Elina Gorelkin Bio:

Dr. Elina Gorelkin, PT, DPT, CCVT, is a certified vestibular therapist specializing in the restoration of balance, the reduction of dizziness, and the improvement of functional movement. She integrates evidence-based practices with a patient-centered approach to empower individuals to achieve their health goals. Dr. Gorelkin earned her Bachelor of Science in Movement Science from the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Colorado–Denver. In her practice, she uses a variety of advanced techniques, including trigger point dry needling for pain reduction and blood flow restriction (BFR) training for strength gains. She is currently studying neurofeedback to explore its potential in helping patients gain control over their pain and dizziness. Dr. Gorelkin is passionate about collaborating with her patients and other healthcare providers to create a comprehensive and effective path to wellness.

Elina Contact Info:

• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Email - elina@fullrangewellness.com
• Website

Summary:

In this episode of the Achieving Peak Performance podcast, hosts Dr. Keith Brennan and Rob Stein interview Elina Gorelkin, a physical therapist specializing in vestibular therapy. Elina shares her personal journey into the field, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing dizziness, especially in athletes. The conversation covers the recovery process, common causes of dizziness, and the impact of medications on balance. Elina emphasizes the need for awareness and trust in one's feelings regarding dizziness, encouraging listeners to seek help when needed.

Takeaways:

• Elina Gorelkin specializes in vestibular therapy and shares her journey.
• Dizziness is often ignored but can indicate serious issues.
• Athletes should be aware of their balance and report symptoms.
• Recovery from dizziness can take time and requires communication.
• Neuroplasticity allows for recovery and adaptation in vestibular function.
• Parents and coaches should listen to athletes' concerns about dizziness.
• Early intervention can lead to quicker recovery from balance issues.
• Medications can cause dizziness; awareness of side effects is crucial.
• Trusting one's feelings about dizziness is important for health.
• Dizziness can stem from various causes, including anxiety and physical trauma.

Host Contact Info:

• Dr. Keith Brennan
• Rob Stein

Dr. Ed Uszynski Bio:

Dr. Ed Uszynski is an author, speaker, and sports minister with over three decades’ experience discipling college and professional athletes. He’s written articles, essays, and training manuals on the intersection of faith and sport, and recently co-wrote Away Game: A Christian Parent’s Guide to Navigating Youth Sports (David C. Cook, July 2025). He specializes in facilitating conversations around both biblical and culturally significant content for organizations pursuing a Christian vision of life, and the author of Untangling Critical Race Theory: What Christians Need to Know and Why It Matters (IVP). He has two theological degrees from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a PhD in American Culture Studies. He and his wife Amy have four children and live in Xenia, OH.

Dr. Ed Uszynski Contact:

• Email - eddieu032@gmail.com
• Website - thechristianathlete.com

Brian Smith Bio:

Brian Smith is the author of several books, including The Christian Athlete, and has been on staff with Athletes in Action since 2008. A graduate of Wake Forest University, Brian has a master’s degree in Theology and Sports Studies through Baylor University. Brian lives in Lowell, Michigan, with his wife and three kids and writes regularly at thechristianathlete.com.

Brian Smith Contact:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-smith-5bb319a6/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/brian.smith.193215
• Instagram - brianlinsey
• X - briansmithaia
• Email - brian@thechristianathlete.com
• Website - https://www.thechristianathlete.com

Summary:

In this episode of the Achieving Peak Performance podcast, Dr. Keith and Rob Stein engage with Ed Yuzinski and Brian Smith, authors of a book aimed at helping Christian parents navigate the complexities of youth sports. The conversation explores the intersection of faith and sports, the pressures faced by young athletes, and the importance of keeping sports fun and meaningful. The authors share insights from their experiences in sports ministry and coaching, emphasizing the need for parents to focus on character development and the spiritual growth of their children rather than solely on athletic performance. They discuss the realities of youth sports participation, the impact of parental expectations, and the significance of fostering a love for play in children.

Takeaways:

• The youth sports industry is a $40 billion industry.
• Most kids just want to play and have fun.
• Keeping sports fun is crucial for long-term participation.
• Parents should focus on being their child's main discipler.
• Character development is more important than performance.
• Children have an innate desire to please their parents.
• Parental pressure can lead to burnout in young athletes.
• Celebrating character over performance fosters a healthy mindset.
• The importance of understanding our own motivations as parents.
• Play could exist in heaven, so we should embrace it now.

Host Contact Info:

• Dr. Keith Brennan
• Rob Stein

Seth King Bio:

Seth is a Sports Physical Therapist and owner of Limitless Physical Therapy & Performance in Rochester Hills, Michigan. An avid CrossFit enthusiast and occasional Pickleball competitor, Seth loves coaching local active adults and athletes to harness movement as medicine to get out of pain and back in the game.

Seth King Contact:

• Instagram - @limitless_pt_performance
• Email - seth@limitless.physio
• Website -https://www.limitless.physio

Summary:

In this episode of the Achieving Peak Performance podcast, hosts Dr. Keith Brennan and Rob Stein interview Seth King, a physical therapist specializing in athlete care. Seth shares his journey into physical therapy, emphasizing the importance of individualized care for athletes compared to the general population. The conversation explores the significance of proper movement, the role of one-on-one coaching, and the necessity of overcoming fear in rehabilitation. Seth discusses the developmental differences in young athletes, common muscle activation issues, and the importance of technology in measuring progress. The episode concludes with a focus on ownership in healthcare and the benefits of concierge care.

Takeaways:

• Seth King's journey into physical therapy began with his own injury.
• Athletes require a different dosage of care compared to non-athletes.
• Fear often prevents clinicians from pushing patients in rehab.
• Proper movement patterns are essential for injury prevention.
• One-on-one coaching is crucial for young athletes.
• Weight training should be approached with caution and proper form.
• Developmental differences in athletes affect their training needs.
• Common issues include underdeveloped glutes and core activation.
• Technology can enhance rehabilitation and track progress effectively.
• Patients should take ownership of their health and rehabilitation process.

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Host Contact:

• Dr. Keith Brennan
• Rob Stein