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.