Who Gets to Be a Role Model? Whose voice gets amplified? This episode explores podcasting as a tool for learning and equity with Abbigail Kubiak, OTD, OTR/L, LRC, who is an occupational therapist and educator. Her work focuses on innovative teaching methods in occupational therapy education, particularly the use of podcasting as a tool to expand access to role models, support professional identity development, and enhance learning in emerging and innovative practice areas. She has developed a...
Jun 2
47 min
In this episode of OT JEDI, Dr. Suzanne Rappaport interviews Blaine Robin for a powerful conversation on culture, identity, and the future of occupational therapy. Centered around his work on Caribbean Perspectives on Occupational Therapy in the United Kingdom, this discussion challenges dominant narratives in the profession and amplifies voices that have too often been overlooked. Dr. Robin shares how his lived experiences shape his approach to practice, education, and scholarship—and why it...
May 2
1 hr 13 min
How do educators move beyond one-time DEI trainings toward lasting change? In this episode, Audrey L. Zapletal and Karla A. Bell share lessons learned from a longitudinal professional development program focused on sexual and gender minority education. The discussion highlights data-driven outcomes, discomfort as part of learning, and sustainable faculty development. References McCoy, M. A., Levett-Jones, T., & Pitt, V. (2013). Development and psychometric testing of the Ascent to Compete...
Feb 1
56 min
College students today are navigating record levels of anxiety, burnout, and executive function challenges — and traditional academic support services have an increase in demand. In this episode, we explore how occupational therapists can play a critical role in fostering student success, resilience, and belonging on campus. Tune in to learn why higher education needs OT now more than ever. Referenes Barbayannis, G., Bandari, M., Zheng, X., Baquerizo, H., Pecor, K. W., & Ming, X. (2022). ...
Nov 5, 2025
14 min
For the season four opener, OT JEDI looks at state-level advocacy in occupational therapy with special guest Beth Chiariello, President of the New York State Occupational Therapy Association (NYSOTA) and Chair of the OT Department at Touro University. Beth shares her insights on how legislation and policy shape everyday OT practice, why staying informed at the state level is essential, and how NYSOTA supports practitioners and students through advocacy, education, and professional development...
Oct 1, 2025
38 min
In this episode of OT JEDI, we explore a critical but often overlooked topic—sexual health literacy among older adults living with HIV. Joined by occupational therapists Riley David and Dr. Kathryn Burke, we dive into their pilot study evaluating occupation-based sexual health education programs. We discuss how knowledge, stigma, fear, and pleasure intersect in the lives of older adults, and how occupational therapy can play a key role in fostering safe, empowered, and fulfilling intimate exp...
May 8, 2025
33 min
In this episode, our guest, Karen Jacobs, explores the role of AI in occupational therapy—from streamlining documentation and facilitating communication through translation to addressing health disparities while considering ethical implications. She discusses AI’s potential in assessment, intervention, client engagement, and its ability to make OT education more equitable. Referenes Alowais, S. A., Alghamdi, S. S., Alsuhebany, N., & et al. (2023). Revolutionizing healthcare: The role of a...
Apr 1, 2025
36 min
In this episode, we sit down with Laura Rowan, an occupational therapist and founder of Essential Pelvic Health, a private practice specializing in pelvic health. She shares her journey into this specialization, the unique needs of clients who benefit from pelvic health services, and the crucial role of advocacy and education in expanding awareness and access to care. Resources Essential Pelvic Health Referenes Alappattu, M., Hilton, S., & Bishop, M. (2019). An International Survey of Com...
Mar 2, 2025
40 min
In this episode of OT JEDI, we sit down with Clarice Grote, occupational therapist, advocate, and founder of Amplify OT, to explore the critical intersection of occupational therapy and healthcare policy. Clarice shares her journey from Columbia University to Capitol Hill, detailing how her experiences shaped her passion for advocacy, equity, and policy-driven change. We discuss how Medicare and healthcare policies impact OT practice, reimbursement, and access to care, and Clarice breaks down...
Feb 1, 2025
56 min
In this episode on the OT JEDI Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome Sarah Vines, who shares her incredible work supporting individuals after top surgery. Sarah discusses best practices for gender-affirming care, the critical role of mental health in the process, and how occupational therapy can make a difference in the lives of transgender clients. Resources WPATH Standards 8: https://www.wpath.org/media/cms/Documents/SOC%20v7/SOC%20V7_English.pdf A Clinician's Guide to Gender-Affirming Care: h...
Jan 1, 2025
42 min
Load more