In part 1 of a 2 part episode of the Health Care Education Transformation Podcast, Dr. Kimberly Varnado shares her inspiring journey from clinical practice to academia and program directorship. Delving into her experiences in developing clinical reasoning skills and the challenges she faced as an educator, Dr. Varnado emphasizes the importance of structured mentorship and continuous learning. The conversation touches on the significance of business acumen in academia and the evolution of education in physical therapy.

Dr. Varnado's insights offer valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of higher education, fostering leadership skills, and addressing the business aspects of academia. Her dedication to improving physical therapy education shines through as she explores the intersection of teaching, mentorship, and professional development.

Key Takeaways:

- Dr. Varnado emphasizes the critical role of structured mentorship in building clinical reasoning skills for physical therapists.
- The importance of embracing continuous learning and seeking opportunities for professional growth in academia is highlighted.
- The value of business acumen in education and the evolving landscape of physical therapy practices are discussed.
- Dr. Varnado's journey from clinical practice to academia underscores the significance of leadership development and mentorship in shaping the future of physical therapy education.
- Enhancing the quality of education, fostering a supportive learning environment, and empowering students are key themes in Dr. Varnado's approach to program directorship.

Feel free to reach out to Dr Varnado at the following resources:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-varnado-pt-dpt-dhsc-ocs-faaompt-71a6698/
https://www.instagram.com/kimberlyvarnado/
https://www.facebook.com/kimberly.varnado/
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For more information on how we can optimize and standardize healthcare education and delivery, subscribe to the Healthcare Education Transformation Podcast on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.