In this episode, the Laurens dive into the topic of chemicals that could be sensitive to your child, discussing the types of products to watch for and how to create a safer environment at home.

Music by:  J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

Logo: RH Designs IG: rhdesigns_30

Shirts: Coffee & Communication IG: @coffee.communication

In the Laurens first live studio recording, they’re joined by special guests Greg Moore and Charles Morris, two leaders in student affairs at their respective institutions. Together, they dive into a powerful conversation about the shifting landscape of DEI in academia. From supporting the academic success of Black students to confronting institutional changes, this episode explores how DEI rollbacks are affecting student affairs programs and what that means for equity in higher education as a whole. 

Special Guests: 

Greg Moore, Director of African American Student Initiatives at Northern Kentucky University 

IG: @gmo1911

Charles Morris, Director of McNair Scholars at University of Alabama Birmingham 

IG: @charlestmorris

Music by:  J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

Logo: RH Designs IG: rhdesigns_30

Shirts: Coffee & Communication IG: @coffee.communication

In this episode, the Laurens share their thoughts on the Netflix documentary "Tell Them You Love Me." They highlight the importance of having a trusted speech-language specialist who can help families navigate and understand the communication needs of their child with unique abilities.

Music by: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Graphic Art by: RH Designs IG: @RHDESIGNS_30

For more information on facilitated communication visit asha.org and type in the search facilitated communication. 

In this episode, the Laurens share their feelings of disappointment over the results of the U.S. election and discuss the impact these outcomes may have. However, they also reflect on the joy and fulfillment brought by the 2024 ASHA Convention, celebrating its powerful energy of inclusivity and community.

Music by: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Graphic Art by: RH Designs IG: @RHDESIGNS_30

In this episode, the Laurens welcome their first guest of the season, Future Dr. Asa Mack! Together, they dive into a powerful discussion on the education system at all levels, unpacking the systemic barriers that have long impacted Black communities. Get ready for an eye-opening conversation filled with insight, truth, and a vision for breaking cycles and building pathways to success.

Special Guest: Asa Mack IG: @therealamack
Shirts: Coffee and Communication IG: @coffee.communication 
Music by: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

Season 4 kicks off with a captivating interview featuring the newly minted Dr. LP! Join Lo as she dives into LP’s incredible journey—exploring the highs that fueled her dreams, the lows that tested her resilience, and everything in between. Don't miss this inspiring conversation to start the season!

New Logo: RH Designs 
Music:  @beatsbyjmerritt (Instagram)
Tshirts: @coffeeandcommunication (Instagram)

As Lo and LP wrap up Season 3, they finish their last episode by discussing their favorite episodes. 

Music by: J Merritt; IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts: Coffee and Communication; IG: @coffee.communication
Follow us on IG @speech_tea

In this episode, Lo leads the conversation of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). She defines SDOH and how there are health inequities in rural and minority communities. 

Music by J.Merritt; IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts  by Ebony Green; IG: @slpcontractsqueen

In this episode, the Laurens discuss Queen Charlotte, a spin off of their favorite Netflix show Bridgerton.  

Shirts: JustPress Tshirts IG: @justpressllc
Music: Beats by J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

In this episode, the Laurens dive into the differences in the treatment and societal perspectives of the Crack "Epidemic" compared to the Opioid Crisis. 

Shirts: Coffee & Communication IG: @coffee.communication
Music: Beats by J Merritt IG: @beatsbyJmerritt

On this episode, the Laurens were blessed to have a vulnerable conversation with a dear friend and colleague, Kyle Greene-Pendelton, on living with ADHD as an adult. In this conversation, Kyle brings an artistic perspective of his life on Adulting  with ADHD.

Guest: Kyle Greene-Pendelton M.S., CCC-SLP IG: @thegreenepen
Music: J. Merritt IG: @Beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts: Target- Black History Month 

In this episode, the Laurens' had Greg Moore as their special guest to talk about First Generation students and success. So...Grab your mug and take a sip of this Speech Tea. 

Music by: JMerritt; IG:beatsbyjmerritt 
Guest: Greg Moore; (Personal) IG,Twitter & TikTok: @gmo1911; (Business) IG & Facebook: @GDMoorePhotography

In this episode, the Laurens talk about the new ASHA DEI requirement, but how some states may present a barrier for practicing clinicians in the schools when trying to implement culturally responsive intervention. 

Shirt: Coffee and Communication IG: @coffee.communication
Music: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

Don't be alarmed by the name...in this episode, the Laurens spark conversation by discussing some "icks" in their field. However, instead of complaining about the challenges, they present solutions on how to solve these challenges.

Music by: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts by: My Pride Apparel @myprideapparel

The Laurens' kick off 2023 with an unreleased episode. The topic is Black Male SLPs and for this episode the Lo Lo and LP bring on two of their friends, Dr. George Castle and Javan Marshall. "So grab your mug and take a sip of Speech Tea..."

In this episode, Lo deconstructs a research study that describes how families in different socioeconmic classes raise their children. Tune in and hear the Laurens' perspective on this interesting topic. Follow the Laurens on Instagram: @speech_tea

Music by: Beats by J. Merritt IG: @beatsjmerritt
Clothing Apparel: My Pride Apparel IG: @myprideapparel
LP sweatshirt: https://myprideapparel.com/products/bhm-squad-goals-sweatshirt
Lo shirt: https://myprideapparel.com/products/our-faces-womens-short-sleeve-t-shirt
Research Study Book Details: https://www.amazon.com/Unequal-Childhoods-Family-Update-Decade/dp/0520271424/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=unequal+childhoods&qid=1667775029&sprefix=unequal%2Caps%2C95&sr=8-1&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.006c50ae-5d4c-4777-9bc0-4513d670b6bc

In this episode, the Laurens get up with their dear friend, Jerrold Jackson, and they dive into the benefits of obtaining the Certificate of Clinical Competence (Cs) in speech pathology and licensure. 

Music by: J Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts: Coffee and Communication 
Special Guest: Jerrold Jackson, M.A., CCC-SLP 
Socials: IG @jjeffjackson; LinkedIn Jerrold Jackson
Business- IG/twitter @roundtreegroup; LinkedIn Roundtree Group PLLC 

In this episode, the Lauren bring on two of LP's friends and they discuss cultural differences and some controversies within the Latinx/Hispanic communities. 

Dr. Sisan Cuervo IG: @siswalk
Dr. Michelle Leon IG: @dance4michey

Music: Beats by JMerritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Sweaters: Pretty Little Things

In this episode, the Laurens discuss Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and it's impact on specific clients they have served or observed. 

Music: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts: Coffee and Communication @coffee.communication

In the episode, the Laurens bring on LP's close friend Jasmine Bailey, who is an occupational therapist. They discuss what occupational therapy is, myths, and other expectations. 

Follow Jasmine on IG: @jaeedb
Music by: Justin Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts: BLACK MINDS MATTER 

For the start of their new season, Lo Lo reveals her big news and the Laurens talk about different terminal degrees while having a vulnerable moment. 

Music by: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt 
Shirts: Just Press LLC IG: @justpressllc

In this episode, the Laurens reflect back and discuss their favorite episodes of Season 2. They also talk about future plans and what is next for listeners to be prepared for in Season 3! 

Music by: Beats by JMerritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt 
Shirts: 2022 NBASLH Convention T-Shirts

In this episode, the Laurens' discuss ways to maximize speech therapy at home by using home routines and materials. Tune and hear the Tea!

Music by Beats by J. Merritt; IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts by My Pride Apparel; Website: myprideapparel.com

On this episode of Speech Tea, the Laurens chat with an amazing educator, Dammarius Thompson, on the affects of the pandemic on education. 

Music by J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts by She Can Teach Too IG: @shecanteachtoo

In this episode, the Laurens' converse about the benefits of attending conventions/conferences of any kind. Tune in and hear what they have to say! 

Music by: Beats by J Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts by 2022 National Black Association for Speech Language and Hearing (NBASLH) convention. 

The Laurens are BACK! In this episode, they catch up on life, discuss Juneteenth, and spill the tea on recent issues that are affecting the Black community and America.  

Music by: @beatsbyjmerritt
Tshirt Apparel: Historically Black Apparel 

In this episode, LP discusses an article with LO on a research study that examined the effects that Cannabis has on speech delays. 

In this episode, the Laurens celebrate their anniversary episode by sharing the listener letters that were sent to them. 

Music by: Beats by J.Merritt  IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

In this episode, The Laurens talk about their work experience after graduating with their Master's degree. Although their experiences relate to speech language pathology, they leave their audience with some great takeaways applicable to all work settings.

Follow them on IG: @speech_tea
Shirts by: Coffee and Communication IG: @coffee.communication
Music by: Beats by J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyJMerrittt

In this episode, the Laurens get a chance to interview Ms. Jasmine Beltran, a speech-pathology graduate student raised by two deaf parents and the owner of the ASL workshop. This discussion brings American Sign Language (ASL), Black ASL, and Black deaf culture to life.

The ASL workshop: IG @theasl.workshop
Speech Tea: IG @speech_tea
Music by J.Merritt IG @beatsbyjmerritt

In this episode, the Laurens discuss how a popular Netflix show depicts Communication Disorders and the characters responses to these communication concerns. 

Music by @beatsbyJmerritt (IG)
Bridgerton & Chill Shirts: @juspressLLC (IG)
Contact Email: speechtea2@gmail.com
IG: @Speech_Tea

Since it is Better Hearing and Speech Month, the Laurens invited audiologist, Dr. Shauntelle Cannon-Williams to discuss hearing health, what volume is appropriate, and how we can protect our ears.

Music by: Beat by J. Merritt  IG: @beatsbyjmerrittt

In this episode, the Laurens have a discussion with Dr. Shameka Stanford about the juvenile justice system and communication disorders. She added to our previous discussion about black children with behaviors, how children end up in the juvenile system, and how SLPs can be a part of the change.  

Dr. Stanford's IG: the_juvenileforensic_slp

Music by: Beats by J. Merritt  IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

The Laurens are back with a topic that is near and dear to their heart: early intervention for kids with Autism. Black children with Autism are diagnosed later than non-black children. Listen in as they talk about Autism in the Black community. 

Being Black with Autism: Parent Workshop
https://www.facebook.com/hear2speakllc/videos/354898672481049/?__so__=channel_tab&__rv__=all_videos_card

Music by:  Beats by J. Merrit IG: @beatsbyjmerrit

In this episode, the Lauren's have their first guest of Season 2 for a chat about the significance and impact of Black Sorority and Fraternity Life in the black community. This episodes features conversations about how Black Greek Life has played a role in networking, support, community, and representation across disciplines. 

Music by Justin Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

In this episode, the Laurens continue to talk about the importance of representation; however, this time they dig a little deeper and talk about the specifics on type of topics presented within therapy and educational settings. 

Shirts by @GodisDope
Music by: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

The Laurens are back with Season 2! They kick-off this season with a special tribute to Black History Month and discuss the importance of representation within different facets of Speech Pathology and Education. 

**Speech Tea do not own the rights to "Celebration by Kool & the Gang"**
Intro and Outro Music by J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

In this episode, the Laurens wrap up their season by talking about their most memorable topics of the season. 

Music by: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Shirts: Pretty Boss LLC IG: @prettybossllc 

In this episode, the Laurens' discuss the importance of reading in the home and how it plays a role in language and literacy development.

Shirts: She Can Teach Too IG: @shecanteachtoo
Music by: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

The Laurens are back  from their 3-week hiatus. In this episode, they talk about work-life balance and being thankful for the small victories. 

* We do not own the rights to the clip featured in this episode*

Shirts: Pledge to the Process  IG @pledgetotheprocess
Music: J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

In this episode, the Laurens were excited to invite their first duo guests Maurice Goodwin and Jason Hall who are SLPs that specialize in voice therapy. Their discussion is centered around voice for the holiday season.

Music by J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
The Laurens shirts by Just Press LLC IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

In this episode, The Laurens go deeper into the topic of the black family structure. They place emphasis on the importance of the black family and the role it has within education and speech therapy. 

Music by J. Merritt IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Featured Music: Higher We Go- Migos (* we do not own the rights to this song*) and NECK-Tennessee State University AOB (* we do not own the rights to this song*)

Attire:  My Pride Apparel IG: @myprideapparel

In this episode, the Laurens invited a special person on the show who has been a vital inspiration in their lives. Dr. Iris Johnson-Arnold is a full professor at Tennessee State University in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. She discusses the importance of mentorship and the various ways mentorship evolves. She created the Speech Tea of the Day: "Diversify your mentor circle."

All Music By: J.Merritt  IG: @beatsbyjmerritt
Tenn State Shirts worn by the Laurens created by Just Press, LLC
IG:  justpressllc

Speech Tea is 3 is our mini-series which highlights terminology in our field. This week, LP explains the term: Language

IG: speech_tea

In this episode, the Laurens discuss the misconception of speech therapy with children. Some of the misconceptions are all we do we play, we cure kids, and it is not a team effort. It takes the parent, teacher, and SLP collaborating to improve a child's communication skills. Speech tea of the day: Get involved and ask questions.


Shirts: coffee.communication 
IG: speech_tea

In this episode, the Laurens invited another amazing SLP named Lauren to the podcast. Lauren Sharpe-Payne is an SLP at the VA. She loves working with adults. She discusses the importance of advocate, health literacy, and building rapport with her patients. She created the speech tea of the day: always advocate for your patient.

Lauren Prather's T-shirt: www.teegold.com IG: @tgoldjohnson

All music by J. Merritt. IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

IG: Speech_tea

On last week's episode, we discussed the importance of having a village. In this episode, we invited our very close friend, Darius Thomas-Wallace. We have formed a close bond personally and professionally. We share some laughs while we talk about how our friendship and its impact on our careers. 

Lauren Prather's T-shirt: _everydayblack
Lauren Hasting's T-shirt: Coffee & Communication 

All music by J. Merritt. IG: @beatsbyjmerritt

IG: Speech_tea

On this episode, we were honored to have our first guest, Dr. Elise Davis-McFarland. She has held several leadership roles within our field. We discussed her journey in leadership and how to be a leader. 

Speech Tea of the Day: If you want a blessing, you have to put yourself in the way of the blessing. 

IG: speech_tea

In this episode, the Laurens discuss the barriers and fears that some black people have when the evaluation of their child is needed to receive special education services. There are several factors such as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), access to healthcare, exposure to environmental toxins, and a history of overrepresentation and neglect from the school system that causes black people to be skeptical about the choices decided for their children in the education arena. 

References:

Meyerson, M. D., & Weddington, G. T. (1986). Syndromes, communicative disorders, and Black children. Journal of the National Medical Association, 78(5), 409-419.

Penchansky, R., & Thomas, J. W. (1981). The concept of access: definition and relationship to consumer satisfaction. Med Care, 19(2), 127-140.

School to Prison Pipeline:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04pcSyzwoTg 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zer6FapK49E 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxUKU8Rtakw 

Follow us on IG at speech_tea

In this episode, the Laurens discuss dialect vs accent and the impact of it on a speech/language evaluation. The field of speech-language pathology uses African American English (AAE) as a term to describe what most people call Ebonics. This conversation is necessary to have as AAE affects communication in a variety of areas such as education, the judicial system, healthcare, and most importantly communication disorders.

References:  

Documentary: Talking Black in America by Walt Wolfram

Article: A Review of Developmental and Applied Language Research on African American Children: From a Deficit to Difference Perspective on Dialect Differences by Ida B. Stockman

Books: Introduction to Ebonics (Amazon); Talking Back Talking Black

Linguistic Podcast: Lexicon Valley- Episode: Language versus Dialect 

Shirt: Coffee & Communication

Join the conversation on our IG page: speech_tea

On this episode, the Laurens discuss the field of speech-language pathology. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, specialty clinics, home health, or skilled nursing facility. An SLP access and treat infants to adults with feeding/swallowing disorders, voice disorders, speech sound disorders, fluency (stuttering), cognitive delays, language impairments, pragmatic (social) skills, augmentative and alternative communication, and aural rehabilitation for people with a hearing loss. Minorities comprise 8% of speech-language pathologists. The Laurens chat about the importance of representation in their field.

Face Shield: Shield Pals https://www.shieldpals.com/

Speech Tea of the day: Be the change you want to see. Start where you are!

"The Laurens" introduce themselves to the podcast world. As they talk about where they are from, their interests, and how they met.

Speech Tea of the day: Don’t be afraid be to build a relationship with people who have similar interests. Remember its better to collaborate than to compete!

IG: speech_tea