RT Sidebar

40 Episodes
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By: "Matty P" Matt Pavlichko, JJ "JJtheRT" Valdez, & Mindy "THEE APRT" Conklin

Join RT Sidebar LIVE for practical advice based on real-world experience on the most pressing challenges facing Respiratory Therapists, Educators, and Leaders today.  Empower, Influence, Champion!  MoreRTs.com!

Episode 91 - The HOLIDAY Show!
#91
Yesterday at 11:00 PM

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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 t...


Episode 90 - From Residency to Excellence: Nicola’s Journey as a New RT
#90
12/12/2025

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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 resi...


Episode 89 - The Ultimate Gift for Thanksgiving
#89
11/25/2025

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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 Ul...


Episode 88 - Veterans and RTs - Not that Different
#88
11/11/2025

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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


Episode 87 - Ethics, Networking, and Doing Work that Matters
#87
11/04/2025

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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 stetho...


Episode 86 - Respiratory Care Week with the SHIFT
#86
10/24/2025

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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


Episode 85 - Let's Get Ethical, Ethical!
#85
10/16/2025

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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 pr...


Episode 84 - Summer Rewind: Audience Favorites on International Podcast Day
#84
10/01/2025

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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...


Episode 83 - RT Doesn't Mean Radiology, or does it? w/ Dr. Brian Walsh
#83
09/19/2025

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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, E...


Episode 82 - Emerging Leader Mallory's Story
#82
08/28/2025

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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. 


Episode 81 - Dr. Nick - Go Blue!
#81
08/14/2025

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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!


Episode 80 - Madam President Dana Evans at Summer Forum
#80
07/31/2025

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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! 


Episode 79 - Building the Next Generation with Meliza Walsh
#79
07/18/2025

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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


Episode 78 - RT Residency at Memorial Hermann
#78
07/11/2025

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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


Episode 77 - Yummy Snack with the "Respiratory Coach"
#77
07/09/2025

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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


Episode 76 - Live with Lori! Texas Edition
#76
06/26/2025

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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!


Episode 75 - RT "Home girl" - Chrysalis Ashton
#75
06/13/2025

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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... 


Episode 74 - You Need a Vent Buddy! Susan and Megan at VSRC!
#74
05/30/2025

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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


Episode 73 - Cody Needs Us: Call Respiratory Stat
#73
05/19/2025

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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


Episode 72 - Nitric comes from Lightning!
#72
05/01/2025

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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!


Episode 71 - Sputum Technologies with Rebecca Bates
#71
04/26/2025

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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...


Episode 70 - The QTip Chronicles - Not all Feedback is Bad
#70
04/03/2025

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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!


Episode 69 - Egyptian RT Dreams Become Reality
#69
03/21/2025

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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!


Episode 68 - Lifting RTs in 2025
#68
03/07/2025

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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!


Episode 67 - Safety = Trust with PPAHS
#67
02/20/2025

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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


Episode 66 - Podcasting with Mr. Braglio's Class
#66
02/06/2025

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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


Episode 65 - From Guidelines to Growth: The UK Perspective on Respiratory Physiotherapy
#65
01/23/2025

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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


Episode 64 - Welcome 2025 and Season 3
#64
01/10/2025

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Welcome Barfly Nation!!!!!!  And Welcome to Season 3 of RT Sidebar.  We just became the #1 Respiratory Podcast in the World!  This could not happen without our loyal barflies.  Buckle up for an exciting 2025 with Matty P, JJtheRT, and Mindy "Thee APRT" Conklin.  As always the talented Anna and Angela will be by our side.  2025 will be amazing...Stay Tuned!

Become part of the Exclusive Barfly LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12886540/

Do you have a shout out for us to read on air?  We have a link for tha...


Episode 63 - Rob and Mike Ethics Snack - Happy New Year!
#63
01/01/2025

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Happy New Year!  Introducing the last day of Barflies.  Love you all and enjoy this delicious snack!


Episode 62 - Leveling up with Sarah Bazelak
#62
12/22/2024

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In this can't-miss episode, Sarah Bazelak gets real about some tough feedback she once received and how it became the catalyst for her reinvention. From embracing the power of saying "yes" to building authentic networks and navigating ambition, Sarah’s story is a masterclass in growth.

Whether you're chasing a new opportunity or wrestling with your own big goals, this episode will leave you inspired to level up.


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


Episode 61 - Professionalism Post Pandemy
#61
12/20/2024

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Join our friend Maria Madden as Mindy and I dive in with a discussion on Professionalism and finding your "why" post pandemy!   This is the 3rd Day of Barflies!  Stay Tuned!


Episode 60 - Industry: Coming to the Darkside?
#60
12/16/2024

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Have you ever thought about joining the industry side of respiratory care?  Are you worried you are going to the Darkside?  Jessica and Randi tell you why it was a great choice for them and maybe a good choice for you.  Recorded at AARC Congress!  This is the 4th Day of Barflies!  Stay Tuned!


Episode 59 - LIVE with LORI!
#59
12/13/2024

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On the 5th Day of Barflies, my true love sent to me...LIVE WITH LORI! Lori Tinkler talks NBRC and the RT Profession with Matty P and JJ the RT.  Enjoy!

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


Episode 58 - Mindy and JJ at AARC with Dakotah! Networks matter
#58
11/28/2024

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Dakotah started a GoFundMe page to get her to AARC Congress.  What happens next is magical.  Check out the first full collab with JJ the RT!

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



Episode 57 - Snack with Joel Brown
#57
11/06/2024

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Snacks are shorter, digestible episodes! 

Show notes:
Join our Linkedin Group -
www.vtherm.com/rtsidebar-linkedin and be a part of the community!

Join RT Sidebar's next LIVE recording by registering here.

If you have a suggestion for a guest speaker or topic, complete this form.

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


Episode 56 – Your career is your career
#56
11/06/2024

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Mindy and Mandy are back on the pod!

Show notes:
Join our Linkedin Group -
www.vtherm.com/rtsidebar-linkedin and be a part of the community!

Join RT Sidebar's next LIVE recording by registering here.

If you have a suggestion for a guest speaker or topic, complete this form.

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...


Episode 55 - You have a student with you today!
#55
10/04/2024

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Show notes:
Join our Linkedin Group -
www.vtherm.com/rtsidebar-linkedin and be a part of the community!

Join RT Sidebar's next LIVE recording by registering here.

If you have a suggestion for a guest speaker or topic, complete this form.

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



Episode 54 - Everybody Needs Oxygen, but Some Bodies Need a Little More with Mike Hess
#54
09/17/2024

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Join Mike Hess, Sr. Director of Advocacy at the COPD Foundation, on RT Sidebar to discuss how we are running out of gas i.e., the sorry state of oxygen therapy in the US. Learn how RTs can fix it and help others SOAR!

World Oxygen Day 

Advocacy Action Center for SOAR Act.

World Oxygen Day Facebook event: https://copdf.co/O2Day24-FB

World Oxygen Day merch!

World Oxygen Day email list!

COPDF oxygen projects!

Join the AARC A...


Episode 53 - RT SNACK on Reporting
#53
09/03/2024

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Snacks are shorter, digestible episodes!

Show notes:
Join our Linkedin Group -
www.vtherm.com/rtsidebar-linkedin and be a part of the community!

Join RT Sidebar's next LIVE recording by registering here.

If you have a suggestion for a guest speaker or topic, complete this form.

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<...


THE 52nd Episode
#52
08/19/2024

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Hear from THE Mindy Conklin and THE team at THE Ohio State at the Ohio State Respiratory Conference.

Show notes:
Join our Linkedin Group -
www.vtherm.com/rtsidebar-linkedin and be a part of the community!

Join RT Sidebar's next LIVE recording by registering here.

If you have a suggestion for a guest speaker or topic, complete this form.

Do you know of an RT who deserves a shoutout on the pod? Perhaps a promotion, birthday, or anniversary worth celebrating? <...