First Bite: Fed, Fun, Functional SLP Insights

Speech Therapy PD
Speech Therapy PD
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First Bite is your go-to resource for all things pediatric speech therapy–covering pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders, lactation, AAC, early language acquisition, advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration. Designed to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, the podcast brings functional, evidence-based insights straight to clinicians serving little ones and their caregivers. Whether you’re a student, seasoned practitioner, researcher, or interprofessional partner, First Bite invites you to listen, learn, and grow alongside a supportive community. Gain the confidence to take whatever “first bite” comes next in your clinical practice–one heartfelt and tea-fueled conversation at a time. Hosted by Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP–bestselling author of "Chasing the Swallow: Truth, Science, and Hope for Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Disorders," joyful boy mom, and early intervention specialist–First Bite explores the latest research, clinical strategies, and lived experiences shaping pediatric speech therapy today. This is a Speech Therapy PD podcast, allowing you to earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for each episode. For select episodes, colleagues with their CLC can earn CERPs. Visit speechtherapypd.com to learn more. See Michelle's book at: amazon.com/Chasing-Swallow-Pediatric-Swallowing-Disorders/dp/B095WW2H5X

  1. 1d ago

    The Bad Lunch Myth: Bias and Equity in School Feeding with Lily Glasgo

    A conversation examining the intersection of systems, bias, and clinical practice to promote equitable feeding experiences for all students. Guest: Lily Glasgo, PhD, OTR/L Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD Watch on YouTube In this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, sits down with Lily Glasgo, PhD, OTR/L, to explore how bias, policy, and politics have shaped the history of school meals and what that means for children today. Through the lens of institutional feeding systems, this conversation examines how school-based meal programs influence participation, access, and outcomes for students, particularly those with pediatric feeding disorder (PFD). Together, they discuss the role of school-based clinicians, including the balance between therapeutic intervention and maintaining safe feeding practices, and how interprofessional collaboration can support more inclusive, student-centered care. About the Guest: Lily M. Glasgo, PhD, OTR/L, (she/her) is an OT who is passionate about system level change to support kids with significant support needs. She gained clinical experience in outpatient and school based feeding before completing her PhD in Occupational Science from UNC Chapel Hill. Now, as an assistant professor at Pacific University, she teaches pediatrics and engages in a variety of research projects about pediatric feeding disorder. Show Notes: Contact LilyThe Feeding LinkFeeding Matters DirectoryNational Education AssociationVirginia Department of Health - Maternal Mental Health Books: The Astral Library by Kate Quinn Feeding Tubes and Crushing on Dudes by Hannah Setzer Love Money Cause: Spoon Foundation

    The Bad Lunch Myth: Bias and Equity in School Feeding with Lily Glasgo

  2. Oct 6

    Finding Your Niche in Feeding Therapy and Building a Private Practice with Jean Hawney

    This episode offers practical guidance on building a feeding practice that is clinically sound, ethical, and sustainable. Guest: Jean Hawney, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CLC Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD Watch on YouTube In this episode of First Bite, host Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, is joined by Jean Hawney, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CLC, to break down some of the biggest barriers pediatric SLPs face when considering private practice, from mindset blocks and finding your niche to the logistical challenges of getting started. Michelle and Jean dig into what SLPs need to consider when building a feeding-focused practice, including scope of practice, advanced training, ethical decision-making, and the resources that can help guide the process. About the Guest: Jean Hawney, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CLC is a pediatric speech-language pathologist and feeding specialist, and the founder of Little Eaters & Talkers, a multidisciplinary private practice based in Houston, Texas. Jean specializes in infant and pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders, with a focus on medically complex infants, bottle aversion, early feeding development, and caregiver coaching. Show Notes: The American Association of People with Disabilities Contact Jean: IG: @littleaters_talkers Website: thelittleeaters.com Love Money Cause: Hope for Minds

    Finding Your Niche in Feeding Therapy and Building a Private Practice with Jean Hawney

  3. Oct 1

    Beyond “Won’t”: Trauma, Regulation, and Collaborative Care

    Trauma-sensitive care and interprofessional collaboration to better support children and families. Guest: Lauren Thompson, MEd, CCC-SLP, CLC, and Allissa Younan, MS, OTR/L Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD Watch on YouTube In this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, is joined by Lauren Thompson, MEd, CCC-SLP, CLC, and Allissa Younan, MS, OTR/L, to discuss how combining clinical perspectives can strengthen care for children with feeding challenges, sensory differences, nervous system dysregulation, and other complex needs. They consider what may be behind a child’s apparent refusal, shifting the focus from a child who “won’t” participate to one who may not yet feel safe, regulated, or supported enough to engage. About the Guests: Lauren Thompson, M.Ed., CCC-SLP, CLC, is a Speech-Language Pathologist and Certified Lactation Counselor, and the owner of Well Fed Feeding & Swallowing Therapy in Londonderry, New Hampshire. Since 2012, she has supported infants and children with Pediatric Feeding Disorder, dysphagia, lactation challenges, ARFID, and feeding-related trauma across inpatient rehabilitation, hospital-based outpatient care, Level II and III NICUs, and public schools. Allissa Younan, MS, OTR/L is a pediatric occupational therapist, TBRI practitioner, and owner of Holistic Abilities where she is passionate about helping children and families thrive through evidence-informed, relationship-based care. She specializes in sensory processing, feeding, and supporting children to make gains in their everyday life. Contact the Guests: Lauren Thompson on LinkedInLauren’s Website: www.wellfedfeedingtherapy.comAllissa Younan on LinkedIn Show Notes: Feeding MattersTrauma-sensitive DefinitionTrust‑Based Relational InterventionDr. Dan Siegel's Hand Model of the BrainThe Rabbit Listened by Cori DoerrfeldPediatric Feeding Disorder Consensus Definition and Conceptual Framework AB-SSD 2026 Summer Webinar Series - PediatricEmpowering Providers Through Transforming Pediatric Feeding Journeys Courses:Trust-based relational intervention (TBRI): A systemic approach to complex developmental traumaLove Money Cause: www.feedingmatters.org References: Hockey, R., Philpott-Robinson, K., Haracz, K., & Ray, K. (2025). Trauma-informed or sensory-based practices in preschool settings: A scoping review. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 72(3), e70027. https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.70027Purvis, K. B., Cross, D. R., Dansereau, D. F., & Parris, S. R. (2013). Trust-based relational intervention (TBRI): A systemic approach to complex developmental trauma. Child & Youth Services, 34(4), 360–386. https://doi.org/10.1080/0145935X.2013.859906Smith, M. L. (2021). The connected therapist: Relating through the senses. Marti Smith Seminars.Williams, M. S., & Shellenberger, S. (1994). How does your engine run? TherapyWorks.

    Beyond “Won’t”: Trauma, Regulation, and Collaborative Care

  4. Sep 22

    The Confident EI SLP: Feeding, Coaching, and Real-Life Care with Margaryta Kuzmin

    Learn from Margaryta’s "C.O.N.F.I.D.E.N.T." EI SLP framework to support functional, collaborative, and family-centered intervention. Guest: Margaryta Kuzmin, MA, CCC-SLP, TSSLD-BE Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD Watch on YouTube In this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, is joined by Margaryta Kuzmin, MA, CCC-SLP, TSSLD-BE, a bilingual pediatric speech-language pathologist and early intervention provider, for a joyful and empowering discussion about the many hats SLPs wear in early intervention. From feeding and dysphagia to communication, caregiver coaching, and collaboration, this episode celebrates the meaningful, real-life work happening in homes and everyday routines. Michelle and Margaryta redefine what it means to be a “confident” EI SLP, reminding us that confidence is not about knowing everything. It is about trusting your foundation, staying curious, and showing up with intention. About the Guest: Margaryta Kuzmin is a bilingual speech-language pathologist based in New York City with over 15 years of experience working with infants, toddlers, and school-age children with complex communication, feeding, and developmental needs. She specializes in pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders, AAC, and working with medically complex populations. Show Notes: Contact Margaryta: IG: @kuzminslpLinkedInWebsite: kuzminslp.comCoursesFree Online AAC Boards Resources: American Board of Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders 2026 Summer Webinar SeriesFeeding MattersFamily Guided Routies Based InterventionHealthyChildren.orgIDDSIGo Team Go! Interprofessional Practice for Pediatric Feeding in the SchoolsGuide to Supporting Pediatric Feeding Disorders in SchoolsPediatric Feeding Disorder and the School-Based Speech-Language Pathologist: An Evidence-BasedUpdate for Clinical Practice Love Money: 1p36 Deletion Support & Awareness

    The Confident EI SLP: Feeding, Coaching, and Real-Life Care with Margaryta Kuzmin

  5. Sep 15

    Busting Concussion Myths: What SLPs Need to Know

    Unpack the myths, realities, and clinical considerations surrounding pediatric concussions with an interprofessional team from The University of Tulsa's Concussion Center. Guests: Laura Wilson, PhD, CCC-SLP, CBIST; Rachel Hildebrand, PhD, LAT/ATC, CBIS; and Jennifer Steward, PhD Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD Watch on YouTube In this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, is joined by an interprofessional team from The University of Tulsa's Concussion Center. Together, they explore common misconceptions about concussions, including how symptoms present differently across toddlers, children, and adolescents, and why recognizing these differences is critical for timely identification and care. The conversation also highlights important topics such as second impact syndrome, current best practices in concussion management, and the role of interprofessional collaboration in supporting recovery. About the Guest(s): Laura Wilson, PhD, CCC-SLP, CBIST, is an Associate Professor in Communication Sciences & Disorders at The University of Tulsa. She is a Co-Director of the Concussion Center and a Certified Brain Injury Specialist Trainer. Her clinical and research interest is acquired brain injuries, with a specific focus on concussion. Rachel Hildebrand, PhD, LAT/ATC, CBIS is a Clinical Associate Professor of Athletic Training at The University of Tulsa. She is the co-Director of the Concussion Center at The University of Tulsa. Her research has highly focused on interdisciplinary concussion management, specifically for those experiencing prolonged concussion recovery. Jennifer Steward, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and an Applied Associate Professor of Psychology at The University of Tulsa. She has been a member of the concussion team since the Concussion Center’s opening, and supervises advanced clinical psychology doctoral students in their work as part of the interdisciplinary team. Show Notes: University of Tulsa Concussion CenterHeads Up CDCHEADS UP to Schools: Online Concussion Training Pedsconcussion.comConcussioninsportgroup.comLove Money: Support The University of Tulsa

    Busting Concussion Myths: What SLPs Need to Know

  6. Sep 8

    Finding Your Voice: Advocacy and PFD in Schools with Mary Dooher

    Explore the realities of addressing dysphagia and pediatric feeding disorder in schools. Guest: Mary Dooher, MA, CCC-SLP, Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD Watch on YouTube In this episode of the First Bite podcast, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, sits down with Mary P. Dooher, MA, CCC-SLP, a passionate school-based clinician and advocate from Alaska, for a heartfelt and energizing conversation about supporting students with feeding and swallowing needs in the school setting. Drawing from her journey across medical and educational environments, Mary shares how her work in pediatric feeding and swallowing evolved into systems-level advocacy within her district, state, and national organizations. About the Guest: Mary P. Dooher, M.A., CCC-SLP, has been a school-based SLP in Wasilla, Alaska, for 15 years. She has experience in public schools, hospitals, SNFs, and home health settings. Mary is a strong advocate within her school district and the State of Alaska to increase awareness of/needs of students with dysphagia. She is an active member of her local union, MSEA, and the state association, NEA-Alaska. Show Notes: Feeding Matters PFD in Schools Go Team Go! Interprofessional Practice for Pediatric Feeding in the Schools ASHA Voices: Engaging With Teacher Unions and Education Associations in Schools

    Finding Your Voice: Advocacy and PFD in Schools with Mary Dooher

  7. Sep 1

    Beyond the Echo: Honoring Autistic Communication with Farwa Husain

    Practical strategies for supporting autistic communicators. Guest: Farwa Husain, MS, CCC-SLP Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD Watch on YouTube In this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, is joined by Farwa Husain, MA, CCC-SLP, bilingual speech-language pathologist, for a thoughtful conversation about supporting autistic individuals through relationship-based, neurodiversity-affirming care. Together, they discuss how echolalia can be understood as meaningful communication rather than a behavior to eliminate. Farwa shares practical strategies for supporting autistic communicators who use echolalia, emphasizing how caregiver coaching and everyday interactions can create rich opportunities for connection, language, and participation. About the Guest: Farwa Husain, bilingual SLP, is the Founder of First Phrases and Owner of One-on-One Speech Therapy. She specializes in relationship-based, neurodiversity-affirming care, with a clinical and educational focus on supporting echolalia. Farwa is an international presenter who provides professional development training for schools and organizations worldwide. Show Notes: Contact Farwa: IG: @firstphrasesofficialLinkedInwww.firstphrases.com Related Course: Autism Conference: Embracing Joy Through Practical Intervention Family Guided Routines Based Interventions Morris County Speech and Hearing Association

    Beyond the Echo: Honoring Autistic Communication with Farwa Husain

  8. Aug 25

    Culturally Responsive Practices Transform Outcomes with Samantha Dudding

    Gain actionable strategies to support more inclusive, culturally responsive, and family-centered practice. Guest: Samantha Dudding, MS, CCC-SLP Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD Watch on YouTube In this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, is joined by Samantha Dudding, MS, CCC-SLP, for a thoughtful conversation about how culturally responsive communication can promote more equitable outcomes in special education. Drawing on her clinical expertise and leadership experience, Samantha shares practical strategies for supporting culturally and linguistically diverse students and families while strengthening collaboration across educational teams. About the Guest: Samantha Dudding, M.S., CCC‑SLP, is a speech‑language pathologist and special education leader whose work centers on culturally responsive communication within school‑based special education processes. She is currently a Student Support Coordinator in a school district just outside of Washington, DC where she facilitates special education processes, supports multidisciplinary teams, and leads professional development focused on inclusive practices. Show Notes: Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theorySign up for the ASHFoundation's 7th Annual Virtual Walk/RunJoin the team "First Bite Fun Runners"

    Culturally Responsive Practices Transform Outcomes with Samantha Dudding
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About

First Bite is your go-to resource for all things pediatric speech therapy–covering pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders, lactation, AAC, early language acquisition, advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration. Designed to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, the podcast brings functional, evidence-based insights straight to clinicians serving little ones and their caregivers. Whether you’re a student, seasoned practitioner, researcher, or interprofessional partner, First Bite invites you to listen, learn, and grow alongside a supportive community. Gain the confidence to take whatever “first bite” comes next in your clinical practice–one heartfelt and tea-fueled conversation at a time. Hosted by Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP–bestselling author of "Chasing the Swallow: Truth, Science, and Hope for Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Disorders," joyful boy mom, and early intervention specialist–First Bite explores the latest research, clinical strategies, and lived experiences shaping pediatric speech therapy today. This is a Speech Therapy PD podcast, allowing you to earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for each episode. For select episodes, colleagues with their CLC can earn CERPs. Visit speechtherapypd.com to learn more. See Michelle's book at: amazon.com/Chasing-Swallow-Pediatric-Swallowing-Disorders/dp/B095WW2H5X

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