In this episode of What’s Best For The Patient Is Best For Business, Jerry sits down with Dr. Valerie Rucker-Bussie, Community Development Officer for Rizing Tide, and Dr. Heidi Jannenga, Founder of Rizing Tide, to discuss how their nonprofit is addressing the critical shortage of physical therapists while improving diversity and representation in the profession.

Rizing Tide provides scholarships, mentorship, and career development opportunities for first- and second-year DPT students from underrepresented backgrounds, helping to build a more inclusive and culturally competent workforce. Heidi shares the inspiration behind the organization—rooted in her own journey with WebPT—and Valerie highlights how their Employer Connect Program bridges the gap between students and future employers, creating a pipeline of talent for clinics nationwide.

Key Takeaways:

• Solving the PT Shortage – Rizing Tide is tackling the industry’s workforce crisis by supporting students who might otherwise drop out due to financial barriers.

• The Power of Representation – Research shows better patient outcomes when providers reflect the communities they serve—Rizing Tide is making that a reality.

• Community & Mentorship – Beyond scholarships, the organization fosters a PT Pod community where students access mentorship, networking, and career opportunities.

• Employer Benefits – Clinics partnering with Rizing Tide gain early access to top-tier talent, reducing recruitment challenges and improving workforce diversity.

• The Business Case for DEI – Diversity isn’t just ethical—it’s good for business, expanding patient access and driving long-term growth.

Tune in to hear how Rizing Tide is shaping the future of PT one scholar at a time.

Learn more at Rizing-Tide.com

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