Starting your first job as a PA can feel like stepping into a whole new world—one where the rules are unwritten, the expectations are unclear, and the support varies wildly depending on your practice setting. Some of you are navigating structured onboarding programs in major hospital systems. Others are figuring things out on your own in smaller, fast-paced clinics.
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No matter where you land, you’re probably realizing you don’t know what you don’t know. That’s normal. It’s also why we created Ready, Set, Practice: Insights for New PAs—a six-episode podcast designed specifically for early career PAs.
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Hosted by Jennifer Orozco-Kolb, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, a seasoned PA leader and AAPA’s Chief Medical Officer, this podcast is your on-the-go guide to building clinical confidence, navigating your first job, and owning your voice in the profession.
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Each short episode tackles a common early career challenge with candid conversations, expert insights, and practical tools. You can stream episodes anytime on Apple or Spotify—and even claim CME in AAPA’s Learning Central.
So, let’s take a quick peek into each episode – no spoilers!
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Hosted by Jennifer Orozco-Kolb, DMSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, a seasoned PA leader and AAPA’s Chief Medical Officer, this podcast is your on-the-go guide to building clinical confidence, navigating your first job, and owning your voice in the profession.
Each short episode tackles a common early career challenge with candid conversations, expert insights, and practical tools. You can stream episodes anytime on Apple or Spotify—and even claim CME in AAPA’s Learning Central.
So, let’s take a quick peek into each episode – no spoilers!
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Episode 1: PA-S to PA-C. So, You Graduated — Now What?
Graduating is a major milestone — but figuring out what happens next can feel overwhelming. Natalie Crump, MS, PA-C, shares what she wishes she’d known during the transition from student to practicing PA, from job searching and licensing to contract negotiation. Gain the clarity and confidence you need to take the next step in your career. Listen Now
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Episode 2: Now You Are in Practice — Who Decides What You Get to Do?
You’re trained and licensed — but once you get into your first job, there may be questions about what you’re “allowed” to do. Megan Fulton, DMSc, PA-C, unpacks the complex and sometimes conflicting layers that define your scope of practice, including state laws, facility policies, and billing rules. Learn how to take ownership of your role and practice both safely and confidently. Listen Now
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Duncan Daviau, MPAS, PA-C
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Episode 3: Where Are We Headed? The Future of the PA Profession
As a new PA, you’re entering a profession that’s evolving fast — but where is it headed, and how do you stay ahead? In this forward-looking conversation, Duncan Daviau, MPAS, PA-C, shares insights on key trends, including the title change, legislative priorities, and how PAs can lead the profession into the future. Get the insight you need to shape your future and lead change in the profession. Listen Now
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Episode 4: Show Us the Money (or Pay a PA)
You’ve been trained to care for patients — but not necessarily how to bill for it. Sondra DePalma, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA, breaks down what new PAs need to know about documentation, payer rules, and how billing impacts everything from patient care to how you are valued as a member of the healthcare team. This episode demystifies the business side of practice so you can avoid pitfalls and get paid what you’re worth. Listen Now
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Sondra DePalma, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA
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Jonathan Baker, PA-C, DFAAPA
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Episode 5: Who’s Got Your Back? Teamwork and Advocacy in the PA Profession
Early in your career, it’s easy to feel like you’re on your own — but you’re not. Jonathan Baker, PA-C, DFAAPA, shares how he found community, identified mentors, and got involved in advocacy efforts that shaped his career. Learn how to stay connected and build the kind of support system every PA needs.
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Episode 6: Stepping Into Your Leadership as a New PA
Leadership isn’t just for directors or those with decades of experience — it starts now. Clair Kuriakose, MBA, PA-C, FACHE, talks about finding your voice, navigating tough situations early in practice, and leading from wherever you are. Discover how to shape your career while staying grounded and well. Listen Now
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Clair Kuriakose, MBA, PA-C, FACHE
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That’s a wrap on this special edition of In Practice. I hope Ready, Set, Practice: Insights for New PAs earns a spot in your podcast rotation and gives you the comfort and confidence you need to overcome the challenges of early practice. Listen to what resonates, skip around, and come back when you need a refresher. Let me know what you think about it – and don’t forget to share it with others! Remember, this series is here to support you and so is AAPA.
In Practice will be back in November. In the meantime, check out past issues on our archive page.
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Kelsey King
Assistant Director,
Career Products & Services
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| AAPA | 2318 Mill Road, Suite 1300, Alexandria, VA 22314 | 703.836.2272 |
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