Listen "Does Becoming a Physical Therapist Make 'Cents'? Ep. 3"
Episode Synopsis
In this third episode of the S2N Podcast's Return on Investment series, Richard and Ronnie dive into the key decisions new grads face when entering the profession—specifically how to choose that all-important first job and what to look for in a company if you want your career (and income) to grow.
They explore:
🎯 Why your first job doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does need to be intentional
📈 The importance of career verticality—what growth and leadership look like in private practice
🤝 What real mentorship means vs. vague promises of “working alongside” experienced PTs
📚 The value of residency programs, how they can fast-track your development (without cutting your pay), and what questions to ask about structured learning
💼 Incentive structures, productivity rewards, and understanding your earning potential beyond salary
🛠️ How to ask better questions during interviews: What does quality care mean? How do you evaluate staff? Is there upward mobility?
🔁 Why internships are extended interviews—and how they can shape your future
💡 Real-world advice on evaluating a company’s ability to invest in you, not just your ability to do the job
They also challenge myths around work-life balance, one-on-one care expectations, and offer candid takes on what “quality” in outpatient PT truly means—spoiler: your patients decide that, not just your schedule.
🎧 If you're a new grad, student, or someone considering a change in setting, this episode gives you the tools and mindset to maximize your early years in the profession. And for educators and employers? This one’s worth a listen too.
They explore:
🎯 Why your first job doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does need to be intentional
📈 The importance of career verticality—what growth and leadership look like in private practice
🤝 What real mentorship means vs. vague promises of “working alongside” experienced PTs
📚 The value of residency programs, how they can fast-track your development (without cutting your pay), and what questions to ask about structured learning
💼 Incentive structures, productivity rewards, and understanding your earning potential beyond salary
🛠️ How to ask better questions during interviews: What does quality care mean? How do you evaluate staff? Is there upward mobility?
🔁 Why internships are extended interviews—and how they can shape your future
💡 Real-world advice on evaluating a company’s ability to invest in you, not just your ability to do the job
They also challenge myths around work-life balance, one-on-one care expectations, and offer candid takes on what “quality” in outpatient PT truly means—spoiler: your patients decide that, not just your schedule.
🎧 If you're a new grad, student, or someone considering a change in setting, this episode gives you the tools and mindset to maximize your early years in the profession. And for educators and employers? This one’s worth a listen too.
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