Explore every episode of the podcast RT Sidebar

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Meet Christian, one of the contestants taking on The Shift.

Who’s the first person you call when you find out you made it onto the competition? For Christian, there was no hesitation. His program director, Michael Sheahan, was the first to know.

Forget the student-professor relationship. Apparently, we’ve got a full-on bromance happening over here.

Get to know Christian as we get ready to see what he brings to The Shift.

#TheShift #RTSidebar #Podcast #Medical #MedicalPodcast #BTS

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🎙️ RT Sidebar Show Notes

This week on #RTSidebar, we’re hanging out with Mack from Respiratory—an RT influencer who’s using social media to connect, create, and open doors for respiratory therapists.

Mack shares the story behind building a presence online, what it’s really like creating content as an RT, and how social media can become more than just a place to scroll—it can be a way to network, collaborate, learn, and find new opportunities.

We talk about the power of putting yourself out there, connecting with other RTs,  and turning relationships made online into real-world opportunities.

From content creation and collaborations to the importance of supporting other RT creators, this conversation is all about what can happen when RTs start using their voices and platforms to build something bigger than themselves.

Whether you’re already creating content, thinking about starting, or just wondering what all the RT social-media hype is about, there’s something here for you.

Create. Connect. Collaborate.

#rrt.daily #RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy

@RTSidebar @rrt.daily @mindyconklin @jjthert

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Meet Carlos, one of the contestants taking on The Shift.

When you get the call that you made it onto the competition, who’s the first person you tell? For Carlos, it was his girlfriend.

Her first reaction? “You’re on WHAT?” Because let’s be fair, a respiratory care reality show isn’t exactly something you hear about every day.

A few YouTube links later, the confusion turned into, “Okay, this is actually pretty cool.”

Sometimes your biggest supporters just need a little context first.

Get to know Carlos as we get ready to see what he brings to The Shift.

#TheShift #RTSidebar #Podcast #Medical #MedicalPodcast #BTS

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Meet Alex, one of the contestants taking on The Shift.

“What are you grateful for today?”

It’s a simple question, but for Alex, the answer carries a lot of weight. He worked hard and struggled to get to this moment, all while having no idea what the outcome would be.

Sometimes gratitude isn’t about knowing how it all turns out. It’s being grateful you made it to the moment you worked so hard for.

Get to know Alex as we get ready to see what he brings to The Shift.

#TheShift #RTSidebar #Podcast #Medical #MedicalPodcast #BTS

ADD SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES HERE (LINKEDIN, FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, TIKTOK, X)

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On this episode of RT Sidebar, Dr. Jose Rojas of UTMB is planning for a Doctorate degree program and JJ needs some learning!  JJ asks what it takes to create a program at this level and what it can do for the field of Respiratory Care.  Dr. Rojas is the GOAT and JJ is a "kid".  Get it!  Check out #RTSidebar! Stay Tuned.

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The future of the Advanced Practice Respiratory Therapist (APRT) is brighter than ever! This week on RT Sidebar, Mindy, JJ, and Matty P welcome Drs. Sarah Varekojis and David Vines for an inspiring conversation about carrying the APRT vision forward and what it will take to continue advancing the profession.

From leadership and advocacy to education and expanding opportunities for respiratory therapists, this episode explores the next chapter of the APRT movement. If you're passionate about the future of respiratory care and the evolution of the profession, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

The vision doesn't end—it evolves. Join us as we discuss what's next for APRTs and the future of respiratory care. 🎙️💨

#RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #APRT #Leadership #RespiratoryCare #FutureOfRT #Barflies #StayTuned

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🎙️ RT Sidebar Show Notes

Terri Miller returns to RT Sidebar for an inspiring conversation about building the future of respiratory care. From the incredible impact of HOSA in introducing students to healthcare careers to innovative strategies for recruiting and mentoring the next generation of respiratory therapists, Terri shares why investing in students today is essential for the profession tomorrow.

Join Mindy, & JJ, as they discuss workforce development, leadership, and how every RT can play a role in inspiring future clinicians. Whether you're an educator, manager, student, or bedside therapist, this episode is full of practical ideas and optimism for the future of respiratory care.

The future of our profession starts with the students we inspire today. 🎙️💙

#RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #HOSA #FutureRTs #WorkforceDevelopment #Leadership #Barflies

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🎙️ RT Sidebar Show Notes

Live from the California Society for Respiratory Care (CSRC), the Let's Get Ethical crew joins Mindy Conklin and Matty P for another lively conversation—this time with special guest, the one and only Dr. JB.

From thought-provoking ethical dilemmas to leadership, clinical practice, and plenty of laughs along the way, this episode is packed with the candid conversations and friendly banter that RT Sidebar listeners love. Whether you're looking to sharpen your perspective or just enjoy hanging out with some of respiratory care's favorite voices, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Grab your favorite beverage, Barflies—it's time for another great conversation on RT Sidebar! 🍻🎙️

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When I look at the Mayo Clinic situation, one question keeps coming to mind:

Was this truly a financial decision, a staffing decision, or something else entirely?

I don't have the answer.

But I do think it's a conversation worth having.  Check out part 2 of RT Sidebar.  #Stay Tuned

#RespiratoryTherapy #RTSidebar #HealthcareLeadership #CriticalCare #HealthcareWorkforce

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This wasn't an episode I expected to record.

When news broke that Mayo Clinic would be removing overnight bedside respiratory therapists from several facilities, I had an emotional reaction. I'll admit it.

As someone who has spent years advocating for respiratory therapy, it felt personal.

But after sitting with it, I realized what bothered me most wasn't the decision itself. It was what the decision represents.

Respiratory therapists bring a unique skill set to the bedside. We see things differently. We assess differently. We often recognize problems before they become emergencies.

Most of the time, that expertise may never be needed.

But when it is needed, it matters.

That's the part that concerns me. Not the routine nights. Not the quiet shifts. The one patient who suddenly decompensates. The one emergency that requires someone who understands respiratory care at a deeper level.

That's what I believe may be missing from this conversation.

I'd love to hear your thoughts. What role do you think bedside respiratory therapists play in patient care?

#RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #CriticalCare #HealthcareLeadership #PatientSafety #RespiratoryCare

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On this episode of #RT Sidebar, @Mindy Conklin sits down with good Barfly friends Allie and Amanda for a conversation that goes everywhere—in the best way possible. From leadership and clinical practice to career journeys, life lessons, and plenty of laughs, nothing is off limits when these three get together.

It’s honest, fun, insightful, and exactly the kind of conversation that reminds us why the RT community is so special. Grab a drink and hang out with the girls on this latest episode of #RT Sidebar. #Stay Tuned #Girl Talk #Barflies #RT #Friendship

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🎙️ RT Sidebar – Episode 102

Sometimes the best episodes are just friends hanging out and talking RT.

In Episode 102, Mindy, JJ, and Matty P sit down together for an honest conversation about respiratory therapy, their careers, the highlights, the lowlights, and the moments that shaped who they are today. From laughs to lessons learned, this episode gives listeners a more personal look at the hosts behind the microphones.

#RTSidebar #Episode102 #RespiratoryTherapy #Barflies #RTLife #HealthcareLeadership

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🎙️ RT Sidebar – Episode 101: The Q&A Continues

The conversation isn’t over… it’s just getting started.

Episode 101 brings you Part Two from our 100th episode celebration at the Montana Society for Respiratory Care—a live Q&A session with JJ, Mindy, and Matty P. Real questions, real answers, and the kind of unfiltered discussion you’ve come to expect from RT Sidebar.

If you loved Episode 100, you won’t want to miss what comes next.

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🎙️ RT Sidebar – Episode 100 🎉

100 episodes. Countless conversations. One incredible community.

From bedside insights to big-picture debates, RT Sidebar has been all about elevating respiratory care—and we’re just getting started. This milestone episode is a celebration of the journey, the guests, and the Barflies who made it all possible.

Join us for Episode 100 as we reflect, laugh, and look ahead to what’s next.

🗓️ April 16th | 4 PM EDT

Let’s make this one big.

#RTSidebar #Episode100 #RespiratoryTherapy #Barflies #HealthcareLeadership #StayTuned

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On this episode of RT Sidebar, America's RT Sweetheart Mindy Conklin and Matty P dive into the evolution of the APRT and the growing momentum behind compact licensure in respiratory care. From expanding scope of practice to increasing mobility for therapists, they tell you everything you need to know!

Plus, the countdown is on—Episode 100 is right around the corner. Don’t miss this conversation as we look ahead to what’s next for RTs everywhere.  April 16, 2026

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The countdown is here!  Let's go!

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🔥 RT Sidebar Show Notes 🔥

This is what JJ and Matty P do every week… #RTNerds #SavingTheWorld 😄

From PICS to vent checks, from patients first to practicing at the top of our license—nothing is off limits. Big questions, real conversations, and a few laughs along the way.

Can we save U.S. healthcare? Maybe not alone… but we’re definitely going to talk about it. 👀👇

#RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #CriticalCare #TopOfLicense #PatientsFirst #HealthcareLeadership

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RT Sidebar Show Notes

On this episode of RT Sidebar, we’re joined by Mike Nay for an inside look at what it really means to be a director in respiratory care. From staffing and strategy to tough decisions and team development, Mike pulls back the curtain on the depth and breadth of leadership behind the scenes.

This conversation is a must-listen for therapists at every level—whether you’re considering leadership or just want a better understanding of the challenges and responsibilities your managers navigate every day. Insightful, honest, and relatable, this episode bridges the gap between the bedside and the boardroom.

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RT Sidebar Show Notes

On this episode of #RTSidebar, @Mindy Conklin and @JJ Valdez are joined by special guest host @Kali Dayton from #AwakeAndWalking ICU for a lively catch-up on all the exciting work happening in the movement to transform ICU culture. From early mobility to keeping patients awake, engaged, and walking! The conversation dives into the progress, the pushback, and the wins along the way.

Expect a lot of inspiration for respiratory therapists and ICU teams looking to shake things up. If you care about better patient experiences and moving critical care forward—this is an episode you won’t want to miss. #WalkingHomefromtheICU #RT #empowerment #patientcare #StayTuned

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RT Sidebar – Snow Day Edition ❄️

It’s a Snow Day! On this episode of RT Sidebar, we’re joined by our friends Rob and Mike from Let’s Get Ethical to tackle a topic every hospital and respiratory therapist knows all too well—snow days.

From staffing challenges and patient safety to communication breakdowns and ethical decision-making, we dig into how hospitals and RT departments can better prepare, respond, and lead when the weather turns wild. Practical insights, real talk, and a few cold-weather lessons you won’t want to miss.

Bundle up and stay tuned.

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RT Sidebar Show Notes

In this special RT Sidebar episode, the hosts step aside as their spouses—Heather, Jason, and Alicia—take over the microphones for a heartfelt and honest conversation about love, life, and respiratory therapy. From long shifts and late nights to shared sacrifices and unwavering support, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly means to love someone in the respiratory profession.

Warm, real, and occasionally hilarious, this episode is a reminder that respiratory care doesn’t just impact patients—it shapes families too.

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RT Sidebar Show Notes

In this episode of RT Sidebar, Mindy, JJ, and Matty P sit down with Sarah Sitar, Season 1 winner of The Shift, for a candid conversation that goes beyond what viewers saw on screen. Sarah shares behind-the-scenes insights, real-world lessons, and what the experience revealed about leadership, teamwork, and resilience in healthcare.

The discussion highlights why not just the winner—but every cast member—represents the kind of talent hospitals should be eager to hire. Honest, engaging, and inspiring, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of respiratory care.

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In this intimate and powerful episode of RT Sidebar, Mindy Conklin sits down with Elthea Notah for a deeply personal conversation about the realities facing Native American hospitals. Speaking both as a respiratory therapist and as a daughter, Elthea shares firsthand insight into the systemic challenges, resource limitations, and emotional toll experienced by patients, families, and clinicians serving Indigenous communities.

This episode moves beyond statistics, offering a human perspective on access to care, resilience, and the dedication of healthcare professionals working in often overlooked settings. It is a thoughtful and honest dialogue that invites listeners to reflect, learn, and better understand the lived experiences behind the care provided in Native American healthcare systems.

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As the year comes to a close, RT Sidebar pauses to reflect, give thanks, and celebrate the people who make this community so special. This Holiday Edition is about gratitude—for the respiratory therapists who show up every shift, the guests who shared their stories, and the listeners who continue to support and inspire us.

This season reminds us that respiratory care is more than a profession—it’s a calling rooted in compassion, resilience, and service. Whether you’re at the bedside, teaching the next generation, or taking a well-earned moment to rest, we see you and appreciate you.

From our RT Sidebar family to yours, we wish you peace, rest, and connection this holiday season. Thank you for being part of our journey.

Stay Tuned for an exciting start to season 4: @AltheaNotah and Season 1 winner of “The Shift” @Sarah Sitar will kick off the year!

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Nicola just completed an outstanding respiratory therapy residency program in Houston, Texas. As a brand-new RT, she’s thriving—earning specialty credentials and building confidence thanks to phenomenal support throughout her training. In this episode, @Mindy Conklin   and  @MatthewPavlichko  dive into her inspiring journey, how the residency shaped her skills, and what it takes to succeed as a new therapist in today’s healthcare environment.

Special shout-out to Nicola’s mom for being her biggest cheerleader along the way!

Tune in to hear Nicola’s story and learn why structured residency programs can make all the difference for respiratory therapists starting their careers.

#rtsidebar #MomRT #Residency #respiratorytherapy #AARC2025

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Barflies asked, and we delivered! The most requested guest joins us for an unforgettable conversation. @Heather Pavlichko (the real RT in the Pavlichko house) brings her expertise and energy to the mic as we dive into some of the hottest topics in respiratory care and beyond.

Heather’s insights are practical, forward-thinking, and sprinkled with humor. Whether you’re a clinician, educator, or just curious about the future of critical care, this episode is packed with value.  @JJtheRT and @MindyConklin had way too much fun in this episode.  Enjoy the Ultimate Gift for Thanksgiving!  #RTSidebar #Thanksgiving #RTFamily #RenLynn #BeAnOrganDonor #PEEPs

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Veterans and RTs aren’t that different — both answer the call when things get tough.  Both stand strong under pressure, serve with purpose, and fight to protect lives.

This Veteran's/Remembrance Day, #RTSidebar honors those who’ve served — in uniform and in care. 🌺

#VeteransDay #RemembranceDay #RTSidebar #WeAreRT #LestWeForget #RespiratoryTherapy

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This week on RT Sidebar, Matty P hangs out with Mike Sheahan and Rob Fishwick — two legends who prove that great careers are built on hard work, good people, and the occasional questionable decision. 😄

They talk shop about networking, finding your “why,” and doing work that actually matters (with a few laughs along the way). Plus, get a sneak peek at “Let’s Get Ethical,” dropping in 2026 — because who doesn’t love a little ethics with their RT banter?

Grab your coffee, your stethoscope, and your sense of humor — this episode is one you don’t want to miss.

#RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #Networking #CareerGoals #LetsGetEthical2026 #RespiratoryCare #BreatheEasy

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Happy Respiratory Care Week from RT Sidebar! 🎉 This week, we’re celebrating the profession, the passion, and the people who make every shift count. Joining us is Respiratory Coach, a voice for RTs everywhere who brings humor, honesty, and heart to the conversation.

Together, we dive into The Shift — The 1st RT Student Reality show.  Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/@RespiratoryCoach

#RTSidebar #RespiratoryCareWeek #RespiratoryCoach #TheShift #WeAreRT #RespiratoryTherapy

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In this episode of RT Sidebar, Matty P hosts a sit down with Mike Sheahan and Rob Fishwick for a candid and thought-provoking conversation on ethics in respiratory care. From real-world dilemmas at the bedside to the gray areas that challenge our professional judgment, this episode dives deep into what it means to “do the right thing” when the path isn’t always clear.

Mike and Rob share their experiences, insights, and practical approaches to maintaining integrity in complex clinical environments—reminding us that ethics isn’t just a policy, it’s a daily practice.

Join us for an engaging discussion that blends wisdom, humor, and heart. Tune in, reflect, and rethink how ethical decision-making shapes the future of our profession.

#RTSidebar #RespiratoryTherapy #LetsGetEthical 

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It’s International Podcast Day, and what better way to celebrate than by looking back at the summer on RT Sidebar! ☀️ From big laughs to deep dives, this season has been packed with memorable conversations, inspiring guests, and audience favorites that had us all talking.

Join the crew as they recap the highlights of the summer—your top episodes, behind-the-scenes stories, and the moments that reminded us why this community is so special. Whether you’re new to the podcast or a longtime barfly, this rewind is the perfect way to catch up, reflect, and get excited for what’s ahead.

Raise a glass with us on International Podcast Day and relive the best of summer with RT Sidebar! 🎙️ #RTSidebar #InternationalPodcastDay

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Leaves are changing, kids are back in school (and sniffling), which means it’s officially time for Fall barflies! 🍂 Mindy, JJ, and I wrapped up an amazing (and exhausting) summer, but now it’s all about pumpkin lattes and fresh conversations.

We’re kicking off the season with a guest we’ve had our eye on for a while—Dr. Brian Walsh. Brian is not only a friend, colleague, and innovator in respiratory care, but also the proud husband of Meliza (#justsaying). In this episode, Brian and JJ dive into lung ultrasound, EIT, and the future of respiratory therapy. Are we stepping into radiology—or redefining it?

Don’t miss this amazing episode of #RTSidebar. #StayTuned!

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On this episode of RT Sidebar, I sit down with Mallory and Ryan to dive into an exciting story of hospital transport that kept us all on the edge of our seats. We also get into their experiences with the Emerging Leaders Program at the AARC, where they share fresh insights on growth, mentorship, and the future of respiratory care leadership. It’s a conversation full of energy, real-world lessons, and a look at how the next generation of RTs are shaping the profession. 

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“We’re not in the vent business. We’re in the people business. Every patient, every student, every new grad—this is about them." - Dr. Nick Prush.  This quote hit us hard.  It's not just a leadership philosophy, he backed it up.  Here how Dr. Nick changed University of Michigan culture with students and therapists. He filled 22 open positions in 9 months and has 0 vacancies.
This is RT Sidebar!  Stay Tuned!

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RT Sidebar golf clap is required for this episode.  Our very distinguished Madam President @Dana Evans is with us!  We talk RT, we talk professional development, we nerd it out!!!!!!!!!!  Learn about the AARC, its impact on our profession, and what the future has in store.  A great episode with a great leader! 

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BARFLIES!  This is an episode you don't wanna miss.  We're diving into the real impact of mentorship, hustle, and how @Meliza Walsh, the @TSRC,  and the @HOSA team are helping to shape the next generation of RTs.  This episode has heart, purpose, and some serious talk.  Plus a in person shout out you can't miss.  #StayTuned #RT #HOSA #mentorship

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Today is the start of Summer Forum!!!! Insert Barfly Clap.  Summer Forum is an annual opportunity for RT Educators and RT Leaders to come together for a mutual purpose.  That purpose, ensuring the Respiratory Therapy profession strives in the future, and that future starts with our new RTs.  The success of new grads directly impacts your local hospital and our profession.  @Jessica Patel and @Anna Dunahoe from @Memorial Hermann describe their RT Residency program and its success in making new grads, future leaders.  #RTResidency #NewGrads #RTSidebar #StayTuned

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As we prepare for Summer Forum, JJ, Mindy, and I wanted to give you a little snack for all the educators and students out there.  For all the "Baby RTs" out there, your best friend Joe Lewis, aka "Respiratory Coach" is on the show!  We all love Joe and he elevates all of us.  Thank you Joe and see you in Florida!  #SummerForum, #BabyRTs, #Educate, #RTs, #AARC, #RTSidebar, #StayTuned

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CEO of the NBRC and Queen Barfly, Lori Tinkler joins the show! "Live with Lori" is a  recurring episode on JJtheRT  https://www.instagram.com/jjthert_/ , and she always delivers!  Check out the updates from the NBRC that affect you.  Stay Tuned!

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Chrysalis Ashton is our "Home girl"!  She gives us the facts on home care, reminds us relationships matter, and spills the beans on AARC's Emerging Leaders program.  Plus, Matty P remembered to hit record this time.  Check out this amazing leader!  Stay Tuned... 

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We all have a BFF at work.  Those that get us, keep us out of trouble, and those we "Vent" to.  Not a ventilator!  Your "Vent Buddy"!  Meet Susan and Megan, OG Vent Buddies who tell us their story, while JJ and Matty P remember when they became vent buddies.  Make sure you shout out your vent buddy!  https://forms.office.com/r/Gb2wZLqkWe

#RTSidebar #Ventbuddy #RT

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This episode is bonkers!!!!  Actor, comedian, OT student, and RT family member, Cody discusses his journey with acute guillain-barré syndrome.  His mom is a RT, Mindy was his RT, this gets real.  #Bipapsux. This is a must listen episode.  #Barlflylove #Mindy'sfirstHost!  xoxoxoxoxoxoxo

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Hey Barflies!  Did you know Nitric Oxide comes from Lightning?!  You had me at Lightning!  Check out this electrifying episode of RT Sidebar...Stay Tuned!

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Do you sometimes feel stuck as a RT?  Mindless treatments and vent checks?  There are other avenues that are cool (and gross).  Interventional Pulmonology is just that.  Learn about the world of IP, it is fascinating and gross, just like we like it!  Stay Tuned...

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Has "Feedback" from your boss felt personal?  Does it feel like going to the principles office?  Feedback can be a curse, but when done well by a true leader, it can be the greatest gift you receive professionally.  Join us with Amanda Nickle and Katlyn Burr to discuss giving and receiving feedback.  This episode could change your career!  Stay Tuned!

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Being a respiratory therapist is tough!  Being the first respiratory therapist in your country, a tad more challenging ;P.  Meet Moaaz, one of the first RTs in Egypt.  He made his dreams come true.  Now he's making the dreams of new RTs in Egypt come true!  He is a Champion, He Empowers, and He Influences.  Like all RTs!

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 All right, everyone, RT sidebar, it's time as always. I got my great friends here, Mindy, APRT, Conklin, and JJ, the RT, very excited to have you both here today, because I want to give our audience a little peek behind RT's sidebar curtain.

What's in store for 2025.  Find out in this episode of RT Sidebar...Stay Tuned!

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The Physician-Patient Alliance for Health and Safety is a remarkable organization.  Check out this episode of #RTSidebar where our guest Michael Wong discusses Advocacy, Safety, Trust, and Influence!  RTs are experts in all 4.  Use your voice for your patients!

ppahs.org

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RT Sidebar is going back to high school!  More specifically, my friend, Mr. Braglio's class.  I had a chance to talk to high school students about podcasting and my journey in becoming a Respiratory Influencer.  That feels weird to say.  Check out this special episode...Stay Tuned!  

Check out the video on https://www.youtube.com/@vapotherm9743/videos

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Hear from Ben and Phoebe on the UK's healthcare system, how to lead culture change, and what a day in the life looks like for a physio.
Thank you for coming on the show!

Show Notes: 
Join our LinkedIn group - www.vtherm.com/rtsidebar-linkedin and be a part of the community.

Do you know of an RT who deserves a shoutout on the pod?  Perhaps a promotion, birthday, or anniversary worth celebrating?  We got a form for that too!  https://forms.office.com/r/Gb2wZLqkWe