thegalactosemiapodcast.com - support the show; ad-free and early access episodes
Links & Resources Mentioned:
Babble Bootcamp - https://www.northernspeech.com/competency-courses/babble-boot-camp-basic-training/
Apraxia Kids Foundation - Apraxiakids.com
GLOW for Galactosemia - glowforgalactosemia.org
In this episode, we speak with Dr. Nancy Potter, speech-language pathologist and creator of Babble Boot Camp, the world’s first early speech intervention program designed for infants at risk for speech and language delays, including children with galactosemia. Dr. Potter shares her journey from driving cross-country to study childhood apraxia of speech to leading groundbreaking research that empowers parents to support their child’s communication from infancy.
You’ll hear personal stories, practical tips, and the latest research on how early intervention can make a lasting difference in speech development.
Key Topics Discussed:
Dr. Potter’s career path and connection to galactosemia research
Understanding the differences between speech and language disorders
The origin, goals, and successes of Babble Boot Camp
How early intervention leverages brain plasticity for speech development
Tips for parents to support speech and language at home
Navigating insurance and accessing early intervention services
The importance of community support
Guest Bios:
Dr. Nancy Potter is a professor of speech and hearing sciences with over 40 years of experience in pediatric speech-language pathology. She has led pioneering research in childhood apraxia of speech, particularly in children with galactosemia. Dr. Potter co-founded Camp Candoo and developed Babble Boot Camp, an innovative early intervention program helping children build strong foundations in speech and language.
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:45 Meet Dr. Nancy Potter
00:04:15 Dr. Potter’s Journey into Speech Pathology
00:07:30 Discovering Galactosemia & Childhood Apraxia of Speech
00:11:00 Research Challenges & Nationwide Study
00:15:20 Defining Speech vs. Language Disorders
00:20:50 Understanding Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)
00:24:10 The Babble Boot Camp Origin Story
00:29:00 Parent Implementation & Success Stories
00:34:30 Early Intervention: Why Timing Matters
00:40:15 Speech and Literacy Connections
00:45:40 Insurance, Access, & Navigating Support Systems
00:55:30 Practical Tips for Parents at Home
01:00:45 Community Support
01:05:10 Reflecting on Research Progress & Gratitude
01:10:00 Final Takeaways & Words of Encouragement
01:15:00 Recap Time
