SLP Full Disclosure

AMN Healthcare
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Welcome to the SLP Full Disclosure Podcast, the show for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) seeking to enrich their skills and build connections within the supportive speech therapy community. With our inclusive platform that fosters exploration and growth, we delve into a variety of topics, from practical therapy techniques and technologies to early-intervention, travel therapy, teletherapy, clinical fellowship, and more. Join us as we navigate the diverse field of speech-language pathology, embracing full disclosure each episode.

  1. MAR 31

    Understanding Childhood Apraxia of Speech with Laura Baskall-Smith

    In episode 136, Michelle welcomes back Laura Smith, a speech-language pathologist who specializes in childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). Also known as the "SLP Mommy of Apraxia," Laura brings both clinical expertise and personal experience as a mother of a child with CAS. She breaks down exactly what apraxia is—a disconnect between the brain's planning and the mouth's movement—and why the diagnosis can often feel overwhelming for families. The conversation explores how to differentiate apraxia from other speech sound disorders using dynamic motor speech exams. Laura debunks common myths, such as the idea that a child cannot be diagnosed before age three, and shares critical red flags to look for during a parent intake case history. Listeners will also learn about evidence-based treatment strategies like DTTC, the importance of the principles of motor learning, and why ongoing continuing education is vital for speech-language pathologists. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Childhood Apraxia of Speech 00:28 – Welcoming Guest Laura Smith (SLP Mommy of Apraxia) 01:58 – Defining Apraxia: The Disconnect Between Brain and Mouth 03:18 – Why an Apraxia Diagnosis Can Be Scary for Parents 05:08 – Distinguishing Apraxia from Other Speech Sound Disorders 08:26 – The "ASHA 3" Core Characteristics of CAS 11:58 – Debunking the Age of Diagnosis Myth 15:10 – Key Red Flags to Look for in Early Case Histories 17:32 – Hidden Challenges of Apraxia in Daily Life 20:00 – Effective Therapy Techniques and DTTC Training 22:02 – Recommended Frequency for Apraxia Therapy 23:18 – Advice for Graduate Students and SLPs 26:02 – Conclusion and Upcoming Episode Plans   Resources Mentioned:Instagram:  Instagram: SLPMommyofAprazia TikTok:  @slpmommyofapraxia  Book: Overcoming Apraxia by Laura Smith on Amazon Free DTTC Training (Edythe Strand) Apraxia Kids Website: https://www.apraxia-kids.org/ (Features Edwin Maas's gentle introduction to motor learning) Therapy Materials: Bjorem Speech Sound Cues: https://www.bjoremspeech.com/ Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!    Website Instagram YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    29 min

  2. MAR 17

    Breaking Down Communication Barriers with Ner Chat

    In episode 135, Michelle welcomes Dylan Makani, co-founder and CEO of Ner Chat, to discuss how his company is revolutionizing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Inspired by a close friend who used an AAC device but struggled to stay in touch remotely, Dylan set out to bridge the gap in digital communication. He created tools that allow AAC users to connect seamlessly through mainstream messaging, moving beyond the limits of face-to-face interactions. Dylan shares the journey of developing Leaf, an iOS keyboard that integrates AAC symbols directly into everyday apps like text messaging and email. The conversation also dives into Glint, a groundbreaking platform designed for speech-language pathologists and educators.  Glint allows professionals to create highly customized, interactive visual supports in seconds, complete with Google Image integration, voice output, and simple sharing via QR codes. By streamlining the creation of visual materials, Ner Chat is saving SLPs countless hours and empowering complex learners across all environments. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Ner Chat and Guest Dylan Makani02:24 – The Inspiring Story Behind Ner Chat05:10 – Introducing Leaf: AAC in Everyday Messaging08:22 – The Difference Between Ner Chat, Leaf, and Glint09:03 – How Glint Simplifies Visual Support Creation11:24 – Seamless Google Image Integration in Glint13:08 – Sharing and Customizing Visual Boards with Audio16:29 – Partnering with AMN Healthcare and Elevate18:23 – Real-Life Success Stories with Glint23:37 – Dylan's Message to Families and Professionals: You Are Not Alone25:33 – Upcoming Demos and Conclusion About the Guest: Dylan Makani is the Co-Founder of Ner Chat, the company behind Glint, an AI-powered platform transforming how educators and therapists create visual supports. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with dual majors in Neuroscience and Medicine, Health & Society, and is currently an M1 at The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences.Dylan’s background spans neuroscience research, private equity, and healthcare investing, combined with personal experience in autism and assistive technology through his work with Best Buddies. His mission is to make communication supports faster, easier, and universally accessible for educators, families, and the students who rely on them. Follow Ner Chat: NerChat.com Instagram/Ner.Chat TikTok/Ner_Chat YouTube/Ner_Chat Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!    Website Instagram YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    28 min

  3. MAR 3

    Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part Two

    In the second part of this series, Michelle continues the discussion on the foundational skills toddlers need before they begin to talk. This episode builds on the previous one by exploring how play, imitation, and environment shape a child's path to verbal communication. Michelle offers practical strategies for parents and SLPs to encourage these skills, emphasizing that language development is a step-by-step process. Michelle explains the importance of functional toy play, motor imitation, and following simple directions. She provides actionable tips, such as limiting toys to reduce overwhelm and using the "Tell, Show, Help" method. The discussion also covers how to foster vocalizations, use gestures, and set up the environment to create communication opportunities—turning everyday moments into powerful language-learning experiences. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Part Two: Skills Before Words01:40 – How Children Learn Through Functional Play03:59 – Building Receptive Language Before Expressive Language06:07 – Motor Imitation and Its Role in Language08:15 – Following Simple Directions with "Tell, Show, Help"10:26 – Encouraging Vocalizations and Imitating Sounds14:21 – The Emergence of Gestures Before Words16:10 – Creating a Communication-Rich Environment20:24 – The Power of Extended Wait Time Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!    Website Instagram YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    23 min

  4. FEB 17

    Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part 1

    In this episode, Michelle kicks off a two-part series focusing on critical developmental skills that precede speech. While many parents and caregivers eagerly await a child’s first words, several foundational milestones must occur first to support successful communication. Michelle breaks down these essential skills, offering practical advice for parents, caregivers, and speech-language pathologists on how to spot them and why they matter. Michelle explores the importance of early interactions, such as reacting to the environment and responding to people. She explains how simple activities like playing with crinkly toys, listening to music, or engaging in "peekaboo" help build the cognitive framework for language. The discussion also covers the significance of turn-taking, attention span, and joint attention—skills that serve as the building blocks for future conversational ability.  Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Foundational Language Skills Series 01:53 – Reacting to Events in the Environment 03:40 – Responding to People and Developing Social Awareness 05:03 – The Importance of Turn-Taking in Early Communication 06:15 – Anticipating Events and Developing Object Permanence 07:35 – Developing Attention Span: Age-Appropriate Expectations 09:00 – Transitioning from Child-Led to Adult-Directed Play 10:21 – Shifting and Sharing Joint Attention 12:00 – The "Tell, Show, Help" Method for Caregivers 14:50 – The Impact of Screen Time on Early Development   Quick Notes Host: Michelle, Speech-Language Pathologist Key Concepts Discussed: Reacting to the Environment: Encouraging infants to use all senses (sight, sound, touch) to interact with their world.Social Responsiveness: Promoting eye contact, tracking, and listening to voices to establish two-way communication.Turn-Taking: Using games like peekaboo to teach the back-and-forth nature of conversation.Joint Attention: The ability to share focus on an object with another person, a critical precursor to vocabulary development."Tell, Show, Help": A strategy for teaching new skills by verbally explaining, demonstrating, and then physically assisting the child.Resources Mentioned: Child Yoga: A recommended activity to get children moving and ready to focus before seated tasks.Connect with Us: If you have questions about early childhood development or want to share your experiences, connect with us on Instagram @AMN_allied.Subscribe: Don't miss the next episode for Part 2 of this series on foundational language skills. Subscribe to SLP Full Disclosure on your favorite podcast platform. Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!    Website Instagram YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    17 min

  5. FEB 3

    Fluency, Anxiety, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Tim Mackesey

    Episode Summary In this episode, Michelle sits down with Tim Mackesey, a board-certified specialist in fluency disorders with over 33 years of experience. Tim brings a unique perspective to the conversation, as he is both a seasoned clinician and a person who stutters. Together, they explore the complexities of fluency disorders, moving beyond the mechanics of speech to address the deep emotional and psychological components of stuttering. Tim shares his personal journey, from negative experiences with speech therapy in childhood to finding his own path to confidence. He discusses his fascinating work as an expert witness for cases involving sudden onset stuttering following brain injury and details how he integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into his practice to help clients manage social anxiety.  Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Tim Mackesey and Fluency Disorders 01:59 – The Role of an Expert Witness in Sudden Onset Stuttering Cases 03:30 – Tim’s Personal Journey: From "Stutterer" to Person Who Stutters 09:57 – The Anxiety of Stuttering in Professional Settings 11:42 – A Shift in Perspective: The Impact of Dean Williams 17:16 – Stuttering in High-Stakes Professions: Police, Pilots, and Medical Students 22:07 – Therapy Approaches: Direct Models for Preschoolers vs. CBT for Adults 26:22 – The Developmental Impact of Stuttering at Age Seven 30:15 – Timeline Therapy: Addressing Past Trauma and Reframing Memories 33:26 – Practical Techniques: Using Mind Lines and Conversational Reframing 37:00 – Essential Resources for SLPs: Where to Start with Fluency   Quick Notes Guest: Tim Mackesey, Speech-Language Pathologist and Board-Certified Specialist in Fluency Disorders. Resources Mentioned: Stuttering Foundation of America: Tim recommends their "Pioneer" videos as a foundational resource for SLPs.The Michael Palin Centre for Stammering (London): A great source for solution-focused therapy and counseling videos.Book: Mind Lines (for conversational reframing).Website:stutteringadvice.com (Tim's educational modules).Connect with Us: We love hearing from our listeners! If you have questions about fluency or want to share your own experiences with CBT in therapy, connect with us on Instagram @AMN_allied. Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!    Website Instagram YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    40 min

  6. JAN 20

    A Sneak Peek into 2026!

    Episode Summary In the first episode of 2026, Michelle gives a special preview of the exciting guests and topics lined up for SLP Full Disclosure in the coming months. From groundbreaking AAC technology and fluency therapy to the worlds of voice coaching and pediatric feeding, this season is packed with diverse expertise. Listen in as Michelle shares how she discovers incredible SLPs on social media and introduces the specialists who will be joining the show. You'll hear about upcoming discussions on everything from being a traveling SLP and navigating your clinical fellowship year to the complexities of dysphagia and apraxia. Get ready for a year of fun, learning, and insightful conversations with leaders and innovators in the field of speech-language pathology. Chapters: 00:00 - Happy New Year & A Look Ahead at 2026 01:51 - Dylan McConney & the Nerd Chat AAC Platform 03:41 - Tim McKenzie on Fluency and Building Client Confidence 04:45 - Maurice Goodwin: A Look into Voice Coaching 06:19 - Kaylee on Pediatric Feeding in the NICU 07:58 - Brandon, the Traveling SLP 09:09 - George Barnes on Dysphagia and Being an Expert Witness 10:24 - Recruiter Christy Yankovic on Building Clinician Relationships 11:17 - Michelle's Two-Part Series on Early Intervention 12:11 - Laura Smith Returns to Discuss Apraxia 13:25 - Claudia Berger on Traveling During Your CFY 15:48 - The Future of AI in Speech Therapy Quick Notes: Upcoming Guests: Stay tuned for episodes featuring Dylan McConney (Nerd Chat), Tim McKenzie (fluency), Maurice Goodwin (voice), Kaylee (pediatric feeding), Brandon (travel SLP), George Barnes (dysphagia), Christy Yankovic (recruiting), Laura Smith (apraxia), Claudia Berger (travel CFY), and Israel Montano (SLP AI Tools). Connect with Us: Are you an SLP creating content on social media? Michelle is always looking for new guests! Connect with us on TikTok @SLPFullDisclosure. Share Your Experience: If you are using AI in your therapy sessions or workflow, we want to hear from you. Send us a comment and let us know how you're incorporating it into your practice. Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!    Website Instagram YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    20 min

  7. 12/09/2025

    ASHA 2025 Convention Recap

    Episode Summary In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, Michelle shares an exciting recap of the ASHA 2025 Convention in Washington, D.C. Celebrating ASHA's centennial anniversary, this year's convention was a massive gathering of nearly 15,000 speech-language pathologists, graduate students, and exhibitors from around the world. Listen in as Michelle discusses the incredible energy at the AMN Healthcare booth, the surprising prevalence of AI in therapy discussions, and the valuable connections made with fellow professionals. She also shares personal highlights, including finally meeting her recruiter of five years and attending an inspiring session with Abby from "Love on the Spectrum." Whether you attended the convention or are curious about the latest in the SLP world, this episode covers the key takeaways, professional opportunities, and what to look forward to at ASHA 2026. Chapters: 00:00 - ASHA 2025 Recap 01:41 - AMN Healthcare at ASHA 03:11 - AI in Therapy 03:56 – Debunking Myths About Your Clinical Fellowship Year 04:43 - Inspiring Sessions ft. Abby from "Love on the Spectrum" 05:20 – The Joy of Meeting Podcast Guests and Colleagues in Person Quick Notes: ASHA 2026 Convention: Mark your calendars for next year's event in Indianapolis, Indiana.AMN Healthcare Giveaway: Don't miss your chance to win a $500 ASHA registration gift certificate and a $1,000 travel voucher for ASHA 2026. [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/social/asha-giveaway/] Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!    Website Instagram YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    7 min

  8. 11/25/2025

    From Texas to Cabo: A Global Perspective on Cleft Palate Care with Regina Ramone

    In this episode, we're joined by Regina Ramone, a Speech Language Pathologist who brings a unique perspective from her work in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Regina shares her journey from Texas to directing a clinic in Mexico, focusing on the critical care for children with cleft lip and palate.  She discusses the significant differences in speech pathology services, early intervention, and family support between the U.S. and Mexico. This conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of providing multidisciplinary care in an area where speech therapy is still an emerging profession and resources can be scarce. Keywords: speech pathology, cleft lip, cleft palate, early intervention, international SLP, bilingual SLP, pediatric therapy, medical SLP, multidisciplinary team, global healthcare Chapters 00:00 - A Look at Speech Pathology in Mexico 03:30 - Regina's Journey to Cleft Palate Specialization 04:54 - Structural vs. Functional Therapy 06:26 - The Process and Timing of Surgical Intervention 09:23 - Gaps in Family Support and Follow-Up Care 10:51 - Building a Multidisciplinary Care Team 12:39 - The Biggest Misconception About Cleft Palate Care 21:13 - Serving the Community in Southern Baja California 23:43 - A New Profession in Mexico 36:30 - Recommended Resources for SLPs Guest Bio Regina Ramone is a speech language pathologist who grew up in Del Rio, Texas. She earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Texas at Austin with a focus on serving bilingual populations. With a background in early childhood intervention and medical settings, Regina is now the director of Communicable in Los Cabos, Mexico. She collaborates with local foundations to provide essential care for children with cleft lip and palate. Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!   Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!    Website Instagram YouTube Apple Podcasts Spotify Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    39 min
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4.8
out of 5
40 Ratings

About

Welcome to the SLP Full Disclosure Podcast, the show for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) seeking to enrich their skills and build connections within the supportive speech therapy community. With our inclusive platform that fosters exploration and growth, we delve into a variety of topics, from practical therapy techniques and technologies to early-intervention, travel therapy, teletherapy, clinical fellowship, and more. Join us as we navigate the diverse field of speech-language pathology, embracing full disclosure each episode.

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