the ever-evolving world of work. Are you curious about the lessons you might have missed? Our hosts encourage you to share your favorite career advice and be part of the conversation. "Career Insights Unveiled" is not just a podcast; it's a community where professionals come together to empower, inspire, and navigate the intricacies of their professional journeys. Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on career growth, learn from the collective wisdom of industry experts, and discover the insights that can transform your career trajectory. Your journey to professional success begins here.   Don't forget to like, follow, and Share to help the channel grow. Follow us on instagram, youtube, and twitter @the_PT_Assistants

  7. 01/12/2024

    Exploring the Unseen: Role of Research in Physical Therapy for PTAs

    Join us in this episode as we celebrate a happy Friday and share exciting news about a potential new arrival! The hosts delve into personal experiences and discuss the significance of research in the field of physical therapy, shedding light on the limited exposure PTAs receive during their education. They explore the benefits of incorporating research into clinical practice, share insights on patient outcomes, and offer valuable tips for those looking to dive into the world of research. Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone interested in the intersection of personal experiences and evidence-based practice, this episode provides an engaging perspective on the role of research in physical therapy.   https://www.physicaltherapy.com/articles/breaking-down-research-for-physical-4875

  8. 01/09/2024

    Dollars, Days, and Dilemmas: The Conference Conundrums

    In this episode, Ken and Laura explore the world of conferences, particularly focusing on the upcoming Combined Section Meeting (CSM) by APTA. They discuss the challenges of attending conferences, such as costs, travel, and time constraints. We expresses our desire to attend events like Therapy Con and shares insights into the financial considerations, including early registration discounts. As we reflect on the importance of conferences for professional development, we touch on the practical difficulties of implementing learned skills in the clinic. We also ponder the value companies place on conference attendance and discuss the potential benefits of negotiating conference attendance into employment contracts.    https://conferenceindex.org/conferences/physical-therapy/united-states   Thank you so much for listening! Don't forget to check out our socials!

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to The PT Assistants Podcast—where two dedicated Physical Therapist Assistants come together to share real-life experiences from the field and pay it forward to the next generation. From patient care stories and clinical insights to the challenges, wins, and everything in between, we keep it honest, relatable, and practical. Whether you’re a PTA student, a new grad, or a seasoned clinician, this podcast is your space to learn, grow, and feel connected to others who truly understand the journey. Our mission is simple: to support, educate, and inspire by sharing what we’ve learned along the way—so you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. **The information in this video/podcast is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in this video/podcast is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional or professor**

Information

  • Creator
    Ken, PTA & Laura, PTA
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2022 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The PT Assistants