What does it take to go from saying “I’m just a PTA” to being a respected leader, educator, and advocate in the PT space?

In this episode, we talk with Jessica, a physical therapist assistant, Army veteran, educator, and RTM trailblazer who’s rewriting the script on what it means to be a PTA. She shares her powerful journey through massage therapy, military service, clinical care, and into education and leadership — including a game-changing moment when she was told, “We want YOU” by the APTA.

Whether you're a PTA, DPT, student, or clinic owner, Jessica’s story will inspire you to stop waiting for permission and start showing up where you belong.

In this episode, we sit down with Katie Sutton, a nationally recognized PTA leader, podcast host, and educator who’s reshaping how PTAs see their value, their role, and their future. Katie is the host of the PTA+ Podcast, a platform designed to elevate the voice of Physical Therapist Assistants and help them grow personally and professionally.

We talk about:

• How PTAs can grow beyond the clinic
• The inspiration behind launching PTA+
• Katie’s journey from clinician to clinical educator and thought leader
• Why representation matters at every level — including the APTA House of Delegates
• The skills PTAs need right now to thrive in skilled nursing, outpatient, and leadership roles

If you're a PTA, student, or educator, this one’s for you.

Guest: Leah Voorhies

Katie Sutton and Jimmy McKay dive into the major shakeups coming in rehab therapy:

- The PT/PTA/OTA workforce shortage and why high schoolers are choosing other paths

- The power of *unpacking* a career before diving in

- 5–10% innovation boosts that actually stick—no panaceas

- Why PTAs and digital tools are set to shoulder more care (and business!) load

- The importance of leaning into *unsafe* zones first — “luck favors the bold”

Tune in from DC as we head to the summit—expect insights, surprises, and actionable predictions!