This week, Eli Hallak speaks with Breana Cutler, of the Weber State Spirit Squad, about the unique demands of caring for Performance Athletes in Cheer, Dance, and Spirit Teams. Breana shares how she had to relearn prehab, rehab, and daily care due to the athletes’ specialized skills, high pain tolerance, and exceptional mental toughness. They break down the distinct roles within teams and discuss the long-overdue recognition that these athletes are finally receiving, along with the mental toll of constant performance and the support resources available. Breana also offers insight into what it takes to become an ATC in the performance-athlete space.

Weber State Spirit Squad

In this episode, Eli Hallak talks with Dr. Vanessa Shannon, Ph.D., Sport Psychology, about creating better experiences for athletes during challenging moments. They discuss how the pandemic spotlighted the need for mental health and mental performance in sport, the global impact of the “twisties” and the “yips” in reducing stigma, and the ongoing question of whether the goal is helping athletes feel better or get better. They also highlight the essential role teams play in supporting athlete wellness and performance.

Optimize Consulting

Eli Hallak welcomes Dr. Christopher Schmidt, PhD, ATC, Director of Faculty Development & Support, and ATu Education Lead at Clinical Pattern, to discuss his professional journey and the evolving landscape of athletic training education. Dr. Schmidt shares how his path led him to his current role and offers insight into the state-of-the-art education technology powering ATu. The conversation explores strategies to enhance student engagement, the integration of modern tools in teaching, and how educators and students alike can leverage technology to elevate learning and professional growth.

Clinical Pattern: Health Science and Education Redefined

In this episode, Eli Hallak sits down with Dr. Ashley Sink to discuss the value and impact of pursuing advanced degrees in athletic training. They break down the key differences between a DAT and a PhD, explore the benefits of higher education, and highlight why it’s essential for athletic trainers to stay academically informed as the profession continues to evolve. Dr. Sink also shares insight into the importance of building a strong professional network and how peers in a cohort often become “trauma-bonded for life” through shared challenges and growth.

In this episode, Eli Hallak sits down with Destinee Grove to explore how athletic training bridges public health and community health. Together, they discuss the role of inclusion, diversity, and equity in the profession, the importance of being brave enough to get involved, and how interstate licensure and collaboration can strengthen care across communities. Destinee also shares why NATA membership is vital, reminding us that when athletic trainers are supported, everyone benefits.

In this emotional episode, we pay tribute to Jim Bonds, who left us too soon. Eli Hallak and Gabriel Hallak sit down with coaches and former players of the St. Francis High School Golden Knights, Pat Carroll, John Carroll, and Dietrich Riley. Together, they discuss the legacy and the loss of a friend and mentor.

This episode was originally released on 10/28/24

The SCV Signal: Jim Bonds

Pasadena Star-News: Jim Bonds Memorial

International Myeloma Foundation (IMF)

The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF)

Julie Rudy and Brian Gallagher talk with Eli Hallak and Joel Doerning about the transition of Athletic Trainers from College to High School. These seasoned professionals discuss the evolving roles of Athletic Trainers while debating the need for better work-life balance, improved compensation, and the multiple roles that they need to play to ensure quality care.

This episode was originally released on 05/13/24

Athletes who are often ignored are brought to light as Eli Hallak meets with Professional dancers, choreographers, and entertainers, Effie Tutko and Chase Bowden. Together, they discuss life as Competition Dancers, dancing’s physical toll on the body, and ways to improve the industry.

This episode was originally released on 04/01/24