In this Listen for LIFE Aphasia podcast episode, we dive into speech therapy and the innovative platform SpeechFlix. SpeechFlix is a Netflix-style database of on-demand speech therapy home practice videos for aphasia, dysarthria, and much more! The guest for this episode is Sarah Awde, the creator of SpeechFlix. She has a bachelor's in French linguistics and a master's in clinical science in speech-language pathology.

Here's a comprehensive summary of what you can expect:

- We explore Sarah Awde's journey as the creator of SpeechFlix and how her background in French Linguistics and experience with adults influenced her approach to speech therapy.

- Sarah emphasizes the importance of functional therapy and the use of technology to supplement traditional treatment, providing a resource for individuals with communication challenges like aphasia, dysarthria, and apraxia.

- With over 170 videos, SpeechFlix offers various exercises for verbal expression, listening, word retrieval, cognition, reading, and writing, catering to various types of aphasia.

- The platform is user-friendly, with videos categorized by difficulty level, target, and theme, making it easy for users to navigate and practice speech therapy exercises at home.

- Users have reported improvements in speech clarity and motivation, highlighting the effectiveness of SpeechFlix in their rehabilitation journey.

- SpeechFlix also offers facility licenses for organizations, ensuring continuity of care and home practice for multiple users.

- The platform goes beyond just therapy videos, providing educational content and features like printable handouts to enhance the user experience.

- Sarah encourages feedback and suggestions for new videos, constantly striving to improve the platform and meet the specific needs of users.

If you're interested in exploring SpeechFlix, they offer a five-day free trial for you to discover the videos and see if it's the right fit for your speech therapy needs. Head over to https://speechflix.net/ to uncomplicate aphasia and embark on your journey towards improved communication.

The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”

If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com. Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.

Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement. Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

In this episode of the Listen for LIFE Aphasia podcast, we dive into the world of caregiving for individuals with communication with Dr. Kristin Schaffer Mendez. Dr. Kristin Schaffer Mendez, PhD, CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist and an assistant professor at the University of St. Augustine in Austin, TX. Her primary areas of focus are in adult neurogenic communication disorders and counseling.

Kristin researches holistic treatment approaches and lived experiences of people with aphasia/PPA and their care partners. She shares her expertise and insights on providing support for patients, families, and caregivers.

Here are the top takeaways from our conversation:

- Incorporating counseling into speech pathology practice is crucial for caregivers. By offering psychoeducation, personal adjustment counseling, and emotional support, speech pathologists can better assist caregivers in their journey.

- Interprofessional collaboration between speech pathologists and mental health professionals is beneficial in addressing the mental health needs of caregivers. By working together, they can provide comprehensive care and support.

- Self-care is essential for caregivers. Kristin emphasizes the importance of practices like mindfulness, self-compassion, and maintaining social connections to prioritize their well-being.

- Support groups tailored to specific conditions, such as aphasia or primary progressive aphasia, can provide caregivers with a sense of community and understanding. These groups can be in-person and virtual, offering valuable resources and a supportive network.

To uncomplicate aphasia and enhance the well-being of both patients and caregivers, Kristin encourages establishing a strong therapeutic relationship with patients and their families. By doing so, treatment outcomes can be improved, and overall well-being can be enhanced.

Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved ones. If you want to learn more about LIFE Speech Pathology and their resources, be sure to check out their website and social media channels.

Take action today and prioritize your well-being as a caregiver. You're doing an incredible job, and we're here to support you every step of the way.

If you want more information regarding Kristin's research, or if you have any questions for her, please email her at kmendez@usa.edu!

The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”

If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com.

Do you or someone you love have aphasia and are seeking support? Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.

Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.

Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

The 100th episode of the Listen for Life Aphasia podcast celebrates aphasia independence, focusing on self-sufficiency and resilience. This episode highlights the importance of aphasia independence as someone's joureys through life. It also includes metalanguage in understanding communication patterns and advises celebrating small victories while striving for continuous improvement. The episode concludes with a reminder to access a free resource on aphasia independence and extends well wishes for a happy 4th of July and Aphasia Independence Day.

Top Takeaways:

• Independence requires a mindset of self-confidence, resilience, empowerment, and positivity.

• Practical tools like aphasia cards, communication scripts, and technology can aid in building independence.

• Practicing communication in different settings is crucial for improvement.

• Understanding metalanguage helps in recognizing and improving communication patterns.

• Celebrate small victories and continuously work towards greater independence.

To start uncomplicating aphasia and take steps towards greater independence, visit LIFE Speech Pathology for resources and support. Remember, every small step counts, and together, we can make a significant difference.

The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”

If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com.

Do you or someone you love have aphasia and are seeking support? Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.

Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.

Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

In this episode, we talk about the inspiring work of Maura Silverman, the executive director at the National Aphasia Association. Maura is a passionate advocate for individuals with aphasia and their families, driven by her personal experience with her mother's aphasia. She emphasizes the importance of Aphasia Awareness Month, which aims to amplify aphasia voices and promote confidence and life participation. The association undertakes various initiatives to raise awareness, including social media campaigns, movie screenings, and a library showcase project. They also have a unique fundraising campaign where people can purchase a virtual megaphone to honor someone affected by aphasia.

Maura's approach to therapy is deeply influenced by her mother's journey, focusing on the life participation approach and the importance of maintaining identity and roles. She highlights the necessity of support, education, and inclusion for families navigating aphasia. Her dedication to enhancing communication, community connections, and resources at the National Aphasia Association underscores her commitment to empowering individuals with aphasia and their families.

Top Takeaways:

• Aphasia Awareness Month is crucial for amplifying aphasia voices and promoting life participation.

• The National Aphasia Association uses social media campaigns, movie screenings, and library showcases to raise awareness.

• A unique fundraising campaign allows individuals to purchase a virtual megaphone to honor someone with aphasia.

• Maura Silverman's personal experience with her mother's aphasia shapes her therapeutic approach, emphasizing the life participation approach.

• Support, education, and inclusion are essential for families dealing with aphasia.

• The National Aphasia Association provides valuable resources through their YouTube channel and newsletters.

Action Steps:

1. Engage with the National Aphasia Association's social media campaigns to help raise awareness.

2. Participate in Aphasia Awareness Month activities, such as movie screenings and library showcases.

3. Consider purchasing a virtual megaphone to honor someone affected by aphasia and support the association's fundraising efforts.

4. Explore the resources available on the National Aphasia Association's YouTube channel and newsletters for valuable information and support.

5. Advocate for the life participation approach in aphasia therapy to help maintain identity and roles for individuals with aphasia.

Let's work together to uncomplicate aphasia and support LIFE Speech Pathology in their mission to empower individuals with aphasia and their families. Join us in making a positive impact in the aphasia community!

The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”

If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com.

Do you or someone you love have aphasia and are seeking support? Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.

Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.

Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

In this episode, Lindsey Wineholt, a speech pathologist at UT Health at Austin, shares her expertise on neurodegenerative disorders, specifically primary progressive aphasia (PPA). Here are the key takeaways:

- PPA primarily affects language skills and typically starts in the late fifties or early sixties, gradually worsening over time.

- Diagnosis of PPA can be challenging due to the gradual onset of symptoms.

- PPA has three subtypes: non-fluent agrammatic, logopenic, and semantic, each presenting unique language difficulties.

- Primary progressive apraxia of speech (PPAOS) is a newer diagnosis characterized by motor speech difficulties without language impairment.

- Lindsay emphasizes the importance of collaboration between speech pathologists and counselors to support individuals with PPA.

- Counseling plays a crucial role in helping individuals and their families cope with the emotional impact of communication disorders.

- Lindsay encourages individuals with PPA to seek support from speech pathologists, national organizations, and local community resources.

- Effective communication strategies and social engagement can help combat social isolation in individuals with PPA.

If you or someone you know is facing communication challenges due to PPA, remember that you're not alone. Reach out to LIFE Speech Pathology and other resources to get the support you need. Let's uncomplicate aphasia together!

The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”

If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com.

Do you or someone you love have aphasia and are seeking support? Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.

Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.

Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Ralph Preston, a stroke survivor, as he shares his path to recovery after a right-side hemorrhagic stroke. Here are the top takeaways from this episode:

- Ralph emphasizes the importance of intense therapy and dedication to improvement in stroke recovery.

- He created the Stroke Buddies Facebook group to provide support and resources for stroke survivors.

- The Stroke Buddies YouTube channel, with its 380+ videos, showcases exercises and recovery techniques to help stroke survivors overcome fear and make progress.

- Ralph is working on projects like adaptive tai chi, neuro Pilates, and weight training post-stroke, encouraging confidence and pushing past fear in recovery.

- Safety and support are paramount in the stroke community, and Ralph's resources reflect his commitment to these values.

Remember, the power of hope is crucial in overcoming challenges. If you or someone you know is a stroke survivor, engage with Ralph's content on the Stroke Buddies YouTube channel. Don't hesitate to share your feedback and experiences. Together, we can uncomplicate aphasia and support stroke survivors on their journey to recovery.

Check out Stroke Buddies on FaceBook and YouTube!

The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”

If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com.

Do you or someone you love have aphasia and are seeking support? Book a free consultation by heading over to DoLIFESpeechPathology.com or by following this specific link: https://DoLIFESpeech.intakeq.com/booking?serviceId=dc1e232b-a9ed-46cb-aba3-cdbbb0fab97b.

Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.

Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

In this episode of the Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast, our host, Genevieve Richardson, is a guest on Telepractice Today for their 200th episode! The episode dives into the world of telepractice and its impact on accessibility and reaching people regardless of their location. Genevieve is joined with Michelle Boisvert where they share their experiences as speech-language pathologists and how telepractice has revolutionized their fields. Here are the top takeaways from this episode:

- Telepractice requires the right equipment, including a reliable computer, a solid wifi connection, an iPad, and a keyboard.

- Tips and tricks for effective telepractice include using two screens for streaming audio and video, screen sharing, and utilizing Google Slides.

- The pandemic has brought both challenges and benefits to telepractice, with increased involvement of parents and caregivers in therapy sessions.

- Standards and training in telepractice are crucial to ensure quality and effectiveness.

- Technology tools like Google Lens can greatly enhance accessibility and engagement for clients with reading disabilities or low vision.

- Real-life case studies demonstrate the significant impact of these tools on clients' progress and independence.

- Telepractice promotes inclusion and provides support for individuals with communication disorders.

The Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast is a platform dedicated to supporting individuals through stories and experiences. Visit ListenForLIFEAphasiaPodcast.com to view video episodes. If you have a topic or guest recommendation, or if YOU want to be a guest, visit the Guest Hub. If you have any unanswered questions, you can ask Genevieve and Aphasia Wisdom through “Search for Answers.”

If you or a loved one is seeking telepractice support, LIFE Speech Pathology® can help! Explore our services and approach at DoLIFESpeechPathology.com.

Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.

Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.

In this episode of the Listen for Life podcast, hosted by Genevieve Richardson, we dive into the world of aphasia rehabilitation and support. Our guest, Michelle Armour, a speech-language pathologist at Northwestern Medicine Aphasia Center at Marianjoy, shares her experience and insights on how to navigate life with aphasia. Here are the top takeaways from our conversation:

- Michelle started the Aphasia Center at Marianjoy due to the limited resources available for individuals with aphasia. It began as a support group and has now evolved into a comprehensive program.

- The Aphasia Center offers various programs, including in-person group activities such as conversation groups, technology training, functional math and writing exercises, and a book club.

- Virtual programming and an intensive aphasia program are also available at the center. The intensive program lasts four weeks and includes group therapy, individual therapy, and community outings.

- The life participation approach is a key focus in aphasia rehabilitation. It aims to help individuals with aphasia participate in meaningful activities and involves collaborative goal-setting with the patient and their family.

- Aphasia Access, an organization of which Michelle is the vice president, provides resources and support for clinicians using the life participation approach. They offer programs and educational opportunities to advance the mission of improving aphasia rehabilitation.

- Caregivers play a crucial role in aphasia rehabilitation; supporting them is essential. Michelle highlights the value of caregiver support groups and involving caregivers in goal-setting and therapy planning.

- Plans for Aphasia Access include e-learning opportunities and leadership summits further to spread knowledge and implementation of the life participation approach.

For more information on Marianjoy, please follow the link HERE!

If you or someone you know is navigating life with aphasia, this episode provides valuable insights and resources. Remember, you're not alone in this journey.

Thank you for your support and engagement with LIFE Speech Pathology®. Explore our services and approach at Do LIFE Speech Pathology. Listen to our Listen for LIFE Aphasia Podcast for more resources and inspiring stories.

Stay connected with us on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and encouragement.

Together, let's uncomplicate aphasia.