Why Bilingual SLPs Need Specialized Support (And How to Find It)

What happens when one bilingual SLP decides she’s tired of feeling alone? She builds a whole movement! In this feel-good episode, Hallie sits down with Sara Gonzalez—a certified Spanish-English SLP in New York and the powerhouse behind the B.E.A.M. SLP Program aka Bilingual Empowerment through Allied Mentorship 💥Sara shares her journey from grad school confusion to co-founding a nationwide mentorship community for bilingual SLPs. If you've ever thought, “Am I bilingual enough?” or felt like the only one navigating the unique challenges of dual-language service… this episode will wrap you in the warmest “you’re not alone” hug. Expect real talk and inspiring moments.Whether you’re a seasoned pro, a CF still finding your voice, or just curious about what it’s like to be a bilingual SLP—this one’s for you. ❤️Bullet Points to Discuss: Mentorship Program for bilingual SLPs1. Purpose of the program2. Why the program was createdHere’s what we learned: Why bilingual SLPs often feel alone—and what to do about itSara’s journey from grad school to founding the B.E.A.M. mentorship programWhat B.E.A.M. is (and how YOU can get involved!)Unique challenges bilingual SLPs face: accents, microaggressions, and moreThe importance of cultural and linguistic awareness in evaluationsWhy mentorship changes everything for new bilingual cliniciansHow a small idea during COVID turned into a powerful national support systemThe role of community in professional growth (hello, Instagram friends and Clubhouse rooms!)Learn more about Sara Gonzalez:Instagram:@abilingualslp, @thebeamslpprogramWebsite: https://abilingualslp.com/Learn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

 Hallie and guest Nathalie Lebrun chat about preparing students for life after high school.In this honest and energizing episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with Nathalie Lebrun—SLP, speaker, co-host of LeadSpeak Podcast and the voice behind LifeSpeak—about working with transition-age students. Nathalie shares how she went from post-acute rehab dreams to leading a massive school-based SLP team, and how she discovered the often-overlooked role SLPs can play in helping students ages 18–22 build real-world communication skills. From Uber training to poker lessons to letting go of perfect data, Nathalie keeps it real about what it means to be a communication coach, not just a therapist. If you’ve ever felt stuck with your older caseload or unsure how to prep students for life beyond school, this conversation will leave you inspired—and ready to rethink your approach.Bullet Points to Discuss: Nathalie’s unexpected path to becoming an SLP and transition expertWhat “transition services” really look like in public school settingsThe SLP’s evolving role as a communication coach beyond the therapy roomFunctional therapy ideas that connect directly to real-life independenceWhy transition planning should start way earlier than we thinkHere’s what we learned: SLPs are essential in supporting students beyond academicsReal-world communication skills should be a therapy focus, especially for older studentsFunctional progress > perfect data collection—especially in transition workCollaboration and creativity are key to meaningful outcomesStart thinking transition early—even in elementary schoolLearn more about Nathalie Lebrun: Email: [email protected] Website: www.lifespeakllc.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathalielebrun/Podcast: https://www.lifespeakllc.org/leadspeak-podcastLearn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie chats with Anoli Mehta about her Clinical Fellowship journey.In this real and refreshing episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie chats with Anoli Mehta—a brand-new grad turned CF and the face behind @itsnotjustspeech. Anoli shares what it was like coming into the field from a non-CSD background, how she found a CF that blends early intervention and private practice, and why she didn’t rush into work right after graduation. From job interviews to imposter syndrome to figuring out what questions to ask (and when to ask them), she’s keeping it honest about life after grad school. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or just trying to catch your breath, this convo is here to remind you—you don’t need to have it all figured out to take the next step.Bullet Points to Discuss: How Anoli landed a CF that mixes early intervention and private practiceWhy she applied everywhere and asked all the questions (even the awkward ones)What she looked for in a supervisor—and what made her say “nope” to certain jobsTaking the Praxis early and how that helped during interviewsWhy she gave herself time to just chill after graduation (and why you should too)Here’s what we learned: It’s totally fine to still feel unsure—you’re not supposed to have it all figured outAsk about support, mentorship, and pay—don’t be afraid to speak upThe right job will feel right—trust your gut in interviewsYou don’t need to be in a rush—take a breath before jumping into your CFYou made it through grad school for a reason—you’re ready, even if it doesn’t feel like it yetLearn more about Anoli Mehta: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsnotjustspeech TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itsnotjustspeech Learn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

 Hallie chats with Alice Williams about SLPAsIn this uplifting and insightful episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with the inspiring Alice Williams—an SLPA, entrepreneur, and trailblazer for support personnel in the field of speech therapy. From discovering the profession while working retail to founding The SLPA Network, Alice shares her incredible journey of resilience, growth, and leadership. She opens up about working across multiple settings, mentoring fellow SLPAs, and the power of interdisciplinary collaboration. Alice dives into the challenges she’s overcome and the community she’s building to empower others to thrive—whether they stay SLPAs or not. If you’ve ever felt isolated or unsure as a support professional, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and that your voice matters.Bullet Points to Discuss: How Alice stumbled into the world of speech and found her calling as an SLPAWhat it really looks like to work as an SLPA across different settingsThe major differences between SLPs and SLPAs—and why both are essentialWhy Alice started the SLPA Network to give others the support she didn’t haveHow mentorship, collaboration, and community make all the differenceThe story behind launching the very first SLPA SummitEncouraging SLPAs to dream big, think outside the box, and own their expertiseHere’s what we learned: SLPAs provide vital, hands-on therapy under SLP supervision—and bring unique value to care teams.There’s a major lack of support and mentorship for SLPAs, which inspired Alice to build the SLPA Network.Building a business or pursuing entrepreneurship as an SLPA is possible—and needed in the field.Many SLPAs feel isolated; having a community where they can be seen, supported, and uplifted is transformative.The upcoming SLPA Summit is the first of its kind—centered on dreaming big and giving support personnel space to grow.Learn more about Alice Williams: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/speechwithmsaliceWebsite: www.speechwithmsalice.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speechwith_msaliceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.slpa.network The SLPA Network: www.theslpanetwork.net 5 Confidence Shifts Every Professional NeedsLearn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

 Hallie chats about one of the BIG mistakes she made during her CF Year that cost her money and sanity.In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie’s getting real about a common mistake she made during her CF year—one that cost her time, money, and way too much trunk space! If you’re heading into your CF, just landed your first job, or even changing settings, this one’s for you. Hallie shares what she wishes she did instead of stress-shopping every toy and game in sight—and how you can better prepare (hint: it’s not about buying more stuff). From planning smarter to finding support, she’s breaking down how to walk into your CF with clarity, confidence, and a whole lot less clutter!Bullet Points to Discuss: Hallie’s CF year mistake: over-buying materials she never usedWhy being “ready” doesn’t mean having all the thingsWhat truly helped her succeed that year (spoiler: it wasn’t toys)Smarter ways to prepare for your CF year or first jobHere’s what we learned: Invest in support and strategy, not shelves full of stuffYou don’t need new materials for every session—reuse creativelyFocus on learning planning, goal-writing, and flexibilityBuilding community and mentorship matters more than your therapy cartLearn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie chats with Ellie Richter about teletherapy and how to make it work for youWhat do you get when you mix a surprise preemie, a fearless career pivot, and a whole lot of neon stickers? You get Ellie Richter, the powerhouse SLP behind The Essential Teletherapist—and she’s here to spill all the virtual tea.In this feel-good (and laugh-out-loud honest) convo, Hallie Sherman chats with Ellie about ditching the traditional grind, setting boundaries like a pro, and building a thriving teletherapy practice that serves both kids and clinicians. If you’ve ever questioned if teletherapy can be fun, effective, and sustainable—this episode’s your permission slip to go all in.Bullet points to discuss:How a health scare led Ellie to launch her virtual practiceWhy teletherapy is essential for underserved schoolsGroup therapy tips: two’s a win, five’s a disasterEllie’s must-have tools for articulation and engagementFun ways to boost student buy-in (hint: stickers + choice!)Setting boundaries with schools like a bossWhy teletherapy isn’t plan B—it’s the future of SLP workIn this episode, you'll hear:How a personal health scare pushed Ellie to build a flexible, virtual private practiceWhy underserved districts need teletherapy—and how SLPs can make a real impactThe secrets to successful group teletherapy (spoiler: two’s company, five’s a hot messWhat tools Ellie swears by for articulation therapy and student engagementCreative ways to build connection, confidence, and buy-in from students How Ellie empowers students by letting them choose their themes—and why it mattersTips for advocating with school contracts and setting non-negotiable boundariesWhy teletherapy isn’t a backup plan—it’s a bold career moveLearn more about Ellie Richter:Website: www.theessentialteletherapist.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theessentialteletherapist/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566987832697Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ps9xDECWXs6nlekB73hys?si=803a140cc3194911 Other LinksTeletherapy Activity Resource List for All Ages:https://www.canva.com/design/DAGS0H4daok/9jBynHljFFarIKpj6qQmcw/edit?utm_content=DAGS0H4daok&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebuttonLearn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie and Dr. Jessica Walker discuss executive functionIn this insightful and empowering episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with the brilliant Dr. Jessica Walker—an SLP with a PhD, a brain injury researcher turned school-based clinician, and a fierce advocate for adolescent support. From her unique path through higher education to the hallways of middle and high schools, Dr. Walker brings a fresh and essential perspective on executive functioning, emotional regulation, and the critical role SLPs play in supporting teens. She shares how she built her role from scratch, became a trusted member of school-based teams, and uses creative, collaborative strategies (hello, DBT and study hall social groups!) to support neurodivergent and neurotypical students alike. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your therapy more impactful, relevant, and emotionally supportive for older students, this episode is packed with gems you won’t want to miss!Bullet Points to Discuss: How executive skills show up in everyday social interactionsThe role of emotional regulation in navigating relationshipsWhy struggling in one area often means challenges in anotherPractical tools and approaches to support all three skill domains togetherStories from the field: what integrated coaching can look like in real lifeThe overlap between communication, cognition, and social-emotional developmentHow SLPs are uniquely equipped to coach skills that support long-term successWhat makes coaching different from therapy—and when it’s the right fitHow SLPs can think beyond the IEP to support teens in everyday lifeHere’s what we learned: SLPs are key players in executive function and SEL.Start with self-awareness—everything builds from there.Real-life moments > worksheets every time.Resistance is normal; trust takes time.Collaboration fuels carryover and confidence.Keep showing up—your impact grows.Learn more about Dr. Jessica Walker: Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/cognitive_connections_coaching/ JWalker Communication: https://www.jwalkercommunication.com/ Cognitive Connections Coaching: https://www.cognitive-connections-coaching.com/ Free Digital Downloads – Cognitive Connections CoachingLearn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie chats with MaKayla Elrod about her CF experience and answers questions every CF is asking!In this inspiring episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with MaKayla Elrod, a passionate pediatric SLP who shares her powerful journey from Tennessee to Miami—and from being told she'd never make it, to thriving in early intervention and private practice. From tackling imposter syndrome to navigating a cross-country move after marriage, MaKayla opens up about her CF year in PreK, her love for parent education, and what she wishes every new SLP knew about managing behaviors, work-life balance, and trusting the process.Bullet Points to Discuss:CF ExperienceBalancing school / work / homeWorking in a variety of settingsMoving across the countryOpen to talking anything! :)Here’s what we learned:Overcoming grad school rejection and proving doubters wrongThe benefits of working with a contract company during the CF yearImposter syndrome and adjusting to working without constant supervisionLearning behavior management skills in a preschool special ed settingThe shift from data obsession to focusing on connection with studentsTips for time management and building a sustainable work-life balanceThe impact of moving cities after marriage and adapting to MiamiMentorship and support systems during the CF yearExploring various settings: schools, private practice, and adult careThe truth about what materials to buy (and what to skip!) before startingLearn more about MaKayla Elrod:Instagram:  @missmakayla.slpTikTok:  @makayla_elrodTPT:  https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/miss-makayla-the-slp Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie answers the biggest questions CFs have about the first year.Hey hey, SLP fam! Whether you're stepping into your CF year or just landed your first gig in the schools, this episode of SLP Coffee Talk is your new best friend. Hallie’s got your back with the top 10 questions every new SLP secretly wants to ask—from “What should I even do on my first week?” to “Am I totally faking it?” Spoiler: You're not. Tune in for tips, laughs, and the kind of real talk you wish grad school gave you. No fluff, just Hallie being your go-to SLP cheerleader with practical answers, scheduling sanity, and confidence boosters. 💪☕Bullet Points to Discuss:-Flexibility is key-Prioritize tough-to-schedule-Use flexible themes-Start with simple routines -Relationships matter-Take initiative and ask questions-Protect your timeHere’s what we learned:Every day looks different. Flexibility is key in a school-based SLP’s routine.Smart scheduling saves sanity. Prioritize tough-to-schedule students first.Mixed groups aren’t a nightmare. Use flexible themes to target multiple goals at once.You don’t need a giant therapy bag. Start with simple routines and icebreakers.Be present, approachable, and proactive with school staff.CF supervision varies. Be prepared to take initiative and ask questions.Batch work, take breaks, and say no when needed.You’re making a difference. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress.Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie shares ideas or end of the year activities for older speech students.In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie’s dishing out easy, breezy end-of-year activities that are big on fun and light on prep! If you’re counting down the days to summer (but still want to sneak in some speech and language goals), you’re in the right place. From reflection games to summer-themed silliness, Hallie shares creative ways to keep your students engaged, talking, and making progress—even when everyone’s brains are halfway to vacation mode. Let’s wrap up the year with style, smiles, and zero stress!Bullet Points to Discuss: Quick reflection activities that secretly target speech goalsTurning interviews into fun conversations and confidence boostersBingo boards that review goals and bring the summer vibesA roll-the-dice game that’s part therapy, part partySummer social scenarios for real-world practice with a sunny twistHow to spice things up with Bamboozle (without spending a dime)Letter-writing that’s reflective and ridiculously fun to mailHere’s what we learned: End-of-year doesn’t mean end of progress—reflection keeps goals aliveActivities can be effective without being fancy or time-consumingPlayful formats like games and interviews keep students motivatedPersonalized tasks like letter writing boost buy-in and self-expressionKeeping therapy light and fun helps everyone finish strongLearn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets