Best Askdrchris Podcasts (2025)

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EP176: "Don't Focus On Impairments!" 18:55

15d ago18:55

18:55

Are you too focused on impairments in your physical therapy practice? In this bold and thought-provoking episode, Dr. Chris Garcia explains why Impairments Are Bull$h!t and how shifting your perspective can lead to better outcomes for your patients. Learn why focusing solely on impairments might be holding you back and discover how to prioritize fu…

1
EP175: "It's Too Expensive" 28:56

22d ago28:56

28:56

How do you handle it when a client says, “It’s too expensive”? In this episode, I dive into how to overcome cost objections and communicate the true value of your services. If you’ve struggled with price objections in your cash-based practice, this episode will give you the tools to handle these situations with confidence and turn hesitant clients …

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EP174: “Delivering BAD News To Athletes" 20:10

29d ago20:10

20:10

Delivering bad news to athletes is one of the toughest parts of being a sports physical therapist. In this episode, Dr. Chris discusses how to handle these challenging conversations with professionalism, empathy, and clarity. Whether you’re addressing career-impacting injuries or smaller hurdles, this episode provides the tools to ensure your messa…

1
EP173: "The HARD Conversation, Stop Avoiding It" 33:00

1M ago33:00

33:00

Are you avoiding tough conversations with your patients? In this episode, Dr. Chris discusses the difficult conversations with patients and why addressing them head-on is crucial for your growth and success as a physical therapist. Learn how to tackle sensitive topics like patient compliance, treatment expectations, or even difficult business decis…

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EP172: “What I Wish I Knew Before Becoming A Sports PT” 28:39

1M ago28:39

28:39

Are you considering becoming a sports physical therapist or just starting out in the field? In this podcast, I share the lessons and insights I gained throughout his journey in sports physical therapy. From managing high expectations of athletes to navigating the business side of a cash-based practice, learn what mindset shifts you need to make, an…

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EP171: "The Psychology Behind Recovery Success With Your Patients" 25:21

2M ago25:21

25:21

Do you understand the mental and emotional factors can significantly impact their rehabilitation outcomes? In this episode, Dr. Chris explains how mindset, motivation, and mental resilience play crucial roles in a patient’s recovery journey, and learn actionable strategies to help your patients stay engaged, optimistic, and committed to their progr…

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EP170: "The Worst Clinical Approach To Treating Athletes" 23:02

2M ago23:02

23:02

Are you having the correct approach to treating your athletes? Many physical therapists unknowingly fall into common pitfalls when working with athletes, often focusing on short-term fixes rather than long-term performance and recovery. In this episode, I break down why these approaches fail to meet the unique demands of athletic patients and share…

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EP169: “Patients Won’t Leave You If You Do This…” 24:35

2M ago24:35

24:35

Do you know the secret to building long-term patient loyalty as a cash-based physical therapist? This podcast dives into the strategies that keep clients coming back, even when their treatment is complete. If you’re struggling with patient retention or just want to create a clinic that thrives on loyal, returning clients, this episode is a must-lis…

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EP168: "3 Non-Negotiables Every Cash-Based PT Must Have" 21:52

3M ago21:52

21:52

In this episode, I reveal the 3 Non-Negotiables Every Cash-Based PT Must Have to build a thriving and sustainable practice. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your clinic’s success, these three foundational elements are critical to standing out in the competitive cash-based market. If you're ready to take your cash-based physica…

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EP167: “4 Ways To Retain Cash-Pay Patients” 24:08

3M ago24:08

24:08

Tired of patient no-shows or drop-offs? Before you look for more new patients, use these simple tips to retain cash-pay patients. In this episode, Dr. Chris shares four ways to retain cash-pay patients before they drop off. If you want to keep your schedule full of cash-pay patients, this episode is perfect for you. Enjoy episode 167 on the Sports …

1
EP166: “Cash PT Is Not For You If…” 22:08

4M ago22:08

22:08

Struggling to build your cash PT business? Concerned about your future in cash PT? Before you invest more money and time into your cash PT business, you need to determine if you have all of the skills necessary. In this episode, Dr. Chris provides six qualities to develop as a cash PT business owner. If you want to run a successful practice and avo…

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EP165: “I’m Stuck & I Don’t Know What To With My Patient” 22:12

4M ago22:12

22:12

Have you ever felt like you didn’t know what to do with a complex patient or surgery? You didn’t know where to start but didn't want to look incompetent so you likely “faked it until you made it.” There is a simple framework to apply with instances like this and the great news is it’s honest and genuine. In this episode, Dr. Chris outlines the exac…

1
EP164: “Insurance-Based vs Cash-Based PT - Who Wins?” 24:39

4M ago24:39

24:39

Who can get better outcomes with a cash-pay patient - an insurance-based PT or a cash-based PT? Who would win? As cash-based PT becomes more attractive due to declining insurance reimbursements and burnout, PTs are at risk of wasting years and hundreds of thousands of dollars on building a business. In this episode, Dr. Chris shares how the insuran…

1
EP163: “3 BIG Reasons Why Patients Leave You” 23:15

4M ago23:15

23:15

Wondering how to decrease the amount of drop offs from your schedule of cash-pay patients? Before you blame patients for non-compliance or seek out more skills to get better outcomes, start with these tips. In this episode, Dr. Chris shares the top three reasons WHY cash-pay patients drop off and HOW to prevent them in the future. If you want to ke…

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EP162: “5 Clinical Mistakes You’re Making As A Cash-Based PT” 19:05

5M ago19:05

19:05

Are you looking to improve your clinical approach with cash-pay patients? Before you add more tools in your clinical toolbox, start by refining these five mistakes you’re making currently. In this episode, Dr. Chris shares five simple things you should improve to quickly improve clinical outcomes, enhance the patient experience, and grow your cash …

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EP161: “Does A Sports Residency Help You In Cash-Based PT?” 30:14

5M ago30:14

30:14

Are you debating whether to complete a sports PT residency or start a cash-based PT practice? Are you stuck thinking if a residency will enhance your treatment or success in cash-pay services? After completing a sports PT residency, working in professional sports for 10 years, and scaling my cash-based PT practice to 3 locations with over 15 staff,…

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EP160: “3 Big Misconceptions About Starting A Cash PT Practice” 27:47

5M ago27:47

27:47

Have you thought about growing a cash-based PT business? Before you waste time or money, Dr. Chris gives insight into the 3 most common misconceptions about starting a cash PT practice. In this video, Dr. Chris Garcia shares 3 critical things to consider before diving further into your clinical practice. If you want to move forward with your cash-b…

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EP159: “Overcoming The Fear Of Financial Conversations With Cash-Pay Patients” 32:13

5M ago32:13

32:13

Do you have a hard time discussing money with patients? Have you ever recommended a less-than-ideal plan of care or recommendation due to fear of patients judging you? If so, you're not alone. In this video, Dr. Chris Garcia shares his secrets to success with overcoming the fear of financial conversations with cash-pay patients. If you’re a cash-ba…

1
EP158: “5 Critical Steps To Treat Cash-Pay Patients” 29:08

5M ago29:08

29:08

Are you a cash-based PT Interested in improving outcomes and growing your practice? If you approach cash-pay patients using the same outline school or insurance-based care taught you, you’re limiting your success. After growing his cash PT clinic to three locations with over 15 staff in the most expensive city in the US (San Diego, CA), Dr. Chris s…

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EP157: “4 Things Limiting Your Growth As A Sports PT” 25:34

9M ago25:34

25:34

Do you ever feel like you’re listening to podcasts and taking courses not seeing the results you want as a sports PT? In this episode, I outline four things that are limiting your professional that you haven’t considered. If you’re a sports PT and want to get unstuck or avoid it, this episode is perfect for you. Enjoy! _____________________________…

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EP156: “3 Things To Consider Before Recommending Surgery For Athletes” 26:45

10M ago26:45

26:45

Should I have surgery? This is a tough question physical therapists have to answer throughout their career. It’s not easy and there’s never one simple answer. In this episode, I outline three critical questions to answer before you answer the “surgery” question. If you’re a sports PT and want to make sure you’re offering the right advice at the rig…

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EP155: “Stem Cell Physical Therapy: Rehab Protocol & Guidelines For Recovery Post Stem Cell Injections” 1:21:29

11M ago1:21:29

1:21:29

Stem cell therapy is at the cutting edge of healthcare. A proper understanding of the procedure and rehabilitation of this unique treatment is critical to maximize patient outcomes. In this episode, I interview Lola Dranker, patient advocate, and Scotty Nelson, co-founder of Cellular Performance Institute - a global leader in stem cell and cellular…

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EP154: “From Sports PT To Healthcare Provider: The Next Generation Of Clinicians” 36:28

11M ago36:28

36:28

“There has to be something more than just doing rehab on people.” This was a statement from a sports PT I mentor regarding feeling bored at work. The greats news is…there are more opportunities. Sports PT is just the entry point to what physical therapists can do for patients. In this episode, I share four additional paths PTs can excel in to bette…

1
EP153: “3 Things To Consider Before You Give Up On The Profession Of Physical Therapy” 29:21

12M ago29:21

29:21

If you’ve thought about changing your career away from physical therapy due to burnout, productivity standards, or documentation requirements, I share three things that will help you get refocused on the career you once loved. Your passion will be reignited to help do the thing you enjoy most - helping people feel their best. In this episode, I sha…

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EP152: “When Taping & Bracing Is Essential For Injured Athletes” 34:05

12M ago34:05

34:05

“I don’t use tape or a brace on an injured athlete.” This is a common response I hear from sports PTs. However, there are situations where it’s been shown that bracing and taping is effective for both pain relief and objective outcomes. In this episode, I share the exact outline and timeline of when you should consider using taping or bracing with …

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EP151: “What Every Sports PT Should Be Doing At The Start Of 2024” 33:27

1y ago33:27

33:27

Do you ever find yourself stuck in the same rut year after year? You’re taking CEU courses, listening to podcasts, and watching videos on YouTube…but you’re still not where you want to be professionally. In this episode, I share how to get unstuck and finally grow in 2024 by outlining the year in four simple categories. If you’re a sports PT and to…

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EP150: “How I Fast-Tracked My Way Into Pro Sports… & How You Can Too” 45:35

1y ago45:35

45:35

“I want to work in pro sports but don’t know where to start. What do you recommend?” This is a question I received from a sports PT. In this episode, I share my journey and path to working in pro sports within three years of graduating PT school and how you can do the same. If you’re a sports PT and aspire to work in an elite level environment, thi…

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EP149: “Sacroiliac Joint Pain Clinical Pearls & Rehab Strategies For The Sports PT” 46:01

1y ago46:01

46:01

What do you do to manage chronic or stubborn SIJ pain in athletes? In this episode, I share my personal framework and rehab approach to help you navigate tough cases in the clinic. If you’re a sports PT and want the confidence to manage even the most complex SIJ pain case, this episode is perfect for you. Enjoy! ____________________________________…

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EP148: “How To Make The Most Complex Patient Case Simple In 3 Steps.” 37:37

1y ago37:37

37:37

Do you struggle managing complex chronic back, shoulder, or knee pain cases? Do you want to learn an easy way to approach these cases? In this episode, I share my 3-step process to approach complex cases. If you’re a sports PT and want improve outcomes with ease, you need to tune into this episode. Enjoy! _____________________________________ Are y…

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EP147: “If I Had To Start All Over, This Is What I Would Do As A Sports PT” 38:13

1y ago38:13

38:13

My path along sports PT has been unique. I completed a sports residency, worked in professional sports, supported NFL combine training, traveled the world as a concierge PT for pro athletes, helped started a DPT program in San Diego, and built a multi-location cash-based PT company. In this episode, I share my story and what I would do if I had to …

1
EP146: “The Link Between Cancer & Sports PT” 38:01

1y ago38:01

38:01

Have you ever wanted to help a patient beyond their current goals but didn’t know what to say or how to do it? In this episode, I share a story of helping someone with cancer and what sports PTs can apply in the clinic. If you’re a sports PT and want to help athletes at all levels, you need to tune into this episode. Enjoy! ________________________…

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EP145: “What You’re Doing In The Clinic Is Not Working & Here’s What To Do To Fix It” 35:25

1y ago35:25

35:25

Have you ever felt like your outcomes don’t match your effort in the clinic? You’re working hard, researching articles, and listening to podcasts, but you feel like you’re going in circles. In this episode, I share the downward spiral that most sports PTs face in their career. If you’re a sports PT and want to ensure you’re on the right track, you …

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EP144: “Chronic Low Back Pain In Athletes: What You’re Missing & How To Manage” 39:31

1y ago39:31

39:31

Do you struggle to manage chronic low back pain? Do you get stuck trying to find the next best exercise or manual therapy technique after exhausting your current toolbox? In this episode, I share my step-by-step framework to conquer back pain in athletes who’ve failed various conservative treatments. If you’re a sports PT and want to ensure you’re …

1
EP143: “The Uncertainty Of The PT Profession And What You Can Control” 33:30

1y ago33:30

33:30

Have you felt lost in your path as a PT or wondered what your next step is? Are you uncertain about your future as a PT and want to know what’s possible to reignite your passion for the profession? In this episode, I outline what lies ahead in the PT profession and simple things you can do to be in control of your own journey. If you’re a sports PT…

1
EP142: “How To Put It Together When Managing Athlete Care” 40:42

1y ago40:42

40:42

Do you struggle with higher level athletes or active patients? Do you get stuck trying create better exercises or knowing when to push them harder without risk of re-injury? In this episode, I outline a simple framework to use with athletes to help you make the complex cases simple. If you’re a sports PT and want to work , you need to tune into thi…

1
EP141: “Helping Athletes Return To Sport Before They’re Ready” 28:30

1y ago28:30

28:30

What do you do when you have an athlete who wants to go to back to sport but is not ready? What’s the best way to approach their progression and how do you outline it to the athlete? In this episode, I share three tips to outline a return to sport progression in non-ideal recovery timelines. If you’re a sports PT and want to ensure athletes are saf…

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EP140: “Overly Confident & Underprepared - The Thing You’re Missing In Your Clinical Approach” 30:46

1y ago30:46

30:46

Do you struggle to get things done because you want to make it “perfect?” Maybe you haven’t created the strength and conditioning program or protocol that you’ve been meaning to because you haven’t had time. This is normal for people who need to be “over-prepared” before they make a decision and leads to slow professional growth. In this episode, I…

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EP139: “The Make It Or Break It Point In Your Career” 37:01

1y ago37:01

37:01

Sports PT will often blame poor outcomes on “bad patients” or poor job satisfaction on a “bad job,” but it’s because they haven’t hit a “make it or break it point” to help them see the root challenge. In this episode, I share how to overcome these challenges and reignite that passion you once had in PT school or early in your career. If you’re a sp…

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EP138: “Using Storytelling To Get Athlete Buy-In With Your Plan Of Care” 28:32

1+ y ago28:32

28:32

If you’re burnt out, have an empty schedule, or questioning your passion for treating, you might be missing one simple thing on the initial evaluation that could reignite your passion. In this episode, I share how and when to include storytelling in your initial evaluation and how this will significantly impact your outcomes. If you’re a sports PT …

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EP137: “3 Things Every CrossFit Coach Wants To Know About Their Injured Athlete” 41:06

1+ y ago41:06

41:06

Have you ever wanted to reach out to a CrossFit coach or fitness professional about a shared injured patient but didn’t know what to recommend or how to reach out? There are three simple things every coach wants to know that every sports PT shoulder deliver. In this episode, I share what and how to collaborate with local fitness coaches in your com…

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EP136: “Why Barbell Athletes Are Different” 25:21

1+ y ago25:21

25:21

Do you work with or want to work with CrossFitters, powerlifters, and Olympic weightlifters? Do you struggle to get these athletes out of pain and back in the gym? In this episode, I share why barbell athletes require a different approach clinically and how you can make small adjustments in your practice. If you’re a sports PT and want to maximize …

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EP135: “When Joint Manipulation Goes Wrong: 3 Pro Athlete Case Studies” 31:15

1+ y ago31:15

31:15

Have you ever questioned if you should or should not perform a grade 5 joint mobilization on a patient? If so, you need to hear my three case studies to learn when to NOT perform these techniques on athletes. In this episode, I share case studies of pro athletes who were injured with grade 5 mobilizations. If you’re a sports PT and want to ensure y…

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EP134: “Staying Focused In Your Career & Away From Shiny Object Syndrome” 29:03

1+ y ago29:03

29:03

Do you feel frustrated that despite all the exercises and tips you learn on podcasts and social media, you’re not progressing in your career path? You’re trying everything everyone tells you but you’re stuck in the same place. In this episode, I share how to stay on a consistent path to the career you’ve always dreamed of and away from “shiny objec…

1
EP133: “Treating Athletes 5-7 Days Per Week: Challenges & Opportunities” 17:34

1+ y ago17:34

17:34

What would you do if an athlete asked to see you 5-7 days per week? Would you tell them they don’t need PT that many days or take on the challenge? In this episode, I share my experience working in pro sports managing athletes 7 days per week and what you can apply inside your clinic with the athletes in your community. If you’re a sports PT and wa…

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EP132: “Where The Specialty Of Sports PT Is Getting Stuck” 33:32

1+ y ago33:32

33:32

The speciality of Sports PT will hit a roadblock over the next few years…and it will affect what types of active patients you will be able to see. In this episode, I share how sports PT will be stuck in professional opportunities and how you can avoid it at all costs. If you’re a sports PT and want to ensure you’re on the right path, you need to tu…

1
EP131: “Back Pain Treatment: What You’re Missing & What To Look For” 29:48

1+ y ago29:48

29:48

Do you struggle to treat back pain? Do you feel lost and don’t know where to start? In this episode, I share how to confidently approach back pain as soon as the initial evaluation. If you’re a sports PT and want to ensure you’re on the right path with low back pain, you need to tune into this episode. Enjoy! _____________________________________ A…

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EP130: “3 Tips To Know Which Patients To Push And When” 28:23

1+ y ago28:23

28:23

Do you ever feel like you give 100% of your energy and effort to patients but their outcomes and compliance don’t match what you put in? In this episode, I share an easy outline too determine which patients to push and apply more effort and when to . If you’re a sports PT and you want to thrive in your professional career, you need to tune into thi…

1
EP129: “PT Burnout: Why It Happens & How To Avoid it” 45:47

1+ y ago45:47

45:47

PT burnout is common at years 3, 5, 8, and 10. There are a series of events that lead to burnout and many of these can be easily avoided. In this episode , I share why burnout happens and a step-by-step approach to avoid it. If you’re a sports PT and you want to thrive in your professional career, you need to tune into this episode. Enjoy! ________…

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EP128: “3 Tips To Improve Your Evaluation Of Athletes” 30:15

1+ y ago30:15

30:15

Are you looking for ways to improve your evaluation of athletes? What are 2-3 things you can add that can make a big difference in your clinical approach? In this episode, I share 3 easy tips to include within your framework to gain buy-in from your athletes. If you’re a sports PT and you want to maximize your outcomes, you need to tune into this e…

1
EP127: “How To Transition Athletes Into Wellness Programs” 30:38

1+ y ago30:38

30:38

Physical therapists want to help athletes with wellness programs but often don’t know where to start or what to do. In this episode, I share how to successfully offer wellness programs for athletes who need support with performance programs and more. If you’re a sports PT and you want to take rehab with your athletes to the next level, you need to …

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