Transition to Practice Series: Part 1

Secondary School ATSA Programs

In this episode, we sit down with Becky Scales to explore the impact of secondary school ATSA programs—why they matter, how they’re built, and how they help shape future athletic trainers. Tune in to hear how early engagement can spark long-term passion for the profession.

NATM with Rob Dicks

To end National Athletic Training Month, we sit down with Rob Dicks, president of the Georgia Athletic Trainers’ Association, for a real conversation on leadership, advocacy, and the future of athletic training. From giving back to the profession to navigating its current challenges, Rob shares insight on what it takes to continuously move the profession forward and how we can mentor each other to be better.

Then vs Now

It’s National Athletic Training Month, and we’re celebrating this year’s theme, “The Care You Can Count On,” with a special Then vs. Now conversation. Host Mikayla Talak (6 years in the profession) sits down with Jay Pearson (32 years) and Hailey Hovda (2 years) to explore how athletic training has evolved — from education and certification to work–life balance, media visibility, and the transition to MSAT programs. While the profession continues to change, its commitment to dependable, athlete-centered care remains constant.

Transition to Practice Series: Part 2

We’re back with Part 2 of our Transition to Practice conversation with Doug Wardy, diving deeper into the real questions new athletic trainers are asking as they enter the profession. This episode unpacks how to prepare for outreach/PRN work, navigate tough conversations with parents, and how social media can serve as a valuable tool for athletic trainers. Doug and Mikayla break down how to make sense of your first benefits package and explore how to determine which athletic training setting fits you best when you’re still finding your path. We also bring in insights from young professionals about what they wish they’d known before starting their first job, highlighting the realities, surprises, and lessons that come with those early career steps. A practical, relatable follow‑up for anyone stepping into the profession—or guiding those who are.

Transition to Practice Series: Part 1

We’re kicking off our Transition to Practice series with Doug Wardy, highlighting what new athletic training graduates face as they enter the profession. In this episode, we talk about what employers are looking for, the value of strong communication skills, the importance of staying curious throughout your career, and why feeling nervous at the start is completely normal. Doug and Mikayla share personal career experiences that highlight how embracing discomfort can fuel growth and shape you as a professional. A practical and encouraging conversation for anyone making the jump from student to clinician.