Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part Two

Taking Control of Your Career: The Power of Travel Therapy with Kristie Yakovich

In episode 138, Michelle sits down with AMN Healthcare recruiter Kristie Yakovich to explore the highly desired and empowering world of travel therapy. Kristie shares her 15 years of insight into the differences between school-based and medical settings, the step-by-step process of securing your ideal contract, and the incredible support systems AMN provides.  The conversation covers how to handle contracts that are not a perfect fit, the requirements for transitioning into teletherapy, and the beautiful friendships that blossom on the road. You will discover how open communication with a trusted recruiter gives you greater control of your professional journey, helping you build a life and career you truly love. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Taking Control of Your Career 02:43 – Meet Kristie: Over 15 Years of Healthcare Recruiting 04:10 – Medical vs. School-Based Settings: Finding Your Fit 06:06 – The Process of Getting Started in Travel Therapy 08:45 – Navigating Challenges and Changing Contracts 12:52 – Transitioning to Teletherapy and Required Experience 15:36 – Building a Strong Recruiter-Clinician Relationship 21:14 – Success Stories: Love, Friendship, and Travel 25:13 – Advice for Maximizing Your Career Potential Join us on May 1st at 1 p.m. EST for a LIVE YouTube event [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1p_bZfNjUU] celebrating all SLPs—with special guests, great conversations, and $500 worth of giveaways to share.    Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure/] Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/allied/about-us/meet-our-recruiters/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]! Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].  Share the opportunity and refer a friend today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]!    Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/amnpassport/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]today!    Website [Learn more about our show: https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure//?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Youtube.com] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnallied/] YouTube [ https://www.youtube.com/slpfulldisclosure/] Apple Podcasts [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosureapple] Spotify [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosurespotify] Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On-the-Job Training: Articulation Therapy Insights with Michelle Gage

In episode 137, Michelle explores the realities of articulation therapy, and the practical skills speech-language pathologists learn on the job. While graduate school provides a strong foundation in anatomy, speech sound norms, and analytical skills, many therapists find themselves figuring out the exact techniques to correct specific sounds through trial and error. Michelle shares her experiences bridging this gap, offering encouragement and practical advice for both new and seasoned professionals. The conversation covers the challenges of group therapy, coaching parents with accessible language, and the realities of speech sound development charts. You will also discover strategies for scaffolding sounds, the importance of accurate initial diagnoses, and how telehealth and visual aids can enhance therapy outcomes. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to On-the-Job Training for Articulation 01:17 – The Gap Between Graduate School and Real-World Therapy 03:00 – Keeping Drills Engaging and Adjusting Mid-Session 04:14 – Coaching Parents and Writing Attainable Goals 06:29 – Managing Group Therapy and Differing Needs 08:04 – Navigating Speech Sound Development Norms 09:31 – Scaffolding Sounds From Isolation to Conversation 12:08 – The Importance of Accurate Initial Diagnoses 14:36 – Breaking Habitual Motor Patterns in Short Sessions 17:06 – Multi-Sensory Input and Telehealth Success 19:58 – Advice for New Speech-Language Pathologists Join us on May 1st at 1 p.m. EST for a LIVE YouTube event [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1p_bZfNjUU] celebrating all SLPs—with special guests, great conversations, and $500 worth of giveaways to share.    Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure/] Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/allied/about-us/meet-our-recruiters/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]! Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].  Share the opportunity and refer a friend today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]!    Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/amnpassport/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]today!    Website [Learn more about our show: https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure//?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Youtube.com] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnallied/] YouTube [ https://www.youtube.com/slpfulldisclosure/] Apple Podcasts [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosureapple] Spotify [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosurespotify] Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Understanding Childhood Apraxia of Speech with Laura Baskall-Smith

In episode 136, Michelle welcomes back Laura Smith, a speech-language pathologist who specializes in childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). Also known as the "SLP Mommy of Apraxia," Laura brings both clinical expertise and personal experience as a mother of a child with CAS. She breaks down exactly what apraxia is—a disconnect between the brain's planning and the mouth's movement—and why the diagnosis can often feel overwhelming for families. The conversation explores how to differentiate apraxia from other speech sound disorders using dynamic motor speech exams. Laura debunks common myths, such as the idea that a child cannot be diagnosed before age three, and shares critical red flags to look for during a parent intake case history. Listeners will also learn about evidence-based treatment strategies like DTTC, the importance of the principles of motor learning, and why ongoing continuing education is vital for speech-language pathologists. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Childhood Apraxia of Speech 00:28 – Welcoming Guest Laura Smith (SLP Mommy of Apraxia) 01:58 – Defining Apraxia: The Disconnect Between Brain and Mouth 03:18 – Why an Apraxia Diagnosis Can Be Scary for Parents 05:08 – Distinguishing Apraxia from Other Speech Sound Disorders 08:26 – The "ASHA 3" Core Characteristics of CAS 11:58 – Debunking the Age of Diagnosis Myth 15:10 – Key Red Flags to Look for in Early Case Histories 17:32 – Hidden Challenges of Apraxia in Daily Life 20:00 – Effective Therapy Techniques and DTTC Training 22:02 – Recommended Frequency for Apraxia Therapy 23:18 – Advice for Graduate Students and SLPs 26:02 – Conclusion and Upcoming Episode Plans   Resources Mentioned:Instagram:  Instagram: SLPMommyofAprazia [https://www.instagram.com/slpmommyofapraxia/] TikTok:  @slpmommyofapraxia [https://www.tiktok.com/@slpmommyofapraxia ]  Book: Overcoming Apraxia by Laura Smith on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Overcoming-Apraxia-Laura-Baskall-Smith/dp/057857537X] Free DTTC Training (Edythe Strand) [https://childapraxiatreatment.org/continuing-education/workshops/] Apraxia Kids Website: https://www.apraxia-kids.org/ [https://www.apraxia-kids.org/] (Features Edwin Maas's gentle introduction to motor learning) Therapy Materials: Bjorem Speech Sound Cues: https://www.bjoremspeech.com/ [https://www.bjoremspeech.com/] Join us on May 1st at 1 p.m. EST for a LIVE YouTube event [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1p_bZfNjUU] celebrating all SLPs—with special guests, great conversations, and $500 worth of giveaways to share.    Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure/] Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/allied/about-us/meet-our-recruiters/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]! Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].  Share the opportunity and refer a friend today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]!    Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/amnpassport/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]today!    Website [Learn more about our show: https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure//?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Youtube.com] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnallied/] YouTube [ https://www.youtube.com/slpfulldisclosure/] Apple Podcasts [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosureapple] Spotify [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosurespotify] Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Breaking Down Communication Barriers with Ner Chat

In episode 135, Michelle welcomes Dylan Makani, co-founder and CEO of Ner Chat, to discuss how his company is revolutionizing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Inspired by a close friend who used an AAC device but struggled to stay in touch remotely, Dylan set out to bridge the gap in digital communication. He created tools that allow AAC users to connect seamlessly through mainstream messaging, moving beyond the limits of face-to-face interactions. Dylan shares the journey of developing Leaf, an iOS keyboard that integrates AAC symbols directly into everyday apps like text messaging and email. The conversation also dives into Glint, a groundbreaking platform designed for speech-language pathologists and educators.  Glint allows professionals to create highly customized, interactive visual supports in seconds, complete with Google Image integration, voice output, and simple sharing via QR codes. By streamlining the creation of visual materials, Ner Chat is saving SLPs countless hours and empowering complex learners across all environments. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Ner Chat and Guest Dylan Makani 02:24 – The Inspiring Story Behind Ner Chat 05:10 – Introducing Leaf: AAC in Everyday Messaging 08:22 – The Difference Between Ner Chat, Leaf, and Glint 09:03 – How Glint Simplifies Visual Support Creation 11:24 – Seamless Google Image Integration in Glint 13:08 – Sharing and Customizing Visual Boards with Audio 16:29 – Partnering with AMN Healthcare and Elevate 18:23 – Real-Life Success Stories with Glint 23:37 – Dylan's Message to Families and Professionals: You Are Not Alone 25:33 – Upcoming Demos and Conclusion About the Guest: Dylan Makani is the Co-Founder of Ner Chat, the company behind Glint, an AI-powered platform transforming how educators and therapists create visual supports. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with dual majors in Neuroscience and Medicine, Health & Society, and is currently an M1 at The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences.Dylan’s background spans neuroscience research, private equity, and healthcare investing, combined with personal experience in autism and assistive technology through his work with Best Buddies. His mission is to make communication supports faster, easier, and universally accessible for educators, families, and the students who rely on them. Follow Ner Chat: NerChat.com [http://www.nerchat.com] Instagram/Ner.Chat [https://www.instagram.com/ner.chat/] TikTok/Ner_Chat [https://www.tiktok.com/@ner_chat] YouTube/Ner_Chat [https://www.youtube.com/@Ner_chat] Join us on May 1st at 1 p.m. EST for a LIVE YouTube event [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1p_bZfNjUU] celebrating all SLPs—with special guests, great conversations, and $500 worth of giveaways to share.    Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure/] Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/allied/about-us/meet-our-recruiters/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]! Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].  Share the opportunity and refer a friend today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]!    Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/amnpassport/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]today!    Website [Learn more about our show: https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure//?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Youtube.com] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnallied/] YouTube [ https://www.youtube.com/slpfulldisclosure/] Apple Podcasts [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosureapple] Spotify [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosurespotify] Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part Two

In the second part of this series, Michelle continues the discussion on the foundational skills toddlers need before they begin to talk. This episode builds on the previous one by exploring how play, imitation, and environment shape a child's path to verbal communication. Michelle offers practical strategies for parents and SLPs to encourage these skills, emphasizing that language development is a step-by-step process. Michelle explains the importance of functional toy play, motor imitation, and following simple directions. She provides actionable tips, such as limiting toys to reduce overwhelm and using the "Tell, Show, Help" method. The discussion also covers how to foster vocalizations, use gestures, and set up the environment to create communication opportunities—turning everyday moments into powerful language-learning experiences. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Part Two: Skills Before Words 01:40 – How Children Learn Through Functional Play 03:59 – Building Receptive Language Before Expressive Language 06:07 – Motor Imitation and Its Role in Language 08:15 – Following Simple Directions with "Tell, Show, Help" 10:26 – Encouraging Vocalizations and Imitating Sounds 14:21 – The Emergence of Gestures Before Words 16:10 – Creating a Communication-Rich Environment 20:24 – The Power of Extended Wait Time Join us on May 1st at 1 p.m. EST for a LIVE YouTube event [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1p_bZfNjUU] celebrating all SLPs—with special guests, great conversations, and $500 worth of giveaways to share.    Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure/] Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/allied/about-us/meet-our-recruiters/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]! Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/about/employee-assistance-program/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].  Share the opportunity and refer a friend today [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/refer-a-friend/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]!    Episode Sponsor: We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com].   Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App [https://www.amnhealthcare.com/amnpassport/?utm_source=Spotify&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Spotify.com]today!    Website [Learn more about our show: https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure//?utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=SLP_Podcast_2025&LO=Youtube.com] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/amnallied/] YouTube [ https://www.youtube.com/slpfulldisclosure/] Apple Podcasts [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosureapple] Spotify [http://bit.ly/slpfulldisclosurespotify] Powered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.