PTA+ Physical Therapist Assistant

PTA+ Physical Therapist Assistant


It’s Never Too Late: One PTA’s Path to Purpose & Passion

June 22, 2025

In this honest and energizing conversation, John Cooper, a seasoned PTA and newly certified ASTYM practitioner, opens up about the regrets he’s overcome, the power of lifelong learning, and how he found new purpose through limb-loss rehabilitation.

Host Katie Sutton guides the conversation with transparency and encouragement as they unpack:


  • CEU regrets and how to course-correct
  • Overcoming imposter syndrome as a healthcare provider
  • Advocating for advanced training (like ASTYM)
  • The importance of saying YES to opportunity (Space Jam quote included!)
  • Getting started with specialty certifications like EIM’s orthopedic program
  • The growing need for PTAs in prosthetics & phantom limb care


Whether you're a new grad or 10+ years in, this episode offers motivation, tactical advice, and the real-life perspective every PTA needs to hear.