WRAP IT UP Sports Medicine + More

In this episode, Eli Hallak sits down with Rob Hoadley, cardiac arrest survivor and advocate, to share an extraordinary story of survival and the mission that grew from it. After suffering multiple cardiac arrests, Rob dedicated his life to expanding CPR education, AED access, and cardiac emergency preparedness. He shares how immediate bystander CPR helped save his life, while a failed AED reinforced that simply having lifesaving equipment isn’t enough. Rob now works with Cardio Partners and advocates for Cardiac Emergency Response Plans that ensure people are trained, equipment is maintained, and everyone knows how to respond. Connect with Rob Hoadley Directly LinkedIn │ YouTube │ Instagram │ Email │ Cardio Partners

This week, a vital profession is brought to the forefront as Dr. Desaree Festa, Team Sport Psychologist of the NFL Buffalo Bills, joins Eli Hallak to discuss the importance of Mental Wellness in Sport. Join us for an honest conversation about the benefits of being embedded with an Organization full-time, the value of self-care, and why athletics is a vehicle to express who you are; it does not define you. Buffalo Bills This episode was originally released on 11/25/24

In this episode, Eli Hallak sits down with Brittany Backofen, President of the Nevada Athletic Trainers’ Association, to shine a national spotlight on Athletic Training in Nevada. Together, they discuss Nevada’s efforts to join the Athletic Training Licensure Compact, the need for greater access to qualified Athletic Trainers in rural communities, and the importance of advocacy and volunteerism in moving the profession forward. Brittany also addresses the growing demands placed on Athletic Trainers as high school sports expand and why proper staffing, training, and compensation must grow alongside them.

In this emotional episode, we pay tribute to Jim Bonds, who left us too soon. Eli Hallak and Gabriel Hallak sit down with coaches and former players of the St. Francis High School Golden Knights, Pat Carroll, John Carroll, and Dietrich Riley. Together, they discuss the legacy and the loss of a friend and mentor. Pasadena Star-News: Jim Bonds Memorial The SCV Signal: Jim Bonds International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) This episode was originally released on 10/28/24

In this Special Release episode, Eli Hallak sits down with Aaron Strout, Head Athletic Trainer at Colony High School, to discuss an ongoing fight to protect the Athletic Training profession in California. Aaron shares how certified Athletic Trainers in his district had their job titles changed to “Athletic Support Specialist” after raising concerns about compliance with California’s title-protection law. They discuss why this goes far beyond a job title, affecting professional recognition, appropriate qualifications, and ultimately the healthcare provided to student-athletes. Aaron also highlights the support of the California Athletic Trainers’ Association and calls on Athletic Trainers, parents, and communities to advocate for stronger protections. The discussion underscores what’s at stake when schools attempt to work around professional standards and why Athletic Trainers must stand together to protect both their profession and the students they serve. Chaffey Joint Union High School District California Athletic Trainers’ Association Senators | California State Senate