First Bite: Fed, Fun, Functional SLP Insights

Guest: Colleen Ashford MS, CCC-SLP

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

In this episode, Erin and Colleen discuss the depth of advocacy surrounding IEPs, EI, and the impact of recent policy changes. This vulnerable discussion touches on what it means to advocate for our families in the school setting and beyond. Colleen discusses the effects of variety in policy and laws state by state, and the importance of seeking resources and support to help you support your families. They also discuss how SLPs can tailor their services in private practice and resources to support you in this process. If you are ready to explore and expand your value and advocacy as an SLP, this episode is for you.

Here is the link of an organization Colleen would recommend donating to: 

https://www.ilrc.org/donate-now

They are the same one that created these Family Preparedness Plan Packets that can be given to families:

https://www.ilrc.org/resources/step-step-family-preparedness-plan

Colleen's Courses (Colleen is an affiliate)

The Collaborative IEP with Ashley Barlow (two complimentary courses):

https://thecollaborativeiep.spiffy.co/a/0KLCN2r0pE/4345

https://thecollaborativeiep.spiffy.co/a/lkgsG1az5P/4345

YourSLPDaj's SIDE BIZ SLP Course (Colleen is an affiliate) -

https://ashford--cotreatcorner.thrivecart.com/sidebizslp/

If people want to hear The Unfiltered IEPs Podcast they can subscribe here to find out when new episodes are released!

https://theadvocateslp.myflodesk.com/dqt0sp358u

Watch First Bite on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7MAivUFBhc4?si=F6rhc3118SrSsOwN

Expert Panel: Amy Hobek, PhD, CCC-SLP, Fé González Murray, EdD, CCC-SLP, Vishnu KK Nair, Archie Soelaeman, Betty Yu and Reem Khamis

Take ACTION HERE: Changes to 2020 certification standards feedback. Survey. (n.d.). https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2020_Cert_Changes

This episode will be available for 0.1 ASHA CEU on July 4, enroll here: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/ashas-proposed-changes

Correction Note from Dr. Betty: “During the recording I referred to the executive order targeting associations with assets of $500 million or more. I thought ASHA met that criteria but actually ASHA’s net assets are around $174 million.”

In this episode, Michelle and Erin host an all start line up of colleagues from across the globe to discuss ASHA’s Proposed Changes to the “2020 Certification Standards” and the long-term ramifications that these changes could have for our profession. This conversation is timely in that there are only a matter of days, roughly 3 weeks or less, for audiologists and speech-language pathologists (including students) to write in and advocate to ASHA on whether the proposed changes to the 2020 Certification Standards should be accepted… changes that remove key words and language that were hard fought to obtain. Be informed that this conversation does address political rationale behind the changes and offer a plethora of resources for individuals to grow their knowledge regarding the long-term ramifications of these proposed changes… but it ends with resources on how to make your voice heard! So, come join the ladies of “First Bite” and ADVOCATE!

About the Panel:

Amy Hobek, PhD, CCC-SLP is an Associate Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Cincinnati. Her teaching and scholarship focus on equity and inclusion, with an emphasis on valuing and legitimizing cultural and linguistic variations in these areas within individuals, families, and communities. She is also a licensed speech language pathologist providing clinic supervision of graduate students in a culturally and linguistically diverse preschool setting on UC’s campus. She is a co-chair of the Cultural Humility Task Force of the National Black Association of Speech Language and Hearing. She is a topic co-chair of Equity, Inclusion, and Cultural-Linguistic Diversity for the ASHA 2025 Convention.

Professor Reem Khamis (also known as Reem Khamis-Dakwar) is Professor Emerita at Adelphi University and Chair of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Long Island University (LIU) Brooklyn. Her expertise centers on language development, processing, and clinical services within the sociolinguistic context of diglossia and diverse populations. Dr. Khamis is co-founder of the Journal of the Critical Study of Communication and Disability (JCSCD) and a co-founding member of the Speech, Language, and Hearing Scientists Equity Action Collective. She currently serves as Language Section Editor for the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research (JSLHR). She received the Excellence in Diversity Award in 2020 from the Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CAPCSD).

Fé González Murray, EdD, CCC-SLP is an Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Northern Arizona University. Prior to joining the NAU faculty, she worked for 25 years as an English/Spanish bilingual speech-language pathologist in various settings, most notably in public schools serving Indigenous American, migrant, and immigrant populations. In addition to teaching and supervising clinical rotations, she facilitates workshops nationally and internationally on topics related to responsive practice with culturally and linguistically diverse individuals and their families, including multilingualism and collaboration with interpreters.

Vishnu KK Nair is a lecturer in the School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences at University of Reading, UK. He currently co-leads the health theme of the Centre for Literacy and Multilingualism, University of Reading. His current research utilizes critical, decolonial and more than human approaches to understanding communication and disability. He is committed towards building a body of interdisciplinary and anti-colonial scholarship that de-pathologizes communication disability and focuses on understanding and affirming communication variability. His teaching and research have won multiple teaching excellence, research supervision and best student dissertation awards.

Archie Soelaeman (she/her) is the Manager of School Speech Language Services and a speech-language pathologist at Helping Hand School in Countryside, Illinois, a therapeutic day school. She provides services to students with a primary diagnosis of autism and collaborates with a multidisciplinary team on a daily basis. She has over 16 years of experience in this setting. Her clinical interests include autism spectrum, augmentative and alternative communication, and apraxia. Archie is also a co-president of the Asian Pacific Islander Speech-Language-Hearing Caucus, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose primary mission is to make connections among API groups, share common concerns in education, and advocate for quality speech and hearing service delivery for individuals across diverse API communities. Archie is a native speaker of Bahasa Indonesia who also has conversational proficiency in Spanish.

Betty Yu is a Professor in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences and a Co-Managing Editor of the Journal of Critical Study of Communication and Disability. Her research and clinical interests are in how communication access among racially-minoritized, disabled children in multilingual communities are shaped by institutional practices/policies, family socialization, and dominant ideologies about race/language/disability. She also focuses on issues of equity in the field of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences (SLHS), particularly as related to the systemic influences of raciolinguistic discrimination, ableism and pathologization.

Show Notes:

Asian Pacific Islander speech-language-hearing caucus. Asian Pacific Islander Speech-Language-Hearing Caucus. (2022, December 14). https://apislhc.org/

Beaver, D. (2024). The politics of language. Princeton University Press.

El Akkad, O. (2025). One day, everyone will have always been against this. Alfred A. Knopf.

Karen Yourish, A. D. (2025, March 8). These words are disappearing in the new Trump administration. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/03/07/us/trump-federal-agencies-websites-words-dei.html

Ostrager, A.-E., Jordan, J., & High, T. R. (2025, February 10). President Trump acts to roll back dei initiatives. The Harvard Law School Forum on Corporate Governance. https://corpgov.law.harvard.edu/2025/02/10/president-trump-acts-to-roll-back-dei-initiatives/

Guest: Kelsey Thompson, PhD, CCC-SLP

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

Hosted by: Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S

Welcome to an insightful conversation between Michelle Dawson and Dr. Kelsey Thompson, a renowned pediatric feeding therapist and researcher. In this episode, they delve into critical issues in pediatric feeding therapy, discuss essential strategies for supporting infants with Down syndrome and preterm infants, and explore the importance of early intervention and advocacy in speech-language pathology.

📌 Episode Highlights:

- The impact of recent CMS updates on provisional licensure for speech-language pathologists.

- Exploring the unique needs and milestones in pediatric feeding therapy for infants with Down syndrome.

- The vital role of early intervention and parent-infant relationships in feeding development.

- Current gaps in research and the need for continued advocacy and support within pediatric feeding disorders.

⏰ Timeline:

00:00 – Introduction and recent CMS updates impacting speech-language pathologists

03:00 – Importance of advocacy in speech pathology

04:00 – Introduction to Dr. Kelsey Thompson

08:00 – Dr. Thompson’s path into pediatric speech therapy

11:00 – UNC’s Feeding Flock program overview

15:00 – Special interest in working with Down syndrome populations

19:00 – Developmental milestones and transitions in early feeding therapy

25:00 – Defining "complementary foods" and its role in pediatric feeding

30:00 – Findings from recent scoping review on Down syndrome and feeding

35:00 – Key transitions and interventions in early childhood feeding

40:00 – Clinical considerations and family support strategies

45:00 – Addressing realistic goals and collaboration among caregivers

50:00 – Importance of flexibility and adjusting therapy goals

55:00 – Critical resources for supporting infants with Down syndrome

01:00:00 – Addressing gaps in pediatrician training on feeding disorders

01:05:00 – Essential organizations and resources for caregivers and clinicians

01:10:00 – Wrapping up: Resources, future research directions, and contact information

🔗 Useful Resources Mentioned:

Feeding Matters: www.feedingmatters.org

National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders: swallowingdisorderfoundation.com

National Down Syndrome Society: www.ndss.org

📧 Contact Dr. Kelsey Thompson:

Email: [email protected]

About the Guest: Kelsey Thompson, PhD, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, research scientist, and mom of two little ones. Her research and clinical work center around supporting families through the introduction to solid foods, with the goal of preventing long-term pediatric feeding disorders and helping caregivers feel confident about feeding. Her research focuses on infants with Down syndrome and preterm infants and their families.

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDdUnq3dwos

***Trauma-Informed Moment: This episode could trigger NICU warriors and survivors emotionally. As always, we choose joy and healing; however, we wanted to inform you in advance.***

Full conversation with Casey Lewis, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CNT, CLC, NTMTC for "Sacred Space: Supporting Caregivers and SLPs in the NICU," an episode of the First Bite podcast.

Hosted by: Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S

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

In this episode, Michelle is joined by Casey Lewis, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CNT, CLC, NTMTC, a fiercely compassionate advocate for both caregivers in the NICU and NICU SLPs, as her life journey has had her walk in both footsteps. During this hour, Casey shares raw memories of both life experiences to help grow our colleagues' understanding of barriers that caregivers and clinicians encounter in this setting, all to see our smallest patients thrive. If you have ever wanted to work in the NICU or learn how to support a colleague or family member better while they brave their personal NICU journey, this is the hour for you.

About the Guest: Casey Lewis, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CNT, CLC, NTMTC, is a Speech-Language Pathologist based in Dallas, Texas. She owns and operates TexScope, a mobile endoscopy company serving numerous Texas healthcare organizations. Casey's specialties include dysphagia across the lifespan as well as neonatal care. Casey is currently serving as an expert witness in a legal case, representing expertise in neonatal dysphagia. Most recently, Casey became a NICU Mom herself in 2023 after experiencing a placental abruption. Casey's experience of transitioning from clinician to caregiver in a space where she has built her career has strengthened her heart for advocacy, specifically in the fragile environment of the NICU.

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vqs46JCmFPg

Guests: Lindsay Meyer Turner, PhD, CCC-SLP, CNT, IBCLC, RLC, NTMTC, Leena Sayed, MS, Inéz Esparza, MS, L-SLP, CCC-SLP, Megan Richmond, DHA, MS CCC-SLP, and Meredith McLain, MCD CCC-SLP

Hosted by: Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S

This episode is worth 0.1 ASHA CEU and meets ASHA DEI certification requirement, enroll here: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/pfd-and-deia

In this episode, Michelle is joined by an all-star line-up of PFD advocates from across the nation: Lindsay Meyer Turner, PhD, CCC-SLP, CNT, IBCLC, RLC, NTMTC, Leena Sayed, MS, Inéz Esparza, MS, L-SLP, CCC-SLP, Megan Richmond, DHA, MS CCC-SLP, and Meredith McLain, MCD CCC-SLP to address DEIA within the framework of pediatric feeding disorder! United together, these women create a safe space to hold a crucial and intimate conversation about the unique challenges that our colleagues, patients, and caregivers are encountering on a daily basis. Yes, there are tears, yes there is laughter, and yes there are numerous evidence-based resources to support listeners in their walk as they stand up for improved access to care, fight racism, sexism, and ableism, and most importantly serve one another with humility, compassion, and an abundance of grace all in time to close out Pediatric Feeding Disorder and ARFID Awareness Month with unparalleled joy!

Michelle and Erin get together to talk about their free PFD in Schools seminar that took place on last Sunday (5/18). They also preview the new season starting next week on May 27, and the process of creating a new cover for the first time in 7 years!

Stay tuned next week for an all new episode titled "PFD and DEIA: Why It Matters to Us and Those We Serve" featuring a panel of 6 PFD experts from around the US.

Free PFD in Schools Seminar (.6 ASHA CEU): www.speechtherapypd.com/pfd

This conversation originally aired September 26, 2018 - an all-new season of First Bite will return on May 27, 2025.

Earn .1 ASHA CEU for this episode: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Banishing-Basic-Feeding-Myths-in-the-World-of-Pediatrics-48

Hosts: Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S and Erin Forward MSP, CCC-SLP, CLC

In this episode, Michelle and Erin bust some of our preconceived myths regarding treatment of feeding disorders in the pediatric world. Defining the etiology of dysphagia, the confusion of utilization of EBP strategies with adults, and how EBP can often become misplaced when treating pediatrics is discussed, as well as some of our favorite resources to develop our EBP for pediatrics.

Free PFD in Schools Seminar (.6 ASHA CEU): www.speechtherapypd.com/pfd

This interview with Dr. Kay Toomey originally aired January 19, 2019, an all new season of First Bite will return on May 27, 2025.

Earn .1 ASHA CEU for this episode: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Never-Fear-Dr-Kay-Toomey-and-SOS-Feeding-are-Here-243

In this engaging episode of the 'First Bite' podcast, host Michelle Dawson is joined by Dr. Kay Toomey, a leading psychologist and founder of the SOS Approach to Feeding, dives deep into the nuances of pediatric feeding therapy. Dr. Toomey explores the roots and principles of the SOS Approach, highlighting the importance of a bottom-up methodology, play, and systematic desensitization in aiding children with feeding disorders. The conversation also touches on the difference between picky eaters and problem feeders, the interdisciplinary nature of effective feeding therapy, and the challenges faced by families with medically fragile children. Dr. Toomey provides insights on how to balance different therapeutic approaches and the significance of postural stability in feeding. Throughout, the discussion emphasizes compassion, patience, and the need for a holistic, family-inclusive approach to pediatric feeding therapy.

00:00 Morning Chaos and Exciting Announcements

00:21 Celebrating Milestones and Upcoming Event

02:34 Introduction to Today's Episode

03:19 Re-releasing a Special Episode

04:02 Welcome to First Bite Podcast

04:28 Diving into the SOS Approach to Feeding

06:04 The Journey of Dr. K Tomi

13:32 Understanding Picky Eaters vs. Problem Feeders

41:38 Importance of Proper Postural Stability for Children

43:18 Teaching Children to Eat Through Play

44:25 SOS Approach to Feeding Program

45:55 Classical vs. Operant Conditioning in Feeding

46:45 Addressing Feeding Difficulties in Children

47:50 Bottom-Up Approach to Teaching Eating Skills

49:41 Systematic Desensitization vs. Top-Down Approach

51:14 Managing Vomiting During Feeding Sessions

53:31 Creating a Positive Feeding Environment

56:49 Becoming an SOS Certified Provider

01:02:27 Navigating Different Feeding Philosophies

01:12:01 Supporting Medically Fragile Children in Feeding

01:17:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Guest: Patrick "Pat" Reeves MD, FAAP, DABOM, MAJ, MC, USA

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=BowelsBellyBrain-Interaction

In this insightful podcast episode, join host Michelle as she engages in a detailed conversation with Dr. Patrick Reeves, a pediatric gastroenterologist working with the military. They discuss a range of significant topics including the management and transition of feeding tubes, the challenges of cyclic vomiting syndrome, and functional constipation in children. Dr. Reeves also elaborates on his development of clinical action plans to improve coordination of care for patients with complex nutritional needs. Gain valuable insights into pediatric gastroenterology, practical tips for advocating for appropriate care, and the importance of teamwork among healthcare providers.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:15 Dr. Reeves' Professional Journey

03:52 Developing Clinical Tools During the Pandemic

05:54 The Role of Dr. Reeves' Wife in Tool Development

07:44 Clinical Action Plans Overview

09:46 Understanding Constipation in Pediatric Patients

25:03 Challenges with Nissen Fundoplication

31:11 Feeding Tubes: A Necessary Tool

35:16 Introduction to Claire Riley's Research

35:38 Complications of NG and J Tubes

37:18 The Aggressive Bridle Device

40:01 Case Study: Managing G-Tube Transitions

53:23 Understanding Functional GI Disorders

56:00 Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome Explained

01:02:07 Advocating for Pediatric GI Care

01:09:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About the Guest: Patrick “Pat” Reeves, MD, FAAP, DABOM, MAJ, MC, USA, is a triple-board-certified physician in the areas of General Pediatrician, Obesity Medicine Specialist, and Pediatric Gastroenterologist Hepatologist, with advanced research skills focusing on enhancing patient education and clinical outcomes. He serves as an associate professor of pediatrics and associate professor of military medicine through the Uniformed Services University, University of Texas, and Texas A&M. His specific research focuses are first describing the negative impacts of consumer product injuries- like button batteries, high powered magnets [Buckyballs] and water beads [Orbeez]- on child health, and secondly, the development of point-of-care tools to be used at home by families managing children with medical complexity. He has nearly 40 peer-reviewed, published articles.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/g5iqlS5GEGk

Guest: Joleen Fernald, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=DIR-and-Selective-Mutism

In this episode, host Erin welcomes Jolene Fernald, an expert in selective mutism and DIR floor time, to discuss the complexities of selective mutism, neurodiversity, and how to support children who struggle with communication in anxiety-provoking situations. Jolene shares personal experiences, diagnostic criteria, and effective strategies based on a holistic DIR approach. Viewers will learn about the role of sensory processing, how to build a supportive classroom environment, and the importance of understanding the 'why' behind behaviors. This episode also covers the overlap between selective mutism and autism, providing insights into the situational challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. Jolene introduces useful resources, including a new card deck to guide therapists and educators. This enriching conversation aims to equip you with knowledge and tools to better support children with selective mutism.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Episode

00:30 Upcoming Events and Conferences

01:09 Guest Introduction: Jolene Fernald

03:29 Jolene's Journey and Expertise in Selective Mutism

09:49 Understanding Selective Mutism and DIR Approach

13:29 Diagnosing and Addressing Selective Mutism

20:55 Building Communication Capacities in Children

28:15 The Role of Sensory Activities and AAC

31:24 Understanding Communication Challenges in Children

32:28 Addressing Classroom Anxiety and AAC Systems

35:12 Supporting Teachers and Creating Safe Environments

38:23 Effective Classroom Strategies for Anxious Students

47:09 Selective Mutism and Autism: Overlapping Conditions

57:32 Resources and Tools for Supporting Children with SM

01:01:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About the Guest: Joleen R. Fernald, PhD, CCC-SLP was awarded Board Specialty Recognition in Child Language from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. Dr. Fernald follows Greenspan and Wieder’s model, DIRFloortime® , when working with children and families.She has a special interest in the social-emotional development of young children and its impact on their speech and language skills. As a speech-language pathologist, Dr. Fernald works with children who have a variety of communication disorders. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of Selective Mutism and is the developer of the DIR-SM model.