What happens when a childhood dream of becoming a doctor takes an unexpected turn? Join us as we uncover the fascinating story of Michaela Elrod, a dedicated speech-language pathologist whose life was forever changed by a pivotal shadowing experience. This episode explores Michaela's journey from aspiring physician to discovering a more personal calling in the world of speech therapy, where she finds joy in transforming the lives of children and their families. Together, we delve into the profound impact of early intervention on child development and explore the unique challenges and rewards of fostering communication skills in children under three years old.

Michaela brings valuable insights into the practice of speech therapy, emphasizing the power of parent coaching and everyday interactions to build essential communication skills in young children. By moving away from traditional, authoritative models and embracing humility and vulnerability, Michaela shows us how speech therapists can effectively partner with parents during this transformative period. We also address the hurdles faced by these professionals, like maintaining energy and tackling complex client behaviors, all while savoring the rewarding nature of this work.

Our conversation takes a personal turn as Michaela opens up about her life outside of work, sharing her experiences as a medical spouse. We explore the sacrifices and joys of supporting a partner in the demanding world of medicine, and the importance of maintaining balance through self-care and quality time together. This episode serves as an inspiring resource for anyone interested in the medical and therapy fields, offering a rare glimpse into the joys and challenges faced by those dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others.

Virtual shadowing is an important tool to use when planning your medical career. At Shadow Me Next! we want to provide you with the resources you need to find your role in healthcare and secure your place in medicine.

Check out our pre-health resources. Great for pre-med, pre-PA, pre-nursing, pre-therapy students or anyone else with an upcoming interview!
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