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
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 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