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Discover what happens when SLPs and Educational Audiologists team up.Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YoutubeIn celebration of World Hearing Day, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, welcomes Courtney Turner, AuD, CCC-A, for an important conversation about collaboration in hearing care. Courtney breaks down what Educational Audiologists actually do, how they assess and support children with different types of hearing loss. From technology to teamwork, you will gain a clearer understanding of how partnering with an Educational Audiologist can strengthen outcomes for children with hearing differences.About the Guest: Dr. Courtney Turner is a board-certified pediatric audiologist based in Hattiesburg, MS. She has worked at The Children's Center for Communication and Development at the University of Southern Mississippi since 2015, providing clinical and educational audiology services to children from birth through age 5 across southern Mississippi.Show Notes:Contact Courtney Turner: @cg_turner on InstagramPadapillo by Valerie James AbbottEducational Audiology AssociationChildren Center for Communication and Development at The University of Southern MississippiMentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Cognitive Communication Disorders Seminar
Guest: Joshua A. Shah, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode: Complete the accompanying course online with Speech Therapy PDWatch this episode on Youtube: Initiation with Filmmaker and SLP Joshua ShahIn a First Bite first, host Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, sits down with Joshua A. Shah, MS, CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist, filmmaker, and the creative force behind the upcoming film Initiation, a fictional narrative inspired by lived experiences related to stuttering and communication differences. Joshua and Michelle explore the responsibilities that come with representing communication differences accurately and compassionately and how language, storytelling, and visibility shape public understanding. Together, they examine the connection between communication and power, including how representation can influence whose voices are valued, amplified, or marginalized. Tune in now for a thoughtful, timely conversation, and stay tuned for the film that sparked it.About the Guest(s): Joshua A. Shah is a filmmaker from Fremont, California. He currently serves as a home health speech-language pathologist, primarily working with individuals with neurological and communication impairments. He's become inspired to bring the narratives of individuals with communication challenges to the silver screen and is dedicated to crafting these stories with both accuracy and creativity, challenging the current media landscape with empathetic storytelling.Show Notes:Contact Joshua: @shahjosh on InstagramLove Money Cause: @initiationshortfilm on Instagram“Initiation” Short Film: seedandspark.com/fund/initiation2026#storyThe Stuttering Foundation: www.stutteringhelp.orgSPACE | Stuttering Organization: www.spacetostutter.org and @spacetostutter on InstagramThe Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat: www.oliversacks.com/oliver-sacks-books/the-man-who-mistook-his-wife-for-a-hat/My Stroke of Insight: mystrokeofinsight.com/index.htmlThe Sound of Metal: www.imdb.com/title/tt5363618/American Association for People with Disabilities: www.aapd.comAble South Carolina: www.able-sc.orgFirst Bite Podcast: Subscribe and listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast
In this episode of The Untethered Podcast, Hallie Bulkin sits down with Beth R Poe, MA, CCC-SLP , a certified pediatric feeding therapist and the founder of Way to Grow Therapy. Beth shares her inspiring transition from clinical certification to the launch of her own private practice, proving that with the right foundation, you can turn a clinical passion into a thriving business.The conversation goes beyond just "starting a business." Beth and Hallie pull back the curtain on the realities of working with medically complex infants, specifically those navigating Congenital Heart Disease (CHD). They discuss why feeding therapy for these "heart warriors" requires a specialized lens, the vital role of natural environments in therapy, and why your network of fellow therapists is your greatest clinical asset. Whether you are dreaming of opening your own doors or looking to sharpen your skills with complex cases, this episode is your roadmap for growth.UNPACKING THE EPISODE: WHAT YOU'LL UNCOVER
Host Polly Swingle is joined by the physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and clinical psychologists involved in the creation and implementation of the Memory Health Program (MHP) at The Recovery Project. This program is built to support both those living with dementia and their loved ones through their journey with compassion, expertise, and personalized care. Visit therecoveryproject.net to learn more!Abbey Seevers is an Occupational Therapy Doctoral student at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) where she plans to graduate in May 2026. Abbey earned her Bachelor of Science in Applied Human & Sport Physiology at Wayne State College in 2023. She has a passion for working with patients with dementia and has a long history working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in long-term memory care and home health throughout her high school, college and graduate schooling years. For her Doctoral Capstone project at UNMC she has partnered with TRP to develop this Memory Health Program.Jordyn Sebastian, MA, CCC-SLP, graduated with a master's degree from Eastern Michigan University. She is licensed in SPEAKOUT! and a certified VitalStim provider for dysphagia therapy.Riley Janssen, OTD, OTRL, is a licensed Occupational Therapist who earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Western Michigan University. She joined The Recovery Project in 2024 following graduation. Riley serves as one of the occupational therapists on the Power Over Parkinson's program team at the Clinton Township location. She is passionate about working with individuals with neurological conditions and is committed to ongoing learning and evidence-based practice to provide the highest quality care.Dr. Madeline Wideman, PT, DPT, has been a Physical Therapist at The Recovery Project since 2018. She earned her Bachelors degree in Allied Health Science from Bowling Green State University in 2014 prior to her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Oakland University in 2017. She specializes in neurological and orthopedic diagnoses with a primary focus in spinal cord injury and CVA. She is also dry needling certified.Dr. Tiffany Tuttle is a clinical psychologist who provides mental health services to adults and older adults with underlying medical issues. She treats depression, anxiety, distress, and assists in trauma recovery. She has over 20 years of experience providing counseling and her approach is strength-based, supportive, and always patient centered. Helping individuals live their best life despite barriers they have encountered is a hallmark of the work Dr. Tuttle provides her patients. She can be reached at 248-245-2306 and found online at patientcenteredpsych.com.Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.net Call us 855-877-1944 to become a patient Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Thanks for listening!
Can Speech Therapy Help at Any Age?In this episode of Chatting with Betsy, host Betsy Wurzel welcomes Ebony Turner-Bailey, M.S., CCC-SLP, licensed speech-language pathologist and Founder of Prime Speech Solutions. Together they discuss early signs of speech and language delays in children, communication challenges related to Autism, and the importance of eye contact and social group therapy.Ebony also explains how speech therapy supports adults, including those living with Parkinson's Disease or Dementia, and how voice therapy can improve communication and quality of life at every age.Thank you for listening to Chatting with Betsy. Follow our channel for more meaningful conversations and share this episode with someone who may benefit from learning more about speech therapy and communication support.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/chatting-with-betsy--4211847/support.
Brain Talk | Being Patient for Alzheimer's & dementia patients & caregivers
Parkinson's can affect speech and swallowing—often starting with subtle changes like a softer or raspy voice. Without treatment, these issues can progress, making communication harder and increasing the risk of swallowing complications, including aspiration.In this Live Talk, Samantha Elandary, MA, CCC-SLP—speech-language pathologist and President & CEO of the Parkinson Voice Project—shares why early evaluation matters and how targeted therapy can help people protect their voice and swallow. She explains how Parkinson's can change how loud someone thinks they're speaking, why everyday skills like talking and swallowing may need to shift from “automatic” to more intentional control, and how daily practice can make a difference.You'll learn about:Early signs of Parkinson's-related voice and speech changesWhy “speaking with intent” can support clearer communicationHow speech therapy may help protect swallowing and reduce aspiration riskWhy consistent at-home exercises are key (not just clinic visits)Programs like Parkinson Voice Project's SPEAK OUT!® and ongoing supportExplore more brain health journalism from Being Patient + subscribe to our newsletter:https://www.beingpatient.com/Follow Being PatientTwitter: / being_patient_ Instagram: / beingpatientvoices Facebook: / beingpatientalzheimers LinkedIn: / being-patient Being Patient is an editorially independent journalism outlet covering brain health, cognitive science, and neurodegenerative diseases. In our Live Talk series, founder and former Wall Street Journal editor Deborah Kan interviews experts and people with lived experience.Watch our latest Live Talks:https://beingpatient.com/live-talks/
Guests: Chelsie Esek-Onyeahialam, MS, CCC-SLP, and Jordyn R. Montique, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/blackslpmagic-part-2FREE Black History Month Conference: www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/culture-care-knowledgeThis course meets ASHA's Content Area 2 PD requirement for providing culturally responsive services and effective self-reflection, adaptability, and collaborative practice.In this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, continues the conversation with Chelsie Esek-Onyeahialam, MS, CCC-SLP, and Jordyn R. Montique, MS, CCC-SLP, founders of #BlackSLPMagic. Part 2 shifts from awareness to action, focusing on practical ways to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion within the field of speech-language pathology.Together, Michelle, Chelsie, and Jordyn examine systemic barriers that continue to impact BIPOC professionals and discuss evidence-based strategies for creating more welcoming, supportive, and inclusive professional environments. The conversation centers on reducing obstacles to professional growth, increasing representation, and strengthening meaningful connections across the SLP community.Listeners will gain concrete tools for advocacy, professional networking, and allyship, along with actionable steps they can take within their own workplaces, organizations, and professional circles. Chelsie and Jordyn share grounded insights on how intentional actions, not just intentions, can help shift culture and create lasting change.Whether you identify as an ally, advocate, or leader in speech-language pathology, this session offers practical strategies to move beyond awareness and toward meaningful action, supporting a profession where all voices are valued and reflected in the communities we serve.Show Notes: Contact Chelsie: @esekhealth on InstagramContact Jordyn: @jrc_theslp on InstagramBlack SLP Magic: @blackslp magic on Instagram, www.blackslpmagic.orgDonate to Black SLP Magic: ko-fi.com/blackslpmagicslpsocialseenSLP Social Scene: @slpsocialseen on InstagramProfessional Identity in Speech-Language Pathology Students: pubs.asha.org/doi/abs/10.1044/2024_PERSP-24-00043Cultural Competence Check-ins: www.asha.org/practice/multicultural/self/Cultural Responsiveness: www.asha.org/practice-portal/professional-issues/cultural-responsiveness/Bias, Appraisal Tools, and Levels of Evidence: www.asha.org/research/ebp/bias-appraisal-tools-and-levels-of-evidence/Related Courses:#BlackSLPMagic Paving the Way for the Future
Want to share your feedback? Send us a message!Martha Jeffery, Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist at the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering in London, joins host Sara MacIntyre, M.A., CCC-SLP, to discuss a qualitative research project exploring parents' and children's perspectives of change following one year of Palin STSC (8–14 years old) therapy. Martha shares the aims and design of the study, which examined how children participating in group or individual therapy, and their parents, described the changes they experienced, and what felt most meaningful.Drawing on thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews, the conversation highlights key themes including shifts in perspective, increased confidence and participation, greater use of skills and strategies, and growing independence and resilience. Martha reflects on how meaningful change from the child and parent perspectives can positively contribute to our therapy development, outcome measurement, individualization, and guide future training and research.Bio: Martha Jeffery is a Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist at the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering in London, UK and she has worked there since 2013. She started her career as a Speech and Language Therapist in 2008, and before then she had an earlier life in conference organizing and then banking. At the Michael Palin Centre she works with children and young people who stammer and their families, carrying out assessments and delivering therapy individually and in groups. She also has a smaller caseload of adults who stammer. She is a co-cordinator of the Michael Palin Centre's training programme, which delivers 12 core courses that range from therapy programmes such as Palin PCI, to using psychological approaches such as Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy with people who stammer. The Centre's training courses reach over 600 speech and language therapists globally each year, which reaches an estimated 6000 children who stammer worldwide annually. Martha also devises and delivers training programmes - most recently a one-day course on Cluttering. The third strand of Martha's work at The Michael Palin Centre, is contributing to their research programme and she will be talking about the research project she is currently working on today.Martha has attended additional training in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and has an Advanced Certificate in Solution Focused Brief Therapy from BRIEF (London)'s year-long programme. She is co-author of Solution Focused Brief Therapy with Children and Young People who Stammer and their Parents: A Practical Guide from the Michael Palin Centre (2024) with Ali Berquez. She is not a person who stammers, but she is married to a person who stammers and is mother to two children - one whose stammer resolved and one whose stammer has continued.
Better Edge : A Northwestern Medicine podcast for physicians
This Better Edge podcast episode features Robin L. Cohen, MD, Michelle Armour, MS, CCC-SLP, and Shamun Mohammed, MS, CCC-SLP, as they discuss the rehabilitation of a 77-year-old stroke patient with severe fluent aphasia, auditory comprehension challenges and apraxia. They highlight how interdisciplinary collaboration, strong family involvement and the Northwestern Medicine Aphasia Program at Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital led to significant functional gains and renewed independence.
In this episode of Swallow Your Pride, Theresa sits down with Dr. Rabab Rangwala, PhD, CCC-SLP, to explore the science behind respiratory–swallow coordination in Parkinson's disease and what it means for clinical practice. They dive into how breathing patterns can influence swallowing safety, why patients with Parkinson's may not fully perceive their swallowing impairments, and what recent research reveals about the relationship between patient-reported symptoms and instrumental findings. Dr. Rangwala also shares how her clinical experience shaped her research questions and why instrumental assessment plays a critical role, while still recognizing real-world access barriers. This conversation bridges neuroscience and bedside care, offering practical insights to help medical SLPs strengthen their clinical clarity and better serve individuals with neurologic disease. Get the references and special links to articles mentioned here: https://syppodcast.com/389 Dr. Rabab Rangwala is a speech-language pathologist and postdoctoral scholar at University of California, San Francisco. Her research focuses on the neural and behavioral control of swallowing and speech across healthy and clinical populations. Her work in dysphagia examines respiratory–swallow coordination, and objective assessment of swallowing impairments using wearable sensors, particularly in individuals with Parkinson's disease and other neurologic conditions. In parallel, she conducts speech neuroscience research using neuroimaging, psychophysics, and computational modeling to understand how the brain supports complex motor behaviors such as speech production. By integrating clinical insight with neuroscience and quantitative methods, Dr. Rangwala's work seeks to improve our understanding of speech and swallowing disorders, with the goal of informing healthcare delivery, guiding treatment decisions, and ultimately improving patient quality of life. The post 389 – Respiratory–Swallow Coordination in Parkinson's: What the Research Actually Shows appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.
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.
Guest: Tracy Camille Johnson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, MSPA-CPSPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/allyship-advocacy-pfdRelated Course: Lactation and the Interprofessional Practice Seminar: www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/lactation-and-ipFirst Bite is back for an all new season, and host Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, kicks things off with a powerful conversation on allyship and advocacy. She's joined by Tracy Camille Johnson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, MSPA-CPSP, Founder and CEO of Buttercup Therapy Services. Together, they explore barriers that BIPOC clinicians may encounter on their journey to becoming an SLP, how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) shape service delivery, and ways to identify functional, community-based resources that truly uplift caregivers supporting children with pediatric feeding disorders. If you're ready to reflect, grow, and strengthen your advocacy lens, this episode will meet you there. Come hungry for growth and leave feeling full.About the Guest: Tracy Camille Johnson is a Speech Language Pathologist, Pediatric Feeding Specialist, Certified Lactation Counselor, and Advocate. Originally from Chicago, she now calls Austin, Texas home. She is the founder and CEO of Buttercup Therapy Services which services the greater Austin region across the lifespan for feeding, swallowing, and communication skills since 2022.Show Notes:Lactation Seminar: www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/lactation-and-ipContact Tracy: @chattytraceface.slp on InstagramButter Cup Therapy: www.buttercuptherapy.orgBlack Mamas ATX (Love Money Cause): blackmamasatx.comNational Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing (NBASLH): www.nbaslh.orgFind Help: www.findhelp.org
Kaye Baumgardner, M.S., CCC-SLP, CLC is a speech therapist with expertise in Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD). She has had extensive training and years of experience evaluating and working with infants and children who have muscle-based and sensory-based feeding disorders. She joined the podcast today to answer a listener question about an infant with parental concern for drooling and tongue protrusion. For more information on her practice, go to https://www.minnetonkatherapy.com/kaye-b/ If you would like to suggest a topic for us to cover on the podcast, please send an e-mail to DownSyndromeCenter@chp.edu. If you would like to partner with the Down Syndrome Center, including this podcast, please visit https://givetochildrens.org/downsyndromecenter. We are thankful for the generous donation from Caring for Kids – The Carrie Martin Fund that provides the funding for the podcast recording equipment and hosting costs for this podcast.
In this episode of The Untethered Podcast, Hallie Bulkin dives deep into the non-negotiable link between how a child breathes and how they eat. This conversation provides the essential clinical "missing link" for pediatric therapy: The Airway.Hallie challenges the idea that mouth breathing is "just a habit," reframing it as a structural adaptation that can stall even the best feeding therapy plans. If you've ever had a patient hit a plateau or show signs of "feeding fatigue," this episode will show you why you must look at the nose and the airway before you can fix the plate.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL LEARN:✔️ The Adaptation Myth: Why mouth breathing is a physiological survival mechanism, not a behavioral choice.✔️ Structural Consequences: How chronic open-mouth posture alters dentofacial development and maxillofacial growth over time.✔️ The "Airway Trumps Everything" Rule: Why the body will always prioritize breathing over eating, and how this creates "feeding fatigue."✔️ The Airway Lens: How to integrate airway and sleep screenings into your standard feeding evaluations.✔️ Beyond the Plate: Recognizing when feeding therapy alone isn't enough and when to refer out for airway obstruction.✔️ Efficiency vs. Effort: How open mouth posture impacts a child's ability to coordinate the suck-swallow-breathe sequence.KEY TAKEAWAYS & SOUND BITES"Mouth breathing is not just a habit. It is an adaptation. We have to ask: What is blocking nasal breathing?""Airway trumps everything. If the body is fighting for air, it will never prioritize the complex mechanics of feeding."RELATED EPISODES YOU MIGHT LOVEEp 337: Unlocking Pediatric Feeding: Expert Strategies with Hallie Bulkin, MA, CCC-SLP, CMT®, CPFT™How Pediatric Feeding Changed in 2025—and What It Means for CliniciansOTHER WAYS TO CONNECT & LEARN
Send us a textABA on Tap is proud to present Brittany Warnke, SLP (Part 2 of 2):In this episode of ABA on Tap, hosts Mike Rubio and Dan Lowery are joined by Brittany Warnke, MA, CCC-SLP, a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist from San Diego, California.Brittany brings her specialized expertise in bridging the gap between speech pathology and behavior analysis to the table. Currently serving at Pioneer Day School, Brittany focuses on collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches to support learners with diverse communication needs.In this episode, we dive into:Interdisciplinary Collaboration: How SLPs and BCBAs can work together to create more comprehensive and effective treatment plans.Functional Communication: Strategies for prioritizing meaningful, real-world communication goals that empower students.Bridging the Jargon: Navigating the different professional "languages" of SLP and ABA to foster better teamwork and outcomes for families.Whether you're a practitioner looking to sharpen your collaborative skills or a parent navigating the world of related services, Brittany's insights offer a fresh, compassionate perspective on how we can better serve our learners together.Pull up a chair, grab a cold one, and let's talk shop. Cheers, and always analyze responsibly!.Support the show
The Modern Therapist's Survival Guide with Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy
After Graduation: Starting a Therapy Career on a Nontraditional Path - An Interview with Derek Isetti In this Becoming a Therapist special series episode, Curt Widhalm and Katie Vernoy check back in with Derek Isetti one year after his first appearance on the podcast. Now graduated from his MSW program, Derek reflects on the prelicensed phase of the journey, including navigating post-graduation registration requirements, taking the Law and Ethics Exam, and searching for supervised clinical work while maintaining a full-time academic career. This conversation explores what it really looks like to start a therapy career on a nontraditional timeline and path. About the Guest Derek Isetti, MSW, PhD, CCC-SLP is an Associate Professor at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. With a background in the performing arts, Derek is both a speech-language pathologist and a social worker pursuing licensure as a psychotherapist. His professional work spans academia, healthcare, and clinical training, offering a unique perspective on early-career development and prelicensed practice. Key Takeaways • What the prelicensed phase looks like after graduating from a master's program • Common challenges with registration, exams, and supervision requirements • Searching for supervised clinical work on a part-time or nontraditional timeline • Balancing another professional career while accumulating hours toward licensure • Why supervision quality and fit matter during the early stages of practice Find the full show notes and resources for this episode at https://mtsgpodcast.com Join the Modern Therapist Community Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/mtsgpodcast Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/therapyreimagined Modern Therapist's Survival Guide Creative Credits Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/ Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/
Most practice owners assume culture problems show up loud — missed numbers, complaints, chaos. But what if the real danger shows up when everything looks successful?In this PPOClub Workshop interview, Adam Robin sits down with April Atchison, CCC-SLP, to unpack a real-life leadership story that every growing practice owner needs to hear. April shares how her multi-location practice appeared stable and thriving — strong revenue, expanding staff, leadership in place, and real work-life balance — right up until subtle cultural cracks began to surface.What followed was one of the most difficult seasons of her career: recognizing leadership misalignment, addressing cultural drift head-on, and ultimately losing four long-term providers — including a clinical director. Instead of avoiding the storm, April chose decisive leadership, values-based clarity, and fast action to protect the future of her organization.This conversation goes far beyond theory. It's a behind-the-scenes look at what actually happens when an owner chooses culture over comfort — and how doing so can unlock stronger teams, higher ownership, and renewed momentum.In this episode, you'll learn:The quiet warning signs of culture breakdown most owners overlookWhy high productivity can hide serious leadership misalignmentHow to run clarity and alignment conversations without fearWhen acting fast protects your best team members — not just the businessWhy losing people can sometimes strengthen culture and performanceHow proactive recruiting creates leverage before you need itWhat decisive leadership looks like when the stakes are highHow rebuilding after disruption leads to stronger ownership and accountabilityIf you've ever felt uneasy despite “good numbers,” delayed a hard conversation because things looked fine, or wondered whether holding the line on values is worth the risk — this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and a leadership framework you can apply immediately.
Send us a textABA on Tap is proud to present Brittany Warnke, SLP (Part 1 of 2):In this episode of ABA on Tap, hosts Mike Rubio and Dan Lowery are joined by Brittany Warnke, MA, CCC-SLP, a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist from San Diego, California.Brittany brings her specialized expertise in bridging the gap between speech pathology and behavior analysis to the table. Currently serving at Pioneer Day School, Brittany focuses on collaborative, interdisciplinary approaches to support learners with diverse communication needs.In this episode, we dive into:Interdisciplinary Collaboration: How SLPs and BCBAs can work together to create more comprehensive and effective treatment plans.Functional Communication: Strategies for prioritizing meaningful, real-world communication goals that empower students.Bridging the Jargon: Navigating the different professional "languages" of SLP and ABA to foster better teamwork and outcomes for families.Whether you're a practitioner looking to sharpen your collaborative skills or a parent navigating the world of related services, Brittany's insights offer a fresh, compassionate perspective on how we can better serve our learners together.Pull up a chair, grab a cold one, and let's talk shop. Cheers, and always analyze responsibly!.Support the show
Want to share your feedback? Send us a message!David Luterman, Ed.D., CCC-SLP, Professor Emeritus at Emerson College, joins host Sara MacIntyre, M.A., CCC-SLP, to explore what it truly means to be family-centered in clinical practice. Drawing on more than 60 years of clinical and teaching experience, Dr. Luterman shares stories and formative moments that have shaped his belief in placing families at the center of assessment and therapy. The conversation invites clinicians to reflect on how thoughtfully supporting families can foster deeper, more meaningful change for clients.Additional Resources:Empowering the Client with Dr. David Luterman60 Years of Clinical Teacher in Counseling: Reflections with Dr. David LutermanSharpening Counseling Skills Parent Counseling: Conversations with David Luterman David Luterman, Ed.D., CCC-SLP, is a professor emeritus at Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts and Director of the Thayer Lindsey Family Centered Nursery for Hearing Impaired Children. He is the author of many articles and several books, including his seminal book called Counseling Persons with Communication Disorders and Their Families, now in its 5th edition. He has done several podcasts and a DVD through the Stuttering Foundation called Counseling People who Stutter and Their Families. In addition to authoring many books, he is a well-known teacher, researcher, consultant, and lecturer. Dr. Luterman is a fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and recipient of the Frank Kleffner Clinical Achievement Award (2011).
On stage at the school assembly, second-grade Mike got stuck for 30 seconds saying the Pledge of Allegiance. Every eye on him. Then: a rush. Not relief—an actual high. "I got through it. I did it." Today Mike Liben is CEO of Chai Travel, leading meetings, closing deals, and proving substance beats style every time. When the Brooklyn DA suggested Mike avoid the courtroom, Mike was resolute: "I'll say what I need to say. And they'll listen." He took the harder path—and it made him stronger. Judges started requesting him. Not despite his stutter. Because of what he brought. Every leader can learn from Mike: The best communicators aren't the smoothest talkers. They're the most prepared. Whether you stutter or not, this proves speaking with confidence comes from knowing what you have to say matters more than how you say it. IN THIS EPISODE: Why preparation and substance beat smooth delivery every time (courtroom lessons for every leader) The "rush" after doing hard things - and what it teaches about building confidence How to navigate difficult conversations when the stakes are high Barry Liben's intensity - how the same force that was sometimes tough for young Mike also became his model for resilience Why judges preferred Mike in court (hint: it wasn't his fluency!) What Mike learned about leadership from watching his father refuse to let physical limitations win How stuttering built the empathy that makes Mike a better CEO The business principles behind Chai Travel's success What every professional can learn about speaking with confidence in meetings, presentations, and executive conversations ABOUT OUR GUEST: Mike Liben is CEO of Chai Travel, a family-founded travel agency built on the legacy of his father, Barry Liben. Before entering the travel industry, Mike spent 11 years as a prosecuting attorney in the Brooklyn District Attorney's office, specializing in domestic violence cases. Despite stuttering since childhood, Mike chose the courtroom over desk work - and became the prosecutor judges requested. Mike lives with his wife and children, carrying forward his father's philosophy of treating everyone like family. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Mike's obsession with substance over style 1:21 Welcome to TranscendingX 2:06 What doesn't show up on Mike's resume 5:26 On stage at the school assembly: The Pledge of Allegiance moment 8:02 The "rush" after hard moments—building confidence through action 9:42 Doing hard things builds the capacity for leadership 10:01 The worst advice: "Stomp your foot while stuttering" 10:49 "Did you forget your name?"—what people still get wrong 13:15 The complicated father-son dynamic 16:25 Barry's frustration: "I want my money back" 17:14 What changed: Seeing the stuttering community 19:39 Barry's mobility challenges: Modeling relentless determination 22:41 Bar mitzvah speech: When fluency went "off the rails" 27:03 "I think I'm done with therapy"—choosing his own path 31:50 Growing up in Barry Liben's shadow 32:02 Why Mike chose to become an attorney despite stuttering 33:48 Courtroom lesson: The best attorneys are the most prepared 35:23 The DA's suggestion: "Maybe avoid the courtroom" 36:13 Mike's resolute response: "I'll say what I need to say. And they'll listen." 38:47 First court appearances: The harder path made him stronger 39:31 Judges started requesting Mike—substance won over style 39:50 Transitioning from prosecutor to entrepreneur 40:21 Barry Liben: Self-made travel industry force 42:06 Starting Chai Travel: Following Barry's example 42:48 Barry's credo: Treat everyone like family (top to bottom) 45:06 The turbulence analogy: When to push through vs. when to reroute 46:51 Leading as CEO: How communication challenges show up (and don't) 49:35 Empathy from experience: Why understanding challenges makes you a better leader 57:00 The myth: Communication challenges don't have to disqualify you from leadership 57:57 Let substance guide your decisions, not style 58:42 Mike's billboard: "Substance is what matters" ABOUT THE HOST Uri Schneider, M.A. CCC -SLP is co-founder and leader at Schneider Speech; creator and host of Transcending X; and former faculty at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine. SEE ALL SHOW NOTES http://www.transcendingx.com/podcast LEARN MORE at http://www.transcendingx.com and http://www.schneiderspeech.com
Your Time Management Revolution - productivity tips from The Inefficiency Assassin, Helene Segura
Executive Function & Time Management for Families: How Weekly Planning Reduces Stress In this episode of the Time Management Revolution, speech-language pathologist and executive function coach Maria DelCorso explains how working memory, emotional regulation, prioritization and cognitive flexibility shape how families manage time. You'll learn: Why executive function is the foundation of time management How reactive schedules increase stress for parents and kids A simple five-step family process to improve planning, organization, and follow-through How modeling time management builds lifelong skills in children Why rituals like weekly family meetings create structure and calm This conversation is extremely helpful for working parents, neurodivergent families, and anyone struggling with distractions, overwhelm, or follow-through.
In this episode of The Untethered Podcast, Hallie Bulkin sits down with Cheryl Pelletier ,M.S., CCC-SLP to discuss the essential infrastructure of a successful career in feeding therapy: mentorship, community, and the courage to evolve.Many clinicians feel like they are on an island when navigating complex pediatric swallowing and feeding cases. Hallie and Cheryl pull back the curtain on why "gatekeeping" in the profession hinders patient care and how transitioning from a solo mindset to a collaborative one transforms clinical outcomes. They explore how the right tools—combined with structured mentorship—can turn clinical anxiety into confident, life-changing intervention.This episode dives deep into the reality that clinical excellence isn't just about what you know; it's about who you learn with. From navigating the "imposter" feelings of a new specialty to leveraging innovative tools for safer feeding, Hallie and Cheryl provide a roadmap for clinicians ready to elevate their professional standing and improve their patients' quality of life.In this episode, you'll learn:✔️ Why mentorship is a constant necessity, not just a "beginner phase" ✔️ How to overcome the obstacles and "gatekeeping" that stall professional growth ✔️ The role of specialized certification in building clinical reasoning and authority ✔️ Why sharing knowledge across disciplines (SLPs and OTs) is the key to reducing waitlists ✔️ How innovative feeding tools can facilitate safer, more effective therapy sessions ✔️ Why building on a child's strengths is more effective than focusing on deficits ✔️ How to measure success through improved quality of life for the whole familyIf you're ready to stop second-guessing your clinical decisions and start leading with confidence, Screen The Peds to Feed The Peds is your next step.Join me for this free 3-day training, where I'll show you how to screen feeding cases clearly, confidently, and with intention — so you know exactly what to do next.
Guests: Rachel S. Tyrone, PhD, CCC-SLP, Assistant Professor at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, and Torrey Robinson, MS, CCC-SLP, doctoral student at UMMC.Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/population-healthY'all, this conversation exists because of a fantastic dress and a spontaneous chat outside the bathroom at the Mississippi Annual Speech-Language-Hearing Convention. That chance moment sparked a soul-filling discussion about population health, public health, and social determinants of health, and how all three directly shape our work as pediatric SLPs. As 2025 comes to a close and many of us are reflecting on our professional place in the world, this episode offers hope, perspective, and practical ways to think and act upstream. You will walk away inspired to become an “Upstreamist,” ready to lead gently and passionately for our field, our colleagues, and the children and families we serve in 2026.Show Notes:ASHA SDOH: https://www.asha.org/practice/social-determinants-of-health/?srsltid=AfmBOopPx1sLqvjVFTyhNQ3gM8f4tlJ3_e6otXZgc5w9S8gGNCKH5zWKHealthy People: https://odphp.health.gov/healthypeople
In this replay episode, I'm thrilled to bring back one of the most impactful conversations I've ever had on the podcast — my interview with Dr. Barry Prizant, world-renowned speech-language pathologist and author of the groundbreaking book Uniquely Human. Our discussion gets to the heart of why the field of autism education is shifting away from compliance-based, behavior-focused models and toward approaches rooted in compassion, emotional regulation, and trusting relationships. Dr. Prizant shares powerful insights about: ✨ understanding autistic behaviors as meaningful human responses ✨ how storytelling has shaped his work and shaped Uniquely Human ✨ why reflective practice is essential in our classrooms ✨ and how listening to autistic voices is helping reshape "what works" in autism education We also dig into topics like echolalia, the SCERTS model, relationship-based intervention, non-speaking communication, and why honoring a child's intuition and individuality is more effective—and more humane—than rigid compliance. This conversation left me feeling inspired, energized, and hopeful about where autism education is heading… and I know it will do the same for you. Bio Barry M. Prizant, PhD, CCC-SLP is recognized as among the world's leading scholars on autism and as an innovator of respectful, person- and family-centered approaches. He is Director of Childhood Communication Services, Adjunct Professor of Communicative Disorders at the University of Rhode Island, and has fifty years of experience as an international consultant and researcher. Barry has published five books, 150 articles/chapters, and is co-author of The SCERTS Model, now being implemented internationally. He was a two-time featured presenter at the UN World Autism Awareness Day, with more than 1000 presentations internationally. Barry's book Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism (2022) is the best-selling book on autism since 2015, published in 26 languages and ranked by Book Authority as #1 of the "100 best books on autism of all time". Barry co-hosts a podcast, Uniquely Human: The Podcast, with his friend, Dave Finch, an autistic audio engineer. Dr. Barry Prizant's Links: Website: https://barryprizant.com/ Uniquely Human Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/uniquely-human-the-podcast/id1532460901 Uniquely Human Book: https://amzn.to/4e5VWZN The Scerts Model Books: https://amzn.to/4kFpbF5 DRBI (Developmental Relationship-Based Intervention) Interview: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/uniquely-human-the-podcast/id1532460901?i=1000711834231 Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN): https://autisticadvocacy.org/ Amy Laurent Ted Talk "Compliance Is Not The Goal": https://www.ted.com/talks/amy_laurent_compliance_is_not_the_goal_letting_go_of_control_and_rethinking_support_for_autistic_individuals?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare Thinking Person's Guide To Autism: https://thinkingautismguide.com/ David Finch Website: https://davidjfinch.com/ Ros Blackburn & Sigourney Weaver Interview: https://uniquelyhuman.com/2021/04/23/logically-illogical-an-interview-with-ros-blackburn-with-special-guest-sigourney-weaver/ Takeaways Dr. Barry Prizant brings decades of expertise in speech-language pathology, psycholinguistics, and autism advocacy — grounded in human connection, not behavior control. Uniquely Human was written to change the narrative around autism by sharing stories that center humanity, not deficits. Autistic behaviors are human responses, not symptoms to extinguish — and understanding the "why" leads to more effective and compassionate support. Emotional regulation and relationships matter more than compliance; kids cooperate when they feel safe, supported, and understood. The shift toward neurodiversity-affirming practice requires reflective practice and humility from professionals — especially when something isn't working. Evidence-based practice is broader than peer-reviewed research. It also includes family insight, lived experience, and data from everyday interactions. Parents' intuition matters, and professionals should never ask families to ignore what feels right for their child. Compliance-focused approaches often overlook emotional development, social connection, and the child's authentic voice. True support begins with trust, co-regulation, and being a calming presence when a child is overwhelmed. Listening to autistic voices is essential for shaping ethical and effective educational practices. Meaningful progress happens through everyday activities, strengths, and interests, not isolated drills. The field is moving toward relationship-based, developmental models (like SCERTS)—and that gives real hope for the future. You may also be interested in these supports Visual Support Starter Set Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook
Guests: Vicki R. Deal-Williams, ASHA's Chief Executive Officer, and Perry Flynn, 2026 ASHA President ElectEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/the-future-of-slhThis episode is a collaboration with the Keys for SLPs podcast, hosted by Mary Beth Hines, MS, CCC-SLP. Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S joins as a co-host to welcome ASHA leadership Vicki R. Deal-Williams, MA, CCC-SLP, FASAE, CAE, ASHA's Chief Executive Officer, and Perry Flynn, MEd, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL, CTRI, ASHA-F, 2026 ASHA President Elect for an inside look at the evolving speech-language-hearing professions.Together, they will explore emerging technologies, workforce trends, and ongoing efforts to recruit and retain professionals, particularly those from BIPOC communities. The conversation will also highlight the SLP Interstate Compact and offer practical guidance for students and early-career professionals navigating the changing landscape of the field.About the Guests:Vicki Deal-Williams serves as the Chief Executive Officer for the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), where she has been a valued team member for more than three decades. A Certified Association Executive and distinguished Fellow of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), Vicki is also an ASHA certified speech-language pathologist and ASHA Fellow. Her expertise lies in cultivating leadership, aligning strategic goals with organizational priorities, and navigating teams through transformation with clarity and purpose. She is known for her ability to authentically build strong, collaborative relationships and to foster a welcoming culture where everyone feels they have a voice. Through clear vision, steady guidance, and deep commitment, she works alongside volunteer leaders and members, students, vendors, partners, and staff to advance ASHA's mission, achieve optimal results, and ensure lasting impact.Perry Flynn, MEd, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL, CTRI, is the Consultant to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction in the area of Speech-Language Pathology and a Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He is a Fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, a two-time member of ASHA's Board of Directors, and a Board Certified Specialist in Child Language. He is a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) Certified Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor. He has presented several times at ASHA Conventions on the topic of recruiting and retaining men and minorities in speech-language pathology and has written several articles on the topic.
Guests: Maggie Wheeler, MS, CCC-SLP, and Briana Klar, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/pfd-and-utImagine a world where every SLP receives hands-on training in pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders as part of their university practicum experience! How incredible would it be to build a foundation in patient care alongside early literacy and speech-sound strategies?Thanks to Maggie Wheeler, MS, CCC-SLP, and Briana Klar, MS, CCC-SLP, at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, that vision is becoming a reality. These inspiring educators are integrating interprofessional education for the evaluation and treatment of PFD into their graduate program while providing exceptional care to little ones in their community.In this First Bite episode, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, sits down with Maggie and Briana to learn how they brought this vision to life and to share ideas for creating similar opportunities at your university.Show Notes:University of Tennessee Foundation: https://utfi.org/giving/About the Guests: Maggie Wheeler, MS, CCC-SLP, has been with the University of Tennessee Health Science Center since 2018, serving in the Pediatric Language Clinic and, more recently, the UT Hearing and Speech Center, working as a clinical assistant professor. She has expertise in parent training, early intervention, autism, and early language. Ms. Wheeler also treats early intervention patients with pediatric feeding and augmentative communication needs. Her previous experience in public schools has made her passionate about helping parents smoothly transition from early intervention into the public school system. She also strives to support her family by connecting them with local resources to support the needs of their child.Briana Klar, MS, CCC-SLP, is a clinical instructor at the UT Hearing and Speech Center with a focus on pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders. Her clinical experience spans private practice, schools, and pediatric outpatient. Briana is passionate about using a responsive feeding approach to create positive, family-centered feeding environments that support both children and their caregivers in overcoming feeding difficulties. In addition to her work in pediatric feeding, Briana also has a strong interest in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and enjoys helping children with complex communication needs.
#79: What changes in feeding when your baby turns 1? Honestly...not a whole lot. But we do make the transition to cow's milk and that can be kind of tricky for some families. In this episode we're looking at how to pick milk when your baby turns 1. From questions about how much to feed, what types of cow's milk to try, transitioning from breastmilk and/or formula to cow's milk and milk alternatives, I'm answering all your questions on how to pick a milk when your baby turns 1. Listen to this episode to learn: 1. Why it's ok for babies to have cow's milk protein in yogurt, low sodium cheeses and other dairy foods but why we don't substitute fluid cow's milk for breastmilk and/or formula until baby turns 1 2. What to look for in the milk aisle when you're choosing a cow's milk for your baby at or after the 1 year mark 3. How to wean baby off of the bottle (and when to do that) and what to consider if you need to do a cow's milk alternative if your baby has cow's milk protein allergy or you're a vegan family Shownotes for this episode can be found here: https://www.babyledweaning.co/podcast/79 Links from this episode: • Baby-Led Weaning with Katie Ferraro program with the 100 First Foods™ Daily Meal Plan, join here: https://babyledweaning.co/program • Baby-Led Weaning for Beginners free online workshop with 100 First Foods™ list to all attendees, register here: https://babyledweaning.co/baby-led-weaning-for-beginners Other episodes related to this topic: • Episode 13 - “Milk Protein: How to Introduce Your Baby to this Potentially Allergenic Food” • Episode 40 - “6 Reasons to Skip the Sippy Cup with Dawn Winkelmann, MS, CCC-SLP” • Episode 285 - “Are Plant-Based Milks Safe for Babies?”
Your weekly dose of information that keeps you up to date on the latest developments in the field of technology designed to assist people with disabilities and special needs. Special Guest: Dr. Rachel Levy, SLPD, CCC-SLP – Customer Success Manager – VoiceItt VoiceItt info: voiceitt.com Voiceitt email: support@voiceitt.com Email Racheal: rachel@thebabelgroup.com Babel info: thebabelgroup.com —– […]
#78: When baby-led weaning was still considered risky and unconventional, Jessica Coll, RD, was already teaching workshops to parents in Canada. Now, as the founder of the International Baby-Led Weaning Network for Health Professionals, she's helping clinicians around the world feel confident supporting families through this feeding approach. In this episode, Jessica shares how she built her professional network, why she believes dietitians and other providers should be involved in baby-led weaning, and what still needs to change in the way we educate professionals about starting solid foods. Listen to this episode to learn: 1. How Jessica Coll helped bring baby-led weaning into the professional mainstream in Canada 2. Why she founded the International Baby-Led Weaning Network for Health Professionals 3. How her work is driving the role of credentialed feeding experts in the baby-led weaning field Shownotes for this episode can be found here: https://www.babyledweaning.co/podcast/78 Links from this episode: • Visit Jessica's website and use the code BLW for 20% off membership in the International Baby-Led Weaning Network for Health Professionals: https://www.healthlyinstitute.com/ • Baby-Led Weaning with Katie Ferraro program with the 100 First Foods™ Daily Meal Plan, join here: https://babyledweaning.co/program • Baby-Led Weaning for Beginners free online workshop with 100 First Foods™ list to all attendees, register here: https://babyledweaning.co/baby-led-weaning-for-beginners Other episodes related to this topic: • Episode 70 - The Evidence Behind Baby-Led Weaning with Amy Brown, PhD • Episode 370 - Why Do Some Feeding Therapists Disagree with Baby-Led Weaning? with Jill Rabin, MS, CCC-SLP, IBCLC • Episode 500 - From Niche to Norm: The Evolution of Baby-Led Weaning with Gill Rapley, PhD
#78: When baby-led weaning was still considered risky and unconventional, Jessica Coll, RD, was already teaching workshops to parents in Canada. Now, as the founder of the International Baby-Led Weaning Network for Health Professionals, she's helping clinicians around the world feel confident supporting families through this feeding approach. In this episode, Jessica shares how she built her professional network, why she believes dietitians and other providers should be involved in baby-led weaning, and what still needs to change in the way we educate professionals about starting solid foods. Listen to this episode to learn: 1. How Jessica Coll helped bring baby-led weaning into the professional mainstream in Canada 2. Why she founded the International Baby-Led Weaning Network for Health Professionals 3. How her work is driving the role of credentialed feeding experts in the baby-led weaning field Shownotes for this episode can be found here: https://www.babyledweaning.co/podcast/78 Links from this episode: • Visit Jessica's website and use the code BLW for 20% off membership in the International Baby-Led Weaning Network for Health Professionals: https://www.healthlyinstitute.com/ • Baby-Led Weaning with Katie Ferraro program with the 100 First Foods™ Daily Meal Plan, join here: https://babyledweaning.co/program • Baby-Led Weaning for Beginners free online workshop with 100 First Foods™ list to all attendees, register here: https://babyledweaning.co/baby-led-weaning-for-beginners Other episodes related to this topic: • Episode 70 - The Evidence Behind Baby-Led Weaning with Amy Brown, PhD • Episode 370 - Why Do Some Feeding Therapists Disagree with Baby-Led Weaning? with Jill Rabin, MS, CCC-SLP, IBCLC • Episode 500 - From Niche to Norm: The Evolution of Baby-Led Weaning with Gill Rapley, PhD
Guest: Rachel Conrad, MA, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/embracing-lived-experiencesIn the first episode of 2025, Michelle is joined by Jaclyn Pederson, MHI, CEO of Feeding Matters, and William Sharp, PhD, Director of Children's Multidisciplinary Feeding Program (Atlanta, GA) and Professor at Emory University School of Medicine, to lay the foundation for a year of combining passion, advocacy, and learning. These guests share their expertise and highlights from a recent journal publication on how the diagnoses of “Pediatric Feeding Disorder” and “Avoidant Restrictive Feeding Intake Disorder” are individualistic while simultaneously overlapping to capture the unique needs of the little ones on our caseloads. Additionally, they share practical insight into the roles and responsibilities of various team members, such as the SLP and the psychologist, in evaluating and treating these little ones as part of an interprofessional practice team.About the Guest: Rachel Conrad, MA, CCC-SLP, is the owner of Bite and Bloom Therapy, LLC, under The Mindful Collective, where she specializes in pediatric feeding and swallowing, ARFID, AAC, and sensory-based therapy. She serves as the Chair of the Feeding Matters Research Consortium, a patient- and family-centered research initiative partially funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI). Rachel brings a unique perspective to her work, combining her professional expertise with her lived experience of pediatric feeding differences and ARFID. She collaborates with The Village, a perinatal and eating disorder provider group, and participates in national advocacy and education initiatives to improve early intervention and interdisciplinary care for children with feeding differences. Rachel has delivered presentations and talks on best practices for evaluating and treating medically complex children with feeding and swallowing disorders. She is passionate about creating spaces where patients and families feel truly heard, seen, and valued in discussions about feeding differences. She is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the Kansas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (KSHA) and is committed to advancing awareness, research, and best practices in pediatric feeding and swallowing. Rachel bridges the gap between research, clinical practice, and lived experience to support children and families navigating feeding differences.Show Notes:Bite & Bloom Therapy: https://www.mindfulcollectivegroup.com/rachel-conradFeeding Matters: https://www.feedingmatters.orgFind Assistance: https://www.findhelp.org
Does tongue tie impact pediatric sleep disordered breathing? In this episode of the Back Table ENT Podcast, otolaryngologist Dr. Brennan Dodson and speech language pathologist Allegra Bereszniewicz discuss tongue-tie and the pediatric airway with hosts Dr Ashley Agan and Dr. Gopi Shah. --- SYNPOSIS The discussion covers the anatomy and pathophysiology of tongue tie, surgical techniques for its release, and the importance of pre- and post-operative myofunctional therapy. They delve into patient selection, the impact of tongue tie on sleep-disordered breathing, and contrasting surgical methodologies, including frenuloplasty. The episode also features an insightful case study with visuals, examining Dr. Dodson's surgical approach in detail. Additionally, they touch on insurance considerations and the challenges within current medical practice regarding tongue tie diagnosis and treatment. Check out detailed surgical techniques at the end with case presentations! --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction01:29 - Understanding Tongue Tie and Pediatric Airway06:17 - The Role of Myofunctional Therapy10:37 - Scientific Evidence and Research on Tongue Tie15:52 - Clinical Approaches and Patient Evaluations35:00 - Pre-Op and Post-Op Procedures39:02 - Post-Surgery Recovery and Exercises40:32 - Surgical Techniques and Tools44:31 - Post-Operative Care and Pain Management48:59 - Patient Selection and Considerations01:02:41 - Sleep Studies and Outcome Measures01:12:30 - Incision Techniques and Dissection Tools01:17:24 - Closure and Post-Operative Care01:23:51 - Innovations and Techniques in Surgery01:28:09 - Final Thoughts --- RESOURCES Dr. Brennan Dodson https://www.bridgerent.com/ Allegra Bereszniewicz MS, CCC-SLPhttps://grospeech.com/about/
Where did arbitrary cut scores for norm-referenced language assessments come from, and why do they feel “safer” than relying on clinical judgement?I discuss this question and more in this third part of a three-part series, bilingual SLPs Destiny Johnson and Tiffany Shahoumian-Ruiz join me to continue our conversation about advocating for effective language evaluation practices in schools.Across these conversations, we explore:Sensitivity, specificity, reference standards, and diagnostic accuracyHow test development has evolved over time and why this matters Why the same cut-off score shouldn't apply across all testsThe math behind using two norm-referenced tests, and why it may complicate rather than clarify in some casesOther reasons we test beyond diagnosis (treatment planning, severity, monitoring progress)How do we do we to “sell” the concept of dynamic assessment to administratorsCase studies that show the pitfalls of over-reliance on standardized scoresMisconceptions clinicians often hold, and what they should know about assessmentDifferences in state eligibility standards, and what this means for service decisionsThis series is part myth-busting, part practical strategies, and part advocacy playbook—perfect for clinicians who want to move beyond compliance-driven evaluations toward assessments that truly reflect students' needs.Destiny Johnson, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a bilingual speech-language pathologist (English/Spanish) with a deep passion for culturally responsive assessment and treatment practices, as well as advocating for policy change. She has presented on dynamic assessment at the CSHA Convergence 2024, focusing on the importance of dynamic assessment in bilingual children. Destiny has experience working as a school-based SLP, in private practice, and in early intervention. She is also the founder and CEO of Multimodal Communication Speech Clinic P.C.Connect with Destiny on Instagram @destinyjohnsonslp, on her private practice website here, and on LinkedIn here.Listen to Destiny's previous episode on De Facto Leaders here: EP 187: Dynamic Assessment: Evaluations are a process, not a test (with Destiny Johnson)Tiffany Shahoumian-Ruiz is a bilingual high school SLP from Southern California who has primarily worked in the school systems and has experience at both the elementary and secondary level. She's also a member of Language Therapy Advance Foundations, and is involved in state and local advocacy work relating to dynamic assessments and special education eligibility.Connect with Tiffany on Instagram @tiffany.shahoumianListen to Tiffany's previous episode on De Facto Leaders here: High school language therapy: Do we still have time to make an impact? (with Tiffany Shahoumian-Ruiz)In this episode, I mention Language Therapy Advance Foundations, my program that gives SLPs and other service providers a system for language therapy. You can learn more about the program here.Additional Resources Mentioned in the episode:Daub, O., Cunningham, B. J., Bagatto, M. P., Johnson, A. M., Kwok, E. Y., Smyth, R. E., & Oram Cardy, J. (2021). Adopting a conceptual validity framework for testing in speech-language pathology. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 30(4), 1894–1908. https://doi.org/10.1044/2021_AJSLP-20-00032Spaulding, T. J., Plante, E., & Farinella, K. A. (2006). Eligibility criteria for language impairment: Is the low end of normal always appropriate? Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools, 37(1), 61–72. https://doi.org/10.1044/0161-1461(2006/007)DYMOND Norm-Referenced Dynamic AssessmentBilingual English-Spanish Assessment (BESA) We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments
Guest: Kathryn (Kati) C. R. Knudsen, PT, MPT, CNT, PCS, DCS, CLEEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/pts-and-feeding-in-the-nicuDid you know Physical Therapists can play a vital role in feeding and PO readiness in the NICU? They sure can! If you're curious about the unique expertise they bring to the table, this episode is for you.Join Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, as she chats with Kathryn C. R. Knudsen, PT, MPT, CNT, PCS, DCS, CLE—affectionately known as “Kati”—a NICU PT with more than 25 years of experience. Kati shares her journey into neonatal care, explores the specialized training PTs receive to support oral readiness, and offers insight into how they help caregivers who are learning to chest feed or bottle feed their little ones.You'll also hear about the effects of Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS) on feeding development and how collaborative care between SLPs and PTs can make a real difference. This episode is a powerful example of interprofessional teamwork, with the shared goal of helping babies and caregivers thrive.Show Notes:Find Local Assistance: https://www.findhelp.org"Welcome to Holland" Poem: https://www.emilyperlkingsley.com/welcome-to-hollandAbout the Guest: Kati Knudsen has practiced as a pediatric physical therapist since 1996 and as a therapist in the NICU since 1999. Kati served as lead therapist for two NICUs at sister hospitals in Portland, Oregon for 10 years, and continues to work per diem for these hospitals while serving as an account manager for Dr. Brown's Medical. She has obtained certifications in neonatal therapy, pediatric physical therapy, lactation education, neurodevelopmental treatment, infant massage, developmental care, and transportation of children with special needs to better support infants and families. Kati has published articles about support for preterm and medically fragile infants and spoken nationally and internationally on improving the care of infants in the NICU. Kati serves as the therapy representative on the Vermont Oxford Network Multidisciplinary Advisory Council and is a founding member, past co-chair, and past treasurer of the Neonatal Therapy Certification Board. Kati saw patients in NICU follow-up clinic for more than 25 years where she also helped to redesign care to make it more accessible to families. Kati's overall goal with her professional activities is to support improved long-term outcomes for medically fragile infants and their families.Follow First Bite: https://linktr.ee/FirstBitePodcast?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=1571047e-c5cf-4d4a-8cc6-08ec5871aeb5Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36kfA1xbU156vHPilALVoJ?si=c187e347d3984b45Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-bite/id1399630680
For this edition of the show, we warmly welcome Joan Green! Joan Green, M.A., CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, assistive technology specialist, and founder of Innovative Speech Therapy in the Washington, DC area. For nearly 40 years, she has helped people of all ages (especially neurodiverse learners) use technology to enhance communication, learning, and independence. Passionate about accessibility and innovation, Joan also educates families and professionals on how everyday tech and AI can change our daily lives. Our conversation explores how technology, including AI-powered tools, can be used to help support neurodivergent students in learning, communicating, and thriving, with Joan explaining that her passion for this work began in the 1980s when she saw how early computer software could dramatically improve outcomes for her adult patients with neurological conditions. She then expanded her focus to helping families and students, motivated in part by her own experiences as a parent. We highlight how many accessibility features and free tools built into common devices and platforms can provide incredibly crucial support for students who struggle with reading, writing, organization, or focus, with Joan stressing the importance of tailoring solutions, whether it's adjusting text-to-speech settings or finding the proper app or extension. She cautions against oversimplifying the process, as each student's needs are unique. Our discussion also touches upon the complex role of AI and advanced technology in education. Joan sees tremendous potential for AI to personalize learning and free up teachers to focus on higher-level instruction. She also voices some concerns about overreliance on it. Her approach is to position AI as a "thought partner" that can enhance and augment human learning rather than replace it. Throughout the conversation, Joan also shares some practical tips and resources, including her free 15-minute consultations and her ongoing Tech Life Inner Circle program, which provides weekly training and collaborative problem-solving sessions. Our conversation in this episode truly highlights the power of technology to bridge gaps and amplify the voices of neurodivergent students - but only when used with intention and mindfulness! Show Notes: [2:31] - Hear how Joan began using early computer software with stroke patients and saw technology speed up recovery. [5:11] - Joan stresses the importance of beginning with free, built-in assistive tools such speech-to-text, read-aloud, and captions. [7:45] - Hear how Joan helps people choose the right reading and speech tools and offers free tech consultations. [11:17] - Joan believes that AI can aid in learning when used thoughtfully, but worries about shortcuts and privacy concerns. [13:32] - While Joan values AI as a creative learning tool, she also stresses the importance of actual understanding and critical thinking. [15:02] - AI can be a great way to personalize learning. [17:04] - Hear how Joan uses AI to personalize lessons around students' interests while still thinking critically herself. [18:55] - Joan explains how she offers collaborative one-on-one tech sessions, which identify struggles. [20:47] - Joan runs the very affordable Tech Life Inner Circle, providing weekly tutorials, recordings, and live tech brainstorming. [23:53] - Tech Possibility Academy teaches essential, easy-to-implement tools for parents, educators, and lifelong learners. [26:42] - Joan stresses technology's necessity for independence while also acknowledging its downsides. [29:39] - Where can Joan be reached? Links and Related Resources: Episode 142: How to Help Neurodivergent Kids Manage Social Media Episode 177: How Understanding the Adolescent Brain Helps Us Better Support Teens Episode 241: How to Be a 'Screen-Smart Parent with Jodi Gold, MD Connect with Joan Green, M.A., CCC-SLP: Innovative Speech Therapy Main Website Tech Life Inner Circle IST Tech Savvy Solutions Facebook Group
When memory, thinking or communication changes begin, knowing where to turn for support can make all the difference. In this episode, we explore how two key health care specialties can help individuals and families meet those challenges with confidence. Sarah Gunderson, an occupational therapist, and Kari Esser, a speech-language pathologist, draw from their work supporting people experiencing a wide range of neurological conditions to walk us through the foundations of their specialties and their unique roles in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia care. Sarah and Kari also provide a preview of their upcoming talk, “Partnering with Your Healthcare Team,” as part of the 2025 Healthy Living with MCI education program. Guests: Sarah Gunderson, OT, occupational therapist, UW Health, Kari Esser, MS, CCC-SLP, speech-language pathologist, UW Health Show Notes Register and learn more about the upcoming Healthy Living with MCI event featuring Dr. Chin, Sarah Gunderson and Kari Esser, happening on December 12, 2025, and future programs on our website. Learn more about Sarah from her profile on the UW Health Website. Learn more about Kari from her profile on the UW Health Website. Connect with us Find transcripts and more at our website. Email Dementia Matters: dementiamatters@medicine.wisc.edu Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Subscribe to the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center's e-newsletter. Enjoy Dementia Matters? Consider making a gift to the Dementia Matters fund through the UW Initiative to End Alzheimer's. All donations go toward outreach and production.
When we choose evaluation tools for language, are we clear on WHY we're assessing? Most people think of diagnosis, but that's not the only reason we assess students. I discuss this question and more in this second part of a three-part series, bilingual SLPs Destiny Johnson and Tiffany Shahoumian-Ruiz join me to continue our conversation about language evaluation practices in schools.Across these conversations, we explore:Sensitivity, specificity, reference standards, and diagnostic accuracyHow test development has evolved over time and why this matters Why the same cut-off score shouldn't apply across all testsThe math behind using two norm-referenced tests, and why it may complicate rather than clarify in some casesOther reasons we test beyond diagnosis (treatment planning, severity, monitoring progress)How do we do we to “sell” the concept of dynamic assessment to administratorsCase studies that show the pitfalls of over-reliance on standardized scoresMisconceptions clinicians often hold, and what they should know about assessmentDifferences in state eligibility standards, and what this means for service decisionsThis series is part myth-busting, part practical strategies, and part advocacy playbook—perfect for clinicians who want to move beyond compliance-driven evaluations toward assessments that truly reflect students' needs.Destiny Johnson, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a bilingual speech-language pathologist (English/Spanish) with a deep passion for culturally responsive assessment and treatment practices, as well as advocating for policy change. She has presented on dynamic assessment at the CSHA Convergence 2024, focusing on the importance of dynamic assessment in bilingual children. Destiny has experience working as a school-based SLP, in private practice, and in early intervention. She is also the founder and CEO of Multimodal Communication Speech Clinic P.C.Connect with Destiny on Instagram @destinyjohnsonslp, on her private practice website here, and on LinkedIn here.Listen to Destiny's previous episode on De Facto Leaders here: EP 187: Dynamic Assessment: Evaluations are a process, not a test (with Destiny Johnson)Tiffany Shahoumian-Ruiz is a bilingual high school SLP from Southern California who has primarily worked in the school systems and has experience at both the elementary and secondary level. She's also a member of Language Therapy Advance Foundations, and is involved in state and local advocacy work relating to dynamic assessments and special education eligibility.Connect with Tiffany on Instagram @tiffany.shahoumianListen to Tiffany's previous episode on De Facto Leaders here: High school language therapy: Do we still have time to make an impact? (with Tiffany Shahoumian-Ruiz)In this episode, I mention Language Therapy Advance Foundations, my program that gives SLPs and other service providers create a system for language therapy. You can learn more about the program here.Additional Resources Mentioned in the episode:Daub, O., Cunningham, B. J., Bagatto, M. P., Johnson, A. M., Kwok, E. Y., Smyth, R. E., & Oram Cardy, J. (2021). Adopting a conceptual validity framework for testing in speech-language pathology. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 30(4), 1894–1908. https://doi.org/10.1044/2021_AJSLP-20-00032Spaulding, T. J., Plante, E., & Farinella, K. A. (2006). Eligibility criteria for language impairment: Is the low end of normal always appropriate? Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools, 37(1), 61–72. https://doi.org/10.1044/0161-1461(2006/007)DYMOND Norm-Referenced Dynamic AssessmentBilingual English-Spanish Assessment (BESA) We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments
What's really happening when a metal vocalist growls, screams, or distorts their sound—and how does the larynx handle that intensity? In this episode, we sit down with Amanda Stark PhD, CCC-SLP, who studies heavy metal singing under videostroboscopy, giving us a rare, real-time look at the biomechanics behind extreme vocals. On today's episode, we explore how researchers are beginning to capture and understand the vocal strategies behind metal techniques, what early visual data can (and can't) tell us, and why this work is reshaping assumptions about vocal health. From the challenges of studying extreme sound production to the potential implications for singers and clinicians, this conversation highlights the cutting-edge of voice science.
Language assessments shape who gets services, how goals are written, and how progress is measured, but there are many misconceptions about how to follow best-practices when doing an evaluation. In this three-part series, bilingual SLPs Destiny Johnson and Tiffany Shahoumian-Ruiz join me to dig into the science, the myths, and the policies that shape evaluation practices in schools.Across these conversations, we explore:Sensitivity, specificity, reference standards, and diagnostic accuracyHow test development has evolved over time and why this matters Why the same cut-off score shouldn't apply across all testsThe math behind using two norm-referenced tests, and why it may complicate rather than clarify in some casesOther reasons we test beyond diagnosis (treatment planning, severity, monitoring progress)How do we do we to “sell” the concept of dynamic assessment to administratorsCase studies that show the pitfalls of over-reliance on standardized scoresMisconceptions clinicians often hold, and what they should know about assessmentDifferences in state eligibility standards, and what this means for service decisionsThis series is part myth-busting, part practical strategies, and part advocacy playbook—perfect for clinicians who want to move beyond compliance-driven evaluations toward assessments that truly reflect students' needs.You can listen to Part 1 of the series here.Destiny Johnson, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a bilingual speech-language pathologist (English/Spanish) with a deep passion for culturally responsive assessment and treatment practices, as well as advocating for policy change. She has presented on dynamic assessment at the CSHA Convergence 2024, focusing on the importance of dynamic assessment in bilingual children. Destiny has experience working as a school-based SLP, in private practice, and in early intervention. She is also the founder and CEO of Multimodal Communication Speech Clinic P.C.Connect with Destiny on Instagram @destinyjohnsonslp, on her private practice website here, and on LinkedIn here.Listen to Destiny's previous episode on De Facto Leaders here: EP 187: Dynamic Assessment: Evaluations are a process, not a test (with Destiny Johnson)Tiffany Shahoumian-Ruiz is a bilingual high school SLP from Southern California who has primarily worked in the school systems and has experience at both the elementary and secondary level. She's also a member of Language Therapy Advance Foundations, and is involved in state and local advocacy work relating to dynamic assessments and special education eligibility.Connect with Tiffany on Instagram @tiffany.shahoumianListen to Tiffany's previous episode on De Facto Leaders here: High school language therapy: Do we still have time to make an impact? (with Tiffany Shahoumian-Ruiz)In this episode, I mention Language Therapy Advance Foundations, my program that gives SLPs and other service providers create a system for language therapy. You can learn more about the program here.Additional Resources Mentioned in the episode:Daub, O., Cunningham, B. J., Bagatto, M. P., Johnson, A. M., Kwok, E. Y., Smyth, R. E., & Oram Cardy, J. (2021). Adopting a conceptual validity framework for testing in speech-language pathology. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 30(4), 1894–1908. https://doi.org/10.1044/2021_AJSLP-20-00032Spaulding, T. J., Plante, E., & Farinella, K. A. (2006). Eligibility criteria for language impairment: Is the low end of normal always appropriate? Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools, 37(1), 61–72. https://doi.org/10.1044/0161-1461(2006/007)DYMOND Norm-Referenced Dynamic AssessmentBilingual English-Spanish Assessment (BESA) We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments
NSSEO District Coaches Tara Hanson and Sheena Gunia sit down to chat with Shannon Wess and Carly Franzgrote to talk about their upcoming sessions at the NSSEO Institute Day on January 5, 2026. Shannon will be presenting Beyond Compliance: Earning Instructional Control While Prioritizing Dignity and Respect - Easter Seals - AM Session 8:30-11:30. Carly's session titled Look Who's Talking! Increasing Communication Across Environments - Easter Seals - PM Session will be from 12:30-3:30 both at Harper College. NSSEO and member district staff can click on the links to register through Kickup. You won't want to miss these! Shannon Wess, MSW, BCBA, is a behavior analyst with a strong background in autism services, special education coaching, and staff development. She has led training and professional learning programs that energize and empower educators, and she created First Response, an autism awareness program for first responders. Shannon has presented at regional, national, and international conferences. She holds a master's in social work with a behavioral health focus and a post-master's certificate in applied behavior analysis. Carly Franzgrote, MS, CCC-SLP, is an Autism Specialist with the Illinois Autism Partnership. She began her career as a respite care provider, which sparked her passion for supporting individuals with autism and complex communication needs. As a speech-language pathologist in school settings, Carly developed deep expertise in AAC, functional communication, and coaching teams to carry over communication strategies. She holds a BA in elementary education with a special education endorsement and an MS in speech-language pathology from St. Ambrose University, along with her LBS1 and ASHA clinical certification. You can find more information about the important work that Shannon and Carly do at EasterSeals, along with helpful resources on their website. Also, follow them on Instagram @eastersealsiap.
Guests: Chelsie Esek-Onyeahialam, MS, CCC-SLP, and Jordyn R. Montique, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/cours...If you're an advocate for creating inclusive spaces, an ally for growing diversity within our profession, and want to engage in professional networking through evidence-based empowerment, then y'all, this is the hour for you!Chelsie and Jordyn educate colleagues on “White Supremacy Culture” and how it manifests in the field of speech therapy, discuss common barriers BIPOC individuals encounter when entering the profession, and inspire us all with strategies our field can take to overcome them.Show Notes:#BlackSLPMagic: https://www.blackslpmagic.org#BlackSLPMagic Linktree: https://linktr.ee/blackslpmagicJRC the SLP: https://beacons.ai/jrc_theslpEsek Health: https://linktr.ee/EsekHealthCulturally Responsive Clinician Handbook: https://www.raynetherapy.com/thecultu...About the Guests: Chelsie Esek-Onyeahialam, MS, CCC-SLP is a highly respected, board-certified Speech-Language Pathologist whose career reflects both academic excellence and an unwavering dedication to healthcare equity. A proud Magna Cum Laude graduate of Howard University with a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Chelsie has devoted her expertise primarily to acute care, where she champions improved access, outcomes, and advocacy for underserved communities.Jordyn R. Montique, M.S., CCC-SLP is a speech-language pathologist and the owner of RAYNE Therapy, a private practice providing therapy for clients, school contracting, and professional development hours (PDHs). She is the author of The Culturally Responsive Clinician Handbook and the creator of JRCtheSLP, LLC, where she speaks, consults, and develops diverse therapy materials.
What happens when the body's connective tissue is too flexible — and how does that impact the way we speak, breathe, and swallow? In this episode, we sit down with Stacey Menton MM, MA, CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist who not only treats patients with hypermobility Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) , but lives with HSD herself. Join us as we break down the hallmark features of hEDS and HSD, why symptoms often go unrecognized, and how clinicians can better support patients who live with “stretchy” tissues but very real limitations. For clinicians, patients, and curious listeners alike, we hope this episode offers a grounded and empathetic look at one of the most frequently misunderstood connective-tissue disorders.
In this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, is joined by Dr. Amy Talbot, Director and Clinical Psychologist of the Talbot Centre in Australia, to unpack the well-established overlap between Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) and Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). For SLPs new to this area of practice, the lines between roles and responsibilities, particularly with respect to each diagnosis, can be blurry, and Dr. Talbot is here to clean it all up!If you are curious as to what the differences are between PFD and ARFID and want to learn more about how a psychologist can contribute to the care of clients with feeding-related concerns (PFD/ARFID) as part of a multidisciplinary team, then be sure to join this conversation.By the end of the hour, Amy plans to equip guests with strategies for building relationships with suitably trained or qualified psychologists as part of their referral network, aiming to grow a robust interprofessional practice team.Show Notes: Feeding Matters: https://www.feedingmatters.orgTalbot Centre: https://thetalbotcentre.com.auButterfly Foundation: https://butterfly.org.auAbout the Guest(s): Dr Amy Talbot (she/her) is a multi-award-winning clinical psychologist and director of The Talbot Centre, a multidisciplinary service in Sydney. Her work focuses on eating, feeding, and body image concerns, with an emphasis on neurodiversity-affirming, family-centred care. Amy is a sought-after presenter, supervisor, and researcher, known for advancing interdisciplinary approaches to complex case formulation and integrating lived experience perspectives to improve outcomes for individuals with ARFID and related feeding disorders.Follow First Bite: https://linktr.ee/FirstBitePodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36kfA1xbU156vHPilALVoJ?si=086bed1210af45d5Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-bite/id1399630680
Want to share your feedback? Send us a message!Dr. Shahriar SheikhBahaei, Assistant Professor of Neurobiology and Behavior at Stony Brook University, joins host Sara MacIntyre, M.A., CCC-SLP, to discuss emerging research exploring the cellular and neurobiological mechanisms underlying stuttering. Dr. SheikhBahaei shares his journey from lived experience with stuttering to leading a neuroscience research lab investigating how glial cells, particularly astrocytes, contribute to motor control and speech-related circuits.The conversation delves into several recent studies from his lab that utilize mouse models to uncover how alterations in astrocyte function and iron regulation may relate to the neural pathways involved in stuttering. Dr. SheikhBahaei walks listeners through the background, scientific rationale, and key findings of these studies, highlighting what they reveal about the non-vocal motor aspects of stuttering and how this basic science may inform future directions in understanding and treatment.The episode concludes with reflections on bridging laboratory research with the lived experiences of people who stutter and fostering collaboration among scientists, clinicians, and the stuttering community.Resources discussed:SheikhBahaei, S., et al. (2025). Non-vocal motor deficits in a transgenic mouse model linked to stuttering disorders. bioRxiv. https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.08.08.669441v2SheikhBahaei, S., et al. (2025). Iron dysregulation in mice engineered with a mutation associated with stuttering. bioRxiv. https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.07.30.667752v1SheikhBahaei, S., et al. (2024). Scientists, society, and stuttering: A multi-stakeholder approach. International Journal of Clinical Practice. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ijcp.13678Shahriar SheikhBahaei, Ph.D., is a neuroscientist and faculty member at Stony Brook University. His research focuses on how the brain controls complex motor behaviors such as speech and breathing, particularly focusing on the role of astrocytes in neural circuits. Growing up with stuttering has influenced his lifelong pursuit to understand the neurobiology of speech and communication. He completed his Ph.D. in Neuroscience through a joint program at University College London and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He later became one of the first Independent Research Scholars at NIH, where he established his own lab. At Stony Brook University, he continues to investigate the cellular and circuit foundations of speech disorders while also mentoring the next generation of scientists and advocating for more inclusive perspectives on communication.
In this episode of First Bite, host Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, wraps up October's AAC Awareness Month with one of her favorite guests, Stephen Kneece, MS, CCC-SLP! Stephen, founder of Speech and Language Songs on Instagram, is an AAC guru with Forbes AAC, a seasoned school-based SLP, and former Department Chair of Speech-Language Pathology at Columbia College. Did we mention he's also a vocalist and guitarist too?!?Tune in (pun intended) as Stephen guides us through the clinical decision-making process for AAC selection for the little ones on our caseloads, provides easy step-by-step directions for the evaluation-to-funding process, and shares alternative funding options when insurance denies.If you're new to AAC or to Forbes AAC, this episode will be sure to answer questions you didn't even know you had!Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/strategies-for-starting-aacAbout the Guest: Stephen Kneece, MS CCC-SLP, is an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist with a deep-rooted passion for enhancing communication through technology. With a background that began in media arts and music, Stephen's journey led him to discover his true calling in speech-language pathology. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts with a minor in Music from the University of South Carolina and went on to obtain his Master of Arts in Speech Pathology and Audiology from South Carolina State University. Stephen's professional path took shape during his nine years as a pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist in South Carolina's public schools. It was here that he discovered his passion for working with Augmentative and Alternative Communication, finding immense fulfillment in helping children with complex communication needs express themselves. This experience sparked his dedication to AAC, laying the foundation for his future endeavors in the field. Before assuming his current role, Stephen served as Chair of the Speech-Language Pathology Program at Columbia College. He also served as a Lecturer and Clinical Supervisor. During his time there, he taught courses such as Phonetics, Language Acquisition & Development, Language Disorders, Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Technology, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication, while also guiding and mentoring students through their clinical practicums. In addition, Stephen spent four years teaching the Augmentative and Alternative Communication course at the University of South Carolina. His dedication to teaching and mentorship has left a lasting impact on the next generation of SLP professionals. In addition to his work in academia, Stephen's innovative approach to therapy includes the creation of Speech and Language Songs, a platform that merges his love for music with speech therapy. His contributions to the field have been recognized both locally and nationally, including receiving the Louis M. DiCarlo Award for Outstanding Clinical Achievement in 2024.Follow First Bite: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36kfA1xbU156vHPilALVoJ?si=0be088bb08894091Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-bite/id1399630680
In this episode of “Swallow Your Pride,” host Theresa Richard speaks with George Barnes MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S and Ross Dunbar from Progia Medical about innovative technologies for dysphagia care. They discuss the Swallow Therapy System (STS) and Insta device, which provide objective, quantifiable data for tongue strength assessment and therapy. The conversation highlights the importance […] The post 383 – From Research to Reality: The Innovative Devices Revolutionizing Swallowing Therapy appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.
Full conversation with Melissa Davis, MS, CCC-SLP and Jenna Nassar, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, for "Intraprofessional Practice: Strategies for Effective Collaboration Between SLPs" an episode of the First Bite podcast.Hosted by: Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-SEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/intraprofessional-practice-strategiesIn this episode of First Bite, we're exploring what effective intraprofessional practice really looks like for SLPs in pediatrics. When colleagues collaborate well, everyone benefits—especially the little ones we serve.Join Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, as she interviews Melissa Davis, MS, CCC-SLP, owner of Speech Therapy for Kids and co-owner of Kids Therapy Spot in Starkville and Columbus, MS, and Jenna Nassar, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, clinician and instructor in the Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Together, they share how they make intraprofessional collaboration work for optimal continuity of care.Tune in to learn what a typical day looks like for a pediatric medical SLP in different settings, discover strategies to strengthen your clinical skills across those settings, and gain practical ideas for communicating effectively—even across hundreds of miles—so that the little ones on both your caseloads thrive.About the Guest(s): Melissa Davis, MS CCC-SLP, is the owner of Speech Therapy for Kids and co-owner of Kids Therapy Spot located in Starkville and Columbus, MS. Melissa received her bachelor's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Middle Tennessee State University in May of 2000 and her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Mississippi University for Women in May of 2002. Melissa worked for two rehabilitation companies from 2002 to 2009, providing speech therapy services in homes and daycare centers for children in the early intervention program. In January 2010, Melissa went into private practice. She now has two outpatient clinics in Starkville and Columbus, MS, in addition to contracting speech therapy services at three Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Facilities and the private schools in Starkville, MS. In addition to owning a private practice, Melissa continues to be a treating SLP primarily focusing on treating children with pediatric feeding disorders at her two outpatient clinics, in addition to the PPEC in Starkville, MS. She also consults on patients with PFD at the PPECs located in Meridian and Columbus, MS. Melissa is an active volunteer with Feeding Matters and was on the 2023 and 2024 ASHA PFD topic committee. She consistently speaks to undergraduate and graduate students at various universities about PFD and has also had numerous speaking engagements, presenting information on opening and operating a private practice.Jenna Nassar, MS CCC-SLP, BCS-S, is a pediatric speech pathologist and an instructor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Cancer at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. In addition to these roles, she also serves as the pediatric outpatient team leader, clinical Internship coordinator for the Department of Speech Pathology, and as a member of the cleft and craniofacial team. She specializes in pediatric swallowing and feeding disorders and serves patients both inpatient and outpatient at Batson Children's Hospital. She holds Board Certification in swallow and swallowing disorders through the ABSSD. She is trained in a variety of treatment approaches for feeding and swallowing disorders. She is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the Mississippi Speech-Language-Hearing Association, SIG 13, and Feeding Matters. She was awarded the 2023 Clinical Achievement Award from the Mississippi Speech-Language-Hearing Association and the Association's Honors in 2025. In 20024, she served on the Pediatric Feeding...
In this episode of the Untethered podcast, Hallie Bulkin and her daughters, Lily and Mia, share their experiences with dental expanders and clear aligners. They discuss the feelings associated with getting and removing expanders, the transition to Invisalign, and the daily challenges and funny moments that arise during their orthodontic journeys. Hallie also provides an update on her own dental treatment, emphasizing the importance of airway health and the overall benefits of these dental appliances for both children and adults.In this episode, you'll learn:✔️The experience of getting an expander can be uncomfortable but is manageable.✔️Removing the expander can feel liberating and improve speech.✔️Clear aligners offer more flexibility compared to fixed expanders.✔️Daily life with Invisalign includes challenges like remembering to wear them.✔️Kids can adapt well to orthodontic treatments with the right support.✔️Funny stories often arise from the challenges of wearing dental appliances.✔️Maintaining good hygiene and care for aligners is crucial.✔️Airway health is an important aspect of orthodontic treatment.✔️Parents should encourage kids to share their experiences with peers.✔️Open communication about dental treatments can help alleviate fears. RELATED EPISODES YOU MIGHT LOVEEp 331: Inside My MARPE Journey with Hallie Bulkin, MA, CCC-SLP, CMT®, CPFT™Episode 322: Child Expansion Journey: Real Talks with Lily and MiaOTHER WAYS TO CONNECT & LEARN
Guest: Hannah Patten MSP, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/brain-injury-and-the-pediatric-slpPediatric brain injuries can happen for many different reasons, and they may affect speech, language, feeding, and even result in dysphagia. For many SLPs, working with children who have a brain injury can feel overwhelming, especially if this is a new population for you.In this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, sits down with Hannah Patten, MSP, CCC-SLP, from the Mayo Clinic. Hannah shares the most common causes of pediatric brain injuries, current evidence-based approaches for evaluation and treatment, and practical interventions that can make a real difference.You will leave with functional resources, new ideas, and the confidence to bring hope and support to these little ones and their families.About the Guest(s): Hannah Patten is a speech-language pathologist at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, working in acute care and as part of the Aerodigestive Clinic. She is involved in research projects examining the relationship between oropharyngeal dysphagia and aspiration-related lung disease. She previously worked at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta in inpatient rehabilitation and completed her clinical fellowship at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center. Her clinical interests include dysphagia across the lifespan, dysphagia evaluation and treatment in the ICU, pediatric and neonatal feeding and swallowing dysfunction, and tracheostomy and ventilator dependence.
#64: Can your baby learn to use a spoon and still do baby-led weaning? You bet…and it starts with the pre-loaded spoon technique. In this episode, speech-language pathologist and feeding expert Dawn Winkelmann, MS, CCC-SLP, breaks down how to safely introduce spoons and purees while ensuring your baby is the one leading the way. Dawn shares her 3-step method for pre-loading spoons, explains the developmental milestones behind spoon use, plus a rundown of what's wrong with most baby spoons and how to get your baby on board with self-feeding by spoon. Listen to this episode to learn: 1. The exact steps you can take during the first few days of baby-led weaning to help promote your baby's ability to independently feed from his or her first bites 2. Why most of the baby spoons on the market are designed for PARENTS to feed babies and why she developed the ezpz Tiny Spoon that lets BABIES be in charge of self-feeding 3. How your baby learns to dip and then scoop and then eat independently - Dawn's walking us through the various spoon-related feeding milestones in infant feeding Shownotes for this episode can be found here: https://www.babyledweaning.co/podcast/64 Links from this episode: • Check out Dawn's website at msdawnslp.com and follow her on Instagram @msdawnslp • Check out the ezpz Tiny Spoons and get 15% off with the code BABYLED here (this is an affiliate link) • This is the ezpz Developmental Utensil Set that parents love and get 15% off with the code BABYLED here (this is an affiliate link) • Baby-Led Weaning with Katie Ferraro program with the 100 First Foods™ Daily Meal Plan, join here: https://babyledweaning.co/program • Baby-Led Weaning for Beginners free online workshop with 100 First Foods™ list to all attendees, register here: https://babyledweaning.co/baby-led-weaning-for-beginners Other episodes related to this topic: • Episode 5 - The Purees for a Few Days™ Approach to Starting Solid Foods with Baby-Led Weaning: a Feeding Guide • Episode 200 - Combo Feeding: Can I Do BLW + Traditional Spoon-Feeding Together? with Gill Rapley, PhD