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First Bite: Fed, Fun, Functional SLP Insights: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S
First Bite is your go-to resource for all things pediatric speech therapy–covering pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders, lactation, AAC, early language acquisition, advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration. Designed to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, the podcast brings functional, evidence-based insights straight to clinicians serving little ones and their caregivers. Whether you’re a student, seasoned practitioner, researcher, or interprofessional partner, First Bite invites you to listen, learn, and grow alongside a supportive community. Gain the confidence to take whatever “first bite” comes next in your clinical practice–one heartfelt and tea-fueled conversation at a time. Hosted by Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP–bestselling author of "Chasing the Swallow: Truth, Science, and Hope for Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Disorders," joyful boy mom, and early intervention specialist–First Bite explores the latest research, clinical strategies, and lived experiences shaping pediatric speech therapy today.
Latest Episodes
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- 4 days ago1h 5m
Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC)
What is the ASLP Interstate Compact and what does it mean for SLPs?Guest: Susan Adams, Esq., CAE, Director of State Legislative & Regulatory Affairs at ASHAEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YoutubeIn this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, welcomes Susan Adams, Esq., CAE, for a timely discussion about the Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact (ASLP-IC) and what it means for speech-language pathologists. Together, they break down how the ASLP Compact works, who is eligible to participate, what privileges it provides, and where implementation currently stands across the United States. If you've been wondering how the compact could affect your clinical practice, this episode will help you understand the opportunities, limitations, and what to watch for next.About the Guest: Susan Adams is the Director for State Legislative and Regulatory Affairs at ASHA. She is responsible for advancing the public policy objectives of ASHA by serving as team lead and policy expert on state legislation and regulations affecting audiologists and speech-language pathologists, related to state licensure including the Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact, and diversity, equity and inclusion issues that affect the ability to practice.Show Notes:Contact Susan on LinkedInASLP-IC WebsiteLove Money: Support ACLU
- 1 weeks ago1h 2m
Debunking Baby-Led Weaning | Kelsey Thompson
Understanding the research, benefits, and limitations of Baby-Led Weaning.Guest: Kelsey Thompson, PhD, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YoutubeIn this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, and Kelsey Thompson, PhD, CCC-SLP, dig into baby-led weaning (BLW). Whether you're new to BLW or looking to refine your clinical perspective, Michelle and Kelsey break down what BLW is, what it isn't, and how to support families and their little ones with confidence.About the Guest: Kelsey Thompson, PhD, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, research scientist, and mom of two. Her clinical and research work centers on supporting families during the introduction of solid foods, with the goal of preventing long-term pediatric feeding disorders and empowering caregivers to feel confident in their feeding journey.Related Courses:Early Feeding Transitions and Down Syndrome: How to Support CaregiversInfant Reflexes for Feeding and DevelopmentShow Notes:Contact Kelsey on LinkedInFeeding FlockFind Resources: FindHelp.orgLove Money: Support Feeding MattersResources:Complementary Feeding Methods-A Review of the Benefits and RisksThe Baby-Led Weaning Method (BLW) in the Context of Complementary Feeding: A ReviewBaby-led weaning: A thematic analysis of comments made by parents using online parenting forumsEarly feeding practices and eating behaviour in preschool children: The CORALS cohortImpact of a Modified Version of Baby-Led Weaning on Infant Food and Nutrient Intakes: The BLISS Randomized Controlled TrialHow different are baby-led weaning and conventional complementary feeding? A cross-sectional study of infants aged 6-8 monthsCurrent Evidence on Nutrient Intakes and Infant Growth: A Narrative Review of Baby-Led Weaning vs. Conventional Weaning
- 2 weeks ago1h 8m
The Intersection of Mental Health and Adolescent Language with Kary Mirasola
How do mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression influence language and communication?Guest: Kary Mirasola, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YoutubeIn this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, is joined by Kary Mirasola, MS, CCC-SLP, for a thoughtful discussion about the connection between adolescent language development and mental health. As mental health concerns continue to affect students across school and clinical settings, this conversation considers the role speech-language pathologists can play as part of an interprofessional team. Michelle and Kary also discuss how emotional well-being may affect assessment findings, goal development, and intervention planning, and offer strategies to help SLPs better understand and support the whole student.About the Guest: Kary Mirasola, MS, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist with more than 20 years of experience working in a pediatric hospital setting. Throughout her career, she has specialized in working with adolescents and has had the opportunity to work closely on interdisciplinary teams alongside psychologists, occupational and physical therapists, pediatricians, and advanced practice nurses, supporting school-age children and adolescents with complex communication, learning, and mental health needs.Show Notes:Contact Kary on her website: Woven Language + LearningLove Money: National Alliance on Mental IllnessMentioned in this episode:Register for the Back-2-School Conference
- 3 weeks ago1h 10m
Enthusiastic Bilingual Evaluations en Acción with Damaris Sánchez Rivera
Gain practical strategies to gather meaningful information during bilingual evaluations.Guest: Damaris Sánchez Rivera, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YoutubeMichelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, is joined by Damaris Sánchez Rivera, MS, CCC-SLP, host of the Spanish-language podcast SLPs en Acción, for a thoughtful conversation about ethical, strengths-based evaluation and treatment approaches for bilingual children. Together, they explore how clinicians can approach bilingual assessments with confidence, cultural responsiveness, and joy while supporting children and families across a variety of settings.About the Guest: Damaris Sanchez Rivera's, MS, CCC-SLP, clinical experience includes working in private practices, charter schools, and home settings. Damaris is currently the Outreach Program Director at a non-profit organization where she coordinates hearing, vision, and speech and language screenings for preschools and Head Start centers for more than 1,000 children every year. Contact Damaris:IG: @speechloveandplaymusic LinkedInListen to SLPs en Acción: Apple PodcastsSpotify YoutubeShow Notes:Bilinguistics: The Ultimate Speech Language Parent Questionnaire LibraryRelated Course: “Understanding Medical Interpretation” Find Resources: FindHelp.orgThe Children’s Trust Miami Dolly Parton Imagination LibraryDolly Parton Imagination Library Bilingual InstructionsDysphagia Outreach ProjectHablamigo: Bilingual resource for K-5 studentsLove Money: The United WayMentioned in this episode:Register for the Back-2-School Conference
- Jun 30, 20261h 14m
Burdens and Blessings of Feeding Tubes | Claire Reilly
An interprofessional conversation on supporting families through the emotional and practical realities of tube feeding.Guest: Claire Reilly, RD, PhD CandidateEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YoutubeMichelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, welcomes Claire Reilly, RD, PhD Candidate, to First Bite for a thoughtful conversation on the burdens and blessings of pediatric feeding tubes and the path toward tube weaning through an interprofessional lens. Claire shares insights from her latest research on caregiver burden, highlighting the stressors families often carry behind the scenes, including the daily frustrations of managing feeding equipment and routines. Walk away with practical insights, a deeper understanding of caregiver experiences, and a hopeful perspective on helping children move toward greater feeding independence.About the Guest: Claire is a pediatric dietitian and clinical researcher with nearly two decades of clinical experience. Her work focuses on the care and management of children with feeding tubes, with a specific interest in mixed-methods research, consumer engagement, and priority setting. Currently completing her PhD, Claire has published in leading peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences.Show Notes:Contact Claire on LinkedInPFD DAISI: Pediatric Feeding Disorder Dynamic Approach to Impacts and Social IntegrationFeeding Matters: Power of Two ProgramLove money: Support Feeding MattersASHA Advocacy: Take ActionMentioned in this episode:Register for the Back-2-School Conference
- Jun 23, 20261h 13m
Professional Collaboration and Shared Creation for School-based SLPs with Mary Mitchell
Have you ever heard of the term “shared-creation” or wondered how it applies to effective collaboration for school-based SLPs?Guest: Mary Mitchell, PhD, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YoutubeIn this episode of First Bite, Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, is joined by Mary Mitchell, PhD, CCC-SLP to explore the many ways collaboration can look in practice and define what true shared-creation collaboration involves for the school-based SLP. Michelle and Mary discuss how the SLP’s role shifts across settings, why meaningful collaboration goes far beyond quick conversations or shared paperwork, and how intentional teamwork can help create stronger support systems for students. They share ideas for building authentic partnerships with classroom teachers, navigating common collaboration challenges, and using evidence-based resources to strengthen collaborative practice in schools.About the Guest: Mary Mitchell, PhD, CCC-SLP, is a Clinical Associate Professor in the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Pacific University. Her clinical background is rooted in school-based services. Dr. Mitchell’s clinical and research interests include language and literacy assessment and intervention, dynamic assessment, professional learning, supervision, and interprofessional collaboration.Show Notes:Contact Mary: mary.mitchell@pacificu.eduCollaboration in Schools: Let's Define It (Mitchell et al., 2020)Vocabulary Outcomes With Third Graders in a Teacher and Speech-Language Pathologist Collaboration (Mitchell et al., 2022)Facilitating Language Development for Inner-City Children: Experimental Evaluation of a Collaborative, Classroom-Based Intervention (Hadley et al., 2000)Crucial Conversations Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry PattersonShared Minds: The New Technologies of Collaboration by Michael SchrageBooks Are for Talking, Too! By Jane L. GebersSupport the Community Transitional SchoolSupport Holla School
- Jun 16, 20261h 6m
Caregiver Coaching for AAC with Daj Mitchell
Connect the dots between AAC caregiver coaching and adult learning.Guest: Daj Mitchell, MS, CCC-SLPEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YoutubeMichelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP, is joined by Daj Mitchell for a joyful discussion on powerful AAC caregiver coaching. Together, they explore Malcolm Knowles’ Principles of Adult Learning and how these concepts can help SLPs better support caregivers throughout the AAC journey. Daj breaks down the four levels of caregiver readiness for AAC implementation and shares practical strategies for meeting families where they are. Gain ideas for tailoring AAC coaching conversations, strengthening caregiver engagement, and creating more meaningful opportunities for communication success across everyday routines.About the Guest: Daj Mitchell, MS CCC-SLP, graduated from Governors State University with her Bachelor's in Speech-Language Pathology and a minor in Psychology. She received her Master’s in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from Illinois State University and holds a variety of certifications and awards, including, but not limited to, certification as a Lingraphica Technology Specialist, Level I and Level II Sensory certified, and a recipient of two successive ASHA ACE awards.Show Notes:Contact Daj on Instagram: @yourslpdajListen to Daj's Podcast: Co-Treat Corner: Collaboration Tips for Therapists Love Money: Support Spero Stuttering
- Jun 9, 20261h 13m
Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing with Margo Kinzer Courter
Explore the ripple effect of early speech and language skills on literacy development.Guest: Margo Kinzer Courter, MBA, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-CLEarn 0.10 ASHA CEUs for this episode with Speech Therapy PDWatch on YoutubeIn this episode of First Bite, Michelle is tickled pink to host Margo Kinzer Courter, MBA, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL, to explore child-led intervention and how letting little ones take the lead can transform speech and language outcomes in early intervention and preschool settings. Margo shares her go-to resources to help bridge speaking, listening, reading, and writing in ways that feel natural and effective in your sessions. This conversation is full of practical ideas to help you support early communication and literacy while keeping therapy engaging, responsive, and meaningful.About the Guest: Margo Kinzer Courter, MBA, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-CL, began her speech-language pathology career in inpatient pediatric rehabilitation. From there, she moved to an outpatient clinic specializing in language-based learning disabilities. Her medical and educational background in language and language disorders has provided the foundation for her 30-year career as a speech-language pathologist.Show Notes:Big Kid School: EI to Preschool CourseMargo’s Website: Courter Communications (Therapy Materials)Childhood Apraxia of Speech VideosExtensions to the Speech Disorders Classification System (Shriberg et al., 2010)Developmental Texture FrameworkMarquette Neurodevelopmental Feeding And Swallowing LabI-EaT Swallowing Research LabLove Money: Support Butler University SLHS Fund
About First Bite: Fed, Fun, Functional SLP Insights
First Bite is your go-to resource for all things pediatric speech therapy–covering pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders, lactation, AAC, early language acquisition, advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration. Designed to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, the podcast brings functional, evidence-based insights straight to clinicians serving little ones and their caregivers. Whether you’re a student, seasoned practitioner, researcher, or interprofessional partner, First Bite invites you to listen, learn, and grow alongside a supportive community. Gain the confidence to take whatever “first bite” comes next in your clinical practice–one heartfelt and tea-fueled conversation at a time. Hosted by Michelle Dawson, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, BCS-S, FNAP–bestselling author of "Chasing the Swallow: Truth, Science, and Hope for Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Disorders," joyful boy mom, and early intervention specialist–First Bite explores the latest research, clinical strategies, and lived experiences shaping pediatric speech therapy today.
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