In this episode, we chat with Andrew Ross about life with ALS, navigating communication through AAC, and the moments that are real, frustrating, and deeply human along the way. Andrew shares what it is actually like to communicate using eye gaze, from slow typing and group conversations to the importance of strong communication partners. This episode is a reminder that communication is more than speech, and that he is still the same person, just communicating differently.

Time to talk Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)! Which is all the ways people communicate besides talking. We'll break down the broad spectrum of AAC options, from no-tech solutions to high-tech devices, and share practical insights from our work in speech therapy.

Key Topics:

• What AAC really means (spoiler: it's not just devices!)
• The AAC spectrum: no-tech, low-tech, and high-tech options
• Four principles learned from working with rehabilitation engineer, Kevin Caves
• Real-world examples: from Bojangles ordering cards to eye gaze technology
• Physical access considerations and when to involve PT/OT colleagues
• Insurance funding for dedicated vs. non-dedicated devices
• Why the device itself isn't the goal, but communication is

Favorite Tools Mentioned:

• Boogie boards (LCD writing tablets)
• Eye Link boards for eye gaze spelling
• Speech Assistant AAC app ($23.99 iOS, free Android)
• Voice amplifiers for energy conservation
• Wireless doorbells for attention-getting

Special Guest Preview: Stay tuned for an upcoming interview with Andrew, an incredible AAC user who creates documentaries and podcasts using eye gaze technology. Follow him @andrewwithals on Instagram.

Connect with The Lowkey SLPs on Instagram & TikTok: @thelowkeyslps Email: thelowkeyslps@gmail.com

Join us for the first of our interview series, Lowkey Chats. This episode's guest is the one and only Dr. Rick Bedlack—neurologist and founder of the Duke ALS Clinic, researcher, and the most stylish doctor you’ll ever meet. He’s on a mission to bring hope, innovation, and maybe even a little bit of flair to the fight against ALS. We talk about why teamwork and resilience are game-changers and how getting to know the people you care for makes all the difference. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a doctor who’s redefining what it means to support those living with ALS.

We’re talking dysarthria treatment—but with a twist! Inspired by the 5 D’s of Dodgeball (dodge, duck, dip, dive, and dodge 🏆), we created The 5 S’s of Dysarthria Treatment—a fun and practical way to help SLPs think about all the key elements of great therapy.

Dysarthria...what exactly is it, and how do we explain it to patients and families? In this episode, we break down the basics of dysarthria, common causes, and why SLPs play a key role in diagnosis and education. We’ll share how we approach conversations about dysarthria, set expectations, and advocate for our patients in meaningful ways.

Ever catch yourself saying the same phrases in therapy over and over? Yeah, us too. In this episode, we’re sharing the one-liners we’ve found ourselves repeating over the years—whether they help us build rapport, motivate patients, or just keep sessions on track. These go-to phrases have stuck around for a reason! Whether you're a seasoned clinician, a student, or just here for the vibes, we hope you’ll walk away with a few new gems to add to your therapy toolkit.

What do SLPs in healthcare really do? In this episode, we’re answering this common question! Tune in as we share audio clips of our friends and family trying to explain our job (spoiler: they get some of it right!) and break down what our role looks like in adult-focused therapy. Whether you’re an SLP, a student, or just curious, we hope you take a listen!

Hosted by: Meredith Nye & Sarah Koontz

Music Composed & Performed by: Creighton Irons

Join Sarah Koontz and Meredith Nye as we kick off The Lowkey SLPs! In this trailer, we introduce ourselves, share our mission to create a fun, inviting space for all things related to adult speech therapy, and give you a sneak peek into what’s coming. Whether you’re an SLP, a student, or just curious about the field, we’re here to keep it low-key, relatable, and full of value. Tune in for practical insights, laughs, and real talk about making therapy meaningful.Credits:

- Hosts: Sarah Koontz, Meredith Nye

- Editor: Sarah Koontz

- Music Written & Preformed by: Creighton Irons