This episode explores practical communication techniques that help SLPs build strong, trusting rapport with students and clients. Jessica discusses why harsh, punishment-based communication often backfires, and offers evidence-informed strategies that foster connection, collaboration, and emotional safety. Listeners will leave with clear, actionable tools to strengthen therapeutic relationships and improve session outcomes.

The episode explores what SLPs need to know about childhood cancer. Its goal is to function as a broad introduction to this topic, primarily for SLPs who work in educational settings. The episode begins with some childhood cancer basics, including the most common types of pediatric cancers, as well as an overview of childhood cancer symptoms. The episode then examines the different ways in which childhood cancer can impact different facets of communication, including articulation, cognition, language, voice, hearing, and swallowing. The episode emphasizes the importance of collaboration when working with this population, and closes with a reminder that SLPs from educational settings have valuable support to offer children and families who have been impacted by cancer.

This episode focuses on top sleep tips for SLPs. The topic of sleep has a strong connection to the work that SLPs do, because being well-rested can support us in navigating complex clinical issues and managing stressful situations. The episode includes research-based tips from sleep scientists and experts, but it is not medical advice. The first part of the episode explores the importance of having a consistent sleep schedule and going to bed and getting up at the same time each day. Next, the episode covers sleep tips that are applicable for both children and adults, with a focus on developing a nightly wind-down routine. The episode then moves into a discussion about maximizing light exposure in the morning, and minimizing light exposure in the evening. Next, the episode talks about the importance of getting out of bed if you’re struggling to sleep. This tip comes from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, which is an effective insomnia treatment. The final section of the episode addresses the connection between anxiety and insomnia. One strategy in this area is to spend some time before bed writing down sources of stress and anxiety.