The Move. Talk. Thrive. Podcast

Emily Mackie Speechie and Lizzy Dawson EP
  • 4.7 (3)
  • EDUCATION FOR KIDS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

We are child development obsessed, mums, business besties and are here to spill our secrets. We have a combined 30 years experience working with children. Each episode we will bring you up to date research and evidence based strategies to set children up to thrive. This is the Move, Talk, Thrive Podcast.

  1. 16 HRS AGO

    #77 Holding It Together: Managing Teams (and Yourself) in the End-of-Year Chaos

    In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy turn the focus from children to the adults who support them — the employees, clinicians, and leaders feeling the strain of end-of-year fatigue. As reports pile up, diaries fill, and festive logistics take over, they unpack what it truly means to “finish well” — without tipping into burnout. Drawing from their own experiences as business owners, they explore how to support teams through this demanding season, maintain co-regulation in the workplace, and balance forward planning with being present. Key Takeaways Co-regulation matters at every level: The energy you bring to your team influences everyone around you. Work smarter, not harder: Finishing well isn’t about doing more — it’s about creating clarity, structure, and support. Reflection over perfection: Take time to check in with yourself and your team — what worked, what didn’t, and how you want to show up next year. Shift from hustle to gratitude: Appreciation and acknowledgement boost morale far more than last-minute productivity pushes. Clarity calms chaos: Be clear about priorities — and let go of what can wait until the new year. Finish with intention: Ask yourself — How do I want to feel when the year ends? Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonates with how you’re feeling heading into the end of the year, share it with a fellow clinician, teacher, or teammate who could use a reminder to slow down and reflect. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

    24 min

  2. 9 NOV

    #76 Surviving the End-of-Year Slump: Strategies for Tired Kids (and Clinicians)

    In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy dive into the end-of-year chaos every parent, teacher, and pediatric professional knows too well — when everyone’s tired, routines fall apart, and regulation goes out the window. As clinicians and mums, they talk through what this season looks like in their own homes and clinics, why tired kids struggle more with regulation, and how small adjustments can make a big difference. From keeping routines simple to weaving movement and play into therapy, they share strategies for helping children (and adults!) stay calm and connected as the year wraps up. Key Takeaways Routines provide security: Keeping predictable rhythms helps children feel safe and grounded. Movement regulates: Incorporate movement — from obstacle courses to outdoor play — to support attention and emotional balance. Connection before correction: Co-regulation and therapist–child connection are key to navigating dysregulation. Adjust expectations: Simplify goals and focus on achievable wins that align with the season’s energy. Support parents: Offer realistic strategies that fit easily into daily routines. Consistency counts: Maintaining therapy helps stabilize regulation and progress, even when things feel chaotic. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonates with your own late-year experiences, share it with a fellow clinician, teacher, or parent who might need the reminder that “good enough” is sometimes exactly what’s needed. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

    17 min

  3. 2 NOV

    #75 “I’ll Do It Later”: Let’s Talk About Procrastination

    In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy unpack a habit we all fall into from time to time — procrastination. Whether it’s putting off paperwork, avoiding tricky conversations, or feeling stuck in a cycle of “I’ll do it later,” procrastination often isn’t about laziness, it’s about what’s happening underneath. Drawing from their own experiences in business and clinical work, Emily and Lizzy explore the psychology behind procrastination, the emotional triggers that fuel it, and the small mindset shifts that make it easier to take action. They share practical strategies for breaking through mental blocks; from setting micro-goals and finding your “why,” to using accountability, energy management, and even fun rewards to keep momentum going. You’ll also hear how perfectionism, fear of feedback, and unclear goals all play into the procrastination loop and how reframing these patterns can help you and your team move forward with clarity and confidence. Key Takeaways Procrastination isn’t laziness: It’s often a response to overwhelm, fear, or unclear direction. Find your “why”: Connecting the task to a meaningful outcome helps unlock motivation. Perfectionism fuels paralysis: “Progress over perfection” helps build momentum. Energy and regulation matter: Manage your physical and emotional energy before tackling hard tasks. Accountability helps: Whether it’s a mentor, colleague, or plan, external check-ins can keep you on track. Make it enjoyable: Change your environment, add small rewards, or make the task fun to reduce resistance. Feedback isn’t failure: Reframing feedback as fuel for growth builds resilience and confidence. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode got you thinking about your own procrastination patterns, share it with a friend, colleague, or fellow clinician who might need a gentle nudge too. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

    32 min

  4. 26 OCT

    #74 Is People Pleasing Fueling Your Burnout?

    In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy dive into a pattern many clinicians and caregivers know all too well — people pleasing.From the workplace to home life, the instinct to help, fix, or keep the peace often comes from a place of kindness  but when left unchecked, it can lead straight to burnout. Drawing from their personal experiences and years of work across Allied Health, Emily and Lizzy unpack how to recognize the signs of overgiving, what healthy boundaries look like, and how to care deeply without losing yourself in the process. They explore the emotional layers behind people pleasing, the impact on your wellbeing and professional growth, and small, realistic shifts that make a big difference in everyday interactions.Whether you’re a new grad learning to find your voice, a clinician navigating team dynamics, or a parent trying to model healthy limits — this episode offers practical tools and gentle reminders to help you thrive without overextending. Key Takeaways Awareness is the first step: Notice when “helping” turns into overcommitting or self-sacrifice. Boundaries protect connection: Saying “no” or “not now” can actually strengthen trust and respect. People pleasing often masks fear: It’s usually rooted in wanting to feel valued or avoid conflict. Compassion goes both ways: Extend the same care to yourself that you offer others. Burnout isn’t a badge: Overextension isn’t proof of passion — sustainability is. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode made you pause and reflect on how you show up for others (and yourself), share it with a friend, colleague, or fellow clinician who might need to hear it too.Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

    27 min
  5. #73 “The Allied Health Market is Cooked” from Allied Health Recruiter Mollie-May

    19 OCT

    #73 “The Allied Health Market is Cooked” from Allied Health Recruiter Mollie-May

    In this episode, Emily and Lizzy sit down with Mollie-May Bennett, an Allied Health recruiter from Brightside Recruitment, to unpack one of the biggest challenges facing the sector right now — finding balance between pay, sustainability, and genuine support. Drawing on her experience across Allied Health, the NDIS, and Aged Care, Mollie-May shares what’s really happening in the current job market;  from inflated salaries and clinician burnout to the growing need for values-aligned recruitment. Together, they explore how both clinicians and business owners can make more informed, sustainable choices when it comes to hiring, career growth, and retention. Whether you’re a new grad navigating job offers, an early-career clinician weighing up your next move, or a business owner wanting to attract and keep great people, this conversation will help you make grounded, confident decisions in an ever-changing landscape. Key Takeaways A big paycheque doesn’t equal real support: Short-term incentives often mask long-term burnout risks. Ask the right questions: You’re interviewing the employer just as much as they’re interviewing you. Sustainability matters: Staggered KPIs, realistic billables, and gradual ramp-up periods make for happier teams. Beware the “shiny things”: Cars, laptops and inflated salaries can’t replace supervision, mentorship and growth. Culture counts: The best workplaces are transparent, values-driven, and genuinely supportive. Support needs structure: Regular supervision, meaningful check-ins and open communication prevent burnout. Recruitment is about relationships: Long-term fit and shared values matter far more than a quick hire. About Our Guest Expert Mollie-May BennettRecruitment Consultant | Brightside Recruitment Business Details: Website: https://brightsiderecruitment.com.au Social Media: LinkedIn: Mollie-May Bennett Company LinkedIn: Brightside Recruitment AU Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode helped you rethink what real support looks like, share it with a colleague, supervisor or fellow clinician who might need to hear it. Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthrive Watch on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with the Hosts: Emily Mackie – www.emilymackie.com.au | Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson – www.lizzydawson.com.au | Instagram: @lizzydawson_

    50 min

  6. 12 OCT

    #72 Your First Year Out: What Real Support Looks Like for New Allied Health Professionals

    In this solo episode, Emily dives into a topic close to every early-career clinician’s heart; what true support really means in your first year as an allied health professional. Drawing from over 16 years of experience as a speech pathologist and business owner, she unpacks the difference between “having someone around to ask questions” and building a structured, values-driven support system that helps new grads thrive, not just survive. From supervision and systems to workplace culture and red flags to watch out for, Emily offers a grounded, practical roadmap for both new graduates entering the field and leaders wanting to create safer, more nurturing workplaces. Key Takeaways True support is structured, not spontaneous: Weekly (or daily) supervision beats an “open-door policy” every time. Observation without judgment: Safe feedback and the chance to watch others in action accelerate growth. Build gradually: Avoid overwhelming case loads—progressive onboarding prevents burnout. Systems and resources matter: Consistent frameworks and materials support clinical confidence. Culture counts: Growth happens where mistakes are seen as learning, not failure. Red flags to note: No induction process, overwork normalization, or “checklist-only” supervision. Leaders set the tone: Empathy, transparency, and clear expectations create thriving teams. Align your values: Choose (or build) workplaces that reflect who you want to become—not just who will hire you first. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode helped you reflect on what support really means, share it with a fellow clinician, supervisor, or friend who’s navigating their first year in allied health. Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthrive Watch on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

    38 min

  7. 5 OCT

    #71 Interview Insights: What Employers and New Grads Need to Know

    In this episode, Lizzy and Emily break down interviews from both sides of the table; what employers are really looking for, how new grads can prepare, and why interviews should be seen as a two-way process. They share practical tips on preparation, values-based hiring, and the power of vulnerability, plus insights on building strong teams and choosing the right workplace. Key Takeaways Interviews are a two-way process. Preparation and thoughtful questions go a long way. Values and attitude often matter more than clinical knowledge. Tools like DISC profiling and team observations improve hiring matches. Vulnerability shows honesty and self-awareness. The best hires complement team strengths, not duplicate them. Support and professional development are non-negotiables for new grads. Every interview is a chance for employers to refine their process. Shared vision unites diverse personalities in the workplace. The right workplace sets the stage for long-term career satisfaction. Resources & Links: From Aspiring Student to Successful Speechie by Emily Mackie Lizzy’s online clinical courses Preschool Language Accelerator with Emily Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive Instagram: @movetalkthrive YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Lizzy Dawson – Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au | Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie – Website: www.emilymackie.com.au | Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie

    33 min

  8. 28 SEPT

    #70 Thriving Through Change: NDIS, Thriving Kids, and What’s Next

    In this candid episode, Lizzy and Emily unpack the uncertainty allied health businesses face with looming NDIS changes and the proposed Thriving Kids program. They share how they’re preparing their own practices; balancing personal life, clinical work, and business strategy, while encouraging listeners to think ahead too. From funding shifts to new service models, they explore what it takes to stay resilient and pivot-ready in a changing landscape. Whether you’re a solo practitioner or managing a team, this conversation offers practical strategies to strengthen systems, diversify services, and adapt with confidence. Key Takeaways Be pivot-ready: build resilience through varied services, funding, and partnerships. NDIS vs. Thriving Kids: prepare for funding and service delivery changes. Plan ahead: align business strategy with personal timelines and growth goals. Diversify: don’t rely on one income stream; build your private client base. Partnerships: connect with schools, councils, and early learning centres. Pricing: re-evaluate fees as funding structures shift. Caseload mix: anticipate changes in client severity and complexity. Stay proactive, not panicked: flexibility and strong systems are key. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode helped you see play-based therapy in a new light, share it with a colleague, parent, or fellow clinician who wants therapy to feel both fun and effective. Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthrive Watch on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Lizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

We are child development obsessed, mums, business besties and are here to spill our secrets. We have a combined 30 years experience working with children. Each episode we will bring you up to date research and evidence based strategies to set children up to thrive. This is the Move, Talk, Thrive Podcast.

Information

  • Creator
    Emily Mackie Speechie and Lizzy Dawson EP
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Emily Mackie Speechie and Lizzy Dawson EP
  • Show Website
    The Move. Talk. Thrive. Podcast

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