The ABA Speech Podcast- Easy Strategies for Speech Therapists, BCBAs, and RBTs

I still remember what it felt like to walk into a therapy session and have no idea how to move forward. Early in my career, I was working with autistic learners with complex communication and behavioral needs, and I quickly realized graduate school had not prepared me for everything I was seeing. I wanted to help, but I didn’t always have practical strategies I could use when a learner struggled to attend, engage, or communicate. That experience sent me searching for better answers and ultimately shaped the way I practice today. More than 20 years later, I want clinicians to have something I desperately needed back then: support, practical education, and a community that helps you feel confident about what to do next. That’s why I created the ABA Speech Connection. It brings speech therapists, BCBAs, and RBTs together to learn evidence-based strategies, earn CEUs, collaborate, and immediately apply what they’re learning with autistic students. From AAC and functional communication to clinical roundtables and live learning, everything is designed to make professional development practical and useful. You don’t have to spend hours searching for your next CEU or wonder whether you’re doing enough. You can have a place to learn, ask questions, and keep growing alongside professionals who care about helping every student communicate with the world. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why my early clinical experiences shaped the ABA Speech Connection How ongoing education can build confidence and strengthen clinical practice Practical learning around AAC, communication, and evidence-based intervention How the Connection supports individuals and professional teams Mentioned In This Episode: Say It With Me by Rose Griffin AAC Mastery for SLPs and BCBAs Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

What happens when collaboration is built into a practice from the very beginning? The results can be powerful for clinicians, families, and most importantly, the children we serve. I love hearing how different professionals find their path, and Colleen Lama's story is such a great reminder that unexpected career moments can lead to something even better. As both a speech-language pathologist and BCBA, she shares how becoming dual certified helped her better support autistic learners and inspired her to create a practice where speech therapy, occupational therapy, and ABA truly work together. We also talk about the realities of growing a multidisciplinary practice, from navigating insurance challenges to building a team that values collaboration and family-centered care. If you've ever wondered what it looks like to provide coordinated services under one roof, I think you'll find plenty of practical insights and encouragement here. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why Colleen became both an SLP and BCBA, and how that shaped her career The benefits of offering speech, OT, and ABA in one collaborative practice Challenges that come with multidisciplinary care and how strong communication keeps teams aligned How the ABA Speech Connection supports ongoing learning for SLPs, BCBAs, and RBTs Mentioned In This Episode: Lama Pediatric Therapy Selective Mutism, Anxiety and Communication AAC Mastery for SLPs and BCBAs Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Comparing vocabulary instruction for children who use AAC is not a one size fits all decision, and that is exactly what makes this conversation so valuable. Vocabulary intervention is one of the topics I get asked about most often, and there is still so much to learn about the best ways to support children who use AAC. I’m joined by Dr. Courtney Trevino to unpack her research comparing explicit vocabulary instruction with more naturalistic, incidental teaching. We explore what each approach looks like in practice, how vocabulary was selected for the study, and what the findings can teach us as clinicians. One strategy that really stood out to me was navigation description, talking out loud through the path you take to find a word on an AAC system. It is such a practical way to support learning, while also helping parents, teachers, RBTs, and other team members become more confident using AAC. I walked away thinking differently about how I teach vocabulary, and I think you will too. If you are looking for practical, research-backed ideas that you can start using right away, this conversation is full of them. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why explicit vocabulary instruction led to stronger word learning outcomes How navigation description can support both AAC users and communication partners Choosing vocabulary for early AAC learners, including developmental versus core words Practical ways to blend structured teaching into everyday therapy Mentioned In This Episode: Comparing Two Vocabulary Interventions for Children Who Use Augmentative and Alternative Communication Dr. Courtney Trevino AAC Mastery for SLPs and BCBAs Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Building a business that reflects your values takes more than hard work. It takes intention, clear systems, and a vision that keeps you grounded when growth starts to feel overwhelming. Stephen Smith and I explore what it really takes to build an ethical, sustainable ABA practice without losing sight of why you started in the first place. We talk about the importance of defining your vision early, especially if you're starting a business with a partner, and why having the right legal and financial support can save you from major headaches down the road. We also dive into delegation, something every business owner struggles with at some point. Letting go of tasks can feel uncomfortable, but creating systems, documenting processes, and trusting your team are essential if you want to avoid burnout and create a business that can grow beyond you. I also share a few of the books and tools that have helped me think differently about leadership, delegation, and protecting my own creativity as a business owner. Whether you're just getting started or looking to strengthen an established practice, I think you'll walk away with practical ideas you can put into action right away. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why every clinic owner needs a clear vision before focusing on growth Business systems, delegation, and avoiding burnout The legal and financial foundations every practice should have Practical books, tools, and strategies for building a sustainable business Mentioned In This Episode: Grab Say it With Me The ABA Business Leader's Guide by Stephen Smith 3 Pie Squared Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

If you've ever wondered whether constant stress is simply part of being a helping professional, this conversation is for you. Burnout isn't a badge of honor, and crying in your car or pushing through physical symptoms shouldn't be considered normal. I’m joined by Tiffany N. Arango to explore what clinician wellness really looks like and why so many dedicated professionals end up running on empty. Tiffany shares her own experience of reaching severe burnout while working in what she believed was her dream job, and how that experience changed the direction of her career. We talk about the workplace red flags that are easy to overlook, why so many of us normalize unhealthy environments, and how psychological flexibility can help us respond with intention instead of simply surviving each day. We also explore the role leaders play in creating healthy workplace cultures and why genuine care for employees should never be viewed as a weakness. Whether you're a speech therapist, BCBA, RBT, or another helping professional, I hope this conversation reminds you that your well-being matters just as much as the people you serve. If you're feeling overwhelmed, please know you don't have to navigate it alone. Reach out, find your community, and seek support. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Red flags that can signal workplace burnout How psychological flexibility supports clinician well-being Practical ways leaders can create healthier workplace cultures Why caring for yourself is essential to caring for others Mentioned In This Episode: Grab Say it With Me The Behavior Station Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

The best outcomes happen when we stop working in silos and start learning from each other. I recently had the chance to be a guest on Dr. Selena J. Layden's podcast, and I knew I wanted to share our conversation with you because it highlights something I'm deeply passionate about, meaningful collaboration between speech-language pathologists and BCBAs. When we recognize each other's expertise and work together, we create better outcomes for the students we serve. We talked about my journey from school-based speech therapy into the world of ABA, how those experiences shaped ABA Speech, and why I believe communication and behavior support are strongest when they are aligned. We also explored common misconceptions between our professions, practical ways to build trust with colleagues, and why curiosity and open communication can go a long way. One of my favorite parts of our discussion was sharing what I wish every school-based BCBA understood about speech-language pathology. Our training is incredibly broad, and many of us continue developing our expertise long after graduate school. The same is true for BCBAs, which is why ongoing learning and collaboration matter so much. Whether you're an SLP, BCBA, educator, or part of an interdisciplinary team, I hope this conversation encourages you to build stronger partnerships that help every student communicate and thrive. #speechtherapy #autism What’s Inside: Why speech therapy and ABA are stronger together Simple ways to build meaningful collaboration in school settings What I wish every school-based BCBA knew about speech-language pathology How mutual respect and ongoing learning improve student outcomes Mentioned In This Episode: Grab Say it With Me The Behavior Education Connection Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

What happens when two SLPs and BCBAs get together to tackle the biggest conversations in our fields? You get an honest discussion about collaboration, research, and keeping students at the center of every decision. Today, we're flipping the script and I'm answering some of the questions I hear most often about speech therapy and ABA, from choosing AAC vocabulary to navigating current topics like gestalt language processing, prompting, and aided language modeling. I share why I believe we have to move beyond an "all or nothing" mindset and focus on what the research tells us while making thoughtful, ethical decisions for each individual learner. Dr. Giles and I also dig into functional communication, response forms, and why collecting meaningful data should guide every intervention we use. My hope is that these conversations help bridge the gap between disciplines so we can spend less time debating and more time helping our students communicate with confidence. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why collaboration between SLPs and BCBAs leads to better outcomes for learners How I think about AAC vocabulary, response forms, and functional communication My perspective on gestalt language processing, prompting, and current research Why data driven decision making should shape every communication intervention Mentioned In This Episode: Grab Say it With Me Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Every student deserves a way to communicate with the world, and that belief has guided my work from the very beginning. Today, I’m sharing something incredibly special, the story behind my new book, Say It With Me: Naturalistic Tools to Spark Speech and Social Engagement. This is the resource I wish I had when I first started working with autistic learners who were not yet speaking, struggled to engage in therapy, or faced behavioral barriers that made learning more challenging. I take you behind the scenes of my journey, from my early days at the Cleveland Clinic Autism Center to the lessons that shaped the compassionate, collaborative approach I use today. I also walk through the practical strategies featured in the book, including assessment, joint attention, play-based learning, AAC, social engagement, group therapy, behavior supports, and meaningful goal writing. My goal has always been to make research approachable and actionable so you can feel confident putting these ideas into practice right away. Whether you're a speech-language pathologist, BCBA, educator, or parent, I hope this conversation leaves you feeling encouraged and equipped with new ways to support learners who are often the hardest to reach. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Building the foundation for communication through engagement, play, and joint attention Practical strategies for AAC, language development, and meaningful generalization Supporting learners with behavioral barriers through collaborative care Writing effective goals and creating stronger IEP and team meetings Mentioned In This Episode: Grab Say it With Me Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Some kids are picky eaters, but when does it become something more? Feeding challenges can feel overwhelming for families, especially when mealtimes become stressful, food choices become extremely limited, or concerns about nutrition start to grow. That's why I was excited to welcome feeding specialist Margaryta Kuzmin to the podcast. Together, we unpacked the difference between typical picky eating and pediatric feeding disorders, and why early support can make such a meaningful difference. Margaryta shares the developmental reasons many children go through selective eating phases, along with important red flags that may signal a deeper concern. We also explore why feeding difficulties are rarely about food alone. Medical, nutritional, motor, sensory, and social factors can all play a role. I especially loved our discussion about how providers can approach these conversations with families in a supportive, compassionate way. Whether you're a speech-language pathologist, BCBA, educator, or parent, this conversation highlights the power of collaboration and why feeding concerns deserve attention early on. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: The difference between picky eating and pediatric feeding disorders Common feeding red flags that professionals and parents should watch for Why medical, nutritional, sensory, and motor factors all matter The professionals who make up a strong feeding team and how they work together Mentioned In This Episode: Feeding Matters Kuzmin SLP Margaryta Kuzmin on Instagram Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Child-led therapy doesn’t mean lowering expectations. It means meeting children where they are and building meaningful learning opportunities from what matters most to them. I’m joined by Dr. Katherine Pickard, Dr. Rachel Yosick, and Dr. Tracy Argueta from the Marcus Autism Center to explore how child-led Applied Behavior Analysis is shaping the future of autism intervention. We unpack Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs), what they are, how they differ from more traditional ABA approaches, and why they continue to gain momentum in both research and practice. One of my favorite parts of this conversation is the discussion around “de-implementation,” the idea that sometimes improving our practice requires letting go of strategies that no longer serve children and families as effectively. We also talk about common misconceptions around child-led therapy, how to balance NDBI and structured teaching, and practical ways clinicians can begin incorporating more naturalistic, developmentally appropriate strategies into their sessions. If you've ever wondered whether child-led approaches are "ABA enough" or how to start making meaningful changes in your own practice, this conversation offers thoughtful, research-based guidance that is both encouraging and actionable. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: What NDBIs are and why they are rooted in ABA The role of child-led learning in effective intervention Why some traditional practices may need to be reduced or reconsidered Practical ways clinicians can begin using more naturalistic strategies Mentioned In This Episode: Marcus Autism Center Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

AAC can feel overwhelming for clinicians, but it does not have to stay that way. I’m joined by Valerie Zimmerman from Mindcolor Autism to talk about what happens when BCBAs and SLPs come together to better support autistic learners who use AAC. Valerie shares how her team has prioritized AAC training across their organization, even though many clinicians receive little to no formal instruction in this area. We dig into the real questions providers are asking, from ethical considerations around programming devices to understanding the role of collaboration in helping students communicate more effectively. One of my favorite parts of this conversation is hearing how Mindcolor Autism created a clinical consultation model that gives staff ongoing support when they encounter challenging cases or communication questions. I love seeing organizations build systems that help clinicians feel less alone and more confident in their work. We also talk about the importance of practical, immediately applicable training. Whether you are a BCBA, SLP, RBT, or parent, this conversation highlights how much growth can happen when teams learn together and stay curious about communication. AAC is not just about devices, it is about giving students meaningful ways to connect with the world around them. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why AAC training is essential for both BCBAs and SLPs Common misconceptions about supporting students who use AAC How Mindcolor Autism built a clinical consultation support model Practical ways teams can collaborate around communication goals Mentioned In This Episode: Mindcolor Autism AAC Mastery for SLPs and BCBAs All About AAC Bundle Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Have you ever looked at an AAC device and thought, “Where do I even start?” I’ve been there too, and I know how overwhelming it can feel. For years, I supported students using AAC while secretly feeling unsure of myself behind the scenes. I could teach communication strategies all day long, but when it came to navigating new systems and vocabulary sets, I remember leaving work feeling defeated and questioning whether I was truly helping my students. That experience completely changed the way I approach AAC today. I’m sharing the story behind our brand-new course, AAC Mastery for SLPs and BCBAs, and why I created it for professionals who want practical, real-world support with AAC instead of more theory that never translates into therapy sessions. This course brings together incredible AAC experts to talk about assessment, motor planning, collaboration, bilingual learners, switch access, parent support, and so much more. My goal is simple. I want you to feel confident supporting every AAC user on your caseload. Whether you’re brand new to AAC or you’ve been in the field for years, I want you to walk away with strategies you can actually use right away. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why motor planning matters more than you think AAC assessment tips and funding guidance Collaboration strategies for SLPs and BCBAs Real case studies and practical AAC problem-solving Mentioned In This Episode: AAC Mastery for SLPs and BCBAs Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

What if our learners could practice success before they ever step into the real moment? I’m bringing you a conversation that completely reframed the way I think about video modeling, independence, and skill building. We’re talking all about self-video modeling and how technology is creating more personalized, neurodiversity-affirming ways to support communication, daily living skills, and behavior regulation. Dr. Rachel Khasky-Levy and Rinat Hitelman share how their work with The Babel Group and Wide Therapy is helping clinicians bridge the gap between therapy and real-world implementation. What stood out to me most was the idea of helping learners visualize themselves already succeeding. Whether it’s requesting a favorite snack, transitioning between activities, completing vocational tasks, or building communication skills, this approach focuses on possibility and confidence instead of correction. I also loved hearing how self-video modeling can support learners who may not yet be able to demonstrate a skill independently in real life. By creating personalized visual rehearsals, clinicians and families can give learners repeated exposure to success in a calm, supportive way that feels meaningful and functional. This conversation reminded me why I’ve always loved using video modeling in therapy. It’s practical, engaging, and incredibly empowering for our students across ages and settings. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: How self-video modeling differs from traditional video modeling Ways to target communication, vocational, and daily living skills Using visualization to reduce challenging behaviors Why personalized tech tools can increase independence and confidence Mentioned In This Episode: The Babel Group Wide Therapy Voiceitt Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

What really helps speech sound practice stick once kids leave the therapy room? I’m joined by Shail Silver, founder of SpeechLP and parent to a child receiving speech therapy services, for a thoughtful conversation about carryover, motivation, and how technology can support meaningful speech sound practice at home. As a school-based SLP, this topic is especially important to me because we know progress doesn’t just happen during therapy sessions. The real growth comes from consistent practice in everyday environments. Shail shares how his family’s experience inspired the creation of SpeechLP, an AI-powered app designed to make articulation practice more engaging and less stressful for both parents and clinicians. We talk about the challenge of getting enough repetitions for true generalization, why carryover can be so difficult for students, and how gamified practice can help keep learners motivated. I also loved hearing how practicing SLPs are actively helping shape the platform so it stays practical and clinically relevant. There’s so much potential in tools that support families, reduce clinician workload, and help students build confidence with communication in a fun and functional way. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why carryover matters so much for speech sound progress How SpeechLP uses AI to support articulation practice Ways clinicians can use technology to support home practice The importance of making speech practice motivating for kids Mentioned In This Episode: SpeechLP ParagraphAI Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Sometimes collaboration feels seamless, and other times it leaves you questioning everything. That contrast came up in such a real way as I talked with Jenny Argueta, and it’s something so many of us have experienced but don’t always say out loud. She shared how working with one collaborative SLP felt energizing, while another interaction left her feeling small and shut out. That moment stuck with her and ultimately shaped her decision to become dually certified so she could be part of the solution. We unpack the tension that can exist between SLPs and BCBAs and how those challenges often stem from past experiences, misunderstandings, or lack of exposure to each other’s work. I always come back to the importance of listening. When we take the time to understand someone’s perspective instead of reacting, we open the door to better collaboration. We also talk about AAC and the gaps in training that so many providers face. Jenny shares honestly about how overwhelming AAC can feel, even as an SLP, and why ongoing learning is so important. At the end of the day, our goal is the same. We want to support meaningful communication and real progress for our students. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Real examples of collaboration going well and breaking down Where SLP and BCBA tensions come from Practical ways to build trust and shared understanding Why AAC training is essential for all providers Mentioned In This Episode: Mirific LLC Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

What if your documentation could protect your clinic instead of putting it at risk? I’m joined by Aidan Kelly from Brellium to talk about one of the biggest stressors for growing clinics, documentation quality and compliance. As organizations scale, it becomes nearly impossible to manually track every note, and small gaps can turn into major audit risks. Aidan shares how outdated systems and manual reviews create blind spots, and how AI can bring real-time visibility into documentation practices. We also talk about the real financial impact of audits and clawbacks, and why strong compliance infrastructure is essential if you want to grow sustainably. I love how Brellium works behind the scenes, supporting clinicians without adding extra work, while giving leaders actionable insights to improve quality across their teams. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why manual chart reviews fail as clinics grow Common documentation gaps that trigger audit risk How AI can support compliance and improve quality Mentioned In This Episode: Brellium Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Strong therapy starts with strong support, and that begins with the parent. I’m joined by Khaliah Moody, and this conversation really stayed with me. We talk about what it truly looks like to support families in a meaningful way, especially when life outside of sessions includes real challenges like poverty, housing instability, and stress. Khaliah shares how her background in social work shaped the way she leads her clinic and supports both clients and staff. One of the biggest takeaways is that therapy cannot thrive if the parent is overwhelmed and unsupported. We have to meet families where they are, build real relationships, and focus on connection before intervention. We also get into staff retention, building a positive team culture, and how community partnerships can extend impact far beyond traditional services. This is a powerful reminder that compassionate care is both clinical and human. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: Why parent support is the foundation of effective therapy How to build trust and connection with families Creative ways to support and retain your team Mentioned In This Episode: Steady Strides Behavior Solutions Khaliah Moody on LinkedIn Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Everything made sense once I saw the full picture. Receiving a later-in-life ADHD diagnosis can be both validating and eye-opening, and that’s exactly what we explore in this conversation. As I talk with Lindsay, I’m struck by how her story reflects something I see often, high-achieving, capable individuals who have been compensating and masking for years without realizing why things felt harder behind the scenes. We talk through what it looked like for her to thrive in a fast-paced Wall Street environment while quietly navigating challenges with time management, comprehension, and testing. Her diagnosis came after her children were identified as neurodivergent, which is such a common pathway for families. I also love how openly she shares the realities of parenting two neurodivergent children, from early sensory challenges to finding the right supports and building a strong community. We get into practical strategies that truly make a difference, including sleep, nutrition, exercise, and structure. This conversation is a powerful reminder that ADHD can be a strength, and that understanding your brain can unlock better support, connection, and self-advocacy. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: What a late ADHD diagnosis can reveal about your past Parenting neurodivergent children and finding the right supports Practical strategies that support regulation and success The role of masking, self-advocacy, and community Mentioned In This Episode: Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Raising children with profound special needs means stepping into truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. I had such a meaningful conversation with Sarah Kernion about what it really looks like to raise children with profound, nonspeaking autism, and how that reality often differs from the public narrative. Sarah shares her journey as a mom, from those early intuitive concerns to navigating diagnosis, therapy, and building a truly collaborative team. We talk openly about the emotional weight families carry and why honoring that lived experience matters. Sarah brings such a powerful perspective on communication, reminding us that AAC enhances connection and that growth is not always linear. One of my favorite takeaways is how she reframes communication, not as a single outcome, but as a shared process between child, caregiver, and provider. We also dive into what makes a great team. The biggest shift is moving away from hierarchy and toward true collaboration, where parents feel heard and valued. Sarah’s work through Inchstones is all about helping families feel seen, supported, and empowered in that journey. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: The gap between the public autism narrative and real family life Why AAC is a powerful tool for connection and growth How to build collaborative, parent-centered therapy teams Mentioned In This Episode: Inchstones Inchstones on Instagram Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home

Ever feel intimidated by AAC or unsure how AI fits into your clinical work? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nerissa Hall and Dr. Michelle Boisvert to talk about two topics that can feel overwhelming but are full of possibility. We explore how AAC is not about waiting for prerequisites, but about giving individuals access to meaningful, independent communication. I share my own experience of feeling intimidated at first, and we break down simple, practical ways to get started that actually feel doable and even fun. We also dive into AI in speech pathology, and this conversation gave me so much clarity. We talk about how AI can help us “offload” tasks like creating materials, while still keeping our clinical judgment front and center. We discuss where AI fits, where it doesn’t, and how to use it ethically and thoughtfully in your everyday work. If you’ve been curious but hesitant, this episode will help you take that first step with confidence. #autism #speechtherapy What’s Inside: AAC misconceptions and mindset shifts that support autonomy Easy, practical ways to begin AAC implementation How AI can support clinicians without replacing expertise Ethical considerations and simple ways to start using AI Mentioned In This Episode: Easy Report Pro Tate Behavioral AAC Communicare Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home