Diary of an SLT

PODCAST · education

Diary of an SLT

After 10 years working within the NHS as a speech and language therapist, I left to lecture to the undergrads at Ulster university while starting my independent practice, Let’s Expand Communication. Eight years later, come join me on my mission to provide an unfiltered journey into unknown dimensions of SLT. I’ll have day to day passionate conversations with speech and language therapists, who share their thoughts on all things business, clinical, and professional about their vocation. Thank you for listening.IG: https://www.instagram.com/lec.slt.teamIG: https://www.instagram.com/sltruthni

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    #46: "Inclusion, Diversity, Communication and Human Connection Drive my Work

    Sunita Shah, founder of Together Let's Communicate [TLC] chats with Ruth about her career journey to date.Having started in a very mixed NHS post post graduation Sunita now runs her independent practice specialising in supporting children and young people with speech, language, social, emotional and communication difficulties. Sunita opens up about why she loves working with teenagers in particular and how she feels called to support them, when they would otherwise have no support in their lives. As well as her practice Sunita likes to bring her heritage into her work, and has written several publications called the "Jai Jais". Her latest publication "Talkology" is due to be released in July! [ watch this space]You can follow Sunita via her LinkedIn profile and find out more about her publication via her TLC website and also her website promoting "The Jai Jai's"

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    #45: "Forty years qualified and I still adore what I do!"

    I was honoured to be joined by Mary Heritage for episode 45 of the podcast. Mary is well known within the field of Speech and Language due to her vast career journey to date. Throughout this episode Mary's love of the profession shines. She talks about where she started post graduation and how this has mapped out her pathway to date. Now an author and coach to many, she has a carved out opportunities that many of us would dream of achieving. You can also find out more about Mary and her books / practice via the following links:My  coaching practice: Career Pivots & Finding Work Life Balance - Mary Heritage - Coach & MentorAnd to order her books: For publication July 2026: Becoming a Speech and Language Therapist: An Essential Guide for StudentsMentoring for Speech and Language Therapists: Unlocking Professional Development throughout your careerMary's LinkedIn profile Mary Heritage | LinkedIn

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    #44: "Inclusive Communication isn't just a physical thing"

    In episode 44 I get an opportunity to chat all things communication boards with the Inclusive Communication Solutions Team. Laura, Kelly and Suzanne explain how their joint business venture came about organically in 2024 through conversations in the years leading up. The ladies share their individual backgrounds, working weeks and how their business is going at the moment. They have big dreams for the future and it is lovely to hear how their unique communication boards are starting to pop up around the country.You can follow the team via their instagram profile and on their individual LinkedIn pages: Laura, Suzanne, and KellyIf you would like more information about buying a communication board you can access their website here.

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    #43: "Growing my Business one Idea at a Time!"

    Nicky West joined Ruth for a chat. Nicky set up New Options Speech and Language Therapy in Hull 12 years ago and as you will here things are going from strength to strength for her. Nicky chats about her journey into SLT at the age of 25, and where the SLT journey has lead her to date. She is a huge advocate for supporting this profession, by sharing her passion with students at secondary level education. She also has a merchandise shop via her website, for all things 'SLT' inspired .You can follow Nicky via LinkedIn and InstagramShe also sells her lovely 'merch' via https://www.new-options.co.uk/category/all-products

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    #42: "Being neuroaffirming has become a priority in my practice"

    What a lovely episode as Ruth was joined by Ellie Brown, Independent SLT.Ellie is quite new to the world of IP but shares how much this has benefited her young family.Ellie is very passionate about delivering strength-focused, person-centred support, with all methods of communication considered as valid and equal. She is very proud to be a neuroaffirming practitioner, recognising that neurodivergent people have unique strengths, interests and support needs. Listen Ellie chat about her working week and her future plans. You can follow Ellie via LinkedIn and Instagram

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    #41: "The Early Years ignite my passion as an SLT"

    Sarah Corey, Speech and Language Therapist in NI, joined Ruth for this latest episode of Diary of an SLT. Sarah has literally just left her NHS role to go into full time independent work within her business mid ulster speech therapy, so finds herself juggling this alongside being mummy to her two beautiful children.She talks so openly and honestly about this transition, her passion for early intervention in under 3s and also her future aspirations when she find the time!Sarah also gives insight into an award she won last year in her local area - she was shocked, Ruth was not!You can follow Sarah on instagram and LinkedIn

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    #40: "Read, write, ink - I have the best job in the world!"

    Ali Battye, SLT / Author / AAC Specialist and GLP advocate spoke with Ruth in this latest episode . Ali shares her love of this profession as it wasn't her initial career pathway, however she has had her full circle moment and is using her love of writing in the 4 books she has published.Ali is constantly finding joy in her work with the schools, families and professional colleagues throughout her week. This is open, honest and wholesome throughout.You can also follow Ali via LinkedIn and instagramLatest book can be accessed via AmazonIf you enjoy this episode why not comment and give Ali some feedback.

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    #39: My 'Fuzzy Felt Brain' is a game changer in therapy sessions.

    Season 4 kicks off with a wholesome chat between Ruth and Elizabeth McBarnet.Elizabeth explains are choice of career as an SLT and how her love of working with adults grew once she set up her own independent practice. Elizabeth's openness throughout the chat show how every decision as her career progressed allowed her to be the mum her girl's needed as well as giving her the opportunity to continue to be the SLT she wanted.You can follow Elizabeth via her Linkedin profile

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    #38: "When I was 6 yrs old Helen Keller inspired me, that led me into this career!"

    Kate Reader joined me on this last episode of season 3. Kate oozes love of her career and chatted in detail about her love of all things AAC and as well as the new job she started at AT Therapy in September this year.Kate was also a recipient of an award through Communication Matter which she shares about, as well as her amazing scholarship opportunity coming up in 2026. Have a listen to Kate, you'll not regret giving this half a hour of your time. Follow Kate via at instagram handles as well as https://www.instagram.com/communi_k8/

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    #37: "SLP in BC - Helping me thrive with less burnout and more joy"

    Our first international guest! Wow and thank you to Claire Allen for joining Ruth to chat all things SLP in Vancouver.Claire discusses her journey as an SLP to date and how she went independent two years ago.Claire focuses her practice on "less burnout and more joy" both for herself and the families she works with. You can follow Claire via her instagram profile

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    #36: "Writing a book was never on my radar: then it just happened!"

    Joined by Ruth Jones, Speech and Language, who talks all things career pathway post graduation to her present day working week. Ruth is heavily promoting neurodiversity affirming practice and as a result wrote her book "Neurodiversity- Affirming Practice for Speech and Language Therapists: Supporting Curiosity, Compassion and Conversation" which hit the shops in September this year.Ruth also talks about why she decided to study SLT at university and then opted not to go down the NHS route post qualification. Open, honest and oozing a love of the profession, this is a must listen to episode.Follow Ruth via instagram and LinkedIn

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    #35: "See you later laminator, the tag line that has taken off for our business"

    In this episode I am join by Vanessa Woodall, Speech and Language Therapist & business owner. Vanessa along with her husband Dave set up 'Symplify' to support SLTs when making resources. Vanessa talks me through the development of the business and how it all started out. This is an open conversation about another string to the SLT skillset and how a small area of interest can develop into so much more.You can find out more about Simplify and give their free trial a go via this linkYou can also follow them on instagram and LinkedIn

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    #34: "The doors just opened so I moved to NI for my dream job!"

    Sophie Whitehead, Highly Specialist SLT in Palliative Care within the SHSCT spoke to Ruth about her current role and how this lead to a move across the Irish Sea!Ruth also delved into finding out more about the Churchill Fellowship which funded Sophie to travel across the globe and keep a palliative care blog as she did. Sophie is very passionate about what she does and shares this freely as we chatted.Sophie can be contacted via her LinkedIn profile

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    #33: My caseload still contains adults and paeds - I can't give either up!

    Laura Keeling is chatting with me in this episode. She has continued to work with both adults and paediatric clients within her independent practice .She talks about why she loves both clients groups so much. Laura also highlights the variety in her working week, and how she liaises with a wealthy of services to support the holistic needs of her caseload. This is an insightful discussion into a busy SLT practice.You can find out more about Laura via instagram , her website and linkedin

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    #32: "Don't give Up! I interviewed 3 times for the PHA before I got the job I love!"

    In this episode, Alison Ferris, Allied Health Professionals (AHP) Consultant at Public Health Agency (PHA) in Northern Ireland joined me for a chat. Alison is 25 years qualified as an SLT and she talks honestly about all the roles that led her to take up a position within the PHA.Alison shares about her working week and how two working weeks never look the same, but she loves that about her current role. Alison has can access via LinkedIn and is always up for having a chat about the diversity of this profession.Alison also talks about the RCSLT Hub of which she has been a member for 10[ish] years. This episode's very much worth a listen.

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    #31: Working within the Justice System isn't everyones cup of tea!

    In this episode I meet Rachel Cohen, who now describes herself as a register intermediary and intuitive coach. Rachel qualified as an SLT and soon discovered a passion for criminal justice work. She set up a not for profit cooperative which is thriving - https://theintermediarycooperative.co.uk/conference/Rachel is so open during our chat and provided top tips for any professionals interested in moving into criminal justice work.Rachel can be follow on LinkedIn and InstagramThe IFJ website can be accessed here

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    #30: SLT Stories and years of experience to share!

    Ruth had a good chat with Jan Baerselman in this latest episode. Jan is a seasoned SLT who has specialised in supporting children with SLCN in education settings for most of her career – around 20 years in the NHS and 10 years in the independent sector.  She spends half her working week providing professional supervision & support to Independent SLTs and specialist school staff.The other half of her time is dedicated to voluntary, profession-supporting activities such as work for RCSLT, action research, providing workshops & webinars and her podcast series ‘SLT Stories’ available on Spotify. Launched in 2024, @SLTStories is where she downloads her wisdom and pivotal stories from her career into bite-sized, accessible, insightful podcasts - recently inviting ex-clients to talk about their SLT journey. A pioneer in providing innovative practice education experiences for SLT students, she speaks nationally about encouraging Independent Practitioners to involve students in their practice to improve what they can offer to clients. You can find out more about Jan, link in with her and follow her via:- Direct link to SLT Stories podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rpSPD3JdokHz8XIsaN7H3?si=c2b528ddf1d24fe0- Instagram - @SLTStories Jan Baerselman (@sltstories) • Instagram photos and videos- Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-baerselman-a3085b65- Website: www.talkingoutcomes.co.uk- Email: [email protected]

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    #29: "SLT has enabled me to incorporate my love of musical theatre into my working week"

    Marissa Webb from The Orchid Practice joined me on this episode to discuss her move from the USA to the UK many years ago. Marissa talks about the change from her original post school plan of going into musical theatre and how that lead to her career as an SLT. As you listen you will find out more about Marissa's passions throughout her working week, as she discusses her current campaign around ACC access for all in the UK, as well as her dream for writing children's books. To find out more about Marissa you can follow her via:instagram and linkedinYou can also order Marissa's book via amazon

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    #28: "Variety in a working week is so achievable as an SLT!"

    Ruth chatted with Charmaine Tearle from April Cottage Therapies in this latest episode. Not only running her own therapy business, but Charmaine is also the current Treasurer in the ASLTIP Executive Board.Charmaine shares much about her journey as an SLT thus far, and also highlights some aspirations she has over the next five years. Such a lovely episode for anyone who is still curious about how much variety us SLTs can have in our working week. You can follow Charmaine on instagram and linkedIn Find our more about ASLTIP here too

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    #27: "Constantly pushing myself to do more!"

    We have reached a milestone! The podcast is a year old, and to celebrate the microphone was flipped. In this episode Ruth drafted in Ruth Sedgewick from RCSLTNI and episode 1 fame, to ask the questions and find out more about our usual host!Over the last two seasons many guests have asked Ruth C when she would be a guest on her own podcast, so we thought the start of season 3 was the perfect spot to meet their requests.Ruth C has plenty to share and Ruth S had plenty of questions to ask…so have a listen and see what you think about this comedy double act!Ruth C can be contacted via both instagram and Linked In Ruth S can be contacted via both instagram and Linked In

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    #26: "A seed was planted that led me into SLT"

    Emma Ahern, owner of Zebra Therapy, joined Ruth for this latest episode and what a great chat they had!Emma was very open about her journey into SLT and how it was her initial plan, after starting a degree in animal studies at Queen's University….however thanks to an opportune moment with a colleague in a care home she explore the SLT profession and finally completed her Masters at Essex University. In 2016 Emma then began working in an independent practice and the rest as they say, is history. She is all over instagram with her honest reels and neuro affirming posts about the passionate works that now fills her week.To follow Emma and find more about all the amazing project ideas she has, as well as how her ECG rosource develops, you can find her via:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeebratherapy/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-ahern-b0a2758a/

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    #25: Speech Buddies: Building my Team

    Well this was a fun one! Ruth chats to Emma Harrison, Clinical Director at Speech Buddies in the North East of England. Emma talks about her love of building her team over the last 5 years, and how she started working as an assistant on a speech therapy team before plunging into the speech therapy degree.Emma is also very much into mindfulness as she works, allowing time for herself, while building her brand. Have a listen to her honest insight into everything she has achieved over the last 20 years. You can also follow Emma on social media via:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speechbuddiesuk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-harrison-ba-hons-msc-rcslt-hpcp-asltip-81185243/

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    #24: Helping children find their voice!

    Kate Burgess joined Ruth this week, but who is Kate? Owner of "we can commikate" and founder of "Pippin Speech" App, Kate talks candidly to Ruth about why she set up her independent practice post lockdown, and then how this lead to the creation of her app to support parents and caregivers with key tools to develop communication at home. During this conversation Kate is open about how she is constantly learning and developing her skillset, also that her business will grow as children's needs develop. She wants to be that voice of "early intervention" for so many families. Kate is a busy bee, due to juggling both these businesses alongside being a mummy of two!To find out more about Kate you can follow her on instagram:https://www.instagram.com/pippinspeech/https://www.instagram.com/wecancommunikate/As well as LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-burgess-7a7973144/You can also check out her websites:https://www.wecancommunikate.co.uk/about-ushttps://www.pippinspeech.com

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    #23: Living and breathing "STAMMA"

    Kirsten Howells, SLT and Deputy CEO & Services Director at STAMMA joined Ruth this week. During this wholesome conversation between the pair, Kirsten opens about about her personal experience of stammering, and how this lead her to train as an SLT. Training as an SLT then opened a huge number of opportunities for her, and she talks about her work other part of the world one the years. Kirsten is so passionate about her current role, and this comes across through her chat with Ruth.You can following Kirsten via her LinkedIn profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirsten-howells-787ba7b/You can find out more about STAMMA via: https://www.instagram.com/stammauk/https://stamma.org

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    #22: SLT Apprenticeship - what is it all about?

    During this episode Ruth chats with Jessie Kinchin, who is currently in her second year of the apprenticeship degree programme through BCU. SLT apprenticeship programme are currently only available in England, however it is hoped these will roll out across the country in the next number of years.Jessie talks openly about her path into the programme and how she has found the balance between studying, being on placement and also holding down a job to pay her way throughout the week. You can follow Jessie on her instagram handle: https://www.instagram.com/jkinchin/You can also find out more about SLT apprenticeship programmes via https://www.rcslt.org/speech-and-language-therapy/become-a-speech-and-language-therapist/apprenticeships/

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    #21: Encouraging Communication through Tummy Time!

    Ruth took a different direction on this weeks episode having a chat with Ashley Boal, Occupational Therapist and founder of Let's Talk Sensory in NI. Ashley made a decision during her maternity leave to set you a parents group called "Tummy Timers" to encourage parents about the huge benefits of tummy time with their newborns. Ashley opens up about how OT wasn't her initial pathway but that she soon knew it was her calling. Ruth and Ashley have an honest conversation in this episode so why not have a listen....Ashley can be followed via her social media accounts:- instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tummytimersballymena/- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-boal-647384bb/- Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/people/Lets-Talk-Sensory-NI/61558928881855/

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    #20 "Supporting Communication through Joy and Connection!"

    Bryony Rust, Independent SLT and author of "How to Help Non Speaking Children in the Early Years" joined Ruth this episode. What a treat for Ruth! Ruth has been a huge fan of Bryony since Covid in 2020 - Bryony was bossing teletherapy through the pandemic ensuring families across the country had support when they most needed it. In this episode Bryony chats about her journey into SLT and how she has always been fascinated about "communication". She also provides insight into the paths she took to write her first book which is now on sale. Have a listen as Bryony tells all....Bryony's website can be accessed via https://www.saltbythesea.comShe can be found on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/salt_bythesea/ and LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryonyrust/For anyone wanting to purchase her book you can find it on https://www.amazon.co.uk/Help-Non-Speaking-Children-Early-Years/dp/1032295198/ref=sr_1_1?crid=O11IYUBV7HKW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Mmrs9yIKr7JsageESvBguVylppDgyvY3OrRhy8ErdfGHVtaGW80QLp2HgEdpJf-E.vsK9JPm_UUBWTfXVPG5oUfr4DxYUcumqtkZbtXtjyIA&dib_tag=se&keywords=how+to+help+non-speaking+children+in+the+early+years&qid=1743344821&sprefix=how+to+help+non%2Caps%2C102&sr=8-1

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    #19: Diving into Independent Practice after a few years working in Australia.

    Emma Sharrock, owner of Core Speech caught up with Ruth to explain why the move to Australia post Covid really inspired her to start her independent practice when she returned home. Emma is a force in the field of AAC and has set up a shop element to her website so that anyone can give AAC a go at minimal expense. Have a listen as Emma explains all. Emma's website can be accessed via this linkFollow Emma's instagram page hereShe can also be found on linkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-sharrock/

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    #18: Bossing GLP and APD from my Speech Den!

    What can we really say about Cathy Shilling? Owner of The Speech Den, proactive in her field at ensuring all SLTs know as much as possible about GLP, and all round lovely person who wants to make communication key in everyone's life.Ruth had an opportunity to chat with Cathy last month, when she gained "hot off the press" information about her future conferences running the UK, her general practice development and what she loves about being an SLT in clinical practice. Have a listen and find out more. For more information about Cathy you can access her website here Her linkedIn profile hereHer instagram page here

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    #17 CEO of RCSLT and Striving to Ensure the Profession is taken Seriously

    Ruth had the opportunity to chat with Steve Jamieson, CEO at RCSLT last month. Steve is approaching his second year of being in post and it was an opportunity for Ruth to find out what he has been enjoying, what challenges have arisen as well as finding out why he applied for the role in the first place.  Steve talks really openly about his love of the RCSLT and how he enjoys getting to meet members right across the UK.  Have a listen as the CEO explains why he believes there should be more SLTs in leadership roles, and how our profession is more diverse than the public acknowledge.  RCSLT link: https://www.rcslt.org/ Steve’s LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-jamieson-41776130/

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    #16: Bossing the Business World by Combining my SLT and Montessori Degrees!

    Episode 16 gave Ruth the opportunity to chat with Sarah Kelly, Speech and Language Therapist and owner of Playeasy.ie.  Sarah is combining her Montessori teaching degree  and Masters in Speech and Language to provide independent SLT session in Dublin, while creating and selling educational toys to support early development skills in children. She is bossing it! Sarah is passionate about her business, this shines throughout the episode. She is also honest about how hard running a business can be during a pandemic.  You can follow Sarah via her Instagram page @playeasy.ie Her lovely toys her sold via her website: https://www.playeasy.ie Sarah is also in LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-kelly-3325b318/

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    #15: Let’s talk PhD as an SLT!

    On the latest episode Ruth talks to Jodie Mills PhD researcher in Speech and Language Therapy at Ulster University.Jodie talks openly about her decision to continue her studies post graduation from her undergraduate degree. She is so passionate about her current research alongside Parkinson’s UK.She discusses her top tips for anyone considering doing further research in their field, as well as the highs & lows throughout her journey to date. You can find out more about Jodie’s research via Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-m-3228b9307/ She also has a linktree option to stay up-to-date with her research - https://linktr.ee/JodieMills Jodie also talks about her work with https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/

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    #14 NI Fire and Rescue Service with Communication Access!

    This week Ruth chats with Pete Bradley, Watch Commander with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. Pete talks openly about his stammer, and why this lead him to make communication access training mandatory with the fire and rescue service here. He also highlights what drove him to start up Belfast Stammer Support Group with his mate Jamie. Useful links: Find Pete via Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-bradley-2a5751157/ Find out more about Communication Access UK - https://communication-access.co.uk Find out more about Belfast Stammer Support Group - https://www.belfaststammersupport.com

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    #13: Combining SLT and ACT [ Acceptance & Commitment Therapy] in my everyday practice.

    Maeve Lappin, Independent SLT and Clinical Behavioural Analyst chats with Ruth about her career journey. Maeve has done it all! From graduating in NI, to taking up post on Scotland, then flying off to Australia to work in the outback....you'd think that was enough. However, she then returned to NI to work in trust locally before taking up a lecturing post in Ulster University. During her time lecturing she deciding to add to her bow and become a Clinical Behavioural Analyst, most recently adding ACT [ Acceptance and Commitment Therapy] into her daily practice. Maeve talks so openly about the challenges she has faced, but also the joy she has in supporting adults who stammer. To follow Maeve, you can do so via instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maevelappinslactt/ And to find out more about ACT you can check our her course via Course Beetle: https://coursebeetle.co.uk/presenters/maeve-lappin/

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    #12: App developing and SLT = a good combination for me!

    Lorraine Curran, SLT & Owner of Aptus Speech Therapy talks to Ruth about her journey from graduation. Lorraine started in an adult role, but upon returning to Ireland has focused on paediatrics. Now settled in Dublin she splits her week between independent clients and further app development.Over the years Lorraine has created a suite of apps for both adults and paediatrics. At present she is updating ‘Articulation Arcade’ and ‘Minimal Pairs Arcade’.You can follow Lorraine on Instagram via https://www.instagram.com/aptus_speech_therapy?igsh=Ymtrd3NqZm4wODMyHer website also provides an opportunity to find out more about her appshttps://www.aptus-slt.comThis episode shows just how diverse our profession can be!

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    #11: From Undergraduate to NQP!

    Dearbhla Taylor, newly qualified SLT, joins Ruth to talk all things university, placements and graduation. She is really open and honest throughout, explaining how the course had it's challenges and also how she gained confidence, which stands her in good stead as she embarks on her first SLT post within the Belfast Trust, here in NI. Dearbhla can also be found on LinkedIn via: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dearbhla-taylor-903996318/

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    #10: Just 3 things..... why did I become a podcaster?

    Charlotte Hall, fellow podcaster and speech & language therapist joined Ruth in this episode, to talk about her SLT journey to date. Charlotte's journey has taken her in many directions - NHS work, independent practice and the creation of her podcast "Just 3 things...." This episode highlights how we, speech and language therapists, can set out goals that ensure the work / life balance is achieved in a way that suits us. To find out more about Charlotte you can follow her via: https://www.instagram.com/speechtherapywithcharlotte/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-hall-a412a6293/ and also listen to her podcast via https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/just-3-things/id1691059907 https://open.spotify.com/episode/5zSGAetXYBSM2zMsDGy5YE?si=v9rdr_ZnR5mxywN_Z6EnHw

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    #9: Taking SLT outside the UK

    Sarah Lyons, owner of SL Therapy London & Dubai, chats to Ruth in detail, about how her vision from 11 years ago came into fruition during lockdown in 2020. Sarah talks all things NHS, independent practice, grabbing opportunities in medico-legal work and taking on the role of Chair of ASLTIP in 2017. You can follow Sarah and her business via the following links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-lyons-sltherapylondon/https://www.instagram.com/sltherapy_/https://www.sltherapylondon.com

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    #8: Seeing things from the other side, my journey from clinician to mummy.

    Gemma McNally, SLT and mummy to Clara and Caleb chats to Ruth about her role in Surestart SEHSCT in NI, and their creation of an early intervention book "I wonder...." for local families.With this month being Down Syndrome Awareness month, Gemma speak honestly about her journey with Caleb who was born with Down Syndrome and how she initially went into clinician mode when he arrived . She also shares about the support she receives from https://positiveaboutdownsyndrome.co.ukhttps://www.down-syndrome.org/en-gb/https://www.downs-syndrome.org.ukAnd the charity she is now involved with which can be followed / supported on instagram - @Together21niYou can also follow Gemma on instagram via @gemma_makatontutor

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    #7: My daughter lead to the creation of KINVA Health

    Michelle Connor from Kinva Health talks to Ruth about how her daughter's diagnosis of a rare genetic condition at 14 months lead her on a very different career pathway than she had planned at the age of 18. Michelle's honest, passionate and eloquent discussion of Kleefstra Syndrome comes across throughout this episode: it is the reason she now heads up her innovative business supporting therapists via an AI enhanced app. Follow Michelle on LinkedIn and Instagram [ @kinvahealth ] as well as via her website https://kinva.health More details on Kleefstra Syndrome can be found via this link

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    #6: I'm on the RCSLT Board of Trustees, but I'm not an SLT!

    Sundeep Sidhu, RCSLT Trustee, joins Ruth to chat about being involved with speech and language therapists at board level. New to his role in November 2023, Sundeep talks candidly about why he applied foe his role on the board of trustees, what he has learnt already and what he is bringing to his role. He talks passionately about his background in design thinking and how he brings strategic based questions to all our board meetings. Follow Sundeep on LinkedIn and Instagram [ @sundeepuk ] *this episode was recorded on 7/8/2024

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    #5: Using AI to enhance my therapy session and enthuse others.

    Have you seen the hype about AI? Are you using it in your therapy? Well I guarantee after listening to Rachel Barton in the latest episode you'll be jumping to learn more!Rachel shares her wisdom of integrating AI into her therapy sessions, she is even delivering training to SLTs to share all her new skills using the AI based platforms. This is an episode not to be missed!!Specific links mentioned by Rachel today The chapter Rachel has written in this book is "Going it Alone: Being a Supervisee and Supervisor in Independent Practice (and what I have learnt in the process about being human)". The book is "Supervision in Speech and Language Therapy Personal Stories and Professional Wisdom:https://www.routledge.com/Supervision-in-Speech-and-Language-Therapy-Personal-Stories-and-Professional-Wisdom/Sparkes-Simpson-Harding/p/book/9781032293424This is where people can buy tickets to Rachels' workshops: https://chatterboxsussex.eventcube.io/eventsThis has more info about Rachel's workshops: https://www.chatterboxsussex.com/aiworkshopsSERVE blog: https://www.chatterboxsussex.com/post/getting-the-best-service-from-generative-ais-the-serve-prompt-frameworkWordMango blog: https://www.chatterboxsussex.com/post/how-can-ai-support-young-people-with-dldhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562572211624The page is just "Rachel Barton Speech and Language Therapist"

  43. 5

    #4: From NHS to IP, what a journey!

    Cara Bethell, diver into the independent sector joins Ruth to share her journey to date. Cara explains that she started on a very different undergraduate degree pathway, but ended up where she always wanted to be. Cara runs Chatterblox Therapy in Surrey and is the current Conference Director on the ASLTIP Board.

  44. 4

    #3: AAC, Feeling enthusiastic!

    Sarah Alderman- Reilly joins Ruth to share her passion for Alternative, Augmentative Communication [ AAC ]. Sarah is encouraged by the new enthusiasm from SLTs to learn more about an area of the profession she loves. Sarah runs "A Grain of SALT NI" from home but started her career in Blackpool.

  45. 3

    #2: Mixing singing, signing and SLT!

    In today's episode Ruth chats with Alex McNeill, SLT and Sing & Sign Leader in NI. Alex talks about her decision to move from an NHS role into independent practice, as she set up her sing and sign groups locally. To find out more about sing and sign click here

  46. 2

    #1: Leadership as an SLT!

    Ruth Sedgewick from the RCSLT NI Office joins me to discuss all things leadership in the profession, starting a new role during the COVID pandemic and her SLT journey to date. For more information about the New RCSLT Leadership mentioned in this episode click here

  47. 1

    What is it all about? Why do a podcast?

    Hi I’m Ruth - Speech & Language Therapist, Business owner, Board of Trustee member at RCSLT, Trainer, Supervisor, Runner and someone who likes to stay busy. Welcome to my podcast!

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

After 10 years working within the NHS as a speech and language therapist, I left to lecture to the undergrads at Ulster university while starting my independent practice, Let’s Expand Communication. Eight years later, come join me on my mission to provide an unfiltered journey into unknown dimensions of SLT. I’ll have day to day passionate conversations with speech and language therapists, who share their thoughts on all things business, clinical, and professional about their vocation. Thank you for listening.IG: https://www.instagram.com/lec.slt.teamIG: https://www.instagram.com/sltruthni

HOSTED BY

Ruth

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