
Andrew Rizza, MS, ATC, LAT, PTA
Creator and Host
Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast was created to discuss the ever-changing landscape in healthcare, physical therapy, athletic training and sports science. Each week we will discuss the barriers that healthcare professionals and the consumer face and how we as individuals can collaborate to make the listeners better understand the industry for a better patient and athlete experience.

Cameron Roth, MD, MHS
Co- Host
Hand & Upper Extremity Surgeon
OrthoArizona
Dr Roth is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand, wrist, and upper extremity surgery. He completed his Orthopaedic surgical residency at the University of Chicago, as well as additional fellowship subspeciality training in upper extremity surgery at Harvard and an international fellowship in complex shoulder reconstruction in Bern, Switzerland. He is a peer-reviewer for The Journal of Hand Surgery and also serves as a consultant to the MLB’s Chicago White Sox.
Episodes

Monday Mar 17, 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
“I'm Representing HONDURAS in the Olympics!”Episode 25 of Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast with Honduras Olympian @july.c.avila Julimar Avila. In this episode of the Behind the Sports Medicine podcast, Andrew interviews Julimar Avila, a semi-finalist at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games and a swimmer for Honduras. Julimar shares her journey from starting swimming at a young age to competing at the highest levels, including the challenges of balancing academics and athletics, the importance of support from coaches and family, and her experiences at the Olympics. She discusses the sacrifices made for her sport, the role of team dynamics, and the significance of mental and physical health in her training. In this conversation, Julimar Avila shares her journey as an Olympic swimmer, discussing the challenges of imposter syndrome, the evolution of her training from college to the Olympics, and the importance of dryland training and yoga. She reflects on the life lessons learned from competitive sports, the motivation provided by her family, and her growth and resilience throughout her career. Julimar also shares personal insights, including her unique name and love for reading, emphasizing the importance of balance in life.
If you find our content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom #Hondurasswimming #tokyoolympics #parisolympics #olympicswimming #BUswimming #redtideswimming

Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
"How Modern Spine Treatment Changes Lives Across Generations" Tune into Episode 24 of the Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast with Dr. Jessica Aidlen @draidlenspinesurgery, an orthopedic spine surgeon, shares her journey into medicine, the importance of holistic patient care, and the advancements in surgical techniques, including disc replacement. She emphasizes the significance of understanding patient needs and the role of injections in pain management, while also discussing the challenges faced by women in the field of orthopedics. Dr Aidlen discusses various aspects of pain management, particularly focusing on injections, the safety and procedure involved, advancements in spinal surgery technology, the critical role of physical therapy in recovery, the importance of mentorship in the medical field, and balancing professional life with personal interests. Jess emphasizes the individualized approach to patient care and the significance of building relationships with patients to ensure better outcomes.
If you find our content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom #draidlenspinesurgery

Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
"UF Alum Conquers English Channel and RAISES $250,000 for Ukraine!" Tune into Episode 23 with University of Florida Alumni Swimmer @jackblyzinskyj Jack Blyzinskyj. In this episode, Andrew interviews Jack Blyzinskyj, a former elite swimmer who shares his journey from a small-town high school athlete to competing at the University of Florida and internationally. Jack discusses the importance of sports medicine, recovery, and mental preparation in achieving athletic success. He reflects on his Olympic aspirations, the challenges of transitioning out of competitive swimming, and his recent swim across the English Channel to raise funds for Ukraine. The conversation highlights the significance of mentorship, the role of athletic trainers, and the impact of elite athletics on personal development.
If you find our content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom #UFswimming #usaswimming #meterbymeter.co.uk

Saturday Feb 15, 2025
Saturday Feb 15, 2025
“ Athlete Injury Prevention” Tune into Episode 22 of the Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast on February 17th with Dr. William Meehan III, The Director of the @michelicenter for Sports Injury Prevention https://www.themichelicenter.com and the director of research for the Brain Injury Center of Boston Children's Hospital, discusses his background in medicine and how he got involved in sports medicine. He explains the mission of the Micheli Center, which focuses on preventing sports injuries through personalized evaluations and prescriptions for athletes. Dr. Meehan also highlights the importance of mental health in sports medicine and the role of the Micheli Center in addressing mental health concerns in athletes. He shares his interest in concussion research and the establishment of a sports concussion clinic at Boston Children's Hospital. In this conversation, Dr. Bill Meehan and Andrew discuss the multidisciplinary approach to concussion management and the importance of a comprehensive assessment. They highlight the need to consider other factors that may be contributing to persistent symptoms and the benefits of a holistic approach. They also discuss the evolution of concussion management over the years and the importance of mentorship in professional growth. Dr. Meehan shares his passion for shooting marbles and the history of the game.
If you find our content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom #themichelicenter #Childrenshospitalboston

Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
"Medical Amnesty, WHAT is it and WHY it's important" Tune into Episode 21 of the Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast with @chrisbrucewilliams Chris and Diane Williams, founders of the https://mccraewilliams.com McCrae Williams Foundation, which was established in memory of their son McCrae, who tragically passed away during his freshman year at college. The conversation delves into the importance of medical amnesty policies, the need for cultural shifts in athletics, and the critical role of bystander behavior in ensuring athlete safety. The Williamses share their mission to educate athletes, coaches, and parents about the importance of calling for help in emergencies and the need for systemic changes in sports culture to prevent future tragedies.
If you find out content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #physicaltherapy #sportsscience #orthopedics #atomichabits #medicalamnesty #mccraewilliamsfoundation

Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
“From Athletic Trainer to Academic Superstar: The Incredible Journey”
Tune into Episode 20 of the Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast with @rlaham0921Ron Laham, MEd, LAT, ATC, CSCS, athletic trainer and assistant professor at @Lasell_u, @lasell_at. In this conversation Andrew and Ron discuss their history together and Ron's career path in athletic training. Ron shares his experiences working at various levels of sports, from high school to Division 1, and the excitement and challenges that come with it. They also touch on the perception of age in the field and the puzzle-solving aspect of diagnosing and treating injuries. Ron reflects on the decision to pursue athletic training and how it has shaped his career. Ron discusses his experience as a rehab coordinator and the challenges he faced in that role. He emphasizes the importance of standing your ground and not wavering in your decisions as an athletic trainer. Ron also talks about the business aspect of college athletics and how it affected his work. He shares stories about dealing with parents and the need for mutual respect between coaches and athletic trainers. Ron mentions his transition into education and teaching experience. Ron and Andrew discuss Ron's journey as a professor and his involvement with the @BelfastGiants hockey team. They also reminisce about their experiences in Philadelphia and share some fun facts about themselves.
If you find our content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #physicaltherapy #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom #Laselluniversity #belfastgaints

Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
In this conversation, Andrew interviews Victor Chiang, CEO and co-founder of Cypress Tree, their portfolio includes Redi a cannabis company based in Boston. They discuss Victor's background and how he got into the cannabis industry, the difference between buying cannabis from a regulated location versus the street, the regulations and testing in Massachusetts, the different product forms available in dispensaries, the benefits and effects of different consumption methods, and the importance of education and consultations for customers. In this conversation, Victor discusses the importance of consultations in the cannabis industry and the differences between CBD and THC. He also talks about the current federal regulations and the potential for federal recognition and financial benefits. The conversation touches on the challenges of advertising in the industry and the future of cannabis, including the possibility of federal reform and the need for a standardized regulatory framework.
If you find our episodes engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #physicaltherapy #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom

Monday Jan 06, 2025
Monday Jan 06, 2025
In this episode, Andrew Rizza interviews Benjamin Beck @benbeck3333, the managing partner and CIO of @beckbode Beck Bode Wealth Management. They discuss personal finance and how to secure one's finances for the future. Ben shares his background in sports and how he transitioned into the financial profession. They talk about the importance of telling the truth to clients and the value of having an emotional connection with them. They also discuss the key factors to being successful in the financial industry and the importance of staying the course during market fluctuations. Ben explains how they approach financial planning for different goals and age groups, including young adults just starting out. In this conversation, Ben Beck discusses the importance of trust and belief in the client-advisor relationship, the anxiety of not having a consistent paycheck in retirement, and the flexibility of college savings options. He also talks about the growth of Beck Bode Wealth Management and the value of financial planning. Fun facts about Ben include his love for Dave Matthews Band and his ambidexterity.
If you enjoy our podcast and content please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #finance, #financialadvisor, #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #physicaltherapy #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom