Explore every episode of the podcast Brainstorms: Functional Neurorehab for SLPs

Guest: Ashley Muñoz López, MBA, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S - In this episode, Renee is joined by Ashley to discuss Disorders of Consciousness. Ashley co-authors the peer-reviewed journal article “A Conscious Approach to Decannulation: Clinical Application of a One-Way Speaking Valve With Disorders of Consciousness.” Join Renee and Ashley as they discuss Disorders of Consciousness (DoC), including coma, vegetative state, and minimally conscious state, as well as assessment and treatment options for these patients. These complex conditions need both expert insight and practical advice to promote recovery. Join us to embark on a topic unfamiliar to many CSD professionals.

Guest: Julie Sullivan, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Julie, the Covid Recovery Center program manager in Boston, MA. Learn what the journey of battling long covid entails, including expert insights, practical advice for navigating patients' challenges, and understanding the recovery process. Join Renee and Julie for an hour of discovery and exploration of research initiatives.

Guest: Patrick Flanigan, Retired Chief EOD Technician, Purple Heart Recipient - In this episode, Renee is joined by Patrick, a retired Navy veteran and TBI survivor. In 2011, Renee and Pat's paths crossed, creating a unique bond. Renee's role as Pat's speech-language pathologist during a pivotal two-month inpatient rehabilitation stay left a lasting impression. Pat's recollection of the distinct functional treatment activities stands out. In 2016, Renee and Pat recorded an educational video for the independent project Outside My Wire. Since then, Pat has continued to recover from the life-changing impacts of the TBI he sustained in 2011. Join Renee and Pat to discover the journey of TBI recovery from the patient's perspective. Trauma Warning: As a trauma-informed care provider, it's important to let you know that this episode may contain subject matter that triggers some listeners. Incidents of traumatic events, injuries, and mental health issues will be discussed. Please listen with caution if these situations are a trauma or mental health concern. While our guest continues to recover from these events, we want to inform you that these events may be difficult to listen to.

Guest: Lisa Milliken, MA, CCC-SLP, FNAP, CDP, RAC- CT, CADDCT - In this episode, Renee is joined by Lisa to discuss the impacts of polypharmacy and explore the pathophysiological changes behind drug-induced cognitive impairment, which sheds light on the complexities of this condition. Determining when Post-operative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD) poses a significant risk is crucial for patient care and recovery, as is understanding how aging changes impact adverse medication reactions. In this episode, join Renee and Lisa as we delve into these topics to enhance our understanding and awareness of cognitive health in medical contexts.

Guest: Nicole DePalma, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Nicole to discuss mobile FEES. Mobile FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is powerful in dysphagia assessment. It improves patients' access to care by providing another option for an instrumental swallowing exam. This episode will delve into what mobile FEES can and cannot provide. Join Renee and Nicole as they share insights on gaining competency in FEES. Let's explore how collaboration can enhance patient outcomes in this crucial area of healthcare.

Guest: Alexandria Wynter Russell, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by, Alexandria to discuss effective treatment plans for the adult patient. In the dynamic field of speech-language pathology, catering treatment plans to individual patient needs is paramount. Let's explore how incorporating patient-centered tasks and goals can elevate the effectiveness of therapy. Join Renee and Alex as we delve into practical strategies to empower SLPs and patients toward improved communication and neurological function.

Trauma Warning: As a trauma-informed care provider, it's important to let you know that this episode may contain subject matter that triggers some listeners. Incidents of traumatic events, injuries, and mental health issues will be discussed. Please listen cautiously if these situations are a trauma or mental health concern. Guest: Carly DeLaurier-Flanigan - In this episode, Renee is joined by Carly who is the spouse and long-term caregiver for her husband, Patrick Flanigan, who has had multiple TBIs. The most recent was in 2011, and it changed the course of both of their lives. The moment the TBI occurred was a pivotal and catastrophic flip of everything they had known. Carly had to navigate everything from loss of income to coverage of therapy costs associated with Patrick's recovery. Carly remains Patrick's biggest advocate, all while working and volunteering with her two Belgian Malinois search and recovery dogs. Join Renee and Carly to unravel the challenges of long-term caregiving and empower yourself with strategies to educate your patients and caregivers.

Guest: Casey Lewis, MS CCC-SLP, CNT, NTMTC - Renee is joined by Casey Lewis, who will discuss her growth as the owner of TexScope, a mobile endoscopy company in Texas, while continuing to nurture her relationships as a hospital employee. Casey will also review advocacy strategies regarding salary negotiation. Finally, Casey will discuss the importance of being intentional in personal and professional relationships, as both are necessary for happiness and career success. Join Renee and Casey for an hour packed with tangible career tools.

Guest: Rene Utianski, PhD., CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Rene Utianski to discuss functional speech disorders. Dr. Utianski’s research focuses on defining these disorders, effective treatment to address them, and cough and related disorders. SLPs are an integral part of the treatment team for these disorders. Join Renee and Rene to learn more about what they are, how we treat them, and how you can get more information to support your practice.

Guest: Jerrold Jackson, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Jerrold Jackson to discuss advocacy, SLPAs, and ways we, as professionals, can incorporate SLPAs into our practice. Jerrold’s experiences with mentorship, supervision, and interprofessional collaboration are integral to the conversation. These topics help us uncover why we continue practicing in the Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences. Join Renee and Jerrold to learn more about these topics in an hour packed with ideas to spark your innovative practice.

Guest: Yvette Hyter, PhD, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by trauma-informed care specialist Dr.Yvette Hyter to discuss how CSD professionals can incorporate trauma-informed practices, why it matters, how trauma-informed practices fit into culturally responsive practice, and how CSD students can be involved in trauma-informed practices. Join us for an informed hour packed with immediate actionable items for your CSD practice.

Guest: Jennifer Ruckner, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Jennifer Ruckner, the owner of Tots to Teens Therapy. They will discuss essential professional needs for starting a private practice, business structures, and how to determine if private practice is right for you. Join Renee and Jennifer for a discussion that helps define some important considerations for private practice success—demystified!

Guest: Jaimie Anderson, MS, CCC-SLP, BC-ANCDS - In this episode, Renee and Jaimie discuss functional dysphagia. Functional dysphagia occurs when individuals experience difficulty swallowing despite no structural abnormalities. It can significantly affect quality of life and impact daily life. Join Renee and Jaimie as they explore causes, symptoms, evaluation, and treatment options for functional dysphagia and delve into the complexities of the condition.

Guest: Hillary Cooper, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Hillary joins Renee to discuss the role of state associations and why non-profit status matters. They explore different classifications of non-profits, involvement in state associations, and how it affects local issues. These are just some of the topics Renee and Hillary will discuss. If this discussion can help you launch the non-profit you have been dreaming of, our goal is met.

Guest: Walt Fritz, PT - In this episode, Renee is joined by Walt to discuss manual therapy and how it applies to SLP practice. Walt brings his unique perspective and skill set to the forefront of this conversation, including evidence-based practice and shared decision-making. Join Renee and Walt for an hour packed with innovative concepts for the ever-evolving SLP practice repertoire.

Guest: Fred Stal, MS CCC-SLP, CBIS - In this episode, Renee is joined by Fred to discuss how Head and neck cancer patients face unique challenges in their assessment and treatment journey. Late effects of radiation and lymphedema can further complicate their recovery. This episode will explore the assessment, treatment, and impact of late effects on these patients. Let's explore the complexities and strategies to navigate these issues effectively. Join Renee and Fred for this hour of research-based clinical practice and the role of the SLP with this population.

Guest: Eric Blicker, SLP.D, CCC-SLP, BCS-S - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Blicker for a productive discussion about the relationship between laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and dysphagia. Eric provides evidence-based research to support the interplay between these disease processes and findings SLPs may see on FEES. Join Renee and Eric for a knowledge-filled, research-based discussion.

Guest: John Ashford, PhD, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Ashford to discuss aspiration, pneumonia, and factors associated with both. Join us for a knowledge-packed hour and a deeper dive into laryngeal aspiration.

Guest: Nikita Pangarkar, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Nikita for a discussion about culturally sensitive care for immigrant clients. What considerations should we, as SLPs, consider when evaluating and treating across the lifespan? How can we empower ourselves to provide quality care that demonstrates cultural humility? Join Renee and Nikita for a deep dive into serving the immigrant client community.

Guest: Jill Adlin, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Jill to discuss alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) for medically complex patients/clients across the lifespan. Renee and Jill both share a passion for communication as a basic human right and seek to decrease the abandonment of AAC devices. As Jill says, join us to “GEEK OUT ABOUT AAC.”

Guest: Laura Purcell Verdun, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Laura for a deep dive into atypical Parkinsonism. Identification and treatment considerations, as well as why it matters, will be explored. How does the differential diagnosis impact early treatment, and how can SLPs provide evidence-based and meaningful treatment? Identify immediate practices you can implement for rehabilitating this unique diagnosis.

Guests: Jackie Rodriguez, MS, CCC-SLP & Fe Gonzalez Murray, EdD, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Jackie and Dr. Murray as we discuss growing up and working as Spanish/English bilinguals. The discussion is an honest conversation about what it's like to be a bilingual practitioner, yet not feeling bilingual enough to fit in any space. Through the conversation, the group will explore topics such as linguistic competency, masking, imposter syndrome, considerations for recruiting and training bilingual SLPs and training, encouraging, and supporting current practitioners.

Guest: Ed Bice, MEd., CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Ed Bice to discuss standards of care for dysphagia treatment. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion, including ethics, informed consent, and competence. Learn how all those components are intertwined and how to implement them into your practice immediately.

Guest: Pamela Rowe, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Pamela to discuss social determinants of mental health and their relation to speech-language pathology. Social determinants of mental health are conditions in the environments in which people are born, live, work, and age that impact a wide range of health, functioning, and quality of life outcomes and the risks associated with these domains. Social determinants of mental health can affect the development and treatment of communication and swallowing disorders. Understanding and addressing these social determinants can improve mental health outcomes as well as empower SLPs to design and implement more holistic treatment approaches. Join Renee and Pamela for an hour of impactful discussion.

Guest: Treasyri Williams Wood, SLPD, CCC-SLP/L - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Treasyri Williams Wood to discuss the many facets of aphasia. Whether SLPs are involved in the rehabilitation of the acute phase of the chronic phase of aphasia, what does our EBP treatment look like? What techniques and strategies are we utilizing across the continuum of care? How can we implement or even create a community-based support group to address the needs of our patients with aphasia? Join Renee and Treasyri as they explore the expansive world of aphasia care.

Guest: Shari Robertson, PhD, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Shari Robertson to discuss burnout and resilience-building strategies. Shari teaches us how to identify signs and symptoms of burnout in ourselves and in others. She also identifies research-based strategies to mitigate both stress and burnout. Join Renee and Shari for a “new year, new you” style podcast designed to inspire new ways to handle our professional challenges.

Guest: Megan Battles Parsons, PhD, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Megan Battles Parsons to discuss a framework for structuring clinical practicums that empowers students to increase knowledge and active participation in their education. How can one devise a mentor/mentee educational program? What key components have proven successful in this type of program? Join Renee and Megan as we discuss ways SLPs can implement educational strategies in other clinical roles, including patient education.

In this episode, Renee reviews two very different aphasia case studies: Case study 1: a 40-year-old patient who had a stroke post chemo/radiation for stage 4 lung cancer with global aphasia. Case Study 2: a 53-year-old patient who had a stroke after foot surgery 3 years ago and was in SNF when the world shut down. She had no therapy for a YEAR, and she could not leave the SNF. Once home, she used a wheelchair and had significant expressive and receptive language deficits due to aphasia. Join Renee as she reviews how co-morbidities impact recovery, access to medical care and therapy in the acute phase of stroke, the importance of stroke education, and both effective and ineffective therapeutic interventions.

Guest: Brooke Beilman, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Brooke to discuss journeys with the head and neck cancer population. Brooke will review the speech pathologist's role in HNC, including a review of the scope of practice and understanding of the importance of prophylactic care. Renee and Brooke will discuss identifying the root etiology of swallow dysfunction and the role lymphatics play in acute and chronic swallow dysfunction. A review of relevant historical, current, and future research is included, as well as ways we, as SLPs, can advocate for our patients. Join Renee and Brooke for an hour of fast-paced information and research into the “unchartered waters.”

Guest: Stephanie Sweigart, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Stephanie to discuss compassionate communication strategies. Whether you are utilizing these strategies in therapy, with caregivers or colleagues and multi-disciplinary teams, we can build the skills needed to enhance collaboration and innovation. What does the 4-step pathway entail? How can we, as SLPs, remain non-reactive when tough situations or conversations occur? Join Renee and Stephanie for an interactive and empowering delve into compassionate communication!

Guest: Jackie Rodriguez, MS, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Jackie to discuss cultural considerations in a variety of SLP treatments. Renee and Jackie will also discuss dialectal density and how it impacts the assessment of patients with suspected motor speech disorder. Being aware of how to navigate a patient’s SDOH and how that impacts patient education and treatment is an important component of an ethical-based treatment model. Join Renee and Jackie for an information-packed hour of learning and resources.

Guest: Terresa Ross, MS, CCC-SLP -In this episode, Renee is joined by Terresa to discuss ethics, shared decision-making, and informed consent when evaluating and treating patients with dysphagia. We will also discuss advocacy for patient choice in relation to patients/caregivers and the medical team. Join Renee and Terresa as they discuss practical applications of these concepts with case studies.

Guest: George Barnes, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-S - In this episode, Renee is joined by George to discuss dysphagia care and how SLPs can improve clinical decision-making. How do we, as SLPs, make decisions? Are we providing all options to patients or simply making a “solid” recommendation? We will discuss utilizing research-based practices to reduce mistakes while dispelling some common practices and myths surrounding dysphagia care. We will also use these strategies to review case studies, providing real-time takeaways for the practicing clinician.

Guest: Adria Thompson, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Adria to discuss how we, as SLPs provide dementia care to patients/clients and how we provide support to caregivers. We explore everything from communication strategies to mealtime interventions and many things in between. Both Renee and Adria have a close family member with dementia, so this discussion is near and dear to our hearts. Join us for an inspiring hour of discussion and learning.

Guest: Sonya Floyd, MEd, CCC-SLP - Renee is joined by Sonya to discuss community reintegration, specifically for TBI survivors. Discover the range of services and support systems designed to help patients return to their daily lives and participate in their communities. This process requires a multidisciplinary approach, including medical and therapeutic support, social support, vocational rehabilitation, community resources, and education and advocacy programs. Join Renee and Sonya as they discuss personalized approaches to community reintegration that encompass the unique needs and goals specific to the TBI survivor.

Guest: Alison Barclift, MSEd, CCC-SLP - One misconception is that once children grow into adults, their needs diminish. For some autistic people, that is true. However, legal and caregiver concerns change and are not widely known outside the autistic community. So, join Renee and Alison, who have worked with autism across the lifespan for 20 years, for this educational and empowering hour for SLPs and families/caregivers of autistic adults.

Guest: PhD, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Natalie F. Douglas, a speech-language pathologist and professor at Central Michigan University. Dr. Douglas’s research focuses on bridging gaps between clinical research and the needs of practicing clinicians, empowering them to provide research-based interventions to their patients/clients. Dr. Douglas joins Renee to review current research initiatives and provide strategies and training for patients, healthcare providers, and caregivers who are navigating communication disorders related to neurological disorders.

Guest: Amy Larocca, MS, CCC-SLP - When you think of Parkinson’s Disease, most people picture Michael J. Fox or Mohammad Ali, but what does Parkinson’s Disease or Parkinsonism look like in the general population? In this episode, Renee is joined by Amy Larocca, MS, CCC-SLP, who works primarily with People with Parkinson’s (PwP) and other neurological disorders. They will discuss how Parkinson’s disease treatment differs from other neurologic etiologies. Join us for a collaborative discussion regarding resources and community support for PwP and their loved ones.

Guest: Linda Meyer, PhD, CCC-SLP - In this inaugural episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Linda Meyer, PhD, CCC-SLP. Dr. Meyer was an instrumental part of the team that advocated for insurance coverage for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) services and devices and AAC training/therapy. We will discuss the historical development of AAC services and devices in our profession with adolescents and adults and the advocacy work done to achieve reimbursement for both devices and services through Medicaid and other insurers in Virginia. This model served as a template for other states. Further, we will discuss the continuing responsibility of SLPs to advocate for ongoing reimbursement as funding sources become more restrictive. Through collaboration, advocacy, and evidence-based practice, DMAS approved coverage for both items. In addition, Dr. Meyer has remained an advocate throughout her career, not only for patients but for issues at the state level.

Guest: Robert (Bob) McKinney, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Robert (Bob) McKinney to discuss all things accent modification. From the origins of accents to treatment techniques SLPs can use tomorrow, consider this a dive into accent modification for the curious SLP. Join Renee and Bob as they discuss SLPs and accent modification.

Guest: Rachael Silveira, MA, CCC-SLP - In this episode, Renee is joined by Rachael Silveira to discuss tracheostomies and ventilators and how to create a team of multidisciplinary professionals to aid in caring for patients with respiratory compromise. Managing patients with tracheostomy and/or ventilator dependency requires an interdisciplinary approach to ensure safety and optimal care. Through continuous monitoring, regular assessments, and nutritional support, SLPs are a crucial component of this team. SLPs are also critical in communication for these patients and the providers of education and support for the caregiving team/families. Effective management of tracheostomy and ventilated patients with compromised respiratory systems requires comprehensive and coordinated care tailored to the patient's individual needs. Join Renee and Rachael for an hour dedicated to this unique population.

Guest: Kristin Koch, AuD. - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dr. Koch to discuss hearing loss and cognitive communication disorders. Numerous studies have identified a link between hearing loss and cognitive decline. Some studies suggest that hearing loss may contribute to cognitive decline and increase the risk of conditions like dementia. Learn how communication science professionals address social isolation, cognitive load, and common pathological pathways linked to hearing loss. By addressing hearing loss, communication science professionals are improving auditory capabilities and promoting overall cognitive health. Early intervention and continued support from SLPs and audiologists can significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline and enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Guest: Courtney Welch, MS, ATC - In this episode, Renee is joined by Courtney to discuss post-concussion syndrome (PCS) and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Concussions, Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS), and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) are terms often heard in the context of sports injuries. But what do they really mean? In this episode, Renee and Courtney demystify the differences between these conditions, shed light on lesser-known facts, and explore the challenges faced by individuals with brain injuries. Join Renee and Courtney to uncover the complexities and discover how healthcare providers can offer support.

Guest: Cheryl Pelletier, MS, SLP, CCC, CLC - In this episode, Renee is joined by Cheryl to discuss dysphagia tools as part of a comprehensive swallowing treatment plan. Feeding and swallowing services encompass a range of assessments and therapeutic interventions aimed at individuals who have dysphagia. These services are critical for individuals with various medical conditions, such as stroke, neurological disorders, head and neck cancers, or age-related changes. From clinical swallowing evaluations to instrumental assessments and other therapeutic interventions, our patients rely on us to bring every “tool” needed to provide a comprehensive and evidence-based dysphagia treatment plan. Traditional dysphagia exercises, rooted in exercise-based practices and physiological needs (determined via an instrumental examination such as FEEs or VFSS), are now being combined with therapeutic devices that measure things like tongue strength and endurance, resistance training neuromuscular electrical stimulation and sensory enhancing devices. These tools and services are provided by trained and qualified SLPs specializing in dysphagia management. The aim is to enhance the patient’s safety, nutrition, and quality of life by restoring or compensating for impaired swallowing function. Join Renee and Cheryl for a unique discussion about developing and using a unique dysphagia tool.

Guest: Erin Forward, MSP, CCC-SLP, CLC, Advanced DIR/Floortime® Provider, TBRI® Trained Practitioner - In this crossover episode, Renee, the host of Brainstorms: Functional Neurorehab for SLPs, and Erin, co-host of First Bite: Fed, Fun, Functional, collaborate to discuss Trauma Informed Care and the impact trauma has on communication, feeding, and learning. Renee and Erin presented a similar course at the ASHA Convention in Boston in 2023. Together, they define the principles of trauma-informed practice, discuss how SLPs learn to recognize signs of trauma in clients, and develop strategies to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. Learn to incorporate techniques promoting resilience and enhancing client/patient outcomes. Join Renee and Erin for an hour that will empower you to apply trauma-informed care into your clinical practice.

Guest: Tracie Bearden, MS, CCC-SLP, CBIST - In this episode, Renee is joined by Tracie to discuss brain injury advocacy. Learn how SLPs can raise awareness, provide education and support, and foster recovery for TBI survivors and their caregivers. Renee and Tracie will discuss practical strategies, state and national organizations for resources, and how you can champion rights for TBI care across the life continuum.

Guest: Dawn Ducca - In this episode, Renee is joined by Dawn, who serves as a volunteer Ambassador for The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. Frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) is a group of brain disorders that primarily impact personality, behavior, and language skills. This combination presents unique challenges for caregivers. Discussion includes medical aspects of the disease, psychological symptoms, and the progression of the disease that wreaks havoc on daily life. Some of the complexities of caregiving include the physical and emotional toll, but combined with coping and self-care strategies, caregivers can learn ways to support their well-being. Join Renee and Dawn for an hour of caregiving techniques and learn the importance of a support network.

Guest: Lynn Reed, MA CCC-SLP, CBIS, MSCS - In this episode, Renee is joined by Lynn to discuss what SLPs need to know about multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Define what pathophysiology of MS involves, including the progression and types of MS. Learn how patient-centered care and quality of life are improved with personalized treatment plans and caregiver involvement. Join Renee and Lynn for a packed hour of treatment options for the patient with MS.

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