Welcome to the Pursuit PT Podcast, hosted by two DPT students from the Medical University of South Carolina! Join us as we explore the ins and outs of the physical therapy journey. From application tips for prospective students to the challenges and triumphs of DPT school, we cover it all. Each episode features insightful discussions, expert interviews, and personal stories that illuminate the path to becoming a physical therapist. Whether you’re just starting your journey or deep into your studies, our podcast is your go-to resource for everything related to physical therapy. Tune in and let’
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.
12 Sept 2025
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.
29 Aug 2025
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.
1 Aug 2025
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.
4 Jul 2025
Episode 14: Journey from D2 football to the NFL with Loren Strickland
Detroit Lions safety Loren Strickland discusses his unique journey from Division II football to the NFL with hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison, highlighting the resilience required to achieve his dream in this interview.
20 Jun 2025
Episode 13: Dr. Kenneth Miller, PT, DPT, GCS
Dr. Kenneth Miller, PT, DPT, GCS discusses geriatric physical therapy, challenges, rewards, and key takeaways from the World Physiotherapy Congress in Tokyo in an interview with Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison.
6 Jun 2025
Episode 12: Life in the IFL – The Road to Pro Football with Franky West Jr. and Landry Mavungu
Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison interview Franky West Jr. and Landry Mavungu about their perseverance and passion while navigating the Indoor Football League, offering insight into the realities of professional football.
23 May 2025
Episode 11: MUSC Residential DPT Program Director, Dr. Sara Virella Kraft
Dr. Sara Virella Kraft discusses leading a Doctor of Physical Therapy program, the evolution of physical therapy, and its future in an interview with Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison.
18 Apr 2025
Episode 10: Pediatric Professior, Dr. Cindy Dodds
In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison sit down with Dr. Cindy Dodds, PT, DPT, PCS — a distinguished professor in the Physical Therapy program and the Director of the Pediatric Residency at the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Dodds shares her inspiring journey to MUSC and the passion that led her to specialize in pediatric physical therapy. She also opens up about her involvement in global health missions and the impact of her work around the world. Join us for an insightful conversation exploring the field of pediatric physical therapy.
27 Mar 2025
Episode 9: Abby, Ashlyn, and Chloe
In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison are joined by their fellow classmates, Abby Parsons, Ashlyn Bayadi, and Chloe Boroff, 3 students in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the Medical University of South Carolina. They share about their paths to physical therapy school, including the challenges they overcame and the motivations that drove them to pursue this rewarding career. They open up about their experiences in the DPT program, from the rigorous coursework to the hands-on clinical rotations, and the supportive community that has made the journey even more meaningful. Tune in for a candid conversation about their goals and ambitions in the world of Physical Therapy.
14 Mar 2025
Episode 8: Byron Wilson
In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison are joined by their fellow classmate, Byron Wilson, a student in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the Medical University of South Carolina. Byron shares his path to physical therapy school, including the challenges he overcame and the motivations that drove him to pursue this rewarding career. He opens up about his experiences in the DPT program, from the rigorous coursework to the hands-on clinical rotations, and the supportive community that has made the journey even more meaningful. Tune in for a candid conversation about the dedication, passion, and resilience it takes to succeed in physical therapy school and on the Intramural Basketball Court!
7 Mar 2025
Episode 7: Cody Baer
In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison sit down with Cody Baer, a professional basketball player who made the leap from Eureka College in Illinois to playing in Europe. Cody talks about his transition from NCAA basketball to the competitive world of international hoops, sharing the challenges he faced along the way and the lessons he's learned on and off the court. Now playing in Georgia, he offers insights into the unique basketball culture in Europe and how his time at Eureka College helped shape his career. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about perseverance, adaptability, and the journey of taking your game to the global stage!
17 Feb 2025
Episode 6: Steven Showers
In this episode, hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students at the Medical University of South Carolina, sit down with fellow DPT student Steven Showers from Bowling Green State University. Steven is currently navigating the challenges of a hybrid and accelerated PT program, and he shares his unique experience of balancing intensive coursework with hands-on clinical practice. The hosts dive into the specifics of the hybrid learning model, how it has shaped Steven's approach to physical therapy, and the personal insights he's gained along the way. They discuss the benefits and hurdles of an accelerated program and how it's preparing Steven for his future career in patient care. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the world of physical therapy education and the journey of becoming a skilled clinician in today’s fast-evolving field!
18 Jan 2025
Episode 5: CSCS
In this episode, hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison reflect on their recent achievement of earning their Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification. They discuss the journey of preparing for and passing the exam, highlighting the knowledge and skills they gained along the way. The hosts dive into the significance of the CSCS credential in the field of strength and conditioning, and how it enhances their ability to work with athletes and clients. They also share personal insights into the challenges and rewards of studying for the certification, and how the process has deepened their understanding of exercise science. Join them as they celebrate this milestone and discuss how it will shape their future careers in fitness and performance training!
1 Jan 2025
Episode 4: Ben Smith
In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison, both Doctor of Physical Therapy students at the Medical University of South Carolina, welcome their classmate Be Smith to the podcast. Ben shares his inspiring journey to physical therapy school, revealing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. He discusses what motivated him to pursue a career in physical therapy and how his experiences have shaped his perspective on the profession. The trio dives into the unique aspects of the DPT program at MUSC, including the supportive community, hands-on learning opportunities, and the rigorous coursework. Tune in for an insightful conversation about resilience, camaraderie, and the passion that drives future physical therapists!
29 Nov 2024
Episode 3: Clinical Practicum 1
Physical therapy students Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison share their hands-on experiences in Clinical Practicum 1, deepening their understanding of the field and preparing them for future challenges.
15 Nov 2024
Episode 2: Jake Moran
In this episode, co-hosts Billy Lankford and Austyn Ellison, both Doctor of Physical Therapy students at the Medical University of South Carolina, welcome their classmate Jake Moran to the podcast. Jake shares his inspiring journey to physical therapy school, revealing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. He discusses what motivated him to pursue a career in physical therapy and how his experiences have shaped his perspective on the profession. The trio dives into the unique aspects of the DPT program at MUSC, including the supportive community, hands-on learning opportunities, and the rigorous coursework. Tune in for an insightful conversation about resilience, camaraderie, and the passion that drives future physical therapists!
2 Nov 2024
Episode 1: Introductions
Welcome to the Pursuit PT Podcast, hosted by two DPT students from the Medical University of South Carolina! Join us as we explore the ins and outs of the physical therapy journey. From application tips for prospective students to the challenges and triumphs of DPT school, we cover it all. Each episode features insightful discussions, expert interviews, and personal stories that illuminate the path to becoming a physical therapist. Whether you’re just starting your journey or deep into your studies, our podcast is your go-to resource for everything related to physical therapy. Tune in and let’s pursue this passion together!
Who has been a guest on Pursuit PT Podcast
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Loren Strickland
Dr Kenneth Miller
Franky West Jr
Landry Mavungu
Dr Sara Virella Kraft
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
8 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 33 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
54
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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