This week, Danielle York, owner of York Orthopedic Recovery , joins Eli Hallak to discuss her journey as a business owner, the importance of adapting care to different age groups, and why seeking guidance from experienced professionals is essential before taking big steps. They also explore how those around us often recognize our potential before we do—and what it means to grow a family, both in business and at home. York Orthopedic Recovery...
Jun 30, 2025•53 min•Ep. 51
This week, Eli Hallak welcomes Garrett Hedeen, member of the NAEMT Workforce Committee and Safety Specialist at Austin-Travis County EMS, for a look into the often-overlooked world of EMS safety. They explore the little things that are often taken for granted but make a big impact, the need for bold change, and key differences between safety in EMS and athletic training settings. Garrett also highlights the importance of trust, constant readiness, and addressing common misconceptions about emerg...
Jun 27, 2025•48 min•Ep. 50
In this episode, Dr. Mary Mundrane-Zweiacher, a Certified Hand Therapist at Premier Physical Therapy and Sports Performance, joins Eli Hallak. Together, they explore her journey from a Pre-Med Biology major aspiring to be a doctor to becoming a practitioner of the "Holy Trinity" (PT, ATC, and CHT). They discuss how to bring Sports Medicine to Hand Therapy—and Hand Therapy to Sport—why marching bands need Athletic Trainers just as much as athletic teams do, how giving patients a modicum of contro...
Jun 26, 2025•58 min•Ep. 49
WRAP IT UP: Sports Medicine + More discusses Sports Medicine and athletic healthcare for youth athletics/activities, high school athletics/activities, college athletics, and professional sports. Also, current events and other topics that "pop" into the heads of the host and its contributors. Hosted by Eli Hallak, M.Ed., ATc, EMT, nationally recognized athletic trainer, and features regulars Joel Doerning, Victoria Chavez, Tim Moscicki, Cindy Kramer, Julie Rudy and Gabriel Hallak. The program wil...
Jun 25, 2025•2 min
In this episode, Darryl Conway , Executive Senior Associate Athletic Director / Chief Health & Welfare Officer at the University of Michigan and Co-Owner of Sports Medicine Emergency Management, joins Eli Hallak. Together, they discuss the evolution of the profession, the importance of autonomy, and the critical role of a strong work ethic. They examine how the profession has transformed from a focus on ice and stem treatments to embracing movement-based rehabilitation and innovative modalit...
Jun 25, 2025•53 min•Ep. 48
In this episode, Marshall Knowles of Perry Weather joins Eli Hallak to share his professional background and highlight the critical role of accurate, real-time weather data—covering lightning, humidity, wet-bulb globe temperature, and air quality. Together, they explore the expanding role of weather technology in athletics and how Perry Weather, while often starting as a tool for sports programs, quickly evolves into a comprehensive, campus-wide safety solution with broad applications. Perry Wea...
Jun 24, 2025•59 min•Ep. 47
In this episode, District Directors from the National Athletic Trainers' Association—Vicky Graham, Tanya Dargusch, Rob Marshall, and Valerie Herzog—join Eli Hallak for a candid conversation about the future of the athletic training profession and what's taking place in their Districts. Together, they explore how progress in clinical settings can elevate practice across the board, emphasize the power of volunteering over complaining when it comes to creating change, and challenge the narrative of...
Jun 23, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 46
This week, Eli Hallak is joined by David Chaffin, West Regional Sales Manager at Medco Sports Medicine. Together, these two seasoned veterans of Athletic Training engage in an insightful deep-dive into the value of relationships, the depth of shared knowledge, and what it takes to transition from practicing sports medicine on the field to providing the tools and supplies that make it possible. They explore why small schools should never be overlooked, how to show appreciation for larger programs...
Jun 16, 2025•54 min•Ep. 45
This week, Bill Ito, Industrial Injury Prevention Specialist and Certified Athletic Trainer, joins Eli Hallak to share his journey through the medical field. Together, they discuss how Athletic Trainers in industrial settings enhance wellness in the workplace, the value of embracing change, and why effective communication is at the heart of the medical profession.
Jun 09, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 44
This week, Stephanie Coffey and Carlin Corral, Athletic Trainers at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy , take center stage with Eli Hallak. Together, they explore the unique world of Performance and Theatrical Athletes; together they discuss why specialized care is essential, how Pilates has become a go-to method for strength and injury prevention, and what it’s like working at the crossroads of art and entertainment right in the heart of Hollywood. American Musical and Dramatic Academy: ...
Jun 02, 2025•59 min•Ep. 43
This week, Eli Hallak is joined by Arlene Krause and Doug Krause, co-owners of British Swim School Burbank/Glendale, along with Anthony Faalnik, Director of Aquatics. Together, they dive into the critical topics of swim safety and drowning prevention. The conversation explores the British Swim School’s proven life-saving teaching model, the profound impact of swim lessons for children as young as three months old, and how adaptive swim classes are making a difference in the lives of swimmers wit...
May 19, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 41
This week, Dr. Vicky Graham, NATA District One Director and Associate Professor at American Public University System , meets with Eli Hallak. Together, they discuss the importance of advocating for yourself, why getting to know the other medical professionals you come in contact with can be vital to your future, and the importance of setting professional boundaries to improve work/life balance. NATA District One American Public University System...
May 12, 2025•54 min•Ep. 40
This week, Eli Hallak and Victoria Chavez meet with Dr. Mandi Elder, Athletic Training Program Director at the University of Colorado - Colorado Springs’ Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences, as well as an Athletic Trainer and Research Coordinator for the Justin Sportsmedicine Team. Together, they discuss the benefits of working with someone who’s been there before, the evolution of clinical care in rodeo, ‘Mutton Bustin,’ why you can see more action at a ro...
May 05, 2025•55 min•Ep. 39
In this episode, Eli Hallak welcomes Jay Christensen, Head Athletic Trainer for Disney On Ice . They discuss Jay’s experience traveling the world, the challenges of hunting for medical supplies in different countries, the importance of being able to back-up your reputation with knowledge, and the unique benefits of global travel. Disney On Ice Feld Entertainment...
Apr 28, 2025•52 min•Ep. 38
This week, Dr. Cody Walker, Supervisor of Sports Medicine at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and President-Elect of Arkansas Athletic Trainers’ Association meets with Eli Hallak. Together, they reflect on a recent AATA legislative victory, compare aspects of Medical Care in Arkansas and California, marvel at how educated the new generation of AT students are, and the importance of having a seat at the table. Arkansas Children’s Hospital Arkansas Athletic Trainers’ Association...
Apr 21, 2025•53 min•Ep. 37
In this episode, Ashley Roberts of O2X Human Performance joins Eli Hallak to discuss the value of embedding Certified Athletic Trainers with Tactical Athletes. She explains why using data and trends to demonstrate quality care is key to gaining buy-in, how same-day access to treatment (like seeing an injured Marine immediately) can drastically improve outcomes, and reminds us why it's essential to never let others undermine your true potential.
Apr 17, 2025•50 min•Ep. 42
In this episode, Eli Hallak welcomes Dr. Ryan Comeau, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Kinetisense . They dive into the growing role of technology in healthcare, explore how motion analysis is revolutionizing clinical care, and discuss how data-driven approaches are enhancing injury prevention and rehabilitation across multiple levels of the healthcare industry. Kinetisense...
Apr 14, 2025•56 min•Ep. 36
In this episode, Eli Hallak welcomes Rachel Purcell of MLB Athletics and Athletes Unlimited . They discuss the unpredictable paths a career can take, why it’s always better to take the interview, and the importance of knowing the difference between people that admire you, and people that support you.
Mar 31, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 35
This week, United States Equestrian Federation Team Physio Jennifer Mitchell and Athletic Training Supervisor at Premier Physical Therapy and Sports Performance , Jenna Gauding , join Eli Hallak and Tiff Haub to highlight the evolving importance of rider healthcare. Together, they discuss the challenges of maintaining work-life balance while constantly on the move, the value of a strong team of medical professionals, and the critical role continuity of care plays in the health and longevity of a...
Mar 17, 2025•56 min•Ep. 34
In this episode, Eli Hallak and Victoria Chavez welcome Dr. Christopher Ludwig , a professor at California State University, Fresno, and Athletic Trainer Provocateur. Together, they address changes to the status quo, what AT students should truly be learning, and the importance of elevating and promoting the field. CSU Fresno's Master Degree in Athletic Training program Fresno State: Athletic Training Education LinkedIn Instagram X...
Mar 03, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 33
This week, Eli Hallak welcomes Jeff Nelson, Regional Sales Manager at Henry Schein Athletics and Schools. He oversees California, Hawaii, Nevada, Washington, and Oregon. They discuss the evolving medical supply industry in high school and college athletics, the importance of always being prepared, and why tenacity is a valuable trait. Henry Schein Athletics and Schools...
Feb 28, 2025•50 min•Ep. 32
This week, Eli Hallak welcomes Ky Kugler, President of the California Athletic Trainers' Association (CATA), for a follow-up to their 2024 conversation. They reflect on CATA’s legislative victories, explore what’s next for Certified Athletic Trainers in California, and discuss why now is the time to make your voice heard. 2025 CATA Annual Symposium
Feb 24, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 31
This week, “Fresh out of the pot” ATc and rising star Shelby Janes joins Eli Hallak to discuss the difference that can be made while working in Equine Therapy and the Industrial Setting. Together they explore the importance of body awareness, how it always comes back to your core and hips, and why if you have an idea, or an opportunity, go after it because they can lead to really big things. Warm Beach: Camp & Conference Center...
Feb 17, 2025•56 min•Ep. 30
This week, Eli Hallak and Victoria Chavez speak to Dr. Valerie Herzog , Brady Presidential Distinguished Professor, Chair of the Department of Athletic Training at Weber State University , and the Rocky Mountain Athletic Trainers’ Association (RMATA) Director. Together, they discuss the importance of advocating for your profession, the benefits of teaming up with other medical providers, and how you should never stop learning about your profession....
Feb 03, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 29
This week, Eli Hallak and Julie Rudy talk to Mike West, the Commissioner of Athletics for the California Interscholastic Federation: Southern Section and former ATc. Together, they discuss the evolution and acceptance of Sports Medicine in California High Schools, the benefits of nonverbal communication out in the field, and the importance of leaving a legacy for those who come after you. California Intersholastic Federation, Southern Section...
Jan 20, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 28
In this episode, Eli Hallak and Dr. Ashley Sink speak with Dr. Jim Kyle of The Kyle Group about the vital role of the Medical Time Out system in athletic events. Together, they discuss the importance of pre-game planning for “What if’s”, the necessity of effective emergency response, and how your actions during a crisis can impact everyone involved. The Kyle Group Medical Time Out Korey Stringer Institute...
Jan 06, 2025•55 min•Ep. 27
In this episode, Industrial Injury Prevention Specialist and Certified Athletic Trainer Jacob Pope meets with Eli Hallak to discuss care for “Industrial Athletes”. Together, they explore the role that Athletic Trainers who are working in industrial settings have in helping prevent injuries, maintain workforce wellness, and improve employee health. WorkCare, Inc.
Dec 23, 2024•49 min•Ep. 26
Eli Hallak meets with Tony Villani, founder of XPE Sports and creator of the SHREDmill . Together, they take a deep dive into speed training for athletes, the pitfalls of overtraining, and why whoever’s running on the field is losing. XPE Sports SHREDmill
Dec 09, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 25
This week, a vital profession is brought to the forefront as Dr. Desaree Festa, Team Sport Psychologist of the NFL Buffalo Bills , joins Eli Hallak to discuss the importance of Mental Wellness in Sport. Join us for an honest conversation about the benefits of being embedded with an Organization full-time, the value of self-care, and why athletics is a vehicle to express who you are; it does not define you.
Nov 25, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 24
Eli Hallak reaches into the mailbag this week to ask Veteran ATc's student-submitted questions. Join us as we get poignant answers from Cindy Kramer, Tim Moscicki, Kirsten Farrell, Angela Bushmaker, Kristen Dizon, Ashley Sink, and Jonathan Gedalia.
Nov 11, 2024•49 min•Ep. 23