Curating a Specialized Speech Practice with SLP Sydney Bassard

In our latest Speech Source podcast episode with Sydney Bassard, The Listening SLP, we learned all about how she has used her education, background and experience to create a unique and specialized speech practice. Here are 5 insights Sydney shares with us through that podcast interview:

1. A Pivot Towards Passion

Sydney Bassard's path wasn't initially aligned with speech therapy. Starting in public health with an eye towards pharmacy, Sydney soon realized her true calling lay elsewhere after personal experiences shifted her perspective. Her transition to speech-language pathology was sparked by her brother's diagnosis of ADHD and dyslexia, motivating her to dive deep into helping others communicate effectively. Her story is a testament to following one's passion, even when it means venturing off the beaten path.

2. Bridging Gaps and Building Businesses

Sydney highlights how her entrepreneurial journey began right out of grad school. She recognized a gap in accessible health information and took to social media to democratize knowledge. Her efforts blossomed into numerous opportunities, including presentations and partnerships, illustrating the power of initiative and visibility in building a business.

3. Advancing Literacy and Accessibility

Sydney's expertise isn't just limited to speech therapy; she's also heavily involved in literacy, particularly for the deaf and hard of hearing. She emphasizes the importance of comprehensive approaches that address the full spectrum of communication challenges. Her work underscores the critical intersection of speech therapy and literacy, proving that specialization can amplify impact.

4. Empowering Through Education

One of the most compelling aspects of Sydney's career is her strategic use of social media and public speaking to educate and inspire. By leveraging platforms like Instagram, she reaches a wider audience, sharing insights and information that empower both individuals and professionals. Her journey demonstrates the power of educational content in building a professional brand and influencing change.

5. Advice to Aspiring SLP Entrepreneurs

For those looking to follow in her footsteps, Sydney offers invaluable advice: be authentic, seize opportunities for networking, and never underestimate the power of sharing knowledge freely. Her approach to freely distributing educational materials online has not only established her as a thought leader but has also paved the way for a successful entrepreneurial career.

Sydney Bassard's story is more than just a career trajectory; it's a blueprint for impactful entrepreneurship in the field of speech-language pathology. Her dedication to education, accessibility, and innovation continues to inspire new generations of SLPs to think beyond traditional career paths and embrace the potential of entrepreneurship.