Connect for Success: The Importance of State Associations with Robert McKinney

05/19/25 • 62 min

Guest: Robert McKinney, MA, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Connect-for-Success-The-Importance-of-State-Associations

In this episode of School of Speech, host Carolyn Dolby delves into the critical role state associations play in speech-language pathology. Joined by special guest Robert McKinney, President of the California Speech Language and Hearing Association (CSHA), the discussion covers McKinney's extensive background, the importance of state associations for networking and advocacy, and the valuable connections they foster. The episode also explores how to get involved in these associations, the benefits of professional development, and the impact of advocacy efforts on safeguarding the profession. This engaging conversation aims to inspire and inform both new and seasoned professionals about the numerous opportunities and support available through state associations.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

01:05 Housekeeping and Disclosures

02:21 Bob's Journey into Speech Pathology

03:43 Importance of State Associations

05:26 Networking and Mentorship

06:17 Advocacy and Legislative Efforts

13:13 Engaging with Students and New Professionals

28:03 ASHA's Role and Support

31:39 Introduction to CSAP and Its Importance

32:37 The Power of Networking and Advocacy

34:52 Leadership Development and Foundations

38:12 Challenges and Successes in Advocacy

44:18 Board Structure and Responsibilities

46:22 Commitment and Volunteering in Associations

54:07 Professional Development and Conventions

59:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

Robert (Bob) McKinney, M.A., CCC-SLP, is the author of “Here’s How to Do Accent Modification,” published by Plural Publishing in 2019. He holds MAs in Communicative Disorders, International Relations, and Education. Bob speaks six languages, has lived in six countries, and has worked with clients from over eighty nations. He had a 26-year career in ESL Instruction, including working as a teacher trainer at UCSD’s English Language Institute. He currently works with predominantly bilingual students as the lead SLP at the Sweetwater Union High School District. At San Diego State University, he teaches phonetics and supervises graduate students in the Accent and Communication Training Program. He is the Chair-Elect of the California Speech Language Hearing Association (CSHA) and the Corporate Speech Pathology Network (CORSPAN) co-president.

Guest: Robert McKinney, MA, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Connect-for-Success-The-Importance-of-State-Associations

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

01:05 Housekeeping and Disclosures

02:21 Bob's Journey into Speech Pathology

03:43 Importance of State Associations

05:26 Networking and Mentorship

06:17 Advocacy and Legislative Efforts

13:13 Engaging with Students and New Professionals

28:03 ASHA's Role and Support

31:39 Introduction to CSAP and Its Importance

32:37 The Power of Networking and Advocacy

34:52 Leadership Development and Foundations

38:12 Challenges and Successes in Advocacy

44:18 Board Structure and Responsibilities

46:22 Commitment and Volunteering in Associations

54:07 Professional Development and Conventions

59:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

Previous Episode

Embracing Verbal Diversity: Navigating Stuttering Service Delivery in the Schools with Nina Reeves

-Originally Aired June 5, 2024-

Guest: Nina Reeves, MS, CCC-SLP, BCS-F

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=Embracing-Verbal-Diversity-Navigating-Stuttering-Service-Del

In this episode, we dive into the complexities of stuttering interventions in the school setting. Join us as we explore strategies and best practices for school-based clinicians dedicated to supporting students who stutter. From sensitive assessment techniques to innovative therapy approaches, we uncover valuable insights to foster understanding and empowerment.

About the Guest:

Nina Reeves is a board-certified specialist in fluency differences and the Director of Stuttering Therapy Resources. Nina is a career-long public school clinician specializing in stuttering therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults. As an author and presenter, her goal is to provide practical information to clinicians working with students who stutter.

Next Episode

Collaborative Literacy Support for AAC Users with McKinzee Steve

Guest: McKinzee Steve, MA, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/course?name=collaborative-literacy-support

Join Carolyn Dolby, host of School of Speech by Speech Therapy PD, as she interviews McKinzee Steve, a school-based speech language pathologist renowned for her expertise in AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) programs. In this episode, they delve into 'Collaborative Models for Comprehensive Literacy,' discussing strategies to integrate meaningful literacy opportunities for AAC users. Learn about practical approaches such as the 'AAC Book Club,' station teaching models, and tailored interventions like shared reading and predictable chart writing. Mackenzie shares valuable insights into fostering a collaborative relationship between SLPs and teachers to ensure comprehensive, inclusive literacy instruction for students with significant support needs.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:10 Guest Introduction: McKinzee Steve

00:52 Disclosures and Professional Backgrounds

02:06 McKinzee's Journey into AAC

04:51 Building Capacity and Literacy Initiatives

08:01 Collaborative Literacy Programs

17:38 AAC Book Club: Implementation and Strategies

32:13 Creating a Class Book

33:06 Predictable Chart Writing Explained

35:53 Independent Writing for Students

38:43 Yellow Station: Word Work and Phonological Awareness

43:31 Incorporating AAC in Reading Comprehension

47:08 Adapting Materials for Older Students

54:58 SLP's Role and Time Management

56:37 Resources and Final Thoughts

About the Guest:

McKinzee Steve, MA, CCC-SLP, is a school-based speech language pathologist with experience managing the AAC program for a large urban school district. Her professional interests include AAC, autism, bi/multilingualism, and literacy.