Brainstorms: Functional Neurorehab for SLPs

Burnout is one of the most common concerns among speech-language pathologists. But is the problem always workload? Or could it sometimes be misalignment?Guest: Angelyn Franks, SLPD, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YouTubeIn this episode of Brainstorms: Functional Neurorehab for SLPs, host Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, sits down with Dr. Angelyn Franks, SLPD, CCC-SLP, to explore the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling out of alignment in your professional role. Together, they unpack why burnout does not always come from too much work. Sometimes it comes from a mismatch between your values, strengths, scope of practice, and the environment in which you work.About the Guest: Dr. Angelyn Franks, SLPD, CCC-SLP, is a burnout coach, mindfulness expert, and speech-language pathologist dedicated to helping healthcare professionals, educators, and caregivers break free from burnout and design lives rooted in what truly matters. Drawing on years of clinical practice—and firsthand experience with the burnout cycle—she equips her clients with evidence-based tools to manage stress, set meaningful boundaries, and align their self-care with their core values.Show Notes:Contact Angelyn Franks: dr.angelynfranks on IGMentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

As an SLP, are you in control of your money—or is your money quietly controlling you?Guest: Valeria Gary, MA, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YouTubeIn this episode, Valeria Gary, MA, CCC-SLP, joins host Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, for a candid conversation about money in our profession. Together, they address the financial realities SLPs face across settings and career stages, and why traditional budgeting advice often misses the mark for healthcare providers.About the Guest: Valeria Gary, M.A., CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist and owner of Thrive Collective Coaching LLC, where she coaches healthcare professionals on writing conference proposals and provides copywriting services for small businesses. She is also a certified YNAB coach, helping clinicians apply intentional budgeting strategies to the unique financial demands of a healthcare career.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

***** Originally Aired: June 12, 2024*****Guest: Nicole DePalma, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode: Complete the accompanying course online with Speech Therapy PDIn this episode, Renee is joined by Nicole DePalma to discuss mobile FEES. Mobile FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is powerful in dysphagia assessment. It improves patients' access to care by providing another option for an instrumental swallowing exam. This episode will delve into what mobile FEES can and cannot provide. Join Renee and Nicole as they share insights on gaining competency in FEES. Let's explore how collaboration can enhance patient outcomes in this crucial area of healthcare.About the Guest: Nicole DePalma, MS, CCC-SLP, is the owner of NDoscopy Dysphagia Specialists. She received her bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and her master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from New York Medical College. She has over 15 years of clinical experience working with patients with dysphagia, including medically complex cases such as those with tracheostomy and mechanical ventilation.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

What does gut health have to do with brain function, communication, and recovery? More than we once thought.Guest: Jean Maxwell, DSc, RDN,Earn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YouTubeIn this episode of Brainstorms, Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, sits down with registered dietitian Dr. Jean Maxwell, DSc, RDN, to explore the powerful connection between the gut and the brain and why speech-language pathologists and dietitians are stronger together when supporting individuals with neurological conditions.About the Guest: Jean Maxwell, DSc, RDN, is a registered dietitian, doctor of integrative healthcare, and owner of MaxWell Nutrition LLC. She provides holistic, personalized nutrition counseling rooted in both science and the individual's specific needs. She has two decades of experience providing medical nutrition therapy to people with chronic illnesses and digestive issues, helping them achieve and maintain a healthy weight, and working with those looking to improve their wellness through better nutrition.Show Notes:Contact Jean: @maxwellnutrition on InstagramMaxWell Nutrition LLC Dirty Dozen and Clean 15Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

*****Originally Aired: April 11, 2024*****Guest: Alison Barclift, MSEd, CCC-SLP, ASDCSEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/brainstorms-all-things-adult-autism-One misconception is that once children grow into adults, their needs diminish. For some autistic people, that is true. However, legal and caregiver concerns change and are not widely known outside the autistic community. So, join Renee and Alison, who have worked with autism across the lifespan for 20 years, for this educational and empowering hour for SLPs and families/caregivers of autistic adults.About the Guest: Alison Barclift, MSEd, CCC-SLP, ASDCS, is a pediatric SLP and team coordinator with Sentara Healthcare in Southeastern Virginia. She manages 3 pediatric clinics and staff serving 3 cities for Early Intervention. She has been an SLP for 13 years and specializes in Autism. She has worked with autistic people of all ages for 20 years. She is certified in Early Intervention and ADOS-2 administration.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

Guest: Stephane Ratway, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/beyond-mobilityWhen most people think about spinal cord injury (SCI), they think about mobility. But for speech-language pathologists, the impact of SCI goes far beyond movement.In this episode, Stephane Ratway, MS, CCC-SLP, and Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, examine how SLPs support quality of life after SCI through ventilator weaning, breath support for speech, cough strength, and secretion management, as well as voice, communication, cognition, swallowing, and airway protection. These areas are central to patient safety, participation, and long-term outcomes, yet they are often misunderstood or underestimated within the rehab process. Whether you work in acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, or outpatient neuro settings, this episode will broaden your view of your role on the SCI team. Recovery is not just about movement. It is about being heard, being safe, and staying connected. You will walk away with practical, functional treatment approaches you can use right away.About the Guest: Stephane Philippe-Ratway received her M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology from Florida State University in 1993. She has over three decades of experience working across the healthcare continuum, including trauma ICUs, acute care settings, rehabilitation, and home health. She has delivered numerous presentations at conferences and currently serves in the leadership council of the Spinal Cord Injury Support Group of South Florida and on the Women’s Support Group.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

*****Originally Aired: July 25, 2024*****Guest: Rachael Silveira, MA, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/tracheostomies-and-upper-airways-demystifiedIn this episode, Renee is joined by Rachael Silveira to discuss tracheostomies and ventilators, and how to assemble a multidisciplinary team to care for patients with respiratory compromise. Managing patients with tracheostomy and/or ventilator dependency requires an interdisciplinary approach to ensure safety and optimal care. Through continuous monitoring, regular assessments, and nutritional support, SLPs are a crucial component of this team. SLPs are also critical to communication for these patients and to the education and support of the caregiving team/families. Effective management of tracheostomized and ventilated patients with compromised respiratory systems requires comprehensive, coordinated care tailored to each patient's needs. About the Guest: Rachael Silveira, MA, CCC-SLP, is an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist specializing in dysphagia and communication disorders at a Level 1 Trauma/Transplant Hospital in Miami. With advanced training in dysphagia management for respiratory-compromised and medically complex neurogenic populations, Rachael brings clinical depth and interdisciplinary leadership to her practice. A lifelong learner, she earns annual ACE (Award for Continuing Education) recognition and actively mentors fellow clinicians. Rachael is deeply committed to patient advocacy and quality of life, having spearheaded multidisciplinary Tracheostomy Teams across multiple facilities to implement standardized protocols and streamline care. She is also a passionate educator and innovator in the medical SLP space. Her initiatives include the “Badge Buddy Series” and TRACHtalks—an open-access collaborative promoting evidence-based tracheostomy care. Through national and international conference presentations, active research, and guest lectures at universities and hospitals, Rachael continues to elevate medical SLP education and practice. Her work reflects a powerful blend of clinical excellence, advocacy, and community-building in speech-language pathology.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

*****Originally Aired: August 19, 2024*****Guest: Pamela Rowe, MA, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/social-determinants-of-mental-health-and-the-role-of-the-slpRenee is joined by Pamela Rowe, MA, CCC-SLP, to discuss social determinants of mental health and their relation to speech-language pathology. Social determinants of mental health are conditions in the environments in which people are born, live, work, and age that affect a wide range of health, functioning, and quality-of-life outcomes, as well as the risks associated with these domains. Social determinants of mental health can affect the development and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders. Understanding and addressing these social determinants can improve mental health outcomes as well as empower SLPs to design and implement more holistic treatment approaches. Join Renee and Pamela for an hour of impactful discussion.About the Guest: Pamela Rowe, MA, CCC-SLP, is the Clinical Director of Pamela Rowe, MA, CCC-SLP, LLC, an adult and pediatric therapy practice with seven locations across Florida. Her multidisciplinary team provides Speech, Occupational, Physical, and Respiratory Therapy services to clients of all ages. Pamela is currently pursuing dual graduate degrees—a Doctor of Health Sciences and a Master of Public Health—at the University of Indianapolis. She is the co-author of *Putting Your Dreams To Work: Keys To Setting Up Your Therapy Practice* and *Start Your Engines: A Road Map to Your Clinical Fellowship Year*, both designed to guide aspiring clinicians through professional milestones. As a continuing partner with various state agencies, Pamela is passionate about helping individuals find their voice and communicate with confidence in their communities. Her work reflects a commitment to clinical excellence, public health advocacy, and empowering others through education and access.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

*****Originally Aired: April 16, 2024****Guest: Stephanie Sweigart, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/brainstorms-compassionate-communication-strategies-in-speechIn this episode, Renee is joined by Stephanie to discuss compassionate communication strategies. Whether you are using these strategies in therapy, with caregivers, colleagues, or multidisciplinary teams, we can build the skills needed to enhance collaboration and innovation. What does the 4-step pathway entail? How can we, as SLPs, remain non-reactive when tough situations or conversations occur? Join Renee and Stephanie for an interactive and empowering delve into compassionate communication.About the Guest: Stephanie Michele Sweigart, MS, CCC-SLP, is a leading expert in mindfulness and compassion-based practices in special education. Certified as both a Speech-Language Pathologist and a Teacher of Mindfulness Meditation, she integrates holistic approaches into clinical and educational settings to empower professionals and students alike. Stephanie Michele is the founder of Golden State Speech Pathology Services, Inc., a woman-owned Non-Public Agency established in 2013. She is the author and creator of the acclaimed courses ShiftMakers: 1.0 and The Framework to Becoming a Mindful Speech Clinician. A frequent presenter at national and state conventions—including ASHA 2023 and 2024, and CSHA Convergence 2025—she also served as a YouTube host for SpeechTherapyPD.com. Her insights have been featured on podcasts such as Speechie Side Up, SLP Coffee Talk, and Speech Science Podcast, where she shares her passion for professional mindfulness and holistic practice. Stephanie Michele is a proud supporter of The Center for Non-Violent Communication, and her mission is to help individuals communicate with clarity and compassion to create lasting impact in special education.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

Guest: Farwa Husain, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/echolaliai-in-adulthoodIn this episode of Brainstorms, Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, is joined by Farwa Husain, MS, CCC-SLP, for a thoughtful conversation on echolalia in adulthood and how Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) can support meaningful communication growth for adults with neurogenic language disorders. Together, they explore why honoring authentic, emotionally salient language matters just as much in adulthood as it does in childhood, and how echolalia can be understood as part of a functional communication system rather than something to eliminate.Farwa and Renee break down the core principles of NLA and discuss how these concepts translate beyond pediatric practice into adult neurorehab, including acute care and medically complex settings. They share practical ways SLPs can incorporate naturalistic language modeling, consider gestalt language processing, and prioritize relationship-centered communication while still addressing cognitive communication goals and therapy demands.This episode also addresses common misconceptions about echolalia in adults, how NLA can complement cognitive-communication rehabilitation, and real-world clinical examples illustrating these approaches. Whether you are new to NLA or looking to expand your adult neurorehab toolbox, this conversation offers evidence-aligned strategies to help adults reconnect with their voice using the brain’s natural learning pathways.About the Guest: Farwa is the Founder of First Phrases and the Owner of One-on-One Speech Therapy, specializing in neurodiversity-affirming care and support for echolalia. She designs nationally recognized interdisciplinary programs, including the Connect and Play summer intensive, and serves as an international presenter, providing professional development training for schools and organizations. Farwa also serves as President of the Morris County Speech and Hearing Association and has been recognized as the 2024 “Clinician of the Year” by NBASLH and an “Innovator" in the field of speech language pathology by ASHA.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

Guest: Melissa Brunner, PhD, MHlthSC, CPSPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/rebuilding-social-connectionIn this episode of Brainstorms, host Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, is joined by Dr. Melissa Brunner, PhD, MHlthSC, CPSP, to explore how social media can support connection and identity rebuilding after acquired brain injury when used thoughtfully and safely. Social media has the potential to offer community, purpose, and support after ABI, but for many survivors and caregivers, it can also feel overwhelming, risky, or confusing. Renee and Dr. Brunner introduce the concept of SocialAbility and share practical, functional strategies SLPs can use to help clients navigate online spaces with greater confidence, boundaries, and self-awareness. Designed for SLPs, caregivers, and survivors alike, this conversation offers compassionate guidance and real-world approaches for using social media as a meaningful and safe bridge back to social connection. About theGuest: Dr. Melissa (Liss) Brunner, PhD, MHlthSC, CPSP, is a Senior Lecturer and certified practicing speech pathologist at the University of Sydney, Australia. She has over twenty years of experience in the assessment and management of swallowing and communication difficulties in adults, particularly working with people who have experienced a stroke or traumatic brain injury. Her clinical research addresses the use of digital health solutions to support participation and inclusion, in particular, the complexity of issues surrounding people with ABI using social media and how they may (or may not) be addressed during their rehabilitation. She is passionate about including people with lived experience in her work and is an author of social-ABI-ity training (part of the Social Brain Toolkit project).Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

Guest: Julie A. Fechter, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/autonomic-wildcardIn this episode, Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, is joined by Julie A. Fechter, MS, CCC-SLP, to explore dysautonomia, an often overlooked but highly impactful factor in neurorehabilitation. Autonomic dysfunction can quietly influence attention, fatigue, communication tolerance, swallowing safety, and overall engagement, showing up in therapy sessions in ways that are easy to miss or misinterpret.This conversation is especially relevant for clinicians working with adults following stroke, TBI, long COVID, and other neurologic conditions. Renee and Julie walk through common red flags, practical assessment considerations, and therapy modifications that help protect energy and support carryover. If you have ever wondered why a patient’s alertness, vital signs, or cognitive endurance seem inconsistent from session to session, this episode offers a clearer framework for understanding what may be happening and how to adapt your clinical approach with greater confidence.About the Guest: Julie A. Fechter, MS, CCC-SLP, is an adult medical SLP with 15 years of experience across nearly every setting imaginable. Specializing in Parkinson’s in her home health clinical practice, Julie was recently diagnosed with Sjogren's disease. She participated in a clinical trial, which significantly deepened her understanding of the patient experience. Julie has spoken at state speech conventions in California and Louisiana, as well as for the APDA NW. Julie spends time outside of work traveling (60+ countries), baking, arguing about politics, and moderating speech Facebook groups.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

*****Originally Aired: December 26, 2024*****Guest: Sucheta Kamath, MA, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=From-Grassroots-to-Global-The-Power-of-Advocacy-at-Every-LevIn this episode, Sucheta Kamath, MA, CCC-SLP, joins Renee to explore the advocacy journey from grassroots efforts to large-scale impact. Learn how to identify the power of local, community-based action and how it can spark change at the national and even global levels. We will discuss stories of advocates who started small and scaled their efforts, insights into building effective movements, and tips for anyone looking to make a difference in their community. This episode will empower you with the tools and motivation to drive meaningful change – wherever you are.About the Guest: Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

*****Originally Aired: April 24, 2025*****Guests: Petra Avramović, PhD, CPSP, MSPAA, and Sophie Brassel, PhD, MSPA-CPSP Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Virtual-Reality-and-AI-in-Communication-Rehab-after-Brain-InJoin host Renee Garrett as she interviews Dr. Sophie Brassel and Dr. Petra Avramović, renowned lecturers and researchers in speech pathology from the University of Sydney. This episode examines the transformative potential of Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in speech pathology. Dr. Brassel discusses her groundbreaking research on using VR to address cognitive communication disorders following traumatic brain injury. At the same time, Dr. Avramović explores the potential and current uses of AI in supporting communication rehabilitation. The episode also offers insights into the Australian clinical education structure for speech pathologists, comparing it with the U.S. system. A must-watch for anyone interested in the future of speech and language therapy!About the Guests: Dr. Sophie Brassel is a lecturer and early-career researcher in the Discipline of Speech Pathology at the University of Sydney. She is a certified practicing speech pathologist with extensive experience in assessing and managing adults with communication difficulties. Before joining the University of Sydney, Sophie worked as a speech pathologist in the public health system and as a research assistant on projects relating to communication recovery following traumatic brain injury. Sophie completed her PhD at the University of Sydney within the Acquired Brain Injury Communication Lab. Her thesis explored the use of immersive virtual reality in rehabilitation for cognitive-communication disorders following traumatic brain injury. Sophie’s research examines the use of digital health technologies to support communication after acquired brain injury, while her teaching focuses on practice education for speech pathology students.Dr. Petra Avramović is a lecturer, clinical educator, early-career researcher, and certified practicing speech pathologist. Petra completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Speech Pathology) with First Class Honours and completed her PhD within the Acquired Brain Injury Communication Lab at the University of Sydney. She has held several roles in clinical and research settings with a variety of populations, with a particular focus on working with people with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Her thesis, entitled “The development and evaluation of convers-ABI-lity: an online communication partner training platform for people with traumatic brain injury”, aimed to collaboratively develop a novel multimodal communication partner training program with people with TBI and others involved in their care, and to evaluate its effectiveness and efficacy for improving conversation skills following TBI. Petra is involved in academic, clinical education, and research supervision for speech pathology students within the university.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

*****Originally Aired: July 10, 2025*****TRIGGER WARNING: As a trauma-informed care provider, it’s essential to let you know that this episode may contain subject matter that is a trigger for some listeners. Incidents of traumatic events, injuries, and mental health issues will be discussed. Please listen with caution if these situations are a source of trauma or concern for your mental health. While our guest continues to recover from these events, please note that the content may be challenging to listen to.Guest: Megan DaubertEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/faithbased-caregiverIn this heartfelt episode, Renee Garrett welcomes guest Megan Daubert. Megan shares her powerful journey as a full-time caregiver to her husband, Mike, after he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest that led to an anoxic brain injury. The conversation delves into the medical and emotional challenges faced, the importance of community support, and the transformative role of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in rehabilitation. Megan offers valuable insights and words of encouragement for caregivers navigating similar struggles, emphasizing the significance of faith, resilience, and self-care.About the Guest: Megan Daubert lives in Virginia Beach with her husband, Mike, and their three children. After nearly losing Mike in early 2024 to sudden cardiac arrest, Megan became a full-time caregiver to her husband as they work through living life with an anoxic brain injury. Megan began podcasting and sharing their journey of healing, caregiving, and dealing with life after a post-traumatic event. Megan openly aims to give a voice to the unseen struggles families face with brain injuries and encourages people to lean into their surrounding communities.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference

*****Originally Aired: May 1, 2025*****Guest: Felicia Francois, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Empowering-Voices-GenderAffirming-Voice-CareJoin Renee Garrett as she hosts Felicia Francois, a queer, non-binary speech language pathologist specializing in voice and upper airway disorders, on the Speech Therapy PD podcast. In this insightful episode, Felicia discusses the intricacies of gender-affirming voice care, including their philosophy, the importance of patient-centered approaches, and various techniques and surgeries that can help align a patient’s voice with their gender identity. The conversation delves into Felicia's background, the role of SLPs before and after gender-affirming surgeries, and the critical aspect of mental health in this specialized field. Whether you’re an experienced clinician or new to this niche, this episode provides valuable knowledge and techniques for delivering inclusive and effective care.About the Guest: Felicia François (they/she) is a queer, nonbinary, white speech-language pathologist specializing in voice and upper airway. They have a passion for gender-affirming voice care and lead the gender-affirming voice care initiative at the USC Voice Center in Los Angeles, California, where they also work with performing vocalists and a variety of other patients with voice and upper airway disorders. She is passionate about advancing research on gender-affirming voice care and improving the quality of life for individuals with voice disorders.Mentioned in this episode:Register for the 2026 Autism Conference