Finding Small Wins

Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by Darrius Barnes, a retired professional soccer player who shares insides on training, sport science, and rehab during his time as a player. He also discusses his current role as  President of MLS NEXT Pro at Charlotte FC. 

Key Takeaways:

[2:09] Where did the journey start for Darrius?

[4:35] How did the league change in the last decade?

[6:55] Where is MLS as far as rankings?

[10:03]  How do Darrius’ efforts in investment in engagement impact the culture of the team?

[12:08] What is MLS NEXT?

[12:46] Darrius introduces  MLS Next Pro.

[14:56] Is MLS Next Pro a precursor to being a franchise in MLS? 

[15:59] What does it mean for Darrius to be a General Manager at Charlotte FC?

[17:30] Are there lessons that Darrius learned being a player that have dramatically influenced his ability to do what he is doing now on the front office side?

[19:55] A player needs to know some context before making an appearance to assure that his thoughts, values, and beliefs are aligned with the brand.

[22:18] How did Darrius manage to stay positive during tough times?

[23:44] What helped Darrius during training and rehab?

[25:17] Darrius defines small wins.

[27:12] What is Darrius' perspective on sports science and analytics?

[29:06]  Some players can be worried regarding how collected data can affect the negotiations for a future contract, Darrius share his view about this topic.

[30:13] Darrius talks about technology that has proven to be beneficial for players.

[32:03] How can we find balance between training, collecting data, and implementing technology?

[34:34] Darrius confesses he had not enough information back in his professional athlete days.

[36:55] Darrius advises the general public who aims to upgrade their health and performance.

[39:01] How can we better support players?

[41:48] What was one of Darrius most favorite memorable moments being a pro athlete, playing in sports?

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about Finding Small Wins

Follow  Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!

Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by Maggie Awad. Maggie is a nurse practitioner experienced in professional sports, explaining the connection between gut health and sports performance.

Key Takeaways:

[1:40] Maggie shares how she became interested in gut health and how she included it in her practice.

[4:41] Three questions you should ask when there is an injured athlete.

[6:00] Why does Maggie find so much value in caring for gut health?

[8:31] Maggie shares what she looks at when diagnosing someone’s gut health.

[9:48] What does Maggie do first when she finds a nutritional deficiency in a patient?

[11:45] You could be eating too many fermented foods; Maggie confesses she is not a Kombucha fan.

[12:42] Maggie explains why people take too many probiotics.

[14:23] Maggie shares perspective on antibiotics.

[15:40] What is the difference between food sensitivity and food allergy?

[19:03] Achieving the optimal sleep schedule can be challenging for a professional athlete.

[22:09] What are the essential nutrients necessary for good bone health? 

[23:31] Maggie shares a pro athlete's expected Vitamin D levels.

[24:15] What is the relation between vitamin K and vitamin D?

[24:42] What is the role of the two types of magnesium?

[26:26] Iron levels are very important for bone health.

[28:07] What are the recommended key nutrients and supplementation for the treatment of  bone stress reaction?

[32:44] Why do some athletes swell more than others from the gut health perspective?

[36:01] The brain-gut access

[37:41] What can an athlete do to fight swelling? First, eliminate sugars and alcohol.

[40:18] Why is acute inflammation necessary for healing?

[41:20] Maggie is a fan of omega 3.

[43:36] What is the influence that alcohol has on the gut?

[44:50] Maggie shares her perspective on caffeine and its link to gut health.

[49:08] Maggie speaks of the benefits of having a stool test.

[51:04] How does Maggie help her client find their small wins through treatment?

[53:42] How does Maggie define a small win?

[55:55] Rapid fire questions with Maggie to know more about your gut health: How many times a day do you poop? Are you drinking enough water? Eating enough fiber? 

Must have: Prebiotic foods, garlic, onions, apples, asparagus, yogurt, and kefir. 

The worst foods: sugar, fruit juices, alcohol

The worst modern-day myth: Gut health is all about food (not at all! It is a lifestyle!)

What can parents do? Don’t buy fruit juice! Try to get fun with food.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about Finding Small Wins

Follow Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Follow Maggie Awad on Instagram

Elevate2Perform

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!

Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by Ben Hagar in today’s episode. Ben is a physical therapist in Major League Baseball, who shares stories and professional insight on what it takes to develop a strong culture for medical and performance staff.

Key Takeaways:

[1:55] Ben answers rapid-fire questions.

[4:10] Ben describes a day in professional baseball for a PT.

[9:58] Ben highlights the importance of teamwork: “You always know somebody else will have your back.”

[12:14] Ben explains his work beyond pitching and hitting.

[19:56] Clinicians want to find things to fix, but it is necessary to remember that there is no ideal movement; performance is what matters most.

[24:22] Sometimes, doing PT’s job is doing nothing.

[26:24] Treat the brain, not just the injury.

[26:58] Ben talks about some clinicians’ common mistakes.

[31:54]  Ben explains why Pt’s don’t need to have all the answers anymore.

[34:50] How does Ben deal with the social media comments?

[38:50] Ben shares how his work is affected by an athlete seeking outside medical assistance.

[45:05] Ben shares one key experience with his group that helped them move toward better team dynamics.

[52:02] The Team values more than the sum of its parts.

[55:58] Ben talks about how he deals with judgment.

[1:01:04] How does Ben find the small wins to keep him going?

[1:07:08] In the context of baseball, how do athletes endure rehab times?

[1:09:30] Ben shares a superstitious story.

[1:12:12] Ben advises anyone wanting to practice physical therapy in pro sports.

[1:17:15] Ben shares his perspective on  health and performance

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about Finding Small Wins

Follow  Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!

Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by Nicole Surdyka, who shares her experiences as a physical therapist and professional woman soccer during the 2020 pandemic season and how she was able to overcome limited resources while still finding success. 

Key Takeaways:

[:45] Adam introduces Nicole by sharing a briefing on her outstanding career.

[1:48] Nicole shares her experience as a soccer player.

[3:04] What motivated Nicole to become a PT?

[4:43] Nicole speaks of the common challenge of having limited resources.

[6:07] Nicole was initially worried about entering the professional women's soccer niche.

[8:23] What was Nicole’s role at Seattle?

[11:04] Nicole shares the memory of a day when the Team was left with no transportation.  

[13:00] Another responsibility included in Nicole’s role was to order the gym equipment.

[14:44] Nicole talks about how it is possible to go pro without going to college, even though it is not the norm.

[15:37] What were the first things Nicole did in her role?

[18:50] Were there things Nicole wishes she could have done better?

[21:04] How do you transition the high-level care the men are getting and provide it for the woman?

[23:11] Were there times when Nicole had information about a player that the player did not know yet?

[27:43] As a PT, ask yourself:  What does the athlete need from me now?

[30:43] Transfer vs. loan.

[34:45] What if the league had standards for every Team to follow for medical or PT evaluations?

[36:45] Nicole talks about what she thinks the minimum requirements for medical or PT evaluations should be.

[43:10] What happens when the PT disagrees with the athlete's perspective?

[45:21] How can a PT meet the athlete where he/she is?

[47:16] Nicole advises PTs to show authentic appreciation for the athletes (they can tell when the attention is not genuine).

[49:15] Nicole is constantly helping her athletes to find their small wins.

[50:56] Nicole shares her biggest mantra: Calm, consistent, curious.

[55:17] Apart from being good at your work, you must be flexible and adaptable.

[57:14] As a clinician, what were some of the expectations she had that did not match with reality?

[59:40] Nicole talks about handling pressure when an athlete is rushed to play back when is not totally ready.

[1:07:17] Nicole speaks on what is new and exciting in her career. 

[1:12:44] Rapid fire questions with Nicole.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more at FindingSmallWins.com

Follow  Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Women in Sports and Entertainment

Women in Football

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!

“If we can remove our egos and understand that at the end of the day, the team is trying to win, the team is trying to make sure everyone is healthy, and the team is trying to make sure everyone can participate, this way we can all get along. “ Dr. Amy Atmore

Description: Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by  Dr. Amy Atmore, who shares her experiences as a performance physical therapist from the NBA and NFL to help us figure out what to do when receiving differing advice from private specialists and the Team Staff. 

Dr. Amy’s experiences working on both sides of the team's sports medicine staff and the athlete's personal performance team can help us learn how to manage the modern-day athlete better.

Key Takeaways:

[1:42] Dr. Amy talks about her role right now.

[2:20] How was her transition from Seattle to Denver?

[2:48] Dr. Amy describes a typical day for her.

[4:30] Dr. Amy talks about the differences between working on the Team Staff and as a private specialist. 

[5:50] How many hours does Dr. Amy spend with her client?

[6:30] Dr. Amy talks about the Team working for her athlete.

[8:06] Dr. Amy speaks of the times when the private and sports Teams differ in their perspectives and/or expectations.

[10:13] Is Dr. Amy, the point person for the team? Or is there another individual who has the final say?

[12:00] What does the integration between the performance team of the athlete and the sports team look like?

[13:52] What has Dr. Amy found to be successful for managing the relationship to help the athlete work with his team but then work with the sports team too?

[17:26] Dr. Amy highlights what she is looking for when an athlete returns to play. She shares what she believes may be successful when managing her expectations of the athlete and the team's expectations from the return to play.

[20:00] How does Dr. Amy balance when the athlete tells her he wants to do something-

but in her mind, it either goes against what she believes in or it goes against what she thinks is 

right at the moment?

[21:40] How do the other practitioners’ opinions, schools of thought, and philosophies, play into what Dr. Amy has to do?

[23:08] Dr. Amy talks about the first transition she made from working outpatient-

to then start her own private business.

[25:02] Dr. Amy advises those considering starting their own business.

[26:05] Dr. Amy shares what the transition from having her own business to working for the NBA was like. 

[27:47] Dr. Amy talks about the most complex challenge she encountered.

[28:45] Dr. Amy emphasizes that the most essential aspect for a practitioner is to enjoy what they do.

[31:12] Dr. Amy describes the key differences between the roles that she had so far in her career.

[32;54] What are the most significant differences between the NBA and the NFL?

[36:30] How is Dr. Amy’s perspective on work-life balance changed after becoming a mother?

[38:02] Dr. Amy advises those who have a family but also work in professional sports.

[38:45] Dr. Amy shares one popular misconception regarding people working in professional sports.

[40:14] What's one thing Dr. Amy only fully appreciated about professional athletes once she started working with them full-time?

[42:04] Dr. Amy shares a common challenge that she faces working as a personal physio for someone versus when she is working in a team.

[42:59] Dr. Amy answers three rattle questions.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about Finding Small Wins

Follow  Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!

Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by Dani Weatherholt, a professional woman soccer player who shares some stories on her journey in professional sports and how she uses her platform to help the next generation of youth soccer players. Dani is an incredibly kind soul who constantly gives back to young women and athletes. She advocates for Voice in Sport, a community of women and girls that provides educational resources and mentorship for women of all ages. She also consistently participates in Football for Her. 

Today, Dani shares a player's perspective on some of the behind the scene processes with agents and front offices when players are traded, how medical performance practitioners can best care for players, and some inside into the challenges pro athletes face on returning from injuries. 

Key Takeaways:

[1:42] What would the title be if there was a book about Dani?

[2:27] Dani talks about the first chapter of her career in professional sports.

[3:29] Did Dani always dream of becoming a soccer player? 

[4:31] When did Dani get serious about soccer?

[6:42] At 21 years old, Dani leaves the West Coast to go to Orlando.

[8:49] Dani spent four seasons in Orlando.

[9:50] Dani's next step was in Seatle; she shares about this change.

[12:13] Did Dani advocate for her contract, or did she have an agent?

[13:14] Adam shares some aspects of hiring an agent.

[14:04] Dani talks about what makes a good agent from her perspective.

[15:19] Dani sees an opportunity to play in North Carolina.

[16:37] Dani speaks of moving to Seattle and her experience during the pandemic.

[18:51] What happens when an expansion team comes in?

[20:54] Dani talks about how her family attends every game.

[23:14] Dani speaks of the amazing fans they have in LA.

[27:27] Dani advises: ‘Reach out to other Teams and learn from them.”

[28:48] A successful coach gets to know each player, taking the time to learn about their differences and building trust.

[30:02] As an athlete, when you have an injury, you need to trust someone to help you regain your life and ability to do what you love the most.

[30:49] How does Dani build a successful relationship with a physical therapist?

[32:18] Dani explains why she thinks more is learned when you are injured than when you are playing.

[34:26] How did Dani find the small wins while recovering from an injury?

[39:10] Dani takes pride in following her instincts and honoring how she feels in the moment.

[42:10] How to tell when is the right time to move to the next step in the rehabilitation process.

[45:22] Adam and Dani discuss the value of  ‘second-hand confidence’.

[45:46] What are the qualities that make a pro athlete successful?

[47:57] Dani shares on Football for Her.

[50:19] Dani talks about Voice in Sport and its impact on a national level.

[51:38] Dani explains her role as a mentor.

[52:45] What are the teenage girls asking?

[53:40] Dani shares how being in a B Team feels.

[55:19] Dani answers a round of rapid-fire questions.

[58:10] It is Adam’s turn to answer questions about his passion and experience as a physical therapist.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about Small Wins Consulting

Follow  Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!

Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by Frank Kaminsky, an NBA player, who shares his story of enduring rehab while also shedding light on how the business of basketball has affected him over his career.

Key Takeaways: 

[1:16] Where does Frank play basketball before entering the NBA?

[3:21] How does Frank feel about the NIL?

[5:08] How do Frank’s ranking and draft order influence his rookie deal?

[6:03] What was Frank’s fit into the massive TV deal?

[6:57] Apart from the financial aspect, what else changed in the league from 2015 to 2023?

[9:30] Frank shares his perspective on the injury process. 

[10:44] Frank talks about the side of injuries that really can mess with someone’s head.

[11:09] What are the first steps as a player that Frank takes when an initial injury takes place?

[13:50] Adam and Frank talk about the role of the timing of an injury.

[16:26] Frank shares how to balance what is best for the player and what’s best for the Team.

[19:54] How did Frank prepare mentally for his unusual surgery?

[23:43] What was Frank’s attitude toward the physical aspect of rehab?

[25:49] How can PTs do a better job of setting realistic expectations?

[30:21] Frank shares what he thought was the most frustrating aspect of rehab.

[31:43] Has Frank picked any habit during the rehab process?

[33:40] Frank and Adam discuss the value of giving to rest in different cultures.

[38:42] Frank states: “It is not easy showing up for practice every single day.”

[40:27] Frank advises those going through rehab,

[44:00] Bodies take time to heal naturally.

[44:42] Are there any ways in which rehab could be made more enjoyable for professional athletes?

[51:38] Rehab is not like riding a bike, Frank explains why.

[57:59] How may contracts interfere with the rehab process?

[57:35] When Frank has to travel, how does he deal with the mental and physical toll? 

[58:43] Frank shares how challenging it is to play in Denver.

[1:01:56] Frank talks about the day he hit his “rookie wall”.

[1:03:53] Frank shares the crucial importance of being mentally present in the game.

[1:05:46] How does Frank define a small win?

[1:08:50] Frank advises anyone who wants to upgrade their health and performance.

[1:11:27] Frank shares his favorite NBA place to play.

[1:11:47] What is Frank’s favorite arena to play in?

[1:13:30] Frank answers questions about his favorite movies.

[1:15:15] Rapid-fire questions with Frank.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about Finding Small Wins

Follow  Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Surgery, The Ultimate Placebo: A Surgeon Cuts through the Evidence, Ian Harris

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!

Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by Dr. Maggie Byrant, a Doctor of Physical Therapy  in her 5th season working in the NBA. Dr. Bryant is both a Residency trained, and board certified Sports and Orthopedic, physical therapist.

 In today's episode, Maggie shares some great stories about working in pro sports, from memorable locker room moments to attending multiple all-stars games and trips in private jets and helicopters while accompanying players in off-season rehab.  

Key Takeaways:

[1:30] What was Maggie’s entry point into pro sports?

[3:08] Maggie went through residency and then returned to Minnesota to work at Mayo Clinic.

[3:26] Maggie started working for Orlando Magic, NBA Team.

[4:20] Has Maggie ever given any thought about working in some other pro sport?

[5:02] Maggie shares her point of view regarding pro sports schedules.

[5:55] Maggie talks about the charm of the all-stars weekend.

[7:01] What are Maggie’s roles and responsibilities when attending an all-stars event?

[8:02] Maggie says you could enter any event once you get a credential.

[9:04] Maggie’s favorite memory from all-star events.

[12:47] How is life in the NBA for Maggie?

[14:24] What are some of the opportunities for working in the NBA?

[16:34] Maggie talks about her daily routine while traveling with pro sports athletes.

[17:54] Maggie remembers details about her last trip with an athlete to St. Bart 

[18:21] Flying in a private jet is amazing!

[20:45] Working for pro sports athletes is not all rainbows and butterflies.

[24:25] Maggie shares step-by-step what happens when an athlete gets injured.

[27:27] Adam confesses the hardest thing he had to do as a PT 

[29:36] ‘Don’t rush to communicate things.’

[31:17] What’s Maggie’s philosophy regarding rehab?

[33:33] Maggie advises objectivity.

[34:54] How does Maggie manages to stay in the ‘gray’ when most people prefer ‘black and white’?

[36:28] Maggie talks about part of the struggles resulting from being a PT.

[41:15] Maggie explains why messaging is hugely important. 

[42:20] Maggie advises anyone looking to uplevel their game.

[43:57] How does Maggie find her wins throughout the year?

[45:32] Maggie talks about her favorite three cities.

[51:05] Maggie enjoys her work immensely, which is why she sees herself continuing in the same field for a while.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about Finding Small Wins

Follow  Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Basketball, Sports Medicine, and Science

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!

Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by Dr. Stacey Hardin, the first female Head Athletic Trainer in Major League Soccer (MLS),  to talk about the nuances of groin injuries, the importance of elevating women in sports, and how medical decisions may influence an athlete beyond their playing career.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

Key Takeaways:

[1:52] Stacey went to school in Boston, and she talks about her University years.

[2:25] What does Stacey miss the most about Boston?

[3:31] Stacey shares her journey after Boston.

[4:31] How did Stacey get to the point in her career where she currently is?

[5:35] Today, Stacey works mainly remotely.

[6:38] Stacey lists what needs to be considered regarding hips and groin injuries.

[7:48] Stacey talks about the evidence that people should keep moving while recovering from hip and groin injuries.

[8:59] Stacey speaks on the process from injury to returning to the field.

[11:38] Trainers are not doing sufficient work to get athletes as strong as they need to be to meet the demands of their sports.

[12:19] Is there something that PTs can do to prevent hip and groin injuries?

[13:46] Stacey talks about the crucial importance of leadership and communication.

[15:14] How does Stacey define leadership within her framework?

[16:01] Stacey mentions the leaders she admires the most.

[17:03] Stacey talks about her experience being a woman in a field mainly dominated by men.

[21:15] Stacey emphasizes how small steps and changes can make a big difference.

[21:52] What advice would Stacey give to someone struggling to get into sports because of their gender?

[22:44] What motivates Stacey? 

[23:41] Has Stacey ever been in a situation where she felt she lost her way in pro sports?

[25:07] Stacey shares her memories from the ‘bubble’ when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020.

[30:10] When it comes to rehab, how does Stacey help athletes find small wins?

[31:27] How does Stacey define a small win?

[33:55] At the end of the day is all about caring for other people. 

[38:14] Adam confesses experiencing impostor syndrome.

[41:53] Stacey shares her view on longevity and tactics to promote it in professional sports.

[44:25] How can we elevate and integrate practices and the medicine of longevity into the healthcare of athletes?

[49:33] Decisions must not be rushed; the athlete needs the space to comprehend what is going on and reach the point when it is their decision and not just follow somebody’s recommendation.

[51:19] Stacey answers rapid-fire questions.

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about  Finding Small Wins

Follow  Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!

Welcome to another episode of Finding Small Wins Podcast, a space for conversations that pull back the curtain on sports, where to learn how to upgrade health & performance, and shed some light on how some of the best at what they do are finding the small wins that help them along the way.

Adam Loiacono, your host, is a physical therapist in the NBA & a former performance coach in Major League Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League. 

In this episode, Adam is joined by Scottie Parker, Head Athletic Trainer in the NBA and former athletic trainer in the NFL, who shares a few stories while teaching some life lessons. 

Key Takeaways:

[1:48] Scottie started in the NBA in a full-time, seasonal internship position.

[2:02] Scottie shares the exceptional experience of winning a Superbowl.

[3:51] How loud was it to break that Record Guinness?

[5:55] What was the schedule for Scottie when he was a seasonal intern?

[8:04] How much equipment were they loading onto trucks?

[9:06] Scottie talks about the time he went to the NFL Superbowl.

[11:09] Scottie was living full-time in New York.

[11:29] Scottie talks about the details of his everyday life back in NY.

[13:35] Scottie realizes that now that he has three children is not sustainable to keep working as he used to.

[15:12] Scottie was invited to be interviewed by the Hawks.

[17:10] Scottie advises his younger self: Don’t get your identity too tied up to what you do.

[18:19] How do contracts work in this space?

[20:22] What does Scottie think he was doing right for him to keep the job?

[23:14] What are some common characteristics of those who Scottie saw coming and leaving during these nine seasons?

[24:56] What is one of Scottie’s favorite things about the sport?

[26:45] Why is January such a hard month for those in the NBA?

[29:08] What is packing for a ten-day trip?

[30:57] Scottie reaffirms the importance of compassion and care for the players since it is emotionally draining to be separated from their families.

[32:57] Scottie talks about some of the responsibilities of a Head Athletic Trainer.

[34:45] Where did the ‘Jerry Scale’ originate?

[39:05] How does Scottie raise a family across different states?

[41:40] What challenges does Scottie encounter when he travels but really wants to spend time with his family instead?

[45:00] How does Scottie define a small win?

[47:34] How does Scottie help others find their small wins when leading from the middle?

[49:29] How does Scottie create a welcoming space for others to come to him when they are in need?

[51:05] To achieve changes, consistency is the game. 

[53:12] Scottie shares a few more thoughts about small wins.

[57:57] After working within sports, where is Scottie taking that passion?

Mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about Finding Small Wins 

Follow  Adam Loiacono on Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Follow Scottie Parker on Instagram

Tweetables and Quotes:

“The margins of winning in pro sports are so small.”

“Don’t get your identity too tied up to your job.”

“At the end of the day, it is fun to be part of the wins and loses of the Team.”

“The schedule doesn’t care about you and your family.”

Sign up for the FREE 3P Injury Prevention Toolkit at www.AdamLoiacono.com

Follow Adam on Instagram for the latest insights on injury prevention and performance @Adam.Loiacono

For FREE Webinars, rehab tips, and performance plans, check out Adam's YouTube channel

Looking to upgrade your hydration? Check out SkyMD and use discount code ADAM20 

Tired of taking multiple pills as part of your supplement routine? Check out ProBio and receive 20% off!

Need a trusted supplement to improve your health and performance? Go to out Momentus.com for 35% off your first subscription!

Want to enhance your recovery? Grab a pair of FireFly recovery straps today!