In this episode, I am joined by Stephanie Lo-Presti, an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist,as she introduces a comprehensive and innovative Speech and Language Protocol and Assessment Tool. Designed to merge developmental psychology with speech-language pathology, this tool is particularly powerful for evaluating and treating children with diverse needs, including those who are clinically untestable. Stephanie shares her extensive background and the motivation behind creating a dynamic asse...
Apr 09, 2025•42 min
This episode is part of the SLP Business Connect Series, we share our top 10 favorite business books and discuss key takeaways and personal insights that can help entrepreneurs launch or grow their businesses. We also talk about practical tools and resources like profit calculators and name checkers to help entrepreneurs with branding, marketing, finances, and staying motivated despite challenges.Ready to learn more? Visit SLPBusinessConnect.com to sign up to attend live for FREE, or unlock t...
Apr 02, 2025•18 min
This episode is part of the SLP Business Connect series, where we explore 30 different side hustle ideas for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) to utilize their degrees beyond traditional roles. We discuss various categories such as physical and digital products, service-based businesses, startups, and more. We also cover opportunities in creating educational materials, private practice, virtual assistance, consulting, podcasting, and innovative ideas in AI and technology. Through personal anec...
Apr 02, 2025•34 min
This episode is part of the SLP Business Connect Series, where we discuss invaluable tips and personal experiences for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) beginning their journey in private practice. The discussion includes advice on setting boundaries, understanding one’s skill set, and identifying ideal clients to help grow and enjoy the business. It addresses the common misconception about the number of clients needed to match a school salary and underscores the financial benefits found in pr...
Apr 02, 2025•23 min
In this episode, I am joined by Jenny Lai, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and co-host of the 'Not a Tiger Mom Podcast,' as we discuss how to reframe Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with a neurodiversity affirming approach for parents and practitioners. The episode covers defining neurodiversity affirming ABA, key differences from traditional ABA, core principles, and actionable strategies for parents. Jenny shares her experiences as both a BCBA and a special needs parent, offering valuable i...
Mar 19, 2025•33 min
In this episode, I am joined by Jenny Lai, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and co-host of the 'Not a Tiger Mom Podcast,' as we discuss how to reframe Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with a neurodiversity affirming approach for parents and practitioners. The episode covers defining neurodiversity affirming ABA, key differences from traditional ABA, core principles, and actionable strategies for parents. Jenny shares her experiences as both a BCBA and a special needs parent, offering valuable i...
Mar 12, 2025•37 min
In this episode, I am joined by Gabriella Gizzo, a licensed Speech Therapist and author, as she discuss her journey and inspirations behind her children's book 'Sophie's Special Story,' which aims to support SLPs in effectively targeting speech goals within high caseloads. Gabriella delves into the publishing process, the benefits of her book for parents and teachers, and her experience working with children with visual and cognitive impairments. She also highlights the importance of incorporati...
Feb 26, 2025•13 min
In this episode, I am joined by Susan Golubock, an autistic Occupational Therapist and advocate, to explore why autistic communication is often misunderstood wherein she highlights two main reasons: subconscious biases about communication and neurological differences experienced by autistics. Susan shares her insights into interpreting behaviors as communication, provides concrete examples, and offers practical tools for educators to support autistic students. The discussion also covers strategi...
Feb 19, 2025•30 min
In this episode, I am joined by Susan Golubock, an autistic Occupational Therapist and advocate, to explore why autistic communication is often misunderstood wherein she highlights two main reasons: subconscious biases about communication and neurological differences experienced by autistics. Susan shares her insights into interpreting behaviors as communication, provides concrete examples, and offers practical tools for educators to support autistic students. The discussion also covers strategi...
Feb 12, 2025•30 min
In this episode, I am joined by Sharlet Jensen, author of 'Paws for Progress' and owner of Speech Dogs, as she discuss the wide scope of animal-assisted interventions beyond therapy dogs, incorporating various animals like cats, horses, and farm animals. Sharlet shares her journey of integrating therapy dogs into her speech therapy practice, including the benefits, such as rapport building and sensory regulation, and challenges like liability insurance. Sharlet also offers practical insights on ...
Feb 05, 2025•21 min
In this episode, I am joined by Erin Vance, a seasoned speech-language pathologist with 26 years of experience, as she shares invaluable advice for professionals in the field. Erin emphasizes the importance of advocating for clients and oneself, even if it means simply showing up. She discusses the growing challenges within the field, particularly post-COVID, and the impact of social media on communication skills. Erin also shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD and how it has ...
Jan 29, 2025•25 min
In this episode, I am joined by Yehuda Joseph, a Speech-Language Pathologist as he shares his diverse experiences working full-time at the Kiryas Joel School District and part-time at Community Medical and Dental Care in New York. Yehuda discusses his background, including dealing with his stutter as a child, and how this influenced his career choice. He also talks about the unique aspects of working within the Satmar ultra-Orthodox Jewish community, the challenges and joys of being a generalist...
Jan 22, 2025•18 min
In this episode, I am joined by Karla Garcia as she shares her journey from humble beginnings to establishing her own practice, Leonia Speech and Language Services, LLC. Karla discusses her dual experiences with privilege and minority challenges, how she overcame bullying and stuttering, and her advocacy for bilingual and minority families. She highlights the significance of support systems, her specialized approach to Gestalt Language Processing, and offers advice to minorities entering the fie...
Jan 15, 2025•30 min
In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Laura Mansfield, a seasoned SLP and Special Education Administrator, shares insights on managing roles and responsibilities for public school SLPs. She discusses the importance of understanding one's role within the educational system, overcoming burnout, and building positive relationships with teachers and administrators. Dr. Mansfield also offers tips on caseload management, shifting from a medical to an educational model, and finding systems to streamline ...
Jan 08, 2025•27 min
In this episode, I am joined by Philip Long, a member of the 2023 Marquee Who's Who of America class, who overcame significant challenges due to dyslexia. Philip shares his personal journey from struggling with reading and writing to achieving a bachelor's and master's degree despite reading at a fifth-grade level. He emphasizes the importance of support systems, advocacy, and tailored teaching methods. Philip also provides practical tips for parents on supporting children with dyslexia and disc...
Jan 01, 2025•23 min
In this episode, I am joined by Marie Muratalla, a Pre-school Speech Language Pathologist as we discuss the importance of life-work balance, emphasizing the need for self-care and mindful practices in both personal and professional settings. Marie shares practical tips on building a fulfilling life-work balance, incorporating mindfulness in speech therapy sessions, and the significance of gratitude. She also talks about her own strategies, including journaling, affirmations, and being mindful of...
Nov 27, 2024•30 min
In this panel discussion, we hear from expert speakers on trauma-informed care, Polyvagal Theory, executive functioning, and neurodiversity-affirming practices. We dive deeper into these topics, ask questions, and explore real-world strategies to support both neurodiverse and neurotypical children. Gain practical insights on fostering safety, integrating lived experiences, and enhancing interventions.
Nov 21, 2024•1 hr 3 min
In this episode, I am joined by Devyn Heit, a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist, and owner of Little Spark Speech in Arlington, VA. Devyn shares her experiences and insights from working in early intervention and myofunctional therapy, highlighting the importance of early intervention in closing developmental gaps in children. She recounts her personal journey with myofunctional therapy and its benefits, the holistic approach to treatment, strategies to build rapport with clients, and the si...
Nov 13, 2024•20 min
This is a sneak peek episode for the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect, which is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. Register here to be part of Behavior Connect.
Nov 12, 2024•29 min
This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Julia Kharlamenko, M.S. CCC-SLP TSSLD B.E as we discuss the principles of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and their application in speech therapy sessions. Julia shares how observations, listening, and compassionate interactions help move away from compliance-based thera...
Nov 06, 2024•36 min
This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Katelyn Kelps, an experienced SLP passionate about AAC and neurodiversity affirming practices, as we explore multimodal communication strategies in educational settings. Katelyn shares practical approaches for high and low support needs students, including the use of co...
Oct 30, 2024•16 min
This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Claire Mirvis, a first-year Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) working in an educational-medical hybrid setting within a hospital. Claire shares her experiences with medically fragile students ranging from preschool to high school, emphasizing neurodiversity affirming pr...
Oct 23, 2024•18 min
This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Brooke Sheaffer, a Speech Language Pathologist, as we discuss the importance of embracing neurodiversity within school settings. The conversation covers the prevalence of neurodivergence and the necessity for inclusive, affirming educational environments. Practical stra...
Oct 16, 2024•18 min
This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Jacqueline Jebian Garcia, a neurodivergent Speech-Language Pathologist and Socio-Emotional Coach, as we discuss Polyvagal Theory and its importance in understanding safety and danger through the autonomic nervous system's sympathetic and parasympathetic branches. Jacque...
Oct 09, 2024•23 min
This episode is part of the upcoming online event called Behavior Connect. Behavior Connect is all about moving beyond traditional behavior strategies to foster authentic connections with children. In this episode, I am joined by Sophie-Anais Renois, a Speech-Language Pathologist in her clinical fellowship year. Sophie shares her personal experiences with disabilities and Sophie shares her personal experiences with disabilities and offers insights into how colleges and universities can be more i...
Oct 02, 2024•26 min
In this episode, I am joined by Sneha Susan Jacob, an ASHA certified Speech-Language Pathologist with over 20 years of experience and now CEO of Italk Inc. Susan's journey spans from India to the United States, working in diverse settings from schools to skilled nursing facilities. She shares her passion for early intervention and her approach to therapy. Susan's path highlights the importance of cultural adaptation, work-life balance, and the role of families in speech therapy. Visit Speechie S...
Sep 30, 2024•26 min
In this episode, I am joined by Samantha Novick, a Speech-Language Pathologist and owner of Bridge Therapy in South Florida. Samantha shares insights from her career, the importance of community support among professionals, and the role of mentorship. She highlights her achievements, including developing a virtual camp for individuals with disabilities and her involvement with various nonprofit organizations aimed at fostering inclusion and meaningful connections. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn...
Sep 25, 2024•31 min
In this episode, I am joined by Christina Cahill Longo, a Speech-Language Pathologist & Orofacial Myologist. Christina shares her journey from working in an acute medical setting to establishing a private practice in a school environment. She emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset, both for children and their parents, advocating for a focus on emotional as well as academic needs. She also delves into her personal experiences with her children's speech and orthodontic challenges, which...
Sep 23, 2024•34 min
In this episode, I am joined by Melissa Oliva, a Speech-Language Pathologist, as she shares insights into her methods for cultivating effective speech therapy practices. Melissa discusses the importance of individualized and culturally responsive approaches, and strategies for gaining trust from teachers and parents. She highlights practical tips for balancing functional and academic goals, the benefits of effective communication, and maximizing the effectiveness of group sessions. Melissa also ...
Sep 18, 2024•18 min
In this episode, we are joined by Paige O'Dwyer, a Speech-Language Pathologist and the Owner and Director of Communication Options, Inc. Paige discusses the innovative approaches her practice takes in early childhood speech and language intervention, particularly through their Partners in Play program. This program focuses on providing a speech and language-rich, child-centered play environment for three-year-olds with severe communication needs. Paige also shares her experience in balancing wor...
Sep 16, 2024•30 min
