About
Meet the hosts of the Pushing Pediatrics podcast!
Sheila Madden
Sheila is a highly skilled pediatric physical therapist with a strong background in pediatric care. She brings a wealth of experience to the Pushing Pediatrics team, specializing in various areas of pediatric physical therapy, including acute care, inpatient rehab, and outpatient settings. Based in Hawaii on the island of O’ahu, she is board-certified in pediatrics and actively engaged in academia. Sheila is currently pursuing a faculty residency with Nova Southeastern University, participating in academic and scholarship opportunities while preparing for a future PhD program. In addition, she serves as an Adjunct Faculty member at Hawai’i Pacific University’s DPT program and continues to provide exceptional care at a local outpatient pediatric facility on the island. Sheila’s dedication to pediatric physical therapy is evident through her involvement with the APTA PCS Prep Committee and her role as Faculty for the APTA Pediatric Certified Specialist (PCS) Exam Preparation Course. Her commitment to professional development and ongoing education make her a valuable asset to the pediatric physical therapy community.
Sara Karman
Sara is a pediatric physical therapist who has been practicing in the field for six years. After graduating from PT school in 2017, she returned to her home city Upstate/Western New York with her now husband. Sara passed the PCS exam in 2021, making her a board certified pediatric clinical specialist. She currently works as a school based physical therapist in a school for children and young adults with severe and complex physical, cognitive, and behavioral needs. Sara is an active member of the APTA, serving as the co-chair on the APPT Mentoring program subcommittee and is a credentialed clinical instructor. In addition to physical therapy, Sara is also a certified group exercise instructor and personal trainer, and volunteers at GiGis Playhouse, a center for individuals with Down Syndrome. Sara’s goal as a clinician is to better the lives of the children and young adults that she works with through gaining knowledge and expertise and aspires to teach new graduates and physical therapy students in the future.