O&P Rising

In this episode, guest host Julia Pines, certified orthotist and board-eligible prosthetist at OrthoPediatrics Specialty Bracing in Boston, sits down with Kiley Armstrong, MPO, CPO, research prosthetist-orthotist at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, for part two of the O&P Career Pathways series. Together, they explore the research pathway in orthotics and prosthetics—what it looks like, how to pursue it, and why it matters. Kiley reflects on her early exposure to the field, her foundation in biomedical engineering, and the moments that sparked her passion for research. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at the daily life of a research prosthetist-orthotist, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the work, the milestones that shape a research career, and the blend of curiosity and persistence it requires. O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Avery-Claire Littleton, resident prosthetist/orthotist at ForMotion Clinic in Alabama, kicks off a four-part O&P Career Pathways series with Trey Cimorelli, CPO at Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics in New Hampshire. Trey shares his journey from shadowing a local prosthetist to becoming a certified clinician, including his education at the University of Washington and dual residencies in orthotics and prosthetics. He offers an inside look at the daily responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of clinical practice—highlighting the value of patient relationships, lifelong learning, and adaptability. Trey also discusses his interest in incorporating video-based gait analysis, the role of active listening, and why problem-solving skills are essential in this evolving profession. O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Hannah Perkins, resident prosthetist/orthotist at Macy O&P in Guilford, Connecticut, talks with Stephen Charry, CPO, FAAOP, assistant professor at the University of Hartford, about building and using a diagnostic toolbox in the O&P profession. Together, they explore essential tools such as patient history, physical assessments, and outcome measures, and why this toolbox should always evolve. The conversation also dives into the value of mentorship, hands-on learning, and lifelong education, while addressing common challenges clinicians face. Listeners will walk away with practical insights on collaboration, reflection, and strategies to deliver truly personalized, high-quality care.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Anna Cook, a board-eligible prosthetist orthotist at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare in St. Paul, Minnesota, sits down with Chris Robinson, MS, MBA, CPO, ATC, FAAOP(D), clinical resource director for the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE). Together, they explore the newly introduced competency-based residency standards and what they mean for the future of O&P education. Robinson outlines the structure of the new model, its alignment with modern clinical practice, and the flexible implementation timeline. Key updates include the integration of orthotic and prosthetic disciplines, a stronger focus on professional competencies such as communication and clinical decision-making, and pathways for early adoption. The episode also highlights benefits for research track residents and reduced post-certification requirements for mentors and residency directors.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Molly Winget, CO and prosthetic resident at Boston O&P, talks with Chelsey Anderson, Pediatrics Research Fellow at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, about the critical role of shared decision making in prosthetic and orthotic care. They explore the difference between simply offering choices and genuinely involving patients and families in the care process. The conversation also highlights the value of evidence-based practice and offers practical tips for new clinicians to incorporate shared decision making, even when facing time pressures or limited experience.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Caitlin Peters, CPO, a board-certified prosthetist and orthotic resident at Shriners Hospital for Children in Greenville, SC, sits down with Shree Thaker, Director of Communications and Partnerships at the Amputee Coalition. Together, they explore the Coalition’s powerful evolution—from a grassroots peer support group to a national organization offering robust resources like virtual support groups, youth camps, educational materials, and advocacy initiatives such as So Everybody Can Move. Shree shares how the organization empowers individuals with limb loss and limb difference through free, accessible programming and how professionals and community members can get involved in advancing the Coalition’s mission.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode of O&P Rising, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Abbey Senczyszyn, CPO, of Bremer Prosthetic Design, chats with Adrienne Hill, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, program director of Kennesaw State's O&P Master's Program. Together, they explore the vital role of mentorship, personal branding, and networking in shaping successful careers in the O&P profession. Adrienne shares personal stories and practical advice for emerging professionals, emphasizing the value of authentic connections, empathy, and the give-and-take of mentor-mentee relationships. The conversation also delves into how professionals can balance introverted and extroverted traits to communicate effectively and thrive in a people-focused profession.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode of O&P Rising, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Kaleigh Neely, CPO, chats with Sheryl Sachs, CPO, of Dankmeyer Prosthetics & Orthotics. They explore the critical role of advocacy in the O&P profession, Sheryl’s journey into policy work, and why young professionals should get involved. The conversation also highlights the importance of research, collaboration, and legislative efforts to shape the future of the profession.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, guest host Denise Hull, CPO, a newly certified prosthetist/orthotist at Wheeler O&P, chats with Gerry Stark, PhD, CPO/L, FAAOP(D), director of clinical and technical operations for BionIT Labs and president-elect of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists. With over 30 years in the field, Gerry shares invaluable insights on mentorship, professional development, and navigating a purposeful career in O&P. He reflects on the evolution of the Academy, the power of networking, and the importance of embracing innovation. The conversation also explores how early-career clinicians can engage with professional societies, adopt emerging technologies, and set meaningful career goals to thrive in the profession.    O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Amani Weekes-Daniel, a board-eligible prosthetist/orthotist at Active Life in Los Angeles, sits down with Leigh Davis, MSPO, CPO, LPO, FAAOP(D), from Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, to explore the vital role of mentorship in the O&P profession. Together, they discuss how persistence, goal setting, and consistent communication can build meaningful and impactful mentor-protégé relationships, shaping the future of O&P professionals.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Anna Cook, an orthotic and prosthetic resident at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare in St. Paul, Minnesota, takes on hosting duties. She’s joined by Steve Fletcher, CPO, Director of Professional Credentialing for the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics, Inc., to discuss ABC's move to require dual certification for future practitioners. They delve into the historical decisions leading up to this change, which began with an increase in educational requirements and later included combined educational programs. They also cover the shift to combined residencies and board exams, the rationale behind these changes, and the impact on current and future residents. Steve highlights key dates and timelines for these new requirements, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead. The conversation also addresses the evolving nature of the profession and how the new dual certification will offer flexibility and efficiency in responding to demands, without compromising the ability to specialize.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Cassandra Delgado, CPO, an early career orthotist-prosthetist and Clinical Director at Prosthetic & Orthotic Associates in Middletown, NY, takes on hosting duties. She’s joined by Maggie Baumer, Leader of Enterprise Patient Advocacy at Hanger Clinic, and Dr. Chad Duncan, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program Director at Drexel University, for an engaging discussion on building a positive workplace culture. Together, they explore the impact of fostering a welcoming environment, encouraging teamwork, and practicing respectful communication. They share actionable strategies to address outdated behaviors, create open dialogue, and handle challenging situations using thoughtful communication techniques, paving the way for a more collaborative and supportive workplace.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.   Show notes For additional resources on cultivating positive workplace cultures: www.righttobe.org/resources  Regional Resident Liaison (RRL) Network - The National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education  https://terrellstrayhorn.com/the-belonging-lab/  https://community.thriveglobal.com/why-workplace-belonging-is-critical-to-your-bottom-line/  https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/how-to-create-a-culture-of-belonging-at-your-company/438493  For HR:  https://www.shrm.org/home 

In this episode, we continue the conversation with Kaleigh Neely, CPO of the P&O Group, and Abbey Senczyszyn, CPO of Bremer Prosthetic Design, joined by Nate Kapa, CP and president of Bremer Prosthetic Design. Together, they explore the challenges O&P residents face and the support systems that are crucial to their success. Highlighting the residency period as a vital investment in both future clinicians and patient care, they address the financial concerns while emphasizing the long-term benefits. The discussion also touches on the importance of better communication between educational institutions and residency sites to align expectations. Additionally, they underscore the role of enthusiasm, mentorship, and leadership opportunities in sustaining passion and fostering growth among young professionals in the field.   Be sure to listen to part 1 and part 2 of this conversation.    O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we continue the conversation between Kaleigh Neely, CPO, a certified orthotist-prosthetist at Geauga Rehabilitation Engineering and Abbey Senczyszyn, a certified orthotist prosthetist at Bremer Prosthetic Design. They discuss financial challenges faced by rising orthotists and prosthetists. The conversation emphasized the importance of advocating for better compensation and support systems to retain talent and improve the profession's longevity. Be sure to listen to part 1 of this conversation here.    O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we hand over the hosting duties to Sophia Marinucci, MS, MSOP, an orthotics resident at Yanke Bionics. Sophia sits down with Kristin Carnahan CPO, FAAOP, and DeAnna Chapman, CPO, FAAOP, to discuss managing expectations in the O&P profession. They explore the importance of effective communication, setting realistic expectations, and maintaining strong professional relationships. The discussion also covers "level setting" techniques to ensure alignment among all parties, along with strategies for managing both patient and personal expectations. Additionally, they emphasize the value of volunteering and the role of a growth mindset in advancing professional development.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, we hand over the hosting duties to Kaleigh Neely, CPO, a certified orthotist-prosthetist at Geauga Rehabilitation Engineering. Kaleigh sits down with Abbey Senczyszyn, a certified orthotist prosthetist at Bremer Prosthetic Design, to discuss managing finances as rising professionals in the O&P field. They explore the financial challenges of pursuing a master's degree and residency, including the burden of student loan debt, and stress the importance of companies investing in residents' education. Additionally, they highlight the need to support young professionals through networking, mentorship, and advocacy to prevent burnout and ensure ongoing engagement in their careers.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, we hand over the hosting duties to Trey Cimorelli, an orthotist prosthetist at Next Step Bionics and Prosthetics. Trey sits down with Nathan Kapa, CPO, president of Bremer Prosthetic Design and vice president of the National Association for the Advancement of Orthotics and Prosthetics.  They dive into the world of state and federal advocacy, discussing how unified efforts can lead to improved patient care. Tune in for updates on recent policy wins, the importance of consistency among O&P organizations, and the ongoing push for patient-centered approaches.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, recorded live at the 50th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Chicago, we continue our conversation with Gloria Lee, MSPO, CPO, an instructor at Northwestern University Prosthetics Orthotics Center in Chicago and Adrienne Hill, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, program director of Kennesaw State's O&P Master's Program. They dive into the interview process, sharing tips for O&P professionals on how to prepare for and ace their interviews, evaluate potential employers, and make the most out of every interview opportunity.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, recorded live at the 50th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Chicago, we hand over the hosting duties to Gloria Lee, an instructor at Northwestern University Prosthetics Orthotics Center in Chicago. Gloria sits down with Adrienne Hill, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, program director of Kennesaw State's O&P Master's Program, for an insightful conversation on the art of resume and cover letter writing. Dive into practical tips and expert advice on crafting a standout resume and cover letter that will propel your career in the O&P field.   This episode is sponsored by Qwadra.   O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, recorded live at the 50th Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Chicago, we hand over the hosting duties to Nicole Walker, MS, CPO, a doctoral candidate in Rehabilitation Science at the University of Minnesota, and a board certified research prosthetist orthotist in the Minneapolis Adaptive Design & Engineering (MADE) program at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System. Nicole sits down with Fanny Schultea, MS, MSEd, CPO, LP, FAAOP(D), executive director of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Foundation for Education and Research, for an engaging discussion exploring the mission of the Foundation, its impact on the O&P community, and exciting funding opportunities available. Discover how you can get involved with the Foundation and contribute to its vision for the future. Plus, gain insight into the types of groundbreaking research projects being supported by the Foundation.