Why Communication Is the Real Superpower in Manual Therapy

John Seivert, PT, a clinician with more than 40 years of experience blending skilled orthopedic manual therapy with the art of Motivational Interviewing.Fresh off his conference breakout sessions — Touch, Talk, and Transform — John breaks down what holistic OMPT looks like today, why communication is the foundation of effective care, and how accurate empathy changes outcomes.We explore:The current state of OMPT and where the field is headingWhy “How good are you at listening?” might be the most important question in therapyHow MI empowers patients to make meaningful changeWhat John has learned from four decades of treating, teaching, and bike racingHis reflections on retirement, mentorship, and legacyIf you’re a clinician, student, educator, or anyone who cares about whole-person care, this is a conversation that will sharpen your skills — and your humanity.0:00 – Intro0:27 – Who Is John Seivert?1:35 – Touch, Talk & Transform: The Masterclass4:22 – The Current State of OMPT7:50 – Why It All Starts With Communication11:10 – How to Actually Listen in a Clinical Encounter14:40 – Motivational Interviewing in Orthopedic Practice18:55 – Role Modeling Listening for Patients & Learners22:30 – What 40 Years of OMPT Has Taught John26:15 – Bike Racing at 65: Lessons for Clinicians30:02 – Preparing for Retirement & Passing the Torch33:10 – Final Thoughts & Advice for New Clinicians???? Guest: John Seivert, PTFaculty at Kaiser Permanente Fellowship Program, EIM Weekend Intensive Faculty, MINT Trainer