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This episode of BLA Connections A Clear Voice, hosted by Natalie Watson, features a follow-up conversation with Jackie Gartner-Schmidt after her keynote presentation at the British Laryngological Association (BLA) Conference 2025. Dr Gartner-Schmidt discusses Conversation Training Therapy (CTT), an approach that begins with everyday conversation rather than traditional vocal drills. The focus is on addressing the vocal behaviours patients experience in daily life, such as hoarseness or vocal fatigue, rather than treating diagnoses in isolation.

During the discussion, Dr Gartner-Schmidt explains the research origins of CTT, its links to clear speech and audiology, and why it can lead to faster and more meaningful carryover into real-world communication. She outlines who is most suitable for the approach, when alternative therapies are more appropriate, and highlights the importance of sensory awareness and negative practice in helping patients maintain efficient voice use over time.

Three main takeaways

1. Voice therapy targets behaviours, not labels
   CTT focuses on changing inefficient vocal behaviours that can occur across different diagnoses.
2. Starting with conversation supports carryover
   Using real speech from the outset helps patients apply changes more quickly and consistently in daily life.
3. Negative practice strengthens self-management
   Learning to move between inefficient and efficient voice use improves awareness, confidence, and long-term outcomes.

Contact Information
Visit www.britishlaryngological.org and our podcast library.

Cutting Edge Laryngology 2026 registration is now open: Register here

Email: enquiries@britishlaryngological.org for any questions or topic suggestions you may have for future episodes.

This show is brought to you by the BLA; you can follow us on X, Linkedin and Instagram hosted by Natalie Watson @surgeonsinger, produced and directed by Heather Pownall of Heather's Media Hub Ltd and award-winning producer.

The opinions of our host and guests are their own; The BLA does not endorse any individual viewpoints, given products or companies.
If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and subscribe with the podcast provider of your choice.

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In this episode of BLA Connections: A Clear Voice, host Natalie Watson marks the handover of the British Laryngological Association presidency from Mr Declan Costello to Mr Nicholas Gibbins.

Declan reflects on his two-year term, highlighting the steady development of the Association’s foundations, including a new website, improved membership systems and strengthened organisational structures. He discusses the importance of collaboration, both within the UK and internationally, noting successful initiatives such as the BLA Congress and the voice clinics study day in Manchester.

Declan emphasises that while much of the recent work may not have been highly visible, it has been essential in setting the stage for future growth and innovation.

Incoming president Nick Gibbins shares his enthusiasm for building on this foundation, describing laryngology as entering a “golden age” of rapid advancement. He outlines plans to enhance global partnerships, encourage data sharing across institutions, and develop the BLA’s online presence into a central hub for clinical knowledge and training.

Nick also stresses the importance of supporting trainees and ensuring that the BLA continues to guide standards in the field. Both he and Declan express optimism for the Association’s future, with shared ambitions to expand membership, foster collaboration, and strengthen the BLA’s role as a leading voice in laryngology both in the UK and internationally.

Contact Information
Visit www.britishlaryngological.org and our podcast library.

Cutting Edge Laryngology 2026 registration is now open: Register here

Email: enquiries@britishlaryngological.org for any questions or topic suggestions you may have for future episodes.

This show is brought to you by the BLA; you can follow us on X, Linkedin and Instagram hosted by Natalie Watson @surgeonsinger, produced and directed by Heather Pownall of Heather's Media Hub Ltd and award-winning producer.

The opinions of our host and guests are their own; The BLA does not endorse any individual viewpoints, given products or companies.
If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and subscribe with the podcast provider of your choice.

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In the BLA Connections: A Clear Voice episode, host Natalie Watson interviews Professor David Howard, the founding president of the British Laryngological Association (BLA). The conversation reflects on the history and development of the BLA and the vital role of laryngology in speech and language therapy. Professor Howard shares insights into his career, from his early interest in physiology and surgical innovations to his current work on a negative pressure ventilator designed to improve respiratory support globally. He highlights the challenges and opportunities of innovation in medicine, including the slow process of gaining widespread adoption.

Professor Howard also discusses his continued involvement in teaching, training, and international work. Prof Howard reflects on his experiences with the Everest medical research team, his collaboration with engineers and clinicians, and the importance of bridging disciplines to address global health challenges.

Contact Information
Visit www.britishlaryngological.org and our podcast library.

Cutting Edge Laryngology 2026 registration is now open: Register here

Email: enquiries@britishlaryngological.org for any questions or topic suggestions you may have for future episodes.

This show is brought to you by the BLA; you can follow us on X, Linkedin and Instagram hosted by Natalie Watson @surgeonsinger, produced and directed by Heather Pownall of Heather's Media Hub Ltd and award-winning producer.

The opinions of our host and guests are their own; The BLA does not endorse any individual viewpoints, given products or companies.
If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and subscribe with the podcast provider of your choice.