We're sharing inspiring stories and the latest from our Education, Clinical, and Research missions. Moving Ahead is a new podcast that shares inspiring stories and highlights the latest from alumni, faculty and friends of the Program in Physical Therapy at Washington University in St. Louis.
Publisher
Washington University’s Program in Physical Therapy
Mentorship and Community: Strengthening Connections in PT Education
In this episode of Moving Ahead, hosts Dr. Julian Magee and Dr. Patty Navarro McGee speak with Jen Dubbert and Dr. Sylvia Son about the role of mentorship and student groups in the Washington University Program in Physical Therapy. The conversation highlights how these connections create supportive environments that encourage authenticity, strengthen relationships, and promote professional growth. Hear how faculty and student leaders are helping shape the future of physical therapy education through community and meaningful dialogue.
21 Jul 2025
Redefining Aging: Dr. Beth Templin’s Bold Vision for Geriatric Physical Therapy
In this inspiring episode of Moving Ahead, hosts Dr. Julian Magee and Dr. Patty Navarro McGee sit down with Dr. Beth Templin, a geriatric physical therapist, entrepreneur, and advocate for healthy aging. Beth shares her journey from home health PT to founding HouseFit, a thriving clinic that blends outpatient therapy with high-intensity fitness for older adults. Together, they explore ageism in healthcare, the power of wellness-based care, and how PTs can challenge stereotypes to empower aging adults. Whether you're a student, clinician, or just curious about innovative care models, this episode will leave you energized and hopeful about the future of aging.
11 Jul 2025
Pain, Trust, and Stigma: Ned Presnall on Integrating Mental Health Into Everyday Care
How can health professionals address both the physical and emotional dimensions of pain without bias or stigma? In this episode, clinical social worker and researcher Ned Presnall joins us to explore the critical overlap between mental health and physical health. Drawing from his experience in counseling, addiction treatment, and policy leadership, Ned highlights why taking patients’ pain seriously, whether physical, psychological, or both, is essential to building trust and improving outcomes.
We discuss the role of empathy and active listening in clinical practice, the harm of dismissing or labeling patients as “difficult” or “noncompliant,” and the barriers that billing and productivity pressures create for true patient-centered care. Ned also reflects on the tension between humanistic and biological models of mental health, and why both perspectives are necessary for meaningful treatment.
This conversation challenges practitioners, educators, and students to rethink their approach: trust isn’t a “soft skill”-it’s the foundation for care that heals.
1 Jul 2025
From Student to Leader: Dr. Dale Thuet’s Journey in Physical Therapy
In this episode of Moving Ahead, the Washington University Program in Physical Therapy podcast, co-hosts Dr. Julian Magee and Dr. Patty Navarro McGee welcome Dr. Dale Thuet, alum and faculty member serving as Director of the Orthopedic Residency Program. Dr. Thuet shares his unconventional path to physical therapy, his vision for the residency, and the challenges and opportunities of launching a new program. Listeners will also hear candid reflections on mentorship, community engagement, and what makes WashU’s residency unique.
6 Jan 2024
006- Assessment: Keeping the End in Mind
Welcome to another insightful episode of Moving Ahead, The Physical Therapy Podcast by Washington University Program in Physical Therapy. Join us as host Dr. Steven Ambler, Director of Professional Curriculum and Associate Professor, engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Carey Holleran, Assistant Director of Student Assessment and Program Evaluation for the Program in Physical Therapy at Washington University.
In this episode, Dr. Ambler and Dr. Holleran dive into the intricacies of the student assessment redesign process within the renewed Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curriculum. Gain valuable insights into the collaborative efforts, methodologies, and considerations involved in reshaping assessments to meet the evolving needs of aspiring physical therapists.
Whether you're a student curious about the changes in assessment approaches or a professional in the field, this episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the thought processes driving curriculum enhancements. Tune in to Moving Ahead for an engaging discussion that sheds light on the dynamic landscape of physical therapy education and assessment.
18 Dec 2023
005- Scientist, Academic and Mentor
In this episode of Moving Ahead, The Physical Therapy Podcast by Washington University Program in Physical Therapy, host Dr. Linda Van Dillen, Division Director of Research and Professor of Physical Therapy and Orthopedic Surgery sits down with guest Dr. Edelle Field-Fote, a renowned alumna of the Movement Science Program, the episode explores Dr. Field-Fote's inspiring journey from physical therapist to Ph.D. holder.
Dr. Field-Fote, currently a Professor at Emory University and Director of Spinal Cord Injury Research at the Shepard Center, shares insights into her decision to pursue a Ph.D. in movement science and how this choice has shaped her role as a scientist, academic, and mentor. As a former President for the Foundation of Physical Therapy Research and Worthingham fellow, Dr. Field-Fote reflects on her experiences, triumphs, and challenges, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of clinical practice and academia.
Tune in to gain valuable insights into the transformative power of a Ph.D. in movement science, and discover how Dr. Field-Fote's path has contributed to advancements in physical therapy research. Whether you're a student aspiring to follow a similar trajectory or a seasoned professional seeking wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamic world of physical therapy. Join us on Moving Ahead as we explore the profound impact of academic pursuits on the field of physical therapy.
27 Apr 2022
004 - Closing the Gap
In this episode of Moving Ahead, Doctor Greg Holtzman, Division Director of Clinical Practice and Professor of Physical Therapy at Washington University's Program in Physical Therapy, talks to Vanessa Lanier, Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy at Washington University's Program in Physical Therapy about her nontraditional career path and her part in a recent study from the Van Dillen Lab, published in JAMA on the treatment of individuals with chronic low back pain. They also discussed her unique opportunity to be part of a research study that allowed her to assume clinical and research related roles.
20 Dec 2021
003 - Building Bridges
In this episode of Moving Ahead, Dr. Linda Van Dillen, Division Director of Research and Professor of Physical Therapy, Orthopaedic Surgery, speaks with Dr. Michael Harris, Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy, Orthopaedic Surgery and Mechanical Engineering, about his path to Washington University Program in Physical Therapy. Working in orthopaedic biomechanics, his lab investigates joint shape, musculature, and associated biomechanics as they change due to injury or disease and how to improve interventions to preserve or restore joint health. Listen here to learn more about how Dr. Harris intentionally sought out a position in a Physical Therapy Program after realizing his engineering background could serve as the bridge between physical therapists and surgeons.
19 Nov 2021
002 - Sitting Down with Shirley Sahrmann
In this episode of Moving Ahead, Dr. Shirley Sahrmann, the renowned teacher, researcher, and clinician, joins Dr. Greg Holtzman for a chat over Zoom. Dr. Sahrmann shares her thoughts on the seminal events that helped serve as the foundation for the APTA’s vision statement and advice leaders and professionals to achieve success in a constantly changing healthcare system. She also reflects on the legacy and impact that Karen Donahue left on the profession.
Dr. Sahrmann is known for providing “Pearls” to the graduating students of Washington University’s Program in Physical Therapy, and she shares a few for those in the Physical Therapy Profession during her discussion with Dr. Holtzman.
27 Oct 2021
001 - Meet Julian Magee
Dr. Julian Magee recently joined the Program in Physical Therapy in a newly created role- the Assistant Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
In this episode, we'll talk to Dr. Magee about his path that led him to Washington University, his philosophy on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, and what he really thinks of provel cheese. And with that, we invite you to Meet Julian Magee!
Host of Moving Ahead: The Physical Therapy Podcast?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
