Episodes

  • Celebrating SLP Month, Career Growth, and New Opportunities in Speech Pathology LIVE

    Celebrating SLP Month, Career Growth, and New Opportunities in Speech Pathology LIVE
    May 12 2026
    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. Chapters 00:00 – Celebrating Speech and Hearing Month and Kicking Off the Live Episode 03:38 – Michelle’s SLP Journey Through Schools, Early Intervention, Travel, and Teletherapy 06:07 – Why Teletherapy Works and What Michelle Learned During the Pandemic 09:07 – Career Possibilities for New Grads and the Diversity of Speech Pathology 12:34 – Favorite Podcast Episodes, Niche Topics, and Upcoming Guests 18:35 – Listener Q and A: Summer Work, CF Advice, and Choosing the Right Job 24:27 – How Recruiters and the AMN Passport App Can Support Your Job Search 29:17 – What New Grads Should Look for in a Clinical Fellowship 31:39 – Jill Shares the Mission Behind the Alumni Ambassador Program 36:09 – Common Misunderstandings About Travel Therapy for New Grads 46:32 – Featured SLP Job Opportunities Across the Country 57:16 – A Closing Message to Celebrate SLPs Everywhere Key Concepts Discussed: Speech-Language-Hearing Month: A reminder of the meaningful role SLPs play in helping people communicate, connect, and build stronger relationships with the world around them.Career Flexibility in Speech Pathology: Michelle’s story highlights how an SLP career can grow across settings, including public schools, early intervention, travel contracts, and teletherapy.Finding the Right Job Fit: Whether you are considering a CF, a school role, or a contract position, choosing a setting that matches your goals, schedule, and support needs matters.Alumni Ambassador Program: AMN Healthcare’s program helps connect students and upcoming grads with experienced clinicians who can share insight, encouragement, and guidance.Recruiter Support and Job Search Tools: Recruiters and the AMN Passport app can help SLPs explore jobs, narrow options, and build a career path with more confidence. Guest Bio: Jill Pantle, Director of the University Program for Allied and Alumni Ambassadors at AMN Healthcare, joined the episode to discuss the Alumni Ambassador program and how it supports students and new graduates entering the field. A former recruiter, Jill brings years of experience helping clinicians explore career opportunities, build meaningful connections, and feel supported as they move into the next stage of their professional journey. Breana Donnelly is an Associate Brand Manager on the Allied Brand team at AMN Healthcare, where she focuses on creating thoughtful, engaging marketing strategies that support allied healthcare professionals throughout their career journey. She works closely on the SLP Full Disclosure podcast, helping bring meaningful conversations and resources to speech-language pathologists through storytelling, social content, and clinician-focused initiatives. Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure PodcastLevel up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today! Episode Sponsor:We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare. Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today! WebsiteTikTokInstagramYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotifyPowered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    59 mins
  • Taking Control of Your Career: The Power of Travel Therapy with Kristie Yakovich

    Taking Control of Your Career: The Power of Travel Therapy with Kristie Yakovich
    Apr 28 2026

    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 celebrating all SLPs—with special guests, great conversations, and $500 worth of giveaways to share.

    Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast


    Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!

    Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program.

    Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!

    Episode Sponsor:

    We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.

    Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!

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    Apple Podcasts

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    Powered by AMN Healthcare


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    28 mins
  • On-the-Job Training: Articulation Therapy Insights with Michelle Gage

    On-the-Job Training: Articulation Therapy Insights with Michelle Gage
    Apr 14 2026

    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


    Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast


    Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!

    Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program.

    Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!

    Episode Sponsor:

    We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.

    Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!


    Website

    TikTok
    Instagram

    YouTube

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify


    Powered by AMN Healthcare


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    23 mins
  • Understanding Childhood Apraxia of Speech with Laura Baskall-Smith

    Understanding Childhood Apraxia of Speech with Laura Baskall-Smith
    Mar 31 2026
    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 TikTok: @slpmommyofapraxia Book: Overcoming Apraxia by Laura Smith on Amazon Free DTTC Training (Edythe Strand) Apraxia Kids Website: https://www.apraxia-kids.org/ (Features Edwin Maas's gentle introduction to motor learning) Therapy Materials: Bjorem Speech Sound Cues: https://www.bjoremspeech.com/ Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure PodcastLevel up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today! Episode Sponsor:We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare. Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today! WebsiteTikTokInstagramYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotifyPowered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    29 mins
  • Breaking Down Communication Barriers with Ner Chat

    Breaking Down Communication Barriers with Ner Chat
    Mar 17 2026
    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 Makani02:24 – The Inspiring Story Behind Ner Chat05:10 – Introducing Leaf: AAC in Everyday Messaging08:22 – The Difference Between Ner Chat, Leaf, and Glint09:03 – How Glint Simplifies Visual Support Creation11:24 – Seamless Google Image Integration in Glint13:08 – Sharing and Customizing Visual Boards with Audio16:29 – Partnering with AMN Healthcare and Elevate18:23 – Real-Life Success Stories with Glint23:37 – Dylan's Message to Families and Professionals: You Are Not Alone25:33 – 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 Instagram/Ner.Chat TikTok/Ner_Chat YouTube/Ner_Chat Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure PodcastLevel up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today! Episode Sponsor:We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare. Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today! WebsiteTikTokInstagramYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotifyPowered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    28 mins
  • Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part Two

    Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part Two
    Mar 3 2026

    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


    Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast


    Level up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!

    Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program.

    Share the opportunity and refer a friend today!

    Episode Sponsor:

    We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare.

    Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today!


    Website

    TikTok
    Instagram

    YouTube

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify


    Powered by AMN Healthcare


    Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    23 mins
  • Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part 1

    Foundational Skills for Language Development: Part 1
    Feb 17 2026
    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. Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Foundational Language Skills Series01:53 – Reacting to Events in the Environment03:40 – Responding to People and Developing Social Awareness05:03 – The Importance of Turn-Taking in Early Communication06:15 – Anticipating Events and Developing Object Permanence07:35 – Developing Attention Span: Age-Appropriate Expectations09:00 – Transitioning from Child-Led to Adult-Directed Play10:21 – Shifting and Sharing Joint Attention12:00 – The "Tell, Show, Help" Method for Caregivers14:50 – The Impact of Screen Time on Early Development Quick NotesHost: Michelle, Speech-Language PathologistKey Concepts Discussed:Reacting to the Environment: Encouraging infants to use all senses (sight, sound, touch) to interact with their world.Social Responsiveness: Promoting eye contact, tracking, and listening to voices to establish two-way communication.Turn-Taking: Using games like peekaboo to teach the back-and-forth nature of conversation.Joint Attention: The ability to share focus on an object with another person, a critical precursor to vocabulary development."Tell, Show, Help": A strategy for teaching new skills by verbally explaining, demonstrating, and then physically assisting the child.Resources Mentioned:Child Yoga: A recommended activity to get children moving and ready to focus before seated tasks.Connect with Us: If you have questions about early childhood development or want to share your experiences, connect with us on Instagram @AMN_allied.Subscribe: Don't miss the next episode for Part 2 of this series on foundational language skills. Subscribe to SLP Full Disclosure on your favorite podcast platform. Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure PodcastLevel up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today! Episode Sponsor:We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare. Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today! WebsiteTikTokInstagramYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotifyPowered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    17 mins
  • Fluency, Anxiety, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Tim Mackesey

    Fluency, Anxiety, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Tim Mackesey
    Feb 3 2026
    Episode SummaryIn this episode, Michelle sits down with Tim Mackesey, 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. Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Tim Mackesey and Fluency Disorders01:59 – The Role of an Expert Witness in Sudden Onset Stuttering Cases03:30 – Tim’s Personal Journey: From "Stutterer" to Person Who Stutters09:57 – The Anxiety of Stuttering in Professional Settings11:42 – A Shift in Perspective: The Impact of Dean Williams17:16 – Stuttering in High-Stakes Professions: Police, Pilots, and Medical Students22:07 – Therapy Approaches: Direct Models for Preschoolers vs. CBT for Adults26:22 – The Developmental Impact of Stuttering at Age Seven30:15 – Timeline Therapy: Addressing Past Trauma and Reframing Memories33:26 – Practical Techniques: Using Mind Lines and Conversational Reframing37:00 – Essential Resources for SLPs: Where to Start with Fluency Quick NotesGuest: Tim Mackesey, 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. Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure PodcastLevel up your career today! Connect with a recruiter!Support for every step. Learn more about AMN Healthcare's EAP Program. Share the opportunity and refer a friend today! Episode Sponsor:We're proudly sponsored by AMN Healthcare, the leader in healthcare staffing and workforce solutions. Explore their services at AMN Healthcare. Discover job opportunities and manage your assignments with ease using AMN Passport. Download the AMN Passport App today! WebsiteTikTokInstagramYouTubeApple PodcastsSpotifyPowered by AMN Healthcare Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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    40 mins