When Steven Hartley graduated from the UCSF/SFSU Graduate Program in Physical Therapy in 2017, he was certain he wanted to be a sports or ortho PT. But after landing a job that looked ideal on paper, he quickly found himself facing burnout. That experience led him to pivot into a leadership role at a skilled nursing facility and discovering a love of geriatrics. Wanting to further expand his impact, Steven earned an MBA and transitioned into healthcare consulting. For the past several years, he’s worked as a managing consultant, partnering with organizations ranging from the VA and tribal health systems to those navigating value-based care. Today, he finds deep fulfillment in the broader impact of his work – and in the flexibility it gives him to spend more time with his family.

00:00 Introduction to PT Path

00:37 Meet Steven Hartley: From Napa Valley to PT School

01:37 Early Career and Mentorship

03:49 Transition to Management

05:42 Pivot to Geriatric Care

09:17 Journey into Consulting

19:53 Balancing Career and Personal Life

20:28 Remote Work and Consulting Challenges

22:50 Exploring Career Opportunities Beyond Patient Care

23:12 The Role of PTs in Value-Based Care

23:28 Digital Health and Innovation in Healthcare

23:56 Hesitancy Around Engaging with the Financial Side of Healthcare

24:42 Success Stories in Value-Based Care Projects

25:25 Opportunities for PTs in ACO Partnerships

26:01 Alternative Career Paths for PT Graduates

27:20 The Reality of Burnout in Healthcare

28:16 Navigating Career Changes and Finding the Right Fit

31:26 The Importance of Networking and Planning

34:14 Transitioning to Management Consulting

38:45 Advice for Aspiring Consultants

42:07 The Value of Informational Interviews and Networking

44:31 Final Thoughts and Encouragement