Speechie Side Up - podcast cover

Speechie Side Up

You’re listening to the Speechie Side Up podcast hosted by author, AAC specialist, and matcha tea lover, Venita Litvack! Every week, you get to hear what other SLPs are doing in the field and how they found their passion. This podcast was created to help YOU stop re-inventing the wheel and start loving your job again!
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Episodes

220: The One About Working with Older Speech Students

In this episode, I am joined by Hallie Sherman, a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist and CEO of Speech Time Fun, Inc, as we discuss effective strategies for motivating older speech students. Hallie emphasizes the importance of understanding student resistance and building a compassionate rapport, as well as using student interests and flexible learning styles to drive engagement. She shares her journey from working in public schools to becoming a full-time support resource for SLPs, highlighti...

Sep 11, 202440 min

219: The One About Incorporating Mindfulness and Montessori in Therapy

In this episode, we are joined by Amruta Potdar as we dive into creating successful therapy sessions using principles of mindfulness and Montessori. With nearly 20 years of experience, Amruta shares her holistic approach to therapy and emphasizes the importance of a prepared child, adult, and environment in fostering communication and skill development. Amruta also discusses her bilingual and culturally responsive private practice, which focuses on pediatric speech and feeding therapy. She offer...

Sep 09, 202432 min

218: The One About How Speech-Language Pathologists Shaped an Author's Journey

In this episode, I am joined by Sherry McMillan, author of 'My S's Are Messes.' Sherry discusses her journey from avoiding writing about her speech sound disorders to embracing them in her acclaimed book, 'What the Seal Saw.' Inspired by interactions with readers and Speech-Language Pathologists, she wrote a new book specifically for children with speech differences. Sherry explains how the book uses energetic illustrations and word pictures to describe the experience of having a speech disorder...

Sep 04, 202433 min

217: The One About Pivoting from SLP to Copywriting

In this episode, I am joined by Lauren Hermann, a former medical Speech-Language Pathologist who transitioned into a career as a freelance copywriter. Lauren shares her journey of combining her passion for Speech Language Pathology and writing into a viable career. Facing challenges like moving to a small town and the impact of COVID-19, Lauren turned to copywriting. She describes what copywriting entails, her daily work routine, and how she gained her first clients. Lauren also highlights the s...

Sep 02, 202428 min

AAC Connect Series: 3 Tips to Start Using AAC in Early Intervention

This solo is all about AAC in early intervention. We review 3 tips to start using AAC in EI when you don’t have buy-in or access to high-tech systems. This episode is also a sneak peek into the AAC Connect program. AAC Connect includes a variety of therapy materials, training, and personalized support. You can access ALL of these resources when you sign up here !

Aug 29, 202434 min

216: The One About Using Nonviolent Communication to Handle Workplace Challenges

In this episode, I am joined by Stephanie Michele Sweigart, an expert in mindfulness and compassion-based practices in special education, as we explore on the importance of self-advocacy for clinicians facing high caseloads and workloads. Stepahie, certified as a teacher of mindfulness meditation and a speech-language pathologist, shares her insights from her course 'ShiftMakers: 1.0' and her work with various national organizations. The discussion covers the four-step nonviolent communication f...

Aug 28, 202453 min

215: The One About Support Neurodiversity and Inclusion in Early Intervention

In this episode, I am joined by Jessie Kensey, a Pediatric Speech Language Pathologist and owner of Simply Speech Therapy, as she shares her journey from being a high school English teacher to starting her own private practice. She discusses the motivations behind starting her business, the importance of building rapport with clients, and how her understanding of Gestalt Language Processing impacts her work. Jessie also emphasizes the significance of early intervention, supporting neurodiversity...

Aug 25, 202417 min

AAC Connect Series: 6 Things I Wish I Knew Starting Out with AAC

This solo episode is all about the mistakes I made with AAC in the past. We review 6 things I wish I knew starting out with AAC like determining grid size, programming, moving beyond requesting, teaching literacy, adding gestalts, and giving exploration time. This episode is also a sneak peak into the AAC Connect program. AAC Connect includes a variety of therapy materials, training, and personalized support. You can access ALL of these resources when you register here for AAC Connect....

Aug 21, 202431 min

214: The One About Creating a Niche Private Practice

In this episode, I am joined by Megan Hayes, MS, CCC-SLP, as we explore how working in a private practice setting differs from other professional environments. The discussion focuses on the unique aspects, benefits, and challenges of private practice in comparison to alternative settings. Visit Speechie Side Up to learn more about this episode.

Aug 19, 202423 min

AAC Connect Series: 5 Tips for AAC Trials

In this episode I share five key strategies for conducting effective AAC device trials. This episode emphasizes on the importance of having light or no-tech backups, involving caregivers and school staff in data collection, acquiring AAC apps for iPads, borrowing devices from loan libraries, and initiating funded device trials. It also highlights the importance of community and continuous learning among speech language pathologists. Register here to join the AAC Connect!...

Aug 14, 202419 min

213: The One About Navigating Cultural Differences in Private Practice

In this episode, we are joined by Martha Boiardt, an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist and founder of Miami Speech Therapy as she shares her expertise on bilingual speech therapy, discussing the importance of maintaining heritage languages while navigating language delays. Martha addresses common challenges, including the lack of quality materials in Spanish and misconceptions about bilingualism. She also highlights her collaboration to create Spanish language therapy decks and offers prac...

Aug 12, 202433 min

AAC Connect Series: 3 Common Misconceptions about AAC Readiness

The episode is part of the AAC Connect series and was inspired by a frustrated teacher that reached out to me. She was told her student wasn’t ready for AAC because he did not point, discriminate or attend long enough. I share some ways to address each skill when a client is not exhibiting these skills "yet." This episode is also a sneak peak into the AAC Connect program. AAC Connect includes a variety of therapy materials, training, and personalized support. You can access ALL of these resource...

Aug 10, 202417 min

212: The One About Thinking Outside the Box in Private Practice

In this episode, I am joined by Rachel May, a Speech Language Pathologist with over two decades of experience as we explore the challenges and benefits of pursuing entrepreneurship versus employment. Rachel discusses her journey and the motivation behind starting her own private practice. She is also joined by her colleagues, Sheila and Amber, who bring extensive expertise in Occupational and Physical Therapy respectively. Their collaborative efforts demonstrate the holistic approach needed for ...

Aug 05, 202444 min

211: The One About AAC with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Individuals

In this episode, I am joined by Quinn Kelly as we delve into the intricacies of integrating AAC devices with ASL for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Quinn is a bilingual ASL-Fluent Certified Speech Language Pathologist in New York and New Jersey. Quinn shares insights on the historical use of AAC, its overprescription, and the importance of combining ASL with AAC. She also discusses the cultural sensitivities in recommending AAC and offers practical strategies for SLPs working with ...

Jul 31, 202426 min

210: The One About Virtual Coaching & EI

In this episode, I am joined by Gina Russell, the owner of Tiny Sparks, LLC, as we discuss her private coaching and consulting services designed to support parents and professionals in helping young children reach their full potential. Gina explains the philosophy behind her diagnosis-free approach, aiming to assist families regardless of their current situation or readiness for formal diagnoses. She highlights the key aspects of her services, including virtual coaching, personalized communicati...

Jul 29, 202423 min

209: The One About Promoting AAC and Neurodiversity Awareness

In this episode, I am joined by Kellie Willis, a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in Early Intervention as we discuss the importance of education, relationships, and the use of AAC in empowering families and caregivers. Kellie emphasizes the delicate and intimate nature of early intervention, the necessity of building trust with the family, and the significant role of parent coaching. She also shares her approach to integrating various tools, resources, and collaboration with other profe...

Jul 24, 202420 min

[Podcourse] Part 2: How to Provide Neurodiversity-Informed Therapy for AAC & GLP Learners

In this episode, I am joined by Kaitlin Mulcahey, a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and owner of Competent Communicators, LLC, as we discuss how to provide neurodiversity-informed therapy for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) learners. Caitlin shares her experiences and tips on incorporating neurodiversity-informed approaches into therapeutic practices, using AAC with GLPs, and recommendations for new AAC therapists and parents of AAC us...

Jul 24, 202431 min

[Podcourse] Part 1: How to Provide Neurodiversity-Informed Therapy for AAC & GLP Learners

In this episode, I am joined by Kaitlin Mulcahey, a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and owner of Competent Communicators, LLC, as we discuss how to provide neurodiversity-informed therapy for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) learners. Caitlin shares her experiences and tips on incorporating neurodiversity-informed approaches into therapeutic practices, using AAC with GLPs, and recommendations for new AAC therapists and parents of AAC us...

Jul 17, 202432 min

207: How to Support Communication Skills for Neurodivergent Individuals with Racquet Sports

In this episode, I am joined by Lisa Pugliese-Lacroix, a USPTA and PTR Elite Certified Tennis Professional and a certified Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in autism. Lisa shares her journey of combining her passion for tennis with speech therapy to benefit children and adults with autism through her unique nonprofit organization, Love Serving Autism. The conversation covers the organization's growth, its mission, and the various awards it has received for promoting inclusion in racket s...

Jul 10, 202426 min

From the Vault: The One About Articulation & Literacy With Kelly Farquharson

In this throwback episode, I was joined by Dr. Kelly Farquharson, a Speech-Language Pathologist, Associate Professor, and Director of the Children’s Literacy and Speech Sound (CLaSS) Lab at Florida State University. The mission of the CLaSS lab is to help children with speech and language impairments achieve classroom success.

Jul 03, 202452 min

206: The One About Using Books to Target Multiple Goals

In this episode, I am joined by Sarah Breshears, a Speech-Language Pathologist and founder of Social Moguls. as we discuss the significance of literacy in speech therapy. Sarah shares insights from her career, including her experience introducing reading to young children and the benefits of using books to target multiple speech and language goals. She also provides a walkthrough of her self-published book, 'Short and Sweet Stories,' an interactive tool designed to engage children with speech so...

Jun 26, 202427 min

205: [Literacy Connect ] All In For Literacy: How Unity Among Educators Transforms Learning Sneak Peek

This episode is a sneak peek of Spencer Russell's episode for Literacy Connect. At Literacy Connect, we’re excited to guide you through how structured literacy ​instruction ​can help your students and children thrive. From assessment and treatment to ​understanding dyslexia and exploring the latest technology, we’ve got it all covered. We are ​on a mission to ensure ALL children receive effective literacy support! If you are ready to stop feeling overwhelmed with literacy and know exactly how to...

Jun 18, 202421 min

204: A Crash Course in Literacy Intervention & Assessment

Are you ready to stop feeling overwhelmed with literacy and know exactly how to help ​children learn to read and write? At Literacy Connect, we’re excited to guide you through how structured literacy ​instruction ​can help your students and children thrive. From assessment and treatment to ​understanding dyslexia and exploring the latest technology, we’ve got it all covered. We are ​on a mission to ensure ALL children receive effective literacy support! Register here to be part of this event....

Jun 12, 202420 min

203: The One About Literacy with Britney Morrish

In this episode, I am joined by Britney Morrish, MSc-SLP (C) R. SLP and the owner of the Language and Literacy Clinic of Manitoba, as we delve into the critical importance of literacy. Britney discusses the expansive role of literacy beyond mere reading and writing, emphasizing its impact on cognitive skills and democratic discussions. She explains the principles of structured literacy, differentiates it from other teaching methods, and provides strategies for early literacy development. Britney...

Jun 04, 202437 min

202: The One About Literacy with Brianna Guild

In this episode, I am joined by Brianna Guild, a private practice SLP from Ontario, Canada, as we discuss the integration of literacy tasks into speech therapy sessions, emphasizing the importance of phonological awareness and phonics. Brianna shares her expertise and experience in literacy intervention, especially for children with speech sound delays. She delves into the role of SLPs in literacy, preferred assessment tools, and strategies for incorporating literacy into therapy, including phon...

May 29, 202427 min

From the Vault: Get Ready! How to Diagnose and Assess Dyslexia

In this podcourse, we identified 3 signs of dyslexia and discussed an SLPs role in the diagnosing process. We looked at 3 areas to assess dyslexia and how to effectively identify which 2 assessments to consider for a dyslexia evaluation. This episode is part of a digital conference event called SLP Live. Listening to this episode does not automatically guarantee ASHA CEUs. If you want to earn .1 ASHA CEUs, download the playbook, join the Facebook community, and grab the other courses materials f...

May 23, 20241 hr 4 min

[Podcourse] Part 2: How AAC Consultants Support School SLPs

In this episode, I am joined by Tiffany Pierangelo and Megan Hapeman, as we dive into a comprehensive discussion that focuses on the role AAC consultants play in supporting SLPs within large school districts. Tiffany and Megan, experienced Speech Pathologists and AAC consultants, covered effective strategies for aiding school-based SLPs, highlighting the importance of training, feedback from new SLPs, and the necessity of ongoing support. Register ⁠here⁠ to earn ASHA CEUs and visit Speechie Side...

May 15, 202430 min

[Podcourse] Part 1: How AAC Consultants Support School SLPs

In this episode, I am joined by Tiffany Pierangelo and Megan Hapeman, as we dive into a comprehensive discussion that focuses on the role AAC consultants play in supporting SLPs within large school districts. Tiffany and Megan, experienced Speech Pathologists and AAC consultants, covered effective strategies for aiding school-based SLPs, highlighting the importance of training, feedback from new SLPs, and the necessity of ongoing support. Register here to earn ASHA CEUs and visit Speechie Side U...

May 08, 202433 min

[Podcourse] Part 2: Time Mastery for SLPs: Revolutionizing Scheduling and Service Delivery

In this episode, I am joined by Carrie Clark, M.A. CCC-SLP, to explore techniques to revolutionize scheduling and service delivery to save time without compromising on client progress. Carrie discussed a deep dive into time mastery strategies for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), particularly focusing on school-based settings. Key learning outcomes include changing mindsets to streamline processes, modifying schedules and service delivery to save time, streamlining data collection techniques,...

May 01, 202431 min

[Podcourse] Part 1: Time Mastery for SLPs: Revolutionizing Scheduling and Service Delivery

In this episode, I am joined by Carrie Clark, M.A. CCC-SLP, to explore techniques to revolutionize scheduling and service delivery to save time without compromising on client progress. Carrie discussed a deep dive into time mastery strategies for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), particularly focusing on school-based settings. Key learning outcomes include changing mindsets to streamline processes, modifying schedules and service delivery to save time, streamlining data collection techniques,...

Apr 24, 202432 min
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