Speech Uncensored: A Speech Pathology Podcast: Recent Episodes
Leigh Ann Porter, MA, CCC-SLP
The Speech Uncensored Podcast is your one-stop shop to dig into the world of medical Speech and Language Pathology. We unpack therapy techniques, critique assessment protocols, and discuss resources to enhance your practice. You’ll hear from passionate SLPs in the field, eager to share their knowledge and experience. We also sit down with neurologists, radiologists, ENTs, rehab physicians, patients, and caregivers. Check out www.speechuncensored.com for the show notes and discussion guides.
Hilary and Steve join Leigh Ann on the podcast to discuss the development of the MedConcerns app to help healthcare providers and families overcome the challenges of understanding and meeting the medical needs and concerns of people with aphasia. The app creators share about the healthcare inequality that exists for people with aphasia due to lack of widespread use of effective communication supports, and a lack of training for healthcare providers on meeting unique communication needs. They discuss how this app was designed to increase access to healthcare for people with aphasia, while also reducing the communication challenge for healthcare providers. People with aphasia have a right to equal access to healthcare, and can communicate with the right supports. The MedConcerns app embeds communication supports, making patient-provider communication easier no matter the level of training. Check out the show notes at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/165
Eating and drinking brings pleasure to most; however, dementia can bring about significant changes in one’s communication, cognition, sensation, appetite and ability to eat and drink. When dysphagia and dementia co-occur, speech-language pathologists play a vital role on the interdisciplinary team and should be a cornerstone in care until end of life in this population. This episode focuses the discussion on mealtime modifications to enhance nutrition, hydration and quality of life for these individuals.
Treat the individual, not the diagnosis!
Dementia looks different for each person, and when eating challenges present, viewing the whole picture is crucial to determine any barriers present that may be impacting their nutrition, hydration and quality of life.
Check out show notes at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/164
Dr Cath Gregory chats about the latest evidence in Functional Neurological Disorders and the speech-language pathologist’s role when working with people with Functional Neurological Communication and Swallowing Disorders.
Key Takeaway: (1-2 sentences of the main theme.)
Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a problem with the ‘software’ of the brain that can occur across the lifespan. No longer classed as ‘psychogenic’, this disorder is now known to follow a biopsychosocial model of illness. It is essential that a positive diagnosis, rather than a diagnosis of exclusion, occurs. Clear education about the disorder and the use of distraction to help access more autonomic pathways is the current consensus treatment for communication and swallowing disorders. A multidisciplinary approach is always required for people with more complex needs. Check out the show notes on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/163
Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) are a powerful assessment and outcome measurement tool in a person-centered approach - but many SLPs are not yet using this tool. Leigh Ann and Sarah talk about how PROMs have been transformative in their clinical practice - and also how they’ve navigated conversations with colleagues who don’t think PROMs are part of best practice. PROMs provide SLPs a tool to measure all of the ways a person has been positively impacted through speech therapy. There are tons of resources to support use of PROMs, including research articles and Medicare standards. Check out the show notes for Sarah's references and resources located at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/162
Carolyn and Leigh Ann catch up about outpatient life and then Carolyn deep-dives into a day in the life of a SLP working in an Outpatient Neuro setting, treating complex dysphagia associated with various diagnoses including Head and Neck Cancer, Lung Transplant Recipients. Carolyn has carved out an exciting specialty in outpatient and demonstrates how there's always opportunities for growth as clinicians through various avenues! Check out Carolyn's fantastic resources in the show notes hosted at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/161
As SLPs, we need to advocate for our patients even when it’s hard. Irine Chacko joins Leigh Ann on the podcast to describe her experience during COVID-19 that changed her mindset and confidence in advocating and giving a voice to her patients. Irine was selected as the SLP for an acute rehab pilot program initiated at her hospital during COVID-19. Sixteen medically fragile COVID-19 patients between the ages of 40-70 joined the newly established unit from her hospital and neighboring hospitals. All the patients were on the ventilator with tracheostomy and PEG. These were patients in acute care for months and not able to be weaned off and/or did not have the adequate support to do so. By discharge from the pilot program, all patients were off of COVID precautions, alert and oriented, and on a PO diet. This experience taught her to find her voice even when it’s difficult. Check out the show notes for Irine's slide deck and contact info at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/160
Ainsley Martin joins Leigh Ann on the podcast to discuss grad students and dysphagia preparedness. The majority of graduates from speech pathology graduate programs do not feel they are adequately prepared to manage dysphagia. This is often as a result of lack of clinical experience, limited educational and clinical instruction, and questionable supervision quality. Novel approaches to dysphagia education at the graduate level such as incorporating problem-based learning, providing opportunities for interprofessional education, the implementation of hands-on dysphagia labs, and partnering with clinicians in the community can help to make graduate students more competent and confident in dysphagia management. Check out Ainsley's extensive resource list in the show notes at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/159
Brooke joins Leigh Ann on the podcast to discuss the role of lymphedema in acute and chronic issues faced by people with head and neck cancer. Topics include causation, prevalence, identification, and the role of the speech pathologist. Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive disease that is highly prevalent in people with head and neck cancer. Lymphedema has the potential to impact swallow function, breathing, communication, and more. Be sure to check out the show notes at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/158
Hannah and Leigh Ann discuss the bad rap SNFs get. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) often have a negative stereotype and are considered a less prestigious setting of the Med SLP continuum of care. This artificial hierarchy of Med SLP practice limits our potential to provide high quality care in these settings if we feed into stereotypes. Just like any other Med SLP setting, there are challenges and great opportunities with plenty of room to practice at the top of your scope and provide high quality and evidenced based SLP intervention in a SNF. Hannah shares the story of how she has achieved career goals and advanced her practice skillset while working in SNFs - including starting an in-house FEES protocol and obtaining her BCS-S. Check out the show notes for more information and resources at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/157
What does it mean to provide care in diverse spaces? Ingrid and Leigh Ann discuss what is possible for achieving outcomes in spaces not researched. Ingrid discusses the ‘how to’ of patient centered care while recognizing the limitations of the internal research. The #1 lesson is understanding that it’s ok to be an expert that continues to learn. Check out the show notes at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/156
Dr. Allison Hilger joins Leigh Ann to talk about the origin of the Colorado Motor Speech Framework and how to use it in clinical practice. Dr. Hilger also discusses current clinical issues in motor speech and thoughts on treatment goals. The CO Motor Speech Framework can be used to guide your observations during motor speech assessment and to obtain evidence for differential diagnosis. Motor speech disorder diagnosis is important for confirming current diagnoses or providing evidence for investigating other diagnoses. SLPs can diagnose Motor Speech Disorders but not the neurological area indicated; instead, we can say that the speech is characteristic of deficits in certain neural regions. This information is important to include to inform the neurological team. Visit https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/155 to get your free copy of the Colorado Motor Speech Framework!
In this episode, we explore the concept of staging in dementia using scales such as the Global Deterioration Scale, which helps guide our understanding of disease progression. Discover how speech-language pathologists play a vital role in providing support and implementing effective communication strategies while ensuring appropriate goals and documentation. After all, providing speech therapy services for individuals with dementia shouldn’t be scary. Check out the show notes on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/154 for more resources and tools!
Allison discusses the importance of person-centered program development for folks with acquired brain injury, and empowering all clinicians to work on developing and implementing programs - it’s not just for administrators and “seasoned” clinicians! On-the-ground and ‘newer’ clinicians can do it too! Identify a gap, make a plan and work on filling it with some person-centered programs. Links, resources, and more info located at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/153
This episode is about empathy in uncomfortable situations (e.g. when colleagues challenge your practice, patients get angry with your recommendations, doctors/nurses push back). We will discuss how stepping out of your own experience and expertise and putting energy into understanding the experience, anger, and frustration of others can be a powerful tool towards mutual growth, even if it’s the most uncomfortable part of your job. Check out the great resources at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/152
My guest, Stephanie Johnson, wants SLPs, future SLPs, and basically everyone to know that the end matters! Our field is uniquely positioned to advocate and support a new approach to end of life care. Communication is a key part of end of life planning. From comprehension and health literacy to expressing goals of care, connecting with loved ones, and enjoying food- SLPs can assist in all aspects. Death positivity and end of life care planning is actually life affirming. It’s a focus on what matters, what we want, how we want to spend our time and energy. It’s about living… And dying. Dig deeper with the resources provided at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/151
Remember that we’re all humans before we’re therapists. This is not only our cue to listen and counsel as appropriate, but our reminder to ask the patient how they’re doing before asking them orientation questions. This extends into every area of our care. Our jobs don’t stop at the end of our session. Learn more at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/150
One area my guest, Tyler Roman feels speech therapy sometimes struggles is fitting into the IPR puzzle. Many patients want to focus on motor recovery and are not yet experiencing difficulties in daily tasks they were completing prior to their hospitalization. Many times CEUs/blog posts focus on the acute setting or functional cognition with home health/outpatient focus. Tyler recommends talking to your PT/OT counterparts and see where breakdowns in ADL/IADLs are occurring during therapy. Also, adapt “traditional” therapies to incorporate feedback from teammates to address breakdowns. Check out additional resources at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/149
Buckle up for a wild ride on this week's conversation regarding access to education, tools, resources for speech and language pathologists. Julie is also interested in how this topic connects with why Leigh Ann took a break from podcasting for 9 months. Then we circle back to how paywalls impact who gets access resulting in disparities. Join us on a chaos-driven conversation about barriers to continuing education. Great resources in the show notes on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/148
Rinki wants you to know that your “one thing” may constantly change - as you, your interests, skills, and practices evolve with time. You can work towards finding and achieving your one thing with S.M.A.R.T. goal setting, focusing on one project at a time, pursuing things that feel authentic to you and align with your values, trusting your gut, and doing everything you do with grit and a growth mindset. Discovering and refining your one thing could be a lifelong process. It’s okay for everyone’s journey to look different. Success is not linear. It is sequential and exponential. Let’s continue to work towards it, one thing at a time! Dig deeper in resources provided at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/147
When asked what the hardest part of caring for an individual with dementia, many caregivers will respond with some aspect of an activity of daily living (ADL). Many of the problems faced during these ADLs are rooted in the patient’s inability to communicate. Too many times we use the excuse of "I'm just a SLP" when issues about toileting, showering, or dressing come up. However, as experts in communication we need to use our skills during these very important tasks! Check out the great resources to dig deeper in this topic at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/146
The knowledge and hands-on experience you gain in graduate school is invaluable, and it is important to have a strong academic and clinical foundation as you enter the workforce. However, textbook definitions of communication disorders are not enough to provide meaningful, patient specific therapy. By incorporating techniques such as ethnographic interviewing and patient-centered care and utilizing patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), we can discover that our patients are more than (and don’t often fit) the textbook definition. You’re going to learn so much in graduate school, but our patients aren’t textbook. They will, however, be the ones who teach you the most. Show notes with lots of awesome resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/145
As a specialist we enter a team with our own agenda and expertise related to our field. Most speech-language pathologists find themselves on a team of other specialists and family members who bring their own agenda and expertise to the table. In order to collaborate effectively as a team we must take the perspective, or step into another person’s point of view, of the other team members. Considering multiple perspectives facilitates mutual goal setting and intervention related to an individual’s needs. Check out the show notes for access to more resources! https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/144
Childhood cancer patients are surviving longer that ever before but continue to experience chronic illness and life-altering deficits from their cancer and it’s treatment. We have to shift our focus from just helping these patients survive to helping patients thrive after cancer. Survivorship has unique implications for speech-language pathologists. Check out what Kristin has to say on this topic and be sure to look into the resources provided on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/143
As we learn, mistakes are expected. However, as SLPs in-training, we are also expected to maintain professional communication and be open to critique. Learning how to be wrong in the right way can help build your confidence while allowing you to develop professionally. It can be hard to be wrong, especially when learning. But, being wrong in the right way can preserve your confidence and give you space to develop professionally. Check out additional resources at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/142
Successful clinicians working in healthcare settings possess more than just clinical knowledge and expertise; they also excel at Active Listening. Composed of a series of verbal and non-verbal actions, Active Listening is a key communication behavior that reflects engagement, establishes trust, and conveys respect and understanding. Active listening skills are essential tools for therapist-patient interactions but are also invaluable for a wide variety of professional and personal communication interactions. Check out additional resources to learn more at speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/141
Sarah Baar is guest hosting this episode of the Speech Uncensored Podcast and her guest is Michelle Bourgeois! Meaningful speech therapy for dementia is possible! Using a person-centered philosophy is supported by research. Sarah and Michelle dive into assessment, goals, and treatment with this approach. Check out https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/140 to access an incredible list of links and resources, the discussion guide, and more!
Rinki joins Leigh Ann to chat about education vs expertise, advocacy, and impact. Check out https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/139 for more info!
Do you as a clinician ever feel like you’re recommending dysphagia diets and exercises, not knowing if you’re taking the best therapeutic approach for your patients? Does your workplace give pushback when you recommend dysphagia instrumental assessments? Allie and George are here to provide you with a step by step guide on how to get access to mobile FEES services in your clinical setting. After all, you can’t fix what you can’t see! Check out https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/138 to access resources provided by Allie and George, the discussion guide for your very own Table Talk experience, and more!
Isabel Ramati joins Leigh Ann this week to discuss our role and responsibilities when conducting outpatient video swallow studies (may apply to FEES as well), how to obtain all relevant information needed for a comprehensive assessment, and factors to consider when making recommendations. Visit https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/137 to access resources, the discussion guide, and more tools for your SLP practice.
Kara discusses her experience as a SLP graduate student turned patient, and how that experience shaped her SLP career. She talks about how she navigated graduate school with a brain injury, what helped her recovery the most, and how she now uses that experience to provide holistic and functional treatment for her patients. Visit https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/136 to access the show notes for resources mentioned in the episode and the Discussion Guide for your Uncensored Table Talks!
Wes and Finn lay out some guidance on inclusion of queer and trans people in the medical field of speech-language pathology. In this episode they define what it means to be transgender and non-binary, share research on discrimination within healthcare, and provide steps you can take to incorporate LGBTQ+ inclusion in your practice. Visit https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/135 for access to the show notes, resources, and the discussion guide for your Table Talks!
Lauren describes the origins of her mentorship program, Heart 2 Heart. We take a deep dive into the goals of mentorship, the benefits, and the impact Heart 2 Heart is having on fostering confident and passionate SLPs. Visit https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/134 to access the discussion guide and other links in the show notes.
Shezena Shahid joins Leigh Ann to reflect on her top missteps as a new graduate entering the world of medical speech pathology after eight years of practice and ongoing growth. By sharing Shezena's learning experiences, she hopes to better prepare clinicians to avoid similar errors and navigate medical settings with confidence. Visit https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/133 to access the Discussion Guide and additional resources in the show notes.
This episode provides a foundation to support clinicians endeavoring to establish influence to improve patient outcomes, facilitate dynamic multidisciplinary teamwork, and improve career trajectory. Clinicians seeking to transition to leadership or those who are already in authoritative positions may equally benefit from this talk. https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/132
As empathic professionals, SLPs create relationships with their clients. When clients face chronic communication conditions, it is important for clinicians to know when to part ways even when ongoing progress is being made. This episode will include a discussion about the reality of making this process possible. https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/131
Everyone who works in a healthcare field is motivated and inspired by the idea of helping others, and many of us are also interested in helping folks outside of our borders and outside of our cultures. But it can be challenging to identify what “helping” really means. Are you really helping, or does it just FEEL like you’re helping? After a decade of work with a rehabilitation center and special needs school in Eastern Congo, this talk will review questions that ethical SLP’s need to ask ourselves before getting involved in international practice in “developing” or “majority world” countries. Visit https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/130 for links to resources and the discussion guide for your Table Talk!
In this Episode, Roz discusses mental health tips for caregivers during COVID-19. She stresses the importance of adequate sleep, self care, and understanding the documentation you need as a caregiver (i.e. advanced directives). Each of these factors contribute to mental health and Roz will give tips on how to maintain and prepare for each. Access the show notes with links to resources discussed in this episode along with the discussion guide to hold Table Talks at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/129
This week’s episode is a little different - Melissa interviews Leigh Ann on all things related to supervising graduate students during their clinical practicum. Back in the day, Melissa was Leigh Ann’s graduate student. And now, Melissa is preparing to take on her first graduate student. Check out the great resources Melissa complied for supervision and the discussion guide at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/128
So you want to work in the neonatal intensive care unit? You may be surprised to know that it is not all sunshine and rainbows. Given the interdisciplinary nature of the NICU, the speech-language pathologist must navigate differing opinions on infant feeding through rapport building, establishing respect, and demonstrating the highest levels of professional competency. Visit the show notes for additional resources and the discussion guide at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/127
We’re diving into the benefits of state associations with my guests, Meredith Harold and Susie Ternes. In the episode, you’ll learn about the roles Meredith and Susie play in the Kansas Speech and Hearing Association. If you’ve ever wondered what the purpose of state associations are, why they exist, and if it’s worth the dues, then I hope you’ll check out this episode. For access to links, resources, and the discussion guide, visit the show notes at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/126
Dana M. Bryant joins Leigh Ann Porter on the podcast to discuss use of the Mindful Attention and Awareness Scale (MAAS) in her clinical care of patients with acquired brain injury (ABI) / traumatic brain injury (TBI). Dana explores the purpose and benefits of the scale, relevant research involving it, and implications of its use with patients who have experienced ABI/TBI. Visit the show notes for additional resources, articles, and the discussion guide at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/125
Heidi Spain joins Leigh Ann Porter this week to discuss the impact of vision on cognitive processes, the relationship between the vestibular system and vision, and how visual processing therapy addresses timing deficits.Visit the show notes for links, resources, and the discussion guide at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/124
Rachel Archambault speaks about her dive into Trauma-Informed care as an SLP and how the main principles of T.I.C (trustworthiness, safety, empowerment, choice, & collaboration) can be applied to the medical speech setting and beyond. Visit the show notes for links, resources, and the discussion guide at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/123
Jeff, a person with aphasia, and Melissa, his SLP discuss Jeff’s experience with his stroke and navigating the speech therapy world. Jeff discussed the top things he wished SLPs knew. We chat about the things that were helpful and the things that were not. Visit the show notes for additional resources mentioned in today's episode and the discussion guide: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/122
How many patients have you had that complain of “brain fog”? (If you work with TBI, probably countless!) This episode introduces speech pathologists to the common symptom of cognitive fatigue after brain injuries. Leigh Ann and guest, Katie Brown, discuss the basics of cognitive fatigue, assessment using patient-reported outcome measures, and how SLPs can help their patients to conserve and manage their cognitive energy in order to promote self-efficacy and improve quality of life. Visit the show notes for additional helpful resources and the discussion guide: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/121
Join Jordan Hazelwood, Rebecca Brown, and Leigh Ann Porter as they discuss ASHA Special Interest Groups (SIGs). SIGs provide a pathway to support networking, professional development, and advocacy for students, clinicians, and researchers. By getting involved in a SIG, professionals can mutually benefit from affiliation throughout their career. Visit the show notes for additional resources and the discussion guide: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/120
Michelle discusses etiologies, hardware, medication side effects, surgery complications, evaluation, and treatment for patients with dysphagia and cervical spinal cord injury.
Check out the show notes at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/119
Kate joins Leigh Ann to unpack the role of podcasts as vehicles to deliver continuing education for busy SLPs. Kate covers inside information on the process of going from providing CMHs to ASHA CEUs for her podcast, SLPNerdcast, and the importance of getting exposed to continuing education outside of our field. Our conversation veers into soapbox territory (the best) and we discuss getting outside of our comfort zones, and the need for an increase in formal mentorship programs for our field. Listen in and catch the “informally informative” vibes.
Check out the show notes at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/118 for links to the discussion guide and more!
Agraphia is an acquired impairment of writing that can manifest in a variety of writing challenges, ranging anywhere from writing single letters to writing text-length passages. In this talk, listeners will be introduced to a variety of assessment tools and treatment approaches they may consider using when working with clients with agraphia.
Alexia is an acquired impairment of reading that can manifest in a variety of reading challenges, ranging anywhere from identifying single letters to reading text-length passages. In this talk, listeners will be introduced to a variety of assessment tools and treatment approaches they may consider using when working with clients with alexia.
This episode will provide a description of hyperfunctional voicing and its correlates, elements of voice evaluation and how to use that information to guide your intervention, and will provide examples of the various types of therapy available.
In this course, the speech-language pathologist’s role in supporting clients’ sexual and intimate communication is discussed. The reasons for difficulty in having conversations about sexuality are presented. Example cases where clients may benefit from SLP services to address intimacy and sexual communication are provided.
This course addresses the work of providing culturally responsive resources to support the linguistic and cultural needs of children and adolescents of the Navajo Nation. Born out of the unique challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Books for Diné Bikéyah is a community intervention project that provides books by Diné authors to Diné children.
This course explores the challenges and uncertainties that graduate students and clinical fellows have encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic. We will explore the value of self-advocacy in relation to PPE, the negotiation of pay and benefits, as well as exploring new educational experiences that will effectively help build confidence in our ability as new clinicians to treat patients in medical settings in the midst of this worldwide health crisis.
Do you feel confident in the evaluation and treatment of pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders? Whether you’re just starting out or if you’ve been seeing feeding and swallowing clients for years this course will provide you the necessary tools to effectively complete an evaluation and deliver efficient and appropriate treatment methods. This course will review different tools and methods based on evidence-based research to serve pediatric feeding and swallowing clients.
Have you had a pediatric patient with swallowing difficulties and during the evaluation they present with multiple diagnoses and symptoms? Starting with anatomy and physiology of the swallowing mechanism in pediatric patients (infants, toddlers, and children), this course prepares you to identify red flags and complete differential diagnosis of complex and multifaceted presentations of pediatric dysphagia.
While salary negotiation practices vary and are multifactorial, not advocating for a higher income can produce long-term financial barriers and perpetuate harmful infrastructures. Participants in this course will learn more about common salary negotiation pitfalls and why self-advocacy is an essential part of any interview process. Concrete tools and approaches to negotiation will be discussed.
This course will discuss the job functions of the SLP in a skilled nursing facility as a member of the rehab team, the Interdisciplinary team, staff educator, and advocate. Additionally, common misconceptions of working in long term care will be addressed with a review of the benefits. For example, flexibility, autonomy in the facility, and building your own caseload are a few of the benefits discussed.
This course introduces an aphasia treatment that uses reading and verbally summarizing text to improve discourse. Attentive Reading Constrained Summarization (ARCS) improves informativeness, efficiency, and topic maintenance in conversation.
Complementary health approaches (CHAs) can expand a provider’s ability to address mental health across patient populations. Because CHAs vary in effectiveness and reliability, this course will address some typical pitfalls and provide tips to discern effective CHAs from lesser ones.
This course will discuss the impact of inhalation injury on dysphagia from the perspective of a speech language pathologist. The evaluation of inhalation injuries and the treatment of hypertrophic scars in the acute stages of recovery will be covered.
Guest: Katarina Haley, PhD, CCC-SLP - This course aimed to introduce participants to the FOURC model (Four Cs - choose, create, collaborate, complete). FOURC was created for clinical implementation and involved established outpatient clinics in the research behind the publication. The research behind the model was explained, along with key features and the implementation of the model in clinical practice.
Join Marie and Leigh Ann as they talk all things CBIS: Certified Brain Injury Specialist. Marie has completed the process of becoming credentialed and shares her journey.
Check out the show notes at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/103
Guest: Brittany Ferri | MS, OTR/L, CPRP - The senses play a large part in how individuals perceive the world, but also how they react to it. If your patients do not have a way to regulate this sensory input, they will struggle to attend to any type of treatment you provide. Learn the basics of each sensory system and how to indirectly improve patients’ motivation, enhance learning, and increase their skill carryover to the outside world.
Today’s episode features Dr. Amanda Stead on the topic of end of life care and the Speech Language Pathologist. I am so pleased to share the audio from the two hour live ASHA CEU with SpeechTherapyPD.com. If you missed the live event, you can access the video recording (plus slideshow) with your SpeechTherapyPD.com basic or premium membership. Today’s episode is the second half of a two hour CEU. n this episode, Dr. Stead discusses advanced directives and challenges related to end of life care. She answers questions from the CEU participants and advocates for involvement in hospice and palliative care patients. Be sure to check out the show notes on speechuncensored.com to access the resources Amanda recommendends.
https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e51and52
Today’s episode features Dr. Amanda Stead on the topic of end of life care and the Speech Language Pathologist. I am so pleased to share the audio from the two hour live ASHA CEU with SpeechTherapyPD.com. If you missed the live event, you can access the video recording (plus slideshow) with your SpeechTherapyPD.com basic or premium membership. Today’s episode is the first half of a two hour CEU. In this episode, Dr. Stead discusses the importance of understanding grief and using counseling skills. She unpacks what to expect when working with those actively grieving and provides conversation starters and scripts that help you navigate difficult conversations. You’re going to want to have a pen and piece of paper nearby to take notes. It’s really good, ya’ll.
Check out the links and resources in the show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e51and52
There are many approaches to being an effective therapist when treating specialized populations. “Equipping Your Therapy Sessions: Parkinson’s and What You Should Know” outlines novelties in evaluating and treating Parkinson’s disease (PD) that will increase your confidence and understanding of the Parkinson’s Disease (PD) population. During this episode, Hannah presents case studies with clinical decision making and online tools for patients and SLPs. With consideration for the research associated with PD, you will be equipped to develop therapy sessions for your patients with Parkinson’s and walk away with resources that your patients can use immediately.
Show notes are available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e49and50
There are many approaches to being an effective therapist when treating specialized populations. “Equipping Your Therapy Sessions: Parkinson’s and What You Should Know” outlines novelties in evaluating and treating Parkinson’s disease (PD) that will increase your confidence and understanding of the Parkinson’s Disease (PD) population. During this episode, Hannah will pinpoint crucial questions to address during evaluation, and unique considerations for treatment. With consideration for the research associated with PD, you will be equipped to develop therapy sessions for your patients with Parkinson’s and walk away with resources that your patients can use immediately.
Show notes are available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e49and50
Today’s episode is the second half of a two hour live ASHA CEU with Elizabeth Wikane on the topic of dysphagia goals. In this episode, Elizabeth examines the difference between long-term and short-term goals, the problem with goal banks, and considering exercise principles when creating individualized treatment plans.
Show notes with resources available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e47and48
Concise and well-constructed goals serve an avenue to communicating the objectives of treatment as well as an indication of skills and prognosis. This episode with Elizabeth Wikane discusses the elements of swallowing disorders assessment in the consideration of treatment planning and goal setting. Topics include (but are not limited to) (1) components of a dysphagia evaluation, (2) purpose of goal setting, (3) components of a skilled treatment goal, and (4) examples of dysphagia goals across settings. Show notes with resources available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e47and48
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/speech-uncensored/message
What a treat to sit down with Mattie Murrey-Tegels to talk about her passion on this week’s episode on the podcast. Mattie brings a varied tapestry of complimentary skills to her podcast, website, and membership program supporting new clinicians as they navigate the intricacies of the workplace. It’s clear Mattie has a passion for this work and I am so glad she is stepping up the plate to ensure the next generation of SLPs is confident, competent, and capable. Check out the show notes at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e46
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/speech-uncensored/message
Racism, discrimination, and bias have recently become topics at the forefront of conversations across the country. Inevitably, these conversations have also reached the field of Speech-Language Pathology. From ASHA’s position statement on racism, multiple petitions and calls-to-action for anti-racist clinical practice and academia, ASHA and NSSLHA’s virtual listening sessions on race in CSD, and NBASLH Talks 4-part series, there is a much-needed and timely movement gaining momentum at the national, state, and local levels to improve diversity, inclusion, and anti-racist efforts.
This two-part episode will discuss some of the racial barriers and implicit/explicit biases that have played a role in the homogenous racial and ethnic make-up of our field. Additionally, this episode will brainstorm ways to overcome these barriers in the future, and identify simple steps that every person can take to move towards anti-racist and culturally competent clinical practice.
Show notes and links: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e45
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/speech-uncensored/message
Racism, discrimination, and bias have recently become topics at the forefront of conversations across the country. Inevitably, these conversations have also reached the field of Speech-Language Pathology. From ASHA’s position statement on racism, multiple petitions and calls-to-action for anti-racist clinical practice and academia, ASHA and NSSLHA’s virtual listening sessions on race in CSD, and NBASLH Talks 4-part series, there is a much-needed and timely movement gaining momentum at the national, state, and local levels to improve diversity, inclusion, and anti-racist efforts.
This two-part episode will discuss some of the racial barriers and implicit/explicit biases that have played a role in the homogenous racial and ethnic make-up of our field. Additionally, this episode will brainstorm ways to overcome these barriers in the future, and identify simple steps that every person can take to move towards anti-racist and culturally competent clinical practice.
Show notes and links: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e44
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/speech-uncensored/message
SLPs are often met with a surprised “Wait, that's something you do?!". We lament no one understands our role or appreciates our work, and it’s easy to lose sight of our passions and the value we bring in a field that spans all ages, particularly when we feel constrained to a certain role or setting. In this episode, Sarah and Leigh Ann will discuss recognizing and finding your niche and self-value within the SLP field and embracing that value to benefit patients and the field.
Show notes available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e43
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/speech-uncensored/message
This course covers risk factors, feeding issues, and speech deficits in children and infants with cleft palate and 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Special emphasis will be given to the SLP’s role on the cleft palate team and the scope of the team’s role in providing care.
Show notes available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e42
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A lung transplant has become a frequent treatment option for patients with a variety of end-stage lung diseases. These patients have to be put through rigorous steps in order to deem themselves worthy of receiving this gift. After the transplant, there are potential complications that Speech Pathologists find themselves addressing. Knowledge base of lung disease and its impact on the swallowing, and breathing, creates a foundation for patients and their success. The lung transplant research highlights the underlying risks of an acute rejection and other injuries to the newly transplanted lung. Much of the research is related to esophageal phase dysphagia versus oral and pharyngeal dysphagia. The limited data on oropharyngeal dysphagia indicates that there is a dysphagia component which impact patient’s quality of life and well-being. The research also supports the use of Speech Pathology interventions to mitigate the aspiration risk.
Show notes available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e41
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On this episode, Brett McCardel and Leigh Ann dive into discourse analysis for your patients with Aphasia. Brett discusses the various resources available on AphasiaBank to assist clinicians with completing discourse analyses in everyday practice. This is especially helpful for our patients working on anomia in conversation. Show notes available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e40
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This course is meant to give clinicians an understanding of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux) and EOE (eosinophilic esophagitis), the similarities and differences between the two, how EOE may go undiagnosed, markers to look for as a clinician, when to refer for further testing and diagnostics, and how to provide the best treatment for patients with GERD or EOE.
Show Notes and Links: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e39
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This course will outline information necessary to initiate telepractice, including rules and regulations, population considerations, and navigating pitfalls to capitalize on the opportunities telepractice allows. Participants will learn how telepractice fits into the current and future view of speech-language pathology. Show Notes and Links: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e38
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Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) has been an instrumental tool used in adult intensive care units for many years. Adult intensivists have had education, training, and exposure to FEES to assess oropharyngeal physiology and direct appropriate treatment plans. Pediatric intensivists and neonatologists have had limited exposure to FEES and typically use videofluroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) as the gold standard for assessing dysphagia in infants. The purpose of this presentation is to review the role of FEES in a level three neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and pediatric cardiac intensive care unit (PCVICU). Physician perceptions and education/training provided to the critical care nurse will be discussed at length, including an online survey that was completed by pediatric intensivists, neonatologists, and nurses about the role of FEES and safety of FEES with infants.
Show Notes and Links: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e37
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Impacting life participation is an ideal goal for speech therapy, yet our therapy practices across clinical settings don’t always reflect a participation-focused approach. This course aims to describe why we care about targeting participation, what participation can look like in the therapeutic process, and how goals will be impacted and used when therapy is participation-focused with the adult neurogenic population.
Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e36
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With a scope of practice as wide as ours, it can be challenging to find your niche. This episode covers the journey of transitioning from clinician to consultant. There is a role for Speech and Language Pathologists in the corporate setting. Jason Hall will outline the key differences between a clinician and a consultant, the structure of a private practice built on a consultation model, and the role of an SLP in corporate settings.
Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e35
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This episode covers the importance of different types of voice evaluations for a whole client picture, and how to differentiate them all. We also discuss when each is appropriate and why. We explain each type of voice evaluation, and guide clinicians on what components to include in these different, but complementary, options for beginning voice therapy treatment.
Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e34
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Dysphagia negatively impacts the quality of life of patients and may lead to malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia and even death (Foley et al., 2009). We, as speech-language pathologists, must be aware of the experience of living with dysphagia, as “swallowing problems evoke a host of distressing psychological responses such as anxiety, shame, embarrassment, fear, and reduced self-esteem” (McHorne et al., 2000). These distressing psychological responses may affect the overall quality of life and life satisfaction; and therefore, swallowing assessments must be completed in consideration of the direction and goals of care of the patient and family. A palliative care team is vital in this aspect; deciphering patients’ wishes via medical orders for life-sustaining treatment, while providing an extra layer of support for the patient and family. Speech-language pathologists and palliative care professionals work together to effectively provide education and counseling to patients and their families regarding the progressive nature of a disease, dysphagia, and nutritional options. Nutritional options include oral intake, comfort feeds, and/or alternate means of nutrition/hydration. Information provided must be based on current research, following evidenced based practice. This collaboration and communication foster the patients cultural, spiritual, and personal ideas, promoting overall quality of life.
Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e33
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No matter what concerns a client presents with, each and every therapist must function as an educator during treatment. As such, having a clear understanding of health literacy is one of the cornerstones of being a good clinician-educator. Health literacy will not only help maximize patient outcomes, but also improve the patient experience by increasing independence and personal autonomy.
Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e32
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Why should we care about the Participation Model for therapy? Isn’t that just something for Aphasia therapy (LPAA)? Well, if your patients haven’t been hinting about this directly to you, then researchers have been publishing on what patients want in therapy. Sarah Baar of Honeycomb Speech Therapy has been combing the literature, implementing this model, and presenting on it for about 5 years now. The fruit of that work is in a tool (The Activity Studio!) that makes implementing the participation model in therapy a snap. Today’s conversation is a review of the literature supporting the need for us to shift our focus of therapy from a solely “impairment” activity model to a participation model.
Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e31
Music by: Twisterium "Follow your Dreams"
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This course will highlight common misconceptions regarding managing dysphagia in the adult population in the medical setting. The purpose of this course is to dispel these common practices in order to encourage critical thinking and to improve the quality of life and outcomes of patient care. Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e30
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Leigh Ann is sitting down with Elik Gurvitz of the Voice Keeper, a global voice banking company that allows users to create a digital voice using a free iOS app or on a computer using the Chrome or Safari browser. We discuss Elik's motivation for creating this service, who this service benefits, how to use it, and the cost. The more we know about products and services out there - the better we can guide our patients in decision making when it's time to consider voice banking. Show notes with additional resources are available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e29
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How do we move from discovering a problem our patients face to developing an innovative solution? The pattern of innovation, deeply rooted in collaboration across disciplines will be explored. The innovation stemmed from an understanding of the change in the dining experience for someone with dysphagia and their caregiver. We will focus on snack time as an opportunity to re-create the slow grazing behaviors that can lead to increased nutrition.
Benefits of increasing snacking frequency and snacking options with dysphagia will be shared. Transitional foods can help with increasing snacking options for dysphagia sufferers but it is a poorly understood category in the IDDSI pyramid. It is often offered as a training food for the pediatric population but its potential will be untapped for the adult population as well.
Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e28
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/speech-uncensored/message
This course will discuss how mindfulness approaches can be applied under the speech pathologist’s scope of practice. With an increasing focus on individualized, patient centered care, mindfulness approaches open the door for therapeutic alliances and allow a clinician and patient to work together in an efficient and effective manner. The goal of this course is to provide brief education regarding mindfulness, how it connects to speech therapy practice, and current mindfulness techniques that can be incorporated into speech therapy practice. This course primarily discusses application of mindfulness in adult rehabilitation settings. Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e27
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/speech-uncensored/message
According to the ASHA’s 2019 Annual Member and Affiliate Profile, the race and ethnicity demographics in the field of Speech-Language Pathology is largely homogenous—with many minority groups sorely underrepresented. ASHA endorses the idea that “cultural competence=clinical competence”, furthering the representation and understanding of cultural and linguistically diverse groups can result in better patient care. While there have been and currently are many efforts to increase diversity in our field, the numbers have remained relatively stagnant over the years.
This episode will explore the issues of diversity in our field, highlight current efforts increase diversity in our field, and outline steps that clinicians can take to improve their cultural competence. Further, we will discuss the value of mentorship, particularly for pre-professionals and early career professionals, and its role it increasing diversity in our field.
Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e26
One of the goals of the Speech Uncensored Podcast is to shine a spotlight on resources for SLPs. Today I want to turn the focus to podcasts! There are so many great SLP podcasts out there. Let’s take an inside look at one. For episode 74, I’m joined by Rachel Madel, part of the dynamic duo on the Talking with Tech podcast. We had a great conversation about Rachel’s journey to becoming a podcast host and how the Talking with Tech podcast has shaped her clinical practice. Rachel shared about the format of the podcast, what listeners can expect when they listen, and her top 5 episodes. I’m sure every episode is a treasure to Rachel, so in selecting her top 5, she considered episodes that would have a meaningful impact on new listeners. Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e25
This course is designed to provide the basics of burn injury and rehabilitation from the perspective of a speech language pathologist. It will explore the prevalence of this diagnostic group and the unique factors to consider in both assessment and treatment of labial, facial and cervical contractures. Classification of burns will be reviewed, types of grafts, as well as how the depth and location of the injury will guide the course of treatment. Visit the show notes for additional resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e24
Health-related quality of life (HRQL) is the impact of a health condition on the individual’s ability to lead a fulfilling life. Researchers have identified determinants of HRQL in stroke survivors with aphasia to include communication, mobility, mental/emotional health, role, and social functioning. The use of patient-reported outcomes to capture HRQL in people with aphasia may better facilitate client-centered treatment approaches in this population. Visit the show notes for additional resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e23
Traditionally, SLPs have generated goals for therapy based on a patient’s performance on an impairment-based assessment tool. This can lead to poor patient engagement in therapy. Megan Sutton has gathered a collection of resources into a guide for SLPs to develop patient centered goals in aphasia therapy. Learn how to implement the guide and the tools discussed to generate relevant therapy goals for your patients. Visit the show notes for additional resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e22
The medical management of concussion is advancing and SLPs have a role to play in addressing the cognitive symptoms. Dr. Michael Rippee specializes in concussion management with his work in sports neurology. Dr. Rippee provides insight to neurology’s role in the care progression of a patient with a concussion and how our two fields collaborate to address the patient’s symptoms. Join Leigh Ann & Michael as they discuss expectations and symptom management in the care of a patient after experiencing a concussion.
Show notes available at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e20
Kelsey Day, M.S., CCC-SLP joins us to discuss the crucial elements of dysphagia documentation, from Clinical Swallow Evaluation (in part one) to instrumentation to treatment. Dysphagia documentation need not only reflect skilled service, but should also contribute new, valuable information to the medical team and guide future dysphagia care. Our documentation should demonstrate “whole picture” understanding of our patient’s goals, values, rehabilitation potential, personal risk factors for dysphagia-related complication, and more. Our discussion covers the importance of thorough documentation and provides several case studies. Show notes available at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e20
Dr. Amanda Stead introduced us to issues related to end-of-life care for the SLP in episode 58. This is a brief teaser for Dr. Stead's future 2 hour lecture that will air December 2020. Show notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e19
Kelsey Day, MS, CCC-SLP joins us to discuss the crucial elements of dysphagia documentation, focusing on the Clinical Swallow Evaluation. Dysphagia documentation need not only reflect skilled service, but should also contribute new, valuable information to the medical team and guide future dysphagia care. Our documentation should demonstrate “whole picture” understanding of our patient’s goals, values, rehabilitation potential, personal risk factors for dysphagia-related complication, and more. Our discussion covers the importance of thorough documentation and provides a case study. Show notes available at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e18
Age-related voice changes (presbyphonia) are characterized by decreased loudness, increased hoarseness, and greater vocal effort. Patients with presbyphonia demonstrate different pathogenic profiles of laryngeal and respiratory deficits. Such deficits are thought to arise from negative changes to muscle structure and muscle strength or function in addition to the aging process. Phonation Resistance Training Exercises (PhoRTE) is a Level 1B voice therapy to treat presbyphonia (that is, published prospective, randomized, and controlled clinical trial). PhoRTE voice therapy is guided by principles of exercise physiology and requires patients to produce progressively higher vocal intensities during vocal tasks. By progressively overloading the phonatory system in PhoRTE, patients regain their vocal power with less vocal effort. Importantly, PhoRTE voice therapy places a strong emphasis on understanding the values of successful aging to promote communication, socialization, and vocation in our older adult population. Show Notes: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e17
Josh Reyes joins Leigh Ann on the COVID Conversations series. In response to the significant impact this public health crisis is having on our work, our lives, our education system, and our healthcare system, I’ve teamed up with my fellow SLPs to share insights into how the pandemic has changed their practice and what they’re doing to adapt. Today’s episode highlights the impact of COVID-19 as experienced by Josh, working in a SNF and a community hospital on the Southside of Chicago. https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/covidconvojosh
As our practice embraces a patient-centered care model, PROMs - Patient Reported Outcome Measures, can help identify patient’s concerns and measure the progress of therapy to address those complaints. Bonnie Slavych answers the important questions of what a PROM is, what it does, and how to use it in your practice. These are simple tools to incorporate into your practice that can help steer your evaluation process to ensure the patient’s goals are foremost in the creation of the plan of care. PROMs can also give us valuable qualitative and quantitative data to report in our discharge notes regarding the impact therapy has had on the patient’s impairments. Visit the show notes for additional resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e16
I am delighted to have Dr. Jordan Hazelwood as my guest on the COVID Conversations series. In response to the significant impact this public health crisis is having on our work, our lives, our education system, and our healthcare system, I’ve teamed up with my fellow SLPs to share insights into how the pandemic has changed their practice and what they’re doing to adapt. Today’s episode highlights the impact of COVID-19 on our professors, universities, undergraduate students, and graduate students. Show notes with links to resources available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/covidconvojordan
Brooke Richardson is joining me for this edition of the COVID Conversation. Today’s episode highlights the impact of COVID-19 on acute care workflows, community support for healthcare workers, providing dysphagia services with reduced access to instrumentals, and altered work schedules. Show notes with resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/covidconvobrooke
If you’ve worked with patients with dysphagia, you’ve probably experienced that feeling of trying to treat a patient who cannot afford dysphagia supplies. Since insurance doesn’t often cover dysphagia supplies such as thickener, adaptive feeding equipment, or therapy tools such as RMST devices, many individuals with dysphagia just go without. In this episode, we will talk to Hillary Cooper about how she had had enough of the madness, decided to take matters into her own hands, and created The Dysphagia Outreach Project. Show notes available at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e15
Kristin Murphey is joining me for this edition of the COVID Conversation. Today’s episode highlights the impact of COVID-19 on SLPs in SNFs - skilled nursing facilities. Show notes with resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/covidconvokristin
Caitlin Saxtein from Long Island, New York is joining me for this edition of the COVID Conversation. Today’s episode highlights the impact of COVID-19 on acute care therapists. Caitlin's current caseload is almost exclusively COVID-19 positive patients right now and she is shedding light on the SLP's role is in the midst of this pandemic. Show notes with resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/covidconvocaitlin
This episode will introduce issues related to end-of-life care, including the experience of dying in America, common care locales, and patient and family values at the end of life, as well as the important role that SLPs can play in caring for people near the end of life, and the application of ethical principles to end-of-life situations. Show notes available at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e14
I am delighted to have Rinki Varindani Desai as my first guest for the new COVID Conversations series. In response to the significant impact this public health crisis is having on our work, our lives, and our healthcare system, I’ve teamed up with my fellow SLPs to share insights into how the pandemic has changed their practice and what they’re doing to adapt. Today’s episode highlights the impact of COVID-19 on our outpatient setting. Show notes with resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/covidconvorinki
Millions of people are affected by health disparities secondary to racial and cultural inequalities (Payne, 2014). With the changing demographics, speech-language pathologists must anticipate significantly diverse caseloads which will include persons who are impacted by health disparities. The presenters of this podcast will describe health disparities as related to neurologically-based communication disorders and provide background on why disparities exist. In addition, the listeners will be provided with resources and methods that can be employed in clinical practice to support increased outcomes for patients and clients of color who have neurologically-based communication disorders and may be impacted by health disparities. Show notes available at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e13
Panelists: William Connors, MS, CCC-SLP, Joy Musser PhD, CCC-SLP, Tina Babajanians, MS, CCC-SLP. In this episode, a panel of presenters discussed about teletherapy, the essential and best practices for adult related services. Visit the show notes for access to resources and more: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/adultteletherapy
Lynn Hawk provides a thorough examination of voice rehabilitation after laryngectomy. The course focuses on establishing a framework of how the Tracheoesophageal Prosthetic (TEP) works to provide voicing for patients with a laryngectomy. Next, attention is given to maintaining the TEP with regular cleanings and leak tests. Patients with TEPs encounter challenges with leaking around the puncture site and Lynn provides techniques for troubleshooting. Show notes available at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e12
The tables have turned! We’re flipping the script! My amazing husband, Chase Porter takes the golden microphone and interviews the interviewer as we take a behind the scenes retrospective look at the Speech Uncensored Podcast. You’ll find out about how instrumental Chase was in launching the podcast from a thought and a wish to a reality. You’ll also hear from past guests and listeners on their favorite episodes and take-aways. Show notes available at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e11
Hannah Grassie will discuss a basic hierarchy of preparing yourself to work with specialized populations with a specific focus on patients with Parkinson’s disease. Whether or not you have experience or additional certifications, all clinicians can be equipped with evidence-based approaches that empower you to treat with the best knowledge of the field and its related research. In addition, there will be talk of resources, recommended therapy materials, and shared tools for getting started. Check out the show notes on www.speechuncensored.com for links to resources mentioned in the course. Check out links to resources, the research, and more at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e10
Bridget Guenther has spent her SLP career focusing on the treatment and management of head and neck cancer. As a Senior Clinical Educator for Atos Medical, Bridget provides education & trainings to SLPs and patients with total laryngectomy. Bridget joins Leigh Ann to lay a foundation on the role of the SLP in managing patients with total laryngectomy. We review SLP involvement pre-surgery, immediately post-surgery (acute care), and follow-up (outpatient). Our talk covers the need for education, counseling, and information on alaryngeal speech options for this patient population. Check out links to resources, the research, and more at : https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e9
Automatic Voice Recognition has become a tool for all of us to access our technology and our environments. However, for people with speech impairments, this is not always easy. Google has committed to a research project to determine how to make speech recognition accessible for all through Project Euphonia. You will learn how speech recognition models are currently built and the need for data (speech samples) from people with impaired speech to retrain current models. Google’s Project Manager and a supporting SLP will be presenting information and answering questions about Project Euphonia. Links to resources available at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e8
Respiratory impairments impact intelligibility in people with motor speech disorders. However, assessing and treating people with these disorders can be difficult. Dr. Jessica Huber and Leigh Ann Porter will describe some clinically-relevant measurements of respiratory function in speech that can be completed without expensive equipment. We will discuss how to address respiratory impairments in people with motor speech disorders. Check out the amazing show notes at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e7
Ever thought about starting a private practice, now or in the future? In this training, Jena Castro-Casbon, MS CCC-SLP will discuss the steps that SLPs follow in the path to start a successful private practice. Jena is here to dispel some common misconceptions regarding what a private practice has to “look” like, who it has to treat, and how you have to run it. Spoiler alert: there are no two private practices alike. The beauty of a private practice is that you can make it into whatever you want it to be. That’s some incredible flexibility. Visit the show notes for additional resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e7
The work we do as clinicians is hard. We have to take care of ourselves in order to best take care of our patients and their families and show up as our best selves to our jobs. Burnout can impact our ability to feel like we are making a difference, our job satisfaction, and can also lead to serious health issues. Being aware of the signs and symptoms as well as ways to keep burnout at bay is essential in making sure we have long and fulfilling careers. Check out links to resources mentioned in the podcast at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e5
Voice therapy is an effective behavioral intervention for many causes of dysphonia. Despite training in voice therapy, students and clinicians often do not feel as confident in their ability to treat voice disorders as they do in treating other communication disorders. Furthermore, achieving expert clinician status is often considered only obtainable after years of clinical experience. Critical to becoming a voice therapist is developing knowledge and skills for programming and administering voice therapy. In this course, decision-making in voice therapy will be discussed within an evidence-based practice framework, and opportunities to gain expertise in voice therapy will be recommended.
Check out links to resources mentioned in the podcast at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e4
Each year there are over 3.8 million reported and unreported sport-related concussions (Broglio et al., 2014). A concussion can result in cognitive-communicative deficits in attention, memory, executive functions, and social communication. Further, repeated concussions lead to increased risk for chronic deficits that impact one’s function in academic, vocational, and social activities. This podcast highlights sports-related concussions among adolescents and young adults who participate in contact and combat sports. In addition, the presenters will discuss the role of the speech-language pathologist in preventative activities, assessment, and management for return-to-learn/activity.
Check out links to resources mentioned in the podcast at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e3
This course will discuss the science behind the SpeechVive device, the clinical efficacy data, who it is best for, and the SLP’s role in using the device. Check out www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e2 for links to resources mentioned in the episode (websites, journal articles, etc.).
As SLPs, we have more to offer our patients in the ICU than dysphagia management. While that is high on the priority list, we cannot overlook the valuable skills we can offer the team in management of ICU delirium, and early modes of communication for patients on a ventilator or tracheostomy. Additionally, Brooke encourages us to take in the bigger picture and evaluate whole body systems when assessing dysphagia, cognition, and communication deficits. This podcourse is filled to the brim with insightful tips and information to level up your practice in the ICU. Check out https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s3e1 for access to the resources mentioned in this episode.
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Join Julie and Leigh Ann as they explore evolving best practices to work with people with Parkinson’s disease. Learn about the benefits of a preventative model for treatment and how to support individuals through a progressive neurological disease process. Julie brings a healthy dose of enthusiasm and mixes it with a solid foundation in best practices rooted in the latest evidence. In fact, Julie doesn’t wait for evidence to be published in the literature, she’s reaching out to researchers and learning about the work that is currently underway. My hope is that in addition to the knowledge and skill-building available in this podcourse, you will also learn how to connect with patients and earn the highest praise: “you instill confidence!” Visit: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e22-passionate-about-parkinsons-with-julie-fechter-ms-ccc-slp
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How can you start an Aphasia Support Group in your facility? Tune in, because Elizabeth Wikane has done some serious research and then implemented it at her facility. Elizabeth provides phenomenal resources in her talk and paves the way for you to get organized and start an Aphasia Support Group in your facility. Check out the great resources Elizabeth provided for the show notes at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e21-aphasia-support-groups-with-elizabeth-wikane-ms-ccc-slp-cbis
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SLP life in a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) can be challenging - but PRN life in a SNF is a whole different type of special. Kelly is joining Leigh Ann to discuss resources available to help manage expectations around productivity, materials for therapy and assessments, and other considerations related to how SNFs operate. Check out speechuncensored.com for links to the resources mentioned in the episode. Check out https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e20-all-things-prn-for-snfs-with-kelly-zarifa-ma-ccc-slp for the show notes.
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What is health literacy? How does health literacy improve outcomes? How do we incorporate health literacy into our everyday practice? We discuss how the therapeutic interaction is one of providing information and empowering a medical culture of respecting and valuing individual choices based both on a growing and evolving evidence base as well as personal values and priorities. We discuss the continuum of health literacy from functional (e.g., “Here is a handout on your condition.”) to interactive (e.g., “Here is the time and address to a support group in your area.”) to critical (e.g., “There is a clinical study gathering data about people who are experiencing your diagnosis. Would you like to participate?”). We also discuss how increasing diversity fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and a broader lens through which to view solutions to problems. To sum up, the future of rehabilitation therapy lies in building interdisciplinary connections from diverse communities that create critical health literacy opportunities (such as the Learning Health System) that allow us to bridge the gap between clinical research and clinical practice. Visit: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e19-sparking-curiosity-about-health-literacy-to-improve-patient-outcomes-featuring-megan-berg-ma-ccc-slp
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Dr. Ann Kummer is a leading practitioner and educator in the specialization of cleft palate, craniofacial conditions, resonance disorders, and VPI for the past 40 years. Dr. Kummer’s textbook on this topic is now in the 4th edition and is an incredible resource. Ann seamlessly weaves her way through simple and effective evaluation procedures and amazing artic hacks she’s picked up along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between velopharyngeal insufficiency and incompetence, Ann will clarify the terms quickly and concisely. If you’ve ever wondered what pharyngeal cul-de-sac resonance sounds like, tune in. If you’ve ever wondered if there was another use for straws, tune in. Visit: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e18-understanding-resonance-disorders-and-velopharyngeal-dysfunction-in-children-and-adults-featuring-ann-kummer-phd-ccc-slp-asha-f
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Feeling stressed out about work stuff and life? We're gonna detox your brain with mindfulness! Join Jessi and Leigh Ann as they discuss how to manage stress with mindfulness so that you can find balance again. The unique stressors of our work can make for a bumpy ride, but Jessi is here with tips and tools to help you regain control of your calm. Catch and handle stress before it turns chronic and nosedives into burnout. Jessi is here to equip you and provide ongoing support through her website, free membership tools (SLP toolbox), and Facebook group. Join the community and get back to thriving! Show notes available at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e17-managing-slp-stress-with-mindfulness-featuring-jessi-andricks-ms-ccc-slp
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Join Melissa & Leigh Ann for the inaugural episode of the “from podcast to practice” series where we look back on a formative listening experience from a previous episode and discuss how we’ve implemented the material we learned. We’re going to go all in on the successes, the failures, and what we still need to learn to get this right. Plus, Melissa has cultivated a list of resources to jump-start your transition from workbook reliance to patient-driven therapy. Melissa and Leigh Ann are reviewing the episode featuring Sarah Baar from episode 14 (Meaningful Aphasia Therapy) with some tidbits from Megan Sutton’s episodes (episode 19 & 27) thrown in on the side. Check out the show notes on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e16-from-podcast-to-practice-implementing-person-centered-care-with-melissa-kurrle-ms-ccc-slp
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Dr. Audrey Holland has made substantial contributions to our field and joins Leigh Ann to discuss the past, present, and future of Aphasia therapy with a special focus on person centered care. In today’s talk, we cover select aphasia assessments and therapy protocols that focus on what a person with Aphasia can do, rather than focusing on the deficits. Dr. Holland has had a prolific career and even attempting to cover a fraction of her work during today’s talk was challenging. There’s just so much! So dive into the show notes for access to more of Dr. Holland’s work. Visit: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e15-past-present-future-of-aphasia-therapy-with-audrey-holland-phd-ccc-slp-asha-f
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Marisha and Leigh Ann join forces to provide a guide for SLPs wishing to transition from the medical setting to the school-based setting. Marisha is an organizational wizard and brings her knowledge of the unique skills necessary to flourish in the schools to today’s episode. If you’ve ever contemplated making the leap, then this discussion is a great place to start to learn skills that will keep you ahead of the curve. Visit the show notes for more resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e14-transition-from-medical-to-school-setting-with-marisha-mcgorty-ms-ccc-slp
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In this podcast we will be discussing the development and evolution of a three day course on Transgender voice and communication taught by the presenters Christie Block, Leah Helou and Sandy Hirsch. They will be discussing course content and development as well as the changes that they make annually to the course in order to meet the needs of a rapidly changing gender environment. The podcast will underscore the importance of anyone serving the gender diverse community to not only hone and maintain their clinical skills in voice, but to develop and be sensitive to not just cultural competence, but the broader meaning of cultural humility. Visit the show notes for additional useful resources at: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e13-preparing-voice-clinicians-to-support-speakers-across-the-gender-spectrum-with-christie-block-ma-ms-ccc-slp-leah-b-helou-phd-ccc-slp-sandy-hirsch-ms-ccc-slp
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Michelle Wheeler returns to demystify voice banking on episode 32! Michelle took my rudimentary understanding of voice banking and expanded it to include message banking. With the tools in the show notes on www.speechuncensored.com, you can learn how to get your patients started in preserving their voice before becoming lost to progressive neurodegenerative disease processes. Our voice carries so much of our personality, it becomes crucial to preserve what we can to keep our identity strong. Message banking can be a very rewarding process for the patient and their loved ones. Knowing when to present the information and encourage your patient towards this endeavor is a fine balance. It helps if you, the clinician, dive into message and voice banking on your own! So check out the resources and make some recordings of your own! You can even donate your voice for others to use with their SGD. Check out the show notes on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e12-demystifying-voice-banking-with-michelle-wheeler-ms-ccc-slp
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Ever thought about hitting the road and taking travel assignments? Wondering how to make the travel lifestyle a full-time gig? Julia Kuhn of “The Traveling Traveler” fame is joining Leigh Ann to discuss the nuts and bolts of short-term travel assignments. Julia will reveal how to get a job as a traveling therapist and how to determine if the travel opportunity is lucrative. Julia also discusses the characteristics and skills that make a good traveler and if traveling is a good decision for your career. Check out the show notes at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e11-become-a-traveling-medical-slp-with-julia-kuhn-ms-ccc-slp for links to Julia’s resources.
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Join Dr. Leah Helou as she presents the concept of “meta-therapy” as a fourth dimension of voice therapy. There is direct therapy, indirect therapy, and counseling - “meta-therapy” is the conversation that shapes therapeutic outcomes. As Dr. Helou is a voice-specialized SLP, our conversation centers mostly on how meta-therapy can shape voice therapy outcomes. However, wouldn’t this concept be applicable in all areas of our field? Shouldn’t we be empowering patients in aphasia therapy, motor speech therapy, and cognitive-linguistic therapy to take control and ownership of the therapy process? Listen and learn how to apply the principles of meta-therapy to improve patient outcomes in therapy. Visit the show notes for more useful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e10-meta-therapy-how-conversation-shapes-therapeutic-response-with-leah-b-helou-phd-ccc-slp
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TaVona provides tips and techniques to overcome burnout and thrive in the healthcare industry. What is Burnout? I mean, do we even need to define it? Aren’t we all pretty intimate with what it feels like? Burnout is more than just dissatisfaction with your work - it’s emotional exhaustion, detachment, and feelings of decreased personal achievement. This episode moves beyond describing the effects of burnout to skills and techniques you can implement to increase career engagement and establish work/life boundaries. Turn the table on needless suffering at the hands of burnout and become empowered! TaVona is our guide to learn how in this episode of the Speech Uncensored Podcast. Visit the show notes for more useful information: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e9-essential-skills-to-overcome-burnout-in-rehab-with-tavona-denise-boggs-pt
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This episode will provide the unique opportunity for listeners to hear from Dr. Lindsey Heidrick and a round table discussion with Jacob McKinley, Caitlin Dunbar, and Courtney Heitz on obtaining a medical clinical fellowship. Lindsey starts off the episode describing the advice she provides graduate students who are interested in beginning their careers in the medical speech and language pathology setting. We discuss the relevant coursework a student would need, and the benefit of taking certifications while still a student (save some money and get an edge on your competition). Lindsey discusses dedicated CF positions (something I didn’t really know existed) as an option to aim for after graduate school.
The roundtable with Jacob, Caitlin, and Courtney offers real life examples of how these three SLPs obtained CFs in a competitive level 1 trauma hospital. The trio describes their experiences applying for jobs and what they did to set themselves apart from the competition and stand out to the hiring manager. Visit the show notes for more useful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e8
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Megan Sutton joins us for an in depth look at a few of her Tactus Therapy apps. Megan is passionate about connecting clinicians with evidence-based tools to treat aphasia. Over the past 9 years, Megan has built and refined some of the best tools on the digital market to address expressive and receptive language needs. In today’s talk, Megan highlights the specific evidence-based techniques that support each app. For example, in the Naming Therapy app, Megan consulted the literature regarding PCA (Phonological components analysis), SFA (Semantic Feature Analysis), and RET (Response Elaboration Training). Join us as Megan reveals that including evidence-based treatment and patient-centered care are achievable in everyday practice. Visit the show notes for more useful information at speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e7-delivering-evidence-based-treatment-using-tactus-therapy-apps-with-megan-sutton-ms-ccc-slp-c
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Dr. Joy Musser has spent her SLP career focused on providing high quality voice therapy services. Within the last few years, Joy has been focused on reaching an under-served population in our field - transgender voice therapy. In this episode, Joy discusses the evolution of her private practice from providing all types of voice therapy to focusing solely on transgender voice therapy and now, having a waitlist for these services. Joy outlines the indirect communication techniques that are part of her therapy and recognizes that transgender voice therapy is more than just matching a pitch. Join us to learn more about this unique and under-served population and how the specialized training Speech & Language Pathologists complete makes us excellent candidates to provide quality transgender voice therapy. Visit the show notes for more useful resources on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e6-more-than-pitch-a-holistic-approach-to-voice-feminization-with-joy-musser-phd-ccc-slp
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Brooke introduces Leigh Ann to RMT - Respiratory Muscle Training through a lively discussion covering the basics of expiratory muscle training (EMT) and its applications on improving deficits in cough and dysphagia. Brooke is passionate about providing quality education on RMT and this is palpable across the topics covered in the course. Brooke guides the conversation through an introduction to RMT, illustrating the principles of strength training, and application of RMT to the cough and dysphagia. At each stage of the talk, Brooke references high-quality evidence in the literature which can be accessed via the show notes on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e5-respiratory-muscle-training-for-dysphagia-with-brooke-richardson-ms-ccc-slp
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Sarah Baar is here to revolutionize your evaluation procedure. If you want to know how to dynamically assess the functional needs of your patients to identify deficits to target in therapy and develop measurable goals for therapy, then Sarah has the inside scoop for you. Sarah will guide you through real-life examples of how to implement a functional needs interview, get the best out of patients with motivational interview techniques, and create measurable goals for therapy via Person-Centered Outcomes questionnaires. Something I’ve been lacking in my practice has been this critical piece of the puzzle. I’ve been relying solely on static, standardized assessments and a few brief open-ended questions along the lines of “so, what’s important for you to achieve in therapy?” Sarah’s recommendations go so far beyond that to really capture a patient’s functional needs/deficits that many standardized assessments can often miss. For example, a patient may test “WFL” on an assessment, but have impairments in the home environment. Nonstandardized, dynamic assessments can fill in the gaps and show us how we can help the patient return to a level of participation in their daily life that is achievable and desirable. Visit the show notes for more helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e4-assessing-functional-needs-in-the-adult-neurologic-population-with-sarah-baar-ms-ccc-slp
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Dr. Fager specializes in research connecting AAC with persons with severe physical and/or cognitive impairments. In today’s episode, Dr. Fager discusses her research on assistive technology and how the work she is completing translates to clinical practice. We also cover the progression from low tech AAC to high tech AAC a patient may experience across their recovery stages. Dr. Fager provides case studies to illustrate creative problem solving and overcoming obstacles to provide patients with a means to express themselves. Visit the show notes for additional useful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e3-access-technology-for-aac-adults-with-susan-koch-fager-phd-ccc-slp
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Michelle Wheeler has spent the last 13+ years providing AAC resources to children and adults. Michelle unravels the mystery of providing AAC options for patients by dispelling myths, describing her day-to-day work, and pointing us to online resources to learn more. Learn from a clinician, in the trenches who works directly with patients and school teams to connect people with modalities to enhance their communication. Visit the show notes for more helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e2-introduction-to-the-world-of-aac-apps-for-adults-with-michelle-wheeler-ms-ccc-slp
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The first episode of season 2 has us sitting down with Lynn Hawk, MA, CCC-SLP to discuss all things transgender voice therapy clinics. Lynn Hawk’s Voice and Swallow Clinic was approached by an OB-GYN to build a program that would provide high quality transgender voice therapy. Lynn outlines the steps she and her SLP colleagues undertook to build a program from scratch to meet a rising need in our scope of practice. Lynn discusses the CEUs and expert providers her clinic relied on to learn foundational skills, such as the concept of meta-therapy, prior to rolling out the new program. Visit the show notes for more helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s2e1-building-a-transgender-voice-clinic-with-lynn-hawk-ms-ccc-slp
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Visit https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/season-1-finale for the show notes.
Megan Sutton joins us for episode 17 to discuss how we can integrate technology when working with persons with aphasia (PWA). Megan is a fountain of information and knowledge on aphasia therapy and gives great tips and resources in our talk. Megan is the creator of the Tactus therapy apps (tactustherapy.com) for adult rehab. Learn about her apps and other fabulous resources such as SCA - supported conversations for adults. As always - links for the literature and resources discussed in the episode can be found in the show notes at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e17-integrating-technology-in-aphasia-therapy-with-megan-sutton-ms-ccc-slp-c
Music: The Engagement by Silent Partner
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Episode 16 finds us checking in with Sarah Baar from Honeycomb Speech Therapy to make that sought after connection of linking research with functional therapy outcomes. Sarah guides us through the INCOG article with real-world examples of how she has implemented Metacognitive Strategy Training with functional activities for her patients. The show notes on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e16-close-the-game-closet-better-cognitive-therapy-with-sarah-baar-ma-ccc-slp contain no less than 8 links to resources for SLPs to dig deeper and get crackin’.
Music: Romantic Funk by Twisterium
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In Episode 15, Teepa Snow introduces us to the Positive Approach to Care (PAC) for people with a changing brain. It was a delight to discuss Teepa’s model of care that focuses on the person’s intact abilities to promote increased quality of life and participation. Based on the Allen Cognitive Disability Model, Teepa developed the GEMS model to understand the dynamic nature of the human brain. “Rather than focusing on a person’s loss when there is brain change, seeing individuals as precious, unique, and capable encourages a care partnership…” Teepa's approach to care partner education and clinician training is accessible to everyone. Like, seriously, everyone. Check out links to articles and free resources in the show notes on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e15-positive-approach-to-care-for-people-with-dementia-with-teepa-snow-ms-otr/l-faota
Music: Look around by Twisterium
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When you wnt to learn more about treating chronic cough - you go to the woman who wrote the first textbook on the topic: Dr. Anne Vertigan. Episode 16 is jam-packed with descriptions of chronic cough, assessment protocols, and treatment options. Somehow, Dr. Vertigan compressed the knowledge of a 257-page resource manual into an eloquent one-hour discussion. I am still a bit star-struck from the whole affair. But seriously, Dr. Vertigan brings the REALNESS with this talk. Don’t mind me, I’ll just be over here fan-girling…
Visit https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e14-chronic-cough-management-with-anne-vertigan-b-app-sc-sp-path-mba-phd for the show notes.
Get Dr. Vertigan’s textbook: Speech Pathology Management of Chronic Refractory Cough and Related Disorders.
Music: Sweet Life by Twisterium
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On episode 13, Joshua Reyes sits down to talk about the creative process of making memes and therapy materials. If you’re on instagram then it’s highly likely you follow @slpmemes. With a following of over 34.4 thousand people and over 900 posts (as of May 2019), I think it’s safe to say that Josh owns the SLP internet. His brand of memes are an uncensored look at our profession and an unapologetic stab at the status quo. Visit the show notes for additional useful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e13-medication-management-memes-with-joshua-reyes-ms-ccc-slp
Music: Aspire by Twisterium
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In this episode, Sarah Baar lays the foundation to revolutionize your aphasia therapy. Calling upon the framework described in Kagan’s 2011 article (link at speechuncensored.com), Sarah brings tried and true methods to make language therapy functional for your patient’s communication needs. It’s more than naming opposites and listing words that begin with ‘b.’ Meaningful aphasia therapy is about understanding your patient’s personal interests, environmental needs/limitations, and participation in relationships, roles, and activities of choice. Once you know those things, you can have an impact on your patient’s communication abilities. Visit the show notes for additional useful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e12-meaningful-aphasia-therapy-with-sarah-baar-ma-ccc-slp
Music: Way Up by Twisterium
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Dr. Lindsey Heidrick works on multidisciplinary teams for ALS, Parkinson’s Disease (PD), and MD (muscular dystrophy). In this episode, Lindsey describes the services she provides in each of these three separate clinics, who she collaborates with, and the benefits to the patient when they are seen as part of a multidisciplinary team.
It’s a truly eye opening perspective on a very different service delivery model that we, as SLPs, can provide and be a valuable tool within a neurologist’s outpatient office. Lindsey also covers emerging research regarding these populations. Other important topics: active listening, voice banking, collaboration with a dietician, and group voice therapy for PD.
Music: Romantic Folk Loop by Twisterium
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You likely know Will better by his social media handle @hardtoswallowslp. But he’s got so much more to share than hilariously relevant medical SLP memes. Will’s got a bit of a soapbox moment that he needs to broadcast. Okay, I asked him to broadcast it because I 100% agree with his sentiments and I want to learn more.
So check out the episode as Will breaks down how replace a language of fear with one of facts when discussing dysphagia management with your patients.
Links to articles mentioned in this episode and Will's favorite dysphagia articles are at https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e10-replacing-a-language-of-fear-for-facts-when-discussing-dysphagia-management-with-will-farnham-ms-ccc-slp
Music: Follow Your Dreams by Twisterium
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In this episode, I sit down with Lauren Ball to discuss how she weaves the 10 principles of neuroplasticity into her treatment plan. When developing a treatment plan and creating therapy materials for a session, Lauren asks herself: is this task intense enough? Are we repeating this important skill/task enough times? Is it salient? Does it have potential to transfer to another task or neural circuits? Understanding the ten principles of neuroplasticity can help you develop treatment plans and create therapy tasks that benefit the patient and result in cognitive remediation. Check out https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e9-how-neuroplasticity-influences-treatment-with-lauren-ball-ms-ccc-slp for links to the articles. Music: Happy Morning by Twisterium
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What is cough assist? Who is it for? Who can perform a cough assist? Why do a cough assist? What’s the purpose of the cough assist? Manual or mechanical? How do you get trained in it? Why would you want to get trained? How often would you use this technique? Sydney answers all these questions and more in her enlightening discussion on cough assist with patients who experience respiratory complications. Sydney is a big believer in the use of cough assist for patients who have such severe dysphagia they struggle with secretion management. Check out the show notes on https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e8-cough-assist-with-sydney-parriott-ms-ccc-slp for access to more information. Music: Funky Background by Twisterium
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PRN: Abbreviation meaning "when necessary" (from the Latin "pro re nata", for an occasion that has arisen, as circumstances require, as needed (source: MedicineNet). Jen is BACK! You may recall Jen from her terrific talk about the vent and trach population in LTACs (episodes 1 & 2). In this episode, we dive deep into how Jen makes a career out of strictly PRN coverage as an SLP. I’ve heard of people doing this before and I was like whaaaaa? That sounds stressful and like it would contain too many unknowns. So it was fun for me to sit down with Jen and learn how she makes it work (pro tip: set a budget and know the minimum you need to work each month to achieve the income goals you established).
Visit the show notes for additional useful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e7-living-that-prn-life-with-jen-hurst-ms-ccc-slp
Music: Happy Sunny Mood by Twisterium
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Lauren wraps up her amazing talk about inpatient rehab life with a run-down of the cognitive and language assessments that she uses on her unit. Then, she gets all inspiring and drops beautiful words of wisdom. Visit the show notes for additional helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e6-cognitive-language-evaluations-on-inpatient-rehab-unite-with-lauren-ball-ms-ccc-slp
Music in podcast: “freedom” by Twisterium
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In this episode, I sit down with Lauren Ball to discuss what life is like on an inpatient rehab unit for an SLP. Because Lauren has also worked in Skilled Nursing (SNF), she’s able to compare the two settings and discuss how patients qualify for inpatient rehab vs. SNF when they are discharged from the hospital. Lauren covers all the facets of this unique setting and how she generates materials for therapy, "it depends on each patient, what’s important to them.” Lauren’s guiding principle for planning therapy sessions is to consider “what do they need to be able to do at home” and balances that with feedback from the patient about their priorities for recovery. Visit the show notes for additional helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e5-slp-life-on-the-inpatient-rehab-unit-with-lauren-ball-ms-ccc-slp
Music: Toast - Outside
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Part two of Sydney’s talk about in-line speaking valves concludes with her explanation of swallow evaluations with this population. Sydney also reveals the best and worst thing about working with critically ill patients in the acute setting. We wrap up by brainstorming Sydney’s plan to advocate for a protocol to incorporate in-line speaking valves in the weaning process for vent dependent patients in her acute care setting. Visit the show notes for additional helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e4-swallow-evaluations-in-line-speaking-valves-for-vent-dependent-patients-with-sydney-parriott-ms-ccc-slp
Music: Hozgram - Trip
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Sydney discusses the importance of implementing in-line speaking valves for patients on a ventilator as part of the weaning process. In-line speaking valves also serve as an opportunity for chronically ventilated patients to use their voice. In part 1 of a two-part series, Sydney compares the implementation of in-line speaking valves in her experiences with an LTAC and an acute hospital. Sydney is a fount of information and your brain will feel 10x bigger after listening to her discuss the ins and outs of in-line speaking valves.
Visit the show notes for additional helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e3-in-line-speaking-valves-for-ventilator-patients-with-sydney-parriott-ms-ccc-slp
Music: Pipo Interludo by WOWA and Pipo
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The conclusion of the discussion with Leigh Ann Porter and Jen Hurst on the trach and vent population takes us through typical evaluation and treatment steps. Throughout part 1 and 2 of our discussion, a theme emerged…. collaboration. It became apparent to me that when working with medically fragile patients, coordinating your efforts with stakeholders is paramount. Discuss your plan of care with the dietician, the pulmonologist, the respiratory therapist, the nurse. Everyone needs to be on the same page and the best way to do that is in front of that person - having a face to face discussion. Visit the show notes for additional helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1-e2-eval-treatment-with-the-trach-vent-population-in-ltacs-with-jen-hurst-ms-ccc-slp
Music: Siren by Kuromaru
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In this week's episode, Leigh Ann Porter sits down with Jen Hurst MS, CCC-SLP to discuss her experience working in an LTAC (long term acute care hospital) with trach and vent patients. We cover a wide range of topics including how Jen landed in this setting, who trained her to work with this population, and the nuances of LTAC. We also discuss the importance of being prepared to care for patients considering hospice care and are making that transition to end of life care.
What’s great about sitting down with Jen is that she doesn’t hold back, she’s honest, and will tell it like it is. We hope you enjoy listening along to our conversation that sheds some light on the LTAC setting, and the trach & vent population. Stay tuned for episode two - the conclusion of our discussion that focuses on the nuts and bolts of evaluation and treatment for trach and vent patients.
Visit the show notes for additional helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/s1e1-finding-your-feet-with-the-trach-vent-population-in-ltacs-with-jen-hurst-ms-ccc-slp
Music: Pathway by Hozgram
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Discover the delicious flavors of ear candy the Speech Uncensored Podcast will serve up on a regular basis. Visit the show notes for additional helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/whats-up-with-sup
Find out how the Speech Uncensored Podcast came to be and what to expect in future episodes as we dive deeper into the world of medical Speech and Language Pathology. Visit the show notes for helpful resources: https://www.speechuncensored.com/podcastepisodes/podcast-origin-story