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The Move. Talk. Thrive. Podcast
The Move. Talk. Thrive. Podcast
Author: Emily Mackie Speechie and Lizzy Dawson EP
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© Emily Mackie Speechie and Lizzy Dawson EP
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We are child development obsessed, mums, business besties and are here to spill our secrets.
We have a combined 30 years experience working with children. Each episode we will bring you up to date research and evidence based strategies to set children up to thrive.
This is the Move, Talk, Thrive Podcast.
We have a combined 30 years experience working with children. Each episode we will bring you up to date research and evidence based strategies to set children up to thrive.
This is the Move, Talk, Thrive Podcast.
78 Episodes
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In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily chats with pediatric occupational therapist and Move About co-founder Dave Jereb about a topic many clinicians quietly consider: relocation.Together they explore how moving — whether to a new city, state, or lifestyle — connects to burnout, workplace culture, career growth, community, and well-being. Dave shares his own experiences, from working in the U.S. to relocating from Sydney to the Central Coast, and how aligning choices with values shaped his life and career.Key TakeawaysRelocation is values-driven: Knowing your why helps guide your next step.Burnout isn’t just about hours: Misalignment harms more than workload.Competence builds confidence: Pushing through the “learning dip” leads to flow and satisfaction.Lifestyle matters: Nature, community, and environment influence long-term well-being.Culture is key: Visit workplaces — real culture is felt, not marketed.You can do hard things: Growth often requires leaning into discomfort.Resources MentionedCoastal Lifestyle Campaign: Stories of OTs who relocated to the Central CoastMove About Careers Page: www.moveabout.com.au/careers/Workplace Scorecard: Is your paediatric OT workplace working for you?Stay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveFollow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.ThriveConnect with Emily & LizzyEmily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechieLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Connect with Dave JerebLinkedIn → www.linkedin.com/in/dave-jereb/Instagram → @davejereb_otMove About Instagram → @moveabout.otWorkplace Scorecard → https://dave-n3wfmo2w.scoreapp.com/Move About Careers → Click here
In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy turn the focus from children to the adults who support them — the employees, clinicians, and leaders feeling the strain of end-of-year fatigue.As reports pile up, diaries fill, and festive logistics take over, they unpack what it truly means to “finish well” — without tipping into burnout. Drawing from their own experiences as business owners, they explore how to support teams through this demanding season, maintain co-regulation in the workplace, and balance forward planning with being present.Key TakeawaysCo-regulation matters at every level: The energy you bring to your team influences everyone around you.Work smarter, not harder: Finishing well isn’t about doing more — it’s about creating clarity, structure, and support.Reflection over perfection: Take time to check in with yourself and your team — what worked, what didn’t, and how you want to show up next year.Shift from hustle to gratitude: Appreciation and acknowledgement boost morale far more than last-minute productivity pushes.Clarity calms chaos: Be clear about priorities — and let go of what can wait until the new year.Finish with intention: Ask yourself — How do I want to feel when the year ends?Stay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode resonates with how you’re feeling heading into the end of the year, share it with a fellow clinician, teacher, or teammate who could use a reminder to slow down and reflect.Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.ThriveConnect with UsEmily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechieLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_
In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy dive into the end-of-year chaos every parent, teacher, and pediatric professional knows too well — when everyone’s tired, routines fall apart, and regulation goes out the window.As clinicians and mums, they talk through what this season looks like in their own homes and clinics, why tired kids struggle more with regulation, and how small adjustments can make a big difference. From keeping routines simple to weaving movement and play into therapy, they share strategies for helping children (and adults!) stay calm and connected as the year wraps up.Key TakeawaysRoutines provide security: Keeping predictable rhythms helps children feel safe and grounded.Movement regulates: Incorporate movement — from obstacle courses to outdoor play — to support attention and emotional balance.Connection before correction: Co-regulation and therapist–child connection are key to navigating dysregulation.Adjust expectations: Simplify goals and focus on achievable wins that align with the season’s energy.Support parents: Offer realistic strategies that fit easily into daily routines.Consistency counts: Maintaining therapy helps stabilize regulation and progress, even when things feel chaotic.Stay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode resonates with your own late-year experiences, share it with a fellow clinician, teacher, or parent who might need the reminder that “good enough” is sometimes exactly what’s needed.Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsEmily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechieLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_
In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy unpack a habit we all fall into from time to time — procrastination.Whether it’s putting off paperwork, avoiding tricky conversations, or feeling stuck in a cycle of “I’ll do it later,” procrastination often isn’t about laziness, it’s about what’s happening underneath.Drawing from their own experiences in business and clinical work, Emily and Lizzy explore the psychology behind procrastination, the emotional triggers that fuel it, and the small mindset shifts that make it easier to take action.They share practical strategies for breaking through mental blocks; from setting micro-goals and finding your “why,” to using accountability, energy management, and even fun rewards to keep momentum going.You’ll also hear how perfectionism, fear of feedback, and unclear goals all play into the procrastination loop and how reframing these patterns can help you and your team move forward with clarity and confidence.Key TakeawaysProcrastination isn’t laziness: It’s often a response to overwhelm, fear, or unclear direction.Find your “why”: Connecting the task to a meaningful outcome helps unlock motivation.Perfectionism fuels paralysis: “Progress over perfection” helps build momentum.Energy and regulation matter: Manage your physical and emotional energy before tackling hard tasks.Accountability helps: Whether it’s a mentor, colleague, or plan, external check-ins can keep you on track.Make it enjoyable: Change your environment, add small rewards, or make the task fun to reduce resistance.Feedback isn’t failure: Reframing feedback as fuel for growth builds resilience and confidence.Stay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode got you thinking about your own procrastination patterns, share it with a friend, colleague, or fellow clinician who might need a gentle nudge too.Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsEmily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechieLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_
In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy dive into a pattern many clinicians and caregivers know all too well — people pleasing.From the workplace to home life, the instinct to help, fix, or keep the peace often comes from a place of kindness but when left unchecked, it can lead straight to burnout.Drawing from their personal experiences and years of work across Allied Health, Emily and Lizzy unpack how to recognize the signs of overgiving, what healthy boundaries look like, and how to care deeply without losing yourself in the process.They explore the emotional layers behind people pleasing, the impact on your wellbeing and professional growth, and small, realistic shifts that make a big difference in everyday interactions.Whether you’re a new grad learning to find your voice, a clinician navigating team dynamics, or a parent trying to model healthy limits — this episode offers practical tools and gentle reminders to help you thrive without overextending.Key TakeawaysAwareness is the first step: Notice when “helping” turns into overcommitting or self-sacrifice.Boundaries protect connection: Saying “no” or “not now” can actually strengthen trust and respect.People pleasing often masks fear: It’s usually rooted in wanting to feel valued or avoid conflict.Compassion goes both ways: Extend the same care to yourself that you offer others.Burnout isn’t a badge: Overextension isn’t proof of passion — sustainability is.Stay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode made you pause and reflect on how you show up for others (and yourself), share it with a friend, colleague, or fellow clinician who might need to hear it too.Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsEmily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechieLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_
In this episode, Emily and Lizzy sit down with Mollie-May Bennett, an Allied Health recruiter from Brightside Recruitment, to unpack one of the biggest challenges facing the sector right now — finding balance between pay, sustainability, and genuine support.Drawing on her experience across Allied Health, the NDIS, and Aged Care, Mollie-May shares what’s really happening in the current job market; from inflated salaries and clinician burnout to the growing need for values-aligned recruitment. Together, they explore how both clinicians and business owners can make more informed, sustainable choices when it comes to hiring, career growth, and retention.Whether you’re a new grad navigating job offers, an early-career clinician weighing up your next move, or a business owner wanting to attract and keep great people, this conversation will help you make grounded, confident decisions in an ever-changing landscape.Key TakeawaysA big paycheque doesn’t equal real support: Short-term incentives often mask long-term burnout risks.Ask the right questions: You’re interviewing the employer just as much as they’re interviewing you.Sustainability matters: Staggered KPIs, realistic billables, and gradual ramp-up periods make for happier teams.Beware the “shiny things”: Cars, laptops and inflated salaries can’t replace supervision, mentorship and growth.Culture counts: The best workplaces are transparent, values-driven, and genuinely supportive.Support needs structure: Regular supervision, meaningful check-ins and open communication prevent burnout.Recruitment is about relationships: Long-term fit and shared values matter far more than a quick hire.About Our Guest ExpertMollie-May BennettRecruitment Consultant | Brightside RecruitmentBusiness Details:Website: https://brightsiderecruitment.com.auSocial Media:LinkedIn: Mollie-May BennettCompany LinkedIn: Brightside Recruitment AUStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you rethink what real support looks like, share it with a colleague, supervisor or fellow clinician who might need to hear it.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect with the Hosts:Emily Mackie – www.emilymackie.com.au | Instagram: @emilymackie.speechieLizzy Dawson – www.lizzydawson.com.au | Instagram: @lizzydawson_
In this solo episode, Emily dives into a topic close to every early-career clinician’s heart; what true support really means in your first year as an allied health professional. Drawing from over 16 years of experience as a speech pathologist and business owner, she unpacks the difference between “having someone around to ask questions” and building a structured, values-driven support system that helps new grads thrive, not just survive.From supervision and systems to workplace culture and red flags to watch out for, Emily offers a grounded, practical roadmap for both new graduates entering the field and leaders wanting to create safer, more nurturing workplaces.Key TakeawaysTrue support is structured, not spontaneous: Weekly (or daily) supervision beats an “open-door policy” every time.Observation without judgment: Safe feedback and the chance to watch others in action accelerate growth.Build gradually: Avoid overwhelming case loads—progressive onboarding prevents burnout.Systems and resources matter: Consistent frameworks and materials support clinical confidence.Culture counts: Growth happens where mistakes are seen as learning, not failure.Red flags to note: No induction process, overwork normalization, or “checklist-only” supervision.Leaders set the tone: Empathy, transparency, and clear expectations create thriving teams.Align your values: Choose (or build) workplaces that reflect who you want to become—not just who will hire you first.Stay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you reflect on what support really means, share it with a fellow clinician, supervisor, or friend who’s navigating their first year in allied health.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsEmily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechieLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_
In this episode, Lizzy and Emily break down interviews from both sides of the table; what employers are really looking for, how new grads can prepare, and why interviews should be seen as a two-way process. They share practical tips on preparation, values-based hiring, and the power of vulnerability, plus insights on building strong teams and choosing the right workplace.Key TakeawaysInterviews are a two-way process.Preparation and thoughtful questions go a long way.Values and attitude often matter more than clinical knowledge.Tools like DISC profiling and team observations improve hiring matches.Vulnerability shows honesty and self-awareness.The best hires complement team strengths, not duplicate them.Support and professional development are non-negotiables for new grads.Every interview is a chance for employers to refine their process.Shared vision unites diverse personalities in the workplace.The right workplace sets the stage for long-term career satisfaction.Resources & Links:From Aspiring Student to Successful Speechie by Emily MackieLizzy’s online clinical coursesPreschool Language Accelerator with EmilyStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveInstagram: @movetalkthriveYouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy Dawson – Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au | Instagram: @lizzydawson_Emily Mackie – Website: www.emilymackie.com.au | Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this candid episode, Lizzy and Emily unpack the uncertainty allied health businesses face with looming NDIS changes and the proposed Thriving Kids program. They share how they’re preparing their own practices; balancing personal life, clinical work, and business strategy, while encouraging listeners to think ahead too.From funding shifts to new service models, they explore what it takes to stay resilient and pivot-ready in a changing landscape. Whether you’re a solo practitioner or managing a team, this conversation offers practical strategies to strengthen systems, diversify services, and adapt with confidence.Key TakeawaysBe pivot-ready: build resilience through varied services, funding, and partnerships.NDIS vs. Thriving Kids: prepare for funding and service delivery changes.Plan ahead: align business strategy with personal timelines and growth goals.Diversify: don’t rely on one income stream; build your private client base.Partnerships: connect with schools, councils, and early learning centres.Pricing: re-evaluate fees as funding structures shift.Caseload mix: anticipate changes in client severity and complexity.Stay proactive, not panicked: flexibility and strong systems are key.Stay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you see play-based therapy in a new light, share it with a colleague, parent, or fellow clinician who wants therapy to feel both fun and effective.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this fun and practical episode, Lizzy and Emily dive into the heart of play-based therapy—what it looks like, why it works, and how clinicians can still achieve structured pediatric goals while keeping sessions child-led and engaging.They also share their own clinical journeys, from refining therapy through years of experience (and even through pregnancies, broken arms, and no voice!) to mentoring new grads who are just building their “toolkit” of strategies.Key Takeaways:Play-based therapy and structured goals don’t have to compete, they work best together.Following a child’s lead increases engagement, buy-in, and therapeutic outcomes.Everyday tools obstacle courses, toys, household items, or even music can become therapy resources.Repetition is key, but it should feel fun and natural, not forced.Confidence comes with time, experience, and a willingness to be flexible and intuitive.Resources & Links:How to Modify Exercise for KidsPreschool Language Accelerator LibraryStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you see play-based therapy in a new light, share it with a colleague, parent, or fellow clinician who wants therapy to feel both fun and effective.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this practical and eye-opening episode, Lizzy and Emily dive into a topic that might not sound glamorous but can transform both your work and your wellbeing: systems, policies, and procedures. Far from being “dry admin,” the way you streamline your workflow is the key to protecting your energy, leaving work at work, and avoiding burnout.They unpack how systems help you and your team stay productive, why documenting procedures matters for both business owners and employees, and how strong processes actually create space for creativity, flexibility, and balance. From handling sick days and family leave to onboarding, clinical tasks, and even buying toilet paper, Lizzy and Emily show how clear systems reduce stress and set everyone up for success.Key Takeaways:Systems protect your time and energy so you can leave work at work.Clear policies reduce friction, questions, and confusion across teams.Strong systems help business owners stay “in the cockpit” and focused on vision.Procedures reduce anxiety for employees and empower independence.Systems should be tailored to your team’s needs—too much detail overwhelms, too little creates gaps.Delegation becomes more effective when expectations are clearly documented.Updating and reviewing systems regularly ensures they stay relevant and useful.Systems aren’t about control—they’re about reducing stress and setting everyone up for success.Resources & Links:Scribe (for creating simple process documentation)Asana (for project and systems management)Clockwork and Profit First by Mike MichalowiczStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you see systems in a new light, share it with a colleague, business owner, or fellow clinician who could use more balance and structure in their workday.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this refreshingly honest episode, Lizzy and Emily open up about the realities of starting your own business—especially as allied health professionals. Far from the highlight reels, they share the personal challenges, the heavy responsibility, and the unexpected growth that comes with stepping into business ownership.They unpack why your “why” matters more than anything else, how business exposes your strengths and weaknesses, and why resilience is the number one requirement for anyone considering the leap. From finances, admin, and compliance to seasons of growth, burnout, and flexibility, Lizzy and Emily share what they’ve learned (often the hard way) so you can prepare with eyes wide open.Key Takeaways:Business is as much a personal growth journey as a professional one.Your motivation has to be stronger than the hard days.Running a business is all-consuming—you’ll wear all the hats.Strong systems and support networks are essential to survive and thrive.Financial literacy and accountability are non-negotiable.Resources & Links:#58 Purpose, Burnout & Boundaries: What Every Helping Professional Should Know with Kara Walsh#18 Are you an Entrepreneur or an Intrapreneur? 7 Ways You Can KnowStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode gave you a more realistic perspective on business (and maybe the motivation to keep going), share it with a fellow clinician or business owner who needs it.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
This episode is all about what to do when a therapy session doesn’t go to plan—something that happens often in paediatrics (and parenting too!). Lizzy and Emily get real about the unpredictability of working with children, why flexibility and co-regulation matter, and how therapists and parents can reframe “off-script” moments as opportunities for learning.From sharing personal stories (like sick days, swimming lessons gone wrong, and kids coming into sessions tired or overstimulated) to unpacking strategies around motivation, regulation, and role modeling, they break down how to navigate the unexpected with confidence and calm. You’ll walk away with both mindset shifts and practical tools to help children (and yourself) thrive even when things don’t go to plan.What You'll LearnWhy children’s sessions often don’t go to plan (and why that’s completely normal)The power of flexibility, curiosity, and co-regulation in therapy and parentingPractical strategies to adjust goals, activities, and expectations in real timeHow to observe behavior as valuable “clues” rather than disruptionsWays to collaborate with parents to prepare children for more effective sessionsSimple regulation tools that support both children and parentsWhy reflecting and building your therapist “toolkit” is key to long-term successStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode encourages you to embrace flexibility in your sessions (and in parenting), share it with a fellow therapist or parent who needs it.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
This episode is all about navigating the mid-year slump—how to recognise it, what to do when energy is waning, and practical ways to reset so you can finish the year strong (without burning out).Lizzy and Emily get real about what this season feels like for them, from juggling business, family, and health, to finding strategies that keep them energised. Emily also shares some exciting personal news that adds another layer to the conversation about balance, priorities, and listening to your body.What You’ll LearnWhy the mid-year slump happens and how to recognize itPractical ways to prevent burnout (even when life feels full)The power of short, intentional breaks vs. long holidaysHow to conserve energy by prioritising what matters mostDaily and weekly habits to keep your mental and physical health in checkThe importance of flexibility, realistic planning, and letting go of unnecessary pressureStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you feel more confident about those tough convos, subscribe and share it with someone who needs it.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this practical and refreshingly honest episode, Lizzy and Emily tackle a listener’s question about one of the most time-consuming—and sometimes stress-inducing—parts of an allied health professional’s week: report writing.They unpack why reports matter, how they differ depending on your workplace, funding source, and audience, and why systematising your process can save hours of time (and a whole lot of mental load). From templates to time-blocking, they share how their own clinics have streamlined reporting to make it efficient, effective, and burnout-proof.Key Takeaways:Reports vary by context—but the basics should always be there.Know your audience: professional collaboration reports will differ from parent-friendly versions.Templates, processes, and examples save time and improve consistency.Allocate dedicated admin time in your diary—don’t take paperwork home.Resources:Lizzy's Paediatric Assessment ProtocolEmily’s upcoming Assessment Masterclass for speechies (Part 1), with a Report Writing Masterclass to follow—stay tuned via Instagram and email.Stay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you shift your mindset, subscribe and share it with someone else who needs that same reminder.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
This episode continues our deep dive into executive function—what it looks like in children, why it matters, and how we can support it through speech pathology and exercise physiology. Lizzy and Emily explore how executive function underpins behaviour, learning, and regulation, and unpack how to differentiate between executive function challenges and language difficulties in therapy.You'll hear real-life clinical reasoning, case examples (including Lizzy’s own kids!), and evidence-backed strategies to help identify and support executive function skills like working memory, impulse control, cognitive flexibility, and planning. Whether you're a parent, educator, or allied health professional, this episode is packed with practical ways to build executive function into therapy and everyday life.What You’ll Learn:What executive function really is and why it’s central to child developmentThe link between executive function and behaviour, attention, and communicationHow to differentiate language delays from executive function challengesWhy movement-based interventions (like Pilates and tennis) can boost brain developmentPractical ways to embed executive function strategies into therapy sessionsHow to model problem solving and planning at home or in therapySimple assessment tools to identify working memory and impulse control differencesWhy executive function development looks different in every child (and isn’t always disruptive!)Tools & Resources Mentioned:2025 Research Study on Executive Function and Receptive LanguageStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped shift your perspective or gave you a new tool for your parenting or professional practice, share it with someone else who’d benefit from it.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizziedawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
This episode dives deep into the world of clinical planning—what it is, why it matters, and how it sets the stage for meaningful therapy outcomes. Lizzy and Emily unpack their step-by-step processes for creating long- and short-term goals, mapping out therapy plans, and making sure every session moves children closer to functional progress.You’ll hear real-world examples from both a speech pathology and exercise physiology perspective, insights on NDIS planning, and why reports are more than just paperwork—they’re the backbone of effective therapy. Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced clinician, this episode is full of practical strategies to help you plan with confidence, clarity, and connection.What You’ll Learn:- The purpose and power of clinical planning for therapy success- How to set functional goals that align with family priorities and NDIS requirements- Why flexibility is essential in pediatric therapy planning- Strategies for prioritising multiple goal areas without overwhelm- How to turn reports into clear, actionable therapy roadmaps- Ways to streamline planning so you can focus on connection in sessionsTools & Resources Mentioned:Emily’s Resources:Emily’s Preschool Language Hierarchy (updated with new research)The Beginner’s PLA Goal Selection GuidePLA Session Planner StarterSpeechie Working WebinarLizzy’s ResourcesMilestone MapPre and Post Assessment ChecklistConnect With Us:Lizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechieStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped shift your perspective or gave you a new tool for your parenting or professional practice, share it with someone else who’d benefit from it.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive
In this insightful episode, Lizzy and Emily chat with Dr. Siobhan Kennedy-Costantini—developmental psychologist and founder of Science Minded—about how we can better support children through connection, especially in the wake of the pandemic.Siobhan shares her journey from academia to advocacy, her experiences as a mum of two sensitive kids, and how relationship-focused approaches can transform both therapy and early education. Together, they unpack why behaviour is communication, why delight matters, and what our “pandemic babies” are showing us about the power of presence.About Dr. SiobhanPhD in Developmental Psychology | Child Development Specialist | Founder of Science MindedDr. Siobhan Kennedy-Costantini is a developmental psychologist and educator who helps parents and educators apply research in real, relatable ways. Through Science Minded, she offers accessible, evidence-based support on attachment, regulation, and responsive caregiving. She's a trained Circle of Security facilitator and mum of two.Connect with Dr. Siobhan Kennedy-CostantiniWebsite: www.scienceminded.orgInstagram: @science.mindedStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped shift your perspective or gave you a new tool for your parenting or professional practice, share it with someone else who’d benefit from it.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this energising and insightful conversation, Lizzy sits down with Nicole French—award-winning Exercise Physiologist, clinic owner, and fierce advocate for collaborative healthcare—to explore what it really takes to lead with purpose in the allied health space.Nicole shares her 19-year journey of building three successful clinics, stepping into advocacy, and redefining leadership by blending evidence-based care with creativity, fun, and strategic vision. From reshaping diabetes management to speaking in Parliament, Nicole reflects on the systems, mindset shifts, and people that helped her evolve from clinician to CEO—and why staying connected to your mission matters more than ever.Key Takeaways:You can lead without doing it all. Managing yourself out creates space to lead strategically.Systems build freedom. Strong foundations let your team—and ideas—thrive.Fun matters. Creativity and play protect against burnout and spark innovation.Resilience is a muscle. Mistakes, pivots, and setbacks are part of the journey.Your energy is your edge. Honour what energises you—and build from there.Leadership evolves. Be willing to grow, change, and redefine your role.Advocacy takes time. Impact comes from credibility, consistency, and care.Connect with Nicole:🌐 exerciserehab.com.au | essendonphysiogroup.com.au📲 @nicole_french_ep💼 Nicole on LinkedInStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you shift your mindset, subscribe and share it with someone else who needs that same reminder.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.aInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie
This episode is all about quarterly planning—what it is, why it works, and how to make it practical for your life or business. Lizzy shares how she uses each new quarter as a reset point to check in on goals, review what’s working, and realign priorities. Whether you're a business owner, therapist, or juggling family life, this episode is full of strategies to help you plan in a way that’s effective, realistic, and energizing.What You'll Learn:The purpose and power of quarterly planningHow to structure a quarterly reset without overwhelmWhat reflection questions to ask at the end of each quarterHow to break down big goals into manageable chunksTools and routines that make quarterly planning easier to stick toTools & Resources Mentioned:Lizzy's Quarterly Planning Retreat ItineraryStay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you shift your mindset, subscribe and share it with someone else who needs that same reminder.Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthriveWatch on YouTube: Move.Talk.ThriveConnect With UsLizzy DawsonWebsite: www.lizzydawson.com.auInstagram: @lizzydawson_Emily MackieWebsite: www.emilymackie.com.auInstagram: @emilymackie.speechie








