Pursuit PT Podcast

In Episode 18 of the Pursuit PT Podcast, we dive into the essentials of PT school clinical rotations—what to expect, how to prepare, and key tips for setting yourself up for success while in PT school.

Applying to physical therapy school can feel overwhelming—but we’re breaking it down for you. In this episode, Austyn and Billy reveal the top 3 ways to stand out as a PT school applicant: Diverse Clinical Experiences, Academic Success, and Well-Rounded Application. Whether you're just starting your pre-PT journey or finalizing your application, this episode is packed with tips to strengthen your path toward becoming a physical therapist.

In this solo episode of the Pursuit PT Podcast, Austyn takes the mic to share a heartfelt message to her first-year self—now speaking with the clarity and hindsight of a third-year DPT student. From letting go of the pressure to chase perfect grades, to embracing vulnerability and connection, this episode dives into five powerful lessons learned along the way.Austyn reflects on the importance of clinical application over academic perfection, the value of asking questions (even the awkward ones), and finding balance between school, family, and social life. She also opens up about the growth that comes from moving to a new city and pushing past your comfort zone—and why working a part-time job is doable (and sometimes necessary).Whether you're just beginning your DPT program or deep in the trenches, this is a must-listen reminder that growth doesn’t come from doing it all perfectly—it comes from doing it authentically. Tune in, take a breath, and know you’re not alone in the pursuit.

In this episode of the Pursuit PT Podcast, we’re wrapping up the summer semester with a candid look at the highs, lows, and lessons learned. From clinical experiences to coursework challenges, we’re breaking it all down. But we’re also tackling something every PT student faces: burnout. We dive into the signs of burnout, how it shows up in PT school, and share practical tips for managing stress, maintaining balance, and staying motivated through the grind. Whether you're just starting your DPT journey or pushing through the final semesters, this one's for you. Tune in and remember—you’re not alone in the pursuit.

In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison sit down with Loren Strickland, a safety for the Detroit Lions who forged an unconventional path to the NFL. Starting his college career at the University of Indianapolis before transferring to Ball State, Loren talks about his journey through Division II and Division I football, and what it took to earn a coveted spot on the Lions’ 53-man roster. He shares the challenges of transitioning between programs, the mental and physical grind of chasing the league, and the moments that fueled his belief along the way. Tune in for a powerful conversation about resilience, discipline, and the drive to make your mark at the highest level of the game.

In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison sit down with Dr. Kenneth Miller, PT, DPT, GCS — a board-certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist and a passionate advocate for advancing care for older adults. Dr. Miller shares his journey into geriatric physical therapy, the unique challenges and rewards of working with aging populations, and the experiences that have shaped his career. Fresh off his return from the World Physiotherapy Congress in Tokyo, he also reflects on key takeaways from the global event, emerging trends in geriatric care, and the importance of international collaboration in the physical therapy profession. Join us for a thoughtful and energizing conversation about the evolving world of physical therapy.

In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison sit down with Franky West and Landry Mavungu — two rising stars in the Indoor Football League (IFL) — to hear their unique journeys to professional football. From overcoming setbacks to seizing unexpected opportunities, Franky and Landry share the grit, determination, and passion that fueled their paths to the pro level. They also offer an inside look at life in the IFL, what it's like competing on the field, and how the league is shaping the future of football. Join us for a compelling conversation about resilience, ambition, and the road to the pros.

Join co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison as they sit down with Dr. Sara Virella Kraft, PT, DPT, NCS, the Medical University of South Carolina's Residential DPT Program Director. In this episode, she talks about what it takes to lead a DPT program, the evolution of PT, and the future of the field of Physical Therapy.

In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison sit down with Dr. Cindy Dodds, PT, DPT, PCS — a distinguished professor in the Physical Therapy program and the Director of the Pediatric Residency at the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Dodds shares her inspiring journey to MUSC and the passion that led her to specialize in pediatric physical therapy. She also opens up about her involvement in global health missions and the impact of her work around the world. Join us for an insightful conversation exploring the field of pediatric physical therapy.

In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison are joined by their fellow classmates, Abby Parsons, Ashlyn Bayadi, and Chloe Boroff, 3 students in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the Medical University of South Carolina. They share about their paths to physical therapy school, including the challenges they overcame and the motivations that drove them to pursue this rewarding career. They open up about their experiences in the DPT program, from the rigorous coursework to the hands-on clinical rotations, and the supportive community that has made the journey even more meaningful. Tune in for a candid conversation about their goals and ambitions in the world of Physical Therapy.

In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison are joined by their fellow classmate, Byron Wilson, a student in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the Medical University of South Carolina. Byron shares his path to physical therapy school, including the challenges he overcame and the motivations that drove him to pursue this rewarding career. He opens up about his experiences in the DPT program, from the rigorous coursework to the hands-on clinical rotations, and the supportive community that has made the journey even more meaningful. Tune in for a candid conversation about the dedication, passion, and resilience it takes to succeed in physical therapy school and on the Intramural Basketball Court!

In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison sit down with Cody Baer, a professional basketball player who made the leap from Eureka College in Illinois to playing in Europe. Cody talks about his transition from NCAA basketball to the competitive world of international hoops, sharing the challenges he faced along the way and the lessons he's learned on and off the court. Now playing in Georgia, he offers insights into the unique basketball culture in Europe and how his time at Eureka College helped shape his career. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, adaptability, and the journey of taking your game to the global stage!

In this episode, hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students at the Medical University of South Carolina, sit down with fellow DPT student Steven Showers from Bowling Green State University. Steven is currently navigating the challenges of a hybrid and accelerated PT program, and he shares his unique experience of balancing intensive coursework with hands-on clinical practice. The hosts dive into the specifics of the hybrid learning model, how it has shaped Steven's approach to physical therapy, and the personal insights he's gained along the way. They discuss the benefits and hurdles of an accelerated program and how it's preparing Steven for his future career in patient care. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the world of physical therapy education and the journey of becoming a skilled clinician in today’s fast-evolving field!

In this episode, hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison reflect on their recent achievement of earning their Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification. They discuss the journey of preparing for and passing the exam, highlighting the knowledge and skills they gained along the way. The hosts dive into the significance of the CSCS credential in the field of strength and conditioning, and how it enhances their ability to work with athletes and clients. They also share personal insights into the challenges and rewards of studying for the certification, and how the process has deepened their understanding of exercise science. Join them as they celebrate this milestone and discuss how it will shape their future careers in fitness and performance training!

In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison, both Doctor of Physical Therapy students at the Medical University of South Carolina, welcome their classmate Be Smith to the podcast. Ben shares his inspiring journey to physical therapy school, revealing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. He discusses what motivated him to pursue a career in physical therapy and how his experiences have shaped his perspective on the profession. The trio dives into the unique aspects of the DPT program at MUSC, including the supportive community, hands-on learning opportunities, and the rigorous coursework. Tune in for an insightful conversation about resilience, camaraderie, and the passion that drives future physical therapists!

In this episode, hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison reflect on their recent experiences in Clinical Practicum 1. They dive into how they transitioned from classroom theory to real-world practice, discussing the challenges and rewards of working with actual patients. They share memorable patient interactions as well as challenges that tested their skills. Together, they explore how these hands-on experiences have deepened their understanding of physical therapy and prepared them for future challenges. Join them as they recount their first steps into the field and the valuable lessons learned along the way!

In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison, both Doctor of Physical Therapy students at the Medical University of South Carolina, welcome their classmate Jake Moran to the podcast. Jake shares his inspiring journey to physical therapy school, revealing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. He discusses what motivated him to pursue a career in physical therapy and how his experiences have shaped his perspective on the profession. The trio dives into the unique aspects of the DPT program at MUSC, including the supportive community, hands-on learning opportunities, and the rigorous coursework. Tune in for an insightful conversation about resilience, camaraderie, and the passion that drives future physical therapists!

Welcome to the Pursuit PT Podcast, hosted by two DPT students from the Medical University of South Carolina! Join us as we explore the ins and outs of the physical therapy journey. From application tips for prospective students to the challenges and triumphs of DPT school, we cover it all. Each episode features insightful discussions, expert interviews, and personal stories that illuminate the path to becoming a physical therapist. Whether you’re just starting your journey or deep into your studies, our podcast is your go-to resource for everything related to physical therapy. Tune in and let’s pursue this passion together!