Seasoned PTs

Linda Denney PT, PhD, MAppSc (Manip) & Heidi Lally PT, DPT, MTC, AT-Ret.
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Medicine
  • Weekly

Discussing clinical cases that shape careers and bring clinical gems to light. seasonedpts.substack.com

  1. 2d ago

    Show Up and Fill Your Cup: Jamie Nesbit PT, DPT, NCS, GCS

    How do you go from new graduate PT to board-certified neurologic and geriatric specialist, university faculty member, NPTE item writer, and community leader? You show up, stay curious, recognize the gaps, and find ways to fill them. Jamie Nesbit, PT, DPT, NCS, GCS shares her incredible journey and the opportunities, connections, and experiences that has shaped her evolving career. Tune in to hear practical insights on mentorship, clinical education, Parkinson’s community outreach, NPTE question writing, and finding ways to make an impact beyond the clinic. Jamie Nesbit is a Physical Therapy and Assistant Professor in the Physical Therapy Department at Creighton University – Phoenix Health Sciences Campus. She is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy and a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy. Along with these board certifications, she is trained in vestibular rehabilitation, a certified LSVT BIG and PWR! Therapist, and consults as a LiteGait trainer for Mobility Research. She has a special interest for wellness models and incorporating these models into care for people with neurologic conditions. In line with this interest, she is the chair of the Health Promotion and Wellness Committee for the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy, a clinical director for Special Olympics FunFitness, and a board member with the Parkinson’s Foundation Southwest Chapter. When she is not working, she enjoys being with her family, working out, and traveling. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit seasonedpts.substack.com

  2. Oct 26

    Live a Fulfilled Life, Stay Curious: Jess Elis PT, DPT, PhD, FAAOMPT, OCS, SCS, COMT, CSCS

    What does it mean to build a fulfilling career in physical therapy? Stay curious, dig in and chase your dream! Jess Elis, PT, DPT, PhD, FAAOMPT, OCS, SCS, COMT, CSCS shares the steps that shaped his physical therapy career, from pursuing sports rehabilitation and working in the NBA to creating his own practice, developing physical therapy continuing education courses, and building a mentorship program for physical therapists. Tune in and discover how curiosity, perseverance, mentorship, and a willingness to explore new opportunities can shape your career, reignite your passion for patient care, and open doors beyond traditional clinical practice. Stay curious. Keep growing. Build a career that fulfills you. Jess Elis, PT, DPT, PhD, FAAOMPT, OCS, SCS, COMT, CSCS is a physical therapist, educator, and medical performance consultant with more than 16 years of experience in sports rehabilitation and performance, including over a decade working with professional athletes. Throughout his career, Jess has held medical and performance leadership roles across professional sports, including serving as Vice President of Health and Head of Medical for the New York Knicks, Director of Physical Therapy at EXOS, and in medical and performance roles with the Portland Trail Blazers and Phoenix Suns. Jess is the founder of Rehab Code, an education platform dedicated to advancing clinical reasoning and bridging the gap between rehabilitation and performance. Through live courses, mentorship, and continuing education, he teaches clinicians how to better understand complex musculoskeletal conditions and translate evidence, biomechanics, and clinical experience into practical decision-making. He is also the founder of Confirmed Medical, a concierge medical performance practice providing individualized rehabilitation, medical coordination, and performance support for professional athletes and other high-performing individuals. Connect with Jess: @rehab_code This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit seasonedpts.substack.com

  3. Oct 19

    PT vs. OT or Both? Exploring the Dual-Credential PT/OT Path With Seneca Woods DPT, MOT

    What does it take to become both a physical therapist (PT) and an occupational therapist (OT)—and how can dual credentials shape your career? In this episode, Seneca Woods, DPT, MOT, shares his journey to becoming a dual-credential PT/OT. He discusses why he pursued both professions, how integrating PT and OT perspectives has shaped his clinical practice and patient care, and how his unique skill set has contributed to his professional growth and career advancement. Practicing in a rural community bordering two states has brought its own set of challenges and opportunities. Seneca speaks about maintaining professional licensure in two states across two credentials. And how dual credentialed rural practice can be like a box of chocolates: you never know what you’re going to get! I am originally from British Columbia, Canada, and have been married to my wife, Lisa, for 26 years. She has been my greatest source of support throughout my life, and I would not be where I am today without her love and encouragement. Together, we have four amazing children. I graduated from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences with a Master of Occupational Therapy in 2005 and my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2006. I have been practicing both physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) since 2007. Throughout my career, I have primarily worked in outpatient orthopedics, with additional experience in skilled nursing facilities and hospital-based inpatient care. In my current role, I treat a diverse range of conditions and injuries, including sports injuries, total joint replacements, work-related injuries, concussions, hand injuries, orthopedic conditions, and stroke rehabilitation. My experience across multiple clinical settings has allowed me to work with patients from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide range of rehabilitation needs. I am committed to helping my patients improve their function, regain independence, and return to the activities that matter most to them. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit seasonedpts.substack.com

  4. Oct 12

    Sleep Health and Physical Therapy: Katie Siengsukon, PT, PhD

    Do physical therapists have a role in sleep health? Absolutely. Sleep impacts nearly every system in the body—and it may be influencing your patient’s pain, recovery, learning, and function more than you realize. So, what can PTs actually do about it? Katie Siengsukon PT, PhD, a researcher specializing in behavioral sleep medicine, shares what sparked her interest in sleep and what she has learned about the connection between sleep and physical therapy. We discuss why sleep quality matters just as much as quantity and practical strategies PTs can use with patients—from consistent wake times and bright light exposure to physical activity, relaxation, and wind-down routines. If you want to better understand how sleep fits into recovery and rehabilitation, don’t miss this episode. If you’re a PT, clinician, or anyone interested in better recovery, this is a conversation worth hearing. Catherine (Katie) Siengsukon, PT, PhD, is a Professor and Director of Research for the Department of Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation Science, and Athletic Training and is the Director of the Sleep, Health, & Wellness (SleepWell) Laboratory at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Dr. Siengsukon’s research interest involves understanding how sleep impacts health-related outcomes and recovery, particularly in individuals with neurologic injury or disease, and behavioral interventions (i.e. CBT-I, sleep health intervention) to enhance sleep. Dr. Siengsukon’s research has been supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and the American Heart Association. Dr. Siengsukon received her MPT from Rockhurst University in 2002 and her PhD in Rehabilitation Science from the University of Kansas Medical Center in 2008. Dr. Siengsukon is certified in behavioral sleep medicine thru the Board of Behavioral Sleep Medicine. Resources: Sleep Health Tool Kit This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit seasonedpts.substack.com

  5. Oct 5

    Beyond Clinical Care: Unlocking Your Potential David Montgomery PT, DPT

    What if working as a clinician is only a small sliver of what you can do as a physical therapist? David Montgomery PT, DPT shares how networking, asking questions, and researching opportunities outside of direct patient care eventually led him to an unexpected opportunity—one that blends his love for technology, research, and cycling. He reflects on the lessons he learned from his early career as a travel PT in both outpatient and home health settings and what drove him to his current position. He talks about developing a motion capture lab designed to explore bike fit, running and walking analysis, and so much more. This is a conversation about seeing possibilities before you know exactly where they will lead—and recognizing that your PT degree can open doors far beyond the clinic. David Montgomery, PT, DPT, is a Cincinnati native and a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Sports Biomechanics in 2010 and a Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2016. After a brief period as a staff PT at a local hospital, he spent eight years as a travel physical therapist in outpatient orthopedics and home health. Much of that work was in rural areas of Washington, California, and Alaska, and he also took assignments in Arkansas and Kentucky. He served as lead PT on several assignments and supervised PTAs and technicians. In 2024, David returned to Beyond Exercise, a private-pay sports medicine and performance clinic in Cincinnati. He was the clinic’s first employee, working the front desk and as an aide for founder Eric Oliver while he was in PT school. Today he is a staff physical therapist, the Biomechanics Lab Manager, and the Operations Manager. His work centers on turning motion capture and objective testing data into clinical decisions for runners, cyclists, and field sport athletes. He has tested professional and semi-professional athletes, including MLS players, and serves as a supporting physical therapist for the Manu Ledesma Academy UPSL soccer teams. He led two industry-sponsored cycling research projects with VSEAT and presented on dynamic bike fitting at the 2025 Noraxon User Group Meeting. Outside the clinic, David spends most of his free time trail running, mountaineering, and mountain biking. Questions for David? Send him an email: david.montgomery@gobeyondexercise.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit seasonedpts.substack.com

  6. Sep 28

    Treating Across The Life Span: Maggie Mills PT, DPT

    Treating across the lifespan and building a career that fits her life Maggie Mills PT, DPT shares lessons from years of clinical practice. She expounds on what it took to create a cash based mobile PT business that allows her to keep growing as a clinician while being the mom she wants to be. Maggie shares the benefits of a flexible practice that allows her to treat patients across the lifespan, from infants to geriatrics, and across specialties. Your PT career doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Listen in, be inspired, and discover what’s possible when you build a career that works for you. Maggie Mills PT, DPT graduated with her B.S. in Kinesiology from Washington State University and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Northern Arizona University. She has spent her time as a physical therapist working with a variety of different patients in varying settings. She has vast experience in a direct-pay, in-home system, helping older and senior adults maintain mobility and strength. Maggie has also worked a great deal with pediatric patients, both in-clinic and in-home, helping infants and young children achieve new milestones or overcome impairments. She has also spent time treating orthopedic physical therapy concerns in a fast-paced clinic, taking patients through rehabilitation protocols and returning them to their athletic aspirations. Maggie has specific experience in orthopedics, pediatrics, gait & balance training, geriatrics and the direct access, direct-pay system. Maggie utilizes her experience as a physical therapist combined with her experience as a Division I soccer player to maximize the rehab potential of her clients and return them to what they love doing most. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit seasonedpts.substack.com

  7. Sep 21

    DISSECT Series: The Unpredictable Journey in Recovery

    Callie takes us inside her experiences as an SPT in the acute care setting. She revisits four patient cases that challenged her thinking, changed her approach, and taught her lessons that carry over to both her personal and professional life. These stories highlight that healthcare is more than treating diagnoses—it’s about seeing the person behind them, collaborating to meet specific needs, and allowing every patient to shape the way we learn, grow, and practice. We believe in the value of discussing cases with colleagues. When clinicians think out loud and collaborate clinical reasoning improves and the clinical toolbox expands. We hope these cases encourages you to see the patient as a whole, and collaborate with other health care professionals and family members to achieve optimal results. What has helped you manage complex patients with multiple diagnoses? What tips do you have to efficiently review and understand lab values? How has a challenging patient made you a better clinician? Share your experience with us—it may be exactly the lesson another therapist needs to hear. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit seasonedpts.substack.com

  8. Sep 14

    Masters Never Stop Learning: Ed Mulligan PT, DPT, AT-Ret.

    Being a great physical therapist isn't about knowing everything. It's about recognizing that there is always more to learn. Ed Mulligan PT, DPT, AT-Ret. is a master clinician and educator and exemplifies being a lifelong learner. He reflects on his career in athletic training, physical therapy, and academia. Offering insights into understanding research, the impact of financial literacy on physical therapists, and keeping the patient at the center of care—understanding the person, not just the injury. Listen in for practical lessons on becoming a better clinician, empowering your patients, and continuing to grow throughout your career. Edward Mulligan, PT, DPT, AT-Ret Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy-Emeritus Ed Mulligan has devoted more than 46 years to orthopedic and sports physical therapy, athletic training, and clinical education. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska and completed his professional physical therapy education at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He subsequently earned a post-professional master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University–Dallas and a transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Regis University. Dr. Mulligan was recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association as a board-certified clinical specialist in sports physical therapy in 1988 and in orthopedic physical therapy in 2009. His professional leadership has included serving as Chair of the Sports Physical Therapy Specialty Council of the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, as a member of APTA’s Board of Residency and Fellowship Education, and on the Research Committee of the APTA Academy of Orthopedic Physical Therapy. He continues to serve the profession as an accreditation site reviewer for physical therapy residency and fellowship programs. During more than 30 years in academia, Dr. Mulligan taught extensively in musculoskeletal physical therapy, business administration, and evidence-based practice. He also developed and directed both orthopedic and sports physical therapy residency programs. Most recently, he served as a core faculty member in the hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Tufts University School of Medicine in Phoenix. Although now semi-retired from full-time academia, he remains active as an adjunct faculty member, clinical educator, and consultant. Dr. Mulligan has authored nearly 60 studies published in peer-reviewed orthopedic and sports physical therapy journals. In recognition of his sustained contributions to physical therapy education, he received the Academy of Sports Physical Therapy’s Lifetime Excellence in Teaching Award in 2017 and was inducted into the Academy’s Hall of Fame in 2020. Dr. Mulligan and his wife, Jana Mulligan, PT, live in Euless, Texas. They have two sons: Ryan, an orthopedic surgeon, and Reid, an architect. They are also the proud grandparents of Ellie, age 13, and Bennet, age 11. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit seasonedpts.substack.com

See All (56)

About

Discussing clinical cases that shape careers and bring clinical gems to light. seasonedpts.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Linda Denney PT, PhD, MAppSc (Manip) & Heidi Lally PT, DPT, MTC, AT-Ret.
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © SeasonedPTs
  • Show Website
    Seasoned PTs