LeadSpeak: School-Based SLP Podcast

In this special wrap-up episode, co-hosts Judy Rich and Nathalie Lebrun revisit the bold insights, vulnerable truths, and innovative strategies shared by this season’s lineup of powerhouse guests—from school-based changemakers to nationally recognized voices in Speech-Language Pathology. Together, we’ve explored how SLPs lead from every lane—therapy rooms, IEP meetings, district offices, and beyon...

In this dynamic and heartfelt episode of LeadSpeak, we sit down with Rachel Powell—Director of Curriculum & Instruction, veteran SLP, data enthusiast, and award-winning leader—to explore how school-based speech-language pathologists can expand their reach far beyond the therapy room. Rachel shares her evolution from clinician to systems-level leader, all rooted in a deep love for literacy, a passi...

In this episode, we sit down with Natalie Crow, the trailblazing current Coordinator in Richardson ISD, North Texas. Natalie shares her inspiring journey from feeling isolated and overwhelmed early in her career to building one of the most supportive and sustainable school-based SLP teams around. Listeners will learn how Natalie turned big ideas into concrete systems — from tailored appraisal tool...

What does it take to lead when you don’t have the title, the authority, or the last word? In this episode, Dr. Megan-Brette Hamilton—SLP, professor, qualitative researcher, and ASHA’s Chief Staff Officer for Multicultural Affairs—shares how real influence is built through trust, clarity, and connection. With experience spanning Brooklyn classrooms, university lecture halls, and national leadership...

What if the data point that mattered most wasn’t 80% accuracy—but your student’s confidence? In this empowering episode, Hallie Sherman, the dynamic mind behind Speech Time Fun and Speech Retreat, joins us to talk about what progress really looks like in the school-based SLP world. From reminding us that slow progress is still progress, to helping students tie their communication goals to real-lif...

What if the very systems designed to support students and staff are inadvertently causing harm? In this compelling episode, we sit down with Rachel Archambault, M.A., CCC-SLP—also known as the PTSD SLP—a dedicated speech-language pathologist and trauma-informed care advocate. Rachel shares her personal journey and professional insights into how trauma-informed practices can transform educational e...

In the final episode of Season 2, the hosts reflect on the key lessons from Will Guidara’s book Unreasonable Hospitality, exploring how its principles can transform leadership and communication in educational settings. Guidara’s approach emphasizes the power of hospitality and how leaders can create exceptional experiences by going above and beyond expectations—building strong relationships with s...

How can AI transform the way school-based SLPs work? In this episode, Nathalie and Judy sit down with Rebecca Bishop and Melissa Rajaram to explore the role of artificial intelligence in streamlining administrative tasks like data collection, documentation, and session preparation. By leveraging these tools, SLPs can focus more on impactful, skilled interventions that matter most to their students...

In this episode, Stephanie Michele Sweigart, Speech Language Pathologist and Teacher of Mindfulness Meditation introduces a transformative framework for navigating difficult conversations with clarity, curiosity, and compassion. Whether you’re delivering hard news to your team, managing up the chain of command, or addressing heightened emotions in the workplace, this episode is packed with actiona...

The growing shortage of school-based Speech-Language Pathologists isn’t just a hiring challenge—it’s a wake-up call for school districts to rethink how they recruit, support, and retain SLPs. This episode breaks down the essential ingredients for creating workplaces where SLPs feel valued and empowered to thrive. Join hosts Nathalie and Judy chat with Perry Flynn as they explore: 🎯 The difference...

In this heartfelt episode, we welcome the inspiring Phuong Palafox, who brings a refreshing perspective on leadership that’s all about reducing overwhelm, sharing stories that resonate, and nurturing hope within school-based SLP teams. Phuong dives into the power of storytelling as a tool for connection, and she shares practical ways leaders can help their teams feel seen, supported, and less over...

In this episode, we dive into fresh perspectives with the one and only Chris Wenger—aka Speech Dude! Known for his humor and dynamic approach to school-based SLP, Chris joins us to talk about why it’s time to *unlearn* outdated practices and *rethink* how we approach neuro-affirming care for our students. He shares his insights on SLP leadership, collaborating with educational advocates, and the p...

In the kickoff episode of LeadSpeak Season 2, titled "Lead Like You Mean It", Judy and Nathalie are back and ready to dive into a fresh season of inspiring conversations for SLP leaders. They start by previewing what’s to come, including introductions to the first three exciting guests who will bring their own unique insights into leadership in the field of speech-language pathology. Judy and Nath...

Join hosts Judy and Nathalie as they take you on a journey through the best moments of Season 1 in this special recap episode of LeadSpeak Podcast. Reflecting on the major themes and invaluable insights shared by our incredible guests, Judy and Nathalie discuss what they've learned and how these lessons have shaped their perspectives on leadership in Speech Language Pathology. Get ready for an eng...

Jessica Abel is an SLP from the state of New York with leadership experience as a speech-language pathologist , campus assistant principal, and a district-wide multidisciplinary leader. Jessica shares how SLPs are uniquely positioned to create meaningful change for all students. Nathalie, Judy, and Jessica share how innovation in public education must be based on "real talk" between clinicians, di...

In this second part of our two-episode conversation with Speech Language Pathologist Cherry Wright, we embark on a retrospective journey through her diverse professional roles within public education. From department leader to district board member, Cherry's commitment to student success shines through. She shares invaluable advice for SLPs seeking to make a difference, emphasizing the importance...

In this first part of our two-episode conversation with Speech Language Pathologist Cherry Wright, we embark on a retrospective journey through her diverse professional roles within public education. From department leader to district board member, Cherry's commitment to student success shines through. She shares invaluable advice for SLPs seeking to make a difference, emphasizing the importance o...

Judy and Nathalie are joined by the remarkable Bethany Whidden, a true representation of action-based leadership. From her beginnings as a campus-based Speech-Language Pathologist, Bethany shares her remarkable journey of growth and advancement into district and regional leadership roles. Tune in as Bethany shares the pivotal role of volunteer opportunities in her leadership journey, showcasing ho...

This week, we sit down with the remarkable JoAnn Wiechmann, a champion for breaking down barriers to leadership opportunities in public education for speech language pathologists. JoAnn shares her insights on how our unique perspective can bring the voices of our students to decision-making tables in every school district, creating impactful change in educational settings. JoAnn opens up about how...

We sit down with the dynamic Charlette McRay Green, a seasoned Speech-Language Pathologist turned educational leader. In this illuminating conversation, Charlette shares her transformative journey, navigating the intersection of SLP expertise and diverse leadership roles in public education. Discover the invaluable lessons Charlette learned along the way, emphasizing the importance of openness and...

In this inaugural episode, your co-hosts Judy Rich and Nathalie Lebrun take the stage to introduce themselves, sharing their passion for leadership in the field of Speech Language Pathology. Discover the unique journeys that brought them here and gain insights into what drives their commitment to developing the next generation of SLP leaders. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that sets the t...