In this episode, Michelle sits down with Denise Cesare, a speech-language pathologist, author, and mindfulness advocate, to discuss her incredible journey of resilience and healing. After losing her voice due to a tragic accident, Denise shares how mindfulness became a cornerstone of her recovery and professional life.

The conversation delves into the mental health challenges faced by professionals, the impact of the pandemic on children, and the creation of Denise's book, Moments in Motion with Love. This heartfelt book provides tools to help children and adults navigate stress and embrace mindfulness.

Denise also highlights the emotional process of writing, the healing power of music, and the integration of yoga and mindfulness into daily routines. The episode wraps up with practical advice for new speech pathologists on avoiding burnout and prioritizing self-care.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Denise Cesare
03:12 The Importance of Mindfulness in Speech Pathology
06:02 Understanding Mindfulness and Its Impact
09:03 The Journey of Losing and Regaining Voice
11:54 Advocacy and Empathy in Speech Pathology
15:01 The Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health
17:52 The Birth of Moments in Motion with Love
24:35 The Emotional Journey of Writing
27:41 Mindfulness and the Importance of Presence
30:37 Self-Love and Kindness in Healing
32:03 The Impact of Music on Healing
37:11 Yoga Motions with Love: Movement and Mindfulness
44:52 Advice for New Speech Pathologists

About Denise Cesare

Denise Cesare is a published author, keynote speaker, and social-emotional learning specialist dedicated to supporting schools, organizations, and communities. With over 25 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist and Special Education/Social Emotional Specialist, Denise combines her expertise with personal experiences to inspire and educate.

After losing her voice in 2006 due to Spasmodic Dysphonia caused by a car accident, Denise embarked on a journey of healing and self-discovery. Her book, Moments in Motion with Love, was born during the pandemic to help children and adults cope with stress and find mindfulness in challenging times.

Denise is the creator of educational programs inspired by her book, including:

• Mindful Moments with Love©️
• Yoga Motion with Love©️
• Healing Music Workshop©️

She is also a contributing author in the Magnificently Made Anthology (November 2023), where she shares how music became a source of healing during pivotal moments in her life.

Denise’s work has been featured in outlets such as iHeart Radio, PIX 11, Bella Magazine, and Women Thrive, among others. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, she now resides in Staten Island with her husband, Dan, and their son, Daniel.

Website:www.denisecesare.com
Instagram:@denise.cesare | @fitseverybody
LinkedIn:Denise Cesare

Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast
 

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In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, Michelle interviews Josh Eliand and Chirag Kulkarni, the co-founders of Sira, an AI-powered platform built to help speech-language pathologists (SLPs) streamline documentation and enhance patient care.

Josh and Chirag share their unique backgrounds and personal motivations behind creating Sira, while shedding light on the real pain points faced by SLPs in clinical practice. They discuss the pros and cons of utilizing AI in healthcare, the critical importance of HIPAA compliance, and the challenges and limitations of this technology. The episode also outlines the development of the Sira platform, its features, and the user experience. Finally, they explore the potential for AI to extend its impact beyond speech therapy, offering advice and insights for SLPs considering AI-driven solutions.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to AI in Speech Therapy
01:58 - Founders' Backgrounds and Personal Connections
07:03 - Identifying Pain Points in Speech Therapy
11:00 - Building the AI Platform: Initial Steps
14:03 - Pros and Cons of AI in Healthcare
17:57 - Challenges and Limitations of AI Technology
22:01 - HIPAA Compliance in AI Solutions
26:06 - Overview of the Sira Platform
29:51 - Getting Started with Sira and User Experience
34:05 - Expanding Use Cases Beyond Speech Therapy
37:57 - Final Thoughts and Advice for SLPs

About Chirag and Josh:
Chirag is a co-founder of Syra, an innovative AI platform focused on automating manual tasks within healthcare settings. 

Leveraging his experience from McKinsey & Company as well as a number of high-growth health-tech startups, Chirag specializes in applying artificial intelligence to streamline healthcare operations and improve patient care. 
He is passionate about harnessing AI and technology to address real-world challenges in healthcare, particularly in areas such as speech therapy and clinical workflows.

Josh is the co-founder of Syra, an AI-driven automation platform designed for non-technical users. With a background in strategy and operations across private sector industries (Bain & Company) and NGOs (nonprofit Run Your City), Josh is passionate about leveraging technology to simplify complex workflows and relieve administrative burdens.

Get Syra today! 

Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast
 

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In this heartfelt episode, Michelle dives into the inspiring journey behind her decision to become a speech-language pathologist. Guided by her Christian faith and a deep desire to serve others, she shares touching personal stories that reveal the joy of transforming lives through communication. From building lasting connections with families to witnessing the power of human connection in therapy, Michelle explains how her career didn’t just happen—it chose her. This episode is a celebration of purpose, faith, and the incredible fulfillment that comes from helping others thrive.

Chapters

• 00:00 Discovering My Why as a Speech-Language Pathologist
• 06:40 The Power of Serving Others
• 12:54 Building Lasting Connections with Families
• 18:38 The Joy of Human Connection in Therapy

Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast
 

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Episode Sponsor:

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Join Michelle as she chats with her daughter Mia, a middle school math teacher, about how math and language connect. They explore how strong vocabulary supports math learning, the shift from numerical to language-based problem-solving, and the challenges faced by students with language delays or IEPs.

The episode highlights the value of collaboration between speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and math teachers, tips for supporting English learners, and the power of visual strategies to make math more accessible.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Math and Language

03:09 The Role of Vocabulary in Math Education

06:04 Transitioning from Numbers to Language in Math

09:01 Understanding Math Standards and Language Challenges

11:52 The Impact of Language on Math Learning

15:07 Supporting Students with IEPs in Math

17:54 Inclusion of English Learners in Math Education

21:14 Collaboration Between SLPs and Math Teachers

24:04 Advice for SLPs Working with Math Students

26:58 Visual Learning Strategies in Math

27:57 Conclusion and Future Discussions

About Mia 
Mia graduated from the University of Mississippi in 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education, specializing in secondary mathematics. During her time at Ole Miss, she was actively involved in organizations like Kappa Delta Alpha Mu, Teachers of Tomorrow, the National Education Association, the Mississippi Association of Education, and the National Honor Society for Leadership and Success. She also served as an Education Ambassador and co-presented at the Mississippi Council for Teachers of Mathematics Conference.

Currently, Mia is an 8th-grade math teacher at Oxford Middle School, where she serves as the PLC Leader for the math department, mentors a first-year teacher, and acts as a Clinical Instructor for a senior teaching fellow from the University of Mississippi. Recognized for her excellence, she was named Oxford Middle School Employee of the Year for 2023-2024 and received the Elevating Excellence Pin in August 2024.

Beyond the classroom, Mia is the assistant coach for the middle school cheerleading team and sponsor of the OMS Diamond Dolls for the baseball team. She enjoys traveling, listening to true crime podcasts, and spending time with family and friends.

Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast
 

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Episode Sponsor:

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

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Join  Michelle in this engaging episode of SLP Full Disclosure as she welcomes the Michelle Garcia Winner, a renowned speech language pathologist and the creator of the Social Thinking methodology. Together, they take a deep dive into the vital role of social competencies in effective communication and explore how Social Thinking goes beyond traditional social skills training to address emotional awareness and social observation.

Michelle Garcia Winner shares the story behind developing this groundbreaking approach and explains how it helps individuals, especially those on the autism spectrum, build meaningful social behaviors and emotional connections. The episode also examines the impact of social anxiety, the challenges introduced by COVID-19, and how speech language pathologists can apply Social Thinking strategies in practical, everyday scenarios.

With warmth and expertise, this conversation offers valuable insights and actionable advice for SLPs, educators, and anyone passionate about fostering connection through communication.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Social Thinking and its significance
• 03:11 Michelle Garcia-Winner’s inspiring professional journey
• 06:07 Exploring the connection between social observation and anxiety
• 09:00 Unpacking the role of Social Thinking in communication
• 11:50 Understanding social anxiety and how it affects communication
• 15:11 The distinction between Social Thinking and social skills training
• 18:03 How emotions influence social communication
• 20:48 Building social competencies through the Social Thinking approach
• 24:04 COVID-19's effects on social skill development
• 26:57 Practical applications for SLPs working with diverse populations
• 30:11 Advice for professionals and next steps in Social Thinking
• 33:06 Closing thoughts and resources for further exploration

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion packed with insights, advice, and inspiration to enhance how we approach communication. Whether you're a speech language pathologist, an educator, or a parent, this episode will equip you with tools and knowledge to better understand and support social-emotional learning.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Explore more about Michelle Garcia Winner’s Social Thinking methodology and access helpful resources at SocialThinking.com and connect on social:

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About Michelle Garcia Winner

Michelle Garcia Winner, MA, CCC-SLP, is the founder and CEO of Think Social Publishing, Inc, (a.k.a. Social Thinking).  She is a globally recognized thought leader, author, speaker, and social-cognitive therapist who is dedicated to fostering awareness and development of our social-emotional and organizational selves, whether neurodivergent and neurotypical. Across her 30+ year career she has created numerous evidence-based strategies, treatment frameworks, and curricula to help family members as well as teachers, counselors, therapists and other types of interventionists, foster the development of social and organizational competencies and problem solving in those they support.

Her methodology is most effective with children and adults who have a solid command of expressive and receptive language. Michelle and her team continually update the Social Thinking® Methodology based on the latest research and clinical insights.

Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast
 

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Episode Sponsor:

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

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Michelle sits down with Mary White, an advocate for individuals with disabilities, to share her inspiring story. Diagnosed with hydrocephalus as a child, Mary reflects on how speech therapy shaped her voice and confidence. She discusses her educational path through the Access Program at Mississippi State University, which provided her with opportunities to grow academically and socially. Mary highlights the importance of support systems, her impactful work at the Children's Hospital of Alabama, and her dedication to creating more inclusive spaces through public speaking and advocacy initiatives.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Meet Mary
• 04:00 Overcoming Early Challenges
• 10:30 Access Program Journey
• 16:40 Career and Advocacy
• 24:00 Encouragement and Resources

About Mary:
Mary White is an advocate for people with disabilities and enjoys sharing her story. She has a series of YouTube videos called, “The Awesome Mary Show” that focus on living with a disability. Her videos are informative, inspirational and humorous. She graduated from Mississippi State University’s ACCESS Program in 2023. Mary has been recognized as a leader in advocacy including; the Self-Advocate of Distinction Award in 2024 from ARC of Alabama, the Jeff Ridgeway Advocacy Award, the Vulcan Community Award and was named one of Alabama Public Television's Young Heroes. Mary lives in Birmingham and works at Children’s of Alabama. 

Check out The Awesome Mary Show

Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast
 

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Episode Sponsor:

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In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, host Michelle sits down with Jana White, a parent who offers a heartfelt and unique perspective on raising a child with hydrocephalus. Together, they discuss the journey of early intervention, the importance of inclusive education, and the inspiring advocacy work of Jana’s daughter, Mary.

Jana highlights the power of setting high expectations, the invaluable support from other parents, and the life-changing role of speech therapy in their family’s journey. This touching conversation provides meaningful insights for both parents and speech pathologists, emphasizing resilience, community, and advocacy in overcoming challenges.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to a Unique Perspective
04:35 Mary's Early Journey and Challenges
10:47 Navigating Early Intervention
18:15 Transitioning to Preschool and Inclusive Settings
25:28 High School Challenges and Advocacy
31:33 Advice for Parents and Speech 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! 

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In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, Michelle is joined by Janet Scull to unpack the pivotal role of the AMN Healthcare Clinical Fellow Mentor Program. Together, they shed light on the unique challenges that new graduates face in their first year as speech-language pathologists and how a strong mentoring relationship can make all the difference. Janet draws from her wealth of experience to offer powerful insights and practical advice, underscoring the importance of staying open to feedback and committing to lifelong learning. The conversation also dives into how speech-language pathology education is evolving, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about shaping their career in the field.

Become a CF Mentor with AMN Healthcare! Apply Today! 
Looking to start your CF program? Here's our CF Program FAQ
Read AMN's CF guide on starting your Clinical Fellowship Program 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the CF Mentor Program

05:40 The Role of a Clinical Fellow Mentor

12:40 Navigating the First Year as a CFY

18:21 Advice for New Graduates

About Janet
Janet Scull is a seasoned speech therapist with over 30 years of experience, including her long-standing role at Schuylkill Valley School District in Leesport, PA, and work across diverse healthcare settings. Since October 2023, she has served as a mentor for Clinical Fellowship Year students with AMN Healthcare, sharing her expertise to support the next generation of speech-language pathologists.

Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast
 

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Episode Sponsor:

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Michelle is joined by pediatric occupational therapist Erika Trump to unpack the complexities of sensory integration and processing. Together, they break down what sensory integration means, explore the differences between sensory processing and dysregulation, and examine their impact on children’s behavior. Erika offers valuable insights on distinguishing between sensory-driven behaviors and simple choices, discusses the importance of understanding typical child development, and shares practical strategies to support children with sensory differences. The episode also highlights the importance of collaboration between occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists in addressing sensory needs and fostering effective communication.

Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sensory Integration and Occupational Therapy
01:26 Understanding Sensory Integration and Processing
05:52 Differentiating Behaviors: Choice vs. Sensory Processing
11:27 Exploring Dysregulation and Its Impact
16:34 Advice for Speech Language Pathologists
21:25 Practical Techniques for Sensory Integration

Learn more about the show: SLP Full Disclosure Podcast
 

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Episode Sponsor:

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

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In this episode of SLP Full Disclosure, Michelle sets the tone for 2025 by discussing various topics and guests that will be featured throughout the year. Get ready for a record year covering the topics of all things speech language pathology, including dysregulation, social skills training, and bilingual therapy, professional development, teletherapy, travel therapy, and more!

Learn more about the show: https://www.amnhealthcare.com/podcast/slp-full-disclosure/

Chapters

00:00 Setting the Stage for 2025

02:46 Highlighting Inspiring Stories and Programs

05:37 Exploring Key Topics in Speech Language Pathology

08:51 Engagement and Community Involvement

About Michelle

Michelle Gage, MA CCC-SLP, embarked on her journey in speech-language pathology during her undergraduate studies at the University of Mississippi, where she also worked at North Mississippi Regional Center, gaining invaluable experience in various therapy approaches. Following her Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Central Florida, she has dedicated 25 years to empowering children and families in improving language skills and overall development. Currently residing in Mississippi, Michelle extends her expertise through telehealth services. Additionally, she proudly serves as the host of the SLP Full Disclosure podcast.

Outside of her professional commitments, Michelle is the proud mother of Mia, an accomplished middle school math teacher and all-around amazing human. In her leisure time, she indulges in her love for travel and cherishes moments spent with family and friends.

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. 

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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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