The Recovery Room

Routine builds habits. Rapport builds trust. Which are you leading with? Tune in to our newest episode as we discuss the importance of putting people before protocols and prioritizing rapport over routine From practical clinical tips to language that builds connection, we’ll discuss strategies for making rehab plans collaborative, accessible, and empowering. We’ll also explore how cultural backgro...

Balancing ambition with romance isn’t always easy—but it’s worth the conversation. In this episode, we dive into the realities of navigating relationships as ambitious women. While men often think money is the dealbreaker, we unpack why women value loyalty, trust, and consistency even more. From setting standards and protecting your peace, to understanding love languages, we’ll explore how to crea...

When we think of fitness, we often picture toughness, sweat, and grit, but what if strength and softness can exist together? In this episode, we explore how different types of movement—strength training, pilates, yoga, barre, cycling, kickboxing, and Zumba—each offer a unique balance of power, grace, and joy. From lifting heavy to flowing through yoga poses to dancing like no one’s watching, fitne...

Student loans: the uninvited guest that follows you long after graduation. In this episode, we break down what repayment can look like without all the financial jargon. We talk about your options (SAVE, IBR, RAP, and more), what life really looks like while paying them back, and tips for making your payments manageable. Plus, we highlight resources and tools to help you take control of your loans,...

This week we’re chopping it up with Andrea Durham, powerhouse founder of Minority Women in Sports. From the highs and lows of running a nonprofit to keeping your passion lit and finding joy in the long game , Andrea keeps it real about what it takes to chase purpose. If you’ve ever been on a journey that stretched your patience but grew your passion… this convo is for YOU.

You don’t need to be fearless to move forward—you just need to be willing. This week’s episode of  Real Talk  is all about doing it scared: starting the thing, speaking up, making the move, even when your voice shakes. Fear doesn’t mean you’re not ready. It means you’re stepping into something that matters. We’re unpacking imposter syndrome, fear of failure, and the pressure to have it all figured...

In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, former NFL athletic trainer Marissa Figueroa shares her journey of stepping away from the career she once thought defined her. After years of pouring everything into her profession, Marissa reached a pivotal moment where the pressure no longer aligned with her purpose. We dive into the emotional and mental toll of burnout, how she found the courage...

On this episode of Real Talk, we sit down with Margaret Pittman, PT, DPT, MBA, Director of Clinical Excellence, mom, and advocate for care on her terms. Margaret shares her journey into the cash-based model, why she stepped away from insurance, and how it's created more flexibility for her as both a clinician and a mother. From leadership in sports medicine to life outside the clinic, we get i...

Sweat smart, not sorry! We’re talking heat illness—how to spot it, prevent it, and act fast. Featuring a guest and former Korey Stringer Institute team member, Amir Defino. Tune in to learn about what heat illnesses are and how to protect ourselves while being active in the heat.

🚩Red flags aren't just for dating—they show up at work, in friendships, and even with yourself. Let's talk about it.

It’s summer, and we’re doing  everythinggg ! Whether you're outside from sun-up to sundown or keeping it cute indoors with your favorite snacks — this episode is packed with ideas to make your summer unforgettable. We’re talking concerts (hi Monica, Brandy , The Weekend, Beyoncé 👀), solo travel, spa days, rooftop dates, wine nights, beach hangs, cookouts, thrift runs, and everything in between. N...

Achilles issues are taking out NBA stars left and right. Is it the game, the build, or the training? Achilles injuries are quietly becoming one of the biggest threats in professional basketball — and it’s not just aging vets anymore. From Damian Lillard sitting out with lingering soreness, to Jayson Tatum managing tightness, to Tyrese Haliburton battling through discomfort during the playoffs, Ach...

Ever feel like everyone around you is leveling up while you're stuck on pause? In this raw and reflective episode of  Real Talk , we’re getting into the silent struggle of  comparison culture —especially for young Black women chasing success, healing, and wholeness all at once. We’re unpacking: Why your timeline doesn’t define your worth How social media fuels self-doubt and burnout The unique pre...

Thinking about a career in sports medicine, athletic training, or physical therapy? In this episode, we break down practical, actionable steps to help you break into the field—especially if you're a student or professional from an underrepresented background. From choosing the right major and internships to navigating certification and building your network, we cover what  really  matters (and...

This episode is a raw, heartfelt exploration of what it really looks like to be a high-achieving woman—especially a Black woman—navigating the expectations to  have it all ,  do it all , and  never mess up . We talk about the constant pressure to be polished, productive, and prepared, even when you’re running on fumes. From chronic exhaustion that sleep can’t fix to the emotional labor of holding...

In this episode, we’re getting real about the unspoken balancing act many minority professionals face every day—navigating the fine line between authenticity and professionalism in clinical spaces, hospitals, and out on the field. From the pressure of interview prep to daily decisions about hair, voice, clothing, and even makeup, we unpack how identity and culture intersect with expectations in he...

In this episode, we’re diving into the importance of representation among faculty in physical therapy education with two incredible guests—Darice Upchurch and Chante Pettiford, soon-to-be DPT graduates from Duke University . As Black women navigating a predominantly white profession and academic environment, Darice and Chante open up about their journeys through PT school—sharing standout moments,...

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Jaiden Harvey, PT, DPT, a pelvic floor physical therapist who helps guide us through the important changes pregnancy and childbirth bring to the pelvic floor. Dr. Harvey explains how expecting mothers can support their pelvic health during pregnancy, the role of pelvic floor therapy in preparing for labor and delivery, and the steps to safely return to exercise...

In this kickoff episode, we're diving deep into the world of pelvic floor physical therapy with a licensed pelvic floor therapist Dr. Jaiden Harvey PT, DPT. Whether you've heard of pelvic floor therapy before or this is your first time, this conversation is for you. We discuss the most common conditions treated by pelvic floor PTs—think incontinence, pelvic pain, prolapse, and more—and how these i...

In the world of sports rehab, athletic trainers (ATs) and physical therapists (PTs) both play critical roles in helping athletes recover and return to peak performance. But with overlapping responsibilities, how can these professionals work together without stepping on each other’s toes? In this episode, we break down the key differences between ATs and PTs, the importance of collaboration, and st...

ACL injuries are on the rise in women’s sports, with stars like Paige Bueckers and Juju Watkins sidelined by these devastating setbacks. But why are female athletes at higher risk? In this episode of Real Talk , we break down the anatomical, hormonal, and biomechanical factors behind ACL tears, the impact of the Female Athlete Triad, and the lack of research on women’s injuries. We also explore pr...

In this episode, we sit down with Kenya Downey, an acupuncture student with a passion for sports medicine. Kenya shares her journey into the world of acupuncture, from what first sparked her interest to how she chose the right school to align with her goal of working with athletes. We explore the impact she hopes to make in the sports world, the best candidates for acupuncture, and the types of co...

**Breaking Barriers: Trailblazing Women in Athletic Training** Athletic training was once a “men’s club,” but trailblazing women have shattered that perception. In this episode, we highlight pioneers who paved the way for future generations. From Kaye Cosby, the first female certified AT in NATA (1972), to Sue Falsone, the first female head AT in pro sports with the Dodgers, these women redefined...

Trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle while juggling a busy career? We’ve got you covered! In this episode, we break down practical ways to incorporate fitness and wellness into your schedule without feeling overwhelmed. We’ll help you define your goals—whether it’s building healthy habits, improving fitness, or making small lifestyle changes—and choose activities that work for YOU. We’ll also ta...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Alice Barnes, PT, DPT, SCS, a former D1 lacrosse athlete at Michigan who transformed her experience on the field into a thriving career in sports physical therapy. Dr. Barnes is the CEO of The Performance Shift , a clinic designed to bridge the gap between rehab and performance. She shares her journey from athlete to clinician, revealing how her collegiate exp...