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  • 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.

  • Guest: Tiffany Elliott, MS CCC-SLP, CNT, IBCLC

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Bridging-NICU-to-Home

    In this special birthday episode of First Byte, Michelle Dawson, a devoted therapist and mother, explores the intricate journey from NICU to home with expert Tiffany Elliott. They discuss practical strategies for caregivers in maintaining emotional wellbeing, the importance of neuroprotective care, and the Hospital to Home Systems Change project aimed at improving continuity of care for infants and their families. Elliott shares her insights from working in various NICUs, setting up essential support systems, and the critical role that emotional support plays in successful infant feeding. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in pediatric feeding, NICU professionals, and caregivers navigating early intervention services.

    Episode Timeline:

    00:00 Welcome to First Bite

    00:29 A Day in the Life of a Pediatric Feeding Specialist

    01:31 University of Tennessee Lecture Experience

    04:11 Encouragement for Clinical Supervisors

    05:59 Introducing Tiffany Elliott

    06:41 Tiffany's Journey and NICU Experience

    19:09 Hospital to Home Systems Change

    23:39 Challenges in Early Intervention

    26:53 Barriers and Solutions in Washington State

    36:21 Personal and Professional Reflections

    40:12 Navigating Academia and Authenticity

    41:39 Balancing Productivity and Care in the NICU

    44:21 Challenges in Early Intervention Systems

    45:29 Continuity of Care and Billing Codes

    49:21 Training and Support for Caregivers

    51:59 Emotional Wellbeing and Feeding

    01:00:16 Practical Strategies for Caregiver Support

    01:11:38 Final Thoughts and Resources

    About the Guest(s): Tiffany Elliott, MS CCC-SLP, CNT, IBCLC, is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) who specializes in pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders with a strong focus on preterm and medically complex infants and strengthening the caregiver-infant dyad. She is also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and holds certifications in neonatal therapy (CNT) as well as neonatal touch and massage (NTMTC). She is currently a LEND trainee at the University of Washington. Tiffany is passionate about improving systems of care. She is a hospital-to-home systems change specialist with Northwest Center, where she partners with professionals across Washington state to enhance the hospital-to-home transition for infants and build community therapists' capacity. She also works on the infant feeding team at Seattle Children’s Hospital, providing direct care for infants and their families. Before these positions, she co-founded the UW Medical Center’s NICU SLP program and worked at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital.

    Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/n7hXTJG_FJM

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  • Guest: Amy Zembriski, MBA, MS, CCC-SLP

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Neurodiversity-Affirming-Feeding-Therapy-Where-do-I-Start

    In this episode of First Bite, host Michelle Dawson introduces a valuable conversation between Erin Forward and Amy Zimbrisky, a seasoned speech therapist specializing in neurodiversity affirming feeding therapy. After highlighting insights from the Feeding Matters Conference, Erin and Amy delve into practical strategies for beginning feeding therapy with neurodiverse children. They discuss creating a safe and welcoming environment, the importance of caregiver education, and the significance of understanding each child's unique relationship with food. Amy shares her personal journey in overcoming challenges and learning to support her clients in a more holistic and relationship-based manner, emphasizing the significance of autonomy and trust. Tune in to learn how to build therapeutic strategies personalized for each child, utilize AAC effectively, and foster a positive mealtime experience.

    Episode Timeline:

    00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

    00:41 Feeding Matters Conference Highlights

    01:31 Creating a Safe Space for Feeding Therapy

    03:33 Personal Reflections and Announcements

    05:25 Introduction to Amy Zembrisky

    07:16 Amy's Journey in Feeding Therapy

    11:44 Building Trust and Autonomy in Feeding Therapy

    15:29 Caregiver Education and Support

    17:44 The Importance of Routine and Flexibility

    35:28 Validating Caregiver Concerns

    36:44 Navigating Social Media Judgments on Parenting

    37:51 Understanding Children's Food Preferences

    38:54 The Importance of Flexibility in Feeding Therapy

    40:24 Building Trust and Safety in Therapy

    42:10 Case Study: Engaging a Child in Mealtime

    43:42 Personalizing Therapy Approaches

    47:45 The Role of Caregivers in Feeding Therapy

    58:12 Advice for New Therapists

    01:00:55 Resources and Mentorship

    01:05:19 Conclusion and Contact Information

    About the Guest: Amy Zembriski, MBA, MS, CCC-SLP is a certified speech language pathologist with an extensive background working in a variety of settings, including acute care, skilled nursing facilities, schools, early intervention, and private practice. Additionally, she has had past experience working as an adjunct professor supervising graduate students during their diagnostic clinical practicum. She is the owner of Speech Therapy Connections in Fair Lawn, NJ, where she specializes in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and gestalt language processing; Amy offers expert support for families with autistic children. Her passion lies in educating and empowering both professionals and families through neurodiversity-affirming practices.

  • Guest: Ashley Muñoz López MBA, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Discovering-the-Leader-in-You

    In this episode, Michelle Dawson introduces the theme of leadership within the field of speech pathology. Michelle shares insights from her recent experience at the Feeding Matters conference, highlighting the importance of advocacy, especially regarding the protection of 504 plans under threat in several states. The week's guest, Ashley Lopez, delves into her journey as a speech pathologist transitioning from adult care to pediatric care, her pursuit of leadership roles, and the challenges of balancing professional and personal life during these transitions. Ashley also opens up about the impact of postpartum depression, the necessity of finding one's tribe for support, and her educational path that includes obtaining an MBA to enhance her leadership skills. This episode is a heartfelt discussion about personal growth, professional transitions, and the essential role of advocacy in the field.

    Link to ASHA Advocacy - Texas v. Beccera: https://www.asha.org/news/2025/texas-v-becerra-a-lawsuit-that-threatens-disability-rights/

    Episode Timeline:

    00:00 Welcome to First Bite

    00:18 Reflections on Feeding Matters Conference

    02:52 The Fight for 504 Plans

    07:39 Introducing Ashley Lopez

    09:14 Ashley's Journey into Speech Pathology

    17:33 Career Pivots and Challenges

    20:45 Transitioning to Pediatrics

    22:52 Navigating Postpartum Depression

    32:35 Mentorship and Adult Learning

    34:19 Pursuing an MBA During the Pandemic

    37:38 Discovering a Passion for Medicine

    38:01 Pursuing an MBA

    38:41 Balancing Education and Career

    39:59 Understanding the Bigger Picture in Healthcare

    40:50 The Importance of Leadership in Healthcare

    41:38 Graduating and Future Aspirations

    43:06 Challenges in Clinical Training

    45:09 The Role of Business in Healthcare

    46:10 Personal Life and Professional Balance

    49:14 Finding Support and Building a Tribe

    51:43 Adapting to New Normals

    01:03:04 Leadership and Continuous Learning

    01:09:09 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

    About the Guest: Ashley is a board-certified clinician with experience in direct patient care, project management, service line development, and leadership. She has worked as a speech-language pathologist for over a decade and has experience working with children and adults in various practice pathways. She has substantial experience working with patients with acquired brain injury, respiratory compromise, and dysphagia.

    Ashley has been published in the ASHA Leader and Aerodigestive Health as well as the Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups. She received the Distinguished Early Career Professional (ECP) Certificate in 2018 and graduated from ASHA's Leadership Development Program (LDP) in 2019. She is a current member of the Hispanic Caucus for ASHA and a previous board member. She has been a guest speaker for several universities and has presented at the local, state, and national levels, including multidisciplinary presentations with nursing organizations. Most recently, she was invited to be a speaker at ASHA's upper airway online conference. In 2020, Ashley began her term as a site visitor for the Council on Academic Accreditation (CAA). ​​​

    Ashley provided dedicated service to ASHA's Special Interest Group 13 as a professional development member from 2021 - to 2023 and the CE content manager. Currently, she is serving on the adult swallowing committee for the ASHA 2024 convention. Outside of her duties in the clinical realm, Ashley empowers diverse members of the healthcare workforce and was the 2022 co-chair and 2023

  • Guest: Dyan Dickerson MA, CCC-SLP

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

    In this episode of First Bite, Michelle and Erin welcomes Dyan Dickerson, a certified expert in DIR Floortime and feeding, to explore the intricacies of the Floortime model. Listeners get an inside look into the principles of DIR (Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-based) Floortime and understand its impact on communication and feeding therapy. Diane shares her professional journey, the importance of affect, and how to approach therapy with critical thinking. Tune in to hear case studies and learn practical tips for applying Floortime in both feeding and communication settings.

    About the Guest: Dyan Dickerson is an ASHA (USA) and RCLST (UK) certified speech-language pathologist who graduated with both her B.S. and M.A. degrees in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida. While in school, Dyan became passionate about The Floortime Approach while working privately with a family, where she used the approach with their son for nearly four years (Hi, J!). After graduation, Dyan moved to Washington, D.C., to work at The Floortime Center for six years, where she later became the lead speech-language pathologist. Dyan provided services in the private practice setting, school-based therapy, home services, and throughout the community. She saw clients in individual sessions and group therapy as well as provided intensive services for families around the world as part of a collaborative team. Dyan is Floortime trained and holds certification in the S.O.S. Approach to Feeding and Integrated Listening Therapy (iLs) and training with Gestalt Language Processing. While working at The Floortime Center, Dyan traveled to Budapest to present on Foodtime, a feeding program she co-developed, as well as Miami to present on both Foodtime and speech-language therapy using the Greenspan Floortime Approach. Dyan is a collaborative volunteer for The Greenspan Approach online course - an ASHA-approved C.E. program - she holds licensure in Florida and the UK. Dyan believes in a developmental, whole-child approach to therapy and uses The Floortime Approach to support children and their families. Dyan is soon moving back to Tampa, Florida, and will support clients and families in person and virtually.

  • Guest: Travis Threats, PhD, CCC-SLP

    GoFundMe link referenced in intro: https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-chriss-love-legacy-through-his-daughters

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=A-Conversation-on-the-Intersection-of-Faith-between-Clinicia

    In this heartfelt episode of 'First Bite,' host Michelle Dawson and guest Dr. Travis Threats dive deep into the intersection of faith, healing, and cultural awareness within the field of speech therapy. From personal stories of overcoming grief and professional struggles to examining the role of faith in patient care, this episode explores how spiritual beliefs and cultural backgrounds profoundly influence therapeutic practices. Viewers will learn about the importance of humility in practice, honoring diverse traditions, and the ethical considerations of treating clients from various faiths and cultures. Join us for an enlightening conversation on bringing light, hope, and joy to the pediatric speech therapy community.

    Episode Timeline:

    00:00 Welcome to First Bite

    05:46 Introducing Dr. Travis Threats

    08:30 Faith and Professional Practice

    16:21 Cultural Competence in Speech Therapy

    33:05 Client's Unexpected Reaction

    34:08 Faith and Professionalism

    35:34 Navigating Religious Differences

    38:57 Handling Bias in Clinical Settings

    42:14 Cultural Sensitivity in Practice

    56:44 Faith in Healthcare Professions

    01:01:26 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

    First Bite is now on YouTube - https://youtu.be/khogy7_oMjM

  • Guest: Dr. Richard Noel, MD

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=The-Medical-Domain-of-Pediatric-Feeding-Disorder

    In this episode, Dr. Richard Noel joins the discussion to shed light on Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) and its medical domain. Dr. Noel shares his journey to becoming a pediatric GI specialist and explores the critical components of managing PFD. Key topics include the importance of growth and nutrition, management of upper GI tract issues, and the significance of airway and lung concerns. Dr. Noel also addresses common misconceptions about reflux in infants and the use of various appetite stimulants such as ciproheptadine and mirtazapine. Viewers will gain valuable insights into constipation management, the role of scheduled toileting, and the importance of multidisciplinary care in treating PFD. The conversation underscores the need for better medical understanding and care strategies for children with PFD.

    Timeline:

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    01:41 Journey to Becoming a Pediatric Gastroenterologist

    05:32 Understanding Pediatric Feeding Disorders

    06:51 Medical Domain of PFD: Key Considerations

    08:24 Addressing Nutritional Concerns

    14:17 Managing Constipation in PFD

    21:39 Behavioral Strategies for Feeding

    23:36 Family Involvement in Feeding Therapy

    26:04 Family Routines and Feeding Therapy

    26:47 Medications for Appetite Stimulation

    27:03 Ciproheptadine: Uses and Effects

    31:18 Mirtazapine: An Appetite Stimulant

    34:49 Megastrol: A Powerful Appetite Stimulant

    37:07 Managing GI Issues in Children

    38:03 Reflux and Vomiting in Infants

    43:09 Cyclical GI Disorders: Abdominal Migraines and More

    47:20 The Role of Multidisciplinary Teams in Pediatric Care

    48:56 Challenges in Pediatric Feeding Disorder Education

    53:46 Advocacy and Access to Multidisciplinary Care

    About the Guest: Dr. Richard Noel was born in Mexico City and grew up in San Antonio, TX. He has MD/PhD degrees from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas and did a residency in Pediatrics at Wake Forest University in NC. He trained in Pediatric Gastroenterology at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, where he developed an interest in working with children with pediatric feeding disorders. He worked for 10 years at the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin with Dr. Colin Rudolph and then transitioned to Duke University, where is currently Division Chief for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition.

    Watch this Interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NVGPdIzfobs

  • Guests: Jennifer Ruckner, MS CCC-SLP, and Beth Cooper, MOT, OTR/L

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Sensory-Detective-Part-2-A-Closer-Inspection

    In this episode, Michelle is joined once again by Jennifer Ruckner, MS CCC-SLP, and Beth Cooper, MOT, OTR/L, for “Sensory Detective Part 2: A Closer Inspection”. In “Part 1” (#3660), Jen and Beth went into detail on the roles and responsibilities of SLPs and OTs with respect to “sensory” and how they can collaborate, and they were just getting started. In “Part 2”, they share why it is so critical to empower caregivers in their child’s sensory journey and how to teach clinicians to do so, starting with the initial evaluation. Jen and Beth then transition to a series of case studies to highlight the impact of the “medical domain” of pediatric feeding disorder on the child’s sensory systems and wrap up with recommendations on when/why taking a break from therapy can be beneficial. Remember, everyone has a role in “sensory,” and we hope that this episode continues to grow your passion for it.

    About the Guest(s):

    Jennifer Ruckner MS, CCC-SLP received her Bachelor's of Science Degree and a Master's Degree in Communication Disorders from Auburn University. She has been a speech-language pathologist since 1990 working in a variety of settings including Early Intervention, school districts, and private practice. Jennifer piloted a preschool expressive language program for Stafford County Schools. Jennifer specializes in Social/Pragmatic Language, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Expressive Language Disorder, and Feeding Disorders, and is Beckman Oral Motor Certified. She provides services through Telepractice and at home. In 2008, she and partner Patti Minicucci created Tots To Teens Therapy Services to provide speech and language resources in an interdisciplinary approach to the families of Northern Virginia. Jennifer is a Community Ambassador for Feeding Matters, a non-profit, parent-founded organization.

    Sharibeth (Beth) Cooper MS, OTR/L received her Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Illinois-Chicago in 2004. She has experience working in various settings, including home-based early intervention, teletherapy, school systems, outpatient clinics, and as part of a diagnostic team for a center for autism. She is certified in the Handwriting Without Tears® program, M.O.V.E® program, and Therapeutic Listening®. She has completed advanced continuing education in MORE, Floortime/DIR, Kinesiotaping, The Ready Approach for Self Regulation®, The Alert Program®, TEACCH®, TalkTools, neurodevelopmental techniques, and assistive technology. She has been a presenter at state conferences, parent workshops, universities, daycares, and school programs. Beth also serves as the Clinical Director at Tots to Teens Therapy Services. In her spare time, Beth enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and four children.

    YouTube Episode Link: https://youtu.be/VrDBJufQpzo

  • Guest: Angelyn Franks, SLPD, CCC-SLP

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Burnout-and-Mindfulness-for-the-SLP-The-Conversations-we-Nee

    Join Erin and Dr. Angelyn Franks in an honest conversation about a topic that most SLPs don’t dive into but have experienced at one time or another: burnout. Dr. Angelyn Franks provides an authentic perspective on what burnout actually is, how to identify it, ways to support someone (or yourself), and proactive strategies. So many SLPs have been outspoken about their stress and frustration within the field and Angelyn is here to provide insight into what we can do to support our mental health in a field we all love.

    Watch the full video interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl39nZGkVGA

  • Guest: Carolyn Dolby MS, CCC-SLP

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Establishing-PFD-and-Dysphagia-Services-in-the-Schools

    In this episode, Michelle and Erin are joined by none other than Carolyn Dolby, MS, CCC-SLP, host of the “School of Speech” podcast, and sought-after speaker for how to implement pediatric feeding disorder and dysphagia care in the Schools Carolyn spends this hour sharing her first-hand experience on successfully establishing this PFD/dysphagia management in the Houston, TX school district and how she is doing it again in Portland, OR. If you have wanted insider knowledge on the screening, evaluating, and treating process, how to obtain district-level support, or simply where to start the process, then this is the hour for you.

    Watch the full video interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wh-8Lif_DVQ?si=PUPaqqddRWCOdc5z

  • Guest: Rachel Archambault, MA CCC-SLP (@PTSD.SLP)

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Taking-a-Bite-out-of-TraumaInformed-Care

    In this episode, Michelle and Erin are joined by Rachel Archambault, an SLP Program Specialist for Broward County Public Schools and passionate colleague behind the @PTSD.SLP social media advocacy account. “Trauma-informed care” (TIC) has gained traction within our field in the last few years; however, most of us who practice this approach have never received explicit instruction. Where do we begin? Well, that’s what Rachel and Erin break down in this episode. Tune in as they go through the key principles, discuss preferred resources, and then teach us how to clinically apply it to the little ones we serve in all settings: early intervention, private practice, and even public schools!

    About the Guest:

    Rachel Archambault, MA CCC-SLP is an SLP Program Specialist for Broward County Public Schools. After a traumatic event happened at her workplace on 2/14/18, she looked for ways to help work with students (and herself) after trauma. She found trauma-informed care and has been presenting nationally to SLPs and other providers on how TIC can be used in their setting. She runs the Instagram account, @PTSD.SLP which discusses TIC from a speech lens.

    Hosted by: Michelle Dawson MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S and Erin Forward, MSP, CCC-SLP, CLC, Advanced DIR/Floortime® Provider, TBRI® Trained Practitioner

    Watch the full video interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@speechtherapypd

  • Guests: Jaclyn Peterson, MHI and William Sharp, PhD

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Feeding-Matters-Leading-the-Way-for-ARFID-and-PFD

    In the first episode of 2025, Michelle is joined by Jaclyn Pederson, MHI, CEO of Feeding Matters, and William Sharp, PhD, Director of Children’s Multidisciplinary Feeding Program (Atlanta, GA) and Professor at Emory University School of Medicine, to lay the foundation for a year of combining passion, advocacy, and learning. These guests share their expertise and highlights from a recent journal publication on how the diagnoses of “Pediatric Feeding Disorder” and “Avoidant Restrictive Feeding Intake Disorder” are individualistic while simultaneously overlapping to capture the unique needs of the little ones on our caseloads. Additionally, they share practical insight into the roles and responsibilities of various team members, such as the SLP and the psychologist, in evaluating and treating these little ones as part of an interprofessional practice team.

    About the Guests:

    Jaclyn Peterson, MHI: With more than a decade of experience in program development, Jaclyn Pederson’s broad knowledge of programming in the public and social sectors includes program and strategic initiative design, fund development, special events, grant writing, and community engagement. A system thinker and positive team builder, she uses transformational leadership principles to develop energized and efficient workgroups that influence significant organizational and systemic change for all affected by pediatric feeding disorder –such as the development of the expanded PFD Alliance. Jaclyn also manages Feeding Matters’ strategic partnerships with numerous professional associations, including the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), the American Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN).

    William Sharp, PhD is a clinical psychologist and professor in the department of pediatrics at Emory University School of Medicine. He is also the Director of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Multidisciplinary Feeding Program. In this role, Dr. Sharp leads a team of professionals that includes psychologists, physicians, speech-language pathologists, and dietitians who evaluate and treat children with pediatric feeding disorder and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). His research interest focuses on identifying the cause, consequences, and treatment of chronic food refusal in pediatric populations. His most recent work involves developing and evaluating a training curriculum for therapists to deliver a manual-based intervention for food selectivity - or extremely narrow dietary in children with ARFID.

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

    Watch the full video interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@speechtherapypd

  • Guest: John Holahan, President of SimplyThick, LLC

    Earn .1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Simply-Thick-IDDSI-and-Compassionate-Clinical-Implications

    Join Michelle as she welcomes John Holahan, President of SimplyThick, LLC and co-author of Modern Dysphagia Cookbook, for the final episode of 2024. John shares the story behind SimplyThick, its IDDSI connections, and why these insights matter in pediatric care. With his grace, joy, and dedication to supporting others, this episode is a perfect way to end the year on an inspiring note!

  • Guest: Kara Jones M.A. CCC-SLP, CBIS

    Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Unlocking-the-Power-of-CBIS-for-our-Patients

    In this episode, Michelle is joined by Kara Jones, M.A. CCC-SLP, CBIS, Past President of the Georgia Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and Dr. Robert A. Hull, Leadership Award recipient, to discuss all things “Certified Brain Injury Specialist”! Not all of us had the opportunity to take advanced coursework in brain injury across the lifespan in graduate school. However, we often encounter cognitive-communication-based disorders on our caseloads and need to know current evidence-based treatments. In this hour, Kara builds us up by sharing functional resources for learning more about the brain, how pursuing the CBIS can benefit the patients we serve, as well as educating us on some of the most common brain injuries we can expect to encounter professionally.

  • In this episode, Michelle and Erin are back at it to spend an hour dedicated to pediatric feeding disorder (PFD) goal writing. After spending 280+ episodes growing our evidenced-based practice, we have evolved how we write our PFD goals big-time! So, wrap up your year discovering functional resources for combating ableism and antiquated deficits-based writing, and join the ladies of “First Bite” to discover ways to write strengths-based and trauma-informed goals that respect the autonomy of the children on your caseload while also supporting their caregivers in the process of making merry memories during mealtime!

  • Guest: Shawna Ross, MS, CCC-SLP

    In this episode, Michelle is joined by Shawna Ross, MS, CCC-SLP, founder of Sierra Therapy Group, a pediatric private practice in Reno, NV, and passionate SLP volunteer, who is currently serving on ASHA’s Committee of Ambassadors, as the SLP Member for Nevada. As colleagues from around the globe are gearing up for “Elevate!” ASHA Convention 2024 in Seattle, WA, Michelle and Shawna thought it was the perfect time to share a little insight into the amazing gains this year for ASHA’s Public Policy Agenda and how ASHA’s Committee of Ambassadors played a vital role. So, if you have ever wanted to become more involved in advocating for federal policy change on anything/everything from reimbursement rates, the interstate compact, or increased access to care for those we have been called to serve, this is the hour for you!

  • Guest: Marsha Dunn Klein, OTR/L, MEd, FAOTA

    In this episode, Michelle and Erin are joined by THE Marsha Dunn Klein, OTR/L, MEd, FAOTA, founder of the “Get Permission Institute” for part two of a four-part miniseries on Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD)! In this hour, Marsha discusses the evidenced-based neurodivergent affirming PFD shifts behind the “try it” approach for intervention. If you have ever felt uncomfortable writing a goal and asking a child to “take a bite” or “lick it three times,” know that you are not alone. Work through relevant case studies with Marsha, Erin, and Michelle as they troubleshoot viable alternatives that embrace a child’s autonomy. Learn how to write goals correlating to daily mealtime routines, implement authentic mealtime joy for child and caregiver, and document clinically relevant progress.

  • Guest: Heidi Liefer Moreland, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CLC

    In this episode, Michelle is joined by the one and only Heidi Liefer Moreland, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CLC, Clinical Coordinator with Thrive Tube-Weaning Program, cohost of the podcast “Tube to Table,” published author and researcher, and internationally sought after speaker! For this hour-long conversation, Heidi shares her evidence-based approach to supporting little ones and their caregivers in their natural environment as they learn to eat by mouth! So, suppose you are ready to learn about intrinsic motivation and responsive feeding and pick up successful strategies to engage in interprofessional practice as a home-based, private practice, or school-based clinician. In that case, this is the episode for you.

  • Guest: Lisa Bowers, PhD, CCC-SLP

    In this episode, Michelle is joined by the charismatic Lisa Bowers, PhD CCC-SLP, Chair of the Council of Academic Programs in Communication Sciences and Disorder's (CAPCSD) IPE/IPP committee, and Director of the Service Learning Initiative at the University of Arkansas. Lisa, a passionate advocate for the speech-language pathologist working to improve children’s language and literacy abilities, spends this power hour sharing some of her favorite resources and imparting pearls of wisdom! So, whether you are a tried and true SLP and want to improve your interprofessional education and practice within the public schools for your students struggling with reading or are still in your clinical fellow and not sure where to begin when it comes to speech-sound disorders and literacy, this episode has you covered.

  • Guest: Marsha Dunn Klein, OTR/L, MEd, FAOTA - In this episode, Michelle is joined by Marsha, founder of the “Get Permission Institute,” for part one of a four-part miniseries on Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD)! To kick off the miniseries, Marsha discusses the evidence-based PFD shifts that have occurred over the last few years… shifts that come from listening to and elevating neurodivergent voices. Gone are the days of forcing a child to eat during therapy or relying upon external reinforcement to “take a bite.” The shift is towards respecting individual autonomy, encouraging diversity in thought about what constitutes a safe and healthy mealtime routine and a well-balanced meal...and the list goes on! Marsha quoted Maya Angelo, “Once you know better, you do better,” she hopes this episode will inspire today’s treating PFD clinicians to embrace the shift.