“You’re the Expert (Even When You Don’t Feel Like One)”
New setting, new caseload, new title… and suddenly everyone calls you the “expert.”
Bright Conversations
Featured Conversation
SLPA
SLP: caseload management
Advocacy and Special Education Law
In this episode of Bright Conversations, hosts Shontaye Glover Jones and Sarah Bevier sit down with Krystal Ash of K Altman Law, to continue a powerful conversation that began at the July 2025 SLP Summit. Krystal’s course on advocacy and special education law drew overwhelming feedback from participants who wanted even more time to dive into the complexities of how legal frameworks impact our work as SLPs.
All Conversations
Rock the R: Practical Strategies for Tackling the /r/ Sound with Lindsey Hockel
Speech sound expert Lindsey Hockel joins us to break down her favorite tools, techniques, and mindset shifts for teaching the /r/ sound. From biofeedback to self-rating strategies, she offers evidence-based ways to engage students and make meaningful, measurable progress.
Neuroaffirming Learning: Supporting Families & Children with PDA and Beyond
In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye Jones sits down with Marni Kammersell, a neurodivergent researcher, consultant, and advocate who helps families build neuroaffirming learning environments. Drawing from her doctoral research and lived experience, Marni shares insights on how autonomy-supportive practices foster resilience, growth, and well-being for children and families.
Culturally Responsive Assessment of South Asian Languages
SLPs Prabhu Ashwaran and Puja Goel join us to discuss culturally responsive assessment strategies for students who speak South Asian languages. Learn how to honor linguistic diversity and improve outcomes through more inclusive, informed practices. Topics discussed include recommendations for modifying standardized tests and using dynamic assessment, caregiver interviews, and barriers in school-based practice.
Late Diagnosis, Autism Advocacy, and Neuroaffirming Practices
Therapist and advocate Dr. Destiny Huff shares her late-diagnosed journey with autism and ADHD, as well as the duality of being neurodivergent and parenting a neurodivergent child. Dr. Huff discusses navigating the special education system to support neurodivergent learners and the intersection of her personal and professional experience. Finally, Dr. Huff offers insights into how educators and families can advocate and embrace neuroaffirming practices to support diverse learners. *This content satisfies ASHA’s Cultural Competence, Cultural Humility, Culturally Responsive Practice, and/or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (CC/DEI) requirement.
Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
In this insightful episode, Sarah sits down with Christian Hancock to explore a topic that is unfamiliar to many professionals in the field—Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Together, they discuss what FASD is, the challenges individuals with FASD face, and how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and other professionals can provide strength-based support. Christian shares her expertise, experiences, and practical guidance to help providers recognize and respond to FASD in a compassionate and effective way.
Understanding Selective Mutism
Emily Laracy, a school-based speech-language pathologist who specializes in selective mutism, joins us for a powerful and informative conversation that explores what selective mutism is, how it typically develops, and most importantly, how SLPs and other professionals can provide meaningful, evidence-based support.
Level Up! Using Video Games in Speech Therapy
In this engaging episode of Bright Conversations, Sarah sits down with Erik Raj to discuss how Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) can use video games as a legitimate and effective therapy tool. Erik, a well-known advocate for innovative therapy strategies, shares insights on how video games can increase engagement, improve communication, and provide meaningful interactions for clients.
Raising Awareness for CTE and Traumatic Brain Injury with Dr. Kelli Uitenham
In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye sits down with Dr. Kelli Uitenham, a medical Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), to discuss Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and the critical role that SLPs play in raising awareness and supporting affected individuals.
The Power of Relationship-based Therapy with Desiree Rusch
In this heartfelt conversation, Shontaye Glover-Jones is joined by pediatric speech-language pathologist Desiree Rusch to explore the deep value of human connection in therapeutic practice. With over 20 years of experience in early intervention, schools, hospitals, and private settings, Desiree reflects on how intentional relationship-building is the key to long-lasting success in therapy. From practical approaches to play-based therapy to navigating challenging environments with empathy, this episode is a powerful reminder that therapy is not just about techniques—it's about trust.
Supporting Neurodivergent Kids Through Play & Connection
In this insightful episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye Glover Jones welcomes Polina Shkadron, a trauma-certified Speech-Language Pathologist, to explore the power of play, relationships, and brain-based strategies in supporting neurodivergent children.
Turning Passion into a Thriving Business
In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Sarah sits down with two inspiring female entrepreneurs, Meredith Harold and Megan Sutton, to explore how they turned their passion into thriving businesses. They share their journeys from identifying gaps in the Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) field to creating impactful solutions, all while navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Welcome to Bright Conversations!
In this inaugural episode, hosts Sarah Bevier and Shontaye Glover Jones introduce Bright Conversations, a podcast created for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and the broader Special Education (SPED) community. Tune in to hear what inspired the podcast, who it's for, and what listeners can expect in future episodes.
About Bright Conversations
Join us for insightful discussions with industry experts on topics related to speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and special education.
ASHA CEUs Available
Many of our conversations offer ASHA CEUs for continuing education credits.