PSATS Podcast

In this episode, we explore the continuum of Control → Chaos → Complexity and how it shapes modern rehabilitation and performance in elite sport. From early-stage tissue loading and motor control strategies to the unpredictable realities of competition, we break down how athletic trainers can intentionally progress athletes through each phase to better prepare them for return to play. The conversa...

In this episode of the PSATS Podcast, Paul Lombardo sits down with Derek Lawrence, Assistant Athletic Trainer for the U.S. Men’s National Team, to explore what it takes to medically prepare for a World Cup. Derek shares a behind-the-scenes look at managing player arrivals from across the globe, conducting essential screenings, and implementing recovery and performance strategies in a high-stakes t...

In this episode, Scott and Paul challenge the idea that load is the primary problem in rehabilitation. Instead, they explore how sequencing, progression, and timing drive rehab success—especially for tendons and muscle injuries. From strength versus plyometrics to tendon loading, confidence, and return‑to‑play decisions, this conversation focuses on preparing athletes for real game demands rather...

In this episode, the hosts dive into key topics in sports medicine, starting with U.S.-Europe healthcare differences and why surgical options for soft tissue injuries aren’t always prioritized. They share personal updates and holiday plans before exploring unique throat injury case studies from a recent PSG conference, emphasizing the importance of thorough evaluations. The discussion then shifts...

In this episode, we dive into the ongoing challenge of work-life balance for athletic trainers. We discuss the unique demands of the profession — long hours, travel, and the constant pull between personal well-being and professional commitment. Our conversation highlights the struggles many ATs face in managing time, setting boundaries, and avoiding burnout. We also share practical strategies to b...

In this episode, Mitch, Eric, and Scott welcome Bryan to explore cutting-edge insights into hamstring injury research and rehabilitation. Bryan shares findings from a large-scale NFL-funded study, revealing why traditional rehab methods often fall short and how eccentric loading and early running can accelerate recovery. The conversation dives into athlete pain perception, diagnostic imaging, scia...

On this episode, we're joined by Seattle Sounders athletic trainer Scott Armistead, who fills in for Eric. Scott shares his journey and insights on translating complex sports medicine research into practical advice. We dive into the importance of career longevity in professional football, discussing a study on career lengths in the UK and how that data can be applied to player management. We...

Go behind the scenes of professional hockey with Thomas Alva, the Head of Performance and Health for the Philadelphia Flyers. In this episode, Thomas shares his incredible journey from the Dallas Stars to a 1,500-game veteran, giving a rare look into the world of elite athletic training. You’ll hear about the intensive strategies used to keep players healthy through a grueling 82-game season, from...

Join us as we talk to Sean Cropper, Head ATC at Atlanta United about his experience with three Achilles tendon ruptures in one season. We dive into the physical and mental toll of such a debilitating injury, and Sean shares his insights on why this might have happened and what warning signs to look for. In this episode, we'll cover the general timeline for Achilles rehabilitation, key milesto...

Join us as we celebrate the legacy of an outgoing MLS athletic trainer and dive into a Q&A session covering everything from podcasting to career advice for aspiring ATs. We'll equip you with essential tips for sports internship success, explore cutting-edge athletic training tools for performance and recovery, and discuss the future of GPS tracking and injury assessment. Plus, we touch on...

In this episode of the PSATS podcast, we discuss the critical topic of cardiac emergency response in sports. We start with a recent incident during an NWSL soccer match where Angel City's medical staff successfully responded to a player's cardiac emergency, stabilizing her after a heart procedure. We then explore emergency preparedness and cardiac screening protocols in Major League Socc...

In this episode, we explore the shift in football performance analysis away from traditional running metrics as key performance indicators. Drawing from the article “Time to Drop Running as a KPI in Football” by Mandorino et al., we discuss how total distance covered during matches often reflects tactical context rather than player readiness or fitness. The authors propose a Sport Science 3.0 appr...

Welcome to the PSATS Podcast! In this episode, we are thrilled to have Brett Holmertz join us. Brett is the Athletic Trainer and Strength & Conditioning Coach for the FC Cincinnati Academy, where he plays a crucial role in developing young soccer talent. With extensive experience working with the U-16 and U-18 academy groups, as well as the Super 20’s and PDL teams, Brett's dedication to...

Ever wondered if hamstring mapping can really predict RTP? Or if your athletes are truly ready for high-speed sprints post-injury? Join us as we break down two fascinating research articles, debating the pros and cons, sharing our own clinical experiences, and questioning the practical implications. We'll tackle inter-rater reliability, the fear of pushing athletes too hard, and the importanc...

Dive deep into the world of athletic training with our latest episode! We're recapping our recent symposium, from the buzz of a sold-out crowd and cutting-edge vendor show to the crucial discussions on ACL injury assessments, along with remarkable resilience from athletes. Get insights into Matt Taberner's evolving framework and congratulate LA Galaxy's recent MLS Cup victory. Join...

In this two part episode, we dive deep into the world of elite athlete care. Our guests, a team of highly skilled professionals, share their personal journeys, the intricacies of their collaborative approach, and the challenges and triumphs of working with the best athletes in the world. From managing communication with coaching staff to ensuring seamless player care during high-stakes tournaments...

In this two part episode, we dive deep into the world of elite athlete care. Our guests, a team of highly skilled professionals, share their personal journeys, the intricacies of their collaborative approach, and the challenges and triumphs of working with the best athletes in the world. From managing communication with coaching staff to ensuring seamless player care during high-stakes tournaments...

In this episode, we sit down with Kenta, last year’s recipient of the PSATS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Scholarship. This prestigious award provided him the opportunity to attend the MLS Medical Symposium in December 2023. Kenta shares more about his life and the experiences that shaped him. Discover what or who inspired Kenta to move to Kentucky to pursue a career in athletic training. Hear...

On this episode of the PSATS Podcast, our special guest Mauricio Elizondo, the Director of Sports Medicine at Austin FC. With an impressive career spanning nearly 14 years in Major League Baseball with the Boston Red Sox, LA Dodgers, and Toronto Blue Jays, as well as almost 6 years in ATP Tennis, our guest brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. He also owned and operated a high-...

In this episode of “Going Global,” we spotlight two PSAT members, Sergio Martin Acuna and Andres Calleja Blanco. Join us as we delve into their inspiring journeys and explore how they have made a significant impact with their respected teams and profession. Sergio and Andres share their experiences of working with athletes across different countries and cultures, highlighting the unique challenges...

In this episode, the group tackles a controversial topic; heat vs ice and give their recommendations and personal opinions around the two therapy strategies. The complex nature of injury recovery and training have various approaches but the group discusses an array of strategies to help player recovery from injury or recovery from activity. We are excited to have this podcast driven by listener en...

In this episode of the PSATS Podcast, the group sits down with Kelly Turney. We recorded this episode in 2023, though we are publishing this episode now. There are some great take-aways from this interview. Kelly shares with us her journey from the collegiate setting to the professional level. She shares her trials and tribulations of starting a new job from day one, at a new level and what lesson...

In this episode, the group sits down with the “God Father” of MLS athletic trainers. Brian Goodstein or better known as “Goody”. Goody is one of the founding members of PSATS and the longest standing tenure with one club, D.C. United, 20 years. Brian has had an extensive career around soccer and was willing to sit down with the group to share his experiences that soccer has provided him on and off...

In this episode, the group discusses the use of the Control-Chaos Continuum (CCC). Today, the group focuses on the work of Matt Taberner and colleagues in the application of the CCC for return to performance/sport. We talk about how we utilize the CCC in our settings along with our general thoughts and application to short- or long-term injuries. The discussion may have some tangents but in all a...

In this episode, the group interviews the newly elected PSATS president; Ron Shinault.  Ron is starting his second stint as PSATS president and the group gets to know how Ron started his journey in Athletic Training to his current role of Director of Health and Performance with San Jose Earthquakes. Ron also shares some of his experiences being in a role of leadership and how that previous positio...