RT Sidebar

  1. Oct 3

    Episode 111 - TikTok's @Brittanyslife22 on @RTSidebar

    Send us Fan Mail Episode 111 - TikTok's @Brittanyslife22 on  ⁨@RTSidebar⁩   Tonight’s Guest Brittany — @BrittanysLife22 Who Is Brittany? Brittany is a respiratory therapist and social-media creator using TikTok and other platforms to share her experiences in respiratory care, career education, and everyday life. 🫁 Life as a Respiratory Therapist What originally drew Brittany to respiratory therapy The reality of working in respiratory care versus what people expect The most rewarding—and challenging—parts of being an RT What she wishes students knew before entering the profession How social media has changed the way RTs connect with one another

  2. Sep 18

    Episode 110 - Influencing and Opportunities with Mack

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ RT Sidebar Show Notes This week on #RTSidebar, we’re hanging out with Mack from Respiratory—an RT influencer who’s using social media to connect, create, and open doors for respiratory therapists. Mack shares the story behind building a presence online, what it’s really like creating content as an RT, and how social media can become more than just a place to scroll—it can be a way to network, collaborate, learn, and find new opportunities. We talk about the power of putting yourself out there, connecting with other RTs,  and turning relationships made online into real-world opportunities. From content creation and collaborations to the importance of supporting other RT creators, this conversation is all about what can happen when RTs start using their voices and platforms to build something bigger than themselves. Whether you’re already creating content, thinking about starting, or just wondering what all the RT social-media hype is about, there’s something here for you. Create. Connect. Collaborate. #rrt.daily #RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy @RTSidebar @rrt.daily @mindyconklin @jjthert

  3. Sep 4

    Episode 109 - JJ needs his Doctorate with Dr. Jose Rojas

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of RT Sidebar, Dr. Jose Rojas of UTMB is planning for a Doctorate degree program and JJ needs some learning!  JJ asks what it takes to create a program at this level and what it can do for the field of Respiratory Care.  Dr. Rojas is the GOAT and JJ is a "kid".  Get it!  Check out #RTSidebar! Stay Tuned.

    Episode 109 - JJ needs his Doctorate with Dr. Jose Rojas

  4. Jul 30

    Episode 108 - It's Heating Up in Texas! with Dr. Varekojis and Dr. Vines

    Send us Fan Mail The future of the Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT) is brighter than ever! This week on RT Sidebar, Mindy, JJ, and Matty P welcome Drs. Sarah Varekojis and David Vines for an inspiring conversation about carrying the APRT vision forward and what it will take to continue advancing the profession. From leadership and advocacy to education and expanding opportunities for respiratory therapists, this episode explores the next chapter of the APRT movement. If you're passionate about the future of respiratory care and the evolution of the profession, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. The vision doesn't end—it evolves. Join us as we discuss what's next for APRTs and the future of respiratory care. 🎙️💨 #RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #APRT #Leadership #RespiratoryCare #FutureOfRT #Barflies #StayTuned

  5. Jul 18

    Episode 107 - Terri Miller, HOSA, and Students @ Summer Forum

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ RT Sidebar Show Notes Terri Miller returns to RT Sidebar for an inspiring conversation about building the future of respiratory care. From the incredible impact of HOSA in introducing students to healthcare careers to innovative strategies for recruiting and mentoring the next generation of respiratory therapists, Terri shares why investing in students today is essential for the profession tomorrow. Join Mindy, & JJ, as they discuss workforce development, leadership, and how every RT can play a role in inspiring future clinicians. Whether you're an educator, manager, student, or bedside therapist, this episode is full of practical ideas and optimism for the future of respiratory care. The future of our profession starts with the students we inspire today. 🎙️💙 #RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #HOSA #FutureRTs #WorkforceDevelopment #Leadership #Barflies

  6. Jul 8

    Episode 106 - RTSB & LGE with Dr. JB

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ RT Sidebar Show Notes Live from the California Society for Respiratory Care (CSRC), the Let's Get Ethical crew joins Mindy Conklin and Matty P for another lively conversation—this time with special guest, the one and only Dr. JB. From thought-provoking ethical dilemmas to leadership, clinical practice, and plenty of laughs along the way, this episode is packed with the candid conversations and friendly banter that RT Sidebar listeners love. Whether you're looking to sharpen your perspective or just enjoy hanging out with some of respiratory care's favorite voices, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Grab your favorite beverage, Barflies—it's time for another great conversation on RT Sidebar! 🍻🎙️

  7. Jun 19

    Episode 105 - Mayo Part 2

    Send us Fan Mail When I look at the Mayo Clinic situation, one question keeps coming to mind: Was this truly a financial decision, a staffing decision, or something else entirely? I don't have the answer. But I do think it's a conversation worth having.  Check out part 2 of RT Sidebar.  #Stay Tuned #RespiratoryTherapy #RTSidebar #HealthcareLeadership #CriticalCare #HealthcareWorkforce

  8. Jun 12

    Episode 104 - Mayo Part 1

    Send us Fan Mail This wasn't an episode I expected to record. When news broke that Mayo Clinic would be removing overnight bedside respiratory therapists from several facilities, I had an emotional reaction. I'll admit it. As someone who has spent years advocating for respiratory therapy, it felt personal. But after sitting with it, I realized what bothered me most wasn't the decision itself. It was what the decision represents. Respiratory therapists bring a unique skill set to the bedside. We see things differently. We assess differently. We often recognize problems before they become emergencies. Most of the time, that expertise may never be needed. But when it is needed, it matters. That's the part that concerns me. Not the routine nights. Not the quiet shifts. The one patient who suddenly decompensates. The one emergency that requires someone who understands respiratory care at a deeper level. That's what I believe may be missing from this conversation. I'd love to hear your thoughts. What role do you think bedside respiratory therapists play in patient care? #RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #CriticalCare #HealthcareLeadership #PatientSafety #RespiratoryCare

  9. May 28

    Episode 103 - Girl talk!

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of #RT Sidebar, @Mindy Conklin sits down with good Barfly friends Allie and Amanda for a conversation that goes everywhere—in the best way possible. From leadership and clinical practice to career journeys, life lessons, and plenty of laughs, nothing is off limits when these three get together. It’s honest, fun, insightful, and exactly the kind of conversation that reminds us why the RT community is so special. Grab a drink and hang out with the girls on this latest episode of #RT Sidebar. #Stay Tuned #Girl Talk #Barflies #RT #Friendship

  10. May 14

    Episode 102 - Hanging Out with the Crew

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ RT Sidebar – Episode 102 Sometimes the best episodes are just friends hanging out and talking RT. In Episode 102, Mindy, JJ, and Matty P sit down together for an honest conversation about respiratory therapy, their careers, the highlights, the lowlights, and the moments that shaped who they are today. From laughs to lessons learned, this episode gives listeners a more personal look at the hosts behind the microphones. #RTSidebar #Episode102 #RespiratoryTherapy #Barflies #RTLife #HealthcareLeadership

  11. May 4

    Episode 101 - Open Mic Night at MSRC

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ RT Sidebar – Episode 101: The Q&A Continues The conversation isn’t over… it’s just getting started. Episode 101 brings you Part Two from our 100th episode celebration at the Montana Society for Respiratory Care—a live Q&A session with JJ, Mindy, and Matty P. Real questions, real answers, and the kind of unfiltered discussion you’ve come to expect from RT Sidebar. If you loved Episode 100, you won’t want to miss what comes next.

  12. Apr 16

    Episode 100 - It's Finally Here

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ RT Sidebar – Episode 100 🎉 100 episodes. Countless conversations. One incredible community. From bedside insights to big-picture debates, RT Sidebar has been all about elevating respiratory care—and we’re just getting started. This milestone episode is a celebration of the journey, the guests, and the Barflies who made it all possible. Join us for Episode 100 as we reflect, laugh, and look ahead to what’s next. 🗓️ April 16th | 4 PM EDT Let’s make this one big. #RTSidebar #Episode100 #RespiratoryTherapy #Barflies #HealthcareLeadership #StayTuned

  13. Apr 14

    Episode 99 - Update on APRT & Compact with Mindy

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of RT Sidebar, America's RT Sweetheart Mindy Conklin and Matty P dive into the evolution of the APRT and the growing momentum behind compact licensure in respiratory care. From expanding scope of practice to increasing mobility for therapists, they tell you everything you need to know! Plus, the countdown is on—Episode 100 is right around the corner. Don’t miss this conversation as we look ahead to what’s next for RTs everywhere.  April 16, 2026

  14. Apr 8

    Episode 100 Promo!

    Send us Fan Mail The countdown is here!  Let's go!

  15. Apr 8

    Episode 98 - JJ & Matty P - A Real Discussion

    Send us Fan Mail 🔥 RT Sidebar Show Notes 🔥 This is what JJ and Matty P do every week… #RTNerds #SavingTheWorld 😄 From PICS to vent checks, from patients first to practicing at the top of our license—nothing is off limits. Big questions, real conversations, and a few laughs along the way. Can we save U.S. healthcare? Maybe not alone… but we’re definitely going to talk about it. 👀👇 #RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #CriticalCare #TopOfLicense #PatientsFirst #HealthcareLeadership

  16. Apr 3

    Episode 97 - A Day in the Life of a Director

    Send us Fan Mail RT Sidebar Show Notes On this episode of RT Sidebar, we’re joined by Mike Nay for an inside look at what it really means to be a director in respiratory care. From staffing and strategy to tough decisions and team development, Mike pulls back the curtain on the depth and breadth of leadership behind the scenes. This conversation is a must-listen for therapists at every level—whether you’re considering leadership or just want a better understanding of the challenges and responsibilities your managers navigate every day. Insightful, honest, and relatable, this episode bridges the gap between the bedside and the boardroom.

  17. Mar 13

    Episode 96 - Get out of Bed! Kali Dayton Update!

    Send us Fan Mail RT Sidebar Show Notes On this episode of #RTSidebar, @Mindy Conklin and @JJ Valdez are joined by special guest host @Kali Dayton from #AwakeAndWalking ICU for a lively catch-up on all the exciting work happening in the movement to transform ICU culture. From early mobility to keeping patients awake, engaged, and walking! The conversation dives into the progress, the pushback, and the wins along the way. Expect a lot of inspiration for respiratory therapists and ICU teams looking to shake things up. If you care about better patient experiences and moving critical care forward—this is an episode you won’t want to miss. #WalkingHomefromtheICU #RT #empowerment #patientcare #StayTuned

  18. Feb 20

    Episode 95 - It's a Snow Day!

    Send us Fan Mail RT Sidebar – Snow Day Edition ❄️ It’s a Snow Day! On this episode of RT Sidebar, we’re joined by our friends Rob and Mike from Let’s Get Ethical to tackle a topic every hospital and respiratory therapist knows all too well—snow days. From staffing challenges and patient safety to communication breakdowns and ethical decision-making, we dig into how hospitals and RT departments can better prepare, respond, and lead when the weather turns wild. Practical insights, real talk, and a few cold-weather lessons you won’t want to miss. Bundle up and stay tuned.

  19. Feb 6

    Episode 94 - Love is in the Air

    Send us Fan Mail RT Sidebar Show Notes In this special RT Sidebar episode, the hosts step aside as their spouses—Heather, Jason, and Alicia—take over the microphones for a heartfelt and honest conversation about love, life, and respiratory therapy. From long shifts and late nights to shared sacrifices and unwavering support, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly means to love someone in the respiratory profession. Warm, real, and occasionally hilarious, this episode is a reminder that respiratory care doesn’t just impact patients—it shapes families too.

  20. Jan 26

    Episode 93 - Season 1 Winner of "The Shift" Sarah Sitar!

    Send us Fan Mail RT Sidebar Show Notes In this episode of RT Sidebar, Mindy, JJ, and Matty P sit down with Sarah Sitar, Season 1 winner of The Shift, for a candid conversation that goes beyond what viewers saw on screen. Sarah shares behind-the-scenes insights, real-world lessons, and what the experience revealed about leadership, teamwork, and resilience in healthcare. The discussion highlights why not just the winner—but every cast member—represents the kind of talent hospitals should be eager to hire. Honest, engaging, and inspiring, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of respiratory care.

  21. Jan 9

    Episode 92 - Elthea's Experience with Mindy

    Send us Fan Mail In this intimate and powerful episode of RT Sidebar, Mindy Conklin sits down with Elthea Notah for a deeply personal conversation about the realities facing Native American hospitals. Speaking both as a respiratory therapist and as a daughter, Elthea shares firsthand insight into the systemic challenges, resource limitations, and emotional toll experienced by patients, families, and clinicians serving Indigenous communities. This episode moves beyond statistics, offering a human perspective on access to care, resilience, and the dedication of healthcare professionals working in often overlooked settings. It is a thoughtful and honest dialogue that invites listeners to reflect, learn, and better understand the lived experiences behind the care provided in Native American healthcare systems.

    Episode 92 - Elthea's Experience with Mindy

  22. 12/23/2025

    Episode 91 - The HOLIDAY Show!

    Send us Fan Mail As the year comes to a close, RT Sidebar pauses to reflect, give thanks, and celebrate the people who make this community so special. This Holiday Edition is about gratitude—for the respiratory therapists who show up every shift, the guests who shared their stories, and the listeners who continue to support and inspire us. This season reminds us that respiratory care is more than a profession—it’s a calling rooted in compassion, resilience, and service. Whether you’re at the bedside, teaching the next generation, or taking a well-earned moment to rest, we see you and appreciate you. From our RT Sidebar family to yours, we wish you peace, rest, and connection this holiday season. Thank you for being part of our journey. Stay Tuned for an exciting start to season 4: @AltheaNotah and Season 1 winner of “The Shift” @Sarah Sitar will kick off the year!

    Episode 91 - The HOLIDAY Show!

  23. 12/12/2025

    Episode 90 - From Residency to Excellence: Nicola’s Journey as a New RT

    Send us Fan Mail Nicola just completed an outstanding respiratory therapy residency program in Houston, Texas. As a brand-new RT, she’s thriving—earning specialty credentials and building confidence thanks to phenomenal support throughout her training. In this episode, @Mindy Conklin   and  @MatthewPavlichko  dive into her inspiring journey, how the residency shaped her skills, and what it takes to succeed as a new therapist in today’s healthcare environment. Special shout-out to Nicola’s mom for being her biggest cheerleader along the way! Tune in to hear Nicola’s story and learn why structured residency programs can make all the difference for respiratory therapists starting their careers. #rtsidebar #MomRT #Residency #respiratorytherapy #AARC2025

  24. 11/25/2025

    Episode 89 - The Ultimate Gift for Thanksgiving

    Send us Fan Mail Barflies asked, and we delivered! The most requested guest joins us for an unforgettable conversation. @Heather Pavlichko (the real RT in the Pavlichko house) brings her expertise and energy to the mic as we dive into some of the hottest topics in respiratory care and beyond. Heather’s insights are practical, forward-thinking, and sprinkled with humor. Whether you’re a clinician, educator, or just curious about the future of critical care, this episode is packed with value.  @JJtheRT and @MindyConklin had way too much fun in this episode.  Enjoy the Ultimate Gift for Thanksgiving!  #RTSidebar #Thanksgiving #RTFamily #RenLynn #BeAnOrganDonor #PEEPs

    Episode 89 - The Ultimate Gift for Thanksgiving

  25. 11/11/2025

    Episode 88 - Veterans and RTs - Not that Different

    Send us Fan Mail Veterans and RTs aren’t that different — both answer the call when things get tough.  Both stand strong under pressure, serve with purpose, and fight to protect lives. This Veteran's/Remembrance Day, #RTSidebar honors those who’ve served — in uniform and in care. 🌺 #VeteransDay #RemembranceDay #RTSidebar #WeAreRT #LestWeForget #RespiratoryTherapy