RT Sidebar

Send a text 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

Send a text 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.

Send us a text 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.

Send us a text 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.

Send us a text 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.

Send us a text 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!

Send us a text 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

Send us a text 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

Send us a text 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

Send us a text 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

Send us a text 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

Send us a text 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 

Send us a text 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

Send us a text 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!

Send us a text “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!

Send us a text 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! 

Send us a text 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

Send us a text 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!

Send us a text 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... 

Send us a text 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