Podcasts about OTS

What if you could walk away from corporate pressure, create a career on your own terms, and finally feel like you're making a real difference? That's exactly what Meghan Powers did when she left the skilled nursing world and built her private practice, Gateway to the Rockies Speech Therapy, in Aurora, Colorado.Meghan is a speech-language pathologist who has spent her career helping adults. But, after years working in SNFs, she realized she could no longer align with productivity standards that prioritized numbers over patient care. That frustration became the catalyst for her private practice journey. Meghan's journey into speech therapy began early—she was inspired as a teen while shadowing therapists in a pediatric clinic. She went on to work with both kids and adults before spending nearly a decade in skilled nursing. Over time, however, the corporate-driven demands of that environment took their toll. She was tired of seeing patients rushed through sessions and wanted to provide care based on what her clients truly needed—not what fit into an arbitrary productivity model. So, she took a leap of faith, joined the Start Your Private Practice Program, and launched her own business.At first, Meghan worked part-time at an assisted living facility while building her caseload. Within months, she transitioned fully into private practice—treating clients on her own schedule and building strong community partnerships along the way.In this episode, Meghan shares how she runs Gateway to the Rockies Speech Therapy, serving adults with Parkinson's, stroke, and voice disorders. She's known for functional, patient-centered care and strong collaboration with ENTs and PTs. As a mom, Meghan values the freedom to design her schedule around her son's life, taking family time when she chooses—something her patients wholeheartedly support.In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Making the leap from employee to business owner (without overthinking it)Building strong referral relationships through genuine connectionBalancing parenthood, life, and business with intentionAnd why she believes the more of us in private practice, the betterMeghan's story is proof that you can take your clinical skills, your passion, and your values—and turn them into a thriving, fulfilling business. With courage and community support, she created a practice that gives her freedom, flexibility, and impact on her own terms.Ready to create a private practice that gives you the flexibility and fulfillment you deserve—just like Meghan has? The Start Your Private Practice Program will show you exactly how to do it, this is where Meghan and so many other SLPs and OTs have gotten the tools, systems, and confidence to make the leap. Visit www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com to learn more.Whether you want to Start or Grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.Resources Mentioned:Follow Meghan on Instagram:

Vince Stover breaks down top offensive tackle prospects for 2026 NFL Draft. Analyzes Spencer Fano, Kadyn Proctor, Francis Mauigoa as potential top-5 picks. Discusses second-tier tackles and rising stars. Predicts three OTs in top 10, six in first round RighteousFelon.com promo code STOVE15

Send us a textThe Ones Ready crew returns to burn down the house with a brutally honest breakdown of integrity, influence, and idiocy in the military influencer world. Jared's new book Wet Death gets high praise (and a bit of trolling), Aaron confesses his TV crimes, and Trent plays devil's advocate like a champ. The real fire? A scorched-earth takedown of Tim Kennedy—his alleged valor awards, inflated resume, and why stolen valor isn't just embarrassing—it's corrosive. Plus: a war room full of memes, Nate's jump-to-conclusions mat, and the Pentagon's real nuke warning system (hint: it's covered in cheese and pepperoni). If you're looking for polished PR, move along. If you want unfiltered, warfighter-level truth bombs with a side of sarcasm, welcome home.

“Another sign is not the answer—it dilutes the message.” - Corinn Soro Today on the pod, Cheryl sits down—virtually—with Senior Planner and Interior Designer Corinn Soro of Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, NY for a deep dive into wayfinding that actually works: why “visual pollution” erodes attention, how de-crapification clarifies intent, and where evidence-based choices can transform the patient journey from disorientation to ease.  Expect real examples—subway-style maps that set expectations at a glance, pictograms that land when words won't, and donor walls designed to evolve rather than date out—plus the small, cumulative tweaks that lower stress for visitors and staff alike.  Today's conversation is about design as reassurance, translating research into decisions that cut through noise and hand back control the moment someone walks through the door. What We Cover A 17-year-old's spark: geriatric care, neuroplasticity, and the built environment London roots: learning research methods alongside OTs and PTs; universal design for all bodies Evidence-Based Design in action: NICU decisions (sound, circadian light, infection control) backed by research “Visual pollution” vs. visual cues: the case for ruthless editing (“de-crapification”) before adding signs Wayfinding that works under stress: step-by-step instructions, few decision points, and reassurance cues Designing for low literacy: a color-and-letter “subway” system, line-of-travel markers, and proximity intuition Pictograms that actually communicate: testing, swapping out abstractions, and kid-friendly icons Measuring ROI: missed appointments, staff disruptions, and the real cost of poor wayfinding In-house rhythm at a research hospital: tight feedback loops, quick iterations, and process fixes Donor walls that age well: digital storytelling, magnetic plaques, and durable substrates Advocacy and pipeline: AMFP Upstate NY, craft labor realities, and manufacturing shifts ahead Big wish list: self-cleaning floors (for hospitals…and home) Why post-occupancy evaluations could prevent future design disasters (and why they rarely happen) Key Takeaways Edit before you add. Wayfinding succeeds when clutter is removed and destinations are made legible through architecture, lighting, and contrast—not just more signs. Design for the stressed brain. Fewer decision points + stepwise reassurance beat complex directions every time. Evidence accelerates approvals. EBD turns subjective taste debates into science-backed decisions leadership can green-light. Symbols > sentences. Tested pictograms improve comprehension across languages, ages, and literacy levels. Iterate in the wild. Being embedded with clinicians and patients surfaces quick wins you'll never catch from afar. Memorable Quotes from Corinn Soro “Another sign isn't the answer—it dilutes the message.” “Wayfinding is about giving choice back to patients when so much else is out of their control.” “If a space is ‘too quiet' for the engineer, it's probably just right for the neonates.” “Healthcare design is a team sport.” Resources & Links Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center — https://www.roswellpark.org/ AMFP Upstate New York Chapter — https://amfp.org/upstate-new-york Fiona Finer, the Interior Designer (ages 3–8) — https://www.amazon.com/Fiona-Finer-Interior-Designer-Corinn/dp/1720664889 EDAC Certification (Evidence-Based Design) — https://www.healthdesign.org/certification-outreach/edac Hablamos Juntos pictograms — https://www.theicod.org/resources/news-archive/segd-and-hablamos-juntos-introduce-new-universal-symbols-in-health-care Sisters of Charity Hospital (Buffalo, NY) — NICU project mentioned — https://www.chsbuffalo.org/sisters-of-charity-hospital/ Past HID2.0 episode featuring Tama Duffy Day — Episode 20 https://healthcareidpodcast.libsyn.com/2019/09 Connect with Corinn Soro Email: corinn.soro@roswellpark.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinn-soro-14859ab/ Our Industry Partners The world is changing quickly. The Center for Health Design is committed to providing the healthcare design and senior living design industries with the latest research, best practices and innovations. The Center can help you solve today's biggest healthcare challenges and make a difference in care, safety, medical outcomes, and the bottom line.  Find out more at healthdesign.org. Additional support for this podcast comes from our industry partners: The American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers The Nursing Institute for Healthcare Design Learn more about how to become a Certified Healthcare Interior Designer®  by visiting the American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers at: https://aahid.org/. Connect to a community interested in supporting clinician involvement in design and construction of the built environment by visiting The Nursing Institute for Healthcare Design at https://www.nursingihd.com/ ------------ The world is changing quickly. The Center for Health Design is committed to providing the healthcare design and senior living design industries with the latest research, best practices and innovations. The Center can help you solve today's biggest healthcare challenges and make a difference in care, safety, medical outcomes, and the bottom line.  Find out more at healthdesign.org. Additional support for this podcast comes from our industry partners: The American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers The Nursing Institute for Healthcare Design Learn more about how to become a Certified Healthcare Interior Designer®  by visiting the American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers at: https://aahid.org/. Connect to a community interested in supporting clinician involvement in design and construction of the built environment by visiting The Nursing Institute for Healthcare Design at https://www.nursingihd.com/ FEATURED PRODUCT Porcelanosa are at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing – clients not only expect this of their suppliers but are increasingly asking to see the receipts. Let's unpack this, did you know that hundreds of preeminent members of The American Institute of Architects –  The AIA – have signed the AIA Materials Pledge? The Pledge is aligned with the Mindful Materials Common Materials Framework – the CMF. This is just one, very impressive example of how the movement to support decision making for building product selection has reached new highs. We can see these explained as 5 pillars of sustainability: (The first) - Human Health: Focusing on avoiding hazardous substances and promoting well-being. (Then) - Social Health & Equity: Addressing human rights and fair labor practices throughout the supply chain. (The third) is Ecosystem Health: Supporting the regeneration of natural resources and habitats. (This is followed by) Climate Health: Reducing and sequestering carbon emissions. (And the fifth pillar) is The Circular Economy: Promoting a zero-waste future through design for resilience, adaptability, and reuse. I mentioned the receipts -How do we track the progress of these principles and values? Without measurement, there's no clear path to improvement or accountability. The Mindful Materials CMF maps a framework of over 650 sustainability factors across those five key areas. A cornerstone of material health transparency is an Environmental Product Declaration EPD report. The best are independently verified for accuracy by third party certification bodies – a company cannot mark their own report cards. EPDs are highly technical documents containing scientific information on the embodied carbon used to manufacture products. I have just read and included here an EPD for a Porcelanosa Tile – there are upwards of 1000 data inputs to quantify its climate impact. Porcelanosa offer the confidence and certainty of knowing that every tile, every slab of XTONE porcelain or KRION solid surface  has a Product Specific EPD – when architects and designers work with these materials they are making a robust decision to meet their sustainable design goals. To learn more about how Porcelanosa help their customers design for resiliency, here is a link to their comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility Report: https://www.porcelanosa.com/en/corporate-social-responsibility/

What if the stress, burnout, and uncertainty you're feeling right now are actually guiding you toward something better? That's exactly what happened to Kansas Staffy, who went from feeling overwhelmed in her clinical job to running a thriving private practice, Talk and Taste Pediatric Therapy, in Delta and Montrose, Colorado.Kansas is a speech-language pathologist who specializes in AAC and feeding therapy. After working in home health, and outpatient clinics, she realized that traditional settings weren't allowing her to take care of her health—or serve clients the way she wanted to.Like many clinicians, Kansas once said, “I never want to own a business.” But after facing health challenges and the stress of an audit at work, she knew something had to change. With encouragement from her husband and support from the Start Your Private Practice Program, she took the leap. Within six months, she grew from zero to 25 clients and a full caseload.Today, Kansas serves children from infancy through young adulthood, offering both home visits and office-based therapy. She continues to specialize in AAC and feeding while building strong relationships with families, OTs, and other local providers. Her practice is rooted in collaboration, flexibility, and creative problem-solving—especially important in a rural area with limited access to care.In this episode, Kansas talked about how she built her business with her health and lifestyle in mind. She works Tuesday through Friday, with built-in time for rest, billing, and medical appointments. Her husband, who manages the local grocery store, has even become an unofficial “referral source,” spreading the word about her services throughout the community.In this episode, we discuss:What helped her make that powerful mindset shift from employee to entrepreneurHow she built a client base in a small rural communityThe ways she connected with other professionals and programs to grow her practiceHow she built her schedule and systems around her health, her values, and her lifeKansas's story is proof that you can build a thriving private practice—even in a small town—when you combine persistence, creativity, and a clear sense of purpose. What started as a move for her health turned into a business that brings life-changing services to families who truly need them.Want to build a private practice that gives you freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment—just like Kansas has? The Start Your Private Practice Program gives you the tools and guidance to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.comWhether you want to Start or Grow a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.Resources Mentioned:Check out her website: talkandtastetherapy.comSend her an email:

Send us a textJared's sunburnt, unfiltered, and back in the war room (well, accidentally someone else's). In this raw members-only rant, he debriefs the San Diego Operator Training Summit, breaks down the PT standard panic in the Air Force, and flame-throws the idiocy of “Blues Mondays.” From watching 38 candidates grind it out to eviscerating the armchair critics of “warrior ethos,” this episode is a spicy casserole of truth bombs, sarcasm, and unsolicited leadership advice. Plus, why some folks are mad about "our boys" and how social media outrage might just be one big bot-fueled joke. Buckle up, because Jared's mic is hot and his patience is not.

Heart disease is the most common serious chronic condition among adults. In fact per the latest report staggering 1 in 3 US adults received care for a cardiovascular risk factor or condition in 2020. The same report projects that annual inflation-adjusted health care costs attributable to cardiovascular conditions will nearly quadruple from $393 billion in 2020 to $1,490 billion by 2050.Truly astounding numbers. Heart disease is an umbrella term that encompasses coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular disease, arrhythmias, congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathies, and other structural or functional heart disorders.But, despite this complexity, there is clear guidance from the American Heart Association about what to do to improve and maintain heart health, they call them them Life's Essential 8: 1. Consume a healthy diet emphasizing vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, lean proteins (including fish), and minimizing trans fats, red and processed meats, refined carbohydrates, and sweetened beverages.2. Maintain a healthy body weight through caloric restriction and counseling for those with overweight or obesity.3. Engage in regular physical activity, specifically at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity exercise.4. Avoid tobacco products and exposure to secondhand smoke.5. Limit alcohol intake to moderate levels, if consumed at all.6. Manage blood pressure through lifestyle changes and, if needed, medication.7. Control blood cholesterol with diet, physical activity, and medication when indicated.8. Prevent and manage diabetes with lifestyle modifications and appropriate pharmacologic therapy when necessary.We know that behavioral counseling for these lifestyle changes can be effective. But, to date, occupational therapy has been underutilized in this critical public health initiative. In today's course, we'll talk to one occupational therapist, Sabina Kahn, who is using her OT skill-set to help tackle this large scale problem, through new technologies. We'll discuss why OT has been under-utilized to date, what opportunities exist for OTs to play a larger role, and what new technologies might help us step into this critical role, with our unique expertise.Support the show

In this episode of Occupied, Dr Jessica Levick is joined by Dr Kieran Broome — occupational therapist, educator, and researcher, to explore how we can bridge the gap between what we know and what we do. We unpack the concept of knowledge translation and why it's essential for meaningful, evidence-informed occupational therapy practice. Kieran shares insights into how OTs can stay curious, reflective, and engaged in lifelong learning, no matter where they are in their career journey. Whether you're a student, clinician, or academic, this conversation will leave you inspired to think critically, learn continuously, and translate knowledge into everyday action. Instagram: @OccupiedPodcastFacebook: Occupied Podcast Host: Dr Jessica LevickSubscribe now and never miss an episode!

OTS & CIS summits, Trump-Aliyev Tensions, Armenia Opposition for 2026Groong Week in Review - October 12, 2025TopicsAliyev pushes “Zangezur Corridor” at OTSPashinyan pitches “Trump Route” at CISPutin–Aliyev meeting eases tensionsArmenia's opposition gears up for 2026GuestHrant MikaelianHostsHovik ManucharyanAsbed BedrossianEpisode 478 | Recorded: October 14, 2025https://podcasts.groong.org/478Subscribe and follow us everywhere you are: linktr.ee/groong

What if starting private practice could give you more freedom, fulfillment, and the ability to design work around your life—not the other way around? That's what Sirisha Duvvuru, founder of Your Speech Matters in Frisco, Texas, discovered when she stepped away from her 9–5.After 12 years in schools and home health, Sirisha loved her clients but felt weighed down by paperwork and limitations. At first, private practice felt intimidating, but she started small—with a simple flyer that landed her first client. What began as a side hustle quickly grew into a thriving feeding-focused practice and a source of freedom.In this episode, Sirisha shares how she specializes in pediatric feeding therapy, partners with families directly, and enjoys the flexibility to be present with her two children. From bubble tea dates with her kids to speaking at professional conferences, private practice has given her space to grow both as a mom and a clinician.In this episode, we discuss:From seeing private practice as “too intimidating” to starting with just one flyer on FacebookBuilt caseload through screenings & networkingCarved out a niche in pediatric feeding therapy with a trauma-informed approachPractice brings income and freedom as mom, wife, and womanSirisha's story is a reminder that private practice doesn't have to be overwhelming or complicated—you can build it step-by-step. By starting small, leaning into your expertise, and designing your business with intention, you can create a career that serves both your clients and your life.Want to create a private practice that gives you freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment—just like Sirisha has? Learn more about our Start Your Private Practice Program, where Sirisha and so many other SLPs and OTs have gotten the tools, systems, and confidence to make the leap. Visit www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com to learn more.Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.Resources Mentioned:Follow Sirisha on:Instagram: instagram.com/your_speechmatters/Facebook: Your Speech Matters PLLCLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sirisha-duvvuru-388406262Where We Can Connect: Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

OTs hold the key to school-wide success by grounding self-regulation in sensory-motor regulation—not just in emotions. In this episode, Sherry Shellenberger and Jennie Largent show how the Alert Program provides a foundational layer many SEL programs miss, share practical strategies for piloting change, and explain how to talk with administrators to secure support and funding. Tune in to learn clear steps to expand OT impact from individual support to whole-school change.Listen now to learn the following objectives:Identify and effectively communicate the value of sensory-motor self-regulation approaches to administrators and decision-makers by collecting meaningful data through pilot programs and by developing stakeholder-specific documentation.Identify opportunities to integrate self-regulation programs, such as The Alert Program for Self-Regulation, with existing SEL programs, and discover the foundational role of sensory-motor regulation in supporting emotional regulation.Identify strategies to be effective change agents within school settings by collaborating with colleagues, applying evidence-based practices, and establishing systems that demonstrate the unique value of the occupational therapy approach to self-regulation; discover approaches to sustain and scale impact. Visit pearsonassessments.com/OTResources to explore assessments designed with your clinical reasoning in mind. Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.comSee you in the next episode!

Blake Munroe, Gerry Hamilton, Carl Padilla, Bob Shipley, and Tim Buchanan brought the heat this week with stories, stats, and straight talk from across the state. Scoreboard Chaos! Week 6 was wild: -13 shutouts in 5A, 17 in 3A. -Multiple 70+ point games and even some six- and five-overtime thrillers! -Anderson topped A&M Consolidated in six OTs, and Palmview outlasted Rio Grande City in five OTs. -Major upsets! Coaches' Corner – Managing Blowouts: -Carl asked the big one: how do you keep a team grounded when you're blowing everybody out? -Coach Buchanan and Shipley shared war stories: sometimes you're up 14–0 after two plays. The key? Keep starters sharp but protect them. -Play backups, stress practice intensity, and focus on discipline, not scoreboards. Spotlight Player: Landon Williams-Callis: -Putting up video-game numbers: 369 yards and 6 TDs last week -Already at 1,200 yards in five games, averaging 300+ over his last three. -At 5'7”, 180 lbs, he's undersized but electric—great feet, balance, vision, and a chip on his shoulder. -With 60 offers, his college choice will hinge on scheme fit. Coaches compared him to Bijan Robinson on certain cuts—high praise! Game Picks of the Week: Carl: Willis vs. College Park Bob Shipley: Amarillo vs. Abilene High Jerry Hamilton: Kilgore vs. Henderson Coach Buck: Ryan vs. Aledo The crew wrapped up with one message: Texas high school football is chaos, history, and greatness all rolled into one—and Week 6 has it all. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Therapy for Your Money, Julie chats with Doug Vestal, a former Wall Street exec turned financial coach for therapists and OTs. They delve into the real financial challenges therapists face—such as high student loan debt and low starting salaries—and how these can lead to burnout if not addressed carefully. Doug shares the surprisingly simple wealth-building strategy that works (even if you're not a budget person), why your money mindset matters more than you think, and how early financial habits can set you up for long-term success. Doug also opens up about how a childhood memory shaped his entire financial philosophy. Whether you're solo or in a group practice, you'll walk away with practical ideas and a fresh perspective on money.Doug's book Financial Freedom for OTs: A Guide to Building Wealth Without Burnout is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Learn more about his work and his course, Private Pay MBA, at freedomofpractice.com.Links and ResourcesMoney for Therapists Practice Startup - https://www.greenoakaccounting.com/startupGreenOak Accounting - www.GreenOakAccounting.comTherapy For Your Money Podcast - www.TherapyForYourMoney.comProfit First for Therapists - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.comProfit First Academy - www.ProfitFirstForTherapists.com/Academy Podcast Production and Show Notes by Course Creation StudioGet our free KPI tracker to see how you practice measures up to others in the industry! www.therapyforyourmoney.com/kpi

It's no secret that I believe occupation therapy is entering its prevention era. We are starting to leverage our skillset not after a terrible health incident has occurred, but at the first sign of trouble. As I imagine this not-too-distant reality, there is one deeply personal area that I am so eager to see us shift our energy toward: Cancer prevention. Across the healthcare community, we are learning more and more about the specific lifestyle and environmental factors that put people at a higher risk for cancer. Case in point: My own county in rural Nebraska, where above-average pediatric cancer rates have been associated with high levels of nitrates in our water.On today's podcast, we are lucky to be joined by Dr. Jesse E. Bell, one of the world's leading experts on water and human health and the Claire M. Hubbard Professor of Water, Climate, and Health in the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Department of Environmental, Agricultural, and Occupational Health.Dr. Bell—who also is the author of the paper we will discuss during this episode—will help us understand where the science stands on the connection between nitrates and multiple health conditions. We'll talk through ways the medical community can provide education on these risks—as well as the simple solutions OTs could potentially bring to high-risk families to help address this basic ADL safety concern. This episode is meant to highlight the cutting edge of what's becoming possible—where new large datasets on environmental health risks converge with new opportunities in value-based care to create pathways for OTs to intervene earlier than we ever thought possible.Support the show

Today on OTS news, Kyle and Theo talk on the first trailer for Mandolorian & Grogu, the new gameplay trailer for Wolverine, and who should be next inducted in the WWE Hall of FameWant more Cousins Of The Cosmos? Click this link!https://linktr.ee/CousinsCosmosPod?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=5a4b4c99-46a6-41a0-8360-49e927bb4bfbKyle Bridger linkshttps://linktr.ee/KyleBridger?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=80918ffe-a20d-4821-bdf8-25e5839a7020Theo linkshttps://x.com/OTSBebop?t=feAbVdqOjDtuk6mGKt6t6g&s=09WNRN linkshttps://linktr.ee/WrestlingNerds?fbclid=PAY2xjawH6mKZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABpssIUm6DaBrF-SIQPd14hvBdlqrwOGKf-Mdv5EEFC4mD2vAXo75TqwKLrA_aem_PlCLVuN-1ZnivYpiMcudPgNostalgia Content!https://linktr.ee/Back2tha2000s?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=ae2e72c6-d6c1-468d-952a-f1aa91f45eceMerch links!OTSProject.comhttps://wnrn.printify.me/

In this episode, Beki takes you behind the scenes of what freedom truly means when you step away from traditional OT systems. From witnessing the beauty of a lunar eclipse in North Wales to world schooling her children in Kenya and Australia, she shares how creating an online occupational therapy business gave her the choice to live deliberately, in alignment with her values. You will discover: Why OTs often feel trapped by annual leave restrictions and rigid schedules, and how to break free The power of nature and travel in reconnecting to your purpose as an Occupational Therapist How building an online business allows you to design a lifestyle of choice, flexibility, and financial independence Real-life examples of replacing burnout and bureaucracy with awe, adventure, and aligned work Practical mindset shifts OTs need to move from “I can't” to “I get to” Beki opens up about her move from urban Derbyshire to a working farm in North Wales, how she used her online business to travel the world with her children, and why control over what, when, where and with whom you work is the truest definition of wealth for occupational therapists. Whether you are an OT dreaming of leaving behind the rigid NHS system, craving more time with family, or longing to align your career with your values, this conversation will show you that freedom is not just possible, it is waiting for you. Connect with Beki Are you ready to leave the whinger mindset behind and embrace your inner go-getter? Beki helps OTs worldwide design, launch, and scale their online busi Free Resource: Download Beki's free overnight mindset meditation for free to help you build confidence, overcome money mindset challenges, and develop self-belief. Join OT Yourself To Freedom Membership: Discover the only membership designed specifically for OTs to create freedom-based businesses by leveraging the skills you already have. Learn to design and sell offers, market effectively, and align your work with your purpose. nesses. Learn how to tap into your purpose and create an offer that sells with ease.. Follow Beki: Website: www.bekieakins.com Instagram: OT Yourself to Freedom Facebook Group: OT Freedom Community LinkedIn: Beki Eakins Book an Inspiration Call: Click here Key time stamp [00:01:00] – Why OTs should question traditional work setups and embrace lifestyle choice [00:05:00] – The move from urban Derbyshire to rural North Wales and the impact of nature on wellbeing [00:07:00] – How creating an online OT business unlocked the freedom to live and work anywhere [00:10:00] – Travel, world schooling, and the gift of showing children awe and resilience through global experiences [00:22:00] – Beki's core message to OTs: you are not stuck, freedom is possible when you take control of your choices About the Podcast OT Yourself To Freedom Podcast helps occupational therapists create a life and business they love. Host Beki Eakins shares practical tips, strategies, and real-world stories to inspire your journey to freedom Love this episode? Subscribe to OT Yourself to Freedom and leave a review! Your feedback helps more OTs break free from burnout and build a business they love.

Lindsay Watson, PT, CEO, and Co-Founder of Augment Therapy, is on a mission to blend augmented reality (AR) and virtual care to transform therapy. Augment Therapy offers interactive AR rehabilitation exercises and fun wellness games designed to encourage movement and improve outcomes at home and in person. With their ARWell PRO app, therapists can use the software during sessions and give patients free access at home, all while tracking progress through a customized, gamified platform.While Augment Therapy is currently used primarily by OTs and PTs, Lindsay shares exciting plans to expand into speech therapy. We also discuss the benefits of telehealth when applied intentionally and how leveraging technology can enhance repetition, generalization, and engagement—turning a tool that's often seen as a negative into a powerful ally for therapy success.#autism #speechtherapy What's Inside:What is Augment Therapy?How can Augmented Reality impact therapy.Blending expertise and virtual care.Mentioned In This Episode:Augment Therapy Join the aba speech connection  ABA Speech: HomeThe BriefAll your family's pressing concerns and questions, answered in one place. Mike...Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

In this episode of the Untethered Podcast, Hallie Bulkin discusses the complexities of pediatric feeding, focusing on lip ties, latch issues, and the misconceptions surrounding 'lazy bottles.' She emphasizes the importance of functional assessments over labels, advocating for a comprehensive approach to feeding therapy. Hallie provides practical takeaways for clinicians and introduces the Pediatric Feeding Hub as a resource for support and mentorship in the field.In this episode, you'll learn”✔️Babies inherently need to feed to survive.✔️Labels like 'lazy' are dismissive and unhelpful.✔️Functional assessment is crucial in feeding therapy.✔️Not all lip ties require surgical intervention.✔️Therapy should be prioritized before referrals.✔️Latch issues involve more than just the mouth.✔️Collaboration with other professionals is essential.✔️Assess the whole baby, including posture and tone.✔️Feeding is a complex skill that requires support.✔️The Pediatric Feeding Hub offers valuable resources for therapists.RELATED EPISODES YOU MIGHT LOVEEpisode 318: Feed The Peds®: The Mission with Hallie Bulkin, MA CCC-SLP, CMT®, CPFT™Ep 337: Unlocking Pediatric Feeding: Expert Strategies with Hallie Bulkin, MA, CCC-SLP, CMT®, CPFT™✨DOORS ARE OPEN to PEDIATRIC FEEDING HUB™A mentorship-driven membership for pediatric SLPs, OTs & PTs who want to grow,clinically & confidently. Get weekly office hours, on-demand replays, a private members-only Facebook community, and Ask HallieAI your on-demand clinical guide.

In this episode, I'm sitting down with Alice Ayliffe and Elise Cassidy — two incredible therapists and Incubator graduates — to explore what it really looks like to move beyond the 1:1 model and create programs that change lives.If you've ever wondered, Where do I even start? Will anyone want what I create? What if I get it wrong? — this conversation is for you.Alice is an occupational therapist based in Hobart who has carved out a powerful niche supporting adults with ADHD and training other OTs to work in this space. Elise is a Melbourne-based speech pathologist with nearly 30 years of experience, who has turned her deep passion for dyslexia advocacy into online programs and resources for parents and schools.Neither of them had it “all figured out.” They both wrestled with doubts about burnout, regulation, self-belief, and fear of judgment from peers. But through the Incubator, they found clarity, community, and the confidence to build programs that not only generate income but also expand their impact far beyond the therapy room.In this episode, Alice and Elise share the barriers they had to push through, the wins they've achieved, and the advice they'd give to any therapist standing where they once stood.HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE:Burnout can be a signal, not the end. Both Alice and Elise hit walls in their careers that forced them to look beyond the traditional therapy path. That pain became the nudge toward innovation.Fear of judgment is universal — but it's survivable. Whether it was Elise worrying about peers judging her for charging for her knowledge, or Alice fearing regulatory trouble, both show that self-doubt doesn't disqualify you.Programs expand your reach without diluting your expertise. Dyslexia advocacy, ADHD-affirming practice, and OT supervision are now impacting parents, schools, and other clinicians — proof that your clinical skills are needed in new spaces.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:The Therapist Rising Incubator – For therapists ready to create their first sustainable online program with ongoing support: therapistsrising.com/incubatorConnect with Alice Ayliffe:Website: aliceayliffe.comFacebook: Alice Ayliffe ConsultingConnect with Elise Cassidy:Website: littlevoices.net.auFacebook: Little Voices Speech PathologyInstagram: @littlevoicesspeechpathologyMORE FROM DR. HAYLEY KELLYFollow me on Instagram @dr.hayleykelly for daily insights on therapist innovation and sustainable practiceSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf this episode gave you clarity or encouragement to believe you can create something beyond the therapy room, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more therapists who are ready to diversify their work and build sustainable businesses.Thanks for tuning in to Therapists Rising — see you next time!

This week on OTS news, Kyle and Theo talk about the new Skate. game, Emmy winners, and the worst title designs in professional wrestling historyWant more Cousins Of The Cosmos? Click this link!https://linktr.ee/CousinsCosmosPod?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=5a4b4c99-46a6-41a0-8360-49e927bb4bfbKyle Bridger linkshttps://linktr.ee/KyleBridger?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=80918ffe-a20d-4821-bdf8-25e5839a7020Theo linkshttps://x.com/OTSBebop?t=feAbVdqOjDtuk6mGKt6t6g&s=09WNRN linkshttps://linktr.ee/WrestlingNerds?fbclid=PAY2xjawH6mKZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABpssIUm6DaBrF-SIQPd14hvBdlqrwOGKf-Mdv5EEFC4mD2vAXo75TqwKLrA_aem_PlCLVuN-1ZnivYpiMcudPgNostalgia Content!https://linktr.ee/Back2tha2000s?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=ae2e72c6-d6c1-468d-952a-f1aa91f45eceMerch links!OTSProject.comhttps://wnrn.printify.me/

Ready to reignite your passion for occupational therapy and create a career that fuels you instead of draining you? In this inspiring episode of OT Yourself to Freedom, Beki Eakins chats with Rhiannon Crispe, Australian occupational therapist, founder of the OT Lifestyle Movement, and co-creator of the groundbreaking The Burn In Model. Rhiannon shares how she moved from traditional hospital and rehab roles into a values-led OT practice that lights her up every day. Her message is clear: occupation is medicine, and when OTs align their being, doing and belonging, they can burn in instead of burning out. What You'll Learn in This Episode How the The Burn In Model helps occupational therapists prevent burnout and rediscover their love for the profession Why strong boundaries are essential to protect your energy and keep your inner flame alive Practical ways to use meaningful occupation as a tool for mental health, physical health and professional fulfilment How to build a flexible, lifestyle-aligned OT business without getting lost in paperwork or outdated systems Tips for pioneering new OT roles in surf therapy, yoga, holistic wellness and other non-traditional practice areas Whether you're a paediatric OT, mental health therapist, or an occupational therapist exploring online business, this episode is packed with SEO-rich insights on: occupational therapy burnout, OT career change, OT entrepreneurship, holistic occupational therapy, and how to start an OT business that aligns with your values. Connect with Beki Are you ready to leave the whinger mindset behind and embrace your inner go-getter? Beki helps OTs worldwide design, launch, and scale their online busi Free Resource: Download Beki's free overnight mindset meditation for free to help you build confidence, overcome money mindset challenges, and develop self-belief. Join OT Yourself To Freedom Membership: Discover the only membership designed specifically for OTs to create freedom-based businesses by leveraging the skills you already have. Learn to design and sell offers, market effectively, and align your work with your purpose. nesses. Learn how to tap into your purpose and create an offer that sells with ease.. Follow Beki: Website: www.bekieakins.com Instagram: OT Yourself to Freedom Facebook Group: OT Freedom Community LinkedIn: Beki Eakins Book an Inspiration Call: Click here Connect with Rhiannon Crispe Rhiannon is an experienced Australian occupational therapist, international speaker, and the creative force behind the OT Lifestyle Movement. Over her 16+ year career, she has worked across hospital settings, workplace rehabilitation, and paediatrics, eventually building her own thriving mobile paediatric practice. Driven by a passion for holistic, values-led care, Rhiannon founded the OT Lifestyle Movement to showcase innovative practice and inspire OTs to design careers that truly align with who they are. She also co-created The Burn In Model, a modern occupational therapy framework that helps professionals and the clients they serve burn in rather than burn out. Her mission is simple but powerful: put occupation back at the centre of therapy and empower OTs worldwide to create meaningful, freedom-based careers. Connect with Rhiannon Crispe Website: OT Lifestyle MovementYouTube: The OT Lifestyle MovementInstagram: @rhiannoncrispeFacebook: Rhiannon Dow About the Podcast OT Yourself To Freedom Podcast helps occupational therapists create a life and business they love. Host Beki Eakins shares practical tips, strategies, and real-world stories to inspire your journey to freedom Love this episode? Subscribe to OT Yourself to Freedom and leave a review! Your feedback helps more OTs break free from burnout and build a business they love.

Dr. Nancy Byl, a pioneer in neuroplasticity and expert in focal dystonia, joins host J.J. Mowder-Tinney for a dynamic conversation on how OTs and PTs can rethink assessment and intervention for this underrecognized movement disorder. J.J. brings curiosity and clinical insight as they explore the sensory origins of dystonia, surprising traits shared by many patients, and why behavioral retraining may hold more promise than you think. Along the way, Dr. Byl shares case examples, brain mapping data, and creative treatment strategies grounded in decades of experience. Tune in to discover how targeted sensory retraining—and a little outside-the-box thinking—may help retrain the brain.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around the definition, diagnosis, and prevalence of focal dystonia (FD)Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to address the treatment of FD, grounded in principles of neuroplasticity and behavioral interventions, and to support engagement in meaningful occupationsSolve patient case scenarios involving FD while integrating current research, clinical reasoning, and potential directions for future investigationTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:01:05) Introduction to guest and focal dystonia research(00:06:56) Understanding focal dystonia in context(00:11:16) The impact of focal dystonia on lives(00:16:01) Personality traits and focal dystonia(00:18:35) Neuroscience insights into dystonia(00:24:39) Behavioral retraining and dystonia(00:28:18) Patient characteristics and outcomes(00:33:49) Assessment techniques for dystonia(00:46:08) Innovative treatment approaches(00:47:17) The role of behavioral training in recovery(00:49:46) Real-life retraining success stories and insightsNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you'd like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you'll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigators⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If you'd like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠IG: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

Ep 337: Unlocking Pediatric Feeding: Expert Strategies with Hallie BulkinIn this episode of the Untethered Podcast™, Hallie discusses the intricacies of pediatric feeding assessments and treatments. She emphasizes the importance of thorough assessments that include parent interviews, oral motor examinations, and understanding airway issues. Hallie also highlights the significance of parent coaching and creating functional treatment plans that involve parents in the process. Additionally, she introduces her course, Feed the Peds®, designed to equip therapists with the necessary skills and confidence to effectively address pediatric feeding challenges.If this episode has resonated with you in some way, take a screenshot of you listening, post it to your Instagram Stories, and tag Hallie @halliebulkin In this episode, you'll learn:✔️The doors to Feed the Peds® are officially open.✔️A feeding assessment just means watching and documenting.✔️Parent interviews are gold.✔️We need to connect the dots between airway and feeding.✔️If parents don't know what to do at home, we have failed them.✔️Treatment has to be functional.✔️Postural stability is the foundation for progress.✔️Food play needs to be intentional, not just exposure.✔️You need clarity, strategy, support, and repetition.RELATED EPISODES YOU MIGHT LOVEEpisode 318: Feed The Peds®: The Mission with Hallie Bulkin, MA CCC-SLP, CMT®, CPFT™Ep 335: The #1 Way to Transform Your Pediatric Feeding Evaluations✨DOORS ARE OPEN!Join Hallie, Karen & Cheryl in Feed The Peds® and learn to critically assess, treat the whole child, and transform lives.✨ Over 2,607+ SLPs & OTs have graduated—now it's your turn.⚡️ Enrollment is open until 9/18 at midnight ET. Don't miss out >> feedthepeds.com

What if the hardest moment in your life became the spark that pushed you to finally follow your dream? That's what happened for Andrea Gingras, who turned loss, burnout, and a desire for freedom into the driving force behind her private practice, Love Without Words: Speech Therapy, in Concord, California.Andrea is a speech-language pathologist who has always loved working with kids. After years in schools, nonprofits, and private practices, she found herself burned out by compliance-heavy approaches and the daily grind of long hours away from her family.When a former client's family reached out to tell Andrea that their son Ben — who had inspired her early passion for strength-based, child-led communication was entering hospice, something shifted. Love Without Words was born — a name and mission inspired directly by Ben. With the support of the Start Your Private Practice Program, Andrea learned the logistics of setting up her business.Today, Andrea creates her own schedule, chooses the clients she wants to serve, and uses a strength-based approach to help autistic and minimally verbal children thrive.Andrea specializes in working with children, particularly those who are autistic or minimally verbal. She integrates strength-based therapy, gestalt language processing strategies, and family coaching to create engaging, individualized sessions.She also mentors other clinicians, offers online training, and speaks to groups of SLPs, OTs, and BCBAs on how to shift away from compliance-based therapy.As a mom of two young children, Andrea treasures the flexibility her private practice provides. She's now able to take her kids to school, join field trips, and be home for dinner—something her 9–5 never allowed. She even jokes about enjoying luxuries like long lunches or mid-day errands, freedoms that once felt impossible.In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Why she left “safe” jobs to build a business aligned with her valuesWhat it looks like to create a schedule that actually works for her family (Hint: She only sees 2-4 clients per day and earns more money than she was before working far less hours)How she's now mentoring fellow SLPs on using using strength-based strategies with clientsAndrea's story shows how deeply personal experiences can fuel professional transformation. By finding her “why” and honoring her values, she built a practice that not only helps families but also gives her the life she wants for her own family.Want to create a private practice that gives you freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment—just like Andrea has? Learn more about our Start Your Private Practice Program, where Andrea and so many other SLPs and OTs have gotten the tools, systems, and confidence to make the leap. Visit www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com to learn more.Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more.Resources mentioned:Follow Andrea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slplovewithoutwords/https://www.instagram.com/slp_mentor4u/Check out her website: https://slplovewithoutwords.com/Send her an email at:

Send us a textPeaches and Aaron are back swinging at the nonsense. From Special Warfare's assessment model to Air Force Academy cadets racking up predatory loans, this episode rips into leadership fails, lazy commanders who hand out paperwork like candy, and the lost art of spot corrections. We go from stories of LOCs, LORs, and mustache games with Rangers, to watching Army football drop a quarter million dollars just to get smoked by Tarleton State. Oh, and Peaches gets dragged through camp in just a towel because Rangers can't handle beards. Add in college football meltdowns, fantasy league punishments, and some blistering hot takes on what “leadership” actually means—you've got a mix of cringe, comedy, and brutal honesty that only Ones Ready delivers.⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Special Warfare assessment truth bombs 01:15 – Operator Training Summit Nashville & gear talk 03:10 – Booties in the pool: stop training slick 04:45 – AOCs gone wild with paperwork 07:00 – Progressive discipline vs lazy leadership 10:20 – Why real mentorship beats LOR inflation 12:50 – Spot corrections, life problems, and actually helping airmen 17:30 – Setting boundaries and predictable leadership 23:10 – Smoke sessions, “don't tell dad,” and better discipline tools 25:30 – Peaches' LOC story that turned his career around 29:30 – Pushing boundaries vs working the system 33:00 – Rangers, beards, and the towel walk of shame 36:00 – Mustache game rules and how to win (or lose) 40:00 – Always rebuttal your paperwork (and call ADC, not your buddy) 41:30 – The insane $416K Academy disenrollment bill 47:00 – The infamous Manitou Incline & OTS candidate pain fest 54:00 – Army football pays $250K to lose to Tarleton State 56:10 – Air Force uniforms: actually fire this year 01:02:00 – Bama gets stomped, SEC fan tears taste delicious 01:03:50 – Peaches unveils the Fantasy Loser Belt 01:04:55 – Wrap up & call-to-actions

In this episode of the OT Yourself to Freedom Podcast, business mindset and lifestyle coach Beki Eakins is joined by Rachel Elliott, an Australian occupational therapist with more than 20 years of experience, primarily in paediatrics. Rachel shares her professional journey — from working in public health to building a group private practice, and ultimately creating her current business, Nurturing Connections OT. Her work now focuses on supervision, mentoring and coaching for other OTs, supporting them to align their practice with their values and step confidently into leadership roles. Together, Beki and Rachel discuss the realities faced by occupational therapists, including the challenges of bureaucracy, the toll of misaligned values, and the confidence gaps many OTs experience from their earliest training placements. They also highlight how OTs can invest in themselves - personally and professionally - to build authentic, sustainable businesses and careers. You'll also hear about Rachel's Aligned Leader Programme, designed to help OTs and allied health professionals develop their leadership identity, strengthen boundaries, and grow in confidence. If you're an OT who is ready to design a freedom-based business, attract the right clients, and lead in a way that feels true to you, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insight. Connect with Beki Are you ready to leave the whinger mindset behind and embrace your inner go-getter? Beki helps OTs worldwide design, launch, and scale their online busi Free Resource: Download Beki's free overnight mindset meditation for free to help you build confidence, overcome money mindset challenges, and develop self-belief. Join OT Yourself To Freedom Membership: Discover the only membership designed specifically for OTs to create freedom-based businesses by leveraging the skills you already have. Learn to design and sell offers, market effectively, and align your work with your purpose. nesses. Learn how to tap into your purpose and create an offer that sells with ease.. Follow Beki: Website: www.bekieakins.com Instagram: OT Yourself to Freedom Facebook Group: OT Freedom Community LinkedIn: Beki Eakins Book an Inspiration Call: Click here About Rachel Elliott Rachel Elliott is dedicated to uplifting occupational therapists so they can flourish in both career and business, while continuing to touch the lives of clients every day. With over two decades of experience across paediatric practice, paediatric mental health, group supervision, and mentoring, Rachel has seen first-hand the difference that reflective support and genuine connection can make. Through Nurturing Connections OT, she helps OTs and allied health professionals step into their leadership identity, build confidence, and align their professional journey with their personal values. Rachel's approach is rooted in authenticity and encouragement: “Plant your seeds here. I'll nurture you to grow and thrive.”

Hallie chats with Angelina Loia about vocational initiatives for students with special needs and complex needs and the use of AAC in collaborative platforms.This week on the pod, we're joined by Angelina Loia, MA, CCC-SLP, TSSLD — a NYC-based SLP with 20+ years of experience in District 75!

What if starting private practice this fall could change your career — without quitting your job?This episode is all about why fall is the perfect time to start seeing private clients. Many clinicians have been thinking about private practice for months or even years, but something keeps holding them back: timing, confidence, or clarity.In today's podcast, I'm sharing 5 reasons why fall is the absolute best time to start building your private practice, even if you're still working your regular job — and I can tell you this: starting small now can create massive momentum by spring.In Today's Episode, We Discuss: Why fall is a strategic season to launch your practiceHow parents and teachers are actively seeking supportWays to start small without quitting your jobHow to build an exit strategy on your termsHere's what I want you to remember: you don't have to wait for “perfect timing” or “someday.” Every month you hesitate is a month you could have been building income, confidence, and freedom. Starting small this fall can create momentum that lasts all year.Want to take the first step toward your private practice this fall? The Start Your Private Practice Program is designed to help you get started on a solid legal foundation, with marketing systems in place, and the ability to bill via private pay, insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. Over 3,500 SLPs and OTs have started their private practices with our support. To learn more, please visit www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com.Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Where We Can Connect: Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/Mentioned in this episode:The See Private Clients Challenge starts September 15th!Sign Up Today --> SeePrivateClients.com

School-based OTs is one of occupational therapy's most distinct practice areas. The style of practice and the systems you work within, all take a mindset shift. Whether you just landed your first school OT job or are a seasoned professional looking to refine how you manage your days, this course will walk you through essential day to day considerations. You'll leave more confident about organizing your time, and delivering high-quality care to your students. Joining us will be returning guest, Bryden Giving. Bryden successfully survived  the shift from outpatient OT to school based practice, several years ago and we have so much to learn from him. He is also the editor of the forthcoming book Neurodiversity-Affirming Occupational Therapy. Support the show

What does success really mean for occupational therapists? Is it the size of your clinic, the number of staff you employ, or the impact you have on families? In this episode of OT Yourself to Freedom, Beki speaks with Alyce Svensk, an experienced paediatric OT and business mentor, about the courage it takes to close a thriving practice and redefine what freedom looks like as an OT entrepreneur. From 2017 to 2024, Alyce built and led Sensational Start Occupational Therapy in Australia, growing it into three busy clinics with over 50 staff. Yet despite the growth, she faced the reality many OT business owners never prepare for: recruitment struggles, shifting NDIS demands, rising overheads, and the toll on her health and family. Rather than go down with the ship, Alyce chose to close her practice with integrity and pivot towards mentoring, supervision, and training through The OT Coach. This conversation is packed with insights for occupational therapists at every stage of their career, from new graduates considering private practice, to experienced OTs leading large teams, to those who feel trapped in a model that no longer works for them. In this episode you will learn: The hidden costs of running an OT private practice and how to recognise red flags early Why closing a clinic is not failure, but a strategic decision rooted in values and wellbeing How to transition from direct client work to supervision, mentoring, and scalable services The mindset shifts OTs need to move from survival to freedom What redefining success beyond the clinic can look like for your career and life If you are an occupational therapist, OT supervisor, paediatric OT, or allied health entrepreneur, this episode will help you reflect, recalibrate, and take practical steps towards building a business that truly serves you. Connect with Beki Are you ready to leave the whinger mindset behind and embrace your inner go-getter? Beki helps OTs worldwide design, launch, and scale their online busi Free Resource: Download Beki's free overnight mindset meditation for free to help you build confidence, overcome money mindset challenges, and develop self-belief. Join OT Yourself To Freedom Membership: Discover the only membership designed specifically for OTs to create freedom-based businesses by leveraging the skills you already have. Learn to design and sell offers, market effectively, and align your work with your purpose. nesses. Learn how to tap into your purpose and create an offer that sells with ease.. Follow Beki: Website: www.bekieakins.com Instagram: OT Yourself to Freedom Facebook Group: OT Freedom Community LinkedIn: Beki Eakins Book an Inspiration Call: Click here Meet the Guest: Alyce Svensk Alyce Svensk is an experienced paediatric occupational therapist and the founder of The OT Coach Australia. From 2017 to 2024, she built and led Sensational Start Occupational Therapy, a thriving NDIS paediatric practice that grew to three clinics and a strong, values-aligned team. Since then, Alyce has focused on mentoring and training, supporting over 300 therapists through supervision and coaching, and more than 2,000 through national workshops and programmes. She is also the host of OT Coaching Confidential, a podcast that brings real mentoring conversations with occupational therapists into the open. Alongside this, she co-hosts OT Unplugged, a podcast dedicated to supporting OTs navigating the realities of working in the NDIS.

Miguel is a climbing physical therapist who works closely with the Method youth climbing team in the US and recently worked his first youth nationals! In this episode, we'll learn about the danger of growth plate injuries in youth climbing athletes, we'll get a glimpse into youth ISO, we'll rank 3 of the most dangerous comp moves we've seen so far, and we'll hear about his own journey trying to make the Peruvian national team!Guest links:Miguel's InstagramMiguel's websiteReference links:Thank you Mad Rock for sponsoring this episode! Use code 'notrealclimber' for 10% off your ENTIRE order, even if you're a returning customer! https://madrock.com/Learn more about the podcast at www.thatsnotrealclimbingpodcast.comFollow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thatsnotrealclimbingpodcastJoin the FREE community in Discord! https://discord.gg/QTa668g8zpJoin Patreon for a welcome gift, deleted scenes, and question priority: www.patreon.com/thatsnotrealclimbingpodcastTimestamps of discussion topicsTimestamps of discussion topics0:00 - Intro1:18 - Mad Rock Shoutout!!2:03 - Getting into PT and climbing4:09 - OTs vs PTs and insurance battles7:26 - Working with youth comp climbers9:44 - What ISO is like at youth nationals14:38 - Massage guns? And my bro-science musings16:43 - Injuries in kids vs adults19:37 - The big one: growth plate injuries in kids25:01 - When to rest vs train through an injury27:34 - General recommendations for climbing injuries32:45 - S+C to prevent ankle, shoulder injuries35:26 - Ranking 3 dangerous comp moves42:27 - When NOT to tape47:28 - What injuries do vs don't require time off the wall52:53 - Chronic injuries? Maybe you're climbing wrong...59:33 - Training for Peruvian nationals1:06:37 - DISCORD Q: What advice would you give to PT students looking to work with climbers?1:08:46 - DISCORD Q: What are the pillars of a strong climbing warmup?1:12:27 - DISCORD Q: top 2 exercises for injury prevention1:17:29 - Words of wisdom and where to find Miguel

This episode explores how physical and occupational therapists can integrate Parkinson's disease–specific functional training into everyday clinical practice. Host J.J. Mowder-Tinney is joined by Dr. Becky Farley, neuroscientist, physical therapist, and founder of Parkinson Wellness Recovery (PWR!), to discuss the science and art of applying exercise as medicine for people living with Parkinson's disease. Together, they break down the core motor control building blocks—such as antigravity extension, weight shifting, axial mobility, and transitions—and demonstrate how these fundamentals can be retrained and progressed to improve real-world function. Listeners will learn practical strategies to make exercise goal-directed, challenging, and fun, while also addressing cognitive and emotional barriers that often limit mobility. Through case examples and clinical pearls, this conversation highlights how to design interventions that feel more like sport than therapy, empowering patients to move with greater ease and confidence. Ideal for PTs and OTs working in rehabilitation or community-based settings, this episode offers actionable insights you can bring directly to your practiceLearning ObjectivesAnalyze the fundamental motor control building blocks that support functional mobility training as a foundational intervention for people with Parkinson's disease (PwPD)Apply evidence-informed strategies to target key motor control fundamentals when designing PD-specific functional mobility trainingSolve patient case scenarios to develop individualized plans of care that integrate PD-specific functional mobility training across rehabilitation and community settingsTimestamps(00:01:09) Introduction to guest(00:04:20) The importance of functional mobility training(00:06:38) Understanding Parkinson's symptoms and their impact(00:10:25) Core fundamentals of movement in therapy(00:14:50) Recapping fundamental building blocks of movement(00:25:20) Common impairments in Parkinson's beyond rigidity and bradykinesia(00:28:55) Research insights on essential ingredients for rehabilitation(00:32:40) Defining FUN-ctional exercise(00:36:04) Practical examples of motor-cognitive challenges(00:41:43) Translating research into day-to-day clinical practice(00:43:07) Creative case example: turning and freezing of gait(00:49:22) Engaging care partners for home and community carryover(00:51:14) Three actionable clinical takeaways(00:54:30) Superpower question and closing thoughtsNeuro Navigators is brought to you by Medbridge. If you'd like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you'll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Neuro Naviagators, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/neuro-navigators⁠⁠⁠⁠If you'd like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/⁠⁠⁠⁠IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/

On this week's news and discussion episode, OTS talks Star Wars: Starfighter as it begins shooting, as well as their thoughts on combing Matt Reeves' Batman and James Gunn's Superman into one universeKyle Bridger linkshttps://linktr.ee/KyleBridger?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=80918ffe-a20d-4821-bdf8-25e5839a7020Theo linkshttps://x.com/OTSBebop?t=feAbVdqOjDtuk6mGKt6t6g&s=09WNRN linkshttps://linktr.ee/WrestlingNerds?fbclid=PAY2xjawH6mKZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABpssIUm6DaBrF-SIQPd14hvBdlqrwOGKf-Mdv5EEFC4mD2vAXo75TqwKLrA_aem_PlCLVuN-1ZnivYpiMcudPgMerch links!OTSProject.comhttps://wnrn.printify.me/

Welcome to the 100th episode of OT Yourself to Freedom. One hundred conversations about freedom. One hundred lessons in business, alignment, and energy. One hundred reminders that OTs are not meant to be boxed in, burnt out, or stuck in systems that do not give back. In this special milestone episode, Beki reflects on the journey from OT burnout to building a thriving online business, coaching hundreds of occupational therapists and health professionals to create freedom on their own terms. This is not just a look back. It is a manifesto for the next chapter of the OT freedom movement. Whether you are an OT in private practice, an entrepreneur at the start of your journey, or a therapist dreaming of leaving the 9–5 grind, this episode is packed with insights, client success stories, and lessons that will inspire you to claim your version of freedom. What You Will Learn in Episode 100 - The story behind how Beki built a successful coaching business working just 12 hours a week - How OTs are doubling their income, leaving traditional jobs, and creating online businesses that fit their lifestyle - Why alignment and energy are the real keys to business growth (and why burnout is outdated) - Client success stories including first sales, 10k, 15k and even 35k cash months - The team behind the business and how their expertise supports client transformation - The biggest lessons from four years of coaching OTs into freedom - The vision for the next 100 episodes and the future of the OT Yourself to Freedom movement Why This Episode Matters If you have ever felt stuck, overworked, or drained by the OT profession, this episode will remind you that there is another way. You will hear real stories of occupational therapists who have turned their skills into thriving businesses without sacrificing their wellbeing, their family time, or their freedom. This is about more than money. It is about identity, purpose, and building work that gives you energy instead of taking it away. Connect with Beki Are you ready to leave the whinger mindset behind and embrace your inner go-getter? Beki helps OTs worldwide design, launch, and scale their online busi Free Resource: Download Beki's free overnight mindset meditation for free to help you build confidence, overcome money mindset challenges, and develop self-belief. Join OT Yourself To Freedom Membership: Discover the only membership designed specifically for OTs to create freedom-based businesses by leveraging the skills you already have. Learn to design and sell offers, market effectively, and align your work with your purpose. nesses. Learn how to tap into your purpose and create an offer that sells with ease.. Follow Beki: Website: www.bekieakins.com Instagram: OT Yourself to Freedom Facebook Group: OT Freedom Community LinkedIn: Beki Eakins Book an Inspiration Call: Click here About the Podcast OT Yourself To Freedom Podcast helps occupational therapists create a life and business they love. Host Beki Eakins shares practical tips, strategies, and real-world stories to inspire your journey to freedom Love this episode? Subscribe to OT Yourself to Freedom and leave a review! Your feedback helps more OTs break free from burnout and build a business they love.

“My limiting belief told me I was limited in the outpatient world. But the truth is, I was already several steps ahead of most people, and that's enough.” - Dr. Amanda ThompsonBurnout is everywhere in healthcare right now. Productivity standards are climbing, providers are stretched to their limits, and rural areas in particular are left patching together care with minimal resources. For many practitioners, the dream of doing integrative, patient-centered work is in their grasp, but imposter syndrome keeps them small. This is your call to action because your help is desperately needed.Physical therapists, OTs, dietitians, nurses, and other allied health professionals are uniquely positioned to transform care in rural and underserved areas. By stepping outside the narrow definitions of rehab and embracing coaching, nutrition, nervous system regulation, and lifestyle medicine, we can become the cornerstones of our clients' health teams. When we lead with active listening and root-cause thinking, we're not just treating symptoms, we're empowering whole people.Today, I'm joined by Dr. Amanda Thompson, a physical therapist and women's health coach who went from rural hospital burnout to founding Rooted Physical Therapy, her thriving ortho-pelvic PT clinic in North Texas. Along her journey, Amanda has overcome her limiting beliefs to build a functional and integrative practice in a rural setting.In this conversation, Amanda and I discuss how her own experiences with fertility struggles, perimenopause, and parenting shaped her clinical approach, how rural practitioners can leverage their “jack of all trades” skills to create lasting impact, the role of active listening in patient care, why pelvic health can't be siloed from nutrition or mental health, how to reframe imposter syndrome into confidence, and more.If you feel held back by burnout or the fear that you don't know enough, Amanda's story is an inspiring blueprint of how to break through. Enjoy the episode, and let's innovate and integrate together!---Learn more or watch the video version of this conversation at https://integrativewomenshealthinstitute.com/overcoming-impostor-syndrome-to-founding-a-highly-successful-rural-womens-practice-with-dr-amanda-thompson-pt-whc/.Connect with me and access our entire platform at IntegrativeWomensHealthInstitute.com (https://integrativewomenshealthinstitute.com/). Find and follow us @integrativewomenshealth on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@integrativewomenshealth) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/integrativewomenshealth/).

Send us a textAb Gietelink spreekt met Harry Berndsen, een ervaren sociaal pedagoog en organisatieadviseur, over de diepe crisis in de jeugdzorg.Er is scherpe kritiek op de vele Onder Toezichtstellingen en Uithuisplaatsingen. Welke rol speelt de Raad voor de Kinderbescherming, Veilig Thuis, Jeugdzorg en ondersteunende overheden ? Wat gaat er allemaal fout en welke oplossingen zijn er?Harry Berndsen is als onafhankelijk sociaal-pedagoog al decennia werkzaam in de jeugdzorg. Hij schreef het ‘Manifest voor een duurzame jeugdzorg'. We gaan bij hem in Friesland op bezoek en luisteren naar zijn kritiek.  Support the showWaardeer je deze video('s)? Like deze video, abonneer je op ons kanaal en steun de onafhankelijke journalistiek van blckbx met een donatieWil je op de hoogte blijven?Telegram - https://t.me/blckbxtvTwitter - / blckbxnews Facebook - / blckbx.tv Instagram - ...

Send us a textAnother week, another dose of hard truth. Trent and Peaches break down the brutal, hilarious, and very real reasons most people won't survive Air Force Special Warfare training. From weak genetics and overprotective parents to the myth of “losing your freedoms,” the crew pulls zero punches while torching excuses. We talk about the lies you tell yourself, the stress you can't handle, and why quitting always feels good for about five minutes—until it doesn't. Plus, behind-the-scenes OTS updates, fan mail shoutouts, and a cameo from the world's worst podcast dog. If you think you're ready, listen up—because the cadre aren't the only ones who will chew you up and spit you out. ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Ones Ready chaos 02:15 – Nashville OTS details 04:50 – Pool training breakdown: buddy breathing without harassment 07:30 – Discount gear, hydration hacks, and Peaches taking all the credit 08:40 – Fan mail, MQ-9 shoutouts, and a Marine trying to cross over 10:40 – Quarter-life crises and joining at 29 13:00 – The “comfortable civilian life” excuse 15:50 – Parents who don't get it (and why they're wrong) 19:20 – Freedom myths, salty vets, and media hype 28:20 – Podcast dog cameo: Ace the stubborn Dachshund 30:10 – Weak genetics and the mental game 33:40 – Poolside nerves, guppy breathing, and stress inoculation 38:00 – Mean instructors, playing roles, and bus driver witnesses 45:00 – The brutal truth about quitting (and why regret hits fast) 49:00 – Cross-training waiver killed: why the Air Force is shooting itself in the foot 52:30 – Step-by-step: eating the elephant of the pipeline 57:00 – Stress inoculation, parachute failures, and raw dog podcasting 01:01:00 – What the successful ones all have in common

Join Jayson Davies as he sits down with occupational therapists and co-founders of B3 Coffee, Jacqueline and Greg Boheler, to explore their unique, neurodiversity-affirming non-profit. They share how they've built a multi-faceted organization that includes a transitional employment model and a robust community program to support young adults with disabilities beyond high school. This episode provides invaluable insight into how school-based OTs can support transition-age youth by focusing on foundational skills and connecting families with crucial adult services. You will also get a look at B3 Coffee's exciting plans to launch a replicable "clubhouse" model for the IDD community. Listen now to be inspired to facilitate meaningful change for your students and your community!Listen now to learn the following objectives:Learners will identify why a "cliff" occurs and recognize the urgency of addressing it by connecting students and families with crucial adult resources and advocating for a focus on lifelong skills.Listeners will understand the significant gap in services and support that many young adults with disabilities experience after graduating high school.Listeners will grasp the occupational therapist's vital role in helping students develop a comprehensive, occupation-based transition portfolio.  Kick off the 2025-26 school year at the Back to School Conference!Learn why so many OTPs dub the Back to School Conference their FAVORITE OT conference. Join 600+ school-based OT practitioners in accessing knowledge, resources, and support to start the school year strong. CLICK HERE to save $50 and secure your spot with code PODCAST25Thanks for tuning in! Thanks for tuning into the OT Schoolhouse Podcast brought to you by the OT Schoolhouse Collaborative Community for school-based OTPs. In OTS Collab, we use community-powered professional development to learn together and implement strategies together. Don't forget to subscribe to the show and check out the show notes for every episode at OTSchoolhouse.comSee you in the next episode!

What if the very thing you think will burn you out… is actually the thing that saves your career?Burnout is everywhere in our field. And here's the hard truth: burnout is the single greatest threat to you staying in this profession — the very profession you spent years of your life and tens of thousands of dollars in grad school to join.That's why today's episode is such an important one. We're talking about how private clients aren't the cause of burnout — they're actually the path out of it.So many SLPs and OTs believe that adding private clients would just stretch them thinner. But here's the truth: it's not the therapy that's exhausting you — it's the system. Overloaded caseloads, endless paperwork, lack of flexibility, and feeling undervalued are what's draining you.Instead of running on empty, you finally get to create a career that fuels you, both personally and professionally.Inside the Start Your Private Practice Program, I've seen this transformation over and over again. So many students came in ready to leave the field altogether, but private practice reignited their passion. They're working fewer hours, earning more, serving clients they love and most importantly, loving their careers again.In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Why burnout is the #1 threat to your careerThe real cause of burnoutHow private practice restores control, balance, and fulfillmentBest time to take your first step into private practiceHere's what I want you to remember: you didn't come this far, invest this much, and work this hard just to burn out and walk away. Private practice can be your way back to freedom, fulfillment, and loving your career again.Want to take back control of your career and finally escape burnout? The Start Your Private Practice Program is where I'll help you set up your first private clients so you can work less, earn more, and love being a clinician again. To learn more, please visit www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com.Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Where We Can Connect: Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if starting your own private practice meant more time with your kids, a healthier work-life balance, and the freedom to create a career that truly fits your values? That's exactly what today's guest, Erin West, set out to do and her journey is going to inspire you.Today I'm introducing you to Erin West, a speech-language pathologist and the owner of Wildflowers Pediatric Therapy in Bradenton, Florida. Erin has been in the field for over 15 years, specializing in pediatrics, feeding, AAC, and neurodiversity-affirming care.She joined the Start Your Private Practice Program and has since built a thriving practice that allows her to be present for her two children while also serving her community in a way that aligns with her values.Although Erin loved her hospital job and the colleagues she worked with, she found herself increasingly drained by the demands of the environment. As a highly sensitive person and single mom, she needed more balance and flexibility to pour into both her clients and her kids.That's when she decided to take the leap into private practice. With the support of her son and the Start Your Private Practice program, Erin transitioned from full-time employment into running her own business. Now, she sets her own schedule, collaborates with other professionals in her community, and enjoys more time with her family.Outside of her practice, she is a mom of two, enjoys collaborating with other therapists in her community, and is even pursuing certification to teach Music Together® classes as another way to support families through connection and creativity. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Taking the leap without a financial safety netBuilding a niche around feeding, autism, and sensory needsFinding unexpected community support and collaborationAnd how her 13-year-old son literally helped her run the numbers to get startedErin's story shows that you don't have to hate your job to know it's time for a change. Sometimes it's about recognizing misalignment, valuing yourself, and choosing to build something that better supports both your family and your clients. Her journey is proof that with the right mindset and support, you can create a private practice that's fulfilling, flexible, and financially sustainable.Want to build a private practice that gives you freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment—just like Erin has? Learn more about our Start Your Private Practice Program, where Erin and so many other SLPs and OTs have gotten the tools, systems, and confidence to make the leap. Visit www.GrowYourPrivatePractice.com to learn more.Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Erin on Instagram: www.instagram.com/wildflowers_pediatric_therapy/Check out her website: https://www.wildflowerspediatrictherapy.com/Learn more about growing your practice: www.GrowYourPrivatePractice.com Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast:

Burnout is hitting SLPs earlier and harder, especially as caseloads and productivity rise. Dr. Jeanette Benigas, SLP, is joined by Fix SLP's Mikayla Treynor, MA/SLP, to chat about what burnout really is (per WHO), how high caseloads and rising productivity targets fuel it, and how to tell burnout from simple under‑stimulation. They share practical strategies you can use now: set enforceable boundaries, stop unpaid paperwork, try micro‑breaks, prioritize real rest, use therapy as a tool, track wins, choose CEUs that actually energize you, and connect with peers. They also zoom out to system‑level solutions such as workload models, employer education, and advocacy that make your day‑to‑day job better. If you're a school or medical SLP feeling stretched thin, this episode gives you tools, language, and a plan to protect your energy and stay in the field you love.

What if your child's behavior isn't defiance… but a response to how they feel in their body?In this powerful conversation, I'm joined by two occupational therapists turned parent coaches who are helping families understand the real reason kids (and parents!) melt down, shut down, or get overwhelmed. It's all about sensory processing—and no, it's not just the five senses we weretaught in school.We explore:*What sensory processing is (in a nutshell)*Why there are actually 8 senses, not 5—and how they shape ourbehavior*The concept of becoming a “Sensory Smart Family”*How understanding sensory profiles can transform reactivity into regulationand connection*Why these OTs made the shift from traditional therapy to parent coaching*The power of seeing behavior as communication—and how sensory understanding offers a new lens for deepened empathyIf you've ever felt confused, frustrated, or unsure how to respond to your child's behavior, this episode offers a compassionate, science-backed perspective to help you shift from correction to connection.

OT reimbursement from traditional models is on the decline, while the need for OT services on the risesThus, entering into private practice is an important avenue for OTs to consider. But, with this comes all kinds of legal considerations. In the first part of this two part series, we talked about choosing a legal entity, working with your full scope of practice as laid out by your licensure laws, and navigating Medicare covered services. Now in part two, we are getting into more considerations from navigating anti-trust, Stark Law, anti-kickback, to monopolization laws. This is truly information that all OTs need to be savvy about (whether or not you run a business.) We'll welcome back two returning podcast guests, Monika Lukasiewicz, OTR/L (who is looking to start her practice) and Alyson Stover, MOT, JD, OTR/L, BCP (a pediatric occupational therapist/private practice owner, who also has a degree in health law.) This is live webinar! So we answer listener questions at the end! Please note, we cannot give legal advice during this time—but, we do want to help equip you to understand these basic legal considerations- so you can run (or at least be part of) a sound, profitable business. Support the show

Here is an audio preview of one of the new shows coming out on our Strange Midnight AV YouTube channel. In all of our stress disappearing we basically created 4 different 80s Found Footage Horror ASMR(-ish) TV series. First, there's Lotho's Library of Classic Horrors, an '80s goth public access show where Lotho the Librarian whispers eerie tales pulled straight from classic masters of horror. Then we have Vision Quest Video Club, a series of unsettling guided meditations that feel like they've been beamed in from a dream you don't quite remember. There's also the OTS Student Assessment Tapes, inspired by those hearing and vision tests from school. The ones that may (or may not) have been a CIA experiment. And finally, Whispering Winnie, where a painting of a little girl springs to life to tell you twisted, uncanny versions of your favorite fairy tales. We will be putting out one episode on YouTube a week, the shows alternate, one week Vision Quest, next week Winnie, OTS, and Lotho and so on. But the first drop will be one of each, coming out Thursday August 14th at 6pm. As we mentioned in the intro, we don't wanna overload your feed, just wanted to share a few of them with you guys. @StrangeMidnightAV on YouTube, TikTok & IG. ____________________________ Tonight belongs to Lotho.

Send us a textForget the Instagram highlight reels—Peaches and Aaron are dropping the unfiltered, step-by-step hacks to survive the Air Force Special Warfare pipeline without becoming another quit statistic. This isn't “drink more water” fluff; it's the down-and-dirty, why-your-shins-are-dying, how-to-not-faceplant-on-the-IFT kind of episode. From running until you hate life, to fueling like a machine, to training until your friends think you've joined a cult, they break down exactly how to build durability, crush run times, and show up already dangerous. Plus, a SIG P320 scandal, why OTS Nashville is about to sell out, and how to tell if you're lying to yourself about being “ready.”

In this essential episode of Equine Assisted World, Rupert Isaacson sits down with Dr. Temple Grandin, one of the world's most influential voices on autism, sensory processing, and practical approaches to learning and healing. Together, they explore how therapeutic riding centers can do more than just offer horse time—they can create whole environments of sensory safety, meaningful skill-building, and community resilience.Dr. Grandin shares her personal experiences growing up autistic, her early fears and breakthroughs, and the real-life tools that helped her thrive—tools that every equine program can apply. From using turn-taking games to stimulate speech to setting up repair shops and greeter stations to build confidence and career readiness, this episode is a blueprint for any equine-assisted center aiming to have deeper impact. If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome ✨ What You'll Learn in This Episode:The Power of Observation & Following the Child (Starts at 01:00)How Rupert adapted Temple's three-step approach to help his nonverbal sonWhy nature and movement are essential for sensory integrationEquine Interaction & Sensory Patterns (Starts at 04:00)The three ways autistic kids respond to animalsWhat PET scans and OTs show about rhythm, balance, and the cerebellumWhy nature and gardens still matter even without horsesEarly Intervention with Church Play & Library Play (Starts at 07:00)Why many children can't afford to be on waitlistsTurn-taking games and imitation as entry pointsHow to tap into local retirees to fill gaps in early interventionTheory of Mind & Naturalistic Learning (Starts at 08:30)Flapping, spinning coins, and making daisy chains as foundational social engagementHow structured tasks lead to intellectual developmentHigh Expectations with Support (Starts at 14:00)Accommodating without overprotecting: ferry horns and dessert rulesWhy selling candy and hosting parties mattered for both Temple and Bill GatesPractical Skills, Tools & Trades (Starts at 20:00)From coat hangers to glue guns: the neuroscience of hands-on learningHow fixing things builds brains and self-worthRebuilding the Workshop Culture (Starts at 28:00)Why shop class should return to therapeutic barnsVisual thinkers vs. math thinkers: all kinds of brains need tactile trainingUsing retired mechanics, carpenters, and engineers as mentorsStructured Responsibility Around the Barn (Starts at 34:00)Real tasks: mucking, grooming, feeding, building stallsHow responsibility leads to confidence and safety awarenessSocial Skills Training through Greeting & Selling (Starts at 43:00)Simulating cookie sales, greeter roles, and party host behaviorControlled exposure to rejection and resilience buildingJob Skills, Routine & Community Integration (Starts at 51:00)Creating modern equivalents of paper routes with local volunteersWhy non-family bosses matter for skill-buildingTap into senior centers to address budget shortfallsThe Cost of Screen Time & the Value of Movement (Starts at 54:00)How too much tech stunts developmentWhat real-world vestibular tasks do for brain growthCognitive, Motor & Emotional Growth Through Challenge (Starts at 59:00)The science behind tool use, play, and heavy workBalancing boards, swings, and walking rails in arenas and homesMedication, Anxiety & Exercise (Starts at 67:00)Temple's 40-year experience with antidepressantsWhy burst exercise helps more than walkingHow low-dose meds plus movement can regulate fear systems

Are you worried that starting a private practice will be too much work and take you away from your family life? Today's guest is proof that you can build a career on your own terms and make it work for you!Joining me is Ricki Klein, someone I've actually known for a while! Ricki is an SLP, mom, and owner of Kid Speak Easy, her private practice in Sudbury, Massachusetts. Ricki left the workplace during the pandemic as her young family experienced a lot of change. After constantly giving out free advice at the park, Ricki realized she missed working and wanted to figure out a way to dip her toe back into clinical work. In this episode, Ricki shares how she created a private practice that is professionally fulfilling, fits her family's needs and schedule, and gives her the balance that so many family-oriented SLPs are searching for.Ricki Klein is licensed in the state of Massachusetts and holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She graduated from Hamilton College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, then went on to Emerson College, where she obtained her Masters of Science in Communication Disorders. Ricki supports children of all ages, with a focus on preschool and school-age children, who have a range of speech and language difficulties. Ricki enjoys working closely with families and teachers in a collaborative manner to develop treatment plans that allow children to make progress across all contexts. Ricki lives in Sudbury, MA, with her husband and two young children. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Ricki's hesitancy toward the logistics of starting a private practice How her first paying client gave her enough fulfillment to go all in Learning to get over fear and network organically How Ricki gives back to her community through her businessWhy you shouldn't worry if your area is oversaturated with providersEven though Ricki's journey started differently than what she had planned, she was able to grow her practice intentionally while maintaining balance at home. If Ricki's story inspired you and you're thinking, “I want to do that…” — you can. We help SLPs and OTs get set up, start seeing clients, and build sustainable businesses through our Start Your Private Practice Program. If you're ready to take the next step, head over to www.IndependentClinician.com to learn how we can support you.Resources Mentioned: Check out Ricki's practice: https://www.kidspeakeasy.com/ Find support to start your private practice: http://www.IndependentClinician.comWhere We Can Connect: Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/slp.private.practice.beginners/

Get unlimited CE credits for this podcast and any learning experience here: SapienCE Reflecting Learning | Unleash Your Inner SageIn this podcast episode, we introduce Amanda Luper, an experienced occupational therapist with over 13 years in acute care ICU. Amanda shares her journey, starting from her field placement at Vanderbilt, which shaped her career path, to her current focus on early mobility and cognitive care in the ICU. She discusses the innovative approaches she has championed, including mobilizing patients early, even building protocols for cognitive assessments. Amanda also emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in the ICU and highlights the critical role OTs play in patient care. The episode touches on her experiences advocating for better OT training and competency in ICUs and her work in post-ICU support groups. Through detailed examples and heartfelt patient stories, Amanda illustrates the significant impact occupational therapists can have on patient recovery and outcomes.www.DaytonICUConsulting.com

In this practical episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with Dr. Danika Pfeiffer—preschool SLP, assistant professor, and early literacy researcher—about how we can support early writing in young kids, especially those with developmental language disorder (DLD). From understanding why name writing is more about memory than letters, to how SLPs can build in writing practice without adding to their workload, Danika breaks it all down. You'll hear simple ideas, ways to team up with teachers and OTs, and why even small moments of print awareness can go a long way. If you've ever wondered if writing is in your scope, this convo will leave you feeling inspired and ready to dive in—one crayon at a time.Bullet Points to Discuss: Why early writing starts earlier than you think—even in preschoolThe difference between name writing and letter writingHow writing challenges show up in kids with developmental language disorder (DLD)Simple ways to embed writing practice into your existing sessionsWhat SLPs can look for during evaluations—no fancy tools neededBuilding print awareness without overhauling your therapyPartnering with teachers and OTs around early writing supportThe SLP's role in preventing future writing difficultiesMaking early writing doable (and meaningful) for busy SLPsHere's what we learned: Name writing is visual recall—not true letter-sound knowledge.Letter writing is harder and needs explicit, repeated support.Kids with DLD follow typical writing development but at a slower pace.Easy, everyday strategies (like sign-in sheets or labeled items) can build writing skills.Print awareness fits naturally into speech sessions—no overhaul needed.Informal assessments (paper + crayon!) are enough to track early writing.Collaborate with teachers and OTs to target both language and motor skills.Early writing support helps prevent bigger literacy challenges laterLearn more about Dr. Danika Pfeiffer: Website: www.danikapfeiffer.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danikapfeiffer.slp/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/danika-pfeiffer Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/danikapfeiffer.bsky.social Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/444VIuWOxBzZ8fI2hqGyFj Learn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  

Send us a textThe Ones Ready crew is back with a blistering Daily Drop that reads like a classified briefing laced with caffeine and outrage. Jared goes scorched-earth on the U.S. finally banning Chinese farmland buys (spoiler: it's 2025 and somehow this wasn't already illegal). Meanwhile, the Army wants to quadruple Patriot missiles—because what's deterrence without volume? The Air Force still can't decide if the F-15EX should have a roommate. Space Force gets a budget bump, but bureaucratic gatekeepers still cling to outdated classification nonsense like it's a Cold War cosplay. And don't worry, the KC-46 is still a flying contradiction—does it even have SATCOM?Oh, and if you're still here: Nashville. October. OTS. Let's go.