SLP Full Disclosure

In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, Michelle interviews Josh Eliand and Chirag Kulkarni, the co-founders of Sira, an AI-powered platform built to help speech-language pathologists (SLPs) streamline documentation and enhance patient care. Josh and Chirag share their unique backgrounds and personal motivations behind creating Sira, while shedding light on the real pain points faced by SLPs in clinical practice. They discuss the pros and cons of utilizing AI in healthcare, the critical importance of HIPAA compliance, and the challenges and limitations of this technology. The episode also outlines the development of the Sira platform, its features, and the user experience. Finally, they explore the potential for AI to extend its impact beyond speech therapy, offering advice and insights for SLPs considering AI-driven solutions. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to AI in Speech Therapy 01:58 - Founders' Backgrounds and Personal Connections 07:03 - Identifying Pain Points in Speech Therapy 11:00 - Building the AI Platform: Initial Steps 14:03 - Pros and Cons of AI in Healthcare 17:57 - Challenges and Limitations of AI Technology 22:01 - HIPAA Compliance in AI Solutions 26:06 - Overview of the Sira Platform 29:51 - Getting Started with Sira and User Experience 34:05 - Expanding Use Cases Beyond Speech Therapy 37:57 - Final Thoughts and Advice for SLPs About Chirag and Josh: Chirag is a co-founder of Syra, an innovative AI platform focused on automating manual tasks within healthcare settings.  Leveraging his experience from McKinsey & Company as well as a number of high-growth health-tech startups, Chirag specializes in applying artificial intelligence to streamline healthcare operations and improve patient care.  He is passionate about harnessing AI and technology to address real-world challenges in healthcare, particularly in areas such as speech therapy and clinical workflows. Josh is the co-founder of Syra, an AI-driven automation platform designed for non-technical users. With a background in strategy and operations across private sector industries (Bain & Company) and NGOs (nonprofit Run Your City), Josh is passionate about leveraging technology to simplify complex workflows and relieve administrative burdens. Get Syra [www.trysyra.com! ] today!  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

In this heartfelt episode, Michelle dives into the inspiring journey behind her decision to become a speech-language pathologist. Guided by her Christian faith and a deep desire to serve others, she shares touching personal stories that reveal the joy of transforming lives through communication. From building lasting connections with families to witnessing the power of human connection in therapy, Michelle explains how her career didn’t just happen—it chose her. This episode is a celebration of purpose, faith, and the incredible fulfillment that comes from helping others thrive. Chapters * 00:00 Discovering My Why as a Speech-Language Pathologist * 06:40 The Power of Serving Others * 12:54 Building Lasting Connections with Families * 18:38 The Joy of Human Connection in Therapy 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

Join Michelle as she chats with her daughter Mia, a middle school math teacher, about how math and language connect. They explore how strong vocabulary supports math learning, the shift from numerical to language-based problem-solving, and the challenges faced by students with language delays or IEPs. The episode highlights the value of collaboration between speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and math teachers, tips for supporting English learners, and the power of visual strategies to make math more accessible. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Math and Language 03:09 The Role of Vocabulary in Math Education 06:04 Transitioning from Numbers to Language in Math 09:01 Understanding Math Standards and Language Challenges 11:52 The Impact of Language on Math Learning 15:07 Supporting Students with IEPs in Math 17:54 Inclusion of English Learners in Math Education 21:14 Collaboration Between SLPs and Math Teachers 24:04 Advice for SLPs Working with Math Students 26:58 Visual Learning Strategies in Math 27:57 Conclusion and Future Discussions About Mia  Mia graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education, specializing in secondary mathematics. During her time at Ole Miss, she was actively involved in organizations like Kappa Delta Alpha Mu, Teachers of Tomorrow, the National Education Association, the Mississippi Association of Education, and the National Honor Society for Leadership and Success. She also served as an Education Ambassador and co-presented at the Mississippi Council for Teachers of Mathematics Conference. Currently, Mia is an 8th-grade math teacher at Oxford Middle School, where she serves as the PLC Leader for the math department, mentors a first-year teacher, and acts as a Clinical Instructor for a senior teaching fellow from the University of Mississippi. Recognized for her excellence, she was named Oxford Middle School Employee of the Year for 2023-2024 and received the Elevating Excellence Pin in August 2024. Beyond the classroom, Mia is the assistant coach for the middle school cheerleading team and sponsor of the OMS Diamond Dolls for the baseball team. She enjoys traveling, listening to true crime podcasts, and spending time with family and friends. 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

Join  Michelle in this engaging episode of SLP Full Disclosure as she welcomes the Michelle Garcia Winner, a renowned speech language pathologist and the creator of the Social Thinking methodology. Together, they take a deep dive into the vital role of social competencies in effective communication and explore how Social Thinking goes beyond traditional social skills training to address emotional awareness and social observation. Michelle Garcia Winner shares the story behind developing this groundbreaking approach and explains how it helps individuals, especially those on the autism spectrum, build meaningful social behaviors and emotional connections. The episode also examines the impact of social anxiety, the challenges introduced by COVID-19, and how speech language pathologists can apply Social Thinking strategies in practical, everyday scenarios. With warmth and expertise, this conversation offers valuable insights and actionable advice for SLPs, educators, and anyone passionate about fostering connection through communication. Chapters: * 00:00 Introduction to Social Thinking and its significance * 03:11 Michelle Garcia-Winner’s inspiring professional journey * 06:07 Exploring the connection between social observation and anxiety * 09:00 Unpacking the role of Social Thinking in communication * 11:50 Understanding social anxiety and how it affects communication * 15:11 The distinction between Social Thinking and social skills training * 18:03 How emotions influence social communication * 20:48 Building social competencies through the Social Thinking approach * 24:04 COVID-19's effects on social skill development * 26:57 Practical applications for SLPs working with diverse populations * 30:11 Advice for professionals and next steps in Social Thinking * 33:06 Closing thoughts and resources for further exploration Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion packed with insights, advice, and inspiration to enhance how we approach communication. Whether you're a speech language pathologist, an educator, or a parent, this episode will equip you with tools and knowledge to better understand and support social-emotional learning.   Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Explore more about Michelle Garcia Winner’s Social Thinking methodology and access helpful resources at SocialThinking.com [https://www.socialthinking.com/] and connect on social: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/socialthinking]  Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/socialthinking/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/socialthinking/] X [https://x.com/socialthinking] Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/2socialthinking/] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@SocialThinkingVideos] About Michelle Garcia Winner Michelle Garcia Winner, MA, CCC-SLP, is the founder and CEO of Think Social Publishing, Inc, (a.k.a. Social Thinking).  She is a globally recognized thought leader, author, speaker, and social-cognitive therapist who is dedicated to fostering awareness and development of our social-emotional and organizational selves, whether neurodivergent and neurotypical. Across her 30+ year career she has created numerous evidence-based strategies, treatment frameworks, and curricula to help family members as well as teachers, counselors, therapists and other types of interventionists, foster the development of social and organizational competencies and problem solving in those they support. Her methodology is most effective with children and adults who have a solid command of expressive and receptive language. Michelle and her team continually update the Social Thinking® Methodology based on the latest research and clinical insights.   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

Michelle sits down with Mary White, an advocate for individuals with disabilities, to share her inspiring story. Diagnosed with hydrocephalus as a child, Mary reflects on how speech therapy shaped her voice and confidence. She discusses her educational path through the Access Program at Mississippi State University, which provided her with opportunities to grow academically and socially. Mary highlights the importance of support systems, her impactful work at the Children's Hospital of Alabama, and her dedication to creating more inclusive spaces through public speaking and advocacy initiatives. Chapters: * 00:00 Meet Mary * 04:00 Overcoming Early Challenges * 10:30 Access Program Journey * 16:40 Career and Advocacy * 24:00 Encouragement and Resources About Mary: Mary White is an advocate for people with disabilities and enjoys sharing her story. She has a series of YouTube videos called, “The Awesome Mary Show” that focus on living with a disability. Her videos are informative, inspirational and humorous. She graduated from Mississippi State University’s ACCESS Program in 2023. Mary has been recognized as a leader in advocacy including; the Self-Advocate of Distinction Award in 2024 from ARC of Alabama, the Jeff Ridgeway Advocacy Award, the Vulcan Community Award and was named one of Alabama Public Television's Young Heroes. Mary lives in Birmingham and works at Children’s of Alabama.  Check out The Awesome Mary Show [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?app=desktop&list=PLwMObYmlSHaOybGZvsbGVWrgqCr4K2Tic] 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