We bring attention to a widespread challenge in clinical care: decisions and recommendation that don’t follow the patient. Whether it’s missing imaging, undocumented rationale, or unclear explanations, these breakdowns in continuity disrupt care, bias clinical judgment, and strip patients of informed choice. Explore what happens when information isn’t transferred in a usable, human-centered way—and how clinicians can bridge the gaps with clearer communication, defensible rationale, and simple to...
May 29, 2025•44 min•Season 2Ep. 13
This episode explores the concepts of patient centric care and research—does intervention matter if your patient doesn’t care about it? With insights from decades of clinical practice and research, the guests share strategies for therapy that actually fits real lives. Guests: Dr. Giselle Carnaby, MPH, PhD, CCC-SLP, F-ASHA Dr. Michael Crary, PhD, F-ASHA Support the show Gap Education: https://swallowthegap.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GapEducationLLC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com...
Apr 28, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 2Ep. 12
With our dedication to our patients, we've gained a deeper understanding of the complexity of swallowing and dysphagia. How can we use these insights to advance SLP education and our own professional growth? Guest: Nicole Wiksten, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S Support the show Gap Education: https://swallowthegap.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GapEducationLLC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho...
Mar 20, 2025•37 min•Season 2Ep. 11
What does pre-stroke neurological health have to do with swallowing prognosis, post stroke? In this episode, Dr. Janina Wilmskoetter, Assistant Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina, discusses her recent publication, Cerebral Small Vessel Disease is an Independent Determinant of Dysphagia After Acute Stroke. Join us for insights into clinical implications for patients with dysphagia! For questions, reach out to Dr. Wilmskoetter at wilmskoe@musc.edu , and access the article via ht...
Feb 06, 2025•36 min•Season 2Ep. 10
Dr. Catriona Steele , president of the Dysphagia Research Society, discusses her journey in dysphagia research, including motivation from her pre-PhD days, and focuses on systematic reviews. She highlights the need for rigorous and transparent methodologies in evaluating research quality, introduces the FRONTIERS framework, and underscores the importance of continual learning and questioning in the field. Episode Resources from Dr. Steele: PRISMA guideline: Moher, D., Liberati, A., Tetzlaff, J.,...
Dec 19, 2024•57 min•Season 2Ep. 9
What happens when you get 6 speech pathologists with 150 years of collective experience stuck together in a room? You’ll have to listen to find out! Join Julie Blair, Laurie Sterling, Dr. Deb Suiter, Dr. Barbara Messing, Jo Puntil, and Dr. Tim Stockdale (that’s 1, 2, 3, 4 ASHA fellows!) in a special edition episode, as we enjoy a laid-back evening conversation at the 2024 ASHA Convention in Seattle, Washington. Reflections include Swallowing Cinema, patient choice, and growing through vulnerabil...
Dec 10, 2024•42 min•Season 2Ep. 8
Believe it or not, there is extensive variability in how dysphagia is defined. Listen in as Drs. Giselle Carnaby, Debra Suiter, and Martin Brodsky discuss challenges and importance of defining dysphagia. The discussion highlights variability in how dysphagia is understood and defined across research, clinical practice, and healthcare systems. This gap has implications for patient care, reimbursement, and professional credibility. While acknowledging the complexity of the task, the speakers empha...
Nov 21, 2024•36 min•Season 2Ep. 7
Join us for an insightful discussion with Jaclyn Pederson, CEO of Feeding Matters, as we discuss the critical gaps in education for pediatric feeding disorders. Jaclyn sheds light on the challenges faced by clinicians, who often lack the specialized training needed to manage complex feeding issues in children. Drawing on her background in nonprofit leadership and healthcare innovation, she shares a strategic approach to advocating for improved education and research in this area. This episode ca...
Nov 13, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode, we explore how a solid understanding of cranial nerves can make dysphagia evaluations more precise and guide treatment. By knowing which nerves impact each part of the swallow and how to interpret the oral mechanical exam, clinicians can tailor treatments to lead to better patient outcomes. Guest: Kendrea L. Garand, PhD, CScD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CBIS, CCRE This episode is graciously sponsored by Bracco Diagnostics, maker of VARIBAR® (barium sulfate) - Check them out at VaribarMBS.c...
Oct 30, 2024•42 min•Season 2Ep. 5
In this episode, we turn the tables as guest host Jeanette Benigas, PhD, interviews Tim on the concept of "functional" swallowing. They explore what truly defines functional swallowing by delving into its core impact on nutrition, hydration, quality of life, and pulmonary health. Together, they reframe our understanding of swallowing function, challenging traditional views and grounding the discussion in clinical outcomes that matter most. Check out Tim's MBSS/VFSS, which is discussed in this ep...
Oct 23, 2024•41 min•Season 2Ep. 4
Join Tim and Dr. Gabriela "Gabi" Constantinescu as they explore the use of surface electromyography (sEMG) in swallowing rehabilitation. Gabi, with her background as a clinician and PhD in Rehabilitation Medicine, shares insights on how sEMG biofeedback can enhance patient engagement and outcomes in dysphagia therapy. Whether you're familiar with this technology or new to it, this episode offers a clear and practical overview of how sEMG works, its benefits, and its potential for clinical practi...
Sep 25, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 3
We’re thrilled to have a neurology physician out of Düsseldorf, Germany join us to explore neurogenic dysphagia and the role of interdisciplinary treatments in its management. Dr. Bendix Labeit will introduce central compensatory mechanisms, brain stimulation, pharmacological therapies, and more, offering insights to shift the way SLPs approach dysphagia care. Episode Sponsor: Phagenesis -Non-surgical, neurostimulation therapy to restore swallowing control https://www.phagenesis.com/ Hard to Swa...
Sep 17, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 2
How can Inspiratory Muscle Strength Training (IMST) be integrated into your patient care? In this episode, we explore respiratory muscle strength training (RMST), with a specific focus on IMST—one of the less familiar tools for speech-language pathologists. Tune in as we discuss the science and real-world applications of RMST, with expert insights from Dr. Alex Brandimore. Whether you’re new to RMST or looking to deepen your knowledge, this episode offers valuable insights for advancing dysphagi...
Sep 16, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 1
This episode continues the discussion from the April 20th, 2024 webinar "Dysphagia in Patients with Pulmonary Compromise: ICU and Beyond." It is a special release that falls between Season 1 and Season 2, covering topics related to dysphagia practice in patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). It is also relevant to long-term acute care units (LTAC) and other settings. This episode expresses opinions of the guests and hosts. It should not be taken to represent our employers or as health or leg...
Jun 25, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 17
In a startling sample of patients, 67% of those with a modified diet and 61% of those with feeding tubes who were then assessed with FEES did not appear to even have dysphagia (Bice et al., 2024)! Soon to be Dr. Matthew Ward (🤞April 18th) and Tim discuss jarring data from Matt’s recent publication Dysphagia and Diets in Skilled Nursing Facilities When Patient's Health Status Changes: The Role of Imaging . Moving beyond the angst of the metaphorical mirror of dysphagia management, we highlight t...
Apr 16, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 16
How can you prevent ~40 pneumonia cases and save $1.5 million in 1 year? Listen to find out! Join us today with three doctorate-level healthcare providers and an advanced practice nurse as we unravel startling data on the effect of oral hygiene on hospital-acquired pneumonia. Our expert guests will dive into how something as simple as improved oral hygiene can not only enhance patient outcomes (by ~37%!!) but also potentially save healthcare facilities millions of dollars. This episode contains ...
Apr 09, 2024•53 min•Season 1Ep. 15
This episode is a must-listen for those who dream big about inspiring positive change and for clinicians who may need a boost in their motivation. Sam Walker, an SLP and business owner, shares transformative lessons from her mother's 72-day hospitalization battling sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and the rigors of invasive airway support. With her unique blend of personal experience and professional acumen, Sam elevates a perspective on patient care and education that intertw...
Mar 26, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 14
In this episode, we discuss diagnosing and managing dysphagia in patients with dementia. Dr. Jeannette Benigas and Rinki Varindani Desai integrate various sources with their own professional experience to help better equip SLPs to partner with our patients. Episode Resources: Free webinar of NFOSD: https://swallowingdisorderfoundation.com/webinar-recording-dysphagia-dementia/ NFOSD blog post for caregivers: https://swallowingdisorderfoundation.com/caregivers-guide-dysphagia-dementia/ ECAT https:...
Mar 19, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 13
Corinne Jones, Ph.D., CCC-SLP delves into how SLPs can analyze and interpret clinical trials to facilitate translation of the science to our clinical practice. There is an emphasis on how clinicians form the foundations of research and how to build synergy with researchers. Bio Dr. Corinne Jones is an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, focusing on Neurology and Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (SLHS). She completed her undergraduate studies in Linguistics with a mino...
Mar 12, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 12
From publication pushback to trailblazing in the continuing education world, Dr. Ianessa Humbert and Rinki Varindani Desai discuss challenges - and payoffs - of infusing new ideas into the field of speech-language pathology. Biographies: Dr. Humbert, PhD is an accomplished scientist, professor, and highly sought-after speaker with expertise and swallowing and swallowing disorders. Dr. Humbert is a world renowned 'Swallowologist,' the CEO and Co-founder of STEP - The Swallowing Training and Educa...
Mar 05, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 11
In perhaps the most laid back and chaotic episode ever, George and Tim discuss factors that influence clinical decision making. This episode discusses foundations to allow medical SLPs to be more empirical and evidence-based our decision making. The discussion exalts the idea of harnessing our ability to think overcome flaws in clinical reasoning and to critically to facilitate more ideal outcomes in patient care. Bio George Barnes MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S is a board-certified specialist in swallowing...
Feb 27, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode we integrate the experiences of three unique individuals who all landed in the same program, but with vastly different roles: a student, director of clinical education, and an associate professor. Themes include– but aren’t limited to - transitioning from student to clinician, self-assessment, fostering synergy via dialogue & debate, guidance for grads & mentors, and sharing mistakes. This episode is a must-listen for students, mentors, recent graduates, and all who are i...
Feb 20, 2024•51 min•Season 1Ep. 9
Dr. Julie Barkmeier-Kraemer discusses the transformative impact of learning from failure, managing self-expectations, and imposter syndrome. She draws from her experience as a clinician, instructor, researcher, administrator, and more to provide insights into developing oneself and revolutionizing education for speech-language pathologists. With brief tangents about cranial nerves and clinical swallow evaluations, the conversation navigates topics such as critical thinking, the strengths of case...
Feb 13, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 8
This episode is essential for anyone struggling with conflicting expectations from their education, patients, administration, and personal goals. Our guest, Ed Bice, delves into how we can reconcile differences when we are faced with competing ideas. We explore strategies for navigating challenging situations and enhancing communication skills. Additionally, the episode focuses on the importance of leveraging the knowledge of those you are negotiating with, especially when advocating for more re...
Feb 06, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 7
On today's episode, we scratch the surface on variables beyond aspiration that impact dysphagia-related pneumonia in our patients. Our guest, Dr. John R. Ashford, Ph.D., brings a wealth of knowledge from his experience in clinical practice, academia, and research. Furthermore, we discuss lab values, education, life-long learning, and how SLPs can become more medically-focused in their patient care. Join us as Dr. Ashford provides valuable insights to help bridge the gap between research and prac...
Jan 30, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 6
Raele Donetha Robison, PhD, CCC-SLP of University of Wisconsin-Madison offers her perspectives on healthcare inequities faced by individuals with dysphagia. With her rich understanding of complexities in patient care - such as the concepts of functional reserves and homeostasis - she provides enlightening comparisons between the challenges encountered in healthcare on both individual and societal scales. Bio: Dr. Robison is a Speech-Language Pathologist and current postdoctoral fellow at the Uni...
Jan 23, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 5
Dr. Vose touches on the importance of nuance while reflecting on her 2018 paper, "A Survey of Clinician Decision Making When Identifying Swallowing Impairments and Determining Treatment," and why understanding the methodology in research is a key element of evidence based practice. This episode also discusses translating science outside of speech-language pathology into our practice, the need for more treatment research, and our motivation to keep growing as a profession. "By acknowledging the g...
Jan 16, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Dr. Carly Barbon from M.D. Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX) and Faith Hoelzel-Lemke from Huntsman Cancer Center (Salt Lake City, UT) provide a glimpse into specialized dysphagia care for patients with - and survivors of - cancers of the head and neck (HNC). Join us in this jovial dialogue and learn makes care for this population so memorable! Go Pack... Go?! Bios: Carly E. A. Barbon, PhD Dr. Carly Barbon is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Head and Neck Surgery at The University o...
Jan 09, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 3
Dr. Jeanette Benigas shares her insight into ethical dysphagia intervention that exemplifies patient-centered care. What do you do when a patient is not agreeable to your recommendations? How do we be sure to not undermine patient autonomy when a patient wants something that we may not consider to be "safe"? Bio: Jeanette E. Benigas, PhD Dr. Jeanette E. Benigas owns Safe Swallowing Diagnostics, a mobile FEES company serving Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. Her extensive clinical experience...
Jan 09, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Guests: Dr. Martin Brodsky, & Jo Puntil Join us in a conversation exploring what it means to be your authentic self while providing patient-centered care in a high-stakes medical setting. Bios Martin Brodsky, PhD, ScM, CCC-SLP, ASHA Fellow Dr. Martin Brodsky is the Section Head for Speech-Language Pathology in the Head and Neck Institute at Cleveland Clinic and Adjunct Associate Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Johns Hopkins Univer...
Jan 02, 2024•1 hr•Season 1Ep. 1
