thegalactosemiapodcast.com - support the show; ad-free and early access episodes

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Babble Bootcamp - https://www.northernspeech.com/competency-courses/babble-boot-camp-basic-training/

Apraxia Kids Foundation - Apraxiakids.com

GLOW for Galactosemia - glowforgalactosemia.org

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Nancy Potter, speech-language pathologist and creator of Babble Boot Camp, the world’s first early speech intervention program designed for infants at risk for speech and language delays, including children with galactosemia. Dr. Potter shares her journey from driving cross-country to study childhood apraxia of speech to leading groundbreaking research that empowers parents to support their child’s communication from infancy.

You’ll hear personal stories, practical tips, and the latest research on how early intervention can make a lasting difference in speech development.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Dr. Potter’s career path and connection to galactosemia research

• Understanding the differences between speech and language disorders

• The origin, goals, and successes of Babble Boot Camp

• How early intervention leverages brain plasticity for speech development

• Tips for parents to support speech and language at home

• Navigating insurance and accessing early intervention services

• The importance of community support 

Guest Bios: 

Dr. Nancy Potter is a professor of speech and hearing sciences with over 40 years of experience in pediatric speech-language pathology. She has led pioneering research in childhood apraxia of speech, particularly in children with galactosemia. Dr. Potter co-founded Camp Candoo and developed Babble Boot Camp, an innovative early intervention program helping children build strong foundations in speech and language.

00:00:00 Intro

00:01:45 Meet Dr. Nancy Potter

00:04:15 Dr. Potter’s Journey into Speech Pathology

00:07:30 Discovering Galactosemia & Childhood Apraxia of Speech

00:11:00 Research Challenges & Nationwide Study

00:15:20 Defining Speech vs. Language Disorders

00:20:50 Understanding Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

00:24:10 The Babble Boot Camp Origin Story

00:29:00 Parent Implementation & Success Stories

00:34:30 Early Intervention: Why Timing Matters

00:40:15 Speech and Literacy Connections

00:45:40 Insurance, Access, & Navigating Support Systems

00:55:30 Practical Tips for Parents at Home

01:00:45 Community Support 

01:05:10 Reflecting on Research Progress & Gratitude

01:10:00 Final Takeaways & Words of Encouragement

01:15:00 Recap Time