Podcasts about AAC

Many clinicians are told there is a right way to prompt AAC users. You may have heard that you should always use least-to-most prompting. Others insist most-to-least prompting is best. But what does the research actually say? In this episode, we look at findings from a scoping review of 29 AAC intervention studies examining the prompting strategies used with children with autism who use speech-generating devices. Here's the surprising truth: The research does not show that one prompting hierarchy is universally superior. Instead, effective AAC intervention is multimodal, flexible, and individualized. Successful clinicians use a toolbox approach, drawing from multiple evidence-based strategies depending on the child in front of them. In this episode, I walk you through a DTTC-inspired prompting hierarchy adapted for AAC that moves children from high levels of support toward full independence. I also share a real therapy example from this week using a St. Patrick's Day literacy activity with a puppet and AAC device, so you can see exactly how this process works in practice. This is not a theory. This is something you can try tomorrow. Why This Matters for AAC Intervention? Children with autism are developing across multiple domains simultaneously: • language • motor planning • executive function • symbolic representation • social interaction Because autism is multifaceted, intervention cannot rely on a single rigid strategy. The most effective clinicians adopt an “all of the above” mindset and use prompting dynamically depending on: • the child • the task • the novelty of vocabulary • the motor planning demands • the learning context This episode will show you how to do exactly that. Want Ready-to-Use Activities That Apply This Framework? Inside the SIS Membership, I provide ready-to-use activities designed specifically for: • AAC users • speech sound disorders • language development • motor planning • executive function Every week, you receive literacy-based movement activities that allow you to apply frameworks like the DTTC-for-AAC hierarchy immediately with the children on your caseload. These activities are designed to address multiple developmental domains simultaneously while keeping therapy engaging and efficient. You also get access to the Speech-Language Treatment Target Library, giving you structured targets across speech, language, AAC, and literacy. Instead of spending hours planning therapy, you can walk into your session with activities that are already designed to produce meaningful communication gains. Start Using DTTC for AAC Today If you want structured activities that help you implement these strategies immediately:

Returning guest and Microsoft MVP Jim Tyler joins The PowerShell Podcast to talk Zero Trust security, K–12 IT leadership, open-source tooling, and building technology that serves real-world needs. Jim shares how he uses PowerShell to proactively harden school environments, including his Ghost module for endpoint lockdown and his Chrome extension You Shall Not Pass for classroom device management. Beyond security, the conversation dives into Jim's assistive technology project TapSpeak, a free AAC communication app designed to help nonverbal students speak without financial barriers. From community leadership and public service to certifications and content creation, this episode explores how technical skills can scale far beyond scripts—and into meaningful impact. Key Takeaways: • Zero Trust starts with proactive hardening – Tools like Jim's Ghost module help limit lateral movement, restrict protocols, and reduce attack surfaces before incidents occur. • Technical skills are force multipliers – From Chrome extensions to iOS apps, PowerShell knowledge and coding fundamentals translate into broader impact across platforms. • Community contribution compounds over time – Whether serving on public boards, mentoring, or publishing tools for free, consistent service builds trust, opportunity, and long-term influence. Guest Bio: Jim Tyler is an IT Director for Niles Community Schools in Michigan and a Microsoft MVP known for practical automation and security tooling in K–12 environments. He is the creator of the Ghost PowerShell security module, the You Shall Not Pass Chrome extension, and the free AAC communication project TapSpeak. Beyond IT, Jim serves in multiple public leadership roles, coaches youth sports, and actively contributes to the PowerShell community through his newsletter PowerShell News and technical content. Resource Links: • PowerShell News Newsletter – https://powershell.news • Jim Tyler on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@jimrtyler • Connect with Andrew - https://andrewpla.tech/links • Ghost PowerShell Module – https://github.com/jimrtyler/ghost • You Shall Not Pass Chrome Extension – https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/you-shall-not-pass-by-jim/efggnkbeomjjanjmghbadggegjemogee • TapSpeak – https://tapspeak.org • PDQ Discord – https://discord.gg/PDQ   The PowerShell Podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0q3Y0mMjWF4  

Temple vs. Tulsa College Basketball Pick Prediction by Tony T. Temple vs. Tulsa Profiles Temple at Tulsa 3PM ET— Temple has a record of 16-14 with 8-9 in the AAC with road wins against Charlotte, Rice, UTSA and East Carolina. Road losses at Memphis. Tulane, Wichita St and FAU. Tulsa is 24-6 with 12-5 in the AAC with home wins against Rice, Memphis, Wichita St, North Texas, Charlotte and UTSA. Home defeats against USF and Wichita St.

(1) Tigers might not make their own AAC/conference tournament. Keeping Penny? (2) Tigers might not make their own AAC/conference tournament. Keeping Penny?

Feeling overwhelmed by a caseload that includes autism, childhood apraxia of speech, developmental language disorder, articulation, fluency, and AAC users… all back-to-back? You are not alone. Many speech-language pathologists walk into therapy sessions with a stack of different activities for every child. One game for articulation. Another for language. Another for fluency. Another for AAC. Before long, therapy starts to feel like running a fast-food counter. But what if you could run one powerful therapy routine that works for every child on your caseload? In this episode of The Preschool SLP Podcast, Kelly Vess shares the five-step therapy routine she uses every single day to deliver educationally rich, engaging sessions that treat the whole child while producing powerful gains across: • Speech sound production • Language development • Literacy skills • AAC use • Executive function • Motor planning and coordination Instead of pulling ten different activities from behind the therapy table, this routine uses one structured activity and simply changes the treatment target to match each child's goals. Built on principles from Universal Design for Learning, motor learning, and executive function research, this approach allows clinicians to work smarter, not harder. You will learn: • The five predictable therapy steps Kelly uses with every child • How to use one activity to treat speech, language, AAC, literacy, and fluency • Why predictable routines help children feel safe, regulated, and ready to learn • How task-oriented movement improves executive function and engagement • Why treating the whole child instead of just the mouth produces stronger outcomes When therapy is predictable, engaging, and multimodal, both the clinician and the child can be fully present. And that is when the magic happens. Join the SIS Membership If you love practical therapy frameworks like this, the SIS Membership was built for you. Each week inside SIS you receive: • Ready-to-use movement-based therapy activities • Powerful complex speech and language treatment targets • A growing treatment target library you can use with any caseload • A full literacy, language, and movement Google Slides deck for therapy, classrooms, or teletherapy Everything is designed to help busy SLPs deliver high-impact therapy without spending hours planning. Many members prep their entire week of therapy in less than one hour. Join today and receive the entire Treatment Target Library immediately: https://www.kellyvess.com/sis with you in this,

Hour one of 3 Man Front with Pat Smith, Conrad Van Order and Molly Robinson included UAB basketball capping off their regular season with a perfect AAC road record, honoring the legendary HC Lou Holtz, and our visit with Scott Hamilton! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

USF vs. Memphis College Basketball Pick Prediction by Tony T. USF vs. Memphis Profiles USF at Memphis 9PM ET—USF has a mark of 21-8 overall and 13-3 in the AAC with road wins against North Texas, Tulsa, UAB, Tulane, Wichita ST as well as Rice. A road loss at Temple. Memphis is 12-17 with 7-9 in the AAC with home wins against North Texas, Temple, UTSA, FAU as well as Charlotte. Home losses against Tulane, UAB and Wichita St.

Fabio De Luigi e Virginia Raffaele sono gli ospiti di questa puntata di Andiamo al cinema con Roberto Recchioni per parlare di Un bel giorno.Dalla comicità gentile del film a quella più aggressiva della televisione, dal rapporto con la verità alle “piccole ipocrisie quotidiane”, fino al momento più fragile del mestiere: quando sali sul palco e la risata non arriva.Si parla di misura, di ritmo, di pignoleria sul set, di fiducia tra attore e regista, di bugie bianche e di quanto sia difficile far ridere senza graffiare.Un episodio brillante, ironico e sorprendentemente riflessivo.

The Current catches up with a couple four-year seniors in Tulane basketball about their journeys as Tulane student-athletes. Paul Boron sits down with Amira Mabry and Jaylee Womack for a joint conversation about their four years together. Corey Gloor is joined by Jake Shapiro about his road from walk-on to Tulane graduate.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this week's episode, we speak with Amanda Hartmann about her experience with developing skills and confidence when working with AAC users. Amanda reflects on the changes over the time she has been a speech pathologist and shares some of her learnings. Speech Pathology Australia acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of lands, seas and waters throughout Australia, and offers our respect to Elders, across all times and places. The Speak Up podcast recognises the central role of yarning and oral storytelling in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, how this translates to knowledge translation, and that colonisation has interrupted these practices of Language and knowledge sharing. The Speak Up podcast acknowledges the need for truth-telling and deep listening, the central role that Language plays in connecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Culture, Country, and Community, and the interwoven nature of health, and social and emotional wellbeing. We recognise that the Traditional Owners of the Lands across Australia have been here since time immemorial, and that their sovereignty over this land, was never ceded. Free access to transcripts, as well as a full list of resources and references for this podcast, is available via the SPA Learning Hub (https://learninghub.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/). You will need to sign in or create an account. For more information, please see our Bio, or for further enquiries, email speakuppodcast@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au Disclaimer: © (2026) The Speech Pathology Association of Australia Limited. All rights reserved. Important Notice, Please read: The views expressed in this presentation and reproduced in these materials are not necessarily the views of, or endorsed by, The Speech Pathology Association of Australia Limited (“the Association”). The Association makes no warranty or representation in relation to the content, currency or accuracy of any of the materials comprised in this recording. The Association expressly disclaims any and all liability (including liability for negligence) in respect of use of these materials and the information contained within them. The Association recommends you seek independent professional advice prior to making any decision involving matters outlined in this recording including in any of the materials referred to or otherwise incorporated into this recording. Except as otherwise stated, copyright and all other intellectual property rights comprised in the presentation and these materials, remain the exclusive property of the Association. Except with the Association's prior written approval you must not, in whole or part, reproduce, modify, adapt, distribute, publish or electronically communicate (including by online means) this recording or any of these materials.

Show Notes: slpnow.com/251A caseload of 63 students doesn't tell the full story of your job. School-based SLPs juggle therapy, evaluations, IEP meetings, Medicaid billing, AAC programming, travel time, and more — yet capacity is often measured by one number. In this episode, we unpack the difference between caseload and workload, why “the math isn't mathing,” and how to shift the conversation with clarity and confidence.In this episode, you'll learn:The difference between caseload and workload (and why it matters)Four principles to manage impossible workloadsHow to protect your contract hours without guiltSimple ways to document and make your workload visibleHow to approach administrators with clear, objective dataIf paperwork and planning are part of your overwhelm, check out our free trial at slpnow.com/pod.

In this episode of Tank Talk, we sit down with Senior Environmental Consultant Leslie Pearson for a first-person account of the Exxon Valdez oil spill and how it reshaped spill prevention and response in Alaska and across the nation. Leslie shares her firsthand experience working on the response in 1989, from documenting shoreline impacts in Seward to navigating the early days of incident command and emergency operations. She reflects on the gaps in preparedness that were exposed, the challenges of working in remote environments, and what it was like to learn on the fly during one of the largest environmental disasters in U.S. history. The conversation explores how the spill led to the creation of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA 90), major revisions to SPCC and Facility Response Plan requirements, and Alaska's decision to implement some of the strictest spill prevention regulations in the country under 18 AAC 75. With decades of experience as both a regulator and consultant, Leslie explains why these regulations are more than paperwork - they are institutional memory designed to prevent history from repeating itself. This episode offers valuable perspective for environmental professionals, facility operators, and anyone working in spill prevention, preparedness, and compliance. Support the showintro/outro created with GarageBand

Hour 3 of March 3, 2026 Jacob Townsend and Bud are joined by Milligan women's basketball coach Kylie Russell Greer to talk about winning the AAC championship again. Then, they talk about The Athletic predicting who the college football coaches are at all the Power 4 school in 2030. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jacob Townsend and Bud are joined by Milligan women's basketball coach Kylie Russell Greer to talk about winning the AAC championship again.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Claire Samuels, a proud Autistic speech-language pathologist whose journey to self-recognition unfolded inside the very system she would later question.Claire began her career as a Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) in the ABA industry, believing what she was told: that ABA was the gold standard for Autistic children. She loved the kids she worked with and believed she was making a positive impact. But as she read autistic voices, learned about interoception, and began recognising her own sensory and regulatory differences, cracks in the framework began to show.Together, Angela and Claire explore ABA, nuance, Autistic self-recognition, masking, sensory processing, burnout, and what it means to move from compliance-based therapy to connection-based communication.This episode is about shifting lenses, from behaviour to nervous systems, from control to connection, and from moral judgment to regulation.

What do Gustav Eiffel and dynamic, tactile, temporal cueing have in common? Scaffolding, vision, and the courage to aim higher than anyone else. In this episode, I break down why Dynamic, Tactile, Temporal Cueing (DTTC) is not just for childhood apraxia of speech. It is a practical, high-impact framework that can upgrade how you treat: • Speech sound disorders • Language delays • Literacy skills • Fluency • AAC users • Autism and complex communication needs If you want maximal gains in minimal time, this episode is your blueprint. After standing beneath the Eiffel Tower and speaking at a packed state conference, one message hit me hard: the higher you aim, the bigger the cascade. When you treat at a complex level with the right scaffolds, earlier developing skills often come along for the ride. Inside this episode, we unpack: • Why fewer targets with higher reps build automaticity faster • How simultaneous production jump starts planning and reduces breakdowns • Why slowing time increases accuracy across speech, language, fluency, and AAC navigation • How to use most to least prompting without letting the tower fall • Why errorless learning and the 80 percent sweet spot matter • How multimodal cueing accelerates learning for every child • Why you build automaticity first and generalize later This is not business-as-usual therapy. This is challenge point therapy. This is how you stop grinding and start seeing real progress. Join SIS and get the complex targets done for you If you want powerful complex speech and language targets ready to pull into sessions immediately, join SIS Membership today. You will get access to high impact therapy materials designed to help you scaffold fast progress across speech, language, literacy, and AAC, without reinventing the wheel every week. Join here and get started today: https://www.kellyvess.com/sis Roll up your sleeves. Make the world better, one child at a time. With you in this,

In this week's episode, we speak with Philippa Edwards, head of special education, and Haley Moran-Green, speech pathologist, who have been collaborating on how to improve classroom engagement for students with complex communication needs (CCN), in a central Queensland school. Haley and Philippa discuss how they supported teachers to understand how to create an aided language display (ADL) specific to the lesson plan and the positive impact this has had on teachers and students alike. Resources: Kent-Walsh, J., & Mcnaughton, D. (2005). Communication Partner Instruction in AAC: Present Practices and Future Directions. Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 21(3), 195–204. https://doi.org/10.1080/07434610400006646 Senner, J., & Baud, M. (2016). The Use of an Eight-Step Instructional Model to Train School Staff in Partner-Augmented Input. Communication Disorders Quarterly. 38. https://doi.org/10.1177/1525740116651251 SPA resources: If you are looking for more AAC learning opportunities SPA members can access these at members prices: AAC skills lab series: https://learninghub.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/topclass/topclass.do?expand-OfferingDetails-Offeringid=1644067 Speech Pathology Australia acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of lands, seas and waters throughout Australia, and offers our respect to Elders, across all times and places. The Speak Up podcast recognises the central role of yarning and oral storytelling in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, how this translates to knowledge translation, and that colonisation has interrupted these practices of Language and knowledge sharing. The Speak Up podcast acknowledges the need for truth-telling and deep listening, the central role that Language plays in connecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Culture, Country, and Community, and the interwoven nature of health, and social and emotional wellbeing. We recognise that the Traditional Owners of the Lands across Australia have been here since time immemorial, and that their sovereignty over this land, was never ceded. Free access to transcripts for podcast episodes are available via the SPA Learning Hub (https://learninghub.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/), you will need to sign in or create an account. For more information, please see our Bio or for further enquiries, email speakuppodcast@speechpathologyaustralia.org.au Disclaimer: © (2026) The Speech Pathology Association of Australia Limited. All rights reserved. Important Notice, Please read: The views expressed in this presentation and reproduced in these materials are not necessarily the views of, or endorsed by, The Speech Pathology Association of Australia Limited (“the Association”). The Association makes no warranty or representation in relation to the content, currency or accuracy of any of the materials comprised in this recording. The Association expressly disclaims any and all liability (including liability for negligence) in respect of use of these materials and the information contained within them. The Association recommends you seek independent professional advice prior to making any decision involving matters outlined in this recording including in any of the materials referred to or otherwise incorporated into this recording. Except as otherwise stated, copyright and all other intellectual property rights comprised in the presentation and these materials, remain the exclusive property of the Association. Except with the Association's prior written approval you must not, in whole or part, reproduce, modify, adapt, distribute, publish or electronically communicate (including by online means) this recording or any of these materials.

If AAC has ever felt intimidating, you are not alone, and this episode is going to give you a clear, practical path forward.In this conversation, I sat down with Gabriella Wendling, an AAC specialist who has dedicated her entire career to assistive technology and augmentative communication. We talk honestly about how most of us received minimal AAC training in graduate school and how real confidence comes from experience, collaboration, and ongoing learning.We walk through what AAC evaluations actually look like, including timelines, feature matching, and access considerations like switches and eye gaze. Gabriella explains why getting the device is only the first step and why delays are often related to funding, not clinician performance.One of my favorite parts of this episode is our discussion about what happens after the device arrives. Gabriella shares her coaching-based model for training communication partners, including teachers and families. She emphasizes micro goals, small, meaningful targets that fit naturally into daily routines, so AAC becomes functional instead of overwhelming.We also tackle a hot topic around prompting and unpack why modeling and systematic prompting are essential for emergent communicators when done thoughtfully and ethically.If you want AAC implementation that is sustainable, collaborative, and truly supportive for students, this episode will leave you encouraged and equipped.#autism #speechtherapyWhat's Inside:What AAC evaluations really involveWhy communication partner coaching is criticalHow micro goals create meaningful progressA thoughtful discussion on prompting and independenceMentioned In This Episode:AAC & MeAAC & Me on InstagramEarn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech ConnectionABA Speech: Home

What if AAC feels heavy in your classroom, not because you're doing it wrong — but because you've been carrying pressure that was never meant to be there? In this episode, we reflect on what unfolded during AAC Bootcamp and explore the invisible weight educators, SLPs, and caregivers often carry when supporting AAC users. From second-guessing modeling to worrying about prompt dependency, progress monitoring, and team hesitation, this conversation gently reframes what AAC is actually meant to be. AAC is not about performance. It is about exposure. You'll hear real classroom examples of what modeling without expectation looked like in action, what shifted when adults removed pressure, and how teams began moving from urgency to presence. This episode centers regulation, access, and sustainability — because support works best when it fits daily life. In This Episode, You'll Learn • Why AAC often feels fragile or intimidating in school settings • The hidden performance pressure educators carry around communication • The difference between modeling for exposure and modeling for output • What modeling without expectation actually looks like in real routines • Why slow AAC growth is expected — and meaningful • How core boards increase language visibility across the classroom • What changes when devices become part of classroom culture • How to support paraprofessionals and team members in feeling confident with AAC • Why advocacy increases when educators feel clear and grounded • How shifting from outcomes to opportunities changes everything Key Takeaways • AAC is not about performance — it is about exposure • Modeling without expectation reduces pressure and builds trust • Communication grows through consistent, low-pressure modeling • Slow progress does not mean ineffective support • When nervous systems are supported, learning becomes possible • Language should be visible and available across routines • Confidence across teams increases access for students • Culture shifts happen when adults align around shared understanding • Access reduces pressure Try This • Choose one daily routine — snack, art, sensory bins, or transitions — and model one or two core words naturally without pausing for imitation • Place one core board in a high-use area to increase visual exposure • Share this phrase with your team: "We're modeling for exposure, not performance." • Focus on consistency over intensity Related Resources & Links Autism Little Learners Membership (includes full AAC Bootcamp replay): www.autismlittlelearners.com/pod AAC Companion Pack AAC Strategies: Building Buy-In to Help Teams Embrace AAC as a Child's Voice Gestalt Language Processing & Music Communication, Autism & AAC: Why AAC Is Not a Reward  AAC and Dysregulation: Why Kids Can't Use AAC When They're Dysregulated When adults move from pressure to presence, classrooms feel safer. When we trust exposure, language grows. Connection is the foundation.

Teammates Rowan Brumbaugh & Scotty Middleton interview each other on finishing the season strong, who on the team would help change a flat tire, and which one would win a game of 21.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

UAB vs. Memphis College Basketball Pick Prediction by Tony T. UAB vs. Memphis Profiles UAB at Memphis 12PM ET— UAB has a record of 17-10 with 8-6 in the AAC with road wins against USF, East Carolina, Tulane, UTSA, North Texas, Tulsa and Temple. No road losses in conference. Memphis is 12-14 with 7-6 in the AAC with home wins against North Texas, Temple, UTSA, FAU and Charlotte. A home loss against Tulane.

FAU vs. North Texas College Basketball Pick Prediction by Tony T. FAU vs. North Texas Profiles FAU at North Texas 4PM ET— FAU has a mark of 15-12 and 7-7 in the AAC with road losses against Tulane, USF, Memphis as well as Rice. Road wins against UAB, Temple and UTSA. North Texas is 15-12 along with 6-8 in the AAC with home losses against USF, East Carolina, UAB and Tulane. Home wins against Tulsa, UTSA and Memphis.

From Men's Basketball sitting atop the AAC to record-breaking performances in Track & Field and...

From Men's Basketball sitting atop the AAC to record-breaking performances in Track & Field and...

Tulane vs. North Texas College Basketball Pick Prediction by Tony T. Tulane vs. North Texas Profiles Tulane at North Texas 9PM ET—Tulane has a record of 15-10 on the year along with 6-6 in the AAC with road wins against UTSA, Memphis and UAB. Road defeats came against FAU and Charlotte. North Texas sits at 15-11 and 6-7 in the AAC with home losses against USF, Eastern Carolina and UAB. They won at home against Tulsa, UTSA and Memphis.

Meet Tulane's newest head coach... Dex Schroeder! Corey Gloor sits down with the new leader of Green Wave volleyball and his journey from Ontario to New Orleans and everywhere in between. Plus, what fans should expect to see from the Wave when they hit the floor this fall.2026 Tulane volleyball season tickets are now available! Head to tulanetix.com and get your seats today for just $50!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if your private practice could be a platform for change—for your clients and yourself?Today's guest didn't just start a private practice; she built a mission-driven business that blends speech therapy with fierce advocacy. She traded burnout for autonomy and now uses her voice to empower families navigating the complex world of IEPs.I'm so excited to introduce you to Colleen Ashford, a speech-language pathologist and one of the dedicated clinicians inside our Grow Your Private Practice Program. Colleen is the owner and founder of Ashford Speech and Advocacy PC, a mobile and virtual private practice based in Vista, California where she provides evaluations, treatment, consultations, and advocacy at IEP meetings.For Colleen, starting her own practice was about more than flexibility and income—it was about authentic, values-driven work. She has created a unique model that allows her to serve early intervention clients and act as a special education advocate, ensuring families are supported at every step.In this episode, Colleen reveals how leaving the constraints of clinic and school jobs allowed her to design a practice that fits her life, serves her community deeply, and lets her show up as her full, authentic self.Colleen Ashford is a licensed speech-language pathologist and certified special education advocate. After graduating from the University of Illinois with her bachelor's and Illinois State University with her master's, she began her career in a public elementary school with a bilingual program, which fueled her focus on improving her Spanish to better serve her students and families. Love brought her to Southern California, where she worked in multidisciplinary clinics alongside OTs and PTs, learning invaluable lessons about sensory and motor development that inform her holistic approach today.Now in her full-time practice, Colleen's areas of focus include AAC, Autism, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, and parent coaching in early intervention. She is passionate about providing culturally responsive early intervention services to the Spanish-speaking population in her own neighborhood. Always an advocate at her core—and now in title—Colleen equips every parent she serves with knowledge of their educational rights and how to navigate the world of special education. Beyond her community, she brings honest conversations about the IEP process to listeners everywhere through her podcast, Unfiltered IEPs.In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Leaving a "good job" to answer the craving for flexibility and authentic impactThe moment she realized her school-based experience was a superpower for families in needBuilding a hybrid practice with multiple revenue streams, from early intervention to AAC coachingHow embracing systems gave her back her time and freedomColleen is a powerful example of how you can design a practice that aligns with your deepest values. We are so grateful to have her wisdom and passion in our Grow Program. Her journey proves that with the right tools and community, you can build a career that doesn't just sustain you, but fulfills you.Want to build or scale a private practice that fuels your passion and gives you the autonomy you crave—just like Colleen? Discover how our Grow Your Private Practice...

Child-led support is often misunderstood. Some imagine it as a chaotic free-for-all where the child runs the show. Some worry it means abandoning all structure. In reality, a child-led approach is about moving from being a director to being a partner. In this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris sits down with speech-language pathologist Nicole Casey to dismantle the compliance-based models of therapy that have dominated the field for decades. Nicole explains how shifting the focus from "fixing" speech to fostering authentic connection creates deeper buy-in and faster generalization of skills. They discuss Gestalt Language Processing (GLP), why we need to stop writing "80% accuracy" goals, and how using rubrics can revolutionize the way parents and educators track meaningful progress. TAKEAWAYS Child-led is an approach that centers the child's interests and experiences, removing arbitrary adult-directed rules (like "sit still") to prioritize safety, connection, and agency. Speech is just one form of communication, but gestures, hand-leading, and AAC play major roles in communication. Some children learn language in chunks or scripts tied to emotional context. Goals based on 80% accuracy are arbitrary and often measure compliance rather than authentic communication. Using rubrics allows teams to track the quality and autonomy of a skill (e.g., self-advocacy) across different contexts, offering a visual and qualitative way to see growth. Before enforcing a direction, ask, "Does this rule actually serve the child, or is it just for my convenience?" The Educator Hub opens the week of February 16! Go here for more info, and if you'd like, you can be alerted the minute it opens. Nicole Casey, MS, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, educator, and the founder of The Child-Led SLP and Child-Led Therapy Center. She is widely recognized for her work in shifting speech therapy away from compliance-based approaches and toward connection-first, neuroaffirming support for autistic children. Nicole's approach empowers adults to follow the child's lead, honor all forms of communication, and focus on building authentic relationships as the foundation for meaningful progress. Through her online courses, membership community, and Let Them Lead podcast, she is helping parents and professionals reimagine what effective, compassionate therapy can truly look like. BACKGROUND READING Nicole's Facebook, Instagram, Let Them Lead podcast (via Apple Podcasts) The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you're invited to join our Facebook Group. For more information go to www.NeurodiversityPodcast.com. If you'd like members of your organization, school district, or company to know more about the subjects discussed on our podcast, Emily Kircher-Morris provides keynote addresses, workshops, and training sessions worldwide, in-person or virtually. You can choose from a list of established presentations, or work with Emily to develop a custom talk to fit your unique situation. To learn more, visit our website.

Memphis vs. North Texas College Basketball Pick Prediction by Tony T. Memphis vs. North Texas Profiles Memphis at North Texas 9PM ET—Memphis is 12-11 overall and 7-4 in the AAC with road wins against Rice and UAB. They lost on the road against FAU, Tulsa and Wichita St. North Texas sits at 13-11

Tulane baseball is here! We're getting you ready for the 2026 Sluggerbirds as Corey Gloor sits down with head coach Jay Uhlman to discuss all the new pieces to this team, the key veterans he'll be leaning on and this year's challenging schedule. Then, two of the newcomers introduce themselves... pitcher Beau Sampson and Nolan Nawrocki.Catch every pitch of the 2026 Tulane baseball season! Download the Varsity Network app and join us all Spring long!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

January felt heavy. So instead of pretending we had it all figured out, we talked honestly about what we wish we'd known earlier.In this kickoff episode of What We Wish We'd Known, Heather, Micah, and Mercedes reflect on lessons that only come with time, experience, and a lot of unlearning.In this episode, we talk about:Letting go of milestone pressure, assuming competence, and unlearning ableismRethinking inclusion, communication (including AAC), and what real support looks likeIdentity, advocacy, and why the goal was never a “poster child” — just a whole humanThis episode is part reflection and part reset. Whether you're brand new or years into this journey, we hope it gives you permission to breathe, recalibrate, and keep learning.

What if your private practice could not only fill a critical gap in your community but also give you the freedom to design your ideal work week? Today's guest turned a lifelong personal connection into a thriving practice that serves an often-overlooked population, and her journey from side hustle to clinic owner is packed with wisdom!I'm thrilled to introduce you to Grace Hedgecock, a pediatric speech-language pathologist and the passionate owner of Hedgehog Speech Therapy in Saratoga in the Bay Area in California.For Grace, private practice was more than a career goal—it was a calling rooted in family. Inspired by her autistic brother, Grace has spent her career specializing in autism, social communication, gestalt language processing, AAC, and supporting autistic teens and young adults with real-life skills in work, relationships, and identity. She is also passionate about literacy after discovering her own dyslexia as an adult.By embracing flexibility and a client-centered approach, she has built a practice that supports her professional passions and personal well-being, proving you can build a business that fits your life, not the other way around. She serves families through evaluations, therapy, screenings, and neurodiversity-affirming parent coaching.In this episode, Grace shares how her personal experience shaped her career path, the strategic steps she took to launch her practice, and how she structures her days to avoid burnout.She is passionate to help children and families understand their unique mind, remove stigma, and grow in confidence. When she's not in the clinic, Grace enjoys collaborating with her engineer husband on future tech ideas for the field and soaking up time with her dog.In Today's Episode, We Discuss:The pivotal moment of leaping into full-time private practice, trusting her faith without a clear safety netStrategically using preschool screenings to build trust with schools and generate referralsDesigning her ideal schedule to prevent burnout and serve both early intervention and older autistic clientsGrace's story is a beautiful reminder that your unique experiences are your greatest asset in private practice. We are so inspired by her clarity and heart-centered approach.Want to build a practice that aligns with your passions and gives you control over your time—just like Grace has? The Start Your Private Practice Program can give you the tools and step-by-step guidance to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com.Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.Resources Mentioned:Follow Grace on Instagram: instagram.com/hedgehogspeech/Check out her website: hedgehogspeech.comWhere We Can...

Rice vs. UAB College Basketball Pick Prediction by Tony T Rice vs. UAB Profiles Rice at UAB 3PM ET—Rice has a record of 10-13 on the year and 4-6 in the AAC with road victories against Wichita ST, UTSA and East Carolina. Losses on the road came against Tulsa and Charlotte. UAB is 14-9 and 5-5 in the AAC with no home conference wins. They lost at home against Wichita St, FAU, Tulsa, USF and Memphis. In conference they won all five on the road and lost all five at home.

Charlotte vs. Memphis College Basketball Pick Prediction by Tony T. Charlotte vs. Memphis Profiles Charlotte at Memphis 2PM ET—Charlotte has a mark of 13-10 on the campaign and 7-3 in the AAC with road wins against UTSA, Rice, East Carolina as well as Temple. They lost on the road against Wichita St. Memphis is 11-11 this year and 6-4 in the AAC with wins at home against North Texas, Temple, UTSA as well as FAU. A loss at home came against Tulane.

Wichita St vs. Tulane College Basketball Pick Prediction by Tony T. Wichita St vs. Tulane Profiles Wichita St at Tulane 2PM ET—Wichita St has a record of 14-9 and 6-4 in the AAC with road wins against UAB as well as USF. They lost on the road against Charlotte, FAU and Tulsa. Tulane is 13-9 on the campaign and 4-5 in the AAC with home win against FAU. They lost at home against North Texas, UAB and USF.

The Interdisciplinary Meeting of Antimicrobial Resistance and Innovation has launched! The first version of IMARI brought together researchers, clinicians, industry leaders and policymakers to address one of the greatest challenges in modern medicine: antimicrobial resistance" Check the highlights at IMARI.org and prepare for IMARI 2017 from January 27-29, 2027! The inaugural amazing conference took place in Las Vegas. This is the forst time that ASM and IDSA collaborate together in a scientific meeting. One of the sessions involved an unprecedent collaboration between two journals AAC and JID published by each society. To celebrate this achievement we had a session of the best AMR papers of 2025 for AAC and JID. This session will be presented here as apart of our series.  Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/XRYl7863z34 Objectives: - Review the best papers and topics of AMR in 2025 form AAC and JID. - Discuss the context of each finding and contributions to the AMR community - Elaborate on the implications for AMR, novelties and how the field is advancing. Guests:  - Ayesha Khan, Ph.D.  Assistant Professor, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine and Associate Director, Division of Clinical Microbiology Biomedical & Translational Research Track. Principal Investigator, UC3P UCI Prime Pre-Health Pathways Program. - Madison Stellfox, M.D. Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA.  Links:  Links: AAC A microbiological and structural analysis of the interplay between sulbactam/durlobactam and imipenem against penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) of Acinetobacter spp. https://doi.org/10.1128/aac.01627-24 JID Ampicillin/Sulbactam in Combination with Ceftazidime/Avibactam Against Metallo-β-Lactamase-Producing Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: A Genomics-Informed Mechanism-based model https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiaf567 AAC Advancements in the fight against globally distributed OXA-48 carbapenemase: evaluating the new generation of carbapenemase inhibitors https://doi.org/10.1128/aac.01614-24 JID Daptomycin-Loaded Nanocarriers Facilitate Synergistic Killing of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus via Lipid-Mediated Interactions and Targeting https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiaf492 AAC Amoxicillin-non-susceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae causing invasive pneumonia: serotypes, clones, and clinical impact https://doi.org/10.1128/aac.00237-25 JID Blood Cultures Contain Populations of Genetically Diverse Candida albicans Strains that May Differ in Echinocandin Tolerance and Fitness https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiaf495 AAC Antibiofilm activity of manogepix, ibrexafungerp, amphotericin B, rezafungin, and caspofungin against Candida spp. biofilms of reference and clinical strains https://doi.org/10.1128/aac.00137-25 JID Engineered Mycobacteriophage TM4::GeNL Rapidly Determines Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, Linezolid, Rifampicin, and Clofazimine Sensitivity in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Clinical Isolates https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiae438 AAC Emergence of antibiotic-specific Mycobacterium tuberculosis phenotypes during prolonged treatment of mice https://doi.org/10.1128/aac.01310-24 JID The Changing Paradigm in Infectious Diseases—Host-Directed Medicine: Implications for the Next Generation of ID Physicians https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiaf497 JID Triggering Toll-Like Receptor 5 Signaling During Pneumococcal Superinfection Prevents the Selection of Antibiotic Resistance https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiae239 IMARI Conference This episode is brought to you by the Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy journal available at https://asm.org/aac.  If you plan to publish in AAC, ASM Members get up to 50% off publishing fees. Visit https://asm.org/joinasm to sign up. Visit https://asm.org/aac to browse issues and/or submit a manuscript. Follow Cesar on twitter at https://twitter.com/SuperBugDoc for AAC updates. 

As we hit the midway point of conference play, Corey Gloor sits down with head coach Ron Hunter on his team's win in Memphis to end a skid and how this team has forged a bond after tragedy in the summer. Then, four-year center Percy Daniels on his evolution from true freshman to senior captain, and now father.Tickets are available for the stretch run of the 2025-26 season! Head to tulanetix.com and join is in Uptown for the final month of the year!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jessica Smetana joins for a supersized episode. First, we run through the news on Aaron Henry and Brian Jean-Mary reportedly being added to the Fighting Irish staff, Notre Dame's relationship with the ACC and a College Football Playoff schedule that has somehow gotten worse. Then (25:45) a pivot to discussing every single new head coaching hire in FBS, starting with the Big Ten and ending with UConn. Included: Questions for Sparty, strange goings-on at Utah, some fun moves by the Big XII, the SEC raiding the AAC, "The Americans," a few small morning beers, Stanford's curious hire, MAC scandals and high hopes for the new faces in the new Pac-12. Sign up for the newsletter and/or browse the merch here: https://linktr.ee/rakesreport  

In this episode, we're talking about what truly changes when AAC is modeled all day—not just during instruction, but during play, routines, transitions, and real-life moments. So often, AAC is treated as something that happens only at the table or during therapy. But when modeling AAC becomes part of the entire day, communication shifts from a task to a relationship. This episode explores how modeling AAC without expectation builds regulation, engagement, trust, and spontaneous communication over time. In this episode, you'll learn: What "all-day AAC modeling" actually means (and what it doesn't) Why modeling AAC throughout the day supports regulation and engagement How modeling without expectation reduces pressure for kids and adults Examples of AAC use during play, routines, and transitions Why AAC devices and core boards should be available beyond instruction How consistent modeling supports spontaneous communication Why relationships grow stronger when communication is modeled relationally Common reasons adults stop modeling AAC—and why consistency matters Key takeaways: Modeling AAC all day means access across the entire day Communication grows through exposure, not pressure Modeling without expectation builds safety and trust AAC works best when it's part of daily life, not a special activity Try this today: Choose one routine (snack, play, or transitions) and commit to modeling AAC there for a week Model on a core board or AAC device without prompting or expecting a response Notice engagement, connection, and regulation—not how many buttons are pressed Want support modeling AAC all day? If you want to feel more confident using AAC beyond structured moments, you don't have to figure it out alone. My AAC Bootcamp is designed to help educators and caregivers model AAC naturally across the entire day—during play, routines, and real-life moments—without pressure or perfection. When AAC is modeled all day, communication stops being a task—and starts becoming a relationship. Links & Related Podcast Episodes (Lindsay, can you add related podcasts?) Visual Schedule Pictures Resource Visual Schedule Information Visual Schedules Made Easy Course  

Episode Summary In this episode, Diana Pastora Carson talks with Tiffany Hammond—autistic advocate, creator of Fidgets & Fries, and author of the #1 New York Times bestselling picture book A Day with No Words. Tiffany shares why she leads with stories instead of stats, how online “purity tests” can erase nuance, and what true access looks like when we presume competence and make room for multiple ways of communicating. Together, they explore disability identity, language, safety, and belonging—especially for nonspeaking autistic people and for families navigating systems that often punish difference. Tiffany leaves listeners with a clear reminder: everyone has a place. About the Guest Tiffany Hammond is an autistic author and advocate known for her platform Fidgets & Fries and her work uplifting disability justice, communication access, and authentic belonging. She is the author of A Day with No Words. What You'll Hear in This Episode Why Tiffany uses storytelling to shift disability understanding and fight dehumanization How to think about AAC and nonspeaking communication without pity or “inspiration” tropes Why “language wars” miss the point—and what to focus on instead The real-world consequences of disability disclosure, identity, and safety What it means to create communities where people don't have to “earn” belonging Quotes “Stories move people in ways statistics can't.” “Everyone has a place.” “Communication is communication—speech isn't the only valid form.” Resources & Links Tiffany Hammond Website: https://www.tiffanyhammond.com/ About: https://www.tiffanyhammond.com/about Substack (Tiffy, In Bloom): https://tiffyinbloom.substack.com/ Books A Day with No Words (publisher page): https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/day-with-no-words-9781547619351/ A Day with No Words (book site): https://www.adaywithnowords.com/ Featured / Mentioned ABILITY Magazine (sponsor): https://abilitymagazine.com/ National Professional Resources / Beyond Disability Awareness (referenced): https://nprinc.com/beyond-disability-awareness/ Listener Takeaway If we want “disability awareness” to stop reinforcing old tropes, we have to move beyond feel-good lessons and toward access—including access to communication, dignity, and community that doesn't require people to perform or prove their worth Stay Connected with Diana Diana's Website, including blog Free Resource - 5 Keys to Going Beyond Awareness Free Resource - How to Talk with Kids about Disability Beyond Awareness: Bringing Disability into Diversity in K-12 Schools & Communities - Diana's Book Ed Roberts: Champion of Disability Rights - Diana's Children's Book Ed Roberts: Champion of Disability Rights Thematic Unit/ Disability History Lesson Plans "Beyond Awareness" Digital Course Diana's TEDx Talk Beyond Awareness Facebook Page Diana on Instagram Beyond Awareness Tote Bag Beyond Awareness Pullover Hoodie Beyond Awareness Raglan Baseball T-Shirt Beyond Awareness Journal/Notebook Diana's Teachers Pay Teachers Store - Disability as Diversity Diana's Trifold Laminated Resource: Beyond Disability Awareness: An Educator's Guide, Published by National Professional Resources, Inc. (NPR, Inc.) Credits and Image Description Intro and outro music courtesy of Emmanuel Castro. Podcast cover photo by Rachel Schlesinger Photography. Podcast cover image description: Black and white photograph of Diana, a Spanish-American woman with long, wavy, brown hair. She is wearing a flowy, white blouse and smiles at camera as she leans against wooden building. Photo is colorfully framed with gold and orange rays of seeming sunshine on top half, and with solid sage green color on bottom half. Text reads "Beyond Awareness: Disability Awareness That Matters, Diana Pastora Carson, M.Ed."

Is there anything to the latest batch of Mavs trade whispers? Why the Mavericks should be patient and not just accept the first offer on certain players, and what their outlook is going forward after another tough loss last night at the AAC.

If you work with preschoolers with autism and you care about spoken language outcomes, this episode matters. A lot. In today's episode of The Preschool SLP Podcast, we unpack the largest study to date examining why some autistic children do not develop spoken language, even after receiving high-quality, evidence-based early intervention. The takeaway is blunt: Motor imitation doesn't matter a little. It matters a lot. Inside this episode, we cover: Why one-third of autistic preschoolers in a large, multi-site study did not advance in spoken language despite receiving ~10 hours/week of evidence-based intervention How motor imitation emerged as a key distinguishing factor between children who advanced in speech and those who did not What neuroscience tells us about mirror neurons, empathy, perspective-taking, and speech development Why speech develops from the inside out: core → proximal → distal → speech. And, what happens when we skip the body and go straight to the mouth How motor imitation supports: Entry into peer play Social communication Speech motor planning and execution Prefrontal–cerebellar connectivity Why this research gives us a “crystal ball”—not to maintain the status quo, but to do something different earlier You can't build speech on a system that can't yet support posture, movement, imitation, and motor planning. If motor imitation is weak, speech outcomes are at risk, pretending otherwise doesn't help children. Clinical bottom line: If a child presents with: Severe autism presentation Limited or absent spoken language Poor motor imitation Then motor imitation must be intentionally built into intervention, alongside AAC, multimodal cueing, movement-based learning, and robust communication supports. This episode challenges us to stop treating mouths—and start treating children.

What if the people we overlook in church are the ones God calls indispensable? What if disability isn't a barrier to ministry, but a doorway to rediscovering the heart of Christ? Inclusion isn't just about access—it's about transformation. In a world shaped by ability and performance, the church has a chance to lead differently. This episode explores how embracing those with disabilities can reshape our communities, renew our mission, and reveal the true nature of the gospel. Our guest today is Russ Ewell. Russ is an author, minister, and social entrepreneur, as well as the lead pastor of Bay Area Christian Church. As a father to sons with Autism and Down Syndrome, he has found purpose in overcoming human limits through family, faith, and technology. As CEO of Digital Scribbler and founder of Hope Technology Group, E-Sports, and Deep Spirituality, he has created tools and communities that empower the silenced and marginalized. His work in AAC tech, inclusive sports, and spiritual leadership has earned a Jefferson Award and Congressional Citation. He inspires transformative thinking, leadership, and a personal, powerful relationship with God. Please send us your feedback and questions to: podcast@summit.org

Prompting AAC is abuse? Let's talk about that and a few other AAC conversations that keep coming up again and again.In today's solo episode, I'm diving into five hot topics in AAC that have been surfacing repeatedly in my recent calls, trainings, and collaboration meetings. After more than 20 years as a speech therapist and being dually certified as a BCBA, I've seen how confusing, overwhelming, and sometimes divisive AAC conversations can become. I also remember very clearly when AAC felt intimidating to me too.This episode is about cutting through the noise, grounding ourselves in research, and having better, more collaborative conversations about AAC. I share real scenarios clinicians are facing right now, from AAC evaluations that drag on far too long to device access barriers to strong opinions about prompting that simply don't align with the science. My goal is to help you feel more confident, more informed, and better equipped to advocate for your students and clients.Whether you're newer to AAC or have years of experience, these topics matter. AAC is a student's voice, and we have a responsibility to protect, support, and expand it in thoughtful, ethical ways.#autism #speechtherapyWhat's Inside:Why AAC evaluations should be thorough, but not take nine months, and what may be going wrong when they doHow to approach parent-purchased devices, including those bought online, with collaboration instead of fearThe ongoing core versus fringe vocabulary debate, and why research supports using bothWhy prompting is a teaching tool, not abuse, and how misinformation can harm collaboration and progressMentioned In This Episode:Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech ConnectionTake the All About AAC bundleABA Speech: Home

In this episode, we're unpacking a common—and harmful—myth in autism and AAC support: the idea that communication must be earned. You'll hear why treating AAC as a reward makes regulation harder, not easier—and how unconditional access to communication supports regulation, trust, and participation, especially during autism meltdowns. This episode reframes AAC as access, not a behavior strategy, and offers practical ways to support communication during real-life moments of distress. In this episode, you'll learn: Why AAC should never be used as a reward How communication and regulation are deeply connected in autism What happens when AAC is removed during autism meltdowns Common autism meltdown causes related to communication breakdown Why withholding an AAC device can increase distress and shutdown How AAC supports self-advocacy and emotional safety What modeling AAC during dysregulation can look like (without pressure) How shifting adult mindset changes long-term outcomes Key takeaways: Communication is a basic human right, not something children earn AAC supports regulation instead of waiting for it Withholding communication can increase meltdowns and reduce trust Modeling AAC without expectation builds safety and access Try this today: Keep the AAC device available during moments of frustration or distress Model one regulation-related word (help, stop, or all done) without expecting a response Honor protests and communication attempts as meaningful Want support using AAC with confidence? If you're realizing AAC has been used conditionally—or you're unsure how to support communication during hard moments—you're not alone. My AAC Bootcamp is designed to help educators and caregivers confidently model AAC across the entire day, including transitions, play, and moments of dysregulation. AAC doesn't need to be perfect to be powerful. When communication is always available, regulation becomes more possible—for everyone. Links & Related Podcast Episodes (Lindsay, can you add related podcasts?) AAC Bootcamp Registration AAC Devices In The Classroom AAC - Getting Team Buy In  

Using People…For God's Glory? In this episode of the Centering, hosts Yulee Lee and Daniel Lee are joined by special guest Dr. Kevin Doi, Director of Pastoral Formation at the AAC and Affiliate Assistant Professor of Asian American Church Studies at Fuller Seminary. The conversation delves into the temptation to use people for ministry growth, the importance of honoring individual callings, and creating a church environment focused on relational health rather than numerical growth. The episode highlights practical strategies for both recognizing and countering toxic ministry practices in church leadership. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 00:47 Understanding Toxic Ministry for God's Glory 02:29 Guest Introduction: Dr. Kevin Doi 04:23 The Familiarity of Oppression in Ministry 06:39 The Challenge of Healthy Boundaries 09:19 Rethinking Church Growth and Leadership 15:45 The Importance of Relational Ministry 25:11 The Role of Ministry Beyond Church Walls 25:57 Challenges of Church Leadership 27:12 Personal Experiences in Church Dynamics 29:29 The Pressure of Metrics in Ministry 32:20 Rethinking Church Leadership and Community 40:30 Practical Steps for Healthy Ministry 47:29 Concluding Thoughts and Next Episode Preview Asian American Pastoral Formation Initiative https://aac.fuller.edu/initiatives/pastoral-formation-initiative/ Leadership and the New Science by Margaret Wheatley https://margaretwheatley.com/books/leadership-and-the-new-science/ Fall 2026 Asian American Ministry Doctor of Ministry cohort, mentored by Dr. Kevin Doi and Dr. Daniel Lee https://fuller.edu/dmin/fall-2026-asian-american-ministry-cohort/ If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac

In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott are joined by hypnotherapist and breathwork practitioner Ashley Bentley to unpack the release of “Autistic Barbie” by Mattel — and why representation isn't always as simple as it sounds.Rather than rejecting the doll outright, the conversation explores the risks of giving autism a visual “look.” Jordan explains why his concern isn't about the happiness some children feel, but about how quickly a single doll can turn a diverse neurotype into a checklist of stereotypes — headphones, fidgets, AAC devices — and what that means for autistic children who don't identify with those traits.The episode also tackles corporate tokenism, performative inclusion, and why an accessory pack or a customisable approach could have offered representation without defining autism by appearance. The conversation expands to include social media reactions, satire, and how both praise and backlash can perpetuate harmful narratives.They discuss:The release of “Autistic Barbie” and mixed reactionsWhy visualising a neurotype is inherently problematicBarbie as imagination vs Barbie as diagnosisRepresentation vs tokenism and corporate motivesThe idea of an accessory pack over a single “autistic” dollA thoughtful, funny, and challenging conversation about representation, identity, and why good intentions don't always lead to good outcomes.Our Sponsors:

The Current returns for the spring semester! As the Wave gets ready for a matchup with the top team in the American, Paul Boron catches up with head coach Ashley Langford and how she has seen her team improve every time on the floor in conference play. Plus, veteran guard CC Mays on adjusting to her first year in Uptown, and sophomore Kendall Sneed reminisces on her Freshman of the Year campaign, and what she has seen from the freshmen in the backcourt this year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we're talking about the powerful connection between AAC and dysregulation—and why regulation is access to communication. So often, AAC is treated as a skill kids are expected to use only when they're calm and regulated. But when a child is dysregulated, overwhelmed, or in survival mode, accessing any form of communication—spoken or AAC—is incredibly hard. This episode reframes AAC as an access tool, not a reward, and explores what it really means to support communication during hard moments. In this episode, you'll learn: Why AAC use often breaks down during dysregulation How the nervous system impacts access to communication Why "calm first, communication later" is a harmful myth How AAC can support regulation, not wait for it What happens when AAC is removed during meltdowns Why consistent AAC access builds trust and reduces frustration How to model AAC during dysregulation without pressure or expectation Simple shifts that make AAC more accessible across the day Key takeaways: Dysregulation limits access to communication for all children AAC should be available during hard moments—not withheld Communication supports regulation; it's not something kids earn Modeling AAC without expectation builds trust and long-term access Try this today: Keep AAC available during moments of dysregulation, even if it's not used Model one regulation-related word (like help, stop, or all done) without expecting a response Notice engagement and trust before output—communication grows from safety Want support making AAC truly accessible? If AAC has only been used during calm or structured moments, you're not alone. My AAC visuals and AAC Bootcamp are designed to help educators and caregivers confidently model AAC throughout the entire day—including transitions, play, and moments of dysregulation. AAC doesn't require perfection. It requires access. Links & Related Podcast Episodes (Lindsay, can you add related podcasts?) AAC Bootcamp Registration AAC & Protests Getting Started With AAC Child Interest Survey - find what lights a child up!  

Hallie chats with Malka Arnstein about making AAC more accessible for communication partners.In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with Malka Arnstein — SLP, private practice owner, and AAC specialist on a mission to make AAC less intimidating and way more accessible. Malka gets real about the judgment that can creep into AAC work, why reframing it as just another communication tool changes everything, and how modeling for adults (not just kids) is where the magic happens. She talks about working with dysregulated students, pushing into classrooms instead of pulling out, and why showing up with fun and connection beats perfect data every time. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by AAC or like you're just winging it, this episode is packed with practical tips and plenty of "just do it and you'll be great" vibes.Bullet Points to Discuss: Why AAC is just a communication tool — and reframing it that way makes all the difference How to make AAC accessible for SLPs, teachers, paras, and parents (not just users) The power of modeling for adults, not just kids — show, don't tell What it looks like to work with dysregulated students and build trust from a distance Why pushing into classrooms instead of pulling out changes everything How to ditch the data obsession for a minute and focus on fun and connection What "modeling without expectations" actually means in practiceHere's what we learned: AAC isn't scary—it's just a tool, and reframing it that way changes everything. Accessibility isn't just for users; teachers, paras, and parents need it to be usable too. Model for the adults, not just the kids—show them how it's done in real time. Push into classrooms instead of pulling out—let the team see AAC in action. With dysregulated students, start from a distance and let trust build slowly. Ditch the data sheets for a minute—fun and connection come first. If it's not joyful, take a step back and adjust your approach.Learn more about Malka Arnstein: Website: http://www.speakingaac.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakingaac/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/973643611365308Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Speaking-AAC/61568405591784/Teachers Pay Teachers: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/speakingaac-llcAAC Information CardLearn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate: