Have you ever found yourself caught in the grip of a high-pressure work environment, dreaming of a path that aligns more closely with your core values? Sam Kwieraga, a Doctor of Physical Therapy turned entrepreneur, certainly has. Sam joins us to recount her remarkable transition from the hustle of outpatient orthopedic clinics to the birth of her business, Unleashed Athletics, a haven for former female athletes seeking a more holistic approach to wellness. Through our conversation, we uncover the difficulties Sam encountered in traditional healthcare settings and how the pandemic's sting of job loss became the catalyst for her innovative online physical therapy and coaching venture.

Navigating the terrain of online physical therapy may seem daunting, yet Sam paints a picture of the rich tapestry of benefits it offers over its traditional counterpart—daily communication with clients and a broader focus on overall wellbeing. As we delve into the nuances of form analysis and the empowerment of self-review in movement correction, you'll see how Sam's clients are reaping the rewards of this modern approach. Shifting gears, we also tackle the emotional hurdles athletes face when hanging up their competitive jerseys, discussing how Sam's unique four-phase training program aids their journey toward a new identity and rekindled passion for an active lifestyle.

In the final stretch, we zoom out to appreciate the overarching theme of athleticism in life as portrayed by Sam's philosophy. It's not just about setting records or competing; it's about preparing for life's hurdles with confidence and resilience. Wrapping up our illuminating discussion, Sam leaves us with an open invitation to join her on Instagram at DocSamFit for a treasure trove of fitness insights and an offer to engage with her directly, encouraging anyone on the path to a pain-free, empowered existence to reach out. Join us as we celebrate the confluence of physical therapy, entrepreneurship, and the unyielding spirit of athletes in every walk of life.

Instagram: @docsamfit
Wedsite: https://unleashedathletics.co/

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Are the rigorous demands of youth sports pushing our kids too hard? That's the pressing question Mike Bruno and I tackle head-on in our latest GFY podcast episode. We peel back the layers of youth athletics, starting with a deep-dive into the world of a high school swimmer whose story exemplifies the need for a diverse training regimen. We ponder the pitfalls of early sports specialization, advocating for a variety of exercise to keep our young athletes injury-free and at the top of their game. And let's not forget the lighter side of sports – hear why pickleball might just be the unexpected hero in the high-stakes world of competitive athletics.

The conversation takes a poignant turn as we confront the intense pressures that can lead to a mental health crisis, exemplified by the tragic story of a young athlete's struggle. We share personal anecdotes and professional insights to spark a candid discussion on the place of recovery and identity in the lives of these young competitors. As we navigate the moral quagmires of chiropractic practice and the divisive 'pay to play' model, we uncover the commercialized face of recovery that often overshadows the true spirit of athletic well-being.

Wrapping up, we grapple with the conundrum faced by athletes who must balance pushing their limits with the preservation of their health, illustrated by a bodybuilder's shoulder injury dilemma. We scrutinize the mental and physical trade-offs inherent in high-level sports, leaving listeners with a nuanced understanding of the athlete's journey. Finally, we reflect on the unexpected life lessons sports can teach us, ending on a note of personal growth and the power of self-discovery. So, gear up for an episode that tosses the playbook aside and gets real about the challenges and triumphs in the world of youth sports.

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Website: https://thegfypodcast.buzzsprout.com

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In this episode we are back after a long hiatus and talk about what we have been up to. We then dive into our thoughts on how to handle “nagging” injuries

Find us on the Following!
Instagram: @gfy.podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2B84NqR6XqtXWKFB0M21lA?si=00506e8ff1b34b95
Website: https://thegfypodcast.buzzsprout.com

Available on all podcast streaming sights!