Shows
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastOperationalizing Your Values: Creating Systems to Lighten the Load (and Retain Your SLPs)In this episode, we sit down with Natalie Crow, the trailblazing current Coordinator in Richardson ISD, North Texas. Natalie shares her inspiring journey from feeling isolated and overwhelmed early in her career to building one of the most supportive and sustainable school-based SLP teams around.
Listeners will learn how Natalie turned big ideas into concrete systems — from tailored appraisal tools and intentional goal-setting processes to professional learning communities (PLCs) designed specifically for SLPs. Her approach is rooted in the mantra "many hands make light work," and she shows how shared leadership and collaboration can transform both staff culture and student ou...2025-07-141h 12
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastNot Just Semantics: How Language Shapes Your LeadershipWhat does it take to lead when you don’t have the title, the authority, or the last word? In this episode, Dr. Megan-Brette Hamilton—SLP, professor, qualitative researcher, and ASHA’s Chief Staff Officer for Multicultural Affairs—shares how real influence is built through trust, clarity, and connection.
With experience spanning Brooklyn classrooms, university lecture halls, and national leadership circles, Megan-Brette shows us what it means to design culture from the inside out—through the words we choose, the relationships we build, and the systems we challenge.
In this illuminating conversation, we explore:
- Writing evaluations that allow families to see and...2025-06-121h 07
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastMeasuring What Matters: Student-Centered Progress with PurposeWhat if the data point that mattered most wasn’t 80% accuracy—but your student’s confidence?
In this empowering episode, Hallie Sherman, the dynamic mind behind Speech Time Fun and Speech Retreat, joins us to talk about what progress really looks like in the school-based SLP world.
From reminding us that slow progress is still progress, to helping students tie their communication goals to real-life dreams—like asking someone to prom or making the soccer team—Hallie delivers practical, flexible strategies to meet students where they are.
We dive into:
- Why no-data sessions are still successful sessions
- How to build r...2025-05-2154 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastTrust Isn't Built by Chance: Trauma-Informed Insights for Building Stronger TeamsWhat if the very systems designed to support students and staff are inadvertently causing harm?
In this compelling episode, we sit down with Rachel Archambault, M.A., CCC-SLP—also known as the PTSD SLP—a dedicated speech-language pathologist and trauma-informed care advocate. Rachel shares her personal journey and professional insights into how trauma-informed practices can transform educational environments.
We delve into the six pillars of trauma-informed care: safety, trustworthiness, peer support, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural, historical, and gender considerations. Rachel emphasizes the importance of transparency in leadership, the power of offering choices to foster trust, and the necessity of understanding the...2025-05-121h 09
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP Podcast"Unreasonable Hospitality" in Speech Language Pathology Leadership: Season 2 RecapIn the final episode of Season 2, the hosts reflect on the key lessons from Will Guidara’s book Unreasonable Hospitality, exploring how its principles can transform leadership and communication in educational settings.
Guidara’s approach emphasizes the power of hospitality and how leaders can create exceptional experiences by going above and beyond expectations—building strong relationships with staff, students, and families.
Judy and Nathalie review their key learnings from each Season 2 guest through the themes of fostering trust, encouraging creativity, and empowering teams in public schools speech-language pathology.
They discuss how applying hospitality-focused leadership can promote innovation, improve staff retention, and cu...2025-01-281h 01
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastDemystifying AI for SLPs: Empowering Professionals to Work at the Top of Their LicenseHow can AI transform the way school-based SLPs work?
In this episode, Nathalie and Judy sit down with Rebecca Bishop and Melissa Rajaram to explore the role of artificial intelligence in streamlining administrative tasks like data collection, documentation, and session preparation. By leveraging these tools, SLPs can focus more on impactful, skilled interventions that matter most to their students.
Rebecca and Melissa offer practical insights, real-world examples, and actionable advice for SLP leaders navigating the decision-making process around AI adoption.
Whether you’re curious about AI or looking to lead your team into a tech-forward future, this conversation is packed wi...2025-01-071h 02
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastA Framework for Navigating Challenging Conversations Using Compassionate CommunicationIn this episode, Stephanie Michele Sweigart, Speech Language Pathologist and Teacher of Mindfulness Meditation introduces a transformative framework for navigating difficult conversations with clarity, curiosity, and compassion. Whether you’re delivering hard news to your team, managing up the chain of command, or addressing heightened emotions in the workplace, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to turn conflict into connection.
Discover the power of the observation-feelings-needs-requests framework, a tool that helps you move beyond surface-level words and emotions to uncover the unmet needs driving the conversation. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of staying curious and treating tough discussions like a sc...2024-12-171h 06
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastCreating Great Workplaces for SLPs: What Every School District Needs to HearThe growing shortage of school-based Speech-Language Pathologists isn’t just a hiring challenge—it’s a wake-up call for school districts to rethink how they recruit, support, and retain SLPs.
This episode breaks down the essential ingredients for creating workplaces where SLPs feel valued and empowered to thrive.
Join hosts Nathalie and Judy chat with Perry Flynn as they explore:
🎯 The difference between workload and caseload models—and why it matters.
🎯 Do caseload caps actually help?
🎯 Practical tips for districts to build supportive environments for SLPs.
🎯 The importance of mentorship, professional growth opportunities, and realistic expectations.
🎯 Stories from the trenches: what’s driving SLPs awa...2024-11-191h 06
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastLeading with Heart: Reducing Overwhelm, Storytelling and HopeIn this heartfelt episode, we welcome the inspiring Phuong Palafox, who brings a refreshing perspective on leadership that’s all about reducing overwhelm, sharing stories that resonate, and nurturing hope within school-based SLP teams. Phuong dives into the power of storytelling as a tool for connection, and she shares practical ways leaders can help their teams feel seen, supported, and less overwhelmed. Whether you're navigating the day-to-day challenges of school-based therapy or looking to inspire and uplift those around you, this episode offers invaluable insights on leading with compassion and purpose. Join us for an episode that will leave you fe...2024-11-0558 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastUnlearn, Rethink, & Lead: Neuro-Affirming Practices with Speech Dude, Chris WengerIn this episode, we dive into fresh perspectives with the one and only Chris Wenger—aka Speech Dude! Known for his humor and dynamic approach to school-based SLP, Chris joins us to talk about why it’s time to *unlearn* outdated practices and *rethink* how we approach neuro-affirming care for our students. He shares his insights on SLP leadership, collaborating with educational advocates, and the power of integrating AI tools to streamline our work in schools. Chris even gives us a fun family tip: planning your own “yes day”! Get ready for laughs, deep insights, and practical takeaways that will inspire...2024-10-291h 02
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastLead Like You Mean It Preview with Judy Rich and Nathalie LebrunIn the kickoff episode of LeadSpeak Season 2, titled "Lead Like You Mean It", Judy and Nathalie are back and ready to dive into a fresh season of inspiring conversations for SLP leaders. They start by previewing what’s to come, including introductions to the first three exciting guests who will bring their own unique insights into leadership in the field of speech-language pathology. Judy and Nathalie also take a moment to reflect on Season 1, sharing key takeaways and discussing how the theme of intentional leadership for Season 2 came about. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring one, this episode se...2024-10-2219 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastSeason 1 Rewind: Key Takeaways and Future Sneak PeeksJoin hosts Judy and Nathalie as they take you on a journey through the best moments of Season 1 in this special recap episode of LeadSpeak Podcast. Reflecting on the major themes and invaluable insights shared by our incredible guests, Judy and Nathalie discuss what they've learned and how these lessons have shaped their perspectives on leadership in Speech Language Pathology.
Get ready for an engaging review of key takeaways, heartfelt reflections, and a sneak peek into the exciting plans for Season 2. Whether you're a seasoned listener or just tuning in, this episode is packed with inspiration and motivation to empower...2024-06-1157 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastReal Talk: Leadership in Public Schools is IllusiveJessica Abel is an SLP from the state of New York with leadership experience as a speech-language pathologist , campus assistant principal, and a district-wide multidisciplinary leader. Jessica shares how SLPs are uniquely positioned to create meaningful change for all students. Nathalie, Judy, and Jessica share how innovation in public education must be based on "real talk" between clinicians, district decision-makers, and families while always keeping hope for improvement front-and-center in our minds. Jessica shares how using challenging situations (a.k.a. past examples of bad leadership) can mold you into the type of change-maker you want to be.2024-05-2846 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastPart 1: Leading Through Teamwork: Creating Lasting Change Through Expanding SLPs' Influence in Public EducationIn this second part of our two-episode conversation with Speech Language Pathologist Cherry Wright, we embark on a retrospective journey through her diverse professional roles within public education. From department leader to district board member, Cherry's commitment to student success shines through. She shares invaluable advice for SLPs seeking to make a difference, emphasizing the importance of community-building, goal-setting, and celebrating successes together. Cherry also sheds light on the state of public education in Texas and the United States, emphasizing the vital role SLPs play in effecting positive change for students. Join us as we continue to be inspired by...2024-04-3028 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastPart 1: Leading Through Teamwork: Creating Lasting Change Through Expanding SLPs' Influence in Public EducationIn this first part of our two-episode conversation with Speech Language Pathologist Cherry Wright, we embark on a retrospective journey through her diverse professional roles within public education. From department leader to district board member, Cherry's commitment to student success shines through. She shares invaluable advice for SLPs seeking to make a difference, emphasizing the importance of community-building, goal-setting, and celebrating successes together. Cherry also sheds light on the state of public education in Texas and the United States, emphasizing the vital role SLPs play in effecting positive change for students. Join us as we continue to be inspired by...2024-04-3031 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastLeading by Action: Growing as a Leader Through Mentorship & AccountabilityJudy and Nathalie are joined by the remarkable Bethany Whidden, a true representation of action-based leadership. From her beginnings as a campus-based Speech-Language Pathologist, Bethany shares her remarkable journey of growth and advancement into district and regional leadership roles.
Tune in as Bethany shares the pivotal role of volunteer opportunities in her leadership journey, showcasing how they led to mentorship connections and opened doors to new career adventures. Discover the core principles that drive her leadership approach – trust, accountability, proactive problem-solving – and gain valuable insights on the importance of avoiding the temptation to fix everything for everyone every day.2024-04-1643 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastUsing Your Journey to Change Educational Outcomes for StudentsThis week, we sit down with the remarkable JoAnn Wiechmann, a champion for breaking down barriers to leadership opportunities in public education for speech language pathologists. JoAnn shares her insights on how our unique perspective can bring the voices of our students to decision-making tables in every school district, creating impactful change in educational settings. JoAnn opens up about how her Enneagram impacts her leadership approach and collaboration with others. Plus, she gives us an update on how she is "failing" at retirement, offering candid reflections on life beyond employment.2024-03-2641 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastEmpowering Others: Don't Be Dead-Right in LeadershipWe sit down with the dynamic Charlette McRay Green, a seasoned Speech-Language Pathologist turned educational leader. In this illuminating conversation, Charlette shares her transformative journey, navigating the intersection of SLP expertise and diverse leadership roles in public education.
Discover the invaluable lessons Charlette learned along the way, emphasizing the importance of openness and adaptability in leadership. From her experiences, she highlights the significance of assembling a diverse team unafraid to speak up, even if it means pointing out metaphorical broccoli in your teeth.
Tune in as Charlette delves into a poignant life lesson passed down by her mother — the concept of...2024-03-1233 min
LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP PodcastLaunching LeadSpeak: Meet Judy & Nathalie - LeadSpeak Podcast Ep. 1In this inaugural episode, your co-hosts Judy Rich and Nathalie Lebrun take the stage to introduce themselves, sharing their passion for leadership in the field of Speech Language Pathology. Discover the unique journeys that brought them here and gain insights into what drives their commitment to developing the next generation of SLP leaders.
Get ready for an inspiring conversation that sets the tone for the entire season. We'll discuss the vision behind LeadSpeak, the exciting lineup of guests, and the key themes we'll be exploring throughout 'Your Leadership Journey.' Whether you're a seasoned professional, an aspiring leader, or simply...2024-03-1138 min