Bright Conversations

Bright Ideas Media
  • 5.0 (3)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Bright Conversations, a podcast by Bright Ideas Media, is your space for "Conversations that Connect" and the tools to "Learn Today, Use it Tomorrow." Rooted in compassion and a shared passion for supporting clients with diverse needs, this podcast features engaging discussions to empower SLPs and the entire SPED team. Each episode offers practical insights, meaningful strategies, and uplifting stories. Bright Conversations will leave you feeling inspired, supported, and ready to make an even greater impact on the lives of the clients you serve.

  1. DEC 15

    The Speech Shelf Story: Building Affordable Tools for SLPs

    📌 Episode Summary:In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye Glover-Jones sits down with Sophia Ermmarino, SLP graduate student and founder of The Speech Shelf, for an honest, eye-opening discussion about the financial realities of becoming—and being—a speech-language pathologist. From graduate school costs and unpaid internships to the pressure of buying materials and navigating early-career salaries, Sophia shares her lived experience and the inequities that pushed her to create a more affordable, accessible resource platform for SLPs. This conversation shines a light on the need for financial transparency in our field, the hidden expectations placed on student clinicians, and the systems that create unnecessary barriers for those entering the profession. Sophia also shares her vision for a more equitable, community-supported future where high-quality therapy materials are accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. 👤 Guest Bio:Sophia Ermmarino is a speech-language pathology graduate student and the founder of The Speech Shelf, a low-cost, unlimited-access therapy materials platform designed to support students, CFs, and school-based SLPs. Inspired by her own experiences navigating the financial challenges of graduate school and early career demands, Sophia is committed to increasing transparency, reducing inequity, and empowering the next generation of SLPs with accessible tools and resources. 🗣️ Topics We Cover in This Episode: Sophia’s path into the profession and her early experiences as an SLP student The real financial burden of becoming an SLP: tuition, unpaid placements, materials, and more The origin story of The Speech Shelf and the need it fills in the field How affordability and access impact student clinicians and early-career SLPs The “hidden curriculum” in SLP programs and why open conversations about money matter Practical ideas for building a more equitable and transparent future for SLPs Supporting the next generation through community-driven, budget-friendly solutions 📚 Learning Objectives: By listening to this episode, you’ll be able to:✅ Describe the financial challenges faced by SLP students and early-career clinicians✅ Recognize how lack of transparency affects access, equity, and burnout✅ Identify strategies to support affordability and accessibility within therapy practice 💬 Memorable Quote: “Nobody prepares you for how expensive it is just to become an SLP.” — Sophia Ermmarino 🔗 Resources & Links: The Speech Shelf: https://www.thespeechshelf.com/ ASHA Student Resources: https://www.asha.org/students/ Scholarships: ASHA Minority Student Scholarship, NSSLHA Scholarships, state-level loan forgiveness Teacher/Special Ed Mini-Grants: DonorsChoose, Scholastic Action Grants, local foundations Affordable Material Repositories: The Informed SLP, curated TPT free resources Budgeting Tools: EveryDollar, YNAB, Mint

    28 min

  2. DEC 1

    The Origin Story of SLP Summit: Building Community, Connection, and Confidence

    📌 Episode Summary:In this special episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye Glover Jones sits down with the founders of SLP Summit — Lisa Kathman and Sarah Bevier of SLP Toolkit and Marisha Mets of SLP Now. Together, they share how a simple idea to connect SLPs and provide accessible professional development grew into a beloved, career-sustaining event that’s been going strong for nine years. Listeners will hear the behind-the-scenes story of how the Summit began, how it’s evolved, and what continues to motivate these leaders to create meaningful, affordable, and community-centered learning experiences for SLPs worldwide. 👤 Guest Bios:Lisa Kathman, M.S., CCC-SLPLisa is a school-based speech-language pathologist and co-founder of SLP Toolkit, a digital platform that helps SLPs streamline data collection, progress monitoring, and goal tracking. She’s passionate about making clinical work more efficient and empowering clinicians with practical tools that make their work more sustainable. Sarah Bevier, M.S., CCC-SLPSarah is a speech-language pathologist and co-founder of SLP Toolkit. She’s known for her humor, honesty, and deep understanding of what it means to juggle real-world SLP responsibilities. Sarah believes in supporting clinicians through transparency, collaboration, and fun. Marisha Mets, M.S., CCC-SLPMarisha is the founder of SLP Now, a membership platform designed to help SLPs plan, organize, and deliver evidence-based therapy with confidence. She blends her experience as a school-based SLP with a systems mindset, helping professionals work smarter, not harder. 🗣️ Topics We Cover in This Episode: How SLP Summit began — the conversation that sparked an event now in its ninth year Why accessibility and affordability matter in professional development How collaboration between SLP Toolkit and SLP Now built a movement The evolution of the Summit from small beginnings to a global PD event Keeping the focus on community, connection, and confidence over competition Favorite moments, lessons learned, and behind-the-scenes memories What’s next for SLP Summit and how the team continues to innovate 📚 Learning Objectives: By listening to this episode, you’ll be able to:✅ Describe the origin and evolution of SLP Summit and its impact on the SLP community✅ Identify the key values that guide the event’s continued success — accessibility, collaboration, and relevance✅ Reflect on how community-driven professional development sustains growth and engagement throughout an SLP’s career 🔗 Resources & Links: SLP Summit – Register for the next event and learn from expert presenters SLP Toolkit – Streamline data collection and goal tracking SLP Now – Plan and organize therapy with evidence-based tools Bright Ideas Media – Your home for practical, accessible professional development

    43 min

  3. NOV 17

    “Why /r/ Is So Hard: A Conversation About Speech Sound Disorders with Dr. Kelly Farquharson”

    📌 Episode Summary:In this special episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye Glover Jones sits down with Dr. Kelly Farquharson, professor at Florida State University and director of the Children’s Literacy and Speech Sound (CLaSS) Lab, for an in-depth discussion about speech sound disorders—and why the /r/ sound continues to challenge SLPs everywhere. Kelly unpacks the science behind articulatory placement, motor planning, and phonetic variation while offering practical, evidence-based strategies to support real-world therapy. Listeners will gain clarity on the difference between developmental errors and disordered patterns, why early intervention matters, and how implementation science bridges research and classroom practice. 👤 Guest Bio:Dr. Kelly Farquharson, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, is an associate professor in the School of Communication Science and Disorders at Florida State University and director of the Children’s Literacy and Speech Sound (CLaSS) Lab. Her research focuses on improving outcomes for children with speech sound disorders and language impairments through school-based implementation science. A frequent conference presenter and educator, Kelly is also known for her popular Phonetics Friday series on social media, where she blends humor and evidence to make speech science accessible and fun for clinicians. 🗣️ Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why /r/ is such a challenging sound to teach and master The science behind articulatory placement and motor planning Distinguishing between developmental patterns and true speech sound disorders Understanding dialectal variation versus disorder Contextualized and functional approaches to targeting speech sounds Why “waiting until age 8” is too late for intervention Using implementation science to strengthen classroom carryover and collaboration How SLPs can practice confidently at the top of their license 📚 Learning Objectives: By listening to this episode, you’ll be able to:✅ Describe the factors that make /r/ and other speech sounds difficult to remediate✅ Identify evidence-based strategies for contextualized, functional speech sound intervention✅ Explain how implementation science principles can improve collaboration and carryover in schools 🔗 Resources & Links: Children’s Literacy and Speech Sound (CLaSS) Lab Speech Sound Disorders Series Facilitative Context Deck – Rock the R Coarticulation Deck – Rock the R Learn more about motor chaining and other strategies mentioned in this episode

    39 min

  4. NOV 10

    Respect the Dialect: Advocating for African American English in Education

    Earn ASHA CEUs for listening to this episode and learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.bethebrightest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. 📌 Episode Summary: Dr. Dionna Latimer Hearn joins us for a powerful conversation about African American English (AAE), its role in educational equity, and what it truly means to respect the dialect. We explore how systemic bias shows up in schools, how educators and SLPs can shift from deficit-based frameworks to affirming practices, and how to better support Black students who are also neurodivergent or have communication differences. 👤 Guest Bio: Dr. Dionna Latimer Hearn is a scholar, consultant, and founder of React Initiative, Inc. With over 20 years of experience supporting culturally and linguistically diverse learners in the U.S., Japan, and France, she is a leading voice in centering AAE in educational equity work. Through her platform Respect the Dialect, Dr. Hearn empowers educators and speech-language pathologists to shift mindsets, dismantle bias, and adopt culturally and linguistically affirming practices. 🗣️ Topics We Cover in This Episode: What African American English (AAE) actually is—a rule-governed, consistent, and legitimate dialect How systemic bias and deficit thinking impact AAE-speaking students The difference between linguistic difference and disorder Why traditional assessments often fail AAE speakers—and what to use instead How to advocate for linguistic justice in schools and therapy spaces The intersection of race, language, and disability in educational systems How to support and affirm students through culturally sustaining instruction and assessment Dr. Hearn’s “Respect the Dialect” movement and how you can get involved 📚 Learning Objectives: By listening to this episode, you’ll be able to:✅ Define African American English (AAE) and describe its linguistic features as a rule-governed dialect✅ Recognize the impact of deficit thinking on AAE-speaking students✅ Identify culturally sustaining assessment practices that reduce bias✅ Apply principles of linguistic justice to your therapeutic and educational decisions✅ Understand how race, language, and disability interact through an intersectional lens. 🔗 Learn more at: https://respectthedialect.org📩 Follow Dr. Hearn: @respectthedialect Earn ASHA CEUs for listening to this episode and learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.bethebrightest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

    53 min

  5. NOV 6

    Not Just an Assistant – Leadership, Visibility & The SLPA Network

    📌 Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Shontaye and Sarah sit down with Alice Williams — a nationally recognized Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA), entrepreneur, and founder of The SLPA Network. With over seven years in the field, Alice shares how she turned professional gaps into a thriving community for support personnel including SLPAs, COTAs, PTAs, and RBTs. She challenges the “just an assistant” myth, opens up about her own leadership journey, and explains how visibility, mentorship, and collaboration can empower support professionals to lead and thrive — regardless of their title. 👤 Guest Bio: Alice Williams is an SLPA, mentor, and founder of The SLPA Network, a professional community supporting speech-language pathology assistants and related support personnel. Her work centers on dismantling stereotypes, building equity in professional development, and empowering others to lead with confidence. Through coaching, community-building, and advocacy, Alice helps others step into their leadership potential and make an impact in their field. 🗣️ Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why being “just an assistant” is a harmful myth — and how to rewrite the narrative The story behind The SLPA Network and how it empowers support professionals How to lead from any role, without needing a title or formal position Speaking up, showing your work, and advocating for yourself and your profession The value of mentorship and how to both give and receive support Common challenges support personnel face in schools, clinics, and beyond Strategies to ensure equity in access to professional development and growth opportunities 📚 Learning Objectives:By listening to this episode, you’ll be able to:✅ List strategies for increasing visibility and leadership opportunities as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA)✅ Describe the mission and purpose of The SLPA Network and how it supports professional growth✅ Apply advocacy and mentorship principles to enhance equity and collaboration in multi-disciplinary teams

    39 min

  6. OCT 27

    Advocacy and Special Education Law with Krystal Ash

    Earn ASHA CEUs for listening to this episode and learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.bethebrightest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. 📌 Episode Summary:In this episode of Bright Conversations, hosts Shontaye Glover Jones and Sarah Bevier sit down with attorney Krystal Ash of K Altman Law to continue a powerful conversation that began at the July 2025 SLP Summit. Krystal’s course on advocacy and special education law drew overwhelming feedback from participants who wanted even more time to dive into the complexities of how legal frameworks impact the daily work of SLPs. Together, they unpack the realities of serving students within the special education system, answer common questions from clinicians, and share practical strategies for navigating challenging situations—while keeping the student at the center. 👤 Guest Bio:Krystal Ash is an attorney with K Altman Law, where she focuses on special education, K-12 and higher education student defense, and civil rights. She regularly provides training and webinars for educators and clinicians, equipping them with the knowledge to understand and apply legal frameworks in ways that protect student rights and foster collaboration. Through her work, Krystal empowers SLPs, families, and school teams to navigate complex situations with clarity, confidence, and compassion. 🗣️ Topics We Cover in This Episode: The legal backbone of special education services and how laws like IDEA shape practiceWhy advocacy is a core responsibility of SLPs—not just a “nice to have”Approaching IEP meetings with clarity, confidence, and student-centered focusHonoring parent rights while balancing school responsibilitiesWhat to do when disagreements over eligibility, services, or placement ariseProactive steps to take before disputes escalate to mediation or due processPractical strategies for collaboration and trust-building with parents and teams 📚 Learning Objectives: By listening to this episode, you’ll be able to:✅ Describe how IDEA and related laws impact special education services and supports✅ Explain the role of advocacy as part of the SLP scope of practice✅ Identify strategies for navigating disagreements with parents and school teams✅ Apply proactive approaches to prevent disputes from escalating✅ Enter IEP meetings with tools for clear communication and effective advocacy 🔗 Resources & Links: K Altman Law Website – webinar registration via the homepage bannerK Altman Law Blog – articles covering SPED, student defense, and civil rightsPrevious Webinars & YouTube ChannelFollow K Altman Law: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInEarn ASHA CEUs for listening to this episode and learn more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.bethebrightest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

    57 min

  7. OCT 15

    You’re the Expert (Even When You Don’t Feel Like One)” with Sam Walker

    📌 Episode Summary:In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Lisa Kathman sits down with Sam Walker—SLP, content creator, and mentor to graduate students and early-career clinicians—to talk about navigating the early years of our profession. Together, they explore how to find confidence when you're placed in an unfamiliar setting, how to handle being called “the expert” before you feel like one, and how to embrace growth without expecting perfection. Sam’s humor, honesty, and practical insights remind listeners that everyone starts somewhere—and that self-compassion is just as essential as clinical skill. 👤 Guest Bio:Sam Walker, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, digital creator, and advocate for new and future SLPs. Known for her relatable posts, helpful resources, and honest perspective on the realities of the profession, Sam helps early-career clinicians build confidence and find community. Through her online platforms and merchandise brand, she brings humor, heart, and practical wisdom to the SLP experience. 🗣️ Topics We Cover in This Episode: Adjusting to new or unexpected clinical settings Overcoming imposter syndrome as a new SLP What to do when others see you as “the expert” before you feel ready Building confidence through mentorship and reflection Finding your voice and boundaries early in your career The importance of community and shared experience among SLPs 📚 Learning Objectives: By listening to this episode, you’ll be able to:✅ Identify common challenges new SLPs face when entering the workforce✅ Describe strategies to build self-confidence and manage imposter syndrome✅ Apply reflective practices to navigate professional growth and uncertainty✅ Recognize the importance of mentorship and collaboration in early career success 🔗 Connect with Sam Walker:Instagram: @speakingofsamantics and @slptestprepWebsites: slptestprep.com and speakingofsamantics.com

    31 min

  8. SEP 29

    Rock the R: Practical Strategies for Tackling the /r/ Sound with Lindsay Hockel

    📌 Episode Summary:In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Lisa Kathman sits down with speech sound expert Lindsay Hockel, founder of Rock the R. Together they unpack the challenges of treating the notoriously tricky /r/ sound and explore practical, evidence-based strategies that help students make measurable progress. From biofeedback tools to student self-rating, Lindsay shares her favorite approaches for making therapy engaging, effective, and empowering for both clinicians and students. 👤 Guest Bio:Lindsay Hockel, M.S., CCC-SLP, is the founder of Rock the R, a platform dedicated to helping SLPs feel more confident in treating the /r/ sound. With years of clinical experience and a passion for speech sound disorders, Lindsay equips clinicians with tools, strategies, and mindset shifts that simplify treatment while keeping students motivated and involved in their own progress. 🗣️ Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why the /r/ sound is so difficult to treat and common misconceptions Using biofeedback tools and motor learning principles for more effective therapy Strategies for tackling vocalic /r/ and coarticulation challenges Teaching students self-rating and metacognition to boost buy-in and progress Mindset shifts that help SLPs stay curious, flexible, and student-centered 📚 Learning Objectives: By listening to this episode, you’ll be able to:✅ Explain why the /r/ sound presents unique challenges in therapy✅ Apply principles of biofeedback and motor learning in practice✅ Scaffold and shape vocalic /r/ productions effectively✅ Incorporate self-rating and metacognitive strategies with students✅ Adopt a flexible, student-centered mindset for /r/ therapy success 🔗 Resources & Links: Rock the R on Instagram Rock the R YouTube Tutorials Elicitation Course – Rock the R University R Assessment Tool BITS Lab – staRt | Instagram Speech Production Lab – Syracuse Clinical Biofeedback Lab – MSU

    33 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Bright Conversations, a podcast by Bright Ideas Media, is your space for "Conversations that Connect" and the tools to "Learn Today, Use it Tomorrow." Rooted in compassion and a shared passion for supporting clients with diverse needs, this podcast features engaging discussions to empower SLPs and the entire SPED team. Each episode offers practical insights, meaningful strategies, and uplifting stories. Bright Conversations will leave you feeling inspired, supported, and ready to make an even greater impact on the lives of the clients you serve.

Information

  • Creator
    Bright Ideas Media
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Bright Ideas Media
  • Show Website
    Bright Conversations

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