Swallow Your Pride Podcast

On this episode of Swallow Your Pride Podcast, Theresa sits down with Dr. Sonal Pathak to talk about something that's been simmering in the field for a long time: the perception gap between acute care and post-acute SLPs. Dr. Pathak brings 16+ years of clinical experience across both settings and makes the case that SNF clinicians aren't "step-down" anything. They're managing medically complex patients with fewer resources, less backup, and often zero SLP colleagues in the building. The two dig into discharge planning gaps, the fight for a seat at the interdisciplinary table, how to advocate for your caseload when your DOR is a PT, and why continuity of care across settings should be the standard, not the exception. Dr. Pathak also shares her doctoral research on spontaneous swallowing frequency and how it could change bedside outcome measurement for SLPs everywhere. Visit the show page: https://syppodcast.com/399 The post Fewer Resources, Higher Stakes: What It Actually Takes to Be a Post-Acute SLP | Ep 399 appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2026

On this episode of The Swallow Your Pride Podcast, I sit down with Laura Morgan was halfway through her clinical fellowship in speech-language pathology when a motor vehicle accident left her with a moderate-severe traumatic brain injury, a fractured jaw, and broken C1 and C2 vertebrae. She spent 72 days inpatient, had to retake the Praxis, redo her CF, and fight her way back into the field she'd just entered. Laura shares what she learned about brain injury rehabilitation from the patient's perspective: why your office decorations matter more than you think, how cognitive progress and grief can show up at the same time, what errorless learning looks like in everyday life, and why recognizing a patient's lost coping mechanisms should come before any clinical label. Laura now works at Metro Therapy Center in Gaithersburg, MD and has given over 50 multimedia presentations on her experience as both a provider and a recipient of speech pathology services.  Learn more at www.soundmindinsights.com and follow her on Instagram @slp_tbi and @soundmindinsights. See the show page at: https://syppodcast.com/398 The post 398 – From Glasgow Coma Score of 2 to Certified Brain Injury Specialist: An SLPs Journey from Patient to Clinician appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2026

On this episode of Swallow Your Pride, we are talking about what SLPD is the SLPD, and who is it actually for? Theresa sits down with four speech-language pathologists who pursued the clinical doctorate while working full time, raising families, and staying deeply rooted in patient care. Dr. Erin McCarthy (D'Youville University / Northwestern), Dr. Irene Brettman (Mass General / MGH Institute), Dr. D'Anna Nowack (Baylor University / Nova Southeastern), and Dr. Courtney V. Moore (Rocky Mountain University) share why they chose the SLPD over the PhD or EdD, what the programs actually cover (hint: way more than you'd expect), and how the degree changed their career trajectories in ways they didn't see coming. They also break down the recent elimination of the CAA's 51% faculty rule and what that means for clinician-educators across the country. Whether you're considering an advanced degree or just curious about what the SLPD brings to the table, this one's worth your time. Visit the show page: https://syppodcast.com/397 The post 397 – SLP to SLPD: What the Clinical Doctorate Actually Looks Like from the Inside appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2026

On this episode, we're joined by a head and neck surgeon and a speech-language pathologist from the University of South Florida and Tampa General Hospital who have built a self-dilation program that is changing lives for head and neck cancer patients with recurrent esophageal strictures. Their program currently has 20 patients self-dilating, and the outcomes are remarkable: 80% of patients who came in with feeding tubes have had them removed. We talk about how their multidisciplinary clinic model works (surgeon and SLP evaluating patients together, in the same room), how they identify good candidates for self-dilation, what the training process looks like, the role of the infinity balloon in initial dilation, how they navigated the cost barrier of a $3,400 dilator, and patient stories that show what's possible when you keep the esophagus open long enough for therapy to actually work. If you work with head and neck cancer patients dealing with recurrent strictures, this episode is a must-listen. Get the show notes: https://syppodcast.com/396 The post 396 – From NPO to Full Diet: Why Patients Are Dilating Their Own Esophagus appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 4 May 2026

On this episode of the Swallow Your Pride podcast, Theresa sits down with Kelly Kalseth, founder and CEO of Momma Gourmet, a company that is changing what pureed meals look and taste like for people with swallowing disorders. Kelly's journey started in 2015 when her son Caleb was born premature at 30 weeks and was later diagnosed with Tracheal Malacia. After navigating thickened liquids, swallow studies, and surgeries as a first-time mom, Kelly saw a massive gap in the food options available to people on modified diets. When she toured a Meals on Wheels kitchen and saw the shelf-stable brown purees being served to clients, she knew she could do better. Today, Momma Gourmet provides chef-crafted, flash-frozen pureed meals made with real ingredients like red beets, cauliflower, lentils, quinoa, and Greek yogurt. Every meal packs at least 28 grams of protein and ships nationwide on dry ice. Kelly talks about the emotional experience of eating, why food presentation matters even on a pureed diet, how she's expanded into halal meal options, and her goal of getting nutritious purees into senior living centers and hospice programs. She also shares a client testimonial from a caregiver whose 99-year-old mother eats every single bite. If you work with patients on modified diets (or love someone who's on one), this episode is going to make you rethink what's possible. Episode Page: https://syppodcast.com/395 🔗 Learn more or set up delivery at https://MommaGourmet.com The post 395 – When Pureed Food Tastes Better Than Your Dinner: Inside Mama Gourmet’s Mission to Change the Game appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 27 April 2026

On this episode, Theresa sits down with Dr. Diane Longnecker, Assistant Professor at Baylor University and clinical researcher at Baylor Scott and White, and Jamie Anderson, medical SLP and clinical instructor at the University of South Florida, to talk about something a lot of clinicians have heard of but aren't quite sure what to do with: pharyngeal manometry. Jamie starts with a confession most of us can probably relate to — she rolled her eyes at it when she first heard about it. Now she can't imagine practicing without it. Dr. Longnecker walks us through why she started using it clinically back in 2019, what her very first case taught her about the limits of visual interpretation, and why she no longer sends a patient for UES management without it. They break down what pharyngeal manometry actually tells you that your modified barium swallow study and FEES simply can't, which patients belong in the referral pool, what the barriers to starting a program actually look like (reimbursement, analysis time, catheter placement), and why someone in this field needs to take ownership of the UES. If you've been curious about this tool but didn't know where to start, this conversation is a genuinely helpful place to begin. Get the show notes and references: https://syppodcast.com/394 The post 394 – Pressure, Pumps, and the UES:The Case for Pharyngeal Manometry in Clinical Practice appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2026

On this episode, Theresa sits down with Dr. Julie Cichero, a clinician, researcher, and one of the foremost experts in dysphagia with over 30 years of experience, to talk about something that has had a complicated reputation in our field: cervical auscultation. If you trained in the 90s, you probably learned it. If you trained more recently, you might have been told to ignore it. The truth, as it turns out, is a lot more nuanced than either camp wants to admit. Dr. Cichero breaks down what the evidence actually shows, including sensitivities of around 91% and negative predictive values that should genuinely change how we think about using this tool at the bedside. She explains why it's not really about the "clink and clunk" sounds at all, and why the breathing pattern after the swallow is where the real clinical information lives. She also shares what proper training looks like, how cervical auscultation fits alongside instrumental assessment (not instead of it), and two clinical stories involving pharyngeal pouches that are honestly pretty wild. Get the show notes and references here: https://syppodcast.com/393 The post 393 – Clinks, Clunks, and Clinical Confidence: Rethinking Cervical Auscultation – Julie Cichero BA, BSpThy(Hons), PhD appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2026

On this episode of Swallow Your Pride, Theresa sits down with Ally Roberts, M.S., CCC-SLP, to talk about dysphagia management, patient-centered care, and the story behind Naturally Nectar. Ally shares what years in acute care, inpatient rehab, and outpatient swallow studies taught her about thickened liquids, clinical nuance, and the importance of listening to what patients actually want. They also get into the process of building a product for people with dysphagia that prioritizes dignity, nutrition, and real-world usability. Get the references here: https://syppodcast.com/392 Website: https://naturallynectar.org The post 392 – The Surprising Truth About Thickened Liquids: What Patients Really Want with Naturally Nectar appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 29 March 2026

In this episode, Theresa interviews Dr. Yvette McCoy, Assistant Professor at Moravian University, about her research on the connection between physical performance and swallowing function in older adults. Dr. McCoy discusses her dissertation, which found that upper body power strongly predicts swallowing-related measures, highlighting the value of integrating exercise science principles into dysphagia rehabilitation. The […] The post 391 – From Exercise Science to Swallowing Success: A New Approach to Dysphagia Rehabilitation appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 15 March 2026

The proposed changes to CPT code 92507 have sparked a lot of discussion across the SLP community. Many clinicians are seeing numbers circulating online and understandably feeling worried about what this might mean for reimbursement and clinical practice. In this episode, Theresa sits down with Lysa Johnson, speech-language pathologist and regulatory compliance expert, to unpack […] The post 390 – SLP Billing Changes: Breaking Down the 92507 Proposal appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2026

In this episode of Swallow Your Pride, Theresa sits down with Dr. Rabab Rangwala, PhD, CCC-SLP, to explore the science behind respiratory–swallow coordination in Parkinson’s disease and what it means for clinical practice. They dive into how breathing patterns can influence swallowing safety, why patients with Parkinson’s may not fully perceive their swallowing impairments, and what recent research reveals about the relationship between patient-reported symptoms and instrumental findings. Dr. Rangwala also shares how her clinical experience shaped her research questions and why instrumental assessment plays a critical role, while still recognizing real-world access barriers. This conversation bridges neuroscience and bedside care, offering practical insights to help medical SLPs strengthen their clinical clarity and better serve individuals with neurologic disease. Get the references and special links to articles mentioned here: https://syppodcast.com/389 Dr. Rabab Rangwala is a speech-language pathologist and postdoctoral scholar at University of California, San Francisco. Her research focuses on the neural and behavioral control of swallowing and speech across healthy and clinical populations. Her work in dysphagia examines respiratory–swallow coordination, and objective assessment of swallowing impairments using wearable sensors, particularly in individuals with Parkinson’s disease and other neurologic conditions. In parallel, she conducts speech neuroscience research using neuroimaging, psychophysics, and computational modeling to understand how the brain supports complex motor behaviors such as speech production. By integrating clinical insight with neuroscience and quantitative methods, Dr. Rangwala’s work seeks to improve our understanding of speech and swallowing disorders, with the goal of informing healthcare delivery, guiding treatment decisions, and ultimately improving patient quality of life. The post 389 – Respiratory–Swallow Coordination in Parkinson’s: What the Research Actually Shows appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 15 February 2026

Dysphagia in Parkinson’s disease is not one-size-fits-all, and treatment decisions shouldn’t be either.In this episode of Swallow Your Pride, Theresa is joined by PD Dr. Bendix Labeit, MBA, neurologist and clinician-scientist, and Jule Hofacker, MSc, speech-language pathologist and PhD student in neurogenic dysphagia, to explore how Parkinson’s treatments impact swallowing. They discuss how dopaminergic medication […] The post 388 – Parkinson’s, Swallowing, and Deep Brain Stimulation: What Clinicians Need to Know appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 26 January 2026

In this episode of the "Swallow Your Pride" podcast, bilingual SLP Margaryta Kuzman shares her expertise on pediatric feeding disorders in early intervention. She discusses the vital role of SLPs, the importance of early identification, and practical steps—ensuring safety, functional feeding observation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Margaryta emphasizes family-centered care, the need for more specialized training, and offers resources for clinicians. She also introduces her platform, Kuzmin SLP, dedicated to empowering providers with evidence-based tools. The conversation highlights the challenges families face and the importance of empathy and teamwork in supporting children with feeding difficulties. Get the show notes at: https://syppodcast.com/387 Margaryta Kuzmin, MA, CCC-SLP, TSSLD-BE, BCS-S is a bilingual speech-language pathologist based in New York City with over 15 years of experience working with infants, toddlers, and school-age children with complex communication, feeding, and developmental needs. She specializes in pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders, AAC, and working with medically complex populations. Margaryta is the founder of KuzminSLP, a professional education platform dedicated to empowering Early Intervention providers (SLPs, OTs, SI, PTs) with practical, evidence-based tools for real-world practice. Her work bridges feeding, language, literacy, and behavior, with a strong emphasis on functional outcomes for children ages birth to three. She is an award-winning clinician, published author, and frequent national and international speaker, and has received multiple awards throughout her career for her contributions to the field. LINKS: https://KuzminSLP.com Instagram: @kuzminSLP The post 387 – From Picky Eaters to Happy Eaters: Strategies for Pediatric Feeding Success appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 19 January 2026

In this powerful episode of Swallow Your Pride, caregiver and author Diane Wolff shares the real-life journey that transformed her mother’s dysphagia diagnosis into a mission to empower millions of families. Diane reveals the practical, step-by-step systems she created to help caregivers feel confident feeding their loved ones safely, from setting up a dysphagia-friendly kitchen, to batch cooking with dignity in mind, to bringing joy and variety back to mealtimes. Get the show notes: https://syppodcast.com/386 Buy the book: https://amzn.to/3KC6q8O Visit the website: https://www.cookingfordysphagia.com The post 386 – Empowering Caregivers: Practical Solutions for Managing Dysphagia at Home appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2025

In this episode of "Swallow Your Pride," host Theresa Richard brings together a panel of NIH-funded researchers from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to unpack the complexity of diagnosing and treating motor speech disorders after left-hemisphere stroke. Theresa Richard guides a conversation that demystifies the overlap between apraxia of speech, dysarthria, and aphasia, highlights the challenges clinicians face in acute and subacute care, and introduces innovative assessment tools designed to bring more objectivity and clarity to real-world practice. The team shares emerging findings, practical insights for SLPs across the continuum of care, and a look at how new perceptual and acoustic measures may shape the future of stroke-related speech assessment. Links mentioned in the show: UNC Center for Aphasia and Related Disorder's Lab website (includes information on our research and helpful therapy resources regarding aphasia, communication partner training, and aphasia-friendly print materials): https://www.med.unc.edu/healthsciences/sphs/card/ Tools Available for Speech Therapists for Assessment... Word Information Measure and Moving Average Type Token Ratio (Shiny App): https://unccard.shinyapps.io/WIM_MATTR/ Word Complexity Measure (Shiny App): https://unccard.shinyapps.io/shiny-woRdcomplex-2/ Word Complexity Measure Ratio (Shiny App): https://unccard.shinyapps.io/shiny-wcmRatio/ The post 385 – Navigating the Complexities of Speech Disorders After Stroke: A Deep Dive into Current Research and Practices appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 27 November 2025

In this “Swallow Your Pride” episode, host Theresa Richard and Shayne Reid from Reflux Gourmet discuss innovative, all-natural solutions for managing acid reflux, including their alginate therapy and new functional chewing gum. They explore the science, safety, and practical use of these products for adults, children, and special populations, sharing personal stories and clinical tips. […] The post 384 – The Ultimate Guide to Reflux Relief: Combining Lifestyle Changes with Innovative Products appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 17 November 2025

In this episode of “Swallow Your Pride,” host Theresa Richard speaks with George Barnes MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S and Ross Dunbar from Progia Medical about innovative technologies for dysphagia care. They discuss the Swallow Therapy System (STS) and Insta device, which provide objective, quantifiable data for tongue strength assessment and therapy. The conversation highlights the importance […] The post 383 – From Research to Reality: The Innovative Devices Revolutionizing Swallowing Therapy appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2025

In this episode of “Swallow Your Pride,” host Theresa Richard interviews Beth McHose, a seasoned speech-language pathologist and AAC specialist. They discuss the importance of early AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) introduction for adults in acute and inpatient care, addressing common misconceptions and resistance from families and staff. Beth shares practical strategies for implementing AAC […] The post 382 – Bridging the Communication Gap: Effective Strategies for Early AAC Use in Adult Care Settings appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 26 October 2025

In this episode of "Swallow Your Pride," host Theresa Richard interviews Alyssa Antcliff, SLP and CEO of IndiAide. Alyssa shares her journey from clinician to tech entrepreneur, introducing IndiAide’s evidence-based remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) platform for speech-language pathologists. Listen to the full episode here: https://syppodcast.com/381 IndiAide Website: https://www.indiaide.com/home FREE RTM Guide: https://info.indiaide.com/rtm-guide The post 381 – The Game-Changer for Speech Therapy: How IndiAide is Redefining Patient Engagement appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 19 October 2025

In this episode of the Swallow Your Pride podcast, Theresa sits down with the founder of Melospeech (yes, that Melospeech!) to talk about her journey from overwhelmed CF to innovative entrepreneur building tech that finally makes documentation easier. If you’re an SLP who’s done being bogged down by daily notes and wants to get back to focusing on actual clinical work, then this is for you. Bonus: Givona is generously offering Swallow Your Pride listeners a FREE subscription to the SLPeaceBot™! Just visit https://www.slpeace.com and use code: PEACE4ME! at checkout. The post 380 – From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Dr. Sandiford Built a Time-Saving Tool for SLPs appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 13 October 2025

In this episode of "Swallow Your Pride," Nicole Scafura, a speech-language pathologist and certified neonatal therapist in a New York City Level IV NICU shares her unique career journey from adult care to pediatric feeding and swallowing. She discusses the complexities of NICU decision-making, and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork and trauma-informed family support. She also addresses building trust within established teams, overcoming imposter syndrome, and her passion for mentorship and education, offering insights for SLPs interested in medically complex pediatric care. Get the show notes: https://syppocdast.com/379 Links: https://neonataltherapists.com https://igniteneonatalmentoringprogram.com https://Infantfeedingspecialists.com The post 379 – From Adult Rehab to Neonatal Care: One SLP’s Journey to the NICU appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 5 October 2025

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Samantha Elandary, MA, CCC-SLP, founder and CEO of the Parkinson Voice Project—and the powerhouse behind the SPEAK OUT!® therapy program. From her early days as an SLP navigating hospital systems to launching a nonprofit that’s helped thousands access care regardless of insurance status, Samantha shares her deeply personal “why” and the bold vision driving her mission. Show notes page: https://syppodcast.com/378 Special links: https://parkinsonvoiceproject.org/ https://parkinsonvoiceproject.org/program/speak-out/   https://parkinsonvoiceproject.org/program/parkinsons-speech-exercises/ The post 378 – More Than a Voice: How One SLP Built a Movement of Access & Advocacy appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 28 September 2025

Dysphagia—difficulty swallowing—affects millions worldwide, especially older adults and those in care settings. For these individuals, mealtime can become a source of anxiety, frustration, and even malnutrition. But what if texture-modified diets could be transformed from a clinical necessity into a source of dignity, comfort, and joy?  In a this week’s episode, Andy Cullum—renowned chef, IDDSI trainer, and advocate for person-centered dysphagia care—shared his journey, philosophy, and actionable strategies for revolutionizing the dining experience for people with swallowing difficulties. This in-depth podcast distills Andy’s expert advice, offering practical guidance for chefs, caregivers, clinicians, and anyone passionate about improving mealtimes for those on modified textured diets. Episode Show Notes: https://syppodcast.com/377 The IDDSI Guy Website - https://www.theiddsiguy.com/ The post 377 – From Blended to Beautiful: Elevating Texture-Modified Meals with Andy Cullum appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 21 September 2025

In this episode of Swallow Your Pride, Dr. Amy Delaney—assistant professor at Marquette University and director of the Neurodevelopmental Feeding and Swallowing Lab—shares groundbreaking insights into pediatric feeding development. She discusses her recent scoping review on oral feeding skills, highlighting the critical gaps in normative data and the need for standardized clinical tools. Dr. Delaney also introduces the Developmental Texture Framework, a novel approach to understanding feeding skill progression using national dietary data from typically developing children. Get the show notes: https://syppodcast.com/376 Follow Theresa Richard on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theresarichardslp Folllow the LinkedIn Newsletter here: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6925225047716499457/ The post 376 – Tackling the Challenges of Pediatric Feeding: What Every Clinician Should Know appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 15 September 2025

Ever leave a CEU course thinking… “Okay, but how do I actually do this with a patient tomorrow?” In this episode, Theresa Richard sits down with Dr. Kristen West to talk all things active learning—including how we’ve evolved from death-by-PowerPoint to interactive clinical simulations (yep, even flaming barrels made an appearance ). Whether you're a new grad, mid-career, or switching settings, this convo will hit home. Learn more about the MedSLP Collective: https://medslpcollective.com Find more episodes here: https://swallowyourpridepodcast.com The post 375 – Beyond the Lecture: The Future of Med SLP Learning appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 10 September 2025

What happens when a passionate SLP flies to Hawaii to train a hospital team in FEES—and ends up learning just as much as she teaches? In this episode, Theresa shares the powerful, behind-the-scenes story of a multi-day FEES training in a hospital system. From the logistics (yes, including rolled up manila folders) to the deeply human moments (like helping a burn patient eat for the first time in months), you’ll hear exactly what it takes to build confident, compassionate FEES providers—without throwing anyone to the wolves. This isn’t just about technique. It’s about mindset. Mentorship. The language we use. The space we create. And the incredible ripple effect it all has on patient care. Whether you're a seasoned FEES mentor or considering your very first pass, this story-driven episode will leave you inspired, empowered, and maybe even a little teary-eyed (in the best way). Listen to the full episode at: https://syppodcast.com/374 Follow Theresa: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theresarichardslp Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheresaRichardMedicalSLP Subscribe to LinkedIn Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/6925225047716499457/ The post 374 – Building Confidence in FEES: The Key to Successful Swallowing Assessments appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 4 September 2025

After an unexpected summer hiatus, we’re back with a solo episode that’s part update, part confession, and 100% from the heart. In this deeply personal kickoff to the new season, Theresa opens up about a professional ego check she didn’t see coming—one that hit close to home.As a board-certified swallowing specialist, choosing a feeding tube for my own son was never part of the plan. But what started as a tough decision turned into something surprisingly beautiful: freedom, nourishment, and a whole lot of learning.In this episode, Theresa Richard shares the behind-the-scenes updates on her dissertation, the MSLP-C™ Certification accreditation, exciting changes in the MedSLP Collective—and the very real parenting moments that led her to a new understanding of what feeding success can look like.Whether you're a med SLP, a parent, or someone navigating what it means to truly support patients and families, this episode is for you. Join the MedSLP Collective: https://medslpcollective.com/ Find out. more about the MSLP-C™ Certification Program: https://medslped.com/certification The post 373 – From Board-Certified in Swallowing… to Getting a Feeding Tube for My Son appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 27 August 2025

What do you get when you mix a surgeon, a scientist, and a self-proclaimed “tinkerer” who also happens to struggle with reflux? You get Dr. James Daniero—and you get this conversation about RefluxRaft. In this episode, Theresa Richard chats with Dr. Daniero, an ENT who’s not just treating voice, airway, and swallowing disorders—he’s innovating them. From basement experiments to biomaterials backed by NIH grants, Dr. Daniero walks us through how his personal journey with reflux turned into RefluxRaft, a barrier-based solution designed to help patients (and clinicians) think beyond PPIs. We dive into the science behind alginates, the "physics problem" behind reflux, and the collaborative power between ENTs, SLPs, and GIs. This one’s for the med SLPs who want to understand the why behind the symptoms—and the potential tools to help. https://RefluxRaft.com Download show notes and references here: https://syppodcast.com/372 The post 372 – What If Reflux Isn’t Just an Acid Problem? A New Way to Think About It with RefluxRaft appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 19 June 2025

“They just told me I had a stroke—but no one ever explained what that means.” In this eye-opening episode, Theresa chats with with bilingual SLP and educator Jackie Rodriguez to unpack one of the most overlooked drivers of poor outcomes: health literacy. Episode Page: https://syppodcast.com/371 The post 371 – When Care Misses the Mark: How Health Literacy Impacts Our Patients appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 4 June 2025

If you’ve ever wondered, “Wait… are we as SLPs really allowed to be in the esophagus?” — this episode is for you. Theresa brings on two MedSLP Collective favorites, Christoph Schmitz, CEO of PatCom Medical, Inc, and Laura McWilliams, med SLP + board-certified swallowing specialist + all-around powerhouse. Together, they unpack what might just be one of the most exciting innovations in med SLP care: the PatCom Introducer. Visit Patcom: https://patcommedical.com PatCom Medical is hosting upcoming courses for hands on training for the PatCom Introducer that can be found at this link: https://slp-education.com/l/alternative-feeding-and-enteral-access-and-the-patcom-introducer-live-in-person-august-3-2025-new-york-new-york/67aba77b-7fef-46b4-b7c2-3b9146f85fbe

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2025

 Feeling all the feels around pediatric feeding disorders? You're not alone. In this powerful episode of Swallow Your Pride, Theresa Richard sits down with Dr. Jeanne Marshall—a clinician-researcher and passionate advocate for early intervention in pediatric feeding—to talk about the real stories behind the research. They dive into:  A scoping review on dysphagia prevalence in […] The post 369 – When the Research Meets Real Life: Pediatric Feeding, Family, and Feeding Tubes appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

Raise your hand if you've ever felt like airway and breathwork live in some mysterious corner of our field that only a handful of people truly understand ‍♀️ Well… this episode might just be your flashlight. ✨ Theresa chats with with the incredibly knowledgeable—and wonderfully down-to-earth—Kaitlyn Shrum, MS, CCC-SLP, QOM, IBT, who wears many hats: […] The post 368 – Exploring the Vital Role of Breathwork and Airway Health in Speech and Swallowing Challenges. appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

When it comes to true community reentry after brain injury or stroke, real magic happens through teamwork—and Alexandra Arvidson, M.S., CCC-SLP, is here to show us how. In this episode, Alexandra shares her journey from feeling stuck on “SLP Island” to thriving as part of an interdisciplinary dream team that gets patients back into the […] The post 367 – Beyond the Workbook: Engaging Patients with Meaningful, Tailored Therapy appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

In this episode of the Swallow Your Pride podcast, Theresa Richard sits down with Ali Mehreganfar—a stroke survivor, motivational speaker, and author who is redefining what recovery can look like. Ali shares his incredible journey from coma to comeback, offering a heartfelt look into his hospital experiences, the hurdles of rehab, and the mindset shifts […] The post 366 – From Stroke to Strength: How One Survivor is Rewriting the Recovery Story appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

In this episode of the “Swallow Your Pride” podcast, host Theresa Richard speaks with Roxann Diez Gross, PhD, CCC-SLP, ASHA Fellow, an expert in dysphagia with over 38 years of experience. Dr. Gross discusses her innovative Diez technique, which focuses on the interplay between breathing and swallowing to treat dysphagia. She shares insights from her […] The post 365 – The Diez Technique: Revolutionizing Dysphagia Care Through Breathing Coordination appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2025

In this episode of the “Swallow Your Pride” podcast, host Theresa Richard speaks with Dr. Lauren Tabor Gray, a clinician scientist and assistant professor at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Gray, who directs the Gray Research Lab, discusses her work on respiratory exercise interventions for ALS patients. The conversation covers the complexities of managing swallowing disorders […] The post 364 – Navigating the Complexities of ALS: A Deep Dive into Dysphagia and Airway Management with Dr. Lauren Tabor Gray appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 6 April 2025

In this episode of the "Swallow Your Pride" podcast, host Theresa Richard engages with Dr. Stephanie Watts and Jessica Gregor, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S  to discuss advancements in dysphagia care. They introduce the Esophageal CoLab and the Robust Esophageal Screening Test (REST), aiming to improve swallowing disorder diagnostics and treatment. The conversation highlights the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, flexible clinical protocols, and ongoing education. Dr. Watts and Jessica share their experiences and research, emphasizing the need for tailored patient care and effective communication strategies. The episode concludes with a call to action for clinicians to adopt innovative practices and enhance patient outcomes. Find out more about their course here: https://esophagealcolab.com/offerings Resources that include articles discussed on this podcast: https://esophagealcolab.com/resources Timestamps:   Discussion on Esophageal Co-lab (00:03:35) Meeting Origin Story (00:04:41) Need for Education (00:06:10) Importance of Protocols (00:07:01) Explanation of REST (00:09:16) Training Evolution (00:11:30) Understanding Esophageal Function (00:12:49) Addressing Knowledge Gaps (00:14:43) Role of the SLP Team (00:17:30) Research and Development (00:19:34) Standardization Process (00:21:52) Future of the Co-lab (00:22:37) Research on Bolus Trials (00:23:27) Protocol Adaptability (00:24:07) Collaboration and Town Hall (00:26:04) Change Management in SLPs (00:28:22) Support from Radiologists (00:29:00) Course Structure and Topics (00:31:38) Importance of Critical Thinking (00:34:45) Future Course Offerings (00:40:05) Feedback and Impact (00:40:58) Registration Information (00:42:11) The post 363 – From Research to Reality: How REST is Changing the Game for Swallowing Specialists appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

In this episode of the "Swallow Your Pride" podcast, host Theresa Richard interviews Bennett Blakeman, co-founder of K Pharmaceuticals, about Aquoral, a product designed to alleviate dry mouth (xerostomia). Bennett explains how Aquoral differs from typical water-based products by creating a protective layer in the mouth, offering longer-lasting relief. They discuss the importance of patient education, access, and the cost of Aquoral, emphasizing its benefits for individuals undergoing cancer treatments or dealing with Sjögren's syndrome. The episode underscores the need for innovative, patient-centered solutions in the field of swallowing disorders. The post 362 – From Parched to Perfect: The Game-Changer for Dry Mouth Relief with Aquoral appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

What do rats have to do with swallowing disorders? More than you think! In this episode, we talk with Michelle Ciucci, PhD, CCC-SLP, a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, to explore the important role of animal research in understanding swallowing disorders in neurogenic diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Michelle explains how her lab uses […] The post 361 – Beyond the Clinic: How animal models are changing dysphagia research with Dr. Michelle Ciucci appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

"I go to swallow, and nothing triggers. Alarm bells are ringing in my head because, as a speech therapist, it's the scariest feeling." What started as a routine cosmetic procedure turned into a medical nightmare for SLP Megan McCue. After just 12 units of Botox, she experienced severe swallowing difficulties, systemic complications, and a battle to be believed by medical professionals. Her story exposes the darker side of a treatment millions undergo without question. In this eye-opening episode, learn about: The hidden risks of botulinum toxin treatments How Botox can affect swallowing function Critical warning signs every medical professional should know The importance of including Botox history in patient screenings Latest research on systemic spread and nervous system impact As both a patient and healthcare provider, Megan offers unique insights into this under-discussed issue, challenging common assumptions about a widely-used treatment. Whether you're a medical professional or considering Botox treatment, this episode provides crucial information about potential risks and the importance of informed consent. Get the show notes: https://syppodcast.com/360 The post 360 – When Beauty Treatments Go Wrong: An SLP’s Warning About Cosmetic Botox Injections appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

Is picky eating just a phase, or could it be something more serious? How can we tell the difference? What do we do next?  These questions are so common for clinicians and caregivers alike.  Feeding challenges can contribute to high levels of stress and even PTSD for the families we serve.  Thankfully, in this week’s episode, renowned feeding specialist Melanie Potock, MA, CCC-SLP, brings her 25 years of experience and expertise to the table (pun intended)! She shares how her experiences with feeding challenges inspired her career and offers advice on navigating the complex world of feeding therapy. Get the notes: https://syppodcast.com/359 The post 359 – The truth about picky eaters: What every parent and SLP should know appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 16 February 2025

When passion meets purpose, incredible things happen… In this inspiring episode, Melissa Grassia-Chisholm shares her vision for bridging gaps in voice and swallowing therapy through the upcoming Functional Voice Swallow Airway Conference – and proves that innovation often starts with seeing what's missing. With remarkable enthusiasm, Melissa opens up about:  ➡️ Creating a hands-on learning […] The post 358 – Breaking the Voice Conference Mold: From hands-on workshops to innovative therapy approaches appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 9 February 2025

Ever wished there was a way to make nutritional supplements actually enjoyable for your patients with dysphagia? Meet Jeff Holtz, the ice cream innovator who's shaking up how we think about dysphagia nutrition. With 30 years in the ice cream industry, Jeff didn't just create another supplement – he developed a fortified ice cream that […] The post 357 – Ice Cream That Heals? Meet Jeff Holtz, CEO of Thrive Ice Cream! appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

When life hands you an unconventional path, sometimes it leads to exactly where you're meant to be… In this inspiring episode, Hannelyn Perez shares her remarkable journey from Navy medical service to speech-language pathology to tech innovation – and proves that your background doesn't define your future. With remarkable candor, Hannelyn opens up about:  ➡️ […] The post 356 – From Military Service to Med SLP Innovation: A Story of Grit & Growth appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of medical trauma, depression, and suicidal ideation. One minute she was living her dream as a school SLP. The next, she was using eye gaze to communicate in the ICU… In this deeply personal episode, Vanessa Abraham, M.S., CCC-SLP shares her profound journey from school-based SLP to ICU patient, […] The post 355 – From SLP to Patient: A Journey That Will Change How You Practice – Vanessa Abraham, M.S., CCC-SLP appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

Thinking about bringing FEES to your facility but feeling overwhelmed by the logistics? You're not alone! From infection control protocols to physician collaboration, implementing FEES can seem like climbing Mount Everest.  In this week's episode, Sandy Schwartz, MS, CCC-SLP shares game-changing insights about:  Cost analysis and ROI justification  Training requirements and state regulations  Equipment selection […] The post 354 – FEES Implementation: From Equipment to ROI – A Practical Guide – Sandra A Schwartz MS, CCC-SLP appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2025

Are you frustrated with patient positioning during video fluoroscopy studies? Ever wonder why some facilities seem to breeze through MBS studies while others struggle to get basic views? This week's episode might just change how you think about your fluoroscopy equipment forever. We're thrilled to share our conversation with Julie Kobak, MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS, a […] The post 353 – Why Your MBS Chair Could Make or Break Your Diagnostic Accuracy with Julie Kobak MA, CCC-SLP, CBIS appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 5 January 2025

Are you ready to rethink everything you know about voice therapy?  If so, buckle up. This week’s episode has everything you need to help you provide fast, functional, effective, and generalizable voice therapy. We are so proud to share our conversation with Amanda Gillespie, PhD, CCC-SLP, and Jackie Gartner-Schmidt, PhD, CCC-SLP, ASHA Fellow about their […] The post 352 – Conversation Training Therapy: Faster, smarter voice therapy appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2024

Entrepreneurship The post 351 – Broad Horizons, Bold Moves: Calonda Henry on SLP Entrepreneurship, Advocacy, and Empowerment appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 8 December 2024

In the SLP space alone, there are over 300 kinds of certifications you can achieve in your professional development journey. While certifications are completely optional and a personal decision based on your goals and current work situation, there are certain standards to consider when browsing your options. One question to ask yourself is: “Is this certification accredited OR undergoing the accreditation process?” Creating an accredited certification program is not something one can randomly do or purchase. I know…who would have thought?! Accreditation is a rigorous, lengthy, and comprehensive process with multiple levels of accountability, subject matter experts, and psychometric methods. And the MSLP-C™ Certification is months away from being accredited! Friends, this was a pro cess.  We have shared a TON about the “why” behind this certification. In this week’s podcast we discuss the “how”!  Lori Morgan, PhD, CCC-SLP and Manny Straehle, PhD - a psychometrician (and data wizard, in my opinion) - join me to dive into the nitty gritty about the accreditation & certifying exam process for the MSLP™  Certification including: how accreditation works why we need a psychometrician on the team why and how a certification exam is created (THIS was a doozy!!) the process of item-writing, research, and verification what the overall goal is with this optional certification. Tune in and prepare to be blown away by how much work was done to ensure we are offering the highest quality certification program available to medical SLPs!  Find out more about the MSLP-C™ Certification Program here: https://medslped.com/certification The post 350 – MSLP-C™ Certification Updates: Accreditation, Committees, and Subject-Matter Experts! appeared first on Swallow Your Pride Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 3 December 2024