To The Bone: Sports Medicine Podcast

Our profession isn't one-size-fits-all — each state's rules are shaped by local politics and needs, not some global standard.

From California's registration to Texas’s dual licensure routes, understanding these differences is crucial for practitioners who move or work across state lines. Most issues boil down to the unique legislative process and local priorities, making advocacy at the state level more important than ever.

Brian shares insightful examples illustrating how local politics, reimbursement hurdles, and state-specific regulations shape our profession's evolution—and how you can actively influence it.

Why does recognition of athletic training remain a challenge? How do state legislatures and community advocacy play a role in the future of our profession? And what steps can you take today to ensure you're practicing safely and legally no matter where you work? This isn’t just about compliance—it’s about understanding the system to elevate your practice and protect your patients.

Perfect for athletic trainers, students, and healthcare professionals eager to grasp the landscape and be part of meaningful change. Whether you're practicing in a traditional setting or navigating the wild west of per diem work, this episode equips you with the knowledge to advocate for your role, embrace local realities, and grow the profession from the grassroots level.

Join us as we peel back the layers of licensure, explore the influence of politics and advocacy, and discover how a nuanced understanding can open doors for your career—and better serve your communities. Knowledge is power—hit play to make sure you're navigating the rules of the game.

In this episode, Julia De La Rosa shares her inspiring journey from traditional athletic training in professional sports to thriving in medical sales. Discover the transferable skills, challenges, and opportunities that athletic trainers can leverage when exploring careers beyond the clinic.

Main Topics:

• Julia’s path from athletic training to sports technology and medical sales
• Key transferable skills from athletic training to sales roles
• How to approach the transition into medical sales and what to highlight on your resume
• Understanding the business side: valuing services and products in athletic training and sales
• Addressing burnout and the benefits of a career switch
• Remote work dynamics and the team culture at Henry Schein
• Tips for athletic trainers interested in entering sales and industry resources

In this episode Shannon Fleming and Heather Collins dives into the new CPC Pathfinder system, explaining how it impacts athletic trainers' continuing education and professional development. We break down the framework, requirements, and future vision for this innovative platform.Listen to learn more about this new tool!

Most athletic trainers don’t realize how much legal, ethical, and business knowledge is essential when working as a per diem contractor. If you're considering jumping into the freelance side of athletic training, this episode is your ultimate guide to avoid costly mistakes and maximize your earning potential.

Explore the hidden risks of per diem work—liability issues, state licensure laws, documentation pitfalls, and insurance gaps—that many overlook until it’s too late. Andy Carter, Paul Rupp, and Jason Doctor, all seasoned experts in athletic training and legal compliance, reveal what you must know before stepping onto the field. They break down complex topics like state practice acts, emergency action plans, liability insurance, and documentation protocols, all in clear, actionable terms. You'll discover: how to handle emergency policies at tournaments, negotiate fair rates, and protect yourself from legal liabilities.

In this in-depth interview, Filip Keuppens, CEO of Pickle Juice Company, shares insights into the science behind their innovative product that stops muscle cramps. Discover how they scaled from a small startup to a global brand, the importance of education in functional foods, and the future of hyperfunctional nutrition.

April is Global Volunteer Month

Miranda Newell from the BOC explores the vital role of volunteers in the athletic training profession, highlighting the efforts of the BOC to engage and recognize volunteers, and discussing how volunteerism impacts the growth and credibility of the field.

Tammi Gaw, a sports law attorney with a background in athletic training, unveils the hidden clauses lurking in employment agreements that may be preventing you from maximizing your earnings. She explains how non-compete, non-solicitation, confidentiality, and conflict of interest clauses are often misunderstood or overlooked — yet they directly impact your career flexibility. Tammi shares ways to spot these provisions, understand their true enforceability based on where you work, and navigate the legal minefield of healthcare contracts. *This is not legal advise, make sure to consult a lawyer for employment specific questions.

Jay Ostia, founder of Nexus Sports Medicine, reveals how strategic self-funding, innovative product lines, and international networking are transforming the sports medicine industry. If you're tired of the same old growth advice and want actionable strategies to build a resilient, profitable business on your own terms, this episode is your playbook.Jay shares the real challenges of self-funding product innovation, navigating tariffs, and patenting high-impact designs—all while maintaining control over his company’s direction. He discusses the importance of legal protection to prevent copycats, the costs behind patents and trademarks, and why relying solely on third-party funding or investors can complicate your growth. You'll discover practical insights on managing cash flow, the drawbacks of crowdfunding, and how small business owners can leverage cash-based models for faster revenue.

Ryan Kendrick, the inventor of Dynamic Tape, reveals how this revolutionary system differs from kinesiology tape and the science behind its design. We talk about the secret to a biomechanical tape that actually works like an external muscle—absorbing load, guiding movement, and dramatically improving performance and rehab outcomes. Most taping methods treat support passively, but Ryan’s innovation is built around mechanical load management—resisting forces early, allowing full range, and helping your body move naturally without restriction. Dive into the evolution of the product, from initial prototypes to the high-performance tapes made from recycled plastics, and discover how it’s being used by elite athletes, injured patients, and even kids with neurological conditions to change lives overnight.

Nikki Harris, a leading educator and advocate, revealing how a clear sense of who you are and what you stand for can open doors to greater respect, better compensation, and authentic leadership in a complex, evolving profession.We discuss why many athletic trainers struggle to articulate their value in a crowded marketplace—and how shifting your mindset from support staff to strategic healthcare professional can revolutionize your career. Nikki shares actionable frameworks for building a personal brand rooted in your core values, expertise, and unique purpose—whether you're just starting out or deep into your journey. You'll learn how to harness outcomes-based documentation, effective advocacy, and strategic positioning to elevate your role and influence.