Stay ConnectedPT Pintcast is a physical therapy podcast featuring conversations with physical therapists, clinic owners, educators, and leaders shaping the future of physical therapy.
Hosted by Jimmy McKay, PT, DPT, PT Pintcast blends real talk, big ideas, and practical insight on clinical care, business, culture, and where physical therapy is headed next. If a TED Talk and a radio show had a baby and raised it in a physical therapy clinic, this would be it.
Copyright: © PT Pintcast LLC
AI has made experimentation cheap. So why are we still acting like every idea costs $5,000?
On this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay and Tony Maritato start with the debate over AI in education and end up somewhere much bigger: what happens to physical therapy when the cost of learning, creating, testing, building, and iterating drops dramatically?
Tony walks through using AI to build a new website, generate social content, create viral knee-replacement imagery, analyze information, and explore business ideas that would have required significantly more time or money only a few years ago.
Jimmy connects that to a familiar media principle:
Attention → Trust → Action.
The goal isn't simply to “make content.” It's to understand whose attention you're earning, why they should keep giving it to you, and what eventually happens because of that trust.
The guys also dig into some surprisingly practical opportunities around PT.
Key themesAI as a learning tool
Instead of assuming AI eliminates thinking, what if educators taught students how to question outputs, find blind spots, compare perspectives, and apply information?
The economics of experimentation
If creating a website, image, script, campaign, or prototype costs a fraction of what it once did, the number of experiments businesses can run should increase dramatically.
Identity beats generic content
Tony explains why his knee-replacement tattoo images exploded online, while Jimmy breaks down how the same idea can translate into PT specialties, dogs, sneakers, ice cream, and other identity-driven concepts.
Attention isn't the end goal
Attention earns an opportunity to build trust. Trust eventually creates action, whether that means a patient choosing your clinic, someone listening to your podcast, buying something, or simply remembering you.
Your customers are already giving you market research
Google Reviews can reveal repeated language, beloved employees, missing services, hidden strengths, and opportunities that businesses may never mention in their own marketing.
Does Facebook still work for PT clinics?
Yes, if Facebook solves the problem you're actually trying to solve. The tool matters less than understanding the audience, objective, and platform.
Three PT-adjacent business ideasTony also pitches several businesses hiding in plain sight:
1. A transparent rehab reimbursement database
Take publicly available hospital and insurance pricing information and make it understandable and usable for PT, OT, and SLP professionals.
2. A physical therapy discount membership network
A DentalPlans-style model where consumers pay for access to transparent discounted rates at participating clinics.
3. A healthcare buyer's agent
Think real estate buyer's agent, but for healthcare: someone helping patients understand pricing, benefits, providers, options, and complex healthcare decisions.
The conversation closes with a deceptively simple question:
When AI gives you access to expertise, comparison, analysis, and second opinions almost instantly, are you irresponsible for using it?
Or are you irresponsible for refusing to learn how?
Why do physical therapy clinics feel broken even when everyone seems to be working harder?
On this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay, Tony Maritato, and Dave Kittle dig into physical therapist hiring, clinician recruitment, clinic marketing, reimbursement, RTM, AI-driven efficiency, and the economics of running a PT practice.
The conversation starts with a simple hiring problem: most clinics are competing for the same physical therapists using the same job boards, the same bonuses, and the same messaging. If every clinic is fishing in the same pond, is doing more of the same actually a strategy?
Then the conversation turns to marketing, attention, trust, and why a local pancake shop may understand brand building better than most healthcare organizations.
Finally, the guys explore a bigger question for physical therapy: when technology makes care more efficient and less expensive to deliver, who actually captures that value? The clinician? The clinic? The patient? Or the payer?
Topics include:
• Physical therapist hiring and recruitment
• PT clinic staffing challenges
• Physical therapy job marketing
• Clinician retention and hiring strategy
• RTM and remote therapeutic monitoring
• CMS and physical therapy reimbursement
• AI and healthcare efficiency
• Private practice physical therapy
• PT clinic marketing
• The economics of physical therapy practice
The big takeaway: you may not need more applicants, more marketing, or more of the same strategy. You may need to play a different game.
Should physical therapists be the only people who own physical therapy clinics?
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay and Tony Maritato dig into the business of healthcare, AI documentation, EMR adoption, and what happens when a clinic is built entirely around one clinician.
Dave Kittle has the day off, but Jimmy previews part of his upcoming APTA Florida keynote, including a speed round of PTs doing things differently: cowboy PT, snow sports PT, dance PT, and other examples meant to make clinicians ask, “What’s my twist?”
Then Tony brings up a bigger business question: should PT clinics be owned only by PTs? The conversation challenges the anti-business sentiment that shows up in healthcare. PTs understand patient care, but business people understand business. A strong healthcare business needs both.
Jimmy and Tony also talk about AI scribes, Luna Physical Therapy, Hinge Health, Sword, EMRs, power users, clinical education, and why the tool itself is not enough. Adoption depends on whether clinicians actually like the tool, trust it, and know how to use it inside real patient care.
The episode closes with a solopreneur clinic question: can you sell your business if the business is really you?
Jimmy and Tony break down the difference between buying a job and buying a business, why a customer list may have value but may not transfer, and how a solo clinician could build more valuable assets by teaching their method, creating systems, bringing in an apprentice, or turning their proprietary approach into a product.
The takeaway: understand what business you are actually in before you try to scale it, sell it, or protect it.
Can cash-pay physical therapy clinics sell packages?
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Tony Maritato, Dave Kittle, and Jimmy McKay react to recent discussion around state PT boards in North Carolina and Texas questioning whether cash-based, self-pay, or direct-pay physical therapy clinics can sell discounted treatment packages or collect payment for services that have not yet been delivered.
The crew breaks down the tension between consumer protection and business reality. Are these rules protecting patients, or are they limiting access, punishing business innovation, and forcing clinics into awkward workarounds?
Jimmy clarifies the difference between APTA chapters and state boards, while Tony and Dave talk through what this could mean for practice owners, patients, cash flow, refunds, accountability, retainers, memberships, and episode-of-care models.
Then the episode shifts into a six-pack referral draft: who should PT clinics build relationships with besides the obvious physician offices?
The picks include personal injury attorneys, youth sports coaches, private-pay nursing companies, gym owners and group fitness communities, wheelchair and medical equipment companies, and massage therapists. The crew closes by coming back to physicians with a better approach: stop leading with your credentials and start removing problems from their day.
The takeaway: whether you are selling cash-pay care or building referral relationships, the real work is understanding incentives, trust, risk, and the person on the other side of the transaction.
What if your one-star review is not a disaster?
What if it is actually one of the clearest ways to show people what your clinic stands for?
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay, Dave Kittle, and Tony Maritato talk about content, clinic storytelling, virtual assistants, outsourcing, moonlighting, AI, and referral relationships.
Jimmy and Dave start by talking about why PT Breakfast Club seems to be connecting with people: it is loose, unscripted, opinionated, and willing to say the parts that usually get sanded off professional healthcare conversations.
Then Dave shares why he made a video about a one-star Google review for Concierge Pain Relief. Instead of hiding the bad review or trying to delete it, he used it to explain how the practice works, why the model is different, and what type of patient may or may not be the right fit.
Jimmy breaks down the difference between telling a story and storytelling, then shares how he borrowed Dave’s idea for a wedding DJ marketing carousel built around fake one-star reviews from people whose weddings were too much fun.
The conversation then shifts into operations. Dave explains his experiment with virtual assistants in Costa Rica who are helping handle phone calls, lead follow-up, scheduling, EMR entry, and front desk workflows. The challenge is not just answering the phone. It is teaching the system: geography, home visit scheduling, Google Maps, commute buffers, conversion rates, and all the tiny decisions that live inside a clinic owner’s head.
From there, the crew gets into AI, employee identity, outsourcing, moonlighting, no-solicitation agreements, and whether therapists should be allowed to work elsewhere while employed full-time.
The episode closes with a setup for Thursday: a referral-source draft board. Who are the people in your neighborhood that PT clinics should build relationships with besides the obvious physician offices?
What if the future of physical therapy is not just more visits, more units, and more productivity pressure?
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Tony Maritato, Dave Kittle, and Jimmy McKay start with a productivity benchmark chart comparing outpatient private practice, corporate clinics, cash-based care, hospital outpatient, sports med, and high-volume clinics.
That opens up a bigger discussion about what productivity really means in PT. Is 25 visits a day automatically bad? Is one-on-one cash pay automatically better? Or does it all depend on the patient, the payer, the legal model, and the business you are actually building?
From there, the conversation turns to whether cash-pay physical therapy can scale. Dave points to Onward and similar performance-based models. Tony pushes back by asking whether that solves a population-level problem or simply serves a smaller group of people who already want the service.
Then the crew explores a bigger business idea: can PTs productize their expertise?
Jiffy Knee created a branded surgical approach. McKenzie became a global system. Total Motion Release built a recognizable method. So why don’t more physical therapists turn their clinical expertise into branded, licensable programs that other clinics can buy, use, and market?
The final stretch gets spicy: Tony’s “best personal trainer vs worst physical therapist” post sparks a debate about education, professional identity, licenses, and whether PTs overestimate the protective power of the degree.
The takeaway: knowledge is not proprietary. Value comes from the result, the system, the delivery, and whether people actually want what you are offering.
What matters more in a physical therapy hire: clinical skill, reliability, values, or fit?
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato talk through the uncomfortable parts of hiring that rarely make it into job descriptions.
Tony starts with a question every clinic owner eventually faces: what do you do with someone who is great with patients, but unreliable? Dave shares his interview process, including phone screens, Zoom calls, in-person skills assessments, reference checks, and the small behavioral details that can reveal whether a candidate is actually serious.
The conversation centers on one memorable example: a candidate who took a scheduled interview call while driving. For Dave, that was the end of the road. Not because the person was evil, but because the moment revealed something about attention, preparation, and how seriously they treated the opportunity.
Tony and Dave also explore whether employers should clearly spell out expectations or leave some things unsaid to see what a candidate does naturally. They talk about new grads versus experienced hires, hiring for core values, ambition alignment, long-term fit, and why one person can either elevate a clinic or quietly disrupt everything.
Then the episode turns toward outpatient ortho and the future of physical therapy. Dave brings up a LinkedIn post from an orthopedic surgeon who says he prescribes less formal PT than he did 10 years ago. Tony responds with a bigger question: what if some routine outpatient ortho care is not the best use of insurance dollars?
That leads to a spicy conversation about joint replacements, bundled payments, home exercise programs, AI, cash pay, private practice, premium models, scalable healthcare, Equinox, Planet Fitness, and where PT might be headed next.
This episode features Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato.
John Gallucci, CEO of JAG Physical Therapy, joins PT Pintcast for a conversation about business, failure, community, mentorship, branding, and building a physical therapy company that lasts.
John traces his story back to Brooklyn, Staten Island, and his family’s surgical supply business. When consolidation took away his father’s hospital contracts, the family lost the business and the home John grew up in. That experience became one of his defining lessons: you are never smarter than the curve. Understand it, adapt to it, and do not assume history will protect you.
He also shares how he found physical therapy at 13, how mentors shaped his career, and how JAG Physical Therapy grew from one clinic into 155 community-based clinics. For John, the number matters less than the model: every clinic has to be ingrained in its own community.
The episode also covers The JAG Method, his books on soccer and baseball injury prevention, why the company name came from his initials, how opening the second clinic was driven by not wanting to lose a great clinician, and what a one-on-one conversation with Gene Simmons taught him about branding, audience, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
John’s parting shot is simple: never take no for an answer. If you want it, go get it. If you get knocked down, get back up. You only go through once.
Your clinic is already full of content. You just may not be noticing it.
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Tony Maritato and Jimmy McKay dig into what is actually working in physical therapy content right now.
Jimmy shares what he is learning from LinkedIn, including why heat maps, rankings, dogs, sneakers, and “PT but make it…” posts perform well. The reason is not magic. People engage when they can identify with something, argue with it, correct it, or add themselves to the story.
Tony shares what is working on Facebook, including AI-generated knee replacement images, real patient photos, simple text prompts, and posts that invite patients to talk about their own experience. Some of the highest-performing posts are not polished videos. They are simple, direct, and built for conversation.
That leads to a bigger point: media should be social. Clinics do not need to produce perfect videos. They need to tell real stories, ask better questions, and get more reps.
The conversation then turns to hiring. Jimmy explains why most PT job posts sound exactly the same: competitive salary, fast-paced environment, great culture, mentorship, and all the beige phrases that say almost nothing. If every job post sounds the same, the clinic pays a sameness tax.
Tony pushes the conversation into access and rationing care. If patients cannot get into PT for weeks or months, referral sources may eventually stop referring. Same-day or next-day access may be a differentiator, but it also changes the business model, staffing model, and documentation burden.
The episode wraps with charting beer, call-in show energy, TikTok rage bait, viral injury stories, and the reminder that content creation works like physical therapy: one perfect rep does not change much. The reps do.
Is physical therapy school still worth it?
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay joins from the APTA Connecticut golf fundraiser at Lyman Orchards, where every round comes with a free apple pie. That becomes the first business lesson of the morning: people remember what is worth remarking on.
Tony Maritato, Dave Kittle, and Jimmy use that idea to talk about what makes a clinic memorable, why healthcare defaults to being bland, and how practices can show their value instead of just saying they are different.
Then the crew tackles the bigger question: is becoming a physical therapist still worth it?
Jimmy says it depends. Dave says yes, if you choose the right school, manage debt, and understand the opportunities available. Tony says the degree is an asset, but only if you use it in today’s world instead of trying to practice like it is 2002.
The conversation also covers Dave’s new video strategy in New York City, recording patient care with consent, using anonymized patient stories, AI in PT education, and how future DPT students should be using AI as a study partner.
Then Dave shares a $652 refrigerator repair story that turns into a surprisingly useful PT business lesson about urgency, diagnostic fees, same-day service, customer education, and selling access to expertise.
The takeaway: physical therapy is still worth it, but the old story is dead. The opportunity is still there for people willing to be modern, visible, creative, and clear about the value they provide.
This episode of PT Breakfast Club starts with Jimmy McKay reporting from Prompt HQ after a trip to Portland for APTA’s Payment Summit and House of Delegates.
Jimmy explains how he got in trouble for live tweeting the House of Delegates, why he likes the word “payment” more than “reimbursement,” and what it felt like watching the profession debate policy language in real time.
Dave Kittle pushes hard on the bigger question: has payment advocacy actually moved the needle for physical therapy? If insurance companies and Medicare are not meaningfully increasing payment, should more PTs stop waiting and build direct-to-consumer cash-pay offers?
Tony Maritato adds the counterpoint: maybe some advocacy success is measured by slowing the decline, not producing giant wins.
Then the show turns into a business strategy clinic thanks to Grandpa the Mailbox Guy.
For $320, he solves the whole mailbox problem. No hourly rate. No overexplaining. No “here are the 17 steps.” Just a clear result at a clear price.
The crew applies that lesson to PT, including grab bar installation, home safety consults, cash-pay evaluations, AI content ideas, therapist recruiting, viral video formats, and what practices should do when a clinician calls out sick.
The takeaway: keep it stunningly simple. The customer does not want your process. They want the problem solved.
What does Sophie Cunningham have to do with physical therapy?
More than you might think.
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Tony Maritato, Dave Kittle, and Jimmy McKay start with WNBA attention, athlete branding, Tom Brady publicity stunts, and the uncomfortable truth that the biggest money often comes from what surrounds the game, not the game itself.
Then the crew brings that back to PT.
If a physical therapist wants wealth, freedom, or leverage, maybe patient care is not the whole vehicle. Maybe the opportunity is media, ownership, products, digital offers, real estate, consulting, or something built around the clinical identity.
Jimmy shares a “show and tell” prompt for clinic owners: what is one thing in your clinic you are irrationally proud of? A coffee setup, a mural, a workflow, a teammate, a clinic dog, a zip line. The stuff clinics usually bury may actually be the thing patients remember.
From there, the conversation turns to job posts, salary expectations, retention, recruiting, and why PT jobs need their own baseball cards. Salary matters, but it is only the floor. The real question is what the job actually feels like once you are inside it.
The back half gets into Hormozi-style premium offers, virtual assistants, Meta ads, Facebook revenue, insurance documentation mistakes, Google review mining with AI, and Jimmy’s scooter ride to Prompt HQ.
That becomes the final metaphor: the golden mile problem. AI can give information, but people still need help turning information into action, context, accountability, and progress.
The takeaway: AI may remove the visits that never needed to be visits. But complex care, human judgment, and the last mile of implementation are still incredibly valuable.
What if physical therapy is not bad at care, but bad at naming, packaging, and selling the thing patients actually want?
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay, Tony Maritato, and Dave Kittle start with Dave’s poker night in New York City and end up in a much bigger conversation about relationship-building, recruiting, cash-pay offers, performance training, AI, and why clinics may need to stop selling visits.
The crew talks about how poker night, PT pub nights, student events, and live experiences can create better connections between clinicians, students, employers, and practice owners. Instead of another stale job fair, what if recruiting looked more like a room people actually wanted to be in?
Then Tony raises the bigger identity question: should everything delivered by a physical therapist be called physical therapy? Or should clinics start naming the service more clearly, like performance training delivered by a physical therapist?
Dave breaks down a real cash-pay experiment at Concierge Pain Relief, including a paid evaluation, a value stack, and a results-based plan of care instead of selling visit by visit. That sparks a deeper discussion about why selling transformation is harder than selling a commodity, why clinicians struggle with large dollar amounts, and how repetition, call recording, AI feedback, and coaching can make value communication stronger.
The episode closes with AI’s future role in patient decision-making. Patients may increasingly use their own AI tools to evaluate offers, compare options, and decide whether a package makes sense.
The final takeaway: clarity beats complexity, and clear beats clever every time.
Physical therapy has always told students some version of the same story:
Work hard.
Get the degree.
Help people.
There will be a job waiting.
But what happens when the math starts to break?
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay and Tony Maritato start with a post from Richard Severin about the financial viability of the physical therapy profession. The conversation quickly moves into PT school ROI, student debt, academic program pressure, and whether the next generation of students is more willing to ask the uncomfortable question:
Is this still worth it?
Tony argues that the profession may be facing a bigger identity problem than it wants to admit. If a patient’s desired outcome is less pain and better function, PT is only one possible delivery model. AI, tech-enabled MSK platforms, personal trainers, hospital systems, cash-pay clinics, PTAs, techs, and other professions may all compete to deliver parts of what PT has traditionally owned.
Jimmy pushes the business angle: if you own a private practice, you are not just in the physical therapy business. You are in the marketing business, the patient attraction business, the hiring business, the customer experience business, and the human resources business.
The second half of the episode turns into a practical marketing lab. Jimmy and Tony critique a listener’s marketing pitch about targeting new families moving into a clinic’s area, then break down why so much AI-generated healthcare marketing feels cheap, loud, and generic. They use classic advertising examples like Rolls-Royce, Grey Poupon, Holiday Inn, and Volkswagen to show how better strategy leads to better creative.
The episode closes with Prompt’s Career Connection program and the idea that maybe some clinicians do not need to leave physical therapy. Maybe they just need to leave the wrong job.
Key IdeasWould you become a physical therapist again?
That question sits underneath this episode of PT Breakfast Club with Jimmy McKay, Tony Maritato, and Dave Kittle.
The conversation starts with physical therapy burnout. Tony reacts to a survey suggesting nearly half of PTs report burnout, and the crew debates what burnout actually means. Is it exhaustion? Cynicism? Reduced effectiveness? Or has the word become a catch-all for low pay, paperwork, bad bosses, student loans, long hours, and the general sensation that work has become a haunted spreadsheet?
Jimmy shares a LinkedIn poll asking what clinicians really mean when they say they want fewer patients. Do they want more time with each patient? A buffer between visits? Both? Or do they simply want less work?
Dave talks about hiring clinicians for a concierge/cash-pay model and why he wants people who may want a better model, but are not publicly torching their current employer or profession online.
Then the conversation turns to the big career question: would Tony and Dave become PTs again? Would they recommend physical therapy to their kids? The answer is complicated. PT can still be a great career, but only if clinicians understand the game they are actually entering.
The back half of the episode shifts into social media and clinic growth. Tony explains how he is using Meta AI, ChatGPT, and Gemini to analyze his Facebook content, where he generated massive reach and meaningful revenue from simple posts. Jimmy connects it to his talk with Colorado PT students: don’t create “social media.” Create media that is social.
The takeaway:
Attention leads to trust. Trust leads to action.
In This Episode“Prior Authorization Escape Room: nobody has escaped yet.”
“Burnout has become the catch-all for ‘work sucks.’”
“Patients stop becoming Mrs. Smith and start becoming the ten o’clock.”
“When you say you want fewer patients, what are you actually asking for?”
“You don’t want the person looking for your job opportunity to fix their life.”
“Know the game before choosing the career.”
“Don’t create social media. Create media that is social.”
“People love to talk about themselves.”
“Attention leads to trust. Trust leads to action.”
“Don’t spend a dollar on anything until you do 100 repetitions.”
“If you’re staying the same, you’re left behind.”
This episode of PT Breakfast Club starts with a simple question:
What should an EMR actually do?
Tony Maritato and Jimmy McKay discuss the divide between the clinical and administrative sides of EMRs, why AI should be more than ambient documentation, and how the future of physical therapy technology should make clinicians better instead of turning them into data-entry horses with name badges.
Jimmy introduces the idea of the centaur vs reverse centaur: good technology combines human reasoning with machine horsepower. Bad technology makes the human serve the machine.
From there, the conversation expands into wearable data, RTM, patient apps, Peloton, video games, hospitality, software, and why PT may need to steal ideas from outside healthcare to build something patients and clinicians actually want to use.
The crew also talks about Sean Pastuch and Active Life, the space between physical therapy and fitness, trainers “stepping on toes,” UnitedHealthcare reimbursement, the reality of $60 visits, price anchoring, and why Dick’s Sporting Goods may have a better patient engagement lesson than most healthcare conferences.
The final message:
Understand what game you’re playing.
In This Episode“The EMR should work for me. I shouldn’t work for the EMR.”
“We want to be centaurs, not reverse centaurs.”
“We don’t need more data. We need useful data at the moment of care.”
“RTM fails when it feels like homework.”
“We keep trying to make the EMR incrementally suck less.”
“The answer is not coming from inside healthcare.”
“Are you mad they’re doing it, or are you mad they’re doing it better than you?”
“Attention leads to trust. Trust leads to action.”
“Understand what game you’re playing.”
Today on PT Breakfast Club, we’re talking physical therapy business, cash PT positioning, fall recovery, and the uncomfortable question: are trainers reaching patients better than physical therapists?
Jimmy McKay, Tony Meritato, and Dave Kittle dig into whether PTs are defending the wrong thing: the license, the title, the visit, the referral, the insurance model, or the certification.
The conversation starts with concierge/activity-based PT, including the idea of a physical therapist joining an older adult on the golf course to help them safely return to something they love. Then Tony brings up an Instagram trainer teaching older adults fall recovery and big movement strategies. Is that physical therapy? Occupational therapy? Personal training? Practicing without a license? Or just useful?
From there, the crew gets into cash-based physical therapy, premium patient experience, why “1-on-1 care” is not enough as a value proposition, and how concierge PT can position itself around fewer handoffs, less confusion, and more continuity.
Plus: Tony explains why he sells an experience instead of physical therapy, Dave shares early results from his direct mail/postcard campaign, and Jimmy closes with the bigger lesson: understand what game you’re playing.
In this episode:
• Concierge golf PT and activity-based care
• Trainer-led fall recovery and the PT license debate
• Cash PT vs insurance-based PT positioning
• Patient experience, handoffs, and continuity
• Why small clinics can create magic
• Direct mail, postcards, and analog marketing
• Understanding the game you’re actually playing
Chapters:
00:00 PT Breakfast Club intro
00:56 Concierge golf PT and activity-based care
03:52 How to price premium PT experiences
10:52 Trainer-led fall recovery: PT, OT, or just useful?
14:29 Is the PT license really the moat?
17:45 Are trainers doing it better?
18:04 Uber, Airbnb, and PT disruption
21:30 Why cash PT needs better positioning
24:44 You’re buying fewer handoffs
30:08 “I don’t sell physical therapy. I sell an experience.”
31:40 Why small clinics can create magic
33:52 Hiring the right PT for premium care
42:55 Dave’s postcard campaign results
49:01 Is analog marketing coming back?
53:37 Understand what game you’re playing
Follow:
Tony Meritato: Total Therapy Solution
Dave Kittle: Concierge Pain Relief / The Dave Kittle Show
Jimmy McKay: PT Pintcast
This livestream is for conversation and entertainment only, not medical, legal, billing, or business advice.
#PhysicalTherapy #PTBusiness #CashPT
Being medically cleared does not always mean someone feels capable of returning to the life they actually want.
In this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy McKay sits down with Dr. Sean Pastuch, founder of Active Life and author of Live More, Hurt Less, to explore the “messy middle” between physical therapy and fitness.
A patient may be able to work, drive, sleep, and complete every activity of daily living. But can they run competitively? Lift heavy weights? Play with their children? Trust their body again?
Sean argues that temporary restrictions can quietly become permanent beliefs. A diagnosis may provide relief and clarity, but without the right conversation, it can also become an identity and a permission slip to live smaller.
Jimmy and Sean discuss:
• The difference between being cleared and being capable
• Why discharge is not always the end of recovery
• How healthcare language can unintentionally make people feel fragile
• Why chronic pain has physical, psychological, and social dimensions
• How PTs can find fitness professionals they trust
• Why patients need to clearly communicate the life they want to return to
• The problem with telling someone their pain is “all in their head”
• How PTs and fitness coaches can collaborate without competing
• Why Sean believes people are both the cause and solution to many of their problems
• The ideas behind Sean’s book, Live More, Hurt Less
ABOUT SEAN PASTUCH
Dr. Sean Pastuch has spent more than two decades working at the intersection of healthcare and fitness. He began his career as a personal trainer, became a clinician, founded Active Life, and built his work around helping people move from medically cleared to genuinely capable.
CONNECT WITH SEAN
Website: https://www.drseanpastuch.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drseanpastuch
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-pastuch-02ba88109
Learn more about Active Life professionals and the coach network discussed in the episode at ActiveLifeProfessional.com.
Find Live More, Hurt Less through Sean’s website or wherever books are sold.
ABOUT PT PINTCAST
PT Pintcast is where smart people in healthcare come to make noise. Hosted by Jimmy McKay, PT, DPT, the show delivers conversations, not presentations, about the people, ideas, and uncomfortable questions shaping physical therapy.
Follow PT Pintcast and share this episode with a physical therapist, coach, or healthcare professional who works with people trying to return to the activities that make life feel like theirs.
Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato open with a prediction: Sophie Cunningham becomes the WNBA's first billionaire — not from basketball, but from the same social-media gravity that's already reshaping how physical therapists build wealth outside patient care. Jimmy joins mid-scooter-commute to Hoboken and the conversation turns practical fast: why PR only works as a growth lever when you're the underdog, why "dumbing down" clinical education is the wrong frame (scaling it down is the right one), and why a Career Connection candidate's real question is never "what's the salary" — it's "what's the floor, and how high is the ceiling."
The back half digs into hiring and retention: why money alone rarely explains why a PT leaves, the concept of "career cuffing season" (staying somewhere out of convenience, not conviction), and a "baseball card" framework for evaluating a job the way you'd evaluate a player — caseload, culture, mentorship, not just take-home pay. Jimmy also walks through the AI prompt he's been running against clinics' Google reviews to surface hidden strengths (and hidden problems), and the crew closes on the "golden mile problem" — the case for why AI can automate the diagnosis but will never replace the person who shows up, adjusts the plan, and gets someone back to their life.
Topics covered: PR and personal brand in healthcare, cash-pay retention economics, clinician compensation structure, hiring and recruiting friction, documentation compliance pitfalls, AI-assisted marketing, and the limits of AI in hands-on care.
On this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay, Tony Maritato, and Dave Kittle unpack one of the profession’s loudest conversations: burnout.
But instead of stopping at “PTs are burned out,” they push into the more useful question: what are clinicians actually asking for when they say they want fewer patients?
More time? A buffer between visits? Better systems? Less emotional carryover? A job that matches the version of the profession they thought they were entering?
The crew also asks the dangerous dinner-party question: would you become a PT again? Tony and Dave both say yes, but with caveats. They’d understand market forces sooner, think differently about ownership, and build earlier.
In the second half, the conversation pivots to social media, AI, and clinic growth. Tony shares how he’s using Meta AI, ChatGPT, and Gemini to analyze what is actually working across his content. Dave explains how TikTok is already creating real patient conversations for Concierge Pain Relief. Jimmy ties it together with a lesson from his talk to PT students in Colorado:
Attention leads to trust. Trust leads to action.
And the big takeaway for clinics?
Stop trying to create “social media.”
Create media that is social.
Big Ideas
Best Line
“Don’t try to create social media. Try to create media that is social.”
Physical therapists spend years learning how to help people—but almost no time learning how to reach them.
Jimmy McKay is joined by Tony Maritato and Dave Kittle to unpack what actually works on social media for physical therapists, clinic owners and students. Tony shares how simple Facebook posts generated more than a million views and approximately $2,000 in ad revenue over 28 days. Dave explains how clinicians can turn their online presence into local patients, professional leverage and a stronger career.
The crew also debates whether creators should optimize for algorithms, audiences or actual business results—and why polished production may be less effective than simply pulling out your phone and hitting record.
This episode covers:
Featuring Tony Maritato, Dave Kittle and Jimmy McKay.
This week on PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay and Dave Kittle start with a simple patient text exchange and end up inside one of the biggest problems in physical therapy:
Expectation rarely matches reality.
Dave shares how he responds when a prospective patient asks whether his clinic is in-network or out-of-network. Instead of dodging the question or pushing the sale, he explains the difference between choosing the lowest-cost option and choosing a higher-touch model.
That opens the door to a larger conversation about why patients often disappear after visit three.
Is it really because patients do not care?
Is it because they will not do their home exercises?
Or is the experience inconsistent enough that leaving is actually a rational consumer response?
Jimmy and Dave talk about the in-network volume model, cash-pay customer acquisition costs, personal training, patient switching, the third-place concept, Equinox, Planet Fitness, Starbucks, Ironman, APTA, payment advocacy, and whether physical therapy can ever become more than a series of appointments.
The episode closes with a practical reminder: the easiest growth lever is not always finding new patients. Sometimes it is serving the people who already trust you at a much higher level.
In this episode“If you launched a video game where 70% of the people played it three times and never played again, would you blame the player? No. You’d blame the game.”
This week on PT Breakfast Club, Tony Maritato, Dave Kittle, and Jimmy McKay look at a real physical therapy Instagram ad and ask a simple question:
Would this actually make someone take action?
The answer leads to a bigger conversation about physical therapy marketing, cluttered ads, weak offers, fake scarcity, AI-generated creative, trendjacking, TikTok Shop, LinkedIn recruiting, and how clinics can earn attention without looking like everyone else.
The crew talks about why “free physical therapy” may not be the irresistible offer some clinics think it is, why too many visuals and calls-to-action can make an ad feel cheap, and why AI can help create marketing but still needs a human being to check whether the final product makes sense.
They also get into Dave’s orange square LinkedIn post, Tony’s AI-generated Home Depot knee replacement image, and whether viral content is worth anything if it does not connect back to revenue.
The big takeaway:
You cannot interrupt a pattern if you do not have a pattern.
In this episode“You can’t interrupt a pattern if you don’t have a pattern.”
Physical therapists keep saying they provide value — but then many clinics hand patients a confusing menu of visits, rates, packages, discounts, weekday pricing, weekend pricing, and “per visit” math.
That confusion may be costing you patients.
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Tony Meritato, Dave Kittle, and Jimmy McKay break down a real cash pay physical therapy pricing problem and ask a bigger question:
Are physical therapists selling the wrong thing?
Patients are not really buying “visits.”
They are buying relief, confidence, access, trust, and a clear plan to get back to the life they want.
This conversation covers cash based physical therapy, private practice pricing, price anchoring, simplifying your offer, patient decision-making, and why “confuse me, lose me” might be one of the most important marketing lessons for any physical therapy business.
We also talk about AI coaching, business coaching, babysitter economics, roof replacement psychology, pharma advertising, digital physical therapy platforms, and why PTs need to stop talking themselves out of money.
In this episode:
00:00 PT Breakfast Club opens
00:30 Tony’s accidental weight-loss strategy
03:00 Using AI for running, fitness, and accountability
07:30 AI vs human coaching
12:45 Dave’s cash pay PT pricing card
14:30 Why too many numbers confuse patients
17:40 If price is the biggest thing, you compete on price
18:40 Price anchoring and why it works
21:15 Should PTs sell visits, appointments, or outcomes?
24:30 The simple buying journey: call, evaluation, plan of care
29:30 What cash pay physical therapists are charging
36:15 Babysitter pricing as a value lesson
44:30 Buying back time and unlocking value
47:00 What PT can learn from pharma and insurance ads
49:30 Selling hope instead of visits
58:00 Sword, Kaia, and where PT investment is going
01:00:15 Parting shots
Hosts:
Tony Maritato
Dave Kittle
Jimmy McKay
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay, Tony Maritato, and Dave Kittle look outside healthcare to ask a practical clinic question: what are other industries doing to create demand, loyalty, and repeat behavior that physical therapy keeps ignoring?
The conversation starts with Amazon Prime Day and the idea that the event matters more than the discount. From there, the group talks about how PT clinics could use reactivation campaigns, memberships, bundled services, and community-based models to keep patients engaged beyond a single episode of care.
Key insights from the episode:
• Prime Day is not just about discounts. It is about creating an event people plan around.
• PT clinics can use the same thinking for return-to-run weeks, reactivation campaigns, product education, or seasonal service bundles.
• Membership models work because they create belonging, not just access.
• Clinic community can become a real differentiator when hospitals and larger systems compete on network control.
• Patients may come for PT, but they stay for trust, social connection, and a familiar place where they feel known.
• The profession may need to think differently about hiring, including second-career professionals who bring life experience and patient connection.
• Healthcare often fails to bundle services in a way that makes the next step obvious for patients.
Why this matters for PTs and clinic owners:
If your clinic only thinks in terms of visits, referrals, and discharge plans, you may miss the bigger business opportunity. Patients need care, but they also respond to timing, community, convenience, and clear offers. The clinics that understand that may be better positioned to retain patients and build long-term value.
GUEST LINKS
Tony Maritato
YouTube: Total Therapy Solution
Dave Kittle
Website: https://conciergepainrelief.com
YouTube: The Dave Kittle Show
Jimmy McKay
YouTube: PT Pintcast
SPONSORS
SaRA Health
https://sarahealth.com
EMPOWER EMR
https://empoweremr.com
U.S. Physical Therapy
https://usph.com
SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter
https://x.com/PTPintcast
Website
https://www.ptpintcast.com/
This episode of PT Breakfast Club is a practical conversation about value, access, content, and revenue in physical therapy. Jimmy McKay, Tony Maritato, and Dave Kittle start with a wild sports pricing example, then bring the conversation back to the clinic: why do PTs struggle to charge for expertise when other industries clearly understand premium access?
The group digs into insurance reimbursement, cash-pay models, YouTube memberships, creator burnout, and why patient education content may become a serious business asset for PTs and clinic owners.
Key Insights
• People pay for access, status, trust, and simplicity. PTs need to understand which of those they are actually offering.
• Billing codes can train clinicians to think in units instead of outcomes, expertise, and value.
• Premium PT care and broad access are not opposites. A clinician can charge more for high-touch care while also creating lower-cost education through content, memberships, and video libraries.
• YouTube memberships may be a practical way for PTs to build education-based revenue without building a custom app.
• The biggest content barrier for many PTs is not editing, gear, or planning. It is confidence, consistency, and fear of being judged.
• A shared rehab creator network or launchpad could help PTs, OTs, and SLPs build audiences faster than working alone.
• Corporate content often fails when it feels like an ad too early. Trust has to come before the close.
Why This Matters For PTs And Clinic Owners
Clinic owners are under pressure from reimbursement, staffing, burnout, and rising patient expectations. This episode pushes the profession to think beyond the visit-based model and ask: what else can expert clinicians build with their knowledge?
For individual PTs, the message is simple: your expertise can create value outside the treatment room, but only if you are willing to publish, test, learn, and keep going.
Hosts / Guests
Jimmy McKay
PT Pintcast
Tony Maritato
Total Therapy Solution - Physical Therapy
https://www.youtube.com/c/TotalTherapySolution
Dave Kittle
The Dave Kittle Show
https://www.youtube.com/@thedavekittleshow
Sponsors
SaRA Health
https://sarahealth.com
EMPOWER EMR
https://empoweremr.com
U.S. Physical Therapy
https://usph.com
Subscribe & Follow
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter
https://x.com/PTPintcast
Website
https://www.ptpintcast.com/
This episode is a practical clinic-owner conversation about marketing that actually has a job to do.
Jimmy McKay, Dave Kittle, and Tony Maritato talk through content creation, direct mail, therapist branding, anonymous posts, AI comments, and why PT clinic owners need to understand the game they are playing before spending money or time.
Key insights from the discussion:
• Content should attract something specific: patients, referral partners, or staff.
• Local positioning matters more than generic posting.
• Direct mail can work when clinic owners commit to testing over months, not days.
• A new therapist can become a visible local authority if the clinic builds content around them.
• Seasonality affects some PT clinics heavily, especially in markets with snowbirds or summer travel.
• Anonymous posting and AI comments may create noise, but they rarely build trust.
• Showing real clinic interactions can help other PTs learn and give patients a clearer sense of the experience.
Why this matters for busy PTs and clinic owners:
Most clinics do not have a content problem. They have a positioning problem. This episode shows how to connect marketing activity to real business goals: booked evaluations, stronger staff visibility, better local awareness, and more trust before the first patient visit.
GUEST LINKS
Dave Kittle
https://conciergepainrelief.com
YouTube: The Dave Kittle Show
Tony Maritato
YouTube: Total Therapy Solution
Jimmy McKay
YouTube: PT Pintcast
SPONSORS
SaRA Health
https://sarahealth.com
EMPOWER EMR
https://empoweremr.com
U.S. Physical Therapy
https://usph.com
SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter
https://x.com/PTPintcast
Website
https://www.ptpintcast.com/
Chronic pain patients are some of the toughest cases in physical therapy—not because they’re complicated, but because they’re often misunderstood.
In this episode, we break down why treating chronic pain like an acute injury leads to poor outcomes—and what to do instead. The shift is simple but powerful: stop focusing only on tissue and start understanding the person.
If you run a clinic or treat patients daily, this matters because better conversations lead to better outcomes, stronger patient relationships, and more consistent retention.
What you’ll learn:
• Why chronic pain is different from acute pain
• How to identify non-tissue drivers of pain
• The role of therapeutic alliance in outcomes
• Why listening is a clinical skill—not a soft skill
• How to improve patient retention starting day one
Guest Links:
Website: megansteelept.com
Instagram: @painscienceprof
YouTube: Unpacking Pain Podcast
Sponsors:
SaRA Health — Helping clinics generate revenue between visits with remote monitoring
EMPOWER EMR — Built for PTs who want faster, cleaner documentation
U.S. Physical Therapy — Supporting PT careers and clinic growth nationwide
Most episodes, Jimmy McKay is the one asking the questions. Not this time.
In this episode, Amit Gagliani flips the script and turns the mic on the host himself — using AI-generated questions to dig into the story Jimmy rarely tells. You'll hear how a morning announcement in sixth grade led to running a rock radio station, interning at K-Rock (yes, Howard Stern's station), and eventually walking away from the dream job he'd had since he was 11 years old.
Then: why he almost went to law school, spent a year in business school, and finally found physical therapy through a triathlete friend on a bike ride.
Plus — what radio actually taught Jimmy about healthcare communication, why the PT profession's biggest problem has completely shifted in the last decade, and the one thing he says every clinic owner needs to stop saying on their website.
If you've ever wondered who Jimmy McKay is when he's not the one holding the mic — this is it.
Topics covered:
Most physical therapists don’t have a clinical problem — they have a business model problem.
In this episode, Jimmy sits down with Courtney Morse to unpack what happens when you step away from traditional outpatient care and rethink how a PT clinic should operate. From burnout and stacked schedules to launching a cash-based practice out of a hair salon, this conversation shows what’s possible when PTs stop undervaluing their services.
Courtney shares how mindset, pricing, and business structure play a bigger role in success than most clinicians realize. He also breaks down why so many PTs hesitate to start a practice — and what actually gets them moving.
If you’re a clinic owner or thinking about becoming one, this episode gives you a clearer picture of what’s holding you back — and what to do next.
GUEST LINKS
• Courtney Morse
SPONSORS
SaRA Health — Increase revenue between visits with automated patient engagement
EMPOWER EMR — Documentation built for PTs, not against them
U.S. Physical Therapy — Growth, mentorship, and career pathways for PTs
???? https://usph.com/
Burnout in physical therapy isn’t just about workload—it’s about how clinicians process stress over time.
In this episode, Jimmy talks with Charles Inniss about why optimism is not a personality trait, but a trainable skill. They break down how burnout develops in PT careers, why cynicism follows exhaustion, and what clinicians and clinic owners can actually do about it.
If you run a clinic, this matters because burnout directly impacts retention, patient outcomes, and culture. If you’re a clinician, this gives you a practical framework to regain control of your career experience.
What you’ll learn:
• Why PT burnout happens even in “good” jobs
• The difference between exhaustion and cynicism
• How optimism works like a muscle
• Simple daily habits to improve mental resilience
• How clinic culture contributes to burnout (or prevents it)
Get His Book: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Optimism-Game-Depression-Happiness/dp/1967115281
Sponsors:
SaRA Health – helping clinics increase revenue without adding staff
EMPOWER EMR – faster documentation and better workflows
U.S. Physical Therapy – clinician-led growth and career support
Decision fatigue isn’t just a mindset issue—it’s a business problem.
In this episode, Jimmy, Tony, and Dave break down how hesitation around hiring, outsourcing, and systems decisions slows clinic growth. From front desk staffing to outsourcing intake, they show how trying to make the “perfect” decision often leads to doing nothing—and that’s where clinics lose momentum.
One of the biggest insights: the right person in the right role matters more than the job title. A clinically minded operator at the front desk can outperform cheaper outsourced solutions because they think, solve problems, and prevent issues before they happen.
Key Takeaways:
• Decision fatigue delays growth in PT clinics
• Making a “wrong” decision is often better than no decision
• Front desk roles can drive revenue when staffed strategically
• Outsourcing fails when expectations and execution don’t match
• Clinic owners must prioritize speed and adaptability
Sponsors:
SaRA Health — helping clinics increase revenue between visits
EMPOWER EMR — faster, cleaner documentation workflows
U.S. Physical Therapy — career growth and clinic partnerships
Subscribe & Follow:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
Twitter/X: https://x.com/PTPintcast
Website: https://www.ptpintcast.com/
This episode challenges one of the biggest assumptions in physical therapy: that offering more services leads to better outcomes and business growth. Instead, the conversation explores how narrowing your focus can improve efficiency, hiring, patient experience, and long-term profitability.
Key Insights:
• Clinics trying to serve everyone end up differentiating to no one
• Simplifying services improves operational efficiency and staff clarity
• Hiring becomes easier when your model is clearly defined
• EMR and technology can create defensible business advantages
• Most PT clinics blend together—clear positioning is rare and valuable
• The biggest missed opportunity in PT is saying “no” to the wrong patients
• Business skills—not clinical skills—often determine clinic success
Why This Matters To PT Owners:
If your clinic feels chaotic, hard to staff, or difficult to grow, the issue may not be effort—it may be lack of focus. A clear model reduces friction across hiring, operations, and marketing.
Guest Links & Resources:
Tony Maritato – Total Therapy Solutions (YouTube)
This episode dives into one of the biggest shifts happening in physical therapy right now: the gap between what patients need and what insurance allows.
Jimmy, Tony, and Dave break down:
• Why most AI solutions in healthcare never make it past pilot phase
• How insurance limitations are shaping care delivery
• The rise of hybrid and post-rehab fitness models
• Why clinical skill is no longer the main differentiator
• How communication, sales, and patient buy-in drive outcomes
Key Insights:
• 95% of AI pilots in healthcare never scale—adoption is the real problem
• Insurance caps are forcing clinics to find new care models
• Neuro and long-term patients are underserved by traditional PT
• Cash-based PT is growing because patients value time and outcomes
• Pre/post testing isn’t just clinical—it’s a sales and trust tool
• PTs are trained to “not lose,” but progress requires risk
Why This Matters:
If you’re a clinic owner, this is about adapting your model before it’s forced on you.
If you’re a staff PT, this is about understanding what actually creates value in today’s market.
Most physical therapy clinics don’t have a marketing problem—they have a measurement problem.
In this episode, Jimmy and Andrea break down why marketing often gets labeled as a cost instead of a growth driver, and what needs to change for clinics to actually see ROI.
If you’re a clinic owner or leader trying to justify marketing spend, this episode gives you a clear framework to connect activity to revenue.
Key Insights:
Why This Matters to PT Owners:
Resources & Links:
Andrea (LinkedIn referenced in episode)
Sponsors:
SaRA Health — Automate patient follow-up and generate revenue between visits
???? sarahealth.com
EMPOWER EMR — Built for PT workflows, faster documentation
???? empoweremr.com
U.S. Physical Therapy — Career growth and clinic support
???? usph.com
Subscribe & Follow:
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter
Website
This episode dives into one of the biggest frustrations in physical therapy: feeling unheard at work. Rebecca Griffith breaks down how to communicate with leadership, advocate for patients, and avoid being labeled “difficult.”
Key Insights:
• Most leadership decisions are system-driven, not personal
• Curiosity beats criticism in tough conversations
• Timing, tone, and delivery matter as much as the message
• Not all feedback moments are created equal
• Small organizations allow more personalized communication
What This Means for PTs & Clinic Owners:
• You can advocate without damaging relationships
• Better communication leads to more influence—not less
• Understanding the system helps you navigate it
• Emotional reactions can sabotage valid concerns
• Leadership communication is a learnable skill
Tactical Takeaways:
• Ask: “Help me understand the goal of this decision”
• Write questions first—don’t react in the moment
• Clarify: is this decision final or open for input?
• Choose the right time and setting for feedback
• Focus on system impact—not just personal impact
Guest
Rebecca Griffith, PT, DPT
Sponsors
SaRA Health – patient engagement solutions
EMPOWER EMR – faster, smarter documentation
U.S. Physical Therapy – clinic growth and career pathways
This episode breaks down how AI is being used inside real physical therapy clinics—not as hype, but as a tool to improve operations.
The biggest mistake clinics make is treating AI like a feature instead of building it into workflows. When
Sal Aprea from Flagler Health shows you that done right, AI helps reduce no-shows, improves patient engagement, and creates new revenue opportunities without adding staff.
Key Insights:
Guest shares how clinics can:
This episode explores how AI, business strategy, and human relationships intersect in physical therapy—and what clinic owners should actually do about it.
Key Insights:
• AI can scale listening and communication—but not human connection
• In-person relationships still drive referrals and business growth
• Other industries (sports, retail) are winning by owning attention and data
• PT clinics are sitting on valuable data but not using it strategically
• Partnerships and distribution matter more than tactics
What This Means for PT Owners:
• Use AI to enhance—not replace—patient communication
• Double down on in-person referral relationships
• Look outside healthcare for business models that work
• Start leveraging your EMR data beyond billing
Guest Links & Resources
Tony Maritato YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TotalTherapySolutions
Dave Kittle YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDaveKittleShow
Sponsors
SaRA Health – helps automate patient engagement and improve outcomes
EMPOWER EMR – faster documentation and better workflows
U.S. Physical Therapy – career growth and clinic support
Most physical therapists think their career path is set the moment they graduate. This episode challenges that idea.
Elana Yavetz shares how she transitioned from clinical practice into a project management role in tech—and why her PT background was actually her biggest advantage, not a limitation.
If you’re a clinic owner, this changes how you think about your team. If you’re a clinician, it changes how you think about your future.
Key Insights:
Practical Takeaways:
Guest Links:
LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/elanayavetz
Instagram: @eyav_
Sponsors:
SaRA Health — Increase patient engagement and RTM revenue
EMPOWER EMR — Faster workflows, better documentation
U.S. Physical Therapy — Career growth without burnout
Subscribe & Follow:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter: https://x.com/PTPintcast
Website: https://www.ptpintcast.com/
In this episode of PT Pintcast, we unpack a major shift happening inside the physical therapy profession: the growing divide between high-volume clinics and high-value, premium care models.
From hiring struggles to reimbursement pressure, from patient behavior to AI disruption—this conversation challenges how PTs think about care delivery and business sustainability.
If you're a clinic owner, this episode is less about theory and more about survival.
Key TakeawaysIf you're running a clinic today, you're making decisions about:
This episode helps you understand where the profession is heading—so you don’t get caught building something that won’t last.
Sponsors
SaRA Health
Automate patient follow-ups, improve outcomes, and generate RTM revenue—without adding staff.
EMPOWER EMR
Faster documentation, cleaner workflows, and an EMR built for how PTs actually operate.
U.S. Physical Therapy (USPH)
A national network focused on clinician development, mentorship, and long-term career growth.
???? https://usph.com
Most clinic marketing isn’t failing because of effort—it’s failing because it’s irrelevant.
In this episode, Jimmy and Andrea break down why traditional approaches (press releases, feature updates, polished promos) don’t work anymore—and what actually does.
They explore:
Key takeaway:
Connection beats perfection. Relevance beats volume.
If you’re a PT or clinic owner trying to grow, this episode gives you a system you can actually implement—not just ideas.
9️⃣ Guest CalloutsMost clinicians are trained to treat patients — not lead teams.
So when a physical therapist suddenly becomes a supervisor, director, or clinic leader, it’s common to feel unprepared. That feeling often shows up as imposter syndrome.
In this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy McKay talks with speech-language pathologist and leadership coach Katie Holterman about why imposter syndrome is so common in healthcare and what clinicians can do when it shows up.
They break down how leadership roles appear suddenly in clinical careers, how imposter syndrome affects decision-making inside clinics, and practical ways PTs can build confidence while leading teams.
If you’ve ever sat quietly in a leadership meeting wondering if you belong there — this episode is for you.
Key Insights
• Why clinicians often become leaders without leadership training
• The five profiles of imposter syndrome in healthcare professionals
• How imposter syndrome causes decision paralysis in clinics
• Why asking questions actually increases perceived leadership authority
• The “Actually Factually Good At” list for building leadership confidence
• How shifting from “Do I belong here?” to “What problem am I here to solve?” changes leadership mindset
Guest
Katie Holterman
Sponsors
SaRA Health
Remote care platform helping clinics automate patient check-ins and meet RTM requirements.
EMPOWER EMR
An EMR built specifically for rehab workflows with faster documentation and cleaner operations.
U.S. Physical Therapy
A national network supporting PT clinicians and clinic owners with mentorship and career development.
Subscribe & Follow
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter
Website
Most PT clinic owners assume growth comes from referrals—until those referrals slow down.
In this episode, Lex Lancaster breaks down how patients actually find clinics today and why most PT websites fail to convert visitors into patients. This conversation focuses on practical, actionable strategies clinic owners can use immediately.
Key Takeaways:
• SEO is about getting found by the right patients, not more traffic
• Your website must clearly answer: who you help, what you do, how, and where
• Generalist messaging kills conversions—specificity wins
• Organic traffic builds long-term patient flow without ongoing ad spend
• SEO is a 6–18 month play, not a quick fix
• Content = answering real patient questions consistently
• If your website doesn’t convert, ads will only waste money
Why This Matters
If your clinic relies only on referrals, you’re exposed. SEO and content create a second, scalable pipeline of patients that works even when referrals slow down.
Guest Links
Website: https://www.lexlancaster.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lexlancaster_
Sponsors
SaRA Health — Automates patient engagement and RTM
EMPOWER EMR — Faster workflows built for PTs
U.S. Physical Therapy — Career growth and clinic support
Flagler Health - https://www.flaglerhealth.io/
Subscribe & Follow
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter
Website
Most patients don’t want to be in physical therapy—especially in acute care. That creates friction, resistance, and missed opportunities for better outcomes.
In this episode, Sid Stoddard breaks down a practical communication framework PTs can use immediately to improve patient buy-in without adding time or complexity.
Key Takeaways:
Why this matters:
Better communication = faster buy-in, smoother visits, fewer refusals, and more efficient clinics.
Guest Links:
Sidney Stoddard
https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/sidney-stoddard-2/
What if the problem in healthcare isn’t a lack of data… but the wrong data?
In this episode, Larry Benz joins the show to unpack a quiet shift that’s happening across healthcare:
We’ve started confusing what’s easy to measure with what actually matters.
Star ratings, patient satisfaction scores, and online reviews have become the scoreboard—but they were never designed to measure true clinical excellence.
So what happens when the proxy becomes the point?
???? What You’ll Learn:Larry Benz is a physical therapist and founder of Confluent Health and Evidence In Motion. He’s spent his career building and scaling healthcare organizations—and challenging the assumptions behind how success is measured.
???? Connect & Subscribe:This episode dives into what it actually takes to build a modern physical therapy business — starting with almost nothing and scaling through smart decisions, not big budgets.
Nathan LeMaster shares how he launched a clinic during the pandemic with less than $4,000 and grew it into a multi-state company by focusing on culture, ownership, and patient experience.
Key Insights:
• You don’t need big capital to start — you need sweat equity and relationships
• Burnout in PT is often caused by lack of ownership, not patient volume
• Hiring for passion creates niche growth (runners, wrestlers, women’s health)
• Early-stage clinics should prioritize community presence over social media polish
• Cash-based care raises expectations — and improves outcomes
• Different populations (like pediatrics) may require hybrid models
What This Means for PT Owners:
If your clinic feels stuck, the issue may not be marketing or volume — it may be structure. Ownership, autonomy, and clear positioning create better clinicians and better businesses.
Guest Links:
Website: theempoweru.com
Instagram: @EmpowerU_SD
Sponsors:
SaRA Health — Remote patient engagement that drives revenue
EMPOWER EMR — Documentation built for PT workflows
U.S. Physical Therapy — Growth without losing clinic identity
Subscribe & Follow:
Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
In this episode, Jimmy McKay sits down with Tony Maritato and Dave Kittle to break down what actually works in physical therapy marketing today.
The conversation cuts through the noise around content creation and focuses on what busy PTs and clinic owners need to know: how to get attention, build trust, and turn that into patients.
Key Insights:
• You don’t need high-end production to get results—consistency wins
• Most PTs fail at content because they never start
• Content should be built for the audience, not the clinic
• Social media is optional—but attention is not
• If you won’t do it, hire for it—but don’t ignore it
This episode also explores emerging opportunities like live selling and how attention is increasingly tied to revenue in healthcare.
GUEST LINKS
Tony Maritato — https://www.youtube.com/c/MedicareBilling
Dave Kittle — https://www.youtube.com/@thedavekittleshow/featured
SPONSORS
SaRA Health — Remote care platform helping clinics generate revenue between visits
EMPOWER EMR — Faster documentation and better workflows for PT clinics
U.S. Physical Therapy — Career growth and clinic partnership support
SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
Website: https://www.ptpintcast.com/
Twitter/X: https://x.com/PTPintcast
Most physical therapists know they should negotiate—but few feel confident doing it.
In this episode, Jimmy McKay and Rebekah Griffith break down why negotiation feels uncomfortable in PT and how that hesitation impacts salary, contracts, and clinic growth.
This isn’t about becoming a “salesperson.” It’s about communicating value clearly so you can get paid appropriately and build better professional relationships.
Key Insights:
• Negotiation isn’t about you—it’s about the impact you create
• If you don’t define scope first, price conversations fall apart
• Most PTs start negotiating too late in the conversation
• Asking better questions is more powerful than “selling”
• Saying no is a critical business skill—not a failure
• You need a clear “floor” before entering any negotiation
• Every conversation is a negotiation for information
Why This Matters to PTs & Clinic Owners
If you can’t negotiate:
• You accept lower reimbursement
• You underprice your services
• You limit clinic growth
• You burn out doing work that isn’t aligned
Better negotiation = better business decisions and better patient outcomes.
GUEST
Rebekah Griffith
SPONSORS
SaRA Health
Helping clinics increase revenue between visits with automated patient engagement
EMPOWER EMR
Faster documentation, better workflows, built for PTs
U.S. Physical Therapy
Clinician-led growth and career development opportunities
Most PT clinics still believe growth comes from referrals alone. But patients don’t choose clinics the way they used to.
In this episode, Jimmy breaks down why digital presence is now the first impression—and often the deciding factor—for new patients.
If your clinic isn’t showing up online in a meaningful way, you’re losing patients before they ever call.
Key Insights:
• Digital is now the front door to your clinic
• Referrals still matter—but they’re no longer first
• Word of mouth is still alive, but it’s happening online
• Content builds trust before the first visit
• You can’t “hack” attention—you have to earn it
• Consistency beats one-off marketing efforts
Why This Matters:
A busy clinic owner doesn’t have time for guesswork. This episode gives a clear direction: if you want more patients, you need to be visible, trusted, and consistent online.
SPONSORS
SaRA Health — Helping clinics generate revenue between visits
EMPOWER EMR — Built for speed and PT workflows
U.S. Physical Therapy — Supporting clinicians and clinic growth
Physical therapy feels harder than ever for many clinicians—burnout, declining reimbursement, and career uncertainty are constant conversations.
But what if the problem isn’t the profession… it’s perspective?
In this episode, Derek Landis shares what happens when you step outside the U.S. system and practice in a place where access to care is limited and every PT skill matters.
Key Takeaways:
Why This Matters for Clinic Owners:
If your team feels disengaged, this episode highlights a lever most clinics ignore—creating meaning through impact. Supporting outreach, pro bono work, or mission-driven care can improve morale without changing compensation models.
Guest Links:
Website: https://landis-family-jamaica.epistle.org/
Friends of the Redeemer: https://friendsoftheredeemer.org
Sponsors:
SaRA Health – Helping clinics generate revenue between visits
EMPOWER EMR – Built for faster, cleaner PT workflows
U.S. Physical Therapy – Supporting clinician growth and clinic partnerships
Most physical therapy clinics are tracking metrics—but not all metrics actually matter.
In this episode, Jimmy and Tony break down how KPIs can unintentionally drive the wrong behavior inside your clinic. From arrival rate to cancellation tracking, they explain how focusing on the wrong numbers can lead to worse patient outcomes and stalled business growth.
They also explore a bigger shift: why PT clinic owners should think beyond traditional revenue models and start leveraging attention, content, and alternative income streams.
Key Insights:
Why This Matters:
If you’re a clinic owner, tracking the wrong KPI doesn’t just waste time—it trains your team to prioritize the wrong behaviors. Fixing this can immediately improve patient retention, staff decision-making, and profitability.
GUEST
Tony Maritato
SPONSORS
SaRA Health — https://sarahealth.com
EMPOWER EMR — https://empoweremr.com
U.S. Physical Therapy — https://usph.com
SUBSCRIBE & FOLLOW
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter: https://x.com/PTPintcast
Website: https://www.ptpintcast.com/
Most PTs focus on getting better clinically. The ones who build lasting careers do something different—they get involved.
In this episode, Edie Benner shares how engagement in associations, events, and community directly impacts your career, your clinic, and your long-term satisfaction in the profession.
If you’re feeling stuck, isolated, or b
urned out, this episode gives you a practical path forward.
OPTA Gala Event: https://www.ohiopt.org/event/OPTA75Gala
Key Takeaways
Why This Matters
For clinic owners:
Better connections = better ideas, referrals, and strategy
For staff PTs:
Involvement = faster growth, more opportunity, less burnout
Guest Links
Website: www.arhs.us
Instagram: @adverehabhealthspec
Instagram: @edieknowlton
Sponsors
SaRA Health — Helps clinics generate revenue between visits
EMPOWER EMR — Faster workflows, better clinic operations
U.S. Physical Therapy — Growth, mentorship, and career paths
Subscribe & Follow
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter: https://x.com/PTPintcast
Website: https://www.ptpintcast.com/
Many clinicians feel tension between patient care and productivity targets. In reality, that tension often exists because clinicians were never taught how the business side of healthcare works.
In this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy McKay talks with Katie Holterman about how clinics can bridge the gap between clinical excellence and operational performance.
The discussion focuses on practical ways clinic leaders can introduce metrics without alienating clinicians — and how transparency, standardization, and communication help teams work toward the same goal.
Key Insights From the Episode• Why clinicians often resist productivity metrics
• The role of clinical guardrails in protecting care quality
• Why every clinic needs clear performance metrics
• How dashboards and scorecards improve clinician buy-in
• The leadership mistake that causes teams to reject metrics
• Why some clinical standardization actually improves autonomy
• How value-based care is changing rehab expectations
Practical Takeaways for Clinic Owners• Explain metrics using clinical language, not just business terms
• Show clinicians how documentation protects their license and revenue
• Use scorecards to make performance expectations visible
• Limit KPIs to the few metrics that truly matter
• Connect metrics directly to patient outcomes and clinic sustainability
When clinicians understand why the numbers matter, the conflict between business and care becomes alignment instead of tension.
SponsorsSaRA Health
The remote care platform helping clinics boost revenue through automated patient check-ins and RTM support.
EMPOWER EMR
An EMR designed for rehab clinics with faster documentation and cleaner workflows.
U.S. Physical Therapy
A national network supporting clinic owners and clinicians with growth opportunities and leadership development.
Subscribe & FollowApple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
X / Twitter
Website
Healthcare organizations spend millions on marketing — yet patients often trust a clinician with a phone more than a polished hospital commercial.
In this episode, Jimmy and Andrea unpack why authenticity beats traditional healthcare marketing and how PT clinics can leverage clinician voices to build trust with patients.
They also dive into one uncomfortable truth:
Many clinics believe they have a marketing problem when the real issue is operations and patient experience.
From the “three T’s and three P’s” of clinician content to the role of authenticity in healthcare communication, this conversation gives clinic owners a practical lens for thinking about marketing, retention, and patient trust.
Key TakeawaysAuthentic clinician content often outperforms corporate healthcare advertising.
Clinicians should be empowered to create educational content.
Most clinics underestimate the operational impact on patient retention.
The “three T’s” for clinician content:
Tools, Training, Time.
The “three P’s” for clinic marketing:
People, Process, Product.
Why This Matters for PT ClinicsIf patients trust real clinicians more than traditional marketing, clinics should focus less on polished campaigns and more on empowering clinicians to communicate directly with patients.
The result can be stronger trust, better patient education, and more sustainable growth.
Physical therapists often feel pressure to collect certifications and letters after their name.
But does that actually make better clinicians?
In this episode, Jimmy talks with Clint Serafino and Nate Henry about why the PT profession needs more mentorship, deeper clinical reasoning, and better collaboration across healthcare disciplines.
They also share the story behind Global Physio Training, a nonprofit working to deliver hands-on clinical education to physical therapists in underserved communities like Cameroon.
Instead of focusing on expensive equipment or healthcare infrastructure, their mission focuses on something simpler — training clinicians.
Because better clinicians create better healthcare systems.
Chapters00:00 — Why Credentials Aren’t Expertise
04:30 — Mentorship In Physical Therapy
10:00 — Building Global Physio Training
15:30 — Lessons From Cameroon PTs
21:30 — Interdisciplinary Healthcare Teams
27:00 — Diagnosing Movement Problems
33:30 — Future Of Physical Therapy
In This Episode• The difference between technicians and clinicians in PT
• Why mentorship matters more than credentials
• What American PTs can learn from global clinicians
• How interdisciplinary healthcare teams improve outcomes
• Why PT clinics should collaborate with physicians and other providers
• The vision behind Global Physio Training
Resources MentionedGlobal Physio Training
Most physical therapists feel stuck between productivity expectations, documentation requirements, and changing reimbursement models.
But what if the problem isn’t clinicians — it’s the systems around them?
In this episode, Jimmy talks with Katie Holterman about how healthcare systems, documentation processes, and compliance frameworks can either burn clinicians out or support them.
Katie explains why efficiency and quality are not enemies, why most documentation is unnecessarily complex, and how clinics can design systems that protect clinicians while improving outcomes.
The conversation also dives into the future of value-based care, the role of outcomes in physical therapy reimbursement, and why most continuing education fails to deliver practical clinical value.
If you’re a physical therapist, clinic owner, or healthcare leader, this episode offers practical insight into building systems that actually work for clinicians.
Key TakeawaysPhysical therapy clinics don’t struggle because they lack skill. They struggle because they lack attention.
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy McKay and Tony Maritato explore how PT clinic owners can rethink marketing using lessons from unexpected places — viral videos, restaurant chains, and real-world business strategy.
Instead of chasing trends or expensive advertising, the conversation focuses on creating authentic attention through simple ideas, repeatable content, and engaging storytelling.
They also dig into leadership inside PT clinics — including how to hire the right people, how culture impacts performance, and why insecure leadership can quietly destroy organizations.
The result is a practical conversation about how clinics can grow without complicated marketing systems.
Key Topics DiscussedTony Maritato
YouTube: Total Therapy Solutions
Dave Kittle
Website: ConciergePainRelief.com
YouTube: The Dave Kittle Show
SponsorsSupport for PT Pintcast comes from:
SaRA Health – AI-powered patient engagement for rehab practices
EMPOWER EMR – Built for modern rehab clinics
U.S. Physical Therapy
If you've worked inside a healthcare organization you've probably heard the question:
“What's the EBITDA impact?”
But what happens when a financial reporting metric slowly becomes the mission of the entire organization?
In this conversation, Jimmy McKay and Larry Benz unpack:
• What EBITDA actually measures
• How "Adjusted EBITDA" becomes a fiction contest
• Why chasing the metric can distort clinical care
• The Soviet nail factory problem in healthcare
• What a healthier dashboard for PT organizations should look like
Larry also explains the four pillars every physical therapy organization should measure instead of obsessing over EBITDA.
If you lead a healthcare organization, this conversation will challenge how you think about metrics, culture, and what actually drives sustainable performance.
Chapters00:00 The phrase every healthcare leader hears
00:40 EBITDA explained simply
02:40 When the tool becomes the mission
03:20 The “Adjusted EBITDA fiction contest”
05:40 How metrics change behavior
07:40 Why clinicians are the real business
10:20 The Soviet nail factory story
13:30 What healthcare should measure instead
14:00 Larry’s four pillar dashboard
18:00 Culture is the engine of EBITDA
Private practice physical therapy owners: learn the KPIs that drive clinic growth, PT marketing ROI, and revenue forecasting. This MBA for the DPT lesson shows PT clinic owners how to track leads, visits per case, and key business metrics that predict success.
Most physical therapists open a clinic without ever learning how to read the business numbers behind it.
In this **MBA for the DPT** episode, Jimmy talks with **Sturdy McKee** about the key performance indicators (KPIs) that successful physical therapy clinic owners use to run smarter businesses.
You’ll learn which numbers actually matter, how to build a simple KPI dashboard, and why one overlooked metric — **leads** — can predict your clinic’s revenue 30–60 days ahead.
Sturdy also explains how to translate data into action so your staff understands what drives results, improves patient outcomes, and creates a healthier practice.
If you run a **private practice physical therapy clinic**, this episode will help you stop guessing and start managing with clarity.
00:00 KPI Basics For PT Owners
03:12 Why KPIs Matter In Clinics
09:45 Building A KPI Dashboard
16:30 Personnel Vs Overhead Costs
23:40 Predicting Revenue With Leads
31:10 KPI Mistakes Clinic Owners Make
38:20 Translating Data To Staff
45:10 How Often To Review Metrics
51:00 The KPI That Surprised Me
58:40 Connecting Numbers To Outcomes
Guest: Sturdy McKee
https://sturdycoaching.com
Question for clinic owners:
Which KPI has helped you make the biggest business decision in your practice?
Most physical therapy clinics approach marketing backwards.
Instead of teaching and building trust, they try to promote services — and patients can see through it instantly.
In this episode, Jimmy McKay, Dave Kittle, and Tony Maritato discuss what actually works when it comes to content and clinic growth.
They break down how attention drives patient acquisition, why authenticity beats corporate messaging, and how clinics can build authority by consistently publishing valuable content.
If you're trying to grow your practice without feeling like you're constantly selling, this conversation provides a practical framework.
What You'll Learn• Why educational content builds trust faster than promotional content
• How authenticity helps clinics stand out online
• Why over-filtered marketing fails
• The value of transparency with patient feedback and reviews
• How attention compounds for long-term clinic growth
Guest LinksDave Kittle
https://conciergepainrelief.com
Dave Kittle YouTube
https://youtube.com/@thedavekittleshow
Tony Maritato
https://totaltherapysolutions.com
Tony Maritato YouTube
https://youtube.com/@totaltherapysolutions
SponsorsSaRA Health
EMPOWER EMR
U.S. Physical Therapy
Most physical therapists were taught that clinical excellence leads to career success.
But according to Greg Todd, that model no longer works.
In this episode, Greg explains why many PTs feel stuck despite doing everything “right” — earning a doctorate, taking continuing education courses, and working long clinical hours.
The problem isn’t skill.
It’s leverage.
Greg breaks down how clinicians can start productizing their knowledge, building scalable income streams, and creating content that attracts attention in today’s digital economy.
If you’re a PT, clinic owner, or rehab professional trying to navigate reimbursement pressure, burnout, or limited income growth, this conversation will challenge how you think about your career.
Key Topics• Why Greg Todd says PTs have an “obedience problem”
• The difference between clinical excellence and financial scalability
• How productizing knowledge creates leverage
• Why attention is the most valuable currency today
• The identity shift from clinician to CEO
• Why content creation is becoming a competitive advantage for healthcare professionals
• The simple framework: one person, one problem, one solution
Actionable TakeawayStart small.
Greg recommends beginning with:
One person → One problem → One solution
Then create content explaining how you solve that problem.
That’s the first step toward turning your expertise into a scalable product.
Resources MentionedGreg Todd Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/gregtoddpt/
Most healthcare marketing does not fail because marketing is useless. It fails because clinics make it hard to trust them, hard to book, and hard to talk about them.
In this episode, Jimmy McKay and Andrea Cheney unpack what PT clinic owners and healthcare marketers keep getting wrong. They break down why patients now behave more like consumers, what they actually look at before booking, and why reviews, websites, and front desk processes matter more than another generic ad campaign.
The big takeaway for busy PTs and clinic owners: marketing works better when operations work better. If your clinic creates a five-star experience, makes reviews easy, reduces friction, and shows up online with purpose, your marketing starts pulling its weight.
What You’ll Learn
Key Takeaways for Clinic Owners
Guest
Resources & Tools Mentioned
Sponsors
PT Pintcast’s official 2026 sponsors include SaRA Health, EMPOWER EMR, and U.S.
Most physical therapists assume healthcare policy is decided somewhere far away.
But Utah PTs just proved something different.
In this episode, Howard Quackenbush explains how competing physical therapy clinics united to pass legislation that recognizes PTs as primary care providers for co-pay purposes—reducing financial barriers and improving patient access.
Instead of waiting for national policy changes, this group of clinicians and clinic owners worked state-level relationships, coordinated fundraising, and built grassroots support that ultimately passed the bill.
For private practice owners and PT leaders, the lesson is clear: if you want change in reimbursement, access, or regulation, you may have to organize and lead it.
Topics discussed:
• Why high PT co-pays discourage patients from completing care
• How competing clinics collaborated instead of competing
• The legislative strategy that helped Utah PTs win
• Why grassroots advocacy matters for clinic owners
• The role of relationships in healthcare policy
• A practical blueprint other states can follow
Howard also shares the leadership philosophy that guided the effort—and why relationships ultimately determine whether policy moves forward.
Sponsors
SaRA Health
EMPOWER EMR
U.S. Physical Therapy
Learn more:
PTs are expected to be the movement experts—yet most movement assessment is still subjective: “knee valgus noted,” “pelvic drop,” “looks better.” Dan Seidler (Business Development Lead, DorsaVi USA) and Maka Lange unpack what changes when clinics can quantify biomechanics with video AI and wearable sensors.
They cover how objective data improves patient education and buy-in, strengthens documentation, and makes return-to-play/return-to-work decisions more defensible—especially as AI, wearables, and non-PT competitors raise the bar for “measured” care.
What you’ll learn
Guest + Links
Most physical therapy clinics market the wrong thing.
They promote visits, treatments, and techniques — but patients don’t actually want those things. What they want is the outcome: getting back to running, lifting, sports, or living pain-free.
In this episode, Jimmy McKay and Dave Kittle explore how PT clinic owners can shift from transactional care to transformation-based care.
Drawing insights from thinkers like Seth Godin, Gary Vee, Rory Sutherland, Chris Voss, and Chris Do, they explain how better positioning, marketing, and communication can turn a one-time patient into a long-term relationship.
They also discuss why selling programs beats selling packages, why vanity metrics like social media views don’t build clinics, and how the first phone call with a patient may determine whether they ever become a client.
If you’re a clinic owner trying to grow revenue, improve patient engagement, and create a stronger brand, this episode will change how you think about your business.
What You’ll Learn• Why patients buy outcomes — not treatments
• How to position your clinic as a transformation machine
• Why social media views don’t equal patients
• How to turn a $10K client into a $70K lifetime relationship
• The difference between selling programs vs packages
• Why the first phone call determines patient conversions
• The importance of asking better intake questions
Guests & ResourcesDave Kittle
Website: https://conciergepainrelief.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thedavekittleshow/featured
Tony Maritato
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MedicareBilling
SponsorsSaRA Health — https://sarahealth.com
EMPOWER EMR — https://empoweremr.com
U.S. Physical Therapy — https://usph.com
A comment calling hospital PTs “discharge monkeys” kicks off a real conversation about burnout, autonomy, and what the system incentivizes. Rebekah Griffith and Jimmy McKay unpack why acute care PTs feel boxed into discharge throughput, how that attitude spreads through teams (presenteeism), and what leaders can do to get great clinicians back to practicing with purpose.
What You’ll Learn
A real-world clinic-owner problem: a therapist who wants the upside (patients “dropped in their lap”) but won’t do the minimum (timely notes, accountability). Dave and Jimmy walk through the practical HR/documentation approach, how one low-effort teammate drags culture and outcomes, and the retention strategies that keep high-value patients loyal to the practice even when staff changes.
What you’ll learn
People & brands mentioned
Episode theme: If your marketing “isn’t working,” your real bottleneck is usually operations + friction—and tech/ads will only amplify what’s already broken.
What we covered“Technology doesn’t fix broken processes. It scales them.”
Physical therapy can’t survive on “me, me, me” messaging. Dr. Lisa VanHoose breaks down why rehabilitation deserts are growing, why gatekeeping admissions is fueling the PT workforce shortage, and what it looks like to rebuild the profession around community, access, and relational capacity—not just credentials and productivity.
We talk rural retention, community-based rehab, why “bootstraps” is a myth in healthcare design, and how the Ujima Institute is building real-world mobility support through food access, youth training, health literacy, and neighbor-to-neighbor infrastructure.
Chapters
00:00 Neighbors Shape Health
07:55 Admissions Beyond GPA
13:40 Rehab Desert Reality
22:35 Systems Over Bootstraps
30:20 Keep PTs In Practice
43:20 Ujima In Action
Guest + Resources
Dr. Lisa VanHoose (she/her)
Ujima Institute (community-rooted health + education)
Mentions: Ikigai, Blue Zones research, PCORI (patient-centered research model), community-based rehab, telehealth/remote monitoring, “Nothing About Us Without Us”
Ujima Institute: https://www.ujimainstitute.com/
If your clinic feels busy but profit isn’t increasing, this episode will hit home.
Doug Adams joins Jimmy to break down one of the most uncomfortable truths in private practice physical therapy: growth does not come from treating more people. It comes from treating the right people.
Key Takeaways:
• Why every PT clinic needs a defined sales process
• The difference between commoditized visits and transformational outcomes
• How defining your ideal patient increases revenue per client
• Why word-of-mouth only works when the experience is aligned
• The danger of the “just get more patients” mindset
• How AI and “good enough” rehab advice threaten generic clinics
• The uncomfortable decision clinic owners must make to grow
If you’re a clinic owner chasing volume, this episode challenges you to rethink your model. Revenue per visit, lifetime value, and brand alignment matter more than raw visit counts.
Jeremy VanDevender shares a practical clinic-growth and leadership framework built on a few core ideas: lead with optimism, listen like it’s your job (because it is), and create real pathways for clinicians to grow—clinically or into leadership—without burning out.
In this episode, we cover:
Equus Growth Advisors: https://equusgrowth.com/
AI is no longer theoretical for clinic owners.
A PT in Ohio just received a 12-visit self-pay package from a patient who found her through AI search.
That changes the conversation.
In this episode, we explore:
This episode reinforces a core truth:
Attention → Trust → Action
You can’t shortcut trust.
You can’t buy authority.
You earn it through presence and frequency.
???? Connect with the CrewFollow Tony Maritato on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/c/MedicareBilling
Follow Dave Kittle on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@thedavekittleshow/featured
Follow Jimmy McKay on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@ptpodcasts
Stop Running a 1998 Clinic in 2026
Reimbursement is shrinking. Expenses are rising. And too many PT clinics are still operating like it’s 1998.
Albert Katz, CEO of Flagler Health, joins Jimmy to talk about:
If you care about protecting margin, improving efficiency, and building a clinic that survives the next decade — this episode matters.
GuestAlbert Katz
Heidi Jannenga has been part of this show since the early days — and she returns with data every clinic owner and staff PT needs to see.
The 2025 State of Rehab Therapy Report reveals a widening gap between clinicians and leadership. While leaders assume pay is the biggest issue, clinicians say they’re motivated by purpose, autonomy, and meaningful work.
This episode explores:
If the profession is at an inflection point, this is the conversation shaping what happens next.
Are PTs Leaving Money on the Table?
In this episode, Jimmy, Tony Maritato, and Dave Kittle dig into something most physical therapists aren’t even considering:
Live selling. Affiliate income. Attention as the business model.
It starts with Jimmy testing live selling premium recovery devices through Amazon Live.
But it quickly turns into a bigger conversation:
This isn’t about selling out.
It’s about understanding the shift happening in business:
Attention → Trust → RevenueIf you don’t build attention, someone else will.
What We Covered???? Live Selling & Amazon LiveYou don’t need to reinvent the wheel.
You need to build your version of it.
Tony breaks down:
Spending six figures at conferences…
For 48 hours of exposure.
Meanwhile:
What if the future of PT looks more like:
Instead of:
Physical therapy doesn’t have a value problem.
It has a positioning problem.
In this episode, Jimmy talks with Matthew Pratte about why private outpatient practices are getting squeezed — and what to do about it.
Key Topics Covered:Waiting for reimbursement to improve isn’t a strategy.
Independent clinics must rethink who they sell to — and how they position PT as first-line musculoskeletal care.
In this episode, Jimmy sits down with Chanha Hwang, PT, founder of Moviq Health, a clinical biomechanics lab in Las Vegas designed to function like “Quest Diagnostics for human movement.”
The discussion focuses on one core idea:
Physical therapy cannot claim authority in movement without standardized diagnostic infrastructure.
Inside This Episode:Most PTs Think There’s Only One Career Path. They’re Wrong.
Live from APTA CSM in Anaheim, Jimmy sits down with Tim Reynolds — professor, clinician, author, and anatomy educator with over one million followers online.
This episode dives into:
Tim shares how teaching one night lab turned into a full-time academic role — and how sharing educational content online expanded his reach beyond the classroom.
If you’re feeling boxed in, burned out, or unsure what’s next — this conversation will challenge how you think about your degree.
Physical therapy reimbursement has declined for years — while tuition, expectations, and scope continue to expand.
Steve Smith joins PT Pintcast live from CSM to discuss:
The message is simple:
If you don’t engage before decisions are made, you’ll be reacting after something is lost.
His parting advice:
Never assume. Always ask.
Topics CoveredWhat does physical therapy look like beyond the U.S. healthcare system?
In this episode, Jimmy talks with Sidy Dieye, CEO of World Physiotherapy, about how the global PT profession is evolving — and why U.S. clinicians should care.
World Physiotherapy represents 129 member organizations and over 600,000 physiotherapists worldwide.
Sidy shares:
This episode reinforces a powerful idea:
World Physiotherapy doesn’t belong to leadership — it belongs to the profession.
Physical Therapy Is at a Turning Point
Rupal Patel joins PT Pintcast live from CSM to discuss why physical therapy is entering its second century — and why that means expanding our role beyond musculoskeletal care.
Key Themes:Rupal makes a compelling case: If PTs want better reimbursement, better access, and a sustainable future — we must advocate before frustration turns into apathy.
Her parting message draws from Mahatma Gandhi: Be the change you want to see in the world.
Sponsors MentionedSaRA Health – https://sarahealth.com
U.S. Physical Therapy – https://usph.com
Insurance runs out. Patients still need care. Now what?
Melanie Brennan built a nonprofit neuro recovery gym to solve exactly that problem.
After seeing patients decline post-discharge from traditional rehab settings, Melanie launched EA Therapeutic Health — a hybrid model blending:
Now with 24 employees and a 10,000-square-foot facility, she’s proving private practice isn’t just for orthopedics.
Key TopicsEA Therapeutic Health
PTs Belong in Disaster Response — Here’s How to Step In
Disasters don’t discriminate. They impact hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, schools, and communities.
Yet physical therapists are rarely included in disaster planning or emergency response operations.
In this episode, Megan Mitchell breaks down:
• Why disasters are increasing in frequency
• Where PTs are currently underutilized
• The musculoskeletal reality of disaster injuries
• Why you can’t “just show up” during an emergency
• How to engage your hospital or clinic’s emergency manager
• The difference between “lessons learned” and “lessons applied”
• One immediate action step every PT should take
Key Takeaway:Preparedness is part of professional responsibility. If you’re licensed and trained, you already have relevant skills. The profession must proactively claim its seat at the table.
Resources Mentioned• PT & PTA Emergency and Disaster Response Action Plan (APTA)
• University of Colorado Anschutz
Sponsors• EMPOWER EMR
• SaRA Health
• U.S. Physical Therapy (USPH)
Most physical therapy clinic owners have been told the same story:
Spend 5–10% of revenue on marketing.
Run Facebook ads.
Buy Google traffic.
Outspend competitors.
But what if that advice is wrong?
Live from CSM, Jimmy and Sturdy McKee break down a back-to-basics approach to clinic growth that doesn’t rely on ad spend — it relies on relationships.
What You’ll Learn:This episode is for PTs and clinic owners who want sustainable growth without sacrificing margin or humanity.
Emergency Department PT, Top-of-Scope Mindset & Reigniting Your Career
Recorded live at CSM, Jimmy sits down with Rebekah Griffith, PT, DPT, to talk about the growth of physical therapy in the emergency department — and what it takes to bring it into your hospital.
In This Episode:Rebecca shares a practical framework for introducing ED PT services:
This episode is about expanding what’s possible in your career — and protecting the future of the profession.
SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by:
PT Is Political — And That’s Not Optional
Recorded live at APTA CSM, this conversation tackles one uncomfortable truth: physical therapy operates inside a political healthcare system.
If you ignore policy, reimbursement, or structural access issues, you're still affected by them.
In This Episode:Episode Overview
Live from APTA CSM in Anaheim, Jimmy talks with Nicole O’Neill from U.S. Physical Therapy about what USPH actually is—and why most PTs don’t realize they’ve probably seen one of their clinics.
USPH partners with 135+ locally branded physical therapy practices across 44 states, providing national operational support while allowing clinics to maintain their identity.
This episode breaks down what that model looks like for:
U.S. Physical Therapy is a national network supporting local PT clinics with financial, administrative, and operational infrastructure—so clinicians can focus on patient care and leadership development.
Learn more:
???? https://usph.com
Visibility Is Not Optional Anymore
If you’re a physical therapist or clinic owner relying on reputation alone, you’re already behind.
This episode covers:
Trust is built downstream of earned attention. If people don’t see you, they don’t trust you.
Guest LinksDave Kittle
YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@thedavekittleshow/featured
Website → https://conciergepainrelief.com
Tony Maritato
Can social media realistically generate revenue for physical therapists?
In this episode, Jimmy talks with Tony Maritato about:
Tony explains how he captures patient interactions during treatment (with consent), posts directly from his phone, and uses AI tools to analyze performance — without hiring staff or building a production studio.
If you’re a clinic owner, this matters because:
AI Is Not a Silver Bullet
Recorded live at APTA CSM, Todd Norwood joins the show to talk about AI, digital health, and why physical therapy clinics need to fix their data before chasing the next shiny tech solution.
What We Cover:Good data is foundational to making the most of AI and digital innovation in physical therapy.
GuestTodd Norwood
PT in Digital Health
Live from CSM Anaheim, Jimmy sits down with Matt Huey, PT, to talk about what really moves the physical therapy profession forward.
The conversation centers on engagement.
Not national outrage.
Not social media complaints.
Real, local involvement.
Key themes:
The takeaway:
If you want the profession to improve, you have to show up.
Proactive Care Is a Pathway — Not a Slogan
PT is built for prevention.
But most of healthcare still waits until pain shows up.
In this episode recorded live at CSM in Anaheim, Dr. Tatiana Olevsky discusses:
Dr. Tatiana Olevsky
Spine PT Fellow | Private Practice Owner | Educator
Better Systems, Not Tougher People
Burnout in healthcare isn’t a motivation problem. It’s a design problem.
Dr. Lisa Flexner joins PT Pintcast live from APTA CSM to break down why:
If you're leading a clinic and wondering why retention is harder, morale feels fragile, or productivity pressure keeps increasing — this episode reframes the issue from something personal to something structural.
Key TakeawaysLive from APTA CSM in Anaheim, Jimmy talks with Dr. Jenn Bell about redefining professionalism in physical therapy.
They discuss:
If your clinic wants to recruit and retain strong clinicians, this conversation matters.
Key TakeawaysAdvocacy Isn’t Optional—It’s Your Responsibility
In this episode, Jimmy talks with Jim Leahy, longtime lobbyist and association executive serving nine APTA chapters across the country.
Jim has spent over 30 years inside the machinery of healthcare policy. His message is clear:
If you’re not involved in advocacy, you’re gambling with your profession—and your patients.
What You’ll Learn:Recorded live from CSM, this episode features Jake Irwin, PT, DPT — professor, athletics PT, private practice owner, and APTA delegate.
The conversation covers:
Jake delivers a strong parting shot:
When patients don’t get better because they didn’t follow their home program — that’s not their fault. That’s yours.This episode challenges clinicians to choose growth over blame.
Mastery Before Marketing
In this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy talks with Lewis Lupowitz, sports physical therapist and founder of Longevity Physical Therapy & Performance.
Lewis brings a strong perspective:
There’s a mentorship problem in physical therapy — and it’s being disguised as an entrepreneurship movement.
Key Topics Covered:Lewis Lupowitz
Milica McDowell, DPT — clinic owner, professor, and now AVP of Education at USPH — joins Jimmy live from APTA CSM to make a bold claim:
Most PTs are recommending the wrong shoes.
In this episode:
If you're a PT who cares about mobility, longevity, and biomechanics, this conversation matters.
Milica’s Core MessageFunctional footwear is not a fashion preference.
It’s a biomechanical responsibility.
Resources???? Walk (Releases May 5, 2026)
???? milicamcdowell.com
Follow: @gaithappens | @altrarunning | @vivobarefoot
Physical therapy research may feel invisible — but it protects reimbursement, strengthens professional credibility, and ensures long-term growth.
In this episode, Jimmy talks with Becky Craik about:
If you believe in evidence-based practice, this episode explains why ongoing research funding matters to every PT — whether you work in a clinic or academia.
Do It Differently or Die: A Wake-Up Call for PT Owners
Live from CSM, Jimmy talks with Eric Fernandez from Hyperice about the uncomfortable realities facing outpatient physical therapy.
What We Cover:The system is perfectly designed to produce the results you’re currently getting.
If you don’t like the results, rebuild the system.
GuestEric Fernandez – Hyperice
A Decade Under the Influence
Faith Stokes takes over the mic at CSM and interviews Jimmy McKay about 10 years of PT Pintcast.
This episode covers:
If you’re a PT, clinic owner, or healthcare leader trying to protect trust and earn attention in your market — this episode matters.
Sponsors MentionedStop Being the “Nice PT”
Live from CSM in Anaheim, Eric Bellm joins PT Pintcast to challenge one of the most uncomfortable truths in physical therapy:
Are we too focused on being liked?
This episode tackles:
Eric Bellm, PT, DPT, OCS
Assistant Professor – Saint Louis University
Circus Is Sport — So Why Aren’t We Treating It That Way?
Performing artists train like elite athletes — but they’re rarely treated like them in healthcare.
In this episode, Emily Scherb (The Circus Doc) shares:
Website: https://www.thecircusdoc.com
Instagram: @thecircusdoc
LinkedIn: Emily Scherb
At CSM 2026, Jimmy sits down with Devon Morris to discuss generational differences in physical therapy — and why clinic culture may matter more than compensation for retaining Gen Z clinicians.
Key themes include:
If you're a clinic owner struggling with retention — or a PT navigating your early career — this episode delivers practical insight.
00:00 – CSM 2026 Live
02:15 – Gen Z Explained
04:20 – The Zoom Effect
06:05 – Culture Over Salary
07:30 – Retention Crisis
08:40 – Parting Shot
From CSM 2026 in Anaheim, Jimmy sits down with Ben Lindaman to discuss one of the biggest identity tensions in physical therapy:
Generalist vs. Specialist.
Healthcare rewards depth.
Marketing rewards niche positioning.
But patient care often demands integration.
Ben argues that:
If you’ve ever felt pressure to define your niche immediately — this episode is for you.
???? Key TakeawaysBen Lindaman, PT, DPT
Assistant Professor, Tufts University
PRN Clinician, Philadelphia
???? Benton.Lindaman@tufts.edu
Social: @ben10dpt
Recommended Book: Range by David Epstein
???? SponsorsSupported by:
SaRA Health
EMPOWER EMR
U.S. Physical Therapy
Recorded LIVE from CSM 2026 in Anaheim, Jimmy sits down with Ami Faria from the APTA Board of Directors to discuss:
This episode highlights the Earned Attention principle in action:
Attention → Trust → Action.
The profession cannot outsource its future. Collaboration is the strategy.
Guest: Dr. Rachel Zoffness – Pain Psychologist | UCSF + Stanford Faculty | Author of Tell Me Where It Hurts
Topic: Revolutionizing Pain Education and Treatment
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Links + Resources
???? Website: zoffness.com
???? Book: Tell Me Where It Hurts — Order Now
???? Follow: @TheRealDocZoff, @drzoffness
???? Want Rachel to record your voicemail? Preorder and submit at zoffness.com
Physical therapy isn’t just about movement anymore — it’s about models, messaging, and mindset. In this episode, Jimmy interviews Ryan Sharkey and Jonathan Ide-Don, co-founders of Full Stack Healthcare, a platform and newsletter helping clinicians think beyond fee-for-service.
They break down the differences between RTM and telehealth, how asynchronous care changes outcomes, and why communication — not Theraband color — is your next clinical edge.
???? Who this is for: Clinic owners, ambitious PTs, policy-curious rehab pros, and anyone who feels like the system is broken but isn’t sure how to fix it.
???? Topics covered:
???? Game Segment: Full Stack Fire Round
Many PTs expect APTA membership to deliver immediate, visible ROI — discounts, perks, and fast results. In this conversation, Rebekah Griffith explains why that mindset misses the real value of professional advocacy.
This episode covers:
Key takeaway:
You don’t get value from APTA or CSM by watching. You get it by participating.
How do you build confident pediatric PTs and decode complex diagnoses like dyspraxia or EDS?
Cheri Woodson has spent 45+ years treating children, educating families, and mentoring therapists. In this episode, she shares how physical therapists can better support kids with executive function and motor planning challenges — even without a formal diagnosis.
✅ Why motor delays often go undiagnosed ✅ The biggest myth in pediatric PT ✅ What PT schools miss (and how to fix it) ✅ Strategies to accelerate clinical reasoning
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
02:15 - Cheri’s 45-year journey in pediatric PT
05:44 - Mentoring the next generation of PTs
09:30 - Treating without a formal diagnosis
13:20 - What PT schools still miss about peds
16:47 - Strategies for dyspraxia + motor planning
19:40 - The myth that still hurts pediatric care
22:00 - Cheri’s parting shot
Sponsored By:
Most PT marketing fails because it chases moments instead of relationships.
In this episode, Jimmy McKay breaks down:
If you’re a clinic owner, healthcare exec, or PT leader trying to grow without burning cash — this episode reframes everything.
SponsorsCOVID changed everything — and for many PTs, it left emotional wounds that haven't healed. Kristin Walls and Lisa Kohler join us to unpack “moral injury” — how it’s different from burnout, how it showed up in outpatient and acute care settings, and why it matters for the future of physical therapy.
They preview their CSM talk, highlight new research on provider wellness, and share initiatives like the Wellness Committee and a national survey on professional sustainability.
In this episode:
Links:
What if leadership in physical therapy wasn’t about titles — but about how you show up? In this episode, three powerhouse PTs share how they stepped up in their careers — not by chasing roles, but by owning their value, raising their hand, and realizing that leadership is a behavior, not a job description. Whether you’re a new grad, a PTA, or a 10-year vet, this one hits home.
Featuring: Todd Norwood, PT, DPT, Lindsey Umlauf, PT, DPT and Kelly Louise Wooldridge, PT, MPT
Hosted by Jimmy McKay
⏱️ CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
02:15 - Why PTs struggle to see themselves as leaders
08:42 - The dangers of saying “I’m just a…”
14:05 - How leadership shows up in patient care
19:45 - Clinic roles vs leadership behaviors
26:02 - Raising your hand before you're "ready"
32:30 - Parting Shots: You belong at the table
36:00 - CSM Session Info + Valentine’s Day PSA
36:55 - Outro + Where to go next
???? GUEST + RESOURCE LINKS:
???? CSM Session: “Leading with Care: Developing PTs in Healthcare Leadership”
???? Sat, Feb 14th, 8:00 AM
???? Anaheim, CA
Dawn Magnusson & Rachel Prusynski – PTJ Editorial Team
EPISODE SUMMARY:
Is peer review really that scary? This special CSM 2026 preview pulls back the curtain on academic publishing with two editors from PTJ. Whether you're a clinician, student, or early-career researcher, you'll learn how to start writing, reviewing, and contributing to the scholarly conversation in physical therapy.
Topics covered:
CSM Session Info:
Behind the Red Ink: Demystifying Peer Review and Empowering Emerging Scholars
Friday, February 13, 2026 | ???? 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Room 163, ACC North – Anaheim Convention Center
Sponsored by:
What happens when the immune system turns into a weapon against cancer — and PTs aren’t sure what to expect?
Join Jimmy McKay as he interviews three leaders in oncology rehab at CSM 2026. Scott Capozza, Amanda Giarratano, and Stephen Wechsler break down what immunotherapy means for PTs — and how to prepare for the tidal wave of patients already coming.
You’ll learn:
This is essential listening for any physical therapist working in oncology or interested in the future of personalized cancer care.
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America — especially with older adults. But with its explosive popularity comes a wave of injuries. PTs Diane Fleming and Kristin Walls join the show to share insights from their CSM 2026 session, covering:
???? Includes a rapid-fire game: “Pickle or Pass”
???? Sponsors MentionedRob Panariello has done it all — from strength coach at St. John's to Director of Health & Performance for the Carolina Panthers, to co-founding one of the largest PT practices in the country. In this episode, he shares:
???? HERO CLIP MOMENT: "There’s a big difference between routine... and commitment."
???? LIGHTNING ROUND GAME: Name That Coach! Rapid-fire quote game: Did this come from Parcells, Vermeil, or Lou C?
???? SPONSOR PLACEMENT:
Healthcare has this adorable belief…
“If we just explain our value clearly enough, people will understand.”
No.
The internet doesn’t reward explanations.
It rewards proof.
In this episode, we break down the legendary Will It Blend? strategy and why a blender destroying iPhones generated hundreds of millions of views — and what that teaches healthcare, PT clinics, associations, and tech companies about earning attention.
Because here’s the uncomfortable truth:
Most organizations don’t have a marketing problem.
They have a demonstration problem.
If your AI reduces denials… show me.
If your clinic transforms lives… show me.
If your association builds better clinicians… show me.
This episode unpacks:
If you’re tired of shouting into the void… this might be your pivot.
Hear from the storytellers behind LAMP’s TED-style leadership session at CSM 2026. These PTs aren’t just talking about leadership—they’re living it through deeply personal stories of rediscovery, burnout recovery, and professional pivots.
????️ Hear from:
???? TED-Style Session Info: Thursday, Feb 12 · 2:00–3:30 PM at APTA CSM 2026
???? Why Listen: Whether you’re a new grad, student, or seasoned PT, these stories will remind you why you started and help you lead from within.
In this PT Breakfast Club livestream, Jimmy McKay sits down with Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato to unpack what’s actually working for clinic owners and PT creators right now: why posting volume wins, how to build repeatable content formats, a DM strategy that leads to real-world referral relationships, and how to stop letting the fear of “PT internet criticism” keep you quiet.
Key TakeawaysWhat happens when physical therapists decide the clinic isn’t the finish line — it’s the starting point? In this roundtable discussion, Lindsay, Kelly, and Todd dive into how PTs can lead from any position — whether you’re a student, a staff clinician, or in the C-suite.
They get real about imposter syndrome, leadership guilt, CSM session picks, and why bringing your own chair to the table might be the most powerful move of your career.
In This Episode:
Sponsors:
Larry Benz, John Childs, and Tim Flynn join Jimmy to tackle some of the most urgent—and uncomfortable—questions in physical therapy. Are we educating students into a broken system?
Why do most PTs say they wouldn't want their kids to become PTs?
And what would it take to fix this before the next generation gives up?
From the burden of tuition to the unintended consequences of accreditation rigidity, this episode pulls no punches. It's a high-stakes conversation with voices that have shaped PT education, and who believe it's time to reshape it again.
Topics Discussed:
Featured Guests:
Physical therapists are short on time, long on complaints, and totally missing the point: we're in an attention economy. In this episode, Jimmy and the crew dive into:
This isn't about hype. It's about attention, strategy, and clinical creativity. Want to build the PT profession's Savannah Bananas? This episode's your blueprint.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Intro: The Attention Economy in PT
04:22 RTM Is Free Money (But No One Uses It)
09:45 What We Can Steal From ESPN 8: The Ocho
14:36 Clinic Games & CrossFit Leaderboards
19:52 The Real ROI of CSM Booths
26:11 Medicare Edition: The Floor is Lava
31:22 Alternative Halftime Shows & Fake Game Testing
36:44 Clinic vs Clinic: Building a PT Leaderboard
43:00 Final Thoughts: Outrun the Bear, Not the Pack
LINKS & RESOURCES:
This episode will challenge how you think about rehab, performance, and your role as a PT.
Vikash Sharma — founder of Perfect Stride Physical Therapy and Running for Life — lays out a powerful argument: PTs are perfectly positioned to lead the health ecosystem, but most are playing way too small. He explains why strength training is non-negotiable for runners (and humans), how to treat beyond the injury, and the mindset shift new grads need.
???? Hot topics:
???? Mentioned:
???? SPONSORS
???? PRE-ROLL: Brooks IHL – world-class residencies & fellowships → https://brooksihl.org
????️ MID-ROLL: EMPOWER EMR – fast, flexible, PT-designed software → https://empoweremr.com
????️ END-ROLL: U.S. Physical Therapy – build your PT career → https://usph.com
Most clinics say they need "more marketing."
But what they actually need is a plan that works.
Andrea Cheney is a healthcare strategist who’s spent 20 years leading in-house teams and advising growth-stage companies. In this episode, she teams up with Jimmy to break down what doesn’t work in healthcare marketing—and what actually moves the needle.
???? Key Moments:
Andrea also shares:
???? Mic Drop Moment: "Don’t send an email just to send an email."
Dr. Lisa Flexner — educator, leader, and founder of Flex Health Consulting. Catch her at CSM 2026 delivering three sessions on workplace culture, substance use in patients, and weight bias in PT.
This episode covers:
Guest Info:
CSM 2026 Sessions:
Sponsor Shoutouts:
Scott Chesney’s life changed forever at 15 when a spinal stroke left him paralyzed. But that was only the beginning of his journey. In this inspiring episode, Scott joins Jimmy to share:
Scott’s story isn’t just about disability—it’s about rediscovering your purpose, trusting your heart, and refusing to be defined by limits.
???? Listen now and be prepared to rethink resilience.
Connect with Scott Here: https://scottchesney.com/
Former Top 10 Pro Athlete → Neuroscientist → Startup Founder
Dr. Jo Shattuck’s journey is wild: from cleaning carpets while living in a camper… to becoming a world-ranked athlete, then a neuroscience PhD, and now the founder of PantherTec. In this episode, Jo breaks down how we’ve been teaching movement wrong — and what proprioception, kinesthetic dissonance, and wearable tech have to do with fixing it.
???? Learn how PantherTec’s CAT device is helping athletes, patients, and clinicians unlock real body awareness — not just motion but meaning.
???? Topics Covered:
???? Clinicians, athletes, coaches — if you've ever said "they just don’t get it" during a session, this episode is your wake-up call.
Episode Title: Ryan Eder: Virtual PT With Real Outcomes
Guest: Ryan Eder, Founder – Laina Health
What You’ll Learn:
???? Metrics That Matter:
???? Parting Shot:
“Let’s stop protecting the past and start preparing for the future.”This episode of PT Pintcast brings together the crew behind the PT Breakfast Club — Tony Maritato, Dave Kittle, and Jimmy McKay — for an unfiltered roundtable on the state of the profession.
What starts as a conversation about PT burnout quickly unpacks into the deeper issues fueling the fire: unrealistic expectations, outdated business models, weak Medicare reimbursement, and a profession still stuck in legacy mindsets.
Expect sarcasm, solutions, and some hard truths — plus some good-natured ribbing and a few rants on clipboards, compliance, and the alphabet soup of regulations.
In this episode:
???? Links & Resources:
In this episode, Jimmy sits down with CJ Morrow—licensed PT and health tech leader—to explore the evolving role of AI in rehab. From demystifying compliance to explaining how AI can become your new thought partner, this conversation is loaded with insights for any PT navigating the future of care.
Topics Covered:
– The 6 Types of Working Genius and team synergy
– Why tech resistance is really about billing & complexity
– Compliance isn’t a roadblock—it’s a swim lane
– How PTs are training the future of AI
– First step to using AI in your clinic this week
– What the rise of automation really means for PTs
This episode dives into healthcare leadership, clinician burnout, and what actually creates thriving clinical cultures. Jimmy sits down with Hollie Cunningham — a PT who now splits her time between treating patients and reshaping how clinics support their teams. From early warning signs of burnout to practical ways to engage PT students and new grads, this is your playbook for building a culture that lasts.
In This Episode:
Game Segment: "Culture Check: Red Flag or Green Flag?"
Parting Shot: “Everyone wants to be seen, heard, and understood.”
Clinics are growing — but staff are leaving. Burnout is peaking. And your cash flow might be bleeding out.
In this episode, Jimmy breaks down the brand new 2026 Rehab Therapy Industry Report — based on data from 550+ outpatient practices — to answer the big questions:
???? This is the State of the Union for rehab therapy — packed with insights clinic owners, directors, and providers can’t afford to ignore.
Why are some physical therapy clinics thriving while others struggle to stay full? Dr. Jared Cooper doesn’t just run a successful private-pay clinic — he teaches PTs how to break free from insurance dependency, master pricing psychology, and use content to drive patient commitment before they ever walk through the door.
We cover:
This one is brutally honest, practical, and made to help clinic owners stop winging it and start scaling with intention.
Owen Campbell left the corporate world to build his PT practice from the trunk of his car. Now he’s helping other clinicians turn business dreams into real growth.
In this episode, we unpack:
Guest: Owen Campbell
Co-founder of Physio Growth
@thephysiogrowthguys | https://www.physio-growth.com
Resources Mentioned:
Sponsored By:
Jimmy & Tony go off-script on this special snow day edition of the PT Breakfast Club. From Graham Sessions insights to content strategy and the realities of PT business in 2026, this one's a must-listen.
Topics Covered:
In this powerful Graham Sessions sit-down, first-time attendee Alex Bendersky, PT, MBA, gets real about risk, readiness, and the trillion-dollar opportunity in MSK care. From surviving the Medicare cap crash of 2002 to forecasting the next existential threats to PT, Alex challenges the profession to evolve beyond survival.
We dig into:
????Live from APTA Private Practice Graham Sessions
Eric Robertson is back, live from Graham Sessions, and he’s not pulling punches. In this bold and brutally honest conversation, Eric challenges the PT residency model, calls out systemic disconnects in education, and shares a roadmap for fixing it all — with brains, leverage, and a little bit of woo.
???? Want to build better clinicians after graduation?
???? Ready to leverage collective power like dentists and IPAs?
???? Wondering why education and business still operate in silos?
This episode is loaded with smart ideas and spicy solutions for the future of the profession.
???? TIMESTAMPS & CHAPTERS
00:00 – Intro: Jimmy + Eric back on the mic
01:00 – What Graham Sessions gets right about idea sharing
02:30 – Collective bargaining, leverage & mega-groups in PT
04:40 – Lessons from dentistry and managed care
06:10 – Why autonomy isn’t the same as isolation
08:00 – Education & business are not separate universes
09:30 – The big disconnect between DPT programs and real-world readiness
12:00 – Can PT education learn from art school?
13:30 – Redesigning residencies with clinic-defined values
15:00 – Reimagining post-grad training at scale (not just residencies)
17:00 – The pending Grad PLUS loan crisis
18:20 – Why separating education from business is a mistake
20:00 – StrengthsFinder, spreadsheets, and leaning into your superpowers
22:00 – PARTING SHOT: “I want to wreck the accreditation model for residency.”
Lisa VanHoose & Rebekah Griffith on Why PTs Must Lead, Not Wait
Live from Graham Sessions, Jimmy sits down with two of the boldest voices in PT:
Topics covered:
Live from APTA HQ at Graham Sessions, Jimmy sits down with David Harris, CEO of PRO~PT Physical Therapy. With over two decades in the profession and leadership roles at Ivy, Spear, and now PRO~PT, David brings deep insight into how physical therapy needs to evolve.
They cover:
In this live episode from APTA’s Graham Sessions, Jimmy sits down with Steven Coen — CEO of SaRA Health — to talk about the untapped power of Remote Therapeutic Monitoring (RTM). Steven explains how most clinics are already doing 90% of the work — but not getting paid for it. Learn why naming your RTM program matters, how text messages can save lives, and what the new CMS Access program means for the future of value-based rehab.
What You’ll Learn:
Guest:
???? Steven Coen, CEO of SaRA Health
???? www.sarahealth.com
???? steven@sarahealth.com
Josh Funk, PT from Rehab 2 Perform, joins Jimmy live from Graham Sessions to talk about:
You’ll learn what Rehab 2 Perform did at 4 clinics that set them up to scale — and what most practices overlook when it comes to marketing.
GUEST LINKS
Website: https://rehab2perform.com
Two clinicians from different worlds, one vision for the future of rehab. At Graham Sessions, Jimmy sits down with Ali Hartman, DPT and CrossFit enthusiast, and Bethany Ayer, OT and AI strategist, for a wide-ranging conversation about burnout, purpose, and rebuilding the systems we work in.
TAKEAWAYS INCLUDE:
???? Featured Guests:
???? Ali Hartman, DPT
???? Bethany Ayer, OTR/L, MBA
Philip Goldsmith, PT, MSPT, EMT, DScPT, is the President of APTA Home Health and a clinical expert in home health care. He joins Jimmy LIVE from APTA Private Practice’s Graham Sessions for a candid conversation on:
???? Learn more about “ACHH at Sea” → https://aptahomehealth.org
Jimmy chats with Patrick Graham — one of the three co-founders and namesake of the Graham Sessions — about the evolution of the event, the ideas that have shaped physical therapy, and what the future holds as the 20th anniversary approaches.
From confidentiality to boldness, Patrick unpacks what makes the Graham Sessions unlike any other gathering in healthcare.
KEY DISCUSSIONS INCLUDE:
QUOTABLE:
“Ask the question. That's where every big idea starts.”
In this special episode recorded live at Graham Sessions, Jimmy talks with clinic owner Mike Reing and Marymount University DPT Dean Skye Donovan about what’s broken in the profession — and what it’ll take to fix it.
You’ll hear:
Whether you’re a student, academic, or clinic owner, this conversation hits on the real tension — and the real possibilities — in PT today.
???? Resources & Links
????️ Sponsors:
Jason takes us hole-by-hole through life as a PT on the PGA Tour. From Augusta’s Amen Corner to the Olympic Games, he shares the day-to-day demands, the team behind the players, and how data, recovery, and PT have fused into elite golf performance.
Topics Covered:???? Topic: The Real Reason Recovery Matters More Than Ever on Tour
???? Ideal Soundbite Setup:
“So we started looking at things like HRV… and we realized, maybe it’s not how they train, but how they recover that explains their Sunday score.”???? Host Prompt:
“Jason, you mentioned you’re tracking HRV and linking that to scoring — can you break down what you’re seeing there and how recovery plays into performance now more than ever?”Clip this around 23–27 min mark — it's visual, quantifiable, and deeply relevant to both PTs and athletes.
???? Thumbnail Concept (Visual Hook for YouTube)Text on Screen:
“Inside Pro Golf PT” (top)
“100,000 Swings. 1 PT Team.” (bottom, bold)
Visuals:
Make sure Jason’s face is visible and smiling — credibility + trust.
???? Subscriber Promo Text (Add to Descriptions / Posts)???? Love this episode? Don’t miss what’s next!
???? Follow PT Pintcast for stories from the frontlines of physical therapy — clinic, field, and tour life.
▶️ YouTube: @PTPintcast
???? Apple: PT Pintcast on Apple Podcasts
???? Spotify: PT Pintcast on Spotify
???? IG: @ptpintcast
???? Website: www.ptpintcast.com
Let me know if you'd like me to mock up the thumbnail design or help clip out that HERO moment next — ready when you are! ????????
Clinical skills can take years to sharpen. But without trust, connection, and communication, you might never get the chance to use them.
In this episode, Matt Glassoff throws a curveball at traditional PT training with a powerful take: if you can’t connect with people, your skills don’t matter. He breaks down what real patient rapport looks like, how to lead with empathy, and why this message is more important now than ever.
???? Topics Covered:
Lauren Young has a message for every PT who feels stuck in a broken model: stop asking permission and start building your exit.
In this episode, Jimmy talks with neuro powerhouse Lauren Young about the real reasons PTs are burned out, how to take your first steps toward business ownership, and why it’s time to stop being a “bleeding heart” and start building margin so you can stay in the game.
✅ We talk:
Links:
Parting Shot:
“Be the PT you’d want treating your parents — clinically and financially.”
Dr. Marla Ranieri, PT, DPT — healthcare innovator, tech leader, and physical therapist reimagining the profession
Some PT advice has expired — and Marla Ranieri is here to delete it.
In this rapid-fire, forward-looking finale to PT Pintcast LIVE @ APTA NJ, Marla lays out how AI and tech are transforming physical therapy, what students must stop believing, and the exact question they should ask before joining any clinic. She also shares a personal story about her family\'s 20+ surgeries — and how it shaped her mission.
???? Topics Covered:
???? Sponsored by:
“If you’re not making decisions about tech in your clinic… someone else is.”
Sharif Zeid returns to the Pintcast to talk about the AI wave, automation, and why PT clinics need more leadership — not more software. This episode peels back the hype and hits the reality: you either adapt, or you get buried in admin, inefficiency, and turnover.
Topics include:
???? Guest & Tools:
????️ Sponsor Mentions:
Neuro PT still intimidates too many students — and Brooke Pantano is done with that. She’s on a mission to demystify neuro, advocate for better education, and lift the standards (literally and figuratively) for what PTs can do.
In this live episode from APTA NJ’s Student Conclave, she shares how residency challenged everything she learned in school, what neuro really looks like in the clinic, and how strength training has made her a better clinician.
Topics Covered:
Sponsored by:
Sharif Zeid joins Jimmy to unpack the true root causes of clinic burnout, wasted revenue, and team frustration. Spoiler: it’s not your EMR, and it’s not “kids these days.” It’s the manual, outdated, or bloated processes you're too busy to see.
Learn:
???? Resources:
????️ Sponsor Mentions:
MID-ROLL: Empower EMR
Big thanks to Empower EMR. If your clinic is stuck in an EMR that slows you down, Empower gives you speed, clean workflows, and features PTs actually asked for. Better notes, faster documentation, smoother operations — all wrapped in customer support that doesn’t ghost you. → empoweremr.comWhat do HVAC techs, dentists, and high-performing PTs have in common? Turns out, they’re all using AI tools to level up how they communicate, evaluate, and deliver results.In this raw, honest conversation, Jimmy, Dave, and Tony break down how PTs can reframe “sales” as clinical confidence, why recording evaluations might be the best training tool we’re ignoring, and how this tech is already reshaping onboarding, CPGs, and practice growth.???? Topics Covered:
???? Subscribe & Follow:
Mercedes didn’t wait a decade to “earn” the right to start her business — she built it early, with clarity and confidence.
In this episode recorded live at APTA NJ’s Student Conclave, she shares her journey from Argentina to building a mobile pediatric PT practice in the U.S. We dive into why mobile care works, what it takes to build trust, and how to overcome the imposter syndrome that holds so many new grads back.
???? Topics Covered:
???? Sponsored by:
Students are taught to treat injury — but Melanie Llanes built her business on preventing it. From her start as a PTA to becoming a pelvic health powerhouse, Melanie shares how she shaped her career, faced burnout, and built a business that prioritizes people before they break.
Topics Covered:
Sponsored by:
This episode features one of the most raw, real, and insightful convos we’ve had on the future of physical therapy.
Jimmy sits down with Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato to cover everything clinic owners need to hear right now:
If you’ve ever yelled at your EMR, questioned your payer mix, or thought about quitting insurance cold turkey — this one’s for you.
Why PTs Burn Out: A Raw Look at Rewards, Pressure & the Profession
Episode Summary:
What’s really burning out today’s physical therapists? In this episode, Jimmy chats with Dr. Rebekah Griffith — aka the EDDPT — about why PTs are questioning the reward system, the cost of conferences that don’t deliver, and why "no one wants to work anymore" might not be the real issue. From Graham Sessions to predatory conferences, manual therapy in acute care, and redefining value in the profession — this one hits hard and goes deep.
???? Whether you’re a student, new grad, clinic owner, or educator, this conversation challenges the status quo and leaves you asking: Is the juice worth the squeeze?
00:00 - Cold Open & Welcome
03:12 - The “Elite Secret Job” Recruitment Rant
06:20 - Predatory Journals & Conferences Explained
11:40 - The Hustle Game in Academic Publishing
15:55 - Conference Time Limits vs. Content Quality
22:10 - What Makes Graham Sessions Different?
29:20 - Why "Cool Kid Tables" Need More Chairs
34:00 - Practicing at the Top of Your Scope
37:42 - Tactics vs. Complaints: What PT Needs More Of
43:05 - Shark Tank for PT Ideas?
47:00 - Jimmy’s Radio Wisdom: Tight. Bright. Informative.
49:15 - Rebekah’s Parting Shot: People Want to Work, If It’s Worth It
What’s the fastest way for a PT student to make real change?
In this high-energy live episode from APTA NJ’s Student Conclave, veteran PT and fearless advocate Doula Riley shares the raw truth about regulation, career growth, and why now is the time for students to get involved — especially in election years.
Doula has worked nearly every PT setting… and survived mechanical bulls in multiple states. This convo blends serious insight with student-centered advice, career clarity, and just enough chaos to keep it Pintcast-approved.
???? Guest: Doula Riley, PT, advocate and clinical trailblazer
You’ll learn:
Physical therapy is having a moment — and not all of it is comfortable.
In this episode, Jimmy McKay breaks down a growing debate around PT salary, burnout, career growth, and work ethic, sparked by posts from veteran physical therapist Rob Panariello.
Rob argues that success in physical therapy comes from exceptional effort, clinical excellence, and personal responsibility — a framework that built many successful careers.
But newer physical therapists are asking a different question:
Does hard work still reliably convert into opportunity in today’s healthcare system?
This episode explores:
This isn’t a rant.
It’s a translation — between effort and incentives, experience and reality.
What does it really mean to advocate as a physical therapist — and where should students start?
In this live episode recorded at APTA New Jersey’s Student Conclave at Kean University, Ben Aguila pulls back the curtain on what actually happens inside the APTA House of Delegates. He shares how clinic owners can stay grassroots while thinking globally, how students can plug into real change, and why the best things in your career might start as accidents.
Topics Covered:
Sponsored by:
Clinic owners: your costs are rising, your reimbursements aren’t. So how do you protect your margins? In this episode, Jimmy chats with Joseph Lowe, a former PT turned rehab retail expert. Joseph reveals how clinics can generate $30K–$40K a year in retail revenue — without selling out or adding visit volume.
They cover:
???? Joseph’s prediction?
Someone will land a seven-figure product partnership. And it could be you.
Most PTs were taught to treat in 60-minute chunks. But what if the real value isn’t in the time... but the outcome?
In this episode, Jimmy sits down with Tony Maritato and Dave Kittle to unpack how physical therapists can stop marketing “minutes” and start delivering results. They dive into shorter sessions, clinic models, live selling, CEU partnerships, and the massive potential of selling outcomes over time.
Plus: a brainstorm on flipping leftover clinic time into high-converting, half-off offers. Think Groupon, but smarter — and built for PT.
If you’re a clinic owner, cash-based therapist, or entrepreneurial rehab pro… this is your roadmap to thinking like a modern healthcare business.
Why aren’t physical therapists paid like doctors — even though the outcomes prove they should be?
In this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy sits down with Josh Bailey, PT, to unpack the uncomfortable truth about reimbursement, CPT codes, employer contracting, and why physical therapy keeps getting boxed into time-based billing instead of value-based care.
Josh shares:
This episode is a must-listen for clinic owners, healthcare leaders, and PTs who want more than burnout and flat reimbursement.
⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Why PT Isn’t Paid Like Medicine
03:45 – Incentives, Insurance, and Misaligned Value
10:30 – Why CPT Codes Limit PT’s Worth
17:15 – Plantar Fasciitis: What PT School Got Wrong
26:45 – Effort, Grit, and the Path to Mastery
35:30 – Hiring for Character Over Credentials
44:50 – The Amazon Prime Lesson in Value
50:35 – Parting Shot: Treat PTs Like Doctors
Guest & ResourcesDr. Steve Ryland joins Jimmy to unpack UPTA, how they're taking action to fight Medicare bureaucracy, and why burnout isn’t a personal failure — it’s a design flaw in the system.
In this episode:
Why would a respected PT leader step back from the national stage?
Dr. Janet Bezner — former CAPTE chair, academic powerhouse, and leadership voice in PT — joins Jimmy to unpack career evolution, mentorship fatigue, and how identity shifts in the next chapter.
Whether you’re a new grad, seasoned faculty, or clinic owner facing “what’s next,” Janet offers insight into navigating transitions with purpose (and pastries ????).
In this episode, Jimmy, Dave, and Tony go deep into the evolving world of physical therapy, self-pay models, and the surprising economics of "train the trainer" models — including caregivers and personal trainers stepping into rehab roles.
00:00 - Intro: Coaching Caregivers & Trainers?
02:35 - Why Yanni’s model wouldn’t work 1-on-1
04:30 - Train the trainer: scam or strategy?
07:40 - Real-life example: training personal trainers for high net worth clients
10:12 - Talking numbers: $2K–$5K for short-term consulting?
13:45 - Client perception vs. price: mid-tier care model
16:10 - What if the caregiver is a spouse or child?
18:50 - The risk: trainers claiming to be “rehab pros”
22:40 - Dave’s fear: giving away your IP?
26:00 - Why PTs should think like restaurants (value meals!)
29:20 - Supersize it: self-pay services + product sales
32:10 - Massage guns & missed revenue streams
35:00 - Satire: Stim Nap™, CPT Sauce™, SuctionX™
38:42 - The burnout talk: PT students losing hope
41:20 - Asking for a raise the right way
43:00 - Final thoughts + guest links
We unpack:
???? Guest shoutouts:
???? Whether you're a clinic owner, employee, student, or side-hustler in PT — this one's packed with strategy, honesty, and a good dose of sarcasm.
Your marketing doesn't suck. But your strategy might.In this episode, Jimmy breaks down how to build campaigns that work — not because they’re loud, but because they’re smart. From bar promos and billboards to multi-channel experiences, this is a tactical deep dive into why attention is earned, not bought.
Perfect for clinic owners, practice marketers, or rehab pros ready to think differently and stop throwing money at trends.
???? What You’ll Learn:
???? Want more? Visit ptpinecast.com or follow us @ptpinecast on all socials.
00:00 – Why most marketing doesn’t work
04:12 – Real reason patients don’t respond to ads
10:45 – CMO vs CEO misalignment = disaster
16:33 – How to create attention without yelling
22:18 – Designing campaigns backwards (start with the end)
30:45 – The billboard over the parade (smart strategy)
37:29 – The Maxim Contest: Bar marketing masterclass
47:05 – What Bud Light did right (Real Men of Genius)
53:30 – Parting shots: How to know what matters
57:10 – Why value is always *perceived* value
“You don’t need to be a Navy SEAL to be resilient — you just need to learn to build fire with no tools.”
In this raw and wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Alex Bendersky, Head of Clinical Innovation, shares real-world lessons from complexity theory, resilience, and leadership inside modern healthcare systems.
We go deep on:
Alex’s perspective blends deep theory with grounded clinical reality — this one’s a mindset shift you didn’t know you needed.
⚡️ “Most of the systems that affect PTs are outside their control. But the one system you can control? The one between your ears.”
???? Listen if you’re a PT, clinic owner, or healthcare leader dealing with:
???? Connect with Alex Bendersky → LinkedIn
This episode hits hard on mindset, marketing, and meaning. Jimmy and Rebekah unpack:
Whether you're a PT, clinic owner, or someone ready to go on offense in 2026, this one's a must-listen.
SPONSORS:Pre-Roll:
Brooks IHL — Level up your clinical game: https://brooksihl.org
Mid-Roll + PSA:
Empower EMR — The EMR PTs actually asked for: https://empoweremr.com
Team Gleason PSA — Supporting people with ALS.
Pre-Parting Shot:
U.S. Physical Therapy — Build your career with USPH: https://usph.com
???? Physical therapy clinics don’t need another EMR — they need a new business model. In this episode, TONY, DAVE and JIMMY unpack the “PT Lite” model, how insurance can be your Costco hot dog, and why premium upsells aren’t dirty — they’re how you grow.
???? Whether you're a clinic owner, staff PT, or rehab entrepreneur, this conversation shows you how to repackage your value, attract better-fit clients, and build something scalable.
⏱️ CHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Intro
02:13 - How "PT Lite" unlocks new patients
09:22 - The barrier to short visits: PT psychology
13:40 - Using ChatGPT as a triage funnel
17:55 - Smart marketing with AI tools
21:45 - Insurance as a loss-leader: like Costco’s hot dog
25:30 - Upselling ethically in physical therapy
28:20 - The Gold’s Gym clinic model
33:40 - Pricing mindset: why PTs undercharge
39:00 - The gym-to-premium pipeline strategy
Craig Lindell, co-founder of Prehab Guys, joins Jimmy to break down how one of the most recognizable brands in PT actually got built — and the hard lessons learned along the way.
???? In this episode:
???? In this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy McKay sits down with Tony Maritato for a no-BS breakdown of what’s broken in physical therapy — from EMR burnout and Medicare cuts to flexible scheduling, patient engagement, and why PT clinics should think more like golf courses.
This conversation is a must-watch for:
✅ Physical therapists
✅ Clinic owners
✅ Healthcare entrepreneurs
✅ Anyone ready to “choose their hard” and rethink how we deliver value in 2026.
Whether you're tired of CPT code chaos or just want a better way to run your practice, you're in the right place.
???? CHAPTERS (click to skip):
00:00 - Cold Open & Welcome
02:45 - Why Your EMR is Killing You
08:30 - CPT Code Crystal Ball (Satire Ad Read)
13:45 - What Golf Teaches Us About Scheduling
20:01 - PT Tee Time: Flex Pricing & Creative Booking
29:50 - Medicare Reimbursement & Inflation Math
35:12 - Why Advocacy is a Losing Game
44:00 - Choose Your Hard: Exit or Evolve?
50:33 - Final Rants: Adam Meakins, Mel Robbins & The Business of Business
Welcome to the new weekly series Marketing Doesn’t Work! — where marketing myths go to die and healthcare strategies get real. In this kickoff episode, host Jimmy McKay sits down with marketing pro Andrea Cheney to answer the question on every clinic owner’s mind:
What should we start, stop, and continue in 2026?You’ll hear:
Plus: A listener question on converting social views to actual appointments.
???? Follow for weekly episodes that make you rethink what “marketing” even means in healthcare.
Dr. Steve Karas — PT, educator, researcher, and data-driven advocate for change in DPT education.
In this episode:
Steve’s message is clear:
Stop setting students up to survive school. Start setting them up to succeed in life.
Sponsor Shoutouts
This solo episode digs into a simple but uncomfortable question:
If you criticize other healthcare providers for misleading claims…Have you checked your own website lately?Jimmy breaks down the full “claim spectrum” from safe to dangerous, outlines why PTs often imply more than they say, and gives you 7 practical questions to audit your own messaging.
It’s not about lying.
It’s about expectations.
And the fact that marketing preloads belief before a patient even walks through the door.
???? Show Resources:
00:00 – Intro: It’s not about Stretch Labs
00:20 – What this episode IS about: Your messaging
01:10 – The fair critique of assisted stretching
02:00 – Do PTs make similar promises?
02:30 – PTs don’t lie… but we do imply
03:15 – “Fix the root cause” vs “Eliminate pain”
04:05 – Green, Yellow, Red: Claim spectrum explained
05:10 – The 7-Question Website Audit
06:30 – Why expectations matter more than outcomes
07:20 – Stretch Studios aren’t evil — just better at messaging
07:50 – Closing thoughts & CTA
???? Sponsors:
???? Subscribe & Follow:
Episode Summary: In this episode, Jimmy is joined by Tony Maritato and Dave Kittle to talk about how physical therapists can rethink pricing, marketing, and content creation. From charging what you’re worth to repackaging accountability, they break down tactical strategies clinic owners can use right now.
What You’ll Learn:
Guest Links:
Sponsor Mentions:
PSA Feature:
???? Subscribe: https://www.ptpintcast.com/
Physical therapy doesn’t lack ideas — it lacks follow-through.
In this episode, Jimmy McKay and Rebekah Griffith unpack why PT conferences, committees, and leadership spaces often feel repetitive and disconnected from real-world change. They explore how clearer communication, intentional content, and defined success metrics could radically improve engagement across the profession.
Topics CoveredAre you stepping over dollars to pick up dimes? Jimmy and Tony get real about the trap so many physical therapists fall into — chasing insurance reimbursement while leaving more profitable (and sustainable) opportunities on the table.
???? What You'll Learn:
????️ This episode is fire for:
???? TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 – Intro + stepping over dollars 03:15 – The $250 mistake PTs keep making 06:40 – Slap in the face pricing: Why discounts kill value 09:02 – Who’s your dream patient (tail-wag test)? 13:22 – Peace Corps guilt + the fallacy of fairness 16:30 – Why insurance doesn’t care if you save costs 19:11 – Monetizing visits through media 23:00 – The “Free PT” Model 25:45 – Is it unethical to go all-in on content? 28:30 – The Mr. Beast effect in healthcare 33:10 – The future of PT: Twitch, media, and real reach
Dr. Hoda Salsabili — founder of HemScap, creator of Pivotal PT, and professor focused on integrating AI into physical therapy education.
In this episode:
Guest Links:
Sponsor Shoutouts:
???? Subscribe & Follow:
In this episode, Jimmy talks with fractional healthcare marketing strategist Andrea Tager about why most physical therapy and healthcare content completely misses its mark. You’ll learn how to craft messaging that resonates with the right person (hint: it’s often not the patient), why demographics don’t work in isolation, and what to do when your clinic’s “reach” isn’t converting to results.
Topics Covered:
Guest: Andrea Tager
???? LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreatager/
Sponsor Shoutouts:
PSA:
Support kids through Go Baby Go and their ride-on mobility projects → Learn More
In This Episode:
Sponsored By:
Clinic owners and physical therapists — this one’s a wake-up call. Jimmy dives into why 76% of referrals never start PT care and how friction at every stage of the funnel — forms, phone tag, poor UX — drives patients away. You’ll also hear how concierge PT is changing expectations, why Netflix would never make you fax, and the real fixes every clinic can implement to stop the bleeding.
What You’ll Learn:
Sponsors:
PSA: Go Baby Go → Support mobility for kids: [Link Placeholder]
Subscribe & Follow:
Apple → https://apple.co/3IP8U0O
Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
Website → https://www.ptpintcast.com/
Why are PTs so bad at keeping patients long-term? And why do most clinic owners burn out before they break through? Dr. Danny Matta returns to the show with real talk for rehab entrepreneurs who want more than just insurance-based care.
In this no-fluff conversation, Danny breaks down:
This is for any PT who’s burned out, scaling up, or ready to stop making the same mistakes.
⏱️ Timestamps / YouTube Chapters00:00 – Intro
02:13 – How Danny found purpose again after burnout
06:51 – Why most PTs suck at evaluating patients
12:34 – Lifetime patient value: what most clinics miss
17:02 – The ONE KPI to track: continuity percentage
22:45 – Scaling too fast: how Danny almost lost his clinic
28:19 – Selling wellness, performance, and lifestyle services
35:10 – How to market to returning patients
41:25 – Burnout reset routines
47:00 – Legacy advice + “Climb the right mountain”
54:00 – Parting Shot: Your perfect week starts with this
???? Guest Links + ResourcesLive selling. Retail revenue. Trust-based care delivery. In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy, Dave, and Tony explain how PTs can tap into rising demand for elder care and retail-style revenue streams. Learn how to position your clinic as a trusted resource—not just for therapy, but for products, caregivers, and lifestyle support.
What You’ll Learn
Hosts
???? Jimmy McKay – PT Pintcast
???? Dave Kittle – The Dave Kittle Show
???? Tony Maritato – MedicareBilling
Episode Title: Marketing Doesn’t Work! (Until You Understand the Customer Journey)
Series: PT Pintcast
Guest: Andrea Tager, Fractional Marketing Leader | LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andreatagercheney
Host: Jimmy McKay | ptpintcast.com
What You’ll Learn:[00:00:00] Why “Marketing Doesn’t Work” (and who this is for)
[00:04:12] Sales process vs. the real customer journey
[00:08:33] Invisible decision-making: Reddit, Yelp, and 3am Google
[00:12:10] Random acts of marketing = random results
[00:16:40] Tactics vs. Strategy: The content trap
[00:23:18] What branding really means (and what it doesn’t)
[00:29:10] Patchwork marketing gets patchwork results
[00:36:05] Apple’s Mac vs. PC ads: A lesson in clarity
[00:42:55] Messaging mistakes clinics make
[00:49:00] Game time: Mushy or Mighty (live feedback)
[00:54:00] Andrea’s parting advice for clinic owners
[00:57:00] What’s next on PT Pintcast
Notable Quotes:“You’re not Apple. Yet.”“Marketing without strategy is just expensive noise.”“You’re not pizza — you don’t need to please everyone.”“Motion without direction is just a monkey humping a football.”???? Throwback episode! This conversation with Jimmy McKay, PT, DPT was originally recorded in 2022, and we’re bringing it back as part of our 10-year anniversary celebration of the Everything PT Podcast.
In this classic interview, Jimmy — the creator and host of PT Pintcast — takes us behind the scenes of his unique path from radio DJ to physical therapist, and how he used communication, content, and a pint of beer to create one of the most influential brands in physical therapy.
???? What you’ll learn:
In this episode of PT Breakfast Club, the team gets into the weeds of modern clinic operations — from pricing dilemmas and payer limitations to creative ways to scale without hiring. Topics range from Medicare regulations and concierge models to hilarious but real tactics like dry needling for dogs and influencer-style job posts.
Topics include:
Featured Segments:
Mentioned in this episode:
Pelvic health physical therapist Faith Stokes brings the ???? in this candid conversation on treating the misunderstood — from Hard Flaccid Syndrome to trauma-informed care. She shares her unique journey from reptile medicine to healthcare, her CSM 2025 talk, and how she handles the hard cases with heart and humility.
In this episode:
Featured at CSM 2025:
???? “It’s Not That Hard: Clinical Reasoning in the Management of Hard Flaccid Syndrome”
Guest: Phil McKelvy, DPT
Topics: Parkinson’s care without neuro certs, RTM implementation, digital health, and balancing clinical work with creative PT projects.
What you’ll learn:
Resources Mentioned:
Phil’s Contact:
This episode dives into the collision of physical therapy, content strategy, and the booming wellness economy. Jimmy and Dave discuss:
???? Resources Mentioned:
???? Subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the show.
What if you never had to "recruit" again? In this episode of PT Pintcast, Will Humphreys shares how physical therapy clinic owners can build teams through connection, vision, and emotion — not just job postings. You’ll learn how to write job ads that feel like love letters, how to use intentional friction to filter out bad fits, and why creating safety is your most powerful leadership tool.
About the Guest:
Will Humphreys is a PT, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Freedom Through Profits, where he helps practice owners grow profitable businesses they love. He previously built and exited a successful clinic group and now teaches others how to scale with systems, purpose, and heart.
Will's Ultimate PT OT SLP Summit: https://www.summit.virtualrockstar.com/
What You’ll Learn:
Links + Mentions:
???? Will Humphreys on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@willhumphreys
???? Reach out to Will: https://freedomthroughprofits.com
???? More from PT Pintcast: https://www.ptpintcast.com
???? Get Will’s Free Hiring Email Template: https://freedomthroughprofits.com/hiring-letter
???? Book Mention: Start With Why by Simon Sinek
Today’s PT Breakfast Club serves up fake ads and real strategy.
From a podcast started with $80 and a mic in a PT school bedroom — we now outrank million-dollar marketing departments. Why? Consistency. Vision. Showing up.
In this episode:
This one hits hard, gets weird, and ends on a chicken.
This episode goes deep with Logan from Blue Rose Physical Therapy and Blue Rose Running on why ROI should stand for Return on Impact, not investment.
We break down the truth about running injuries, the psychology behind pain, and why trust is the #1 clinical skill PT school barely teaches.
Plus — our segment “Run It or Rethink It,” where we tackle stretching, shoe mileage, gait analysis, and more.
PTs talk about business education like it’s Bigfoot — everyone says it exists, nobody has actually seen it. So Jimmy McKay and David Fathalikhani decided to stop waiting for someone else to build it.
In this episode, they break down the creation of the first crowd-sourced, free MBA-style curriculum for physical therapists, launching January 1, 2026.
You’ll hear:
Whether you’re launching a cash practice, growing a clinic, or just want to understand the business of healthcare, this is the foundation for everything that comes next.
Jimmy, Tony, and Dave dive into the real business of being a creator in healthcare. From product video rates to licensing fees, unfiltered insight flows in this wide-ranging conversation built to empower clinicians to price fairly, think like entrepreneurs, and show up with confidence.
???? Topics Covered:
????️ Hosts & Guests:
???? Subscribe & Follow
This was supposed to be PT Book Club.
Instead, Jimmy and The ED DPT rebuilt healthcare from scratch.
In this episode:
One of the best tangent episodes we’ve ever had.
????️ Guest: Rebekah Griffith, The ED DPT
The “Best Fake PT on LinkedIn” is back.
Hunter McWhorter joins us to talk messaging, longevity, branding, wellness, collaboration, and why PTs are standing in front of a trillion-dollar wave without a surfboard.
You’ll hear:
• Why gyms are quietly eating PT’s lunch
• What Farmer’s Dog can teach PTs about messaging
• Why clear communication = survival in 2026
• Why PT desperately needs more outsiders
• Supplements, stigma & hot takes
• Collaboration > competition
Plus:
Sponsor shoutouts from Brooks IHL (Residencies/Fellowships) and Empower EMR, and a PSA for Team Gleason.
Share with a colleague who needs better messaging in their life.
Guest: Jason Craig
Organization: Global Community Health Volunteers
Jason shares his 15-year journey running interdisciplinary global health trips for physical therapy, pre-med, and nursing students. From the first trip to Costa Rica shot on a camcorder, to this year's 26-student PT cohort in Guatemala, this episode is about impact, storytelling, and what it really means to serve communities abroad — and why students (and donors) keep coming back.
Topics Covered:
Support the Mission:
→ Follow Jason Craig for updates and stories
→ Reach out if your organization wants to get involved
Subscribe to PT Pintcast:
Episode Summary:
The physical therapy profession is facing a perfect storm: DOE loan limitations, rising automation, and an identity vacuum. In this episode, Jimmy McKay and guests pull no punches, calling out broken models and offering an inspired, action-oriented vision for creators, clinicians, and associations alike.
Whether you’re running a clinic, building a brand, or looking for more meaning — this is your reminder: you are not just a biller. You are a builder.
Takeaways:
Shoutouts:
Will Boyd, Dana, David Rouen, Drew (the A+ shooter ????), and every creator thinking bigger than a 9-5.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re making the right financial moves as a clinician, this episode is your playbook.
Will Butler, PT turned financial advisor, breaks down the real-world money lessons every therapist wishes they learned in school—from disability insurance to income protection to keeping more of the money you work hard to earn.
Will’s mission is simple: help clinicians build financial confidence so they can build better careers and better lives.
In this episode, we cover:
Why this conversation matters:
You can replace a job. You can replace money.
You can’t replace time.
Smart financial decisions buy back your freedom.
Follow:
Deep Dive:
Guest:
Tony Maritato – PT, creator, educator, and YouTube host of Learn Medicare Billing
In This Episode:
Links & Resources:
Connect With Us:
Today’s episode digs into a huge question for PTs and healthcare entrepreneurs: What’s your value compared to the alternatives? Whether it’s AI tools, YouTube videos, massage, or urgent care — patients are making decisions before they ever call you. Jimmy McKay is joined by PT powerhouses Tony Maritato and Dave Kittle for an honest, funny, and practical conversation about branding, pricing, value, and launching your business without overthinking.
Featured Guests:
Connect with PT Pintcast:
???? Website: https://www.ptpintcast.com/
???? Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-pintcast-physical-therapy/id1000443325
???? Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3LmMUT64yrUc2iGo9Emafc
???? YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PTPintcast
???? Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptpintcast
???? Twitter/X: https://x.com/PTPintcast
???? LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-mckay-pt-dpt-a4207659/
This week from the PT Breakfast Club, the crew breaks down what Prompt got right at PPS — and what the rest of the profession is still missing. From live streaming to message clarity, slippery UX, and how fuzzy slippers prove your EMR needs a rebuild.
Plus, why AI is already reshaping SEO and why PTs need to lean into being experts — not just practitioners.
Takeaways:
In this episode, the guys tackle the business side of physical therapy — what it really takes to build a content machine, how to handle patient pushback, and what role strategy plays in both marketing and patient communication. Plus, a real-world breakdown of a $350 cancellation fee situation that spirals into a full-on legal threat.
Topics Covered:
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Susan Lukens speaks with Katie about LAMP Leadership and the APTA's Academy of Leadership and Innovation.
You can learn more about this topics HERE:
https://www.aptaali.org/page/LAMPCertificatePrograms
https://www.aptaali.org/
Episode Title: The GLP-1 Opportunity: PT Marketing That Actually Converts
Guests:
????️ Dave Kittle
????️ Tony Maritato
Topics Covered:
In this episode, we challenge the norms of physical therapy pricing, care delivery, and content creation. From charging what you're worth to turning every session into a piece of content, this is a masterclass in business for healthcare providers. If you’ve ever struggled with raising your rates, justifying your value, or leveraging media — this one is for you.
We dig into:
???? Mic Drop Quote:
“I don’t know how to hit half a home run. Half a home run is a pop-out to second base.”????⚕️ Perfect For:
Jimmy McKay and Katie Sutton speak with David Fathalikhani, live from APTA's Future of Rehab Therapy Summit.
Physical therapists: tired of “spray and pray” marketing? In this episode, we break down real-world, trackable strategies for local clinic marketing — including a $3/day Facebook ad campaign that generated 3 million views and real patient leads. No fluff, no boosting — just data-backed, practical tips you can implement today.
???? Whether you're a clinic owner or a solo PT, this episode will help you understand:
PTs — ready to make more money without burning out in the clinic?
In this week’s “Six Pack” episode, Jimmy and Tony drop the 6 best side hustles for physical therapists in 2026.
They break down what each hustle is, how to start it, how much it costs, and how much you can actually make:
Whether you’re side-hustling for freedom or future-proofing your career, this episode gives you actionable ideas you can start this month.
???? The PT Breakfast Club is your weekly live show for business-savvy healthcare pros who want to build smarter clinics, stronger brands, and better lives.
Is it ILLEGAL for DNPs to call themselves Doctors?
How to Build a Cash-Based PT Clinic You Can Actually Sell
Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato (with Jimmy in transit) go deep on what really makes a physical therapy practice valuable—and sellable—without chaining the owner to a treatment table. They break down the core systems (SOPs, hiring pipelines, retention), whether paid ads beat organic, and the ethics of charging more for high-friction patients (“personality tax”). They also touch on selling white-label supplements, liability concerns, and what to do when online reviews go off the rails.
You’ll learn:
PT Breakfast Club 9/23
Daniel Hauge: Live at APTA's Future of Rehab Therapy Summit
Odell Miller: Live at APTA's Future of Rehab Therapy Summit
Cracker Barrel Logo Fall out - PT Breakfast Club 8/26
Turning Failure into Flowers - PT Breakfast Club 8/21
What if a Marketing Company Designed an EMR?
Most physical therapists open a clinic to help more people — and end up buried in 60+ hour weeks, overwhelmed, and stuck in the treatment room. In this episode, business coach Steven Allred shares exactly how to make the shift from clinician to true CEO — without sacrificing your passion for care.
We dig into:
Most PTs focus on protocols, techniques, and outcomes—but what if the biggest differentiator in clinical success is how you think about your thinking?
In this episode, Kyle shares his journey from treating patients internationally to mentoring new grads and running multi-clinic practices. He unpacks how metacognition, communication, and leadership can transform both patient outcomes and professional growth.
As a physical therapist, your focus is helping patients — but what about protecting your business? In this episode, we sit down with Michael Uzar, founder of Rehab Risk Consulting, who helps rehab clinics reduce legal, financial, and reputational risk.
Mike shares his unique journey from PTA to DPT to risk management pro, and reveals the most common mistakes clinics make that could lead to lawsuits, HIPAA violations, or costly data breaches. If you own or work in a PT clinic, this is essential listening.
In this episode, we cover:
What happens when two rural physical therapists in Montana are forced to shut down their clinics during COVID? For Emily Herndon and Samantha Schmidt, it was the beginning of something much bigger—a journey into legislative advocacy that would change physical therapy in their state.
In this episode, they share how a telehealth billing loophole, a lawyer husband, and sheer necessity propelled them into leadership roles within the APTA. From drafting legal opinions to fighting for Medicaid reimbursement above Medicare rates, this conversation is packed with insight, strategy, and inspiration for any PT ready to make change.
If you’ve ever thought, “What can one PT really do?” — this episode is your answer.
Topics Covered:
Guests:
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Guest: Josh (Operations Consultant & PT Process Strategist)
In this episode of PT Pintcast, we sit down with Griffin Shimkus, co-founder of RelayRTM, to explore the future of RTM (Remote Therapeutic Monitoring) and why your clinic should be paying attention now.
Griffin shares how his background in home health led to creating a solution that helps clinics capture revenue they’re currently missing — without new apps, new tech, or upfront costs.
We cover:
In this episode, we sit down with Christian, a top-tier healthcare recruiter and the mind behind one of the largest LinkedIn communities for rehab professionals (170K+ members). Christian pulls back the curtain on what really drives hiring success for physical therapy clinics — and what’s quietly sabotaging it.
If you're a PT clinic owner, healthcare manager, or even an overwhelmed therapist stuck doing HR between patients, this episode will change the way you look at recruiting forever.
What does it really mean to be a leader in today’s complex healthcare world? In this conversation, Jimmy McKay sits down with two long-time friends and leadership pros — JJ and Lucas — to challenge outdated leadership myths and offer a roadmap for leading with empathy, clarity, and impact.
Whether you're a clinic owner, healthcare manager, or a PT looking to step into more responsibility, this episode breaks down the shift from old-school top-down authority to human-centered leadership that actually works.
In this episode, we cover:This episode will leave you thinking differently about how you lead, speak, and grow in your career — and it might just spark the shift you didn’t know you needed.
Guests: J.J. Kuczynski and Lucas VanEtten
Episode Highlights:
Tools & Resources Mentioned:
Katie Sutton and Jimmy McKay dive into the major shakeups coming in rehab therapy:
- The PT/PTA/OTA workforce shortage and why high schoolers are choosing other paths
- The power of *unpacking* a career before diving in
- 5–10% innovation boosts that actually stick—no panaceas
- Why PTAs and digital tools are set to shoulder more care (and business!) load
- The importance of leaning into *unsafe* zones first — “luck favors the bold”
Tune in from DC as we head to the summit—expect insights, surprises, and actionable predictions!
How do you build a thriving physical therapy business in the middle of Manhattan while surviving cancer—three times—and undergoing a lung transplant? You lean on grit, community, and the undeniable will to live, love, and lead.
Meet Cynthia, a force of nature in the PT world and beyond. In this powerful conversation, Cynthia shares:
You’ll hear about resilience, self-talk, business mistakes, and the moments that shaped her as a healer and leader. Whether you’re a clinic owner, PT student, or just someone navigating adversity—this one’s for you.
⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Why PTs Make Great Storytellers
00:22 – Cynthia’s Life-Defining Grit
02:50 – Starting a Practice After Cancer
05:30 – Business Failure, Then Business Boom
08:00 – Treating Patients Through Chemo
10:30 – A Second Diagnosis and Choosing Fertility
13:40 – Endurance Training as Healing
17:00 – Building Client Cohorts Through Triathlons
19:15 – Coping Mechanisms and Self-Talk
23:00 – Leadership Lessons from Scaling in NYC
25:10 – Strategic Partnerships: Can’t Do It Alone
27:30 – Building a Brand That Heals and Inspires
Physical therapists: tired of relying on referrals that never come? Discover how concierge PT and podcast host Dave Kittle uses high-trust networking events to fuel cash-pay patient growth, referral partnerships, and collaborative opportunities — all without traditional ads.
Learn how to structure the perfect dinner event, avoid overdoing your outreach, and build lasting relationships with providers and businesses in your area.
Chapters:
00:00 - Intro: Why Relationship-First Marketing Wins
03:12 - Why Guerrilla Marketing is the New Standard
07:45 - Dinner Strategy 101: Who to Invite, What to Ask
15:22 - The “High School You” Question That Stops People Cold
20:40 - How Table Layout Impacts Conversation Dynamics
27:51 - Don’t Overdo It: The Anti-Scavenger Hunt Rant
34:00 - Luxury Personal Training & MSO Partnerships
39:20 - How to Collaborate Without Competing
43:12 - Creating a Rise-Together Provider Network
In this episode, Jimmy McKay sits down with podcasting legend Dave Jackson of School of Podcasting to answer a key question for healthcare providers and clinic owners: Is podcasting worth it if your show is small?
Dave shares insights from nearly 20 years of podcasting experience, including:
Heidi Jannenga returns to PT Pintcast to break down the 10th annual State of Rehab Therapy Report. This year’s conversation covers the bright spots—like salary growth and the increased adoption of hybrid care—and the hard truths about burnout, job-hopping, and the pressure on clinic margins. Heidi also shares how AI is already reshaping clinical workflows and why hybrid care will likely become the new standard.
We also spotlight the work of the Rising Tide Foundation, which is helping bring more diverse students into the PT profession with scholarships, networking, and mentorship.
What You’ll Learn:
Links & Resources:
Subscribe to PT Pintcast:
In this value-packed episode, host Jimmy McKay sits down with Aaron LeBauer, a leading voice in the cash-based physical therapy world, to bust myths, challenge industry assumptions, and unpack what actually works when building a profitable PT business today. They cover the evolution of PT opportunities post-pandemic, how to position your services in a shifting economy, pricing strategies, the reality of insurance limitations, and why creating genuine value always trumps traditional pathways.
Whether you’re a new grad or a seasoned PT, this episode will reshape the way you think about the future of physical therapy and entrepreneurship.
In this episode, Kayla breaks down how JAG Physical Therapy scaled from 2 locations to over 160 — and the marketing strategy behind it.
We cover:
Episode Highlights:
Aaron Bauer joins the show to unpack the evolution of AI scribes in physical therapy. He explains how ambient AI tools like Athelas AI Scribe are reducing documentation time, increasing note quality, and making patient care more efficient — all while staying HIPAA compliant. Whether you're tech-savvy or hesitant, Aaron breaks down how easy it is to implement AI into your workflow and the surprising benefits you might not expect.
Key Topics:
Aaron Bauer joins the show to unpack the evolution of AI scribes in physical therapy. He explains how ambient AI tools like Athelas AI Scribe are reducing documentation time, increasing note quality, and making patient care more efficient — all while staying HIPAA compliant. Whether you're tech-savvy or hesitant, Aaron breaks down how easy it is to implement AI into your workflow and the surprising benefits you might not expect.
Key Topics:
✅ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
What if a single Instagram post led to your next top referral partner? In this episode, Jimmy McKay is joined by Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato to break down the power of real patient content, community trust, and creating before you’re “ready.” You’ll hear how a free golden ticket visit turned into a viral story and why content is the gateway to opportunity — even if no one’s watching (yet). Plus, how AI is helping therapists reduce cognitive load and focus more on patient care.
Resources & Links:
What if your clinic could generate an extra $10K–$20K per month—legally and sustainably—without seeing more patients or hiring more staff?
That’s the question today’s guest, Chad O from Thrive Med, is answering for physical therapists and clinic owners looking to break out of the hamster wheel of healthcare. The Thrive Med model helps outpatient rehab clinics integrate ultrasound-guided trigger point therapy, dry needling, and other medically billable services into their existing workflow—even in states like New York where PTs can’t perform them directly.
Joshua Breighner, owner of Walk in New York, joins the show to reveal how his neurorehab clinic in Midtown Manhattan is breaking down barriers in access to cutting-edge rehab technology. From robotic exoskeletons to sustainable market access strategies, Joshua explains how tech can drive evidence-based care—not just look impressive.
We dive into:
This episode is essential for PTs, clinic owners, and healthcare entrepreneurs curious about bringing meaningful innovation into their practice—without getting lost in hype or red tape.
In this no-holds-barred discussion, Jimmy McKay sits down with Tony Maritato and Dave Kittle to ask a question most PTs avoid: is operating like a “mill” really that bad? They break down the realities of modern reimbursement, how patients actually perceive care models, and what savvy clinic owners can do today to thrive — even in a crowded system.
Topics Covered:
Links & Resources:
What does it take to keep Broadway performers injury-free and on stage? Marissa Schaefer, PT and founder of FlySpace in NYC, joins Jimmy to unpack the challenges of performer rehab and why most PT models aren’t built for this level of demand.
We talk about the “reactive” care systems that dominate the industry, the concept of reconditioning after injury, and how PTs can better serve high-performance artists.
Topics Covered:
Guest: Marissa Schaefer, PT, DPT
In this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy McKay talks with Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato about the cutting edge of physical therapy and healthcare delivery:
In this episode, the PT Pintcast crew — Jimmy, Dave Kittle, and Tony Maritato — unpack the difference between what PTs do and what they sell. Spoiler: It’s not shockwave therapy. From leveraging emotional branding to avoiding compliance pitfalls, this is the episode every growth-minded clinic owner needs.
Topics Covered:
Connect with Us:
From prototyping with elastic straps to running a multi-product health tech company, Shon Harker is redefining what it means to “build better rehab.”
In this episode, we explore how he creates safer treadmills, gait-retraining tools, and functional resistance systems — all grounded in real-world clinical needs. He breaks down how motorless treadmills reprogram movement, the power of walking in neuroplasticity, and why execution always beats ideas.
Guest: Shon Harker
CEO & Founder, Innovator of multiple rehab and training systems
Original Airdate: Oct. 17, 2022
Will Butler is a physical therapist turned financial advisor on a mission to change healthcare by improving the lives of clinicians through financial education and planning.
Episode Takeaways
Three Questions
Parting Shot
“When you engage a professional, respond to the professional even if you’re uncomfortable with the feedback you might receive.” - Will Butler
Physical therapists, clinic owners, and healthcare innovators—this one’s for you.
In this episode of PT Pintcast, we’re calling out the BS behind long hospital waitlists and helping private practice PTs cut through the noise. If you’ve ever wondered how to build a patient base from scratch, market to people who are actually motivated, or show up on social media with value — this one’s for you.
You’ll learn:
Tony Maritato and Dave Kittle return to PT Pintcast with a deep (and hilarious) dive into the future of physical therapy, AI’s role in care, and how clinicians can thrive by adapting—not resisting.
In this episode, we dismantle the traditional content grind and replace it with a Netflix-inspired approach to content creation for clinics. Jimmy, Tony Maritato, and Dave Kittle riff on wild ideas — from pirate therapy and PT on oil rigs, to BYOB group therapy and recruiting with Casey Neistat-style vlogs.
What You’ll Learn:
Mentioned in This Episode:
Burnout, billing chaos, and low reimbursement are crushing PT clinics — but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, Jimmy is joined by Aaron Bauer and Averil Sutcharfrom Athelas, a tech-first company tackling healthcare’s toughest problems using real-time data, automation, and AI.
They share their journeys from practicing PTs to clinic advisors, and how they’re helping teams reclaim time, improve margins, and actually enjoy patient care again.
In This Episode:
In this bold and future-focused PT Breakfast Club, Jimmy, Dave, and Tony tackle debt, growth, AI, and intake innovation in physical therapy. From how to buy a practice using only $50K, to why patient forms need a serious AI upgrade, this episode hits hard on what matters now — and what’s coming next.
In This Episode:
Guest/Host Links:
In this episode, Jeremy DuPont from Patch System shares why blasting your email list is a fast track to losing trust — and what to do instead. We discuss reactivation campaigns, the importance of showing up in the inbox with value, and why today's clinic owners have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build practices with real enterprise value.
Topics Covered:
Guest Links:
This week’s conversation pulls no punches: it’s time to stop waiting for someone to save your PT career. If you’re not embracing change, building tech literacy, and developing self-awareness, you’re falling behind.
We cover:
Former professional pitcher Justin Stiver shares his journey from the minor leagues to physical therapy entrepreneurship — scaling from 1 to 7 clinics, developing a mobile therapy team, and building a powerful real estate portfolio along the way.
In this episode, you'll hear:
Guest Resources:
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Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | LinkedIn | Instagram | Website | Twitter/X
Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato go all in on the real issues PTs face in 2025: burnout, bureaucracy, and whether your license is actually worth it anymore. This is a raw, transparent conversation for clinicians fed up with “check-the-box” education and broken billing expectations.
In this jam-packed episode, the trio of Jimmy, Dave, and Tony break down key financial, operational, and strategic considerations for PT clinic owners. Whether you're hiring, optimizing, or acquiring — you'll walk away smarter.
Featured Guests:
Cody, a physical therapist turned business development lead at a rehab tech startup, shares his winding and inspirational path through full-time clinical care, entrepreneurship, concierge PT, and global service work. From launching the Rise & Walk—a game-changing neuro rehab tool—to surfing and treating patients in El Salvador, Cody embodies the spirit of "helping without the table."
Feeling stuck or burned out in your physical therapy career? You're not alone — and you're not without options. In this episode, we talk with Cody about how service trips, career pivots, and blending clinical skills with entrepreneurship helped him design a career that reignited his passion for PT. If you're wondering if you can love being a PT again — or if you can change without quitting — this one's for you.
This week on PT Pintcast, Jimmy McKay sits down with Dave Kittle and Tony Maritato to tackle one of the biggest questions facing physical therapists today: Should you go big, go solo, or go home?
We explore the real differences between working in corporate PT chains vs. independent practices. Plus, we highlight how organizations like Fox Rehab scaled without losing their culture — and why that’s the key to long-term retention and success.
Topics covered:
Guests Mentioned:
Subscribe & Follow:
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | ptpintcast.com
Many physical therapists and PTAs hit a career crossroads—burnout, stagnation, or the itch to try something new. In this episode, Jimmy and Katie Sutton from PTA+ podcast walk through a 4-question framework inspired by James Clear to help you rethink your next move.
If you’ve ever asked yourself: "What else can I do with my skills?" or "Am I stuck in this role forever?" — this episode is for you.
Will Humphreys shares how PTs and clinic owners can grow sustainably by embracing virtual assistants and redefining leadership as service. From avoiding hiring mistakes to leveraging social media and podcasting for recruiting, this episode is packed with practical advice, personal stories, and business insights that speak directly to the PT profession’s evolving landscape.
Links & Resources:
NASA PT Danielle Anderson and strength coach Corey Twine give us an inside look at how they train and protect astronauts before, during, and after missions. From heart rate monitoring to resistance training in space, they break down the science behind keeping the human body strong when gravity is gone.
Topics Covered:
Follow PT Pintcast & Stay Connected:
In this episode, real estate expert Colin Carr joins the show to share hard-won insights from helping over 5,500 healthcare providers negotiate their real estate deals.
If you think you can DIY your next lease or purchase, this episode will change your mind.
What You’ll Learn:
Connect with Colin Carr:
In this episode of PT Pintcast, Jimmy McKay is joined by Dave Kittle to talk about rethinking how physical therapy clinics market, grow, and make financial decisions. From building community “challenge” events to uncovering hidden financial inefficiencies, this episode is a tactical roadmap for clinic owners.
We cover:
Tools & resources mentioned:
Steve Anderson returns to share his 10 favorite leadership lessons from over 230 episodes of his Profiles in Leadership podcast. From Navy SEALs to musicians, these stories show how the best leaders think, serve, and grow. You’ll hear what separates good from great, how ego gets in the way, and what it really means to build culture — in clinics, companies, and teams.
Topics Covered:
Guest Links:
If you're a physical therapist, clinic owner, or healthcare leader looking for fresh mindset shifts, this Star Wars-inspired episode will hit you harder than a Wookiee hug. Jimmy and Dr. Rebecca Griffith break down seven iconic Star Wars quotes and translate them into practical leadership, mindset, and patient care strategies — all through a PT lens.
In this inspiring 10-year reunion episode, Ben Fung returns to reflect on the evolution of the PT profession — and what physical therapists and healthcare professionals MUST prioritize to thrive in 2025 and beyond. From wage literacy and career versatility to boardroom insights and the importance of work-life balance, this episode delivers clear, actionable advice for any PT looking to grow a rewarding career.
Topics Discussed:
Resources Mentioned:
In this episode, Dr. Rebekah Griffith (The EDDPT) dives into how physical therapists and healthcare professionals can leverage StrengthsFinder and Working Genius to fuel career growth, avoid burnout, and thrive in leadership roles. From understanding your genius zones to navigating interviews with confidence, Rebekah shares actionable insights for any PT ready to level up.
Resources and Links:
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Physical therapists — ever wonder how to get more referrals without begging for them? Dr. Jeremy Sutton cracked the code by launching a local podcast that tripled his patient volume. In this episode, he breaks down how he booked physician interviews, bypassed gatekeepers, and turned 13 of 17 leads into paying patients in a single month. This isn’t theory — it’s working right now in his Louisiana-based practice.
✅ Learn how to use podcasting as your new referral strategy
✅ Hear how he partners with concierge doctors for real results
✅ Explore the use of shockwave therapy and media to boost local trust
✅ Why "being everywhere locally" beats paid ads when done right
Dr. Jeremy Sutton
Instagram: @healthySBC
YouTube: HealthySBC
Nicole and Stephanie, aka The Note Ninjas, are an OT and PT duo teaching therapists how to cut documentation time without cutting corners. In this episode, they join Jimmy to talk about their personal breaking points, how they created a better way to document, and why creative treatment doesn’t have to come at the cost of defensibility or compliance.
They also preview their upcoming CEU-approved virtual summit, where therapists will walk away with actionable documentation strategies and treatment ideas that actually help real humans.
Physical therapists often shy away from clinic retail, fearing they’ll come off as "salesy." Paul Timko from Stop Pain Clinical joins us to explain why selling isn't sleazy — it's smart. Paul shares how smart retail strategies improve patient care, strengthen home exercise compliance, and even grow your clinic’s revenue. Plus, learn about his Clinic Retail Mastermind and how it’s helping PTs nationwide level up without selling out.
In This Episode:
Resources:
Connect with PT Pintcast:
What if Nike built a PT clinic? In this episode, we dive into real-world strategies physical therapists can steal right now to future-proof their businesses — from discreet fall recovery services to hybrid fitness models that compete with OrangeTheory and CrossFit. Learn how to position your clinic to capture the community, culture, and continuity that keeps patients AND members coming back.
Physical therapists: STOP focusing on new patients—until you fix THIS. In this episode, host Jimmy McKay sits down with Sturdy McKee (of 6hourceo.com) to talk about the real growth levers for PT clinics, why your front desk might be your biggest problem, and how marketing myths are costing you money.
Will Boyd is a physical therapist turned digital marketing pro who helps clinic owners, educators, and healthcare entrepreneurs run profitable ad campaigns that convert. In this episode, Will talks about why Facebook and Google ads still dominate, why location matters more than you think, and how to scale without burning out.
On this episode of PT Pintcast, we hit the road — literally — with Matt Jurek, a PT who’s turned his passion for travel and tech into a remote-first consulting business. From full-time RV living to building RTM programs for clinics nationwide, Matt walks us through the how, why, and what’s next in Remote Therapeutic Monitoring.
Rebekah Griffith (EDD, PT) joins Jimmy McKay for a real-world discussion on finding your strengths, avoiding career burnout, and leveraging your natural talents using The 6 Types of Working Genius framework. They share personal stories about hitting the "ceiling" in clinical roles, why leadership paths aren’t right for everyone, and how understanding your true workstyle can completely change your career trajectory.
Learn how to structure teams that energize rather than exhaust, why promotion ≠ success for everyone, and why accepting your Working Genius is the fastest path to career satisfaction.
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
