Shows
Swallow the GapWhen the Walls Come Down: Cognitive Care in Real LifeThis discussion explores what cognitive communication therapy can look like when it moves beyond worksheets and test scores. Guest Lauren Schwabish, an SLP with more than two decades of experience, explains how shifting into community-based practice allowed her to engage patients in more meaningful, real-life problem solving. She describes using self-anchored rating scales, functional observation, and collaborative strategies rather than relying solely on impairment-based models. The episode also touches on managing cognitive fatigue, reframing therapy goals, and addressing persistent myths about neuroplasticity. Listeners will hear practical examples of how SLPs can adapt interventions to match the demands of everyday...
2025-11-2145 min
Way to BeWay To Be: Medical SLPIn this week’s episode of The Way to Be podcast, we hear from Dr. Tim Stockdale, SLPD, CCC-SLP—founder of Gap Education and host of the Swallow the Gap podcast. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Stockdale shares the incredible work he’s doing to advance dysphagia care through his program and offers valuable insight into the essential role of medical SLPs.
2025-11-0632 min
Swallow the GapBeyond the Book: Real Talk About Head and Neck Cancer CareThree head and neck cancer specialists from coast-to-coast share insights that may challenge some traditional dysphagia management approaches. Dr. Carly Barbon (MD Anderson), Dr. Mario Landera (University of Miami), and Dr. Heather Starmer (Stanford) discuss why functional goals are important with this population, the critical importance of shared decision-making, and how quality of life factors like depression and mental health should weigh in for clinical decisions. Through powerful patient stories and practical advice, these expert clinicians reveal what it really means to be a "battle buddy" for head and neck cancer patients. Thanks to financial sponsorship f...
2025-10-0941 min
Swallow the GapBOLUS and Beyond: Advancing Critical Reasoning in DysphagiaThe BOLUS framework helps clinicians move beyond the idea that aspiration always translates to pneumonia by encouraging a critical, multi-factor approach to dysphagia care. Designed for use before, during, and after patient encounters, the framework supports more comprehensive assessment, treatment planning, and interdisciplinary communication.In this episode, Dr. Phyllis Palmer and Aaron Padilla explore the clinical application of the BOLUS framework. Together, we discuss how clinicians can think critically about the many factors influencing dysphagia management, anticipate challenges before meeting the patient, and apply practical strategies to strengthen interdisciplinary communication and provide more individualized treatment.
2025-09-101h 05Swallow the GapLost in Transition: Communication and Continuity of CareWe bring attention to a widespread challenge in clinical care: decisions and recommendation that don’t follow the patient. Whether it’s missing imaging, undocumented rationale, or unclear explanations, these breakdowns in continuity disrupt care, bias clinical judgment, and strip patients of informed choice.Explore what happens when information isn’t transferred in a usable, human-centered way—and how clinicians can bridge the gaps with clearer communication, defensible rationale, and simple tools that empower both patients and providers.Support the showGap Education:https://swallowthegap.comInstagram:http...
2025-05-2943 minSwallow the GapYou Can’t Eat a Stat: The Real Goal of Swallowing Therapy and ResearchThis episode explores the concepts of patient centric care and research—does intervention matter if your patient doesn’t care about it? With insights from decades of clinical practice and research, the guests share strategies for therapy that actually fits real lives.Guests:Dr. Giselle Carnaby, MPH, PhD, CCC-SLP, F-ASHADr. Michael Crary, PhD, F-ASHASupport the showGap Education:https://swallowthegap.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho
2025-04-281h 05
Swallow the GapFrom Old Thinking to New InsightsWith our dedication to our patients, we've gained a deeper understanding of the complexity of swallowing and dysphagia. How can we use these insights to advance SLP education and our own professional growth?Guest: Nicole Wiksten, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-SSupport the...
2025-03-2036 min
Swallow the GapThe Role of Baseline Neurological Health in Swallowing Recovery After StrokeWhat does pre-stroke neurological health have to do with swallowing prognosis, post stroke? In this episode, Dr. Janina Wilmskoetter, Assistant Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina, discusses her recent publication, Cerebral Small Vessel Disease is an Independent Determinant of Dysphagia After Acute Stroke. Join us for insights into clinical implications for patients with dysphagia!For questions, reach out to Dr. Wilmskoetter at wilmskoe@musc.edu, and access the article via https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213158224001517Episode Sponsor: Bracco Diagnostics, the manufacturer of Varibar barium...
2025-02-0636 minSwallow the GapElevating Research Standards in DysphagiaDr. Catriona Steele, president of the Dysphagia Research Society, discusses her journey in dysphagia research, including motivation from her pre-PhD days, and focuses on systematic reviews. She highlights the need for rigorous and transparent methodologies in evaluating research quality, introduces the FRONTIERS framework, and underscores the importance of continual learning and questioning in the field.Episode Resources from Dr. Steele:PRISMA guideline: Moher, D., Liberati, A., Tetzlaff, J., Altman, D. G., & Group, P. (2009). Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. Annals of Internal Medicine, 151(4), 264-269, W264. https://doi...
2024-12-1956 min
Swallow the GapSpecial Edition: 150 Years of Experience, Behind Closed DoorsWhat happens when you get 6 speech pathologists with 150 years of collective experience stuck together in a room? You’ll have to listen to find out! Join Julie Blair, Laurie Sterling, Dr. Deb Suiter, Dr. Barbara Messing, Jo Puntil, and Dr. Tim Stockdale (that’s 1, 2, 3, 4 ASHA fellows!) in a special edition episode, as we enjoy a laid-back evening conversation at the 2024 ASHA Convention in Seattle, Washington. Reflections include Swallowing Cinema, patient choice, and growing through vulnerability. Sponsor:This episode is sponsored by the Milton J Dance Endo...
2024-12-1041 min
Swallow the GapDefining... Dysphagia?Believe it or not, there is extensive variability in how dysphagia is defined. Listen in as Drs. Giselle Carnaby, Debra Suiter, and Martin Brodsky discuss challenges and importance of defining dysphagia. The discussion highlights variability in how dysphagia is understood and defined across research, clinical practice, and healthcare systems. This gap has implications for patient care, reimbursement, and professional credibility. While acknowledging the complexity of the task, the speakers emphasize the progress made, the importance of raising awareness, and some steps needed to create a more cohesive approach to dysphagia research and treatment.Episode Sponsor: Phagenesis -Non-surgical...
2024-11-2136 min
Swallow the GapBridging the Gap: Advancing Education in Pediatric Feeding DisordersJoin us for an insightful discussion with Jaclyn Pederson, CEO of Feeding Matters, as we discuss the critical gaps in education for pediatric feeding disorders. Jaclyn sheds light on the challenges faced by clinicians, who often lack the specialized training needed to manage complex feeding issues in children. Drawing on her background in nonprofit leadership and healthcare innovation, she shares a strategic approach to advocating for improved education and research in this area. This episode calls for meaningful action to enhance education and resources, ensuring better support for those affected by pediatric feeding disorders around the world....
2024-11-1333 min
Swallow the GapGetting More From Your Swallow Evaluation With Knowledge of Cranial NervesIn this episode, we explore how a solid understanding of cranial nerves can make dysphagia evaluations more precise and guide treatment. By knowing which nerves impact each part of the swallow and how to interpret the oral mechanical exam, clinicians can tailor treatments to lead to better patient outcomes.Guest: Kendrea L. Garand, PhD, CScD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CBIS, CCREThis episode is graciously sponsored by Bracco Diagnostics, maker of VARIBAR® (barium sulfate) - Check them out at VaribarMBS.comCranial Nerve Diagram for Swallowing: https://www.instagram.com/p/C0vHczIxtk_/?i...
2024-10-3042 min
Swallow the GapFunctional SwallowingIn this episode, we turn the tables as guest host Jeanette Benigas, PhD, interviews Tim on the concept of "functional" swallowing. They explore what truly defines functional swallowing by delving into its core impact on nutrition, hydration, quality of life, and pulmonary health. Together, they reframe our understanding of swallowing function, challenging traditional views and grounding the discussion in clinical outcomes that matter most.Check out Tim's MBSS/VFSS, which is discussed in this episode! https://youtu.be/hVH6G1Wh9ZkGuest Host: Jeanette Benigas, PhD, SLP
2024-10-2341 minSwallow the GapAnnouncement - Giveaway For Thursday's Webinar and a New Podcast Episode Next WeekAs some of you may have noticed, Swallow the Gap has been on a short, three-week break due to some big deadlines and our recent FEES course in Salt Lake City. But don’t worry—we’ll be back on track and a brand-new episode is dropping next Wednesday! To make it up to you, we’re doing something special. We’re giving away six tickets to this Thursday’s webinar: Evidence-Based Videofluoroscopy: Moving Beyond Fear-Based Decision Making with Dr. James Coyle and Jo Puntil, offered for 0.2 ASHA CEUs: www.swallowthegap.com/fear-to-evidenceYou can enter via any...
2024-10-1601 min
Swallow the GapExploring sEMG in Dysphagia RehabilitationJoin Tim and Dr. Gabriela "Gabi" Constantinescu as they explore the use of surface electromyography (sEMG) in swallowing rehabilitation. Gabi, with her background as a clinician and PhD in Rehabilitation Medicine, shares insights on how sEMG biofeedback can enhance patient engagement and outcomes in dysphagia therapy. Whether you're familiar with this technology or new to it, this episode offers a clear and practical overview of how sEMG works, its benefits, and its potential for clinical practice.Support the showGap Education:https://swallowthegap.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/swallowpatho
2024-09-2533 min
Swallow the GapParadigm Shifts in Neurogenic Dysphagia: Innovating Treatment with PhysiciansWe’re thrilled to have a neurology physician out of Düsseldorf, Germany join us to explore neurogenic dysphagia and the role of interdisciplinary treatments in its management. Dr. Bendix Labeit will introduce central compensatory mechanisms, brain stimulation, pharmacological therapies, and more, offering insights to shift the way SLPs approach dysphagia care.Episode Sponsor: Phagenesis -Non-surgical, neurostimulation therapyto restore swallowing control https://www.phagenesis.com/Hard to Swallow - A Catalyst for Change in Dysphagia Management conference, featuring our guest: https://peaks.rm.edu/course/hard-to-swallow-dysphagia-management-conference-2024/Bio: Bendix Labeit is a neu...
2024-09-1733 min
Swallow the GapMetrics that Matter: The Critical Role of RMST in Dysphagia ManagementHow can Inspiratory Muscle Strength Training (IMST) be integrated into your patient care? In this episode, we explore respiratory muscle strength training (RMST), with a specific focus on IMST—one of the less familiar tools for speech-language pathologists. Tune in as we discuss the science and real-world applications of RMST, with expert insights from Dr. Alex Brandimore. Whether you’re new to RMST or looking to deepen your knowledge, this episode offers valuable insights for advancing dysphagia care.Episode Sponsor: Aspire Respiratory Products - Visit https://emst150.com for access to free educational resources (found on the heal...
2024-09-1635 min
Swallow the GapICU Discussion Panel - Continuing Conversation from 'Dysphagia in Patients with Pulmonary Compromise (ICU & Beyond)This episode continues the discussion from the April 20th, 2024 webinar "Dysphagia in Patients with Pulmonary Compromise: ICU and Beyond." It is a special release that falls between Season 1 and Season 2, covering topics related to dysphagia practice in patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). It is also relevant to long-term acute care units (LTAC) and other settings.This episode expresses opinions of the guests and hosts. It should not be taken to represent our employers or as health or legal advice.Guests:Martin Brodsky, PhD, ScM, CCC-SLP, ASHA FellowJo Puntil...
2024-06-251h 02
Swallow the GapSeason Finale: Moving Beyond Our ReflectionIn a startling sample of patients, 67% of those with a modified diet and 61% of those with feeding tubes who were then assessed with FEES did not appear to even have dysphagia (Bice et al., 2024)! Soon to be Dr. Matthew Ward (🤞April 18th) and Tim discuss jarring data from Matt’s recent publication Dysphagia and Diets in Skilled Nursing Facilities When Patient's Health Status Changes: The Role of Imaging. Moving beyond the angst of the metaphorical mirror of dysphagia management, we highlight the transformative potential that is possible through reflection and a growth-mindset.
2024-04-161h 01
Swallow the GapBreath of Fresh Air: Uncovering the Impact of Oral Hygiene on Hospital-Acquired PneumoniaHow can you prevent ~40 pneumonia cases and save $1.5 million in 1 year? Listen to find out! Join us today with three doctorate-level healthcare providers and an advanced practice nurse as we unravel startling data on the effect of oral hygiene on hospital-acquired pneumonia. Our expert guests will dive into how something as simple as improved oral hygiene can not only enhance patient outcomes (by ~37%!!) but also potentially save healthcare facilities millions of dollars. This episode contains actionable insights and practical information aimed at advancing oral hygiene practices in healthcare institutions. Prepare to be surprised by the powerful effect...
2024-04-0952 min
Swallow the GapBeyond the Bedside: Humanizing Healthcare in the ICUThis episode is a must-listen for those who dream big about inspiring positive change and for clinicians who may need a boost in their motivation. Sam Walker, an SLP and business owner, shares transformative lessons from her mother's 72-day hospitalization battling sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and the rigors of invasive airway support. With her unique blend of personal experience and professional acumen, Sam elevates a perspective on patient care and education that intertwines our individuality, professionalism, and shared humanity. This episode also features Jo Puntil, an esteemed ASHA Fellow and ICU trailblazer with over 35 years of acute...
2024-03-2657 min
Swallow the GapDysphagia in Patients With DementiaIn this episode, we discuss diagnosing and managing dysphagia in patients with dementia. Dr. Jeannette Benigas and Rinki Varindani Desai integrate various sources with their own professional experience to help better equip SLPs to partner with our patients.Episode Resources:Free webinar of NFOSD: https://swallowingdisorderfoundation.com/webinar-recording-dysphagia-dementia/NFOSD blog post for caregivers: https://swallowingdisorderfoundation.com/caregivers-guide-dysphagia-dementia/ECAThttps://www.healthpropress.com/product/environment-communication-assessment-toolkit-ecat-for-dementia-care-with-metersMedbridge Link for the following courses: https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/benigascode to save: BENIGASBiographyDr. Jeanette E...
2024-03-1956 min
Swallow the GapPracticing Research and Researching Practice: Interpreting Clinical Trials and Building the Foundations for Future ResearchCorinne Jones, Ph.D., CCC-SLP delves into how SLPs can analyze and interpret clinical trials to facilitate translation of the science to our clinical practice. There is an emphasis on how clinicians form the foundations of research and how to build synergy with researchers.BioDr. Corinne Jones is an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, focusing on Neurology and Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences (SLHS). She completed her undergraduate studies in Linguistics with a minor in SLHS at Boston University, followed by a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at the...
2024-03-121h 05
Swallow the GapChanging Tides in the World of SLPFrom publication pushback to trailblazing in the continuing education world, Dr. Ianessa Humbert and Rinki Varindani Desai discuss challenges - and payoffs - of infusing new ideas into the field of speech-language pathology. Biographies:Dr. Humbert, PhD is an accomplished scientist, professor, and highly sought-after speaker with expertise and swallowing and swallowing disorders. Dr. Humbert is a world renowned 'Swallowologist,' the CEO and Co-founder of STEP - The Swallowing Training and Education Portal, and the CEO and founder of Swallowing Wellness.Rinki Varindani Desai is a medical speech-language pathologist and board-certified s...
2024-03-051h 05
Swallow the GapRisk!In perhaps the most laid back and chaotic episode ever, George and Tim discuss factors that influence clinical decision making. This episode discusses foundations to allow medical SLPs to be more empirical and evidence-based our decision making. The discussion exalts the idea of harnessing our ability to think overcome flaws in clinical reasoning and to critically to facilitate more ideal outcomes in patient care.BioGeorge Barnes MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S is a board-certified specialist in swallowing and swallowing disorders who has developed expertise in dysphagia management, focusing on diagnostics and clinical decision-making in the medically...
2024-02-2749 min
Swallow the GapLanding in the Same Location With Vastly Different Roles: Experiences of a Medical SLP Student, a Clinic Director, and an Associate ProfessorIn this episode we integrate the experiences of three unique individuals who all landed in the same program, but with vastly different roles: a student, director of clinical education, and an associate professor. Themes include– but aren’t limited to - transitioning from student to clinician, self-assessment, fostering synergy via dialogue & debate, guidance for grads & mentors, and sharing mistakes. This episode is a must-listen for students, mentors, recent graduates, and all who are interested in collaboration and professional development.Due to microphone placement, setting, room acoustics, and other factors, the audio quality in this episode is somewhat diff...
2024-02-2051 min
Swallow the GapBeyond Fear to Find Your Bliss: Growing Yourself and Transforming SLP EducationDr. Julie Barkmeier-Kraemer discusses the transformative impact of learning from failure, managing self-expectations, and imposter syndrome. She draws from her experience as a clinician, instructor, researcher, administrator, and more to provide insights into developing oneself and revolutionizing education for speech-language pathologists. With brief tangents about cranial nerves and clinical swallow evaluations, the conversation navigates topics such as critical thinking, the strengths of case-based learning, and viewing clinical supervision as a partnership.Julie Barkmeier-Kraemer, PhD, CCC-SLP, ASHA Honors Dr. Julie Barkmeier-Kraemer is a tenured professor in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Di...
2024-02-1358 min
Swallow the GapBeing an SLP in the Real World... Where's the Disconnect?This episode is essential for anyone struggling with conflicting expectations from their education, patients, administration, and personal goals. Our guest, Ed Bice, delves into how we can reconcile differences when we are faced with competing ideas. We explore strategies for navigating challenging situations and enhancing communication skills. Additionally, the episode focuses on the importance of leveraging the knowledge of those you are negotiating with, especially when advocating for more reasonable productivity standards and the adoption of new diagnostic and treatment equipment. Guest bio:Ed Bice is currently working as a Clinical Consultant for IOPI Medical. H...
2024-02-0656 min
Swallow the GapBeyond Aspiration - Why Should We Care, and What Else Matters?On today's episode, we scratch the surface on variables beyond aspiration that impact dysphagia-related pneumonia in our patients. Our guest, Dr. John R. Ashford, Ph.D., brings a wealth of knowledge from his experience in clinical practice, academia, and research. Furthermore, we discuss lab values, education, life-long learning, and how SLPs can become more medically-focused in their patient care. Join us as Dr. Ashford provides valuable insights to help bridge the gap between research and practical clinical application. “What I know doesn’t belong to me; what people know really doesn’t belong to them; we’re nothing bu...
2024-01-3049 min
Swallow the GapHealthcare Disparities in Dysphagia: Parallels Between Our Bodies and SocietyRaele Donetha Robison, PhD, CCC-SLP of University of Wisconsin-Madison offers her perspectives on healthcare inequities faced by individuals with dysphagia. With her rich understanding of complexities in patient care - such as the concepts of functional reserves and homeostasis - she provides enlightening comparisons between the challenges encountered in healthcare on both individual and societal scales.Bio:Dr. Robison is a Speech-Language Pathologist and current postdoctoral fellow at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison) in Dr. Nicole Rogus-Pulia’s Swallowing and Salivary Bioscience Laboratory. Dr. Robison is currently supported by a NIH sp...
2024-01-2344 min
Swallow the GapGaps: Where Are They... Really? Progression in Perspective and the Importance of Nuance.Dr. Vose touches on the importance of nuance while reflecting on her 2018 paper, "A Survey of Clinician Decision Making When Identifying Swallowing Impairments and Determining Treatment," and why understanding the methodology in research is a key element of evidence based practice. This episode also discusses translating science outside of speech-language pathology into our practice, the need for more treatment research, and our motivation to keep growing as a profession. "By acknowledging the gap, it promotes promise for the future." - Alicia K. Vose, PhD, CCC-SLP https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7242916/...
2024-01-161h 12
Swallow the GapWave the Diet Waiver, "Goodbye!"Dr. Jeanette Benigas shares her insight into ethical dysphagia intervention that exemplifies patient-centered care. What do you do when a patient is not agreeable to your recommendations?How do we be sure to not undermine patient autonomy when a patient wants something that we may not consider to be "safe"?Bio:Jeanette E. Benigas, PhDDr. Jeanette E. Benigas owns Safe Swallowing Diagnostics, a mobile FEES company serving Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. Her extensive clinical experience has included work with adults in the acute care, inpatient rehabilitation...
2024-01-0954 min
Swallow the GapDysphagia Through Head and Neck Cancer: Personality and PerseveranceDr. Carly Barbon from M.D. Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX) and Faith Hoelzel-Lemke from Huntsman Cancer Center (Salt Lake City, UT) provide a glimpse into specialized dysphagia care for patients with - and survivors of - cancers of the head and neck (HNC). Join us in this jovial dialogue and learn makes care for this population so memorable!Go Pack... Go?!Bios:Carly E. A. Barbon, PhDDr. Carly Barbon is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Head and Neck Surgery at The University of Texas MD Anderson...
2024-01-0958 min
Swallow the GapNavigating ICU Care: Dispelling Myths, Being Authentic, and Cultivating Professional GrowthGuests: Dr. Martin Brodsky, & Jo Puntil Join us in a conversation exploring what it means to be your authentic self while providing patient-centered care in a high-stakes medical setting. BiosMartin Brodsky, PhD, ScM, CCC-SLP, ASHA FellowDr. Martin Brodsky is the Section Head for Speech-Language Pathology in the Head and Neck Institute at Cleveland Clinic and Adjunct Associate Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Johns Hopkins University. His publications largely focus on swallowing and swallowing disorders and laryngeal injury after endotracheal intubation. He is...
2024-01-0259 min