***Originally Aired: March 6, 2025***

Guest: Nancy Horowitz Bertsch, MA, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Seeing-the-Light-A-Journey-Through-Recovery-from-a-Mild-Conc

Join Renee Garrett and her guest, Nancy Horowitz Bertsch, an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) with over 40 years of experience, as they discuss the personal and professional dimensions of post-concussion syndrome. In this episode, Nancy shares her own journey of recovering from a fall and concussion, illuminating the complex interplay of symptoms, the need for tailored therapy, and the critical role SLPs can play in managing such injuries. From her experiences with healthcare professionals to the importance of advocacy and personalized care, this episode provides a comprehensive look at post-concussion syndrome, especially in older adults. Tune in to gain valuable insights that can augment your practice and understanding of neuro-rehab for concussions.

About the Guest: Nancy Horowitz Bertsch, MA, CCC-SLP, is a practicing SLP with over 40 years of experience working with adults with neurogenic communication disorders, including TBI. Nancy worked across all practice settings, including hospitals, private practice, home health, telehealth, and as a department director for two hospitals. Nancy has presented nationally at ASHA and is a graduate of the Leadership Development Program. She was a peer reviewer for the TBI committee (ASHA convention). She is the founder/director of the Well Together Neuro Rehab (trademarked) group. Nancy was a contributing author for CSHA magazine and a presenter for CSHA-California, ArSHA, and CSHA-Colorado. Additionally, Nancy has presented several oral seminars and posters. She was an author of CEU online courses at Northern Speech Services.

***Originally Aired: January 16, 2025***

Guest: Irene H. Kim, MA, CCC-SLP, CSRP, CBIS

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Body-and-Mind-in-Harmony-Interdisciplinary-Paths-to-Neurolog

In this episode, Irene H. Kim joins Renee to explore the powerful connection between body and cognition in neurological rehabilitation. We will dive into interdisciplinary approaches in the long-term acute care (LTac) setting, including dual-tasking, neuroplasticity, co-treats, and program development. Join us to learn more about insights and the latest research driving this holistic approach to healing in an often unknown practice setting.

*****Originally Aired: February 28, 2025

Guest: Rebecca Weber, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Insights-into-Mild-Cognitive-Impairment-MCI

Join Renee Garrett as she welcomes Rebecca Weber, founder of Navigating Neurospeech Therapy. This episode delves into the complexities of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), its distinction from normal aging, and early signs of dementia. Rebecca discusses her approach to assessing and treating MCI using a person-centered care model, emphasizing functional strategies and holistic health measures. Gain insights into speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) valuable role in diagnosing and managing MCI and supporting patients and caregivers.

About the Guest:

Rebecca Weber, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS, is the founder/owner and primary Speech Language Pathologist at Navigating Neuro Speech Therapy (NNST), an adult-focused private practice. She specializes in providing speech, language, and cognitive therapy for those who have had a stroke, suffer from a concussion or brain injury, have mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or neurodegenerative diagnoses such as Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA), and Dementia. Rebecca is in South Jersey, right outside Philadelphia, and provides in-home visits and telehealth services in NJ. With over 12 years of experience in various settings, Rebecca founded her practice due to a passion for person-centered care and filling a gap for needed outpatient therapy within the community.

Guest: Beth McHose, MS Ed, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/aac-more-than-just-expression

In this episode of Brainstorms, Renee Garrett, MSED, CCC-SLP, CBIS, is joined by Beth McHose, MS Ed, CCC-SLP, to explore the many roles AAC plays beyond expression. Together, they discuss how AAC can build stronger relationships, support understanding, foster emotional well-being, and empower individuals across different settings.

You’ll hear case examples, practical strategies, and insights from lived experiences to help you grow more confident in integrating AAC into your work. Whether you support patients, clients, students, or caregivers, this conversation offers meaningful takeaways for anyone looking to make AAC a more natural and powerful part of communication.

About the Guest: Beth McHose, MS Ed, CCC-SLP, is a speech pathologist currently working as Senior Manager of Clinical Marketing at Lingraphica. She’s an adjunct instructor at Old Dominion University and has clinical experience across the entire spectrum of neurological rehabilitation.

*****Originally Aired: October 24, 2024*****

Guest: Anna Ware, MS, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/bridging-communication-aac-through-a-culturally-humble-lens

In this episode, Renee is joined by Anna Ware, MS, CCC-SLP, to discuss the importance of cultural humility for CSD professionals who evaluate and treat users of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Renee and Anna will explore how to understand better the influence of cultural values, beliefs, and communication norms on AAC users and their communication partners. Included are concrete strategies for creating inclusive communication environments that honor the identities and experiences of individuals from various cultural backgrounds, ensuring more effective and personalized AAC interventions. Join us as we explore how to empower all voices.

About the Guest: Anna Ware, MS, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist with 15 years of clinical experience and a deep passion for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). She has worked across age groups in leading medical institutions including Shirley Ryan Ability Lab and Shriners Hospital in Chicago, where she honed her expertise in AAC assessment and intervention. Anna has taught both continuing education and graduate-level courses on AAC, driven by her mission to make AAC knowledge accessible to clinicians in all settings. She believes that no person should be left without a voice or the opportunity to communicate, and she advocates for both high-tech funding solutions and low-tech, paper-based resources to ensure equitable access to communication. Her advocacy is grounded in cultural humility and a strong sense of responsibility, particularly when helping individuals develop effective means of communication. Anna recently launched her own practice, *AAC Aware PLLC*, in the Chicago area, and shares insights and resources through her Instagram platform [@AAC_Aware](https://www.instagram.com/aac_aware). She earned her Bachelor of Science from Western Michigan University and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Seton Hall University. Now based in Chicago, Anna is raising her family—including her two young sons and spouse—in the city she proudly calls home.

Guest: Lauren Schwabish, MS, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/parenting-through-aphasia

Parenting comes with its own set of challenges, and when aphasia enters the picture, those challenges can become even more complex. In this episode of Brainstorms, Lauren Schwabish, MS, CCC-SLP, joins host Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, to explore what it’s like for parents living with aphasia while raising children at home.

You’ll hear real stories about navigating everyday conversations, staying connected with family, and balancing recovery with parenthood. Lauren and Renee share practical strategies, emotional insights, and resources that can help families maintain meaningful communication and strong bonds.

This conversation highlights resilience, creativity, and the love that keeps families moving forward together.

About the Guest: Lauren Schwabish, MS, CCC-SLP, is the owner of Neuro Speech Services, a private practice based in Northern Virginia, specializing in person-centered assessment and treatment of cognitive-communicative disorders related to stroke, acquired brain injury, mild cognitive impairment, ADHD, and other neurologic and neurodegenerative conditions. She has over 25 years of experience working in hospitals and acute rehabilitation centers. She is passionate about providing meaningful and accessible health education about the brain to patients, families, and healthcare professionals. Lauren is committed to empowering communities with evidence-based information and best practices in brain health behaviors.

*****Originally Aired: December 5, 2024*****

Guest: Maurice Goodwin, MS, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD:https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/mastering-the-basics-voice-fundamentals-for-everyone

In this episode, Maurice Goodwin, MS, CCC-SLP, joins Renee to discuss voice fundamentals and a bonus discussion about singing voice evaluation and treatment. The essential building blocks of a strong, healthy voice are key for singers and speakers. Key features of this episode include the anatomy of the voice, understanding vocal qualities, and how to enhance vocal control to maintain a healthy voice. Maurice will review how SLPs can improve their competency in treating voice disorders. Join us on an engaging journey to begin mastering your voice therapy techniques!

About the Guest: Maurice Goodwin, MS, CCC-SLP, is a licensed and practicing speech-language pathologist, voice teacher, and active performer living in Houston, TX. Professionally, he specializes in the evaluation and treatment of the singing voice and voice disorders at The Texas Voice Center and serves as adjunct faculty at Lamar University in the graduate Vocology Certificate Program. Following his undergraduate studies in music performance at Shenandoah University, he completed his graduate work in speech-language pathology at the University of Pittsburgh. During his time at the University of Pittsburgh Voice Center, he completed his graduate thesis on the challenges and changes that occur in the voices of elderly adults. His background as a performer and speech-language pathologist led him to complete a fellowship at the University of Wisconsin Voice and Swallow Clinics, where he focused on treating singers, actors, teachers, and other occupational voice users with voice problems. He is a regular lecturer and presenter at national and international conferences focused on the health and education of professional voice users. Maurice is passionate about vocal health education and the intersections of identity and voice. He is licensed to practice in the state of Texas and holds national certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

Guest: Melissa Del Pino, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD:https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/maximizing-neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity gives us hope after a traumatic brain injury, but how we as SLPs tap into it makes all the difference. In this episode, Melissa Del Pino, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS, joins host Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, to share how centering patients’ voices, strengths, and lived experiences can lead to more meaningful recovery.

Together, they explore how to align therapy with goals that matter most to patients, recognize the small but powerful communication cues that guide intervention, and create strategies that help the brain rewire in lasting ways.

Tune in for practical, patient-centered approaches that remind us recovery isn’t just about techniques—it’s about truly listening and partnering with the people we serve.

About the Guest: Melissa Del Pino. MS, CCC-SLP, CBIS, is a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, and Dr. Amen–Certified Brain Health Trainer. She is the founder of Speech Like Honey Speech Therapy Inc., a private practice offering speech therapy and consultation services across the lifespan, with a specialized focus on concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Melissa’s passion for brain health and athlete rehabilitation emerged through her clinical journey, where she found her calling in supporting TBI survivors. With a deep understanding of the challenges associated with brain injury and a strong commitment to harnessing neuroplasticity, she works to help individuals regain cognitive function, enhance communication, and optimize overall brain health. Melissa has been invited to speak on numerous topics, including the Life Participation Approach to Aphasia (LPAA), AAC assessment and intervention, creating language-rich environments for late talkers, the role of the SLP in school settings, and the cognitive-communication impacts of brain injury. Outside of her professional work, Melissa enjoys camping, gardening, Zumba, and pottery.

Guest: Jaime Bauer Malandraki, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/heart-of-communication

In this episode of Brainstorms, we look at the often-overlooked role of mental health and its impact on education and rehabilitation. How do emotional well-being and psychological safety influence communication recovery? What can educators and rehabilitation professionals do to support the whole person, rather than just the diagnosis?

Guest Jaime Bauer Malandraki, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, and host Renee Garrett, MSEd, CCC-SLP, CBIS, discuss the emotional toll of mental health challenges faced by students and patients, as well as the role of SLPs and teachers in creating trauma-informed, empathetic environments.

About the Guest: Jaime Bauer Malandraki, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences at Purdue University. She received her bachelor’s degree from Portland State University and her master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her primary clinical and research interests lie in the evaluation and management of swallowing disorders across the lifespan, with a special emphasis on neurodegenerative conditions and head and neck cancer.

Guests: Amber Heape, ClinScD, CCC-SLP, FNAP, and Brittany Horvath, SLPD, CCC-SLP, CDP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/speaking-of-comfort

In this episode, Renee Garrett welcomes Dr. Amber Heape and Dr. Brittany Horvath to explore the vital role SLPs play in these sensitive stages.

Together, they discuss evidence-based strategies for managing dysphagia, approaches to preserving communication, and the importance of aligning care with patient values.

You’ll also learn how SLPs can collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and advocate for compassionate, patient-centered care at the end of life. This conversation highlights the impact you can make in supporting both patients and caregivers when it matters most.

About the Guests: Dr. Amber B. Heape is Assistant Professor and SLPD Concentration Track Director in Health Professions Education at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Her teaching and research focus on aging, dementia, clinical research, and education. An award-winning educator, author, and national presenter, she has published extensively and is a frequent speaker at conferences nationwide. Dr. Heape also serves as Coordinator for ASHA’s Special Interest Group 15 (Gerontology), mentors emerging scholars, and promotes evidence-based practice in speech-language pathology. Over the past 20 years, she has supervised graduate students and guided numerous clinical fellows, helping to shape the next generation of professionals in the field.

Dr. Brittany McKee Horvath has built a diverse career in clinical rehabilitation, leadership, and advocacy. She currently provides expert care in home and community-based neurorehabilitation with Collage Rehabilitation Partners and is passionate about supporting individuals with neurological injuries and diseases. She also continues to serve those in skilled nursing facilities, veterans, and individuals receiving hospice and palliative care services. Brittany advocates for quality of life and shared decision-making at the end of life, ensuring compassionate, individualized care. She has received recognition from the Center to Advance Palliative Care with their designation in Communication Skills for Serious Illness Conversations for her commitment to continued progress toward improving the care of patients with serious illness. Her research on the impact of online palliative care training on SLPs’ self-perceived comfort and knowledge was published in the American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology in January 2025. In addition to her clinical work, Brittany actively contributes to advancing the field through teaching, mentoring, and speaking at conferences on topics related to neurorehabilitation and palliative care. In her free time, Brittany enjoys exercising, coaching her daughters' softball teams, and spending quality time with her family. She is also passionate about giving back to her community and volunteering with Project 4031, a nonprofit organization in North Texas, whose mission focuses on providing peace and comfort to terminally ill children, adults, and their families by easing financial burdens and fulfilling last wishes.

Show Notes:

Being Mortal Frontline Special - https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/documentary/being-mortal/

Counseling/Having difficult conversations -

The Conversation Project (free info/guides!) https://theconversationproject.org/

Center to Advance Palliative Care - SLP pathway: Some of their information is behind a paywall, requiring organizational membership; however, they also offer free resources on their site, and their introductory course is available to all at no cost. https://www.capc.org/training/learning-pathways/?topic=&practice_area=&discipline=Speech%20Language%20Pathologist

Zarit-Burden Interview (for caregivers): https://wai.wisc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/1129/2021/11/Zarit-Caregiver-Burden-Assessment-Instruments.pdf

ASHA's practice portal: https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/resources/palliative-and-end-of-life-care/?srsltid=AfmBOoo7GiP-RtmN3bTIdDaBAhqzdCCFxXoy32Mi2znu06fY9jODH0Jo

Books:

Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

The Art of Dying Well by Katy Butler

On Death and Dying by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

End-of-life considerations by Helen Sharp and Amanda Stead