Pursuit PT Podcast

Episode 18: PT School Rotations 101: Setting Yourself Up for Success

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.

Episode 17: Top 3 Ways to get into Physical Therapy 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.

Episode 16: A Note to My First-Year Self (From a 3rd Year)

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.

Episode 15: Summer semester recap, how to handle burnout as a PT student

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.

Episode 14: Journey from D2 football to the NFL with Loren Strickland

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.