Shows
The NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 105 Using AI to Build Connections with Your Students [Quick Tip]In this quick tip show, Chris, aka Speech Dude, will dive into how SLPs can use ChatGPT to save time, generate creative therapy ideas, and support neurodiversity-affirming practices.
Whether you’re curious about AI or looking for practical ways to integrate it into your sessions, this episode is packed with insights and demos you can start using immediately.
Want to learn more about using AI in your therapy? Click here to catch the replay of Chris's free webinar: ChatGPT for SLPs - https://www.speechdude.com/replay-chatgpt-for-slps-oct-2025
2025-10-3008 min
Pronunciation Pro73: Sharpen Your Focus, Improve Your English: 7 Tips for Better CommunicationIn this episode of the Pronunciation Pro Podcast, Annie dives into the powerful strategies from the book Hyperfocus by Chris Bailey to help you improve your focus and study habits as you are working to improve your English pronunciation. Whether you're struggling to stay focused while practicing or looking for ways to boost your communication skills, Annie shares practical tips you can start using today.
From eliminating distractions to honing in on the key areas of pronunciation, these insights will help you speak more clearly and confidently. Tune in for actionable advice on how to sharpen your...
2024-12-0835 minThe NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 88 Neurodiversity Affirming Counseling for Autism, ADHD, & PDA with AuDHDer & LCSW Sam MarionWhat does it mean to be a neurodiversity affirming social worker?
Social workers are a crucial part of any team supporting neurodivergent individuals. With two primary paths—supporting nonprofits that serve the community or running a clinical practice providing direct care—social work is deeply rooted in social justice, advocating for equity and access for all individuals.
On this episode of Making the Shift, Chris sits down with Sam Marion, a multiply neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, PDA) Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to explore how neurodiversity-affirming practices are reshaping the field of social work.
They’ll div...
2024-12-0520 minThe NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 85 Sensory Classroom TourEvery week, we're flooded with DMs from SLPs and therapists asking the same thing, “how can I pull off sensory-based sessions if I don’t have a fancy gym?” And here’s the kicker—you don’t need one! Yes, sensory gyms are amazing, but when you know why each tool works, you can get creative and recreate that magic with stuff you already have. So even if you an SLP at a school, you can have succesful sensory sessions! On this episode of Making the Shift, we're breaking down how you can start with sensory today—no gym required.
...
2024-11-1412 min
School of SpeechTransformative Strategies for Neurodiversity Affirming IEPsGuest: Chris Wenger, MS, CCC-SLP - Key strategies to make the shift towards neuroaffirming IEPs will be explored in this one-hour conversational course podcast. This session is designed to equip school-based SLPs with practical strategies to create inclusive and effective IEPs that honor each autistic student's unique strengths and needs. Participants will learn foundational concepts of neurodiversity, explore key strengths-based approaches, and gain valuable insights into shifting from a deficit-focused perspective to a strengths-based approach. This course aims to ensure all students thrive in their educational journeys, providing clinicians with the tools to foster a supportive and empowering learning...
2024-10-151h 08The NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 76: How We Can Do Better For Autistic KidsRecently, a parent of a 9-year old Autistic boy shared with me that her son threatened to take his life multiple times. He was so sad that at 9 years old, he did not want to live anymore. And that got me thinking… How is it that we’ve missed the mark that badly when it comes to supporting Autistic children? How is it, that even though there are loads of options for therapy for neurodivergent kids, that there are still so many kids feeling overwhelmed, hurt, and unsupported…and so many families who feel lost, confused, and also unsupported? Why is...
2024-09-1119 min
The SLP Now PodcastWriting Neurodiversity Affirming Goals with Jessie Ginsburg and Chris WengerShow Notes: slpnow.com/190Mentioned in this episode:5 FREE Therapy MaterialsGo to 🔗 slpnow.com/pod 🔗 to download 5 evidence-backed therapy materials for FREE!
2024-08-2736 minThe NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 73: The Problem With Social Skills TrainingChris's ND Affirming Activity Book is out NOW! Click below to grab it: https://www.speechdude.com/book
The problem with traditional social skills training is that it focuses on teaching autistic individuals to mimic neurotypical behaviors and suppress their autistic traits. And this comes at a significant cost to the autistic individual's self-esteem. By encouraging masking, or hiding one's true self to fit in, these programs can lead to exhaustion, burnout, and a loss of identity. The emphasis on fitting into a conventional mold can increase anxiety, stress, and feelings of inadequacy, as it suggests that...
2024-08-2127 min
The Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention171 Wendy McNiel: An Adoption Story. When Gratitude and Grief coexistHey Friends~
Today on "The Language of Play," we have Wendy McNiel with us. Wendy was adopted at the age of 12, and she has a fascinating story to share. She talks about her move from Puerto Rico, learning English, and adjusting to a new family and life. Wendy also opens up about her experiences with a speech impediment, stuttering, and a learning disability.
Her journey is a mix of challenges and gratitude, offering valuable insights for parents navigating adoption and supporting children with special needs. Listen in to hear Wendy's story of faith, journaling, and p...
2024-08-0818 minThe Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention171 Wendy McNiel: An Adoption Story. When Gratitude and Grief coexistHey Friends~
Today on "The Language of Play," we have Wendy McNiel with us. Wendy was adopted at the age of 12, and she has a fascinating story to share. She talks about her move from Puerto Rico, learning English, and adjusting to a new family and life. Wendy also opens up about her experiences with a speech impediment, stuttering, and a learning disability.
Her journey is a mix of challenges and gratitude, offering valuable insights for parents navigating adoption and supporting children with special needs. Listen in to hear Wendy's story of faith, journaling, and p...
2024-08-0818 min
Talking With Tech AAC PodcastKarina Carter & Nicole Young: Teaching Language to AAC Users with HorsesThis week, we share Rachel's interview with Karina Carter and Nicole Young! Karina Carter is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) at Children’s TheraPlay, where horses are used therapeutically to support children with disabilities and/or unique needs, including complex communicators! Nicole is the mother of TY, an AAC User who is one of Karina’s clients. Karina shares all about equine speech therapy with AAC Users, and Nicole shares about her son’s journey becoming an AAC user and (eventual) horse lover with Karina’s help!
Before the interview, Chris shares about his wife's recent completio...
2024-06-0759 minThe Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention145 Katja Lany: How Montessori caused her to know her inner child and reparent herselfHey Friends~
Do you wonder how to choose the school type for your child? Today’s guest, Katja Lany, discusses what sparked her knowing that Montessori was the right choice for her children. And it may surprise you.
She also talks about how OUR inner child can keep us stuck from following what we know, for our children. In these cases, we may need to reparent ourselves.
Her beautiful German accent will keep you entranced while you learn about Montessori, inner child work, and how these things showed Katja how she can reparent herself. ...
2024-05-1621 minThe Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention145 Katja Lany: How Montessori caused her to know her inner child and reparent herselfHey Friends~
Do you wonder how to choose the school type for your child? Today’s guest, Katja Lany, discusses what sparked her knowing that Montessori was the right choice for her children. And it may surprise you.
She also talks about how OUR inner child can keep us stuck from following what we know, for our children. In these cases, we may need to reparent ourselves.
Her beautiful German accent will keep you entranced while you learn about Montessori, inner child work, and how these things showed Katja how she can reparent herself. ...
2024-05-1621 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastKelley Coleman - Pushing Back Against an Incorrect AAC EvaluationThis week, Rachel interviews Kelley Coleman, speaker, author, and advocate! Kelley talks about her family’s AAC journey and her role as the mother of Aaron, a complex communicator in the 4th grade who uses AAC to communicate. She shares about her new book, Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child, as well as some of the high- and lowlights of her family’s AAC journey, including when Aaron’s school SLP suggested he go from high-tech AAC to a picture flip book!
Before the interview, Rachel shares about turning a client's question...
2024-03-091h 14
Pronunciation Pro47. Mastering English for Career Growth and LeadershipDo you feel like your English is holding you back in your career?
Do you have the expertise but need the confidence to match it?
Learn all about how to take the next steps in your English journey and how to use that to help you gain greater confidence in your career and life goals.
Join Pronunciation Pro and get access to a powerful Masterclass led by Chris Rush, where he will go even further in-depth on specific action items you can take.
...
2024-02-2735 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastCaitlin Armstrong: Writing a Persuasive AAC Initiative Proposal for School District AdminsThis week, Chris has a discussion with Caitlin Armstrong, an SLP in New Hampshire who contacted Chris asking about writing up an AAC Initiative proposal for her K-5 school district! Chris breaks down how she should approach the mission statement, ideas for making a more persuasive argument, and things to avoid (e.g. too much research up front).
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel talk about the AI Reading Coach at coach.microsoft.com. It is similar to the Reading Coach that is part of the Immersive Reader tool embedded in Microsoft Word, and allows p...
2024-02-2359 min
Keys for SLPsKeys to Neurodiversity Affirming Dynamic Assessment Strategies for SLPsGuest: Chris Wenger, MS, CCC-SLP - Chris will explore key strategies for neurodiversity-affirming assessments in this one-hour conversational audio course podcast. Designed to equip speech therapists with key strategies and understanding for serving neurodivergent populations, this audio course dives into foundational concepts of neurodiversity and its critical role in assessments. It also addresses how to recognize and counteract biases in standardized assessments that may lead to inaccurate outcomes and stigmatize neurodivergent individuals. The course wraps up with an introduction to a dynamic assessment methodology, equipping clinicians with perspectives that encourage a comprehensive understanding of their students, enhance well-being, and...
2023-11-101h 04Talking With Tech AAC PodcastMcKinzee Steve, Danielle Welge, & Kendra Everette (Part 2): Providing High-Tech AAC as a Tier 2 Early Childhood InterventionThis week, we share Part 2 of Chris’s interview with McKinzee Steve, Danielle (Dani) Welge, and Kendra Everette, three members of the AAC Team for a large school district in Texas! In the second half of this interview, they talk about interactive trainings they have created for their district; ideas for getting admin support for AAC programs, and their new project, a series of tier 2 supports for their self-contained early childhood special ed classrooms that includes AAC apps and iPads for every student and teacher!
Before the interview, Chris shares a fantastic AI tool that wil...
2023-11-0951 minThe Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention90 What Does Improv Have To Do With Parenting? EVERYTHING!! with Chris TrewHey Friends,
Have you ever considered that IMPROV helps us to be better listeners? How about that we parent better? What if IMPROV gives parents the space to think and interact differently with their kids?
It's true.
Improv improves listening skills for parents and kids! This is a practical application to all communication. Improv isn’t just for laughter. It’s not just for comedy. Improve creates better listeners that are more present, more engaged, more joyful, and less stressed.
Today you will learn the technique, “Yes, and ” from our guest, Chris Trew. ...
2023-10-2331 minThe Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention90 What Does Improv Have To Do With Parenting? EVERYTHING!! with Chris TrewHey Friends,
Have you ever considered that IMPROV helps us to be better listeners? How about that we parent better? What if IMPROV gives parents the space to think and interact differently with their kids?
It's true.
Improv improves listening skills for parents and kids! This is a practical application to all communication. Improv isn’t just for laughter. It’s not just for comedy. Improve creates better listeners that are more present, more engaged, more joyful, and less stressed.
Today you will learn the technique, “Yes, and ” from our guest, Chris Trew. ...
2023-10-2331 min
Interval DrinksThe Rocky Horror Show: Live!In the velvet darkness of the blackest night... burning bright, there's a guiding star... no matter WHAT or WHO you are! We're thrilled to present our second ever live episode, with our beautifully squiffy audience in tow, live from the Vox Box. One fantastic quote from one particular audience member which we feel sums up the classic cult musical entirely and perfectly, "A LOT OF GAYS LIKE IT!" ...sunshine, we couldn't agree more!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, Hull. Cheers! x
2023-09-2917 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastKimberly Neely: The Trauma-Informed SLPThis week, we share Rachel’s interview with "The Trauma-Informed SLP", Kimberly Neely! Kim and Rachel have a fascinating discussion about some of the neurological and physiological changes caused by traumatic experiences. They also cover the difference between repeated vs chronic trauma, why some people with chronic trauma have trouble with interoception (i.e.. identifying how they feel), the importance of feeling safe, and more!
Before the interview, Rachel shares about deciding to create some new materials about self advocacy, including social stories that discuss body parts using core language. She also relates this week’s int...
2023-09-221h 04Interval DrinksWizard of Oz: Live!DING, DONG, the Witch is dead... or is it the Bitch is Back? Either way, we are utterly over that darned rainbow to show you our first episode filmed from our Interval Drinks: Live! event at the Vox Box in Hull! We had such a great time with our audience, especially discussing this beloved musical... with a ha-ha-ha, a ho-ho-ho, and of course a couple of tra-la-las!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, Hull. Cheers! x
2023-09-0120 minInterval DrinksParadeWell, hey sunshine! It's time for our latest episode to land, and this one we go DEEP into discussion - it's Jason Robert Brown's (be still, SLP's beating heart...) 'Parade', a cracking work that has just finished a raved-about revival stint on Broadway... and that's big news!!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, Hull. Cheers! x
2023-08-2626 minInterval DrinksHonk!Somewhere out there (we don't know where!), someone will care - they're gonna love ya, WARTS AND ALL! And ladies and gents, we love our new podcast episode despite it all, the brilliant Stiles & Drewe adaptation of HCA's 'the Ugly Duckling'... it's HONK!
The pair are delighted to be back and chatting (or should we say quacking?) about this farmyard bonanza, and are ready to wallow in that pond (as Chris so poetically puts it!). Jump in and join - but careful not to splash!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of...
2023-08-1121 minInterval DrinksMy Fair LadyPull out the stopper, LET'S 'AVE A WHOPPER! It's only the bloomin' MY FAIR LADY episode, ladies and germs! Cor lummy...
This is considered one of the classiest classics there is, and Chris & SLP dive right in the deep end with this favourite show of theirs. And, wiv a little bit o' luck, it might become one of your faves too before the end of the episode! Give it a gander and see for yourself!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, Hull. Cheers! x
2023-08-0424 minInterval DrinksJesus Christ SuperstarTell the rabble to be quiet, we anticipate a riot! Chaps, it's "JEEESUS CHRIIIIIST... SUUUUUPERSTAAAAAAAR" time!!
Join the pair as they encounter one of *the* most controversial musicals out there, from its ground-breaking concept album to the worldwide riots over its performance rights. Prove to us that you're no fool, walk across OUR swimming pool... of podcast entertainment! (No? No. I'll get m'coat.)
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, Hull. Cheers! x
2023-07-2126 minInterval DrinksAnnieHEY hobo man, HEY Dapper Dan, you've both got your style - but brother, you're never fully dressed without a SMILE! And we are here, folks, to bring a smile to your face this week as we discuss all things 'Annie'!
Maybe far away (or maybe real nearby) we'll hear about how Miss Hannigan really does have a point, some comparisons between filmed versions of the show (and why some are vastly superior to others COUGH COUGH), what Chris wants more than anything else in the world, AND find out why SLP insists on being followed around...
2023-07-1421 minInterval DrinksMoulin Rouge!Hello, hey Joe... you wanna give it a go?! Well, come along inside, and welcome... to the MOULIN ROUGE!
Chaps, Chris & SLP get WELL deep with this one. Some utter disagreements take place, controversial opinions galore, as well as some serious topics that they offer their tuppence-worth on! And why? Because it's our podcast, and we CAN CAN CAN!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, Hull. Cheers! x
2023-07-0822 minInterval DrinksCalamity JaneBeautiful sky, a wonderful day - OH, whip crack-a-way, whip crack-a-way, WHIP CRACK-A-WAY! We've arrived in the charming town of Deadwood, ready to talk about the truly calamitous Canary, a-Miss Calamity Jane!
Join your fave twosome as they don some pretty horrendous accents, argue on who the characters are, turn some chairs into a Chippendale and fondly reminisce on pretty much every song in this beautiful show. At last! Our heart's an open door... and our secret love's no secret anymore!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available...
2023-06-2320 minInterval DrinksChitty Chitty Bang BangThis is living! This is style! This is elegance by the MILE, dear Interval Drinkers, and this can only be, the ONE and ONLY, our fine four-fendered friend... CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG! Join your tipsy twosome as we chat about one of the most beloved family musicals of all time in our tenth episode of Season Two: Live at the Vox Box.
Chris and SLP TOOT-le along, with discussion ranging from the brilliant Sherman Brothers writing duo, the various contraptions and capabilities of the car, and the dastardly darkness of the Child-Catcher. And... is...
2023-06-1622 minInterval DrinksSweeney ToddLadies and Gentlemen, may I have your attention per-lease! For it is time for us to ATTEND THE TALE of SWEENEY TODD... poor thing.
Chris & SLP are back for their ninth episode of the season, and are ready to dive headfirst into their first full Sondheim episode (HOW it's managed to go this long, we do not know! But thank goodness we're here, eh!! Heaven knows we try, sir), talking all things Todd, Turpin and turmoil. But don't worry... nothing's gonna harm you, darling...
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube...
2023-06-0920 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastCoaching Call with Sarah Seiger: AAC at a Nonpublic/Nonprofit SchoolThis week, we share Chris’s coaching call with Sarah Seiger! Sarah is an SLP at a nonpublic/nonprofit school in Cleveland, OH that supports students with complex needs from multiple local school districts. Sarah is trying to develop more processes for her school’s efforts to get more students AAC, including questions about trialing, collaboration with teachers, modeling, and more!
Before the interview, Rachel and Chris have a lively chat about Rachel’s social media following, and why Rachel’s analytics indicate that posts supporting literacy for AAC users often do not get as much engag...
2023-06-071h 17Interval DrinksCabaretWilkommen! Bienvenue! WELCOME!! Now, DON'T TELL MAMA - but it's time for our much-anticipated CABARET episode (hurrah huzzah, how utterly too, too divine)! We had such a blast chatting all things Kander and Ebb with this marvellous musical, and if we're honest, IT COULDN'T PLEASE ME MORE. So, meine Damen und Herren, Medames et Messieurs, Ladies and Gentlemen... please join us in our glitzy glamorous chat, and join in the convo!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, Hull. Cheers! x
2023-05-2625 minInterval DrinksChildren of EdenLET THERE BE... an episode all about Schwartz's 'Children of Eden'! Well, your wish is our command - we've got an itching on the tips of our fingers, and a boiling in the back of our brains, all ready to chat about this gorgeous musical creation.
See your favourite pair getting absolutely LOST IN THE WILDERNESS with this Biblical retelling, discussing the beautiful score, gorgeous narrative aspects and themes of humanity and family presented in this musical. AIN'T IT GOOD!?
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy...
2023-05-1921 minInterval DrinksCatsAs Chris so expertly puts it, "From big cats... to little cats!" Folks, we're chatting CATS this week - practical, dramatical, pragmatical, fanatical... THE LOT!
Join these two knockabout clowns / quick-change comedians as they delve into some controversial opinions regarding the arguably divisive Lloyd Webber show, the filmed stage version and the recent film adaptation - no holds barred.
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, Hull. Cheers! x
2023-05-1224 minInterval DrinksThe Lion KingFrom the day we arrived on this planet, and blinking, stepped into the sun... we knew we wanted to chat about this musical!! AIN'T NO PASSING CRAZE!
Yes, at long last, Chris and SLP have been able to dive head-first into the savannah to talk all things 'Lion King'; the film, the musical, the sequels, the prequels, the adaptations, the sources... the lot! I say "Kahlúa", you say "Matata" (hic) Enjoy!!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, H...
2023-05-0524 minInterval DrinksThe Book of MormonHELLO! My name is... hang on... can't quite remember at this stage of... the drinking... but we DO remember our tipsy chat about one of our own naughty faves, The Book of Mormon!
Join us as we go TWO BY TWO into the world of the South Park writers - Parker, Lopez and Stone - and spill the beans on this wonderfully obscene show (explicit content advised!!) Please don't TURN IT OFF... as I BELIEVE you're in for a right slurry treat!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now...
2023-04-1421 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastKristina Edie, Erica Sauer, Joy Mockbee, & Bernadette Wiley: Exploring the Specific Language System First Approach (Part 2)This week, we share Part 2 of Chris’s conversation with Kristina Edie (SLP), Erica Sauer (Director of Special Programs), Joy Mockbee (OT), and Bernadette Wiley (PT/AAC) with Hancock County Schools in West Virginia. They continue to talk with Chris about the Specific Language System First approach and how it might work for their district, including how to choose the “tier 1/2” device that you give every AAC user.
Before the interview, Rachel shares about working with a new client who has had some difficulty with implementation over the last 5 years with other therapists. Her client’s school...
2023-04-1453 minInterval DrinksLes MisérablesDo you hear the people sing? Or do you just hear Chris and SLP having a right ol' natter about Les Miz, the longest-running show (to date!) from our beloved West End?!
This week these two have decided to finally open the can of French worms (ew...) and delve into, arguably, one of the most popular shows EVER. So, welcome Monsieur, sit yourself down, pour yourself a 'Les Fizz'... the time is now! The day is here!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media...
2023-04-0724 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastKristina Edie, Erica Sauer, Joy Mockbee, & Bernadette Wiley: Exploring the Specific Language System First Approach (Part 1)This week, we share Part 1 of Chris’s conversation with Kristina Edie (SLP), Erica Sauer (Director of Special Programs), Joy Mockbee (OT), and Bernadette Wiley (PT/AAC) with Hancock County Schools in West Virginia. They talk about the AAC journey their district has gone on that led them to asking Chris to help them understand the Specific Language System First approach and how it might work for them.
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel talk about an email that Rachel sent to her email list about using slang with AAC that was offensive to a rea...
2023-04-0749 minInterval DrinksLittle Shop of HorrorsLook out, look out, look out, LOOK OUT! Chris and SLP have landed somewhere that's green, and they've got your number now... you've got no place to hide... you've got nowhere to run... Guess you're gonna have to sit back and relax with their latest podcast instalment, the one and only Little Shop of Horrors!
Pull up a pew and join the pair as they discuss one of their firm faves, with a mixture of sweet understanding and simultaneously getting off on the pain they inflict (educationally speaking). Or, maybe you should run while...
2023-03-3130 minInterval DrinksWest Side StorySomething's coming......... it's only your ol' tipsy thesbian pals, Chris and SLP! They're back, bigger and better than ever before!!
Join the squiffy pair as they open their much anticipated 'Season Two: Live at the Vox Box' with one of their most requested musicals to date: West Side Story. But this time, they have LIGHTS, they have CAMERAS, and they have... ACTION!
Audio podcast and filmed YouTube episodes now available, courtesy of Storyboard Media and the Vox Box bar, Hull.
WE'RE BACK, BABY! Cheers! x
2023-03-2427 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastDr. Theresa Bartolotta: Supporting AAC for People with Rett SyndromeThis week, Rachel interviews Dr. Theresa Bartolotta, an SLP who is a parent to Lisa, a young girl with Rett syndrome. Dr. Bartolotta is co-author of the recently published Rett Syndrome Communication Guidelines and serves as consultant on communication to the International Rett Syndrome Foundation (ISRF). Dr. Bartolotta shares about putting together the Rett Syndrome Communication Guidelines, her journey as a parent of a child with Rett, and the IRSF’s mission to spread the word about Rett to more SLPs, teachers, and families.
Before the interview, Rachel and Chris chat about Chris’s GIPHY.com channel, using...
2023-03-0941 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastSarah Lockhart: Using Requesting to Teach New Communication FunctionsThis week, Rachel has a coaching call with Sarah Lockhart, an SLP and host of the SLP Happy Hour podcast! They discuss a case study of a 5 year old nonspeaking boy who uses an AAC device to communicate. Sarah and Rachel discuss concerns that he is “stuck at requesting”, since he typically only makes requests during therapy. Rachel shares how we can lean into those requests and elicit communication using those high-interest topics.
Before the interview, Chris shares with Rachel about his recent trip to Disneyland and some of the thoughts he had during the trip...
2023-02-221h 06Talking With Tech AAC PodcastJennifer Hyles: Creating Materials That Better Reflect AAC UsersThis week, Rachel interviews the artist behind the Instagram account @drawntoaac, Jennifer Hyles! Along with being an amazing artist, Jennifer is also an SLP who specializes in supporting AAC users! Jennifer and Rachel talk all about Jennifer’s journey getting started creating Drawn to AAC, why Jennifer was motivated to create clip art that depicts diverse AAC users in a variety of settings, and more!
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel discuss using our client/student’s highly specific interests to create more motivating activities and materials. Rachel shares about one of her clients who is ve...
2023-02-0337 min
The NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 38: Busting 5 Common Autism Myths"Autism is a disease that needs to be cured"... incorrect.
"Autism only occurs in boys"... untrue.
There are so many common misconceptions about autism out there. And despite all the research to debunk these myths, they still persist. So this week on Making the Shift, Chris and I are going to sit down and bust 5 common autism myths.
2023-02-0219 min
The NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 36: Why We Should Step Away from Functioning Labels & What to Say InsteadAutistic Adults have long spoken out against the harm caused by functioning labels like “severe autism” or “low-functioning” autism. Imagine if we described neurotypical individuals this way.
Are you mildly or severely neurotypical? Autism is a neurotype. Using terms like mildly or severely autistic does not give us any information on that child's needs or the support we can provide.
This week on Making the Shift, Chris and I are going to talk about the reasons we should step away from functioning labels and what we SHOULD say instead.
On this episode, we're discussi...
2023-01-1914 min
The NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 29: Writing Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy GoalsThe number ONE question Chris and I are asked weekly is... "How do I write neurodiversity affirming goals for my autistic students?"
Watch the show to discover our favorite ND affirming goals for therapy.
In this episode, we'll talk about:
✔ How to write neurodiversity affirming goals
✔ What to do when we inherit goals that are not ND affirming
✔ Suggestions for ND affirming goals for different age groups
✔ And more... To learn more about Chris's ND Affirming IEP Course with a list of goals, visit www.speechdude.com
2022-11-1734 min
The NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 22: Using Strengths-Based Language to Build Positive Self-IdentityKnowing how to reframe with strengths-based language can help your speech kids build positive self-identity and bring joy to parents & families.
In this episode, you'll discover:
- Why reframing with strengths-based language is so important for your kids and families
- "What" commonly used harmful words and phrases often go unnoticed
- "How" you can reframe your language to be more positive and neurodiversity affirming
- Specific examples of how to use these (eg, "say this" instead of "that")
Want to dive deeper into how to integrate...
2022-10-0624 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastGemma White: Teaching Personal Safety Awareness to AAC UsersThis week, Rachel invites Gemma White back to TWT to talk about personal safety awareness and self advocacy for AAC users. Gemma recently gave a presentation at AAC in the Cloud, “Where is the Penis?: Equipping AAC Users to Discuss Personal Safety Awareness with Personal Safety Curriculum”. Gemma talks about this presentation, why words like “penis” and “vagina” should be in AAC users devices, ways that we can collaborate to support personal safety awareness, and other ways that we can empower AAC users to protect themselves from neglect and abuse.
Before the interview, Rachel and Chris discuss...
2022-09-2959 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastTami Altschuler - Improving AAC Access and Training in the HospitalThis week, Chris interviews Tami Altschuler, a medical-based SLP and graduate instructor who focuses on supporting AAC and communication in the hospital setting. She shares about her journey helping the doctors and nurses understand that communication is a medical necessity, and the patient and employee satisfaction improvements that have come from better supporting communication and AAC access for every patient that needs it.
Before the interview, Rachel and Chris discuss one of Rachel’s clients who has optical nerve damage that makes visual processing difficult. The family is concerned that he is not able to acce...
2022-09-231h 09
The NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 19: ADHD Life Hacks for Relationships & CommunicationLet's pull back the curtain on ADHD, relationships, and communication styles & techniques...
Here’s what we’ll talk about:
✔ Chris’s story growing up as an ADHD kid (the bumps, the bruises and the victories)...
✔ The ADHD life hacks that have helped him survive and thrive…
✔ What it’s like for me (a neurotypical woman) to be in a relationship with an ADHDer…
✔ How we’ve learned to communicate more effectively with each other…
2022-09-0850 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastSean Sweeney (Part 1): Experiences of an SLP Jeopardy ContestantThis week, we present Part 1 of Chris’s interview with Sean Sweeney! Sean is a Speech-Language Pathologist and founder of SpeechTechie.com, a website that focuses on the intersection of speech therapy and technology. In Part 1 of this interview, Sean discusses his recent appearance on the game show Jeopardy and some of the insider information he got as a contestant!
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel make some connections between Sean’s appearance on Jeopardy, including the similarities between the Jeopardy committee that decides if a question was answered correctly and the need for a team b...
2022-08-2540 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastKim Hurley & Jessica Conrad (Part 2): Involving Stakeholders in the Selection of a Tier 1 AAC SystemThis week, we present Part 2 of Chris’s conversation with Kim Hurley and Jessica Conrad about the Specific Language System First Approach! Kim Hurley is an SLP and AAC Specialist who is considering moving her district to the Specific Language System First Approach. Jessica Conrad is an SLP and AAC Specialist who works for the Indiana PATINS project supporting AAC users and their circle of support. In Part 2, Chris, Kim, and Jessica continue to breakdown some of Kim and Jessica’s concerns with implementing the Specific Language System Approach, including failing to notice when a student needs a more indi...
2022-08-1753 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastKim Hurley & Jessica Conrad (Part 1) - Preparing to Implement the Specific Language System First ApproachThis week, we present Part 1 of Chris’s conversation with Kim Hurley and Jessica Conrad about the Specific Language System First Approach! Kim Hurley is an SLP and AAC Specialist who is considering moving her district to the Specific Language System First Approach. Jessica Conrad is an SLP and AAC Specialist who works for the Indiana PATINS project supporting AAC users and their circle of support. Chris, Kim, and Jessica explore some of Kim and Jessica’s concerns with moving towards a Specific Language System First Approach, and how those problems can be minimized or avoided.
Be...
2022-08-1141 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastBilingüe AAC (Part 2): Taking a Bilingual Approach to AAC ImplementationThis week, we present Part 2 of Rachel’s interview with Alma Partida (@aacforyouandme on Insta), Sarah Lee (@aac_together), Melissa Tapia (@hablame_de_language), and Maria De Leon (@code.switch.slp) about Bilingüe AAC, a platform that supports evidence-based, culturally affirming Spanish AAC. In this segment of the interview, the Bilingüe AAC team provides lots of useful information, including research that supporst bilingualism for AAC users, some of the myths of bilingual AAC, and information you can share with families who are hesitant to teach an AAC user two languages. To listen to Part 1 of this interview, clic...
2022-06-3047 min
The NeuroAffirm PodcastEp. 6: How to Ask Better Questions & Get Better Therapy OutcomesEver start a session thinking, “Alright, we’re going to make progress today!” only to end up asking yourself, “Why does this [negative result] keep happening?” Then jump in with me and Chris as we talk about some ways you can guide your approach with intentional questions that result in better outcomes and boosted morale for you and families. In this week’s live, we’re going to dive into: ✔ The flawed perception we therapists commonly have regarding outcomes in our sessions. ✔ How OUR own thinking patterns can get in the way of progress during sessions. ✔ Some creative ways to change the intern...
2022-06-0321 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastSarah Lockhart: Choosing Motivating Therapy Targets to Maximize Spontaneous Language (Part 2)This week, we share Part 2 of Rachel’s interview with SLP and host of the SLP Happy Hour podcast, Sarah Lockhart! They continue their discussion of Sarah’s clients, including a nonverbal client who uses lots of scripts to communicate. Rachel shares ideas for how to choose targets for therapy, why we should be modeling language that is important to the AAC user, and how motivating materials during AAC assessment can help get a better picture of his or her true ability.
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel finish answering the question from last week about...
2022-04-2052 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastSarah Lockhart: How AAC Supports Greater Spontaneous Language for People with Echolalia (Part 1)This week, Rachel interviews Sarah Lockhart, an SLP and host of the SLP Happy Hour podcast. Sarah had questions about providing AAC to a student who has limited spontaneous communication but used lots of scripts. Rachel and Sarah discuss the importance of supporting independent communication for echolalic students, how AAC benefits these students by providing visual word choices with auditory feedback, and more!
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel discuss a listener question about a student with a complex medical history, including CVI, who uses an eye gaze system. Rachel and Chris touch on how t...
2022-04-1452 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastStacy Maijala - Streamlining AAC Evaluations with Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)This week, Chris interviews Stacey Maijala, an SLP who recently started a new AT Specialist position in Michigan that supports 13 school districts and five transition programs. Stacey had lots of questions for Chris about creating a lending library for technology, providing AT and AAC to everyone through Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), informing teachers about Tier 1 resources (i.e. resources available to everyone without the need for an evaluation or special education eligibility), and more!
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel discuss a patreon users question - is it OK to choose one particular AAC s...
2022-03-231h 10Talking With Tech AAC PodcastTracy Kovach: Re-Defining the Role of AAC Professionals (Part 1)This week, Chris interviews the Tracy Kovach, an SLP and AAC specialist with a wealth of experience working as an SLP supporting complex communication needs. She shares about working with AAC when it was in its early years, the important of training communication partners, how SLPs and other professionals can advocate for changes in their profession, and more!
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel have a fascinating discussion about Lego Braille Bricks (legobraillebricks.com), a service that provides free Lego Braille sets to help teach Braille to people with visual impairments. Chris shares about how t...
2022-03-1055 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastJenifer Eaton & Marya Haff (Part 1): Collaborating Effectively with ABA ProvidersThis week, Rachel interviews Jenifer Eaton & Marya Hoff, two BCBAs who own Rooted in Play, an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practice in Orange County, California. Rachel shares about her experiences working with Jenifer and Marya to support one of her students, and why Rachel felt Jenifer and Marya were great examples of ABA and and SLP working together effectively to support language development and spontaneous utterance generation.
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel talk about their upcoming pre-conference at ATIA (find out more at) and some of the things that Chris is excited for at t...
2022-01-1940 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastMichaela Ball: Is an AT Certification Worth It?This week, Chris chats with Michaela Ball, TWT’s Audio Engineer & SLP Grad Student, about getting a certification in Assistive Technology while she finishes her Master’s degree. They have a lively discussion about why Chris thinks that the time and money spent on AT certification could be better spent on other kinds of professional development.
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel discuss a recent experience Chris had in a classroom of young students playing Minecraft, including using Immersive Reader to read text in the game and learning about coding while playing Minecraft.
2021-11-2834 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastBeth Poss & Tonya Williams-Walker: Improving Equity for AAC UsersThis week, Chris interviews Tonya Williams-Walker and Beth Poss about improving equity for AAC users. Tonya is an Instructional Specialist, AAC Specialist, AAC professor, and SLP. Beth is an author, SLP, AAC Specialist, and Director of Educational Programs for LessonPix. Beth, Toyna, and Chris discuss the meaning of equity, how equity is different from equality, ways that we can improve equity for AAC users, and how they have adjusted their own practices to confront biases surrounding people with complex communication needs.
Before the interview, Rachel and Chris discuss some of Rachel's concerns with the amount of time t...
2021-06-091h 04
Honeybee Connection Podcast by MBThe Way We Speak with MBDISCLAIMER: Dr. Megan-Brette Hamilton produced this podcast in her own personal capacity. The views expressed are her own and do not necessarily represent the views of any organization with which she is affiliated.In season one's final episode of Honeybee Connection by MB, I talk with you, my listener :)In this short episode, I recap on some of the lessons learned and validated throughout the season. I let listeners know that MB's 5 For the Hive will be out this summer, so look for it! And that season two will be airing in January. a...
2021-06-0813 minHoneybee Connection Podcast by MBHow Come You Don't Look Like Grandpa? with Lisa McGuireDISCLAIMER: Dr. Megan-Brette Hamilton produced this podcast in her own personal capacity. The views expressed are her own and do not necessarily represent the views of any organization with which she is affiliated.In this episode of HBC podcast by MB, I talk with childhood friend Lisa McGuire. I met her in 7th grade and remember having the most fun ever at her bat mitzvah! Like my previous guests, Lisa shares with me the intimate stories that made her who she is today, a woman who has a strong sense of self. Lisa was born in Seoul...
2021-04-0642 minHoneybee Connection Podcast by MBLanguage is Musical with Chris LoveDISCLAIMER: Dr. Megan-Brette Hamilton produced this podcast in her own personal capacity. The views expressed are her own and do not necessarily represent the views of any organization with which she is affiliated.In this episode of HBC podcast by MB, I talk to childhood friend, Chris Love. Our engaging conversation leads me to highlight the connection between language and music and how Blackness is not one-dimensional. Chris Love is a tribal attorney and unapologetic reproductive justice advocate. Chris has dedicated her entire legal career to serving tribal governments and enterprises in Arizona and throughout t...
2021-01-1238 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastCoaching Call w/ Michaela Ball: Supporting a Severely Apraxic Emergent Communicator (Part 2)This week, we continue with part 2 of Chris and Rachel’s coaching call with TWT’s Audio Engineer & SLP grad student, Michaela Ball! Michaela continues to discuss her severely apraxic student who is a multi-modal communicator with Rachel and Chris. They continue to explore the importance of picking a larger iPad when possible, ways to promote direct selection skills, choosing motivating vocabulary to start with, and how to train staff and communication partners.
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel discuss the “Pygmalion effect” and the ways that belief in someone can promote greater performance from that pers...
2020-12-1649 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastCoaching Call w/ Michaela Ball: Supporting a Severely Apraxic Emergent CommunicatorThis week, we share a coaching call between Chris, Rachel, and our amazing Audio Engineer & SLP grad student, Michael Ball! Michaela asks the TWT team about a severely apraxic student she is working with who is a multi-modal communicator. With limited therapy time with this student, should Michaela focus more of her time on implementing a device, using sign language, or promoting verbal speech? How can she promote AAC best during the school day?
Before the interview, Rachel shares with Chris about a another apraxic student she recently consulted with. Rachel talks about her approach t...
2020-12-0943 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastSmall Talks 4: Candice Steel, Chris Ramirez, Monique Madrid, Sarah Gregory, and TJ HaleyThis week, TWT presents four more short interviews, aka "small talks", covering a variety of topics related to AAC and Assistive Technology!
Before the interviews, Rachel talks about a contentious IEP she recently attended for a student she consults with. Rachel had some ideas about supporting literacy that she shared with the team, but the team was resistant to Rachel’s input as an SLP and didn’t seem interested in changing any goals. Chris shares about a situation early in his career where he was told SLPs “don’t do reading” - but those same people...
2020-12-0354 minInterval DrinksHamiltonOKAY. IT'S HERE. You asked, we gave. Here are Chris and SLP discussing as-many-things-as-they-can-remember about Lin Manuel Miranda's American sensation, 'Hamilton' - whilst chugging down a 'Think less, DRINK MORE' cocktail and taking a shot every time a particular someone is mentioned...!
2020-11-2028 minInterval DrinksThe Last Five YearsChris and SLP dive into the world of Jason Robert Brown with his acclaimed duo piece, 'The Last Five Years' - which ends up with SLP fangirl-ing for the majority of the time - whilst sipping on one of their smoothest cocktails yet, titled 'Nobody Needs to Know'... make of that what you will!!
2020-11-1326 minInterval DrinksRentChris and SLP discuss one of Chris' favourite ever musicals, 'RENT!'
To help them along, you'll hear them sipping to the very appropriate accompanying cocktail, 'Over the moooooooon'! MOO WITH ME!!
2020-11-0624 minInterval DrinksThe Sound of MusicChris and SLP return to rave about the Rodgers & Hammerstein absolute CLASSIC, 'The Sound of Music'! Accompanied by their aptly-named cocktail, 'How do you solve a problem like TIA MARIA'... well, have a listen for yourself!
An audience QUIZ is included this week, so have you pens and paper at the ready!
2020-10-3021 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastStephen Kneece: Making Core Word & Speech Therapy Music VideosThis week, TWT presents Chris’s interview with SLP, AT Specialist, and founder of Speech and Language Songs, Stephen Kneece! During the interview, Chris and Stephen discuss his work as a professor teaching AAC, as President-Elect of SCSHA, and how he founded a Youtube channel playing his original songs, including many songs targeting core words.
Before the interview, Rachel and Chris talk about how they are promoting AAC during AAC Awareness Month. Check out Chris’s Inclusive Technology Spotlight here: http://bit.ly/lcpsaac. Rachel also shares about the new packet of resources she created to hel...
2020-10-2253 minInterval DrinksAnything GoesChris & SLP just about manage to navigate their way through Cole Porter's brassy hit, 'Anything Goes'... accompanied by their fanciest cocktail yet, 'You're the POP!'
(Not that they'll be able to taste anything by now...)
2020-10-1621 minInterval DrinksCome From AwayChris & SLP become pirates, Revolve-critics and manage to wander completely off-topic at times when discussing Sankoff and Hein's masterful one-act-er, 'Come From Away'.
! WARNING - the cocktail title for this week is particularly explicit (as pulled from the show itself), so don't listen if easily offended! You have been warned!
2020-10-0921 minInterval DrinksWaitressChris & SLP stumble through discussing Bareilles' 'Waitress', accompanied by a 'Bad Idea' cocktail from Chris... which is indeed as toxic as it sounds!
2020-10-0222 minInterval DrinksThe Phantom of the OperaChris & SLP slur their way through ALW's 'POTO', accompanied with a fairly dangerous 'Sweet Intoxication' cocktail.
2020-09-2529 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastShawnda Saul: Telepractice AAC Coaching for Teachers, Parents, and StaffThis week, Chris interviews Shawnda Saul, an SLP and AAC Specialist who runs the Learning Language AAC Initiative for Arlington Public Schools. Chris and Shawnda discuss how she promotes modeling and language instruction in the classroom, her approach to coaching communication partners, the changes she has seen coaching families during distance learning, and more!
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel talk about rethinking how we educate students. Teaching is still thought of as presenting information to a class from the front of the classroom and having students spit that information back on a test. For e...
2020-09-2352 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastLauren Kravetz Bonnet & Brittany Thomas: Short-Term, High-Intensity AAC Intervention in the SchoolsThis week on TWT, we share Chris’s interview with Lauren Kravetz Bonnet, an SLP & AT Specialist, and Brittany Thomas, who is also an SLP. Lauren and Brittany talk about their school-based communication program to support students with complex communication needs. This program is a short-term (i.e., less than two years), high-intensity intervention to teach young students to use their device more effectively. It is not a self-contained program; students get their support in an integrated, general education setting with in-class speech support for a large portion of the day. Lauren and Brittany share about their success with th...
2020-09-161h 16Talking With Tech AAC PodcastAlison Bono: Transitioning from Low Tech to High Tech AACThis week, TWT shares Rachel and Chris’s coaching call with Alison Bono! Alison is an SLP who reached out to Rachel and Chris for help working with a young student with complex communication needs. On the call, Rachel and Chris explore moving from low-tech to high-tech supports, getting teachers on board with a core language approach, integrating core words into routines, motivating the circle of support, and more!
Before the coaching session, Rachel and Chris dive into Rachel’s latest “intensive” approach to supporting clients. During this approach, Rachel had observation and coaching sessions at least o...
2020-09-091h 08Talking With Tech AAC PodcastCara Walton: Action Planning for Anti-Racism and AACThis week, Rachel and Chris interview Cara Walton (@thebuckeyeslp), the author of a recent change.org petition “Demands for ASHA to Increase Cultural Sensitivity.” Cara shares about her experience as a Black woman becoming a speech-language pathologist, what ASHA can do right now to increase cultural sensitivity, and ways that AAC can better support people of color.
Before the interview, Rachel and Chris talk about their previous attempt to discuss anti-racism and AAC on the podcast, how they responded to mistakes they made, and how that response has led to a better understanding of their own c...
2020-06-191h 04Talking With Tech AAC PodcastCarson Covey: AAC User and Future SLPThis week, the TWT team presents Chris’s interview with Carson Covey, social media manager & AAC mentor at Jill Tullman & Associates, ambassador with PRC, and AAC user! Carson shares about changing his AAC system to TouchChat; the importance of having his circle of support use his device; updating AAC devices when sheltering at home; and going to school to become an SLP!
Before the interview, Chris and Rachel play AAC Bingo & score themselves on AAC in their lives, including advocating modeling, using low tech AAC, valuing motor planning, and using AAC memes.
Ke...
2020-05-1351 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastCaitlin Calder: True Confessions of a Parent of an AAC User - Part 2This week, the TWT team presents part 2 of Rachel’s interview with Caitlyn Calder, parent of a child with complex communication needs and SLP at CHI St. Luke’s Health in Houston TX. Caitlin continues to share from all that she has learned about being a parent of an AAC user, including thinking of parents as “co-clinicians”, how she second-guessed herself about her daughter’s progress with her device, how grief can impact family buy-in, and more.
Before the interview, Rachel and Chris talk about running a “virtual 5k” called Sophie’s 5k to help fund devices for p...
2020-04-291h 01Talking With Tech AAC PodcastCaitlin Calder: True Confessions of a Parent of an AAC User - Part 1This week, the TWT team presents part 1 of Rachel’s interview with Caitlyn Calder, parent of a child with complex communication needs and SLP at CHI St. Luke’s Health in Houston TX. Caitlin shares from some of the many lessons she has learned, including working with specialists, teaching her daughter AAC, dealing with expectations that don’t match reality, and navigating the many challenges that complex communication needs can bring.
Before the interview, Rachel and Chris discuss dealing with co-workers and communication partners who are not motivated to provide the best service they can. Ideas f...
2020-04-2256 min
Moonshine, Murder, & MayhemBonus: McMinnville, John High, and the Death CertificateBonus Episode 2: McMinnville, John High, and the Death Certificate
Patricia tells what it was like growing up in McMinnville. She tells a story about John High. We both sit down and discuss Slim's death certificate.
Interview with Patricia Merritt.
Voiceovers: Micheal Licciardi / Jinny Ryan / Bryanna Licciardi
Music: The Whole Other - Beyond the Lows / Chris Haugen - Castleshire / Sextile - Crimson
Mixing / Mastering: Nyquist Audio
Join Us: https://tinyurl.com/s248yv4
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This episode is sponsored by
· Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. h...
2020-03-3010 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastChristine Tripoli & Ellen Mazel - Assessment & Treatment of Cortical Visual ImpairmentThis week on TWT, Chris interviews Christine Tripoli, an SLP with the Deaf/Blind program at Perkins School for the Blind, and Ellen Maisel, Director of Cortical Visual Impairment project at Perkins. They discuss cortical visual impairment (CVI), including what it is and how to look for it.
Before the interview, Chris shares about his discussion on AAC Certification with Marie Ireland, VP of ASHA. Chris wonders if a slippery slope argument (if we let A happen, then Z will happen) is happening with AAC certification and talks about yourlogicalfallacy.com. Marie talked with Chris a...
2020-03-1156 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastATIA 2020 - Part 1: AAC in the Classroom, Visual Scene Displays, & MoreIf you love Talking with Tech, help us develop new content and keep the podcast going! Support our podcast at patreon.com/talkingwithtech!
This week on TWT, we present part 1 of Chris’s interviews from the Assistive Technology Industry Association Conference 2020! Before the interviews, Chris shares some stories from ATIA, including not wanting to be “Creepy Chris” when he saw someone he thought he recognized, having FOMO over all the sessions he couldn’t attend, and how much everyone was talking about about literacy at the conference. Chris also talks about the super fun “AT Family Feud...
2020-02-121h 00Talking With Tech AAC PodcastInterviews from ASHA 2019 - Part 4We need your help to keep Talking with Tech going strong! If you are a loyal listener, please support our podcast at patreon.com/talkingwithtech.
TWT presents the last, but not least, collection of interviews by Rachel recorded at ASHA 2019! Before the interviews, Rachel and Chris talk about some gems from Chris’s upcoming presentations at FETC about inclusive design, flexible learning spaces, and teaching through coding with robots. They also chat about ATIA, where Chris will be doing a pre-conference on writing, an “AT Feud” Family Feud style game, an assistive technology strategy “smackdown” session, and more! Afte...
2020-01-0846 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastInterviews from ASHA 2019 - Part 2We need your help to keep Talking with Tech going strong! If you are a loyal listener, please support our podcast at patreon.com/talkingwithtech.
This week, the TWT team is proud to present more of Rachel’s interviews from ASHA 2019! Before the interviews, Rachel chats with Chris about meeting all of the TWT fans at ASHA, how great it was to be part of something that is helping others, and talking with AAC user Hannah Foley. After that, we hear from:
🔑 Adriana Lavi - Dr. Lavi is the author of the Clinical Assessm...
2019-12-1144 min
True Confessions with Lisa & SarahE26: A positive mindset and a smile can get you what you want.In this episode we have our bestie Chris Wenger aka @speechdude aka 'The Wang' chatting with us about everything from what went down at ASHA, to what it's really like working in a high school, and how to advocate for yourself! We just love this guy and we know you will too!
2019-12-1054 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastMeghan Betz: Improving Collaboration & Communication with Parents & TeachersThis week, Chris interviews SLP and AAC Specialist Meghan Betz about her experiences with AAC and what she has learned about reflective listening, working collaboratively in IEP meetings, working successfully with parents in the home, chunking information for parents & teachers, and more!
Key ideas this week include:
🔑 Rachel & Chris talk iPad stands - Rachel talks about her favorite sturdy and inexpensive iPad stand on Amazon and Chris shares about making iPad stands with 3D printing at thingaverse.com.
🔑 Chris discusses his article for USAAC on using block coding to teach language. Learn mor...
2019-09-2453 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastCarly Stoltenberg: An SLP’s Journey Recovering from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (Part 2)This week on TWT, we share the second half of Rachel’s interview with Carly Stoltenberg! Carly is an SLP who was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) two years ago. At one point in her recovery, Carly was paralyzed and unable to speak. In the second half of the episode, Carly shares what she has learned about valuing the uniqueness of each person in our care, and why honesty about her struggles with GBS has led to greater, more meaningful connections with others!
Key ideas this episode:
🔑There are many ways to acqui...
2019-05-2157 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastCarly Stoltenberg: An SLP's Journey Recovering from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (Part 1)This week on TWT, we air the first half of Rachel's interview Carly Stoltenberg, an SLP who was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome two years ago. At one point in her recovery, Carly was paralyzed and unable to speak. Carly shares her amazing journey to regain her ability to walk and talk, and how this has shaped her passion for positive thinking and patient advocacy!
Key ideas this episode:
🔑The critical need for patients to be able to communicate with medical professionals during treatment.
🔑How Carly used low-tech AAC to communica...
2019-05-1448 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastInterviews from ATIA & FETC: Christine Baudin of "AAC for the SLP", Michael Dicpinigaitis & Mike MarottaOn this week’s episode, Chris talks about his recent tour of the FETC and ATIA conference circuit. Rachel and Chris discuss what it’s like preparing for a big presentation and how to get participants engaged in the material.
In this week’s interviews, Chris has the pleasure of speaking with Christine Baudin (creator of the Facebook Group: “AAC for the SLP”). Chris also talks with amazing high schooler Michael Dicpinigaitis of Jericho Adapts Toys. Finally, Chris speaks with inclusive technology specialist Mike Marotta. Mike shares about his podcast, Inclusive Technology for All, his favorite Ch...
2019-02-1348 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastLive from ASHA - Jill Senner & Matt Baud and Meredith Poore Harold of The Informed SLPThis week, the TWT team presents three live interviews from ASHA with Jill Senner & Matt Baud, Meredith Poore Harold of The Informed SLP, and TWT listener Ashley!
Before the interviews, Rachel and Chris talk about all the great things that happened during Rachel's time speaking, connecting, and learning at ASHA 2018!
Next, we hear from Rachel’s interview at ASHA with Jill Senner & Matt Baud! They briefly discuss Jill & Matt’s talk on parent instruction and partner-augmented input with Kathleen Post, including the importance of pre-testing with video, why we need to move t...
2018-12-0554 minTalking With Tech AAC PodcastJenna Rayburn Kirk: Founder of Speech Room News & Popular TPT ContributorThis week, TWT interviews Jenna Rayburn Kirk, the ultra-creative school-based SLP, blogger, and TPT contributor! Jenna shares about how she got started creating resources, the kinds of AAC resources and materials that she thinks are effective, and how she continues to try and create resources that people really need! Before the interview, Chris and Rachel discuss their own experiences with making materials and, in Rachel’s case, why she recently decided to create a Teachers Pay Teachers page. Rachel and Chris also talk about some apps that they have used recently in therapy, including Choice Works and AR Dragon. Fi...
2018-11-141h 04Talking With Tech AAC PodcastJulie Freed: How to Identify Key Tools for Dynamic Assessment with the APTTalking with Tech is joined this week by Julie Freed, an SLP and school-based AAC specialist who helped create the AAC Planning Tool (APT)! Before the interview, Rachel and Chris discuss two communication assessments, the Continuum of Language Expression (COLE) and the Dynamic AAC Goals Grid (DAGG-2). Chris discusses his role in the creation of the COLE, what they considered when making it, and how it can be helpful when assessing emergent communicators. Rachel follows this with a discussion of the DAGG-2 and how it is similar to, and different from, the Communication Matrix. Rachel and Chris also chat...
2018-10-0351 min