Awe and Wonder Podcast: AAC & AT

Brad is not just a Neuralink participant; he is currently the only nonverbal communicator among the eleven individuals implanted with this revolutionary brain-computer interface. Living with ALS, Brad has navigated life for years relying on various Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems. Join us as Brad shares his extraordinary journey, which is a powerful testament to resilience, adaptation, and the unwavering human desire to communicate. Awe and Wonder AAC & AT Podcast https://specialedtechcenter.com/awe-and-wonder-s8/ Air Date: 11/19/25   Clock Hour Required Additional Viewing Please note: You must watch the supplemental video linked below to qualify for clock hours. Nonverbal ALS Patient Uses Neuralink to Create & Narrate Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJn0WRKwg34

In this episode of the podcast, we bring together parents, an SLP, and incredible teenage AAC users to share how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing their world. We hear from three fantastic guests: Alyssa Reed (teenage AAC user) and her mother, Elizabeth Reed; Trinity Rogers (teenage AAC user) and her SLP, Katelyn Oeser; Josh Pedro, a dad whose daughter, Gena, also uses AAC. Tune in to discover the exciting, real-world applications of AI for teenagers who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), including how they are using it to: - Conquer Writing Assignments: Making schoolwork accessible and empowering. - Boost Social Fluency: Generating expanded sentences and quick, relevant responses for fast-paced social interactions. - Curate Vocabulary: Strategically selecting and adding essential words, including slang, to their communication devices. Most critically, we provide actionable advice for parents and professionals: How to effectively document and integrate AI tools and support into an AAC user's Individualized Education Program (IEP). Don't miss this blueprint for leveraging technology to unlock potential! Awe and Wonder AAC & AT Podcast Series 8: AI Possibilities https://specialedtechcenter.com/awe-and-wonder-s8/

In this episode we sit down with the incredible Mai Ling Chan, CCC-SLP, PMP, co-creator of AI for SLP Facebook group and a person dedicated to connecting and bridging relationships across the industry. We dive into critical updates on how to prompt AI effectively and safely as well as exploring the need to consider how people with disabilities want or don't want to use AI themselves. Tune in to hear Mai Ling's forward-thinking perspective on how technology and business can responsibly and effectively support the disability community. Episode Resources:  Exceptional Leaders Network: https://www.exceptionalleadersnetwork.com/  AI for the SLP on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/597325123447725 ArSHA Conference 2026: https://www.arsha.org/convention/ Mai Ling Chan: https://www.mailingchan.com/about  

Join us as we talk with Tracy Dabbs, Coordinator of Technology and Innovation for the Burlington-Edison School District in Washington State! If you're a teacher, SLP, or AT specialist, you'll want to grab your notebook. Tracy shares actionable advice and resources on how to effectively support students using AI. She even provides a direct link to her resource website filled with AI tools for educators. Don't miss this essential session on using AI to overcome barriers and achieve better student outcomes! Awe and Wonder AAC & AT Podcast https://specialedtechcenter.com/awe-and-wonder-podcast/   Episode Resources: AI and Inclusive Instruction- B-E UDL: Resource Bank - AI Tools and Instruction: https://sites.google.com/be.wednet.edu/b-ehs-udl-resource-bank/ai-tools-and-instruction

Join us as we speak with Dr. Samuel Sennott, professor of special education at Portland State University and co-creator of the original Proloquo2Go AAC app. Dr. Sennott shares the inspiring story behind creating one of the most widely used Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools. He also dives into the future, discussing how AI could shift deeply ingrained attitude barriers toward AAC users, how it can support literacy and talks about specific apps and how they harness AI to support communication. Most profoundly, Dr. Sennott opens up about his personal journey with cancer and how becoming a patient dramatically reshaped his views on life, healthcare, and the participatory model of AAC. Episode Resources: AAC Peer Support Project Final Report https://www.ohsu.edu/sites/default/files/2025-05/AAC%20Peer%20Support%20Project%20Final%20Report%20and%20Appendices_revised%20compressed.pdf  AAC and Artificial Intelligence. Sennott SC, Akagi L, Lee M, Rhodes A. AAC and Artificial Intelligence (AI) - PMC Supporting Individuals Who Use AAC: Breaking Down Opportunity Barriers: https://www.pluralpublishing.com/publications/supporting-individuals-who-use-augmentative-and-alternative-communication-breaking-down-opportunity-barriers?srsltid=AfmBOoorIDEMePZTn0WaASTh-om79hpLtxhArgmfM90aHBIe1wybUrBk  Lateef McLoud: https://speaker.ussaac.org/speaker/lateef-mcleod-oakland-ca/  OKR TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/john_doerr_why_the_secret_to_success_is_setting_the_right

Ready to integrate AI into your classroom but don't know where to start? Join us as educator Sharon Redmon offers a practical guide to using artificial intelligence. She shares how she uses ChatGPT to break down a research article and introduces a "4 C's" system for prompt creation. Sharon also discusses how AI can streamline the process of creating educational materials and highlights key guiding principles for its use, including putting the human first and prioritizing accessibility, especially for AAC users. Episode Resources: Beyond Text Leveling with AI (1 min video): https://youtu.be/d1VC-rjEoOs Strategic AI Prompting to Modify and Customize Curriculum (13 min video): https://youtu.be/gThAp8GvEko AI & AAC Article: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07434618.2025.2495905 

Tune into our latest episode as we sit down with Chris Gibbons, Senior Vice President of Clinical Education at Smartbox, for a fascinating discussion on the future of assistive technology and AI as an accelerant for learning. We dive into the transformative potential of AI applications in education and for individuals with disabilities, specifically focusing on how AI can enhance communication through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. This conversation explores the incredible opportunities AI presents while also highlighting the critical importance of user control, privacy, and ethical considerations in the development and implementation of these powerful new tools. Episode Resources: Brave New Words (book): https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/740806/brave-new-words-by-salman-khan/ Smartbox: https://thinksmartbox.com/ AI + Learning Differences: Designing a Future with No Boundaries: https://acceleratelearning.stanford.edu/app/uploads/2025/07/AI-Learning-Differences-Designing-a-Future-with-No-Boundaries_Final.pdf

Tune in for a fascinating discussion with Dr. Tracy Rackensperger, a public service faculty member at the Institute on Human Development and Disability at the University of Georgia and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) User. Dr. Rackensperger is an expert in AAC, and in this episode, she discusses how AI is creating new opportunities for meaningful inclusion for students with disabilities. Learn about the importance of using critical thinking and editing skills when leveraging AI, and how these new technologies are opening the door to quicker communication for AAC users. You won't want to miss this insightful conversation on the intersection of AI, technology, and inclusion. Awe and Wonder AAC & AT Podcast https://specialedtechcenter.com/awe-and-wonder-podcast/ Episode Resources: RERC on AAC Webcasts & Instructional Modules: https://rerc-aac.psu.edu/ McNaughton, D., Rackensperger, T., & McLemore, L. (2025). Supporting meaningful participation in society by adults with developmental disabilities who need and use AAC: lived experiences, key research findings, and future directions. Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 41(3), 250–263. https://doi.org/10.1080/07434618.2025.2504497 October is National Disability Employment and Alternative Communication (AAC) Awareness month! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXMhswc69Ng 

Tune in to a conversation with Erin, an expert in literacy and language development and a strong advocate for inclusive schools and communities. As a mother of a now teenager with autism and Angelman syndrome, Erin brings firsthand experience to her work at AssistiveWare. We discuss her journey through early intervention and the special education system, and the AT supports that proved essential for her daughter. Resources: Proloquo Thinking Space: https://www.assistiveware.com/support/proloquo/basics/proloquo-thinking-space  Angelman Syndrome: https://angelman.org/about-angelman-syndrome/  CVI: https://www.perkins.org/what-is-cvi/

Explore the impactful work of Bridget, an SLP at the University of Washington's Experimental Education Unit (EEU), an inclusive early childhood center. Learn how their transdisciplinary approach supports children (birth-kindergarten) with diverse communication needs through collaborative assessment, therapy, and teacher consultation. Bridget shares insights into fostering communication development and the power of teamwork in helping young learners thrive. Resources: UW Experimental Education Unit: https://haringcenter.org/eeu/  Haring Center for Inclusive Education: https://haringcenter.org/  Will AAC stop a person from learning to speak? https://www.assistiveware.com/learn-aac/roadblock-aac-will-stop-a-person-from-learning-to-speak  Printable AAC Core Boards: https://saltillo.com/chatcorner/content/29  Carrie Ebert, SLP https://www.instagram.com/cari.ebert.seminars/?hl=en  Playspark https://www.instagram.com/play_spark/

From stay-at-home mom to special education expert, hear how one mother's journey with her daughter, who has CHARGE syndrome, sparked a 21-year career. We delve into her experience as a Speech Therapy Assistant, her Masters in Special Education (Visually Impaired), and her work with children 0-3 and preschool at the Arizona State School for the Deaf and Blind.   Resources: CHARGE Syndrome: https://www.chargesyndrome.org/overview/ State Deafblind Projects: https://www.nationaldb.org/state-deaf-blind-projects/ Remove.bg image background removal: https://www.remove.bg/ Oregon Project for Preschool Children Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired: https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/the-oregon-project-for-preschool-children-who-are-blind-or-visually-impaired/  

Tune in for a conversation with Cass, a passionate advocate for equity and early access to robust high-tech AAC. As an autistic and ADHD mom of autistic children, she champions neuroaffirming approaches. We explore her personal experiences with AT in early intervention and her dedication to empowering families with the tools they need to thrive.

Ryan joins us to share her journey in early intervention and inclusive education. With a wealth of experience from preschool classrooms to Washington's Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), she's dedicated to ensuring all children thrive. Learn about her impactful work with the Preschool Inclusion Champions Network and her insights on the power of collaboration and assistive technology.

As a speech-language pathologist with 20 years of experience, specializing in early intervention, and a device representative for PRC-Saltillo, Shari brings a unique perspective. Hear her personal story of navigating her own children's communication journeys – the struggle of getting a device for her 8-year-old, and her youngest daughter who began using AAC at just 13 months. Discover how her professional expertise and lived experience intersect, offering invaluable insights for parents and professionals alike.

Join us as Rebecca shares her journey after her daughter Maeve's diagnosis of Joubert syndrome at just four months old. Discover how occupational therapist Mimi and cTVI Jillian stepped in, working alongside Rebecca to find and implement crucial assistive technology, opening up a world of communication and access for Maeve.

Tara and Shelly, a parent and educator team, founded Roots2Wings Family Group to support families of children with disabilities across Washington state. Their organization bridges a crucial gap by offering online training sessions and coordinating in-person events where parents can connect with multiple agencies under one roof to access essential resources and information. Acronyms used: ABA: Applied Behavior Analysis DDA: Developmental Disabilities Administration Resources: Roots2Wings website: https://sites.google.com/view/roots2wings/home Academy for Precision Learning: https://www.aplschool.org/ WA State Transition Services ages 16-21: https://ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/special-education/family-engagement-and-guidance/transition-services-ages-16-21

Fran McCarthy has dedicated her career to championing students' needs in education. Her recent role as Executive Director of Student Support Services at Northwest Washington Educational Service District reflects her commitment to student advocacy. She is particularly passionate about fostering inclusive educational environments, implementing Universal Design for Learning principles, and developing project-based learning opportunities for students with disabilities and those principles are highlighted throughout this episode. Resources: TIES Center 5-15-45 Tool: https://tiescenter.org/resource/dl24-the-5-15-45-tool-grab-a-partner-and-lets-collaborate Assistive Technology in the IEP: Writing Strength-Based IEPs Washington State Educational Service Districts: https://ospi.k12.wa.us/about-ospi/about-school-districts/educational-service-districts-esd Washington AIMS project (MTSS) https://goodladinstitute.org/aims/

Don Johnston, who founded and leads Building Wings as CEO, developed his company to create educational technology and curriculum specifically designed for students with disabilities. Drawing from his personal journey with dyslexia, including his own delayed path to reading proficiency, Don openly discusses how he overcame learning challenges through key support systems. His experiences inform his passionate advocacy for maintaining high expectations for all students, as he credits this approach as crucial for academic achievement. Resources: Building Wings: https://www.buildingwings.com/ Monarch Reader: https://www.buildingwings.com/monarch-reader-books-for-beginning-readers-of-all-ages/  News Currents: https://www.buildingwings.com/news-currents/ Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM): https://dynamiclearningmaps.org/ Tiered Vocabulary: https://cpet.tc.columbia.edu/news-press/tiered-vocabulary-narrowing-your-instructional-focus

Amy is a special education teacher from WA State, who was the 2020 Teacher of the Year award recipient and is also involved in the Professional Educator Standards Board and the WA Inclusionary Practice Technical Network. In this episode, Amy discusses her roles and experiences in special education, with a focus on the importance of collaboration, inclusion, and individualization. The potential of technology is also explored, such as artificial intelligence in education. Listen in to hear Amy express her passion for her work and her commitment to continuous learning and innovation with a focus on positive presuppositions. Resources: Inclusionary Practices Technical Assistance Network (ITPN): https://ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/support-programs/inclusionary-practices-technical-assistance-network-iptn WEA Inclusion Training: https://wea-win.org/events/500/ Professional Educator Standards Board: https://www.pesb.wa.gov/

Throughout her career spanning more than 40 years, Gail Van Tatenhove has dedicated herself to working with AAC users although her connection to people with disabilities began in her youth, when she helped at her father's business.  In this episode she emphasizes several core beliefs that guide her work including: using your intuition, making the most of available resources, avoiding excuses, and it’s all about the words- robust, frequently used words. Listen in to hear more!