Listening Time — 32:06

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What do Americans really think about physical therapy — and what’s keeping more people from seeing a PT? In this episode of the APTA Podcast, host Alicia Hosmer sits down with APTA’s Drew Contreras and Emilio Rouco, as well as APTA’s research partners Shelly Adcock and Tam Nguyen from Penta Group, to unpack findings from APTA's Consumer Perceptions Report.

Hear how insights on awareness, access, and trust are shaping APTA’s national advocacy and public awareness strategies — including the new ChoosePT, PT For Future Me campaign — and what PTs and PTAs can do to help more Americans view physical therapy as a valuable, smart strategy to maintain lifelong movement and health.

Our Speakers

Shelly Adcock is vice president of intelligence at Penta Group, where he leads end-to-end engagements and helps teams translate research into actionable insights and implications. 

Drew Contreras, PT, DPT, is a board-certified clinical specialist in sports physical therapy and APTA's vice president of strategic affairs. A decorated U.S. Army veteran with more than 25 years of experience, he has served on numerous professional boards. 

Alicia Hosmer is senior director of brand strategy and communications at APTA and brings over 20 years of experience leading brand and growth initiatives for associations.

Emilio Rouco is APTA's director of public and media relations, leading the association's public awareness campaigns. He has more than 30 years of experience in brand management, social media, and media relations. 

Tam Nguyen is an insights analyst at Penta Group who supports clients across industries — including health care, education, financial services, and technology — by transforming data into clear findings and strategic recommendations.