Designing AAC Supports with Students with Madison Brumbaugh

January 21, 2026

Designing AAC Supports With Students In this episode of More Than Words, we sit down with Madison Brumbaugh, M.S., CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist and clinical assistant professor at The George Washington University whose work focuses on supporting individuals with complex communication needs. Madison has experience serving clients across the lifespan and working in public schools,…

SLPs Talk Dyslexia: Myths, Gaps, and What They Wish They Learned

December 10, 2025

Episode Summary In this powerful episode, we’re unpacking what Speech-Language Pathologists really know, and wish they knew, about dyslexia. After interviewing dozens of SLPs and graduate students at the 2024 ASHA Convention, we discovered clear themes: misinformation, missing training, personal stories of struggle and resilience, and a deep desire for better tools to support dyslexic…

Supporting Independent Learners with Karyn Ewart

December 3, 2025

Episode Summary In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, Tristen sits down with Karyn Ewart, licensed clinical psychologist and Founder of The Sycamore School, for a rich conversation about what it really takes to raise independent, resilient learners. Drawing from decades of experience as a school psychologist, therapist, clinical director, and…

Exploring Co-Treatment in Speech Therapy: Insights from Dr. Lauren Buford

August 13, 2025

Episode Overview In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, host [Your Name or Podcast Host] speaks with Dr. Lauren Buford, President and CEO of The KCB Play Institute in West Springfield, VA. Dr. Buford is an expert in helping neurodivergent children — especially those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) — develop…

Building Mental Toughness in Athletics & Beyond with Brendan Danker

May 7, 2025

In today’s episode, we’re talking to Certified Mental Performance Consultant® (CMPC), Brendan Danker, about the essential topic of Building Mental Toughness in Athletics and beyond. We discuss the significance of mental toughness for young athletes and explore effective training methods to enhance it. Brendan shares insights on fostering sport confidence, overcoming self-doubt, managing nerves during…

ADHD & Dyslexia with Dr. Leslie Hawkins

March 26, 2025

In today’s episode, we’re talking to Dr. Leslie Hawkins about ADHD & Dyslexia. Dr. Hawkins is a licensed clinical psychologist in Chantilly, Virginia. She specializes in evaluating and assessing educational/learning difficulties (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), ADHD and executive functioning, and cognitive impairment, as well as psychological and neuropsychological difficulties. Today we will answer these questions:…

Parenting an Anxious Child with Dr. Samantha Sweeney

January 29, 2025

In today’s episode, we’re talking to Dr. Samantha Sweeney about Parenting an Anxious Child. Dr. Sweeney is a licensed psychologist in the DC Metro Area. She works with students of all ages at her practice Family Psychological Services of Capitol Hill. Today we will answer these questions: Links and Resources: More about Dr. Sweeney Dr.…

What Comes After A Dyslexia Diagnosis with Daniela Feldhausen

December 18, 2024

In today’s episode, we’re talking to Daniela Feldhausen about what happens after a dyslexia diagnosis. Daniela is a reading specialist who owns Kids Up Reading Coaches, a practice of reading and dyslexia tutors. The practice is entirely virtual, meaning students from anywhere can receive their services. Today we will answer these questions: Links and Resources:…

Shared Reading with Toni Walters

December 4, 2024

In today’s episode, we’re talking to Toni Walters about Shared Reading. Toni is a Speech-Language Pathologist in the DMV area. She is an assistant professor at the University of DC in their Speech-Language Pathology program. Today we will answer these questions: Links and Resources: Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so…

Cultivating a Positive Mindset for School with John Thomas

September 4, 2024

In today’s episode, we’re talking to John Thomas about Cultivating a positive mindset for school. Mr. Thomas is a former classroom teacher in the northern Virginia area. He specializes in creating positive and fun learning environments to build students up and help them achieve their best potential. John is now a tutor in the area…