Fix SLP: Advocacy & Accountability in Speech-Language Pathology

Latest Episodes:

The Hustle is a Lie Mar 11, 2025

Show notes

Dr. Jeanette Benigas, SLP, discusses the challenges and myths of the hustle culture in the field of speech-language pathology. She reflects on her own burnout and the need for SLPs to reassess their priorities and workloads. Dr. Benigas criticizes ASHA’s role in perpetuating overwork and emphasizes that SLPs’ value is not solely determined by credentials or CEUs. She calls for SLPs to set boundaries, advocate for themselves, and consider the impact of unpaid work.

She also shares her realization that it’s time to take her own advice—setting boundaries, working smarter, and making strategic decisions about where to focus her time and energy. As Fix SLP continues to grow, she’s exploring ways to streamline podcast production and ensure sustainability without compromising the movement’s momentum. If you’re feeling stretched too thin or questioning the never-ending grind, this episode is for you.

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ASHA’s Proposed Certification Revisions: What’s at Stake? Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

Dr. Jeanette Benigas, SLP, Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, and Dr. Tim Stockdale, SLPD, review ASHA’s Call for Peer Review of Proposed Changes to ASHA’s Speech-Language Pathology Certification Standards and explain what these revisions could mean for the field's future. They critically examine proposed changes such as removing undergraduate coursework, adding competencies at the graduate level, and adjusting clinical practicum guidelines. They raise concerns about reducing in-person experience, the risks of allowing fully remote mentorship and fully remote first-time jobs, and the potential consequences for new graduates entering the field.

Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of maintaining rigorous training standards to ensure that SLPs are well-prepared for real-world practice. With real-world experience and strong opinions, they challenge assumptions and highlight what’s at stake for the next-generation clinicians.

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Defying Gravity: The Fight for SLP Freedom Feb 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, host Dr. Jeanette Benigas is joined by Australian speech pathologist Niall Taylor for a powerful discussion that draws striking parallels between the musical production Wicked and the current state of the speech-language pathology profession. Together, they unpack the themes of control, self-liberation, and the fight against restrictive systems—whether it's ASHA in the U.S. or Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) down under.

From the illusion of authority to the struggles of those challenging the status quo, this episode dives deep into what it means to defy gravity in a profession that resists change. Whether you’re an Elphaba fighting for reform or a Glinda navigating within the system, this conversation will make you reflect on your role in shaping the future of SLP.

Listen in, and don’t forget to leave a five-star rating and review to help others find the show!

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SLPs, OTs, and PTs: How Employers Steal Your Wages (And How to Stop It) Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

Are you working extra hours off the clock? Feeling the squeeze from unrealistic productivity quotas? You’re not alone—and it’s time to fight back.

In this episode, Dr. Jeanette Benigas, SLP, and Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, uncover the legal battle that shook the rehab industry. Loy v. Rehab Synergies was a landmark case where clinicians fought back against wage theft—and won. Find out what this case means for you, how to protect yourself from unethical workplace demands, and why keeping good records and a time audit might be your strongest defenses. If you’re tired of being overworked and undervalued, this episode is a must-listen.

If you’ve ever felt trapped by industry norms or scared to speak up, this episode is your rallying cry. You deserve better. Find out how to stand up, document everything, and reclaim your worth. It’s time to fix this broken system—together.

Check out last week's episode: Patients or Profits?

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Patients or Profits? Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Preston Lewis talk with "Polly" (not her real name), a seasoned speech-language pathologist working in a skilled nursing facility who bravely shares her experiences with unethical workplace practices. Polly sheds light on the troubling realities many clinicians face daily, from excessive productivity demands to profit-driven care models that compromise patient outcomes.

The conversation highlights the pressures of maintaining 85% productivity, the challenges of being denied resources like instrumental swallow assessments, and the ethical dilemmas of working within a system prioritizing profit over patient care. Polly discusses her efforts to advocate for herself and her patients while navigating a workplace culture of intimidation and fear of reprisal.

Listeners will learn practical strategies to protect themselves, such as conducting time audits, ensuring proper documentation, and securing private liability insurance. This episode is a powerful call to action for SLPs and healthcare professionals committed to challenging the status quo and fighting for meaningful change.

Listen to Tiffany Moniz's episode, Therapists for Change
Want to earn some PDHs or CEUs with a discount? Find our most up-to-date promo codes and discounts here.

Want to lead or join your state team? Email your name and state to states@fixslp.com.
Become a sustaining partner.
Follow us on Instagram.
Find all our information at fixslp.com and sign up for our email list to be alerted to new episodes and content.
Email us at team@fixslp.com.
Leave a message on our Minivan Meltdown line!

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Thriving in SLP: Mental Health, Connection, and Compassion Jan 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, special guest Ruchi Kapila, MS/SLP, joins Dr. Jeanette Benigas, SLP, to share their powerful mental health journey, openly discussing life with ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. They emphasize the transformative importance of self-care, finding joy in one's work, and leaning on community support.

Beyond personal reflections, this episode explores the need for sustainable practices in the SLP field, the value of mentorship, and the community's power in fostering professional development. Whether you're a seasoned clinician, a new graduate, or someone invested in the future of speech-language pathology, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and a call to action for a better, more supportive future.

Listen to AC Goldberg's episode, I'm Not Dropping the CCC, and Here's Why
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Parents Speak, ASHA Shrugs: A GLP Story Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Fix SLP podcast, Dr. Jeanette Benigas and Elizabeth Nielsen, MA/SLP, are joined by Jessica, a parent and advocate, to discuss Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) and its impact on autistic individuals. The conversation highlights the transformative nature of GLP, the challenges families face in accessing meaningful support, and the systemic barriers posed by outdated practices in speech-language pathology. Jessica shares her concerns about a controversial ASHA convention presentation that disparaged GLP. Jessica reached out to ASHA to share her perspective as a parent, emphasizing the life-changing outcomes of GLP for her child and raising concerns about ASHA’s dismissive response to advocacy efforts from families and clinicians alike. The conversation emphasizes the need for ASHA to address these issues and better support SLPs and their clients.

The three examine ASHA’s role in perpetuating these challenges by failing to prioritize evidence-based practices and the lived experiences of clinicians, families, and autistic individuals. They critique the exclusion of GLP from ASHA’s Practice Portal and explore the broader implications for professional transparency, autonomy, and accountability.

This episode underscores the need for modernization in the field and calls for grassroots advocacy to ensure clinicians and families have access to diverse, evidence-informed approaches. It’s a candid discussion that reflects Fix SLP’s mission to challenge the status quo and push for meaningful change in speech-language pathology.

Listeners are encouraged to engage with the movement by sharing the episode, submitting feedback to ASHA’s board, and supporting sustained advocacy for a more inclusive and equitable future in the field.

Want to lead or join your state team? Email your name and state to states@fixslp.com.

Want to earn some PDHs or CEUs with a discount? Find our most up-to-date promo codes and discounts here.

Become a sustaining partner.
Follow us on Instagram.
Find all our information at fixslp.com and sign up for our email list to be alerted to new episodes and content.
Email us at team@fixslp.com.
Leave a message on our Minivan Meltdown line!

★ Support this podcast ★

Shaking Up States Jan 06, 2025

Show notes

Dr. Jeanette Benigas and cohost Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, are joined by Mikayla Treynor, MA/SLP, to discuss the vital work being done by Fix SLP’s state teams, from addressing Medicaid CCC requirements to educating legislators on the impact of outdated policies. The team emphasizes the importance of persistence, collaboration, and education in driving meaningful change at both state and national levels.

Looking ahead to 2025, Fix SLP has set ambitious goals to expand its efforts, target key states, and continue advocating for systemic reforms that empower clinicians. With updates on current projects and a call for volunteers to join the movement, this episode provides valuable insights and practical steps for those looking to make a difference in the field.

Whether you’re an experienced advocate or just starting to explore these issues, this episode offers a compelling look at how Fix SLP is reshaping the future of SLP, one state at a time.

Want to lead or join your state team? Email your name and state to states@fixslp.com.

Want to earn some PDHs or CEUs with a discount? Find our most up-to-date promo codes and discounts here.

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Just More SLP: Your Vision for the New Year Dec 30, 2024

Show notes

As 2024 comes to a close, join Dr. Jeanette Benigas, SLP, and Preston Lewis, MA/SLP, as they celebrate Fix SLP’s remarkable achievements and share their vision for an empowering 2025. From significant Medicaid credentialing changes to progress in eliminating barriers like the CCC requirement, they reflect on the year’s milestones and discuss their excitement for the road ahead.

This episode features heartfelt wishes from listeners for the future of the field, actionable advice for clinicians at all career stages, and an inspiring call to elevate SLP voices, advocate for autonomy, and foster community. Jeanette and Preston discuss plans for a revamped website, a growing team, and expanded volunteer engagement, emphasizing the importance of resilience, collaboration, and meaningful change.

Whether you’re a seasoned SLP or just starting your journey, this episode will leave you energized and ready to help shape the future of the profession. Let’s fix SLP—together.

Want to earn some PDHs or CEUs with a discount? Find our most up-to-date promo codes and discounts here.

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Money Talks, ASHA Whispers Dec 23, 2024

Show notes

Dr. Jeanette Benigas, SLP, Preston Lewis, MS/SLP, and Elizabeth Nielsen, MA/SLP, examine the financial landscape of speech-language pathology, highlighting ASHA's $65 million in cash reserves and $71 million in investments. They critique ASHA's spending priorities, including minimal investment in lobbying, and question how these funds could better support clinicians and the profession. Jeanette provides updates on the Fix SLP team's CCC and ASHA membership status, illustrating the team's commitment to autonomy and professional choice. This episode emphasizes the importance of systemic change, transparency, and grassroots advocacy to build a stronger future for SLPs.

Want to earn some PDHs or CEUs with a discount? Find our most up-to-date promo codes and discounts here.

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