SLP Full Disclosure

Jaksot

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  From New Grad to 11 Contracts In—Claudia Jones on Building a Life Through Travel Therapy 15.09.2026 35min

  What if the career path you were told to avoid turned out to be the best decision you ever made? In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, host Michelle sits down with Claudia Jones, a travel occupational therapist with AMN Healthcare and 11 contracts under her belt. Claudia shares how she went from a new grad who was warned away from travel therapy to a passionate advocate helping the next generation of clinicians take that first leap. From building unexpected friendships to growing as a clinician in a small Oregon hospital—the only OT on staff across three settings—her story is equal parts inspiring and practical.
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  Erin Weiner on Autizan: How AI Extends Speech Therapy 01.09.2026 25min

  Welcome to another episode of SLP Full Disclosure. In this episode, host Michelle Gage sits down with Erin Weiner, M.S., CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist, innovator, and founder of Autizan—a scalable AI platform designed to support social communication for neurodivergent individuals across school, home, and clinical settings. Erin shares the clinical frustrations that sparked her vision, walks us through how Autizan works in real therapy and home environments, and makes a compelling case for why SLPs who embrace AI thoughtfully will be better equipped to serve their clients.
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  How AI Is Eliminating Paperwork Burnout for SLPs with Izzy Montano 18.08.2026 42min

  Welcome to another episode of SLP Full Disclosure with your host, Michelle. In Episode 145, Michelle sits down with Izzy Montano—Navy veteran, school-based SLP, and founder of SLP AI Tools—to talk about one of the most pressing conversations in speech-language pathology right now: how artificial intelligence can give clinicians their time back. Izzy walks us through the platform he built from the ground up, the philosophy behind using AI responsibly, and the practical tools that are already transforming how SLPs handle documentation, evaluations, language samples, scheduling, and Praxis prep.
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  Voice Therapy with Maurice Goodwin 04.08.2026 30min

  Welcome back to another episode of the SLP Full Disclosure podcast. In Episode 144, host Michelle sits down with Maurice Goodwin, a licensed speech-language pathologist and voice teacher based in Houston, Texas. Maurice is the founder of Goodwin Voice and Speech, adjunct faculty at Lamar University and Marymount University, and a specialist in voice and upper airway disorders. Together, they pull back the curtain on a subspecialty that many SLPs rarely encounter—and explain why that needs to change. Maurice shares his unique path into speech pathology—from vocal performance and music in undergrad to becoming a voice specialist who works with professional singers, performers, and medical patients alike. The conversation covers the full spectrum of voice disorders, diagnostic tools (many of them free), therapy approaches for pediatric and adult clients, and the critical importance of medical collaboration. Michelle also opens up about her own post-surgical voice experience, making for a candid and relatable discussion. Whether you're a new grad, a school-based SLP who has never seen a voice referral, or a seasoned clinician curious about expanding your scope, this episode delivers practical insight and genuine encouragement.
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  What Really Happens Behind the Scenes at AMN Schools with Patrick O'Connor 21.07.2026 32min

  Ever wonder how your dream school assignment actually comes together? What does it take for a staffing agency to land a contract with a school district, and what does that mean for your career? In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, host Michelle sits down with Patrick O'Connor, President of AMN's Schools Division, for an inside look at the school staffing world. With more than 15 years of experience at AMN, Pat pulls back the curtain on the RFP process, the technology transforming teletherapy, and why choosing the right agency makes all the difference for your career.
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  Feeding Therapy and Life in the NICU with Kailey Harmon 23.06.2026 31min

  In this episode of the SLP Full Disclosure podcast, host Michelle sits down with Kailey Harmon, a fellow speech-language pathologist specializing in NICU feeding therapy. Kailey shares her journey into one of the most specialized and high-stakes areas of speech pathology, offering an honest look at what it takes to work with premature and medically complex infants and the families who love them.
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  Experience as a Travel SLP and Clinical Fellow with Claudia Berger 09.06.2026 21min

  Claudia and Michelle first connected at ASHA in Washington, D.C., where Claudia, a Travel SLP[KC1][SA2], fielded a steady stream of questions from curious graduate students. This episode captures all of that and more. Claudia walks listeners through how she discovered AMN Healthcare, what her first recruiter call felt like, her clinical fellowship year, how she chose Vermont as her first destination, and how AMN's support system helped her thrive during her clinical fellowship year (CFY). She also gets candid about the logistics of travel life: housing, storage, road trips across the country, and what to do with your summers between contracts.
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  Take Charge of Your Career With the AMN University Program with Jill Pantle 26.05.2026 21min

  Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the job market right out of graduate school? Do you desire greater control of your clinical career trajectory from day one? In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, host Michelle welcomes back Jill Pantle, the Director of University Programs at AMN Healthcare, to discuss an incredible new initiative. They explore how the University Program connects educational institutions with open opportunities to graduates ready for their first role. You will discover how experienced clinicians can guide the next generation, how virtual mentorship is expanding, and how to take charge of your own professional journey.
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  Celebrating SLP Month, Career Growth, and New Opportunities in Speech Pathology LIVE 12.05.2026 59min

  In episode 139, Michelle Gage and Breana Donnelly celebrate Speech and Hearing Month with a special live episode focused on the impact of speech-language pathologists, the many paths within the profession, and the exciting opportunities available to both experienced clinicians and new grads. Michelle shares her personal career journey through public schools, early intervention, travel therapy, and teletherapy, while answering common questions about clinical fellowships, mentorship, summer work, and finding the right fit. Later in the episode, Jill Pantle joins the conversation to introduce AMN Healthcare’s Alumni Ambassador program, which connects experienced clinicians with students and upcoming graduates. This episode is a helpful listen for SLPs who want career encouragement, practical advice, and a clearer view of what is possible in the field.
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  Taking Control of Your Career: The Power of Travel Therapy with Kristie Yakovich 28.04.2026 27min

  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.
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  On-the-Job Training: Articulation Therapy Insights with Michelle Gage 14.04.2026 22min

  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.
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  Understanding Childhood Apraxia of Speech with Laura Baskall-Smith 31.03.2026 29min

  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.
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  Breaking Down Communication Barriers with Ner Chat 17.03.2026 27min

  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.
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  Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part Two 03.03.2026 22min

  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.
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  Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part 1 17.02.2026 16min

  In this episode, Michelle kicks off a two-part series focusing on critical developmental skills that precede speech. While many parents and caregivers eagerly await a child’s first words, several foundational milestones must occur first to support successful communication. Michelle breaks down these essential skills, offering practical advice for parents, caregivers, and speech-language pathologists on how to spot them and why they matter. Michelle explores the importance of early interactions, such as reacting to the environment and responding to people. She explains how simple activities like playing with crinkly toys, listening to music, or engaging in "peekaboo" help build the cognitive framework for language. The discussion also covers the significance of turn-taking, attention span, and joint attention—skills that serve as the building blocks for future conversational ability.
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  Fluency, Anxiety, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Tim Mackesey 03.02.2026 39min

  Episode Summary In this episode, Michelle sits down with Tim McKenzie, a board-certified specialist in fluency disorders with over 33 years of experience. Tim brings a unique perspective to the conversation, as he is both a seasoned clinician and a person who stutters. Together, they explore the complexities of fluency disorders, moving beyond the mechanics of speech to address the deep emotional and psychological components of stuttering. Tim shares his personal journey, from negative experiences with speech therapy in childhood to finding his own path to confidence. He discusses his fascinating work as an expert witness for cases involving sudden onset stuttering following brain injury and details how he integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into his practice to help clients manage social anxiety. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Tim McKenzie and Fluency Disorders 01:59 – The Role of an Expert Witness in Sudden Onset Stuttering Cases 03:30 – Tim’s Personal Journey: From "Stutterer" to Person Who Stutters 09:57 – The Anxiety of Stuttering in Professional Settings 11:42 – A Shift in Perspective: The Impact of Dean Williams 17:16 – Stuttering in High-Stakes Professions: Police, Pilots, and Medical Students 22:07 – Therapy Approaches: Direct Models for Preschoolers vs. CBT for Adults 26:22 – The Developmental Impact of Stuttering at Age Seven 30:15 – Timeline Therapy: Addressing Past Trauma and Reframing Memories 33:26 – Practical Techniques: Using Mind Lines and Conversational Reframing 37:00 – Essential Resources for SLPs: Where to Start with Fluency Quick Notes Guest: Tim McKenzie, Speech-Language Pathologist and Board-Certified Specialist in Fluency Disorders. Resources Mentioned: • Stuttering Foundation of America: Tim recommends their "Pioneer" videos as a foundational resource for SLPs. • The Michael Palin Centre for Stammering (London): A great source for solution-focused therapy and counseling videos. • Book: Mind Lines (for conversational reframing). • Website: stutteringadvice.com (Tim's educational modules). Connect with Us: We love hearing from our listeners! If you have questions about fluency or want to share your own experiences with CBT in therapy, connect with us on Instagram @AMN_allied.
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  A Sneak Peek into 2026! 20.01.2026 19min

  In the first episode of 2026, Michelle gives a special preview of the exciting guests and topics lined up for SLP Full Disclosure in the coming months. From groundbreaking AAC technology and fluency therapy to the worlds of voice coaching and pediatric feeding, this season is packed with diverse expertise. Listen in as Michelle shares how she discovers incredible SLPs on social media and introduces the specialists who will be joining the show. You'll hear about upcoming discussions on everything from being a traveling SLP and navigating your clinical fellowship year to the complexities of dysphagia and apraxia. Get ready for a year of fun, learning, and insightful conversations with leaders and innovators in the field of speech-language pathology.
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  ASHA 2025 Convention Recap 09.12.2025 7min

  In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, Michelle shares an exciting recap of the ASHA 2025 Convention in Washington, D.C. Celebrating ASHA's centennial anniversary, this year's convention was a massive gathering of nearly 15,000 speech-language pathologists, graduate students, and exhibitors from around the world. Listen in as Michelle discusses the incredible energy at the AMN Healthcare booth, the surprising prevalence of AI in therapy discussions, and the valuable connections made with fellow professionals. She also shares personal highlights, including finally meeting her recruiter of five years and attending an inspiring session with Abby from "Love on the Spectrum." Whether you attended the convention or are curious about the latest in the SLP world, this episode covers the key takeaways, professional opportunities, and what to look forward to at ASHA 2026.
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  From Texas to Cabo: A Global Perspective on Cleft Palate Care with Regina Ramone 25.11.2025 39min

  In this episode, we're joined by Regina Ramone, a Speech Language Pathologist who brings a unique perspective from her work in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Regina shares her journey from Texas to directing a clinic in Mexico, focusing on the critical care for children with cleft lip and palate. She discusses the significant differences in speech pathology services, early intervention, and family support between the U.S. and Mexico. This conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of providing multidisciplinary care in an area where speech therapy is still an emerging profession and resources can be scarce.
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  Supporting Bilingual Students in Speech Therapy with Natalie Jaramillo 11.11.2025 30min

  In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, Michelle is joined by AMN Healthcare teletherapist and bilingual SLP, Natalie Jaramillo. Natalie shares her expertise on supporting Spanish-speaking students in a school setting, from the importance of a thorough family interview to understand a child's language exposure and cultural background to how dynamic assessments can reveal a child's learning potential beyond standardized testing. They also discuss common articulation differences between Spanish and English, strategies for improving intelligibility without diminishing a child's cultural identity, and the nuances of assessing language skills in both languages.