Expert Tips for Educators & Therapists

Why /r/ Is So Hard: A Conversation About Speech Sound Disorders with Dr. Kelly Farquharson

Why is the /r/ sound so challenging for so many students—and the SLPs who support them? In this episode of Bright Conversations, Dr. Kelly Farquharson breaks down the science behind speech sound disorders, shares practical strategies for more effective intervention, and highlights why early, contextualized support matters. If you’re looking to build confidence and clarity in treating complex speech sounds, this episode is a must-listen.

Respect the Dialect: Advocating for African American English in Education

Dr. Dionna Latimer Hearn discussed African American English (AAE) as a rule-governed language and how it intersects with educational equity. The course explored what it means to respect dialects other than Standard American English and offered a roadmap for unlearning deficit-based frameworks. Participants were given resources to embrace culturally and linguistically affirming practices.

Free Phonological Awareness Screener for SLPs

Download our free phonological awareness screener for SLPs—designed to identify strengths and areas for intervention in children ages 4–8.

Not Just an Assistant – Leadership, Visibility & The SLPA Network

In this inspiring episode, Shontaye and Sarah sit down with Alice Williams, a nationally recognized Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA), entrepreneur, and founder of The SLPA Network. With over seven years in the field, Alice has become a driving force for leadership, equity, and professional development for support personnel in speech-language pathology.

Advocacy and Special Education Law

Krystal shares her journey from classroom teacher to special education advocate and breaks down how her legal team supports families navigating IEPs, federal law, and state-specific processes. Whether you’re new to special education advocacy or looking to deepen your impact, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical insight for working within the system while keeping students at the center.

“You’re the Expert (Even When You Don’t Feel Like One)”

In this honest and empowering episode of Bright Conversations, Lisa Kathman sits down with Sam Walker, an SLPA turned SLP, to talk about the realities of entering the field, embracing the unknown, and finding confidence along the way. From navigating unexpected settings and heavy caseloads to being seen as “the expert” before feeling ready, Sam offers a refreshing take on what it means to grow in this profession. This episode is a must-listen for new grads, early-career SLPs, and anyone who’s ever felt like they’re learning on the job (because we all are). You’ll hear candid advice, mindset shifts, and reminders that you don’t have to have it all figured out on day one. Growth takes time—and that’s okay

Speech Sound Disorders 2025 Recap

Missed the live event? No problem! Catch the replay of our powerful Speech Sound Disorders course featuring Dr. Sharynne McLeod and Dr. Kelly Farquharson—plus get instant access to two on-demand sessions on /ɹ/ therapy and multilingual speech assessment. Whether you're in schools or private practice, this series is packed with practical tools and evidence-based strategies you can use tomorrow.

Create Calm and Connection: Free Sensory-Friendly Play Space Checklist

Play should be a safe, joyful experience for every child. Our free Sensory-Friendly Play Space Checklist gives families, educators, and therapists practical tips for creating spaces that invite calm, curiosity, and connection. From lighting and seating to sensory tools and flexible routines, this guide helps you design environments where all play is honored.

Rock the R: Practical Strategies for Tackling the /r/ Sound

In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Lisa Kathman sits down with speech sound expert Lindsey Hockel, founder of Rock the R. Together they unpack the challenges of treating the notoriously tricky /r/ sound and explore practical, evidence-based strategies that help students make measurable progress. From biofeedback tools to student self-rating, Lindsey shares her favorite approaches for making therapy engaging, effective, and empowering for both clinicians and students.

Neuroaffirming Learning: Supporting Families & Children with PDA and Beyond

In this episode of Bright Conversations, we explore the real-world experiences of speech-language pathologists and the support professionals who make a difference every day. Our guest shares valuable insights on leadership, advocacy, and creating inclusive spaces in educational and clinical settings. From navigating professional identity to building community and pushing for equity, this episode offers both inspiration and practical tools for anyone working in special education, speech-language pathology, or related fields. Whether you're a seasoned SLP or just starting your career, you'll walk away with a renewed sense of purpose, actionable strategies, and a deeper understanding of the systemic changes needed to support all professionals and students.

Understanding PDA: What Speech-Language Pathologists Need to Know

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), also called Pervasive Drive for Autonomy, is a profile often linked to autism that involves an intense need for control and autonomy. Individuals with PDA may resist everyday demands, show extreme mood swings, and appear social—but only on their terms. For SLPs, understanding PDA is critical to providing compassionate, tailored support that fosters trust and engagement. By shifting perspective, recognizing stress responses, and adapting strategies, SLPs can better meet the needs of students who are often misunderstood or misidentified.

Meaningful Professional Development That Also Meets ASHA's Requirements

As part of ASHA's Certification Maintenance Standards, all practicing SLPs must complete at least 30 hours of professional development every 3 years—and at least 2 of those hours must focus on topics related to Content Area 2. This requirement underscores a commitment to lifelong learning about diverse cultures, identities, and lived experiences. It’s not just about ticking a box—it’s about ensuring we provide the best possible care for individuals from all backgrounds and collaborate effectively with students, families, and colleagues from diverse communities. At Bright Ideas Media, providing inclusive learning opportunities is central to our mission. We’re proud to offer a growing library of courses led by speakers from a wide range of cultural, linguistic, neurodivergent, and lived experiences. Whether you’re just beginning your DEI journey or deepening your understanding, you’ll find practical, evidence-based learning in our course library.

Teaching Body Safety & Autonomy: Adaptations for Neurodivergent Learners

A free, printable guide with practical, evidence-informed strategies to help families, educators, and therapists teach body safety and autonomy to students with language delays and neurodiverse profiles. Learn how to adapt lessons with visual supports, sensory considerations, and collaborative approaches to make this critical education accessible, affirming, and empowering.

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