The Physio Diaries

It’s finally time to clock back into the Break Room for a long-overdue life update!! Mel and Al catch up on six weeks of travel PT chaos: think NYE sickness, flu-level setbacks, new contracts, weddings in Mexico, ski trips, and debating extensions in Savannah and Sacramento. They also answer your questions about making friends on the road, defining a tax home, and trusting your own career path (ev...

In  episode 69, we bring on travel tax expert Nermina Culesker CPA to finally make sense of the tax chaos that comes with traveling healthcare jobs. We break down big, scary topics like multi-state taxes, tax homes, stipends, and audits into clear, real-life advice travelers can actually use. Nermina spills the biggest tax mistakes travelers make, what rules are changing in 2026, and how to protec...

YOU HAVE OFFICIALLY ENTERED THE BREAK ROOM. In episode 68, Al and Mel recap a huge podcast year packed with weekly episodes, 22 amazing guests, favorite episodes, and some major personal wins: from cross-country contracts and Europe trips to new certifications and business moves. We reflect on last year’s goals (some crushed, some still loading), share New Year’s Eve plans, and get real about the...

In episode  67,  Mel & Al chat with Matt Huey, PT, MPT, Dip MDT, CCI, CMTPT, FAAOMPT one of TikTok’s favorite physical therapists and king of painfully accurate clinic humor. We get to know Matt’s journey into physical therapy, the biggest changes he’s seen in the profession, and how the McKenzie Method shaped his approach to care. He breaks down why old school treatments like e-stim and heat...

In  episode 66, we break down everything your professors/clinicians AREN’T telling you about travel healthcare. We dive into the difference between internal vs. external travel, how to scout and choose staffing agencies, and what to look for when it comes to mentorship, CEUs, and benefits. We also talk about the travel lifestyle, including minimalism, being open to change, and staying organized wi...

In episode 65, Mel and Al sit down with the amazing Jimmy Choi, who shares how he turned a Parkinson’s diagnosis into one of the most powerful comeback stories you have ever heard. He talks about his early symptoms, the fear of being told he’d be in a wheelchair by 45, and the moment he decided to completely rewrite his future. Jimmy walks us through how small habits, community, and yes hundreds o...

In episode 64, Mel & Al  dive into the world of wellness trends to figure out what’s legit and what’s just flashy marketing. We break down vibration plates, coconut probiotic yogurt, posture correcting bras, and long distance races/training. We absolutely love to keep up with all the wellness trends, making these episodes quarterly because the wellness world is ever-changing and sometimes it j...

YOU HAVE OFFICIALLY ENTERED THE BREAK ROOM. This episode is giving pure chaotic catch up energy as Mel questions her entire approach to adulthood and Al prepares for yet another move. Mel spills on turning 28, entering her MILF-car era, and whether mac and cheese belongs on a Thanksgiving spread. Al chats about wrapping up her Monterey contract and starts plotting a snowy escape to Lake Tahoe with...

In episode 62, Mel & Al dive into the world of fertility with Dr. Sasha Hackman MD, who breaks down the biggest myths and misconceptions people still believe. We chat about what really affects egg and sperm health, from lifestyle habits to environmental factors. Dr. Hackman walks us through fertility options like IVF, IUI, and egg freezing: what they are, who they’re for, and what some people...

In episode 61 of The Physio Diaries Podcast,  we asked you guys to share your wildest healthcare experiences. From mystery cords (that definitely weren’t supposed to be pulled out) to a literal deer flying through a windshield, this one had us gasping, cringing, and crying-laughing all at once. We’re talking explosions, missing bones, and a patient who describes pain in color . Buckle up for the m...

In episode 60, Mel and Al sit down with Dr. Kyle Covington PT, DPT, PhD, and the PRESIDENT of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), who shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm to leading the APTA. In this episode, Kyle reveals the exciting future of the PT world, including the new primary care speciality and strategic plans for better reimbursement.  Tune in and get the insi...

Welcome to the Break Room, where Mel and Al, your favorite travel physical therapists, spill some tea about their whereabouts, travels, and their deepest darkest secrets (jk… sign up for the newsletter for those). In this episode, they gossip about Scorpio season, chat about Al’s birthday surprise, and discuss the joys and jitters of turning 30. From birthday mishaps to dreamy spa days, it's a...

In this fun and unfiltered episode of TPDP, Mel and Al spill their top 10 lessons from two and a half years on the road as travel healthcare pros! From wild contract surprises to moments of burnout and everything in between, they’re sharing the real deal on what it’s like to live that traveler life. You can expect laughs, honest advice, and plenty of “been there” stories about money, mindset, and...

In episode 57, Mel & Al ~BRUSH UP~ on all things dental with this week’s special guest, Britt Glauz BSDH, RDH: a registered dental hygienist! We’re chatting about everything from flossing secrets and fluoride controversies to the future of saliva testing and oral hygiene. Britt spills what it’s really like to work as a dental hygienist, plus her tips for keeping your smile fresh and healthy. W...

Life is crazy so we are re-releasing our episode about what life is REALY like as a travel Physical Therapist. Prepare for brutal honesty, pros/cons, and the realities of travel healthcare. If you are interested in becoming a travel healthcare worker and you are serious about it, book a 1:1 call with us! We want to help you transition as smoothly as possible and get the BEST contract $$$. Fill out...

YOU HAVE ENTERED THE BREAK ROOM. This week Al and Mel are back and catching up on all the chaos!! Al spills all the dreamy details about her month off in Spain and France: think two gorgeous weddings, endless rosé, and the cutest little towns in the South of France. Meanwhile, Mel’s in her boss babe era with new rental property adventures, exciting travel plans, and the launch of her Walk Club in...

In episode 54 of TPD, Mel & Al we sit down with the ONE and ONLY Dr. Dan, a renowned Physical Therapist and former D1 baseball player. Dr. Dan shares his journey from sports injuries to becoming a clinical director in a thriving New York City practice. He discusses the challenges and rewards of the physical therapy profession, almost leaving the profession, his salaries as a DPT, and the impac...

Pop the bubbly, babes! It's our one year anniversary on the Physio Diaries Podcast! Join us as we spill all the tea on a year full of laughs, lessons, and a WHOLE lot of girl talk. From our fave travel stories to the most jaw-dropping guest moments, we're taking a trip down memory lane. Whether you're a day-one listener or just joining the party, this episode is all about celebrating Y...

 In episode 52, Mel and Al chat with Dr. Bisleen Attli ND about Naturopathic medicine,  brain health, struggling with mental health, and nervous system regulation. She shares why she chose the holistic route, what her BrainMAX method is all about (think: total brain glow-up), and how she helps high-achievers who look put together on the outside but feel totally overwhelmed inside. This episode is...

In  episode 51 , Al and Mel dive into some seriously wild travel stories sent in by you guys: from chaotic clinic experiences to Bali disasters, lost luggage in Portugal, and one very memorable flight involving edibles. They also spill their own travel fails, including tight connections, surprise layovers, and unexpected kindness from strangers. It’s a mix of hilarious, heartwarming, and totally r...

In episode 50, Mel and Al chat with Lillian Zhang, a financial educator and content creator, who shares her insights on financial literacy for young professionals. We talk all things  personal cash flow, credit card scores, investing, and setting financial goals. She gives practical advice on credit card management, investment strategies, and the importance of starting retirement accounts early on...

YOU HAVE OFFICIALLY ENTERED THE BREAK ROOM.  Mel and Al share their life updates. Mel opens up about her housing scam in Savannah, breaking her lease after 3 days, third wheeling more couples on vacation, and her Miami/Bahamas travel stories. While Al navigates the chaos of Monterey's Car Week, surrounded by luxury million dollar cars and high-speed antics. Tune in for a glimpse into the reali...

In episode 48 of The Physio Diaries Podcast, Mel and Al dive in to the topic of concussions. They clear up common myths and share the real science behind concussions. They talk about what actually happens during a concussion, the symptoms to look out for, and what can affect how someone recovers. They also highlight the importance of proper care, nutrition, sleep, and stress management, plus how c...

In  episode 47 of The Physio Diaries Podcast, Mel and Al chat with Kyra Hungerford RDN, a passionate sports dietitian who's all about helping active women fuel up without the fuss. Kyra opens up about her personal journey to becoming a dietitian, busts some myths about carbs and protein, and gets real about the carnivore diet. Whether you're a gym rat or just trying to eat better, this epi...

SUPRISE!!! This week we’re switching things up. Mel & Al are taking you behind the scenes with their very first VLOG episode! From the adventures of Seattle, to Chicago, to the chaos of Miami, we’re bringing you along for every laugh, hike, guest episode, and lychee martini run.  Grab your iced latte, matcha, or martinis and come adventure with us! Watch now on Spotify and Youtube!  WATCH YOUT...