Thriving in the Rapids: Jim Smith’s Daredevil Approach to Life

Show Notes

Today’s Guests:

Dr. James Smith PT, DPT, MA

Episode Summary:

In this captivating podcast episode, Jim Smith, a legend not only within APTA Acute Care, but the House of Delegates itself, takes us on a remarkable journey through his experiences and insights. From the very beginning, it becomes evident that Jim’s passion for his profession is unparalleled. He emphasizes the importance of advocacy and how physical therapists should go above and beyond to provide comprehensive care for their patients.

Jim’s stories highlight the significant impact physical therapists can have on individuals’ lives. Whether it’s advocating for a loved one’s continued therapy or pushing the boundaries of their own physical capabilities, Jim’s dedication shines through. Outside of his profession, Jim reveals his adventurous side, sharing his love for whitewater canoeing and intense water-based challenges.

Jim discusses his enthusiasm for member participation in the House of Delegates and encourages them to share their recommendations and concerns. He highlights the bylaw amendment allowing PT Acute Care to include a PTA delegate. Exciting motions include addressing human trafficking, strengthening rural healthcare, and advocating for pay equity based on gender. Jim acknowledges the need to rectify the longstanding issue of pay disparity. The hosts express their support for these motions and their personal perspective on gender pay equity. Overall, Jim emphasizes the importance of member input and the wisdom that comes from collective voices in shaping the profession’s future.

In our fan favorite segment, Rapid Responses, Jim showcases his quick wit and genuine responses. He shares valuable advice, names influential colleagues, and emphasizes the critical role physical therapists play in critical care and neurologic problems. Throughout the discussion, Jim’s enthusiasm and commitment to improving patient outcomes are truly inspiring.

Listeners are left with a powerful message: physical therapists must continue to advocate, collaborate, and strive for excellence, ensuring that their profession thrives and positively impacts the lives of those they serve.

Guest Quotes:

5:14 “I might be excited in a positive way or a negative way, but I need to bring your voices to the House of Delegates. The. We hear a hundred, 450 people there, plus more with consultants is over 500 and it sounds unwieldy, but when we can bring that, that group’s wisdom to bear. We all win. There’s a lot of wisdom that comes through those voices, and that means hearing from our members.”

21:31 “That’s the intent with the House of Delegates, is to be looking to the future and building the foundation so that we continue to thrive in the future.”

22:55 “Often these positions are very informative and it’s now not just Jim Smith saying This is a good idea, this is an endorsement from our whole profession.”

37:53 “Here we are controlling our future. I know it’s frustrating when we’re tired from a pandemic, when we’re have challenges around.

Productivity ideas. But we do great, great, great things for our patients. We need to advocate in our clinics, in our hospitals, in our communities, and in our legislator legislatures so that we continue to thrive and do those things that are so impactful for patients.”

Rapid Responses:

If there was going to be an actor to play you, Jim Smith in a movie, who would it be?”

“Well, Brad Pitt and then my wife would want to play my wife and things would be pretty good for her.”

You know, you work in acute care when…

“I’m gonna say, people meet me and say, let me tell you about my shoulder that hurts.

And I say, you gotta understand my expertise is critical illness and neurologic problems. If you need to see me. You’re really in trouble.”

Links:

https://www.apta.org/apta-and-you/leadership-and-governance/policies-and-bylaws

https://www.apta.org/apta-and-you/leadership-and-governance/house-of-delegates

July 10th HOD TownHall 8pm EST: https://www.aptaacutecare.org/events/eventdetails.aspx?id=1728584

https://www.ranaawdishmd.com/book

For questions about 2024 APTA Acute Care Nominations, please email: acute@aptaacutecare.org