speech pathology – Binh Doan

December 2, 2025

Why I Love Being a Polymath

People sometimes ask me, “How do you do so many things?”

My honest answer: I don’t know how NOT to.

I’ve never been someone who fits neatly into one box. I’m a speech pathologist, a writer, a life coach, an actor, a yoga teacher, an ESL educator, a business owner, and yes, someone who hangs upside down on a pole for fun.

And somehow… it all makes perfect sense to me.

Being a polymath feels like living in colour. Every skill I learn feeds another part of my life. Every curiosity becomes a doorway. Every new passion adds a layer to who I am and how I show up in the world.

Speech Pathology taught me to communicate with purpose

Working with kids and families has given me the deepest understanding of communication, not just the mechanics, but the heart behind it. Helping someone speak, read, learn, or connect unlocks something inside me too.

Life coaching taught me to listen, REALLY listen

Coaching helped me tune in to people’s dreams, fears, habits, and patterns. It made me a better therapist, a better friend, and honestly, a better human. It’s one of the skills that anchors everything else I do.

Acting taught me to feel everything fully

Acting is where I get to be bold, expressive, vulnerable, and creative in ways everyday life doesn’t always allow. It’s helped me understand characters, emotions, humanity – which loops right back into my coaching and therapy work.

Writing taught me to make sense of the world

Words are how I process life. From “The Speakable Child” to the new projects I’m creating, writing lets me turn ideas into stories, and stories into something useful for someone else.

Yoga taught me to breathe and soften

Yoga balances the fire. It reminds me to slow down, feel my body, and come back to myself, something all polymaths need because our brains can be like hummingbirds.

Pole art taught me strength, discipline, and play

Pole is where I surprise myself the most. The strength, the flow, the artistry; it’s a celebration of being human. It’s creative and athletic at the same time, and it’s one of the places where I feel the most free.

Business taught me courage

Speakable didn’t build itself. It took years of ideas, risks, failures, and growth. Being an entrepreneur showed me that creativity isn’t just an art; it’s a strategy.

What I love most about being a polymath

It’s not the titles or the skills.

It’s the way everything overlaps.

My acting improves my communication coaching.

My coaching improves my therapy.

My therapy work gives depth to my writing.

My writing clears my mind for yoga.

Yoga strengthens my discipline for pole.

Pole energises me for everything else.

It’s all connected like a tapestry of passions that weave together into one life.

I love being a polymath because it lets me be all of me.

Not half. Not one slice.

All.

And if there’s one message I hope people take from my journey, it’s this:

You don’t need to choose one dream.

You’re allowed to choose many and let them shape you into something extraordinary.

Binh

August 16, 2025August 16, 2025

From Idea to Impact: 11 Lessons in 11 Years of Speakable

This year, we celebrate 11 years of Speakable Speech Pathology – a milestone that reminds us how far a simple idea can grow when it’s backed by passion, persistence, and purpose.

When I first started Speakable in 2014, I couldn’t have imagined the incredible journey it would become. What began as a vision to help children find their voice has grown into a thriving practice that impacts families every day.

Along the way, we’ve learned a lot about what it takes to build not just a business, but a mission-driven start-up that lasts.

To celebrate, I’d like to share 11 lessons from 11 years that shaped Speakable and can help guide anyone dreaming of starting something of their own.

1. Start with purpose

The heart of any successful start-up is a clear “why.” For Speakable, it was simple: helping children become confident communicators and learners. Purpose fuels resilience – it’s what keeps you going when things get hard.

2. Solve a real problem

A start-up only works if it addresses a genuine need. Parents were searching for practical, evidence-based strategies to support their children’s speech and language. Speakable was built to fill that gap with accessible, personalised solutions.

3. Begin small, dream big

Speakable didn’t begin with a full team, branded office, or polished systems. It started with a commitment to serve (and a small table). Growth followed naturally as we stayed focused on helping one family at a time.

4. Build relationships, not just clients

Our growth has always come from word-of-mouth referrals and long-term relationships. People don’t just buy services as they invest in trust, care, and genuine connection.

5. Adapt and evolve

The pandemic taught us this lesson most vividly. We pivoted to online services, developed new resources, and found ways to support families remotely. Flexibility kept us relevant and resilient.

6. Hire for heart and skill

As Speakable grew, so did our team. We learned to bring in people who not only had the expertise, but also shared the same vision and values. Culture is the backbone of a strong start-up.

7. Keep learning

Running a business means wearing many hats. At the start, I was a clinician, a marketer, a manager, a technician, a cleaner and a coach. I invested in learning constantly, whether it was professional development, business strategy, or leadership training.

8. Celebrate small wins

Every milestone matters. From a child saying their first word to expanding our clinic, celebrating progress kept the journey joyful.

9. Stay financially grounded

Growth is exciting, but sustainability requires careful planning. From reinvesting profits to setting fair fees, keeping Speakable financially healthy ensured we could keep serving families long-term.

10. Give back

Success isn’t just measured in profit – it’s about impact. Speakable has always been about more than therapy sessions. It’s about empowering parents, training future clinicians, and sharing knowledge through workshops and writing.

Over the years, we’ve also extended our impact by supporting charities such as the World Food Programme, Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, and One Tree Planted. Giving back has been an essential part of our journey because true success comes from creating ripples of change beyond your own business.

11. Never lose sight of the vision

Through every challenge, from long hours to unexpected changes, the vision of Speakable – to give children a voice – has been the guiding light. That vision has kept us grounded, inspired, and moving forward.

Looking ahead

Eleven years in, Speakable is stronger than ever. The road hasn’t always been easy, but it has been worth it. If there’s one message I’d share with anyone starting a new venture, it’s this: anchor yourself in purpose, stay adaptable, and keep learning.

Here’s to the next chapter, and to every dreamer ready to turn their idea into something remarkable.

Big hugs,

Bình

June 5, 2025

If you believe: Finding my voice in a new country

When I was 15, I moved to Australia from Vietnam, and honestly, it was rough.

I didn’t speak much English. I was shy. Everything felt different and unfamiliar. I’d sit in class, trying to keep my head down, hoping no one would notice me. Not because I didn’t care – I just didn’t know how to join in. I had so many thoughts but couldn’t really find the words to express them.

At times, it felt like my voice was stuck somewhere deep inside, and I didn’t know how to bring it out.

But something in me wouldn’t quit. Maybe it was the thought of my family, who gave up so much to get me here. Maybe it was just that quiet belief that somehow, I could figure it out. So I kept going.

I studied harder than ever. I asked questions, even when it made me uncomfortable. I read everything I could. I slowly pushed through the fear and the awkwardness. One step at a time.

Eventually, I started to get it. I made it through high school. Then I went on to uni. Then, against all odds, I became a biomedical scientist.

But my journey didn’t stop there.

Because of what I went through – struggling with language, confidence, and connection – I felt drawn to help others who might feel the same. So, I became a speech pathologist. Fast forward to today, I now run my own clinic in Sydney, supporting kids and families to find their voice, build their confidence, and feel heard.

It’s crazy to think back to that quiet 15-year-old version of me, the one who felt lost and unsure. He wouldn’t believe where we are now.

But that’s the thing. You don’t need to have it all figured out at once. You just need to take the next step. And then the next.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: when you believe in yourself, even just a little, you can overcome way more than you think.

So, if you’re struggling right now, or feeling like you’re behind, or like you don’t belong – keep going.

You’ve got more strength in you than you know.

And if you believe in yourself, even a tiny bit, that’s enough to start.

Hugs & peace,

Bình

April 30, 2025April 30, 2025

From Passion to Practice: 8 Lessons Learned in 11 Years of Business

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a childhood interest in business into a flourishing speech pathology practice? Growing up, I was more fascinated by the hustle of helping my parents with their business in Vietnam than by any school lesson. This early experience sparked a love for entrepreneurship that eventually led me to start Speakable Speech Pathology in 2014 in Sydney, Australia.

Over the past decade or so, I’ve picked up a few key lessons that have not only shaped how I approach my profession but have also deeply enriched my personal life.

Here are 8 big takeaways from my journey:

1. Relationships are everything

At our practice, it’s all about more than just the usual appointments; it’s about building real, meaningful connections. We treat everyone who walks through our door like family. This friendly vibe helps everyone feel included and supported, not just during sessions but as part of our bigger family circle. It’s cool to see how this turns our clients into friends who really get involved and feel connected to what we do at Speakable.

2. Stay flexible

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we quickly adapted by transitioning to telehealth services. This not only kept our practice running but also demonstrated our commitment to our clients’ progress and well-being under any circumstances. Flexibility in therapy approaches, like incorporating more digital tools or adjusting strategies based on client feedback, has also been crucial.

3. Never stop learning

My team and I personally take courses annually on the latest developments in speech & language pathology which has tremendously enhanced the therapy sessions we offer. Staying updated through continual education ensures that we are equipped with the most effective and innovative therapy techniques.

4. Set boundaries for a healthy work-life balance

Learning to set boundaries early on was essential. For example, I make it a point to not schedule clients after 6 PM so that I can have evenings with my friends, family and other hobbies. This helps maintain a sustainable work-life balance and prevents burnout.

5. Broaden your horizons

We diversified our services by introducing group therapy sessions and workshops for parents on how to support speech development at home. This not only helped stabilize our revenue streams but also catered to a broader segment of our community, enhancing our practice’s impact.

6. Get involved locally

Participating in local health fairs and school events has significantly boosted our practice’s visibility and reputation. By offering free screenings and workshops, we’ve been able to demonstrate our commitment to community wellness and draw in new clients who are looking for trusted local services.

7. Embrace technology

Investing in an integrated practice management software revolutionized how we handle appointments, billing, and client records. This technology has not only streamlined administrative tasks but also improved client satisfaction through smoother processes.

8. Feedback is gold

We regularly collect feedback through surveys at the end of each therapy cycle. This has been instrumental in fine-tuning our services. Celebrating positive feedback and addressing constructive criticism transparently has helped foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Running a speech pathology business is so much more than a day job—it’s a never-ending adventure of growth and discovery. These 8 lessons we’ve shared are just the beginning. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities that push us to learn more, do better, and think bigger. I’m really pumped to see where these insights will lead us and how they’ll help us make an even bigger impact.

What kind of business are you running or thinking of starting? How do you see it evolving? Let’s inspire each other with our stories and ambitions!

Binh

March 13, 2025

Blending Art and Science: The Intersection of Acting and Speech Pathology

As someone deeply embedded in both the acting world and the realm of speech pathology, I’ve discovered some powerful synergies between the two disciplines that have profoundly influenced my approach to therapy.

Acting, at its core, is about communication—conveying emotions, ideas, and narratives in a way that resonates with an audience. Similarly, speech pathology focuses on enhancing a person’s ability to communicate effectively.

But how exactly does acting influence my practice as a speech pathologist? Let me share some real-world insights and stories from my journey.

Using acting techniques to build confidence

One of the first lessons in acting is about building confidence—being able to stand in front of an audience and deliver your lines without letting your nerves get the better of you. This aspect of acting has been invaluable in my speech pathology sessions, especially with clients who struggle with speech anxieties or social communication.

For instance, I worked with a young client, let’s call her A, who was extremely shy and had difficulty speaking up in class. Drawing from acting, I introduced her to warm-up exercises like those used in theatre rehearsals. We practiced projecting her voice, using exaggerated expressions, and even some improvisation games. Over time, Mia’s confidence increased. She began participating more actively in class discussions and even joined drama as one for one of her school subjects.

Emotional expression and speech dynamics

Acting has taught me a lot about the nuances of emotional expression and how these can enhance speech dynamics. In therapy, I often use exercises that actors employ to convey different emotions through tone, volume, and pace. This is particularly useful for clients who speak in a monotone or whose speech lacks variation.

Take the case of S, a teenager with autism who struggled with monotonous speech. By incorporating role-playing scenarios that required expressing excitement, sadness, or curiosity, S began to understand how his tone could change the meaning of his words. His newfound ability to vary his speech made his communication more engaging and expressive.

Script analysis and speech planning

In acting, script analysis helps actors understand their characters’ motivations, which influences how they deliver their lines. This concept translates seamlessly into speech pathology, where I teach clients to plan their speech depending on their communication goals.

For example, during a session with a client preparing for a job interview, we analysed typical interview questions as if they were lines from a script. We discussed the intent behind each question and planned appropriate responses, focusing on delivering them in a way that showcased his strengths and enthusiasm for the position.

Feedback and adjustment

Finally, the iterative process of acting—where you continually receive feedback and make adjustments—is a critical component of effective speech therapy. Just as a director provides feedback to actors, I provide continuous, constructive feedback to my clients to help them refine their communication skills.

In a recent group therapy session, we created a mini-play, and each participant had roles with specific speaking parts. After each run-through, we discussed what went well and what could be improved, much like a rehearsal discussion in a theatre setting. This not only helped in fine-tuning speech skills but also fostered a supportive community among the participants.

Conclusion

The intersection of acting and speech pathology is a testament to how art and science can blend beautifully to enhance human capabilities. By integrating acting techniques into my speech pathology practice, I’ve been able to offer unique, creative solutions that motivate, inspire, and make learning enjoyable for my clients. Whether it’s through confidence-building, emotional expression, strategic planning, or iterative feedback, the art of acting continues to enrich the science of speech therapy in dynamic ways.

This cross-disciplinary approach not only makes therapy sessions more effective but also more enjoyable, proving that sometimes, a touch of art is just what science needs to change lives for the better.

I’d love to hear your thoughts or experiences on blending art with science in your own careers. Drop a comment below or reach out on my socials!

Bình

“An Inspector Calls” at Darlo Drama, Sydney, 2023

“Macbeth” with Matt Dell at Darlo Drama, Sydney, 2024

February 8, 2025

Finding Balance: Juggling It All

So, you’re wondering how I manage everything from stand-up comedy classes and acting, to pole fitness, jiu-jitsu, and a full-time gig in speech pathology? Well, it’s definitely a mix of fun and frantic, but here’s how I keep things rolling without dropping the ball.

1. Setting goals

Each activity I’m into has its own vibe and purpose. Comedy keeps me on my toes, acting builds my empathy, pole and jiu-jitsu keep me fit, and my day job? Well, that’s where I get to make a real difference helping people communicate. I set clear goals for each to make sure they’re not just random things I do, but integral parts of who I am and want to be.

2. Time management

This is key. I’ve got a digital calendar that’s color-coded and blocked out for each activity. It sounds a bit much, but it helps me ensure I’m dedicating enough time to each without overbooking myself.

3. Self-care

Can’t stress this enough. With a schedule like mine, running out of juice is a real risk. So, I make sure to get enough sleep, eat right, weekly massages, and throw some yoga/mindfulness into the mix. It keeps my energy up so I can keep up with everything I’ve set out to do.

4. Stay flexible

Plans change and so do my energy levels. Some days, the best move is to skip the gym for some extra downtime. Being flexible means I can adjust on the go, which keeps me from burning out.

5. Connect the dots

Linking what I learn and experience in one area of my life to others helps too. The confidence from acting and comedy? It’s gold when I’m at work. Everything feeds into everything else in some way.

6. Lean on your squad

It’s tough to manage all this on your own. I’ve got friends, fellow hobbyists, and co-workers who get the hustle. They’re great for bouncing ideas off or venting when things become difficult.

7. Check-in with yourself

Every now and then, I take a step back to see what’s working and what’s not. It’s about being honest with myself and tweaking things if something feels off, like cutting back on an activity that no longer fits.

Balancing a bunch of passions with work is crazy but fulfilling. It’s all about enjoying the ride without getting overwhelmed. Organize, prioritize, and be ready to adapt. That’s how you make it work without losing your cool.

Comment below if you have any other tips and tricks.

Cheers,

Binh

Empowering voices, Enriching lives

May 26, 2023May 26, 2023

8 Ways to Relate Well to Children

After working with children for a number of years in the speech pathology industry, I’ve been able to learn how to relate well to them.

Building rapport with children involves communicating effectively, understanding their needs and creating a positive connection.

Here are some tips that you might find helpful when interacting with the little ones:

With one of my students at Speakable Speech Pathology (Permission to post given by parents)

1. Show genuine interest: Take a sincere interest in what children have to say. Ask them questions, listen and respond with enthusiasm. Show that you value their opinions and thoughts.

2. Use age-appropriate language: Change your language and vocabulary to suit the child’s comprehension level and age. Avoid using complex terms when explaining things. Speak clearly and use simple words to ensure their understanding.

3. Active listening: Give children your full attention when speaking to them. Maintain eye contact, nod, and respond appropriately. This shows them that you are listening and that their words matter.

4. Respect their feelings: Children experience a wide range of emotions. Acknowledge their feelings, whether negative or positive, and validate them. Help them understand and express their emotions in healthy ways.

5. Be patient and understanding: Children may take time to express themselves or understand certain concepts. Be patient and give them time and space to process their thoughts. Offer your support when needed. Avoid rushing or dismissing their concerns.

6. Play and engage: Children learn through play and engaging activities. Join in their playtime, participate in their games, and encourage their creativity. This creates a sense of connection and makes them feel valued.

7. Use positive reinforcement: Praise and reward them for their efforts and achievements. Focus on their strengths and encourage their progress. Positive reinforcement boosts their self-confidence and motivates them to continue learning and growing.

8. Be a role model: Children often observe and imitate the behavior of adults around them. Demonstrate respect, kindness, empathy, and good manners. Model positive behavior and values to set a good example for them.

Ultimately, every child is unique and it’s important to adapt these tips to suit their individual needs and personalities. Building a strong relationship with children takes time and effort, but the rewards are invaluable.

Thank you for reading,

Bình

March 18, 2015March 18, 2015

A Day in the Life of a Speech Pathologist

“My mission in life is to help as many people as possible with speaking, reading and confidence.”

Good morning,

It’s time to grab some breakfast: multigrain toast with scrambled eggs. I’m getting some energy for a busy day ahead.

8 AM. Feeling awesome and preparing therapy materials for my clients. It’s time to get creative and tailor various activities according to their needs.

First up, I’m helping an adult who has been diagnosed with speech apraxia. We’re working on the consonants R, V and TH to increase the clarity of their speech. Lots of practice to strengthen those neurological pathways for speech and coordination.

Next up, 2 Accent Training clients who happen to work on one of the hardest sounds of English – the TH sound. It isn’t easy to place the tongue in between the teeth to make the sound, but we manage to say our words (e.g., the, think….) and even practice them in phrase and sentences. We also practice word, phrase and sentence stress at the conversation level. A Toobaloo, a mirror and a set of teeth are used regularly to give my clients auditory, visual and tactile feedback, assisting their pronunciation and helping them to articulate various sounds correctly and clearly.

1 PM. Having lunch in the sun at a local cafe.

After lunch, I meet up with a 3-year-old who used to be non-verbal. This client can now speak in phrases and sentences and can also follow simple instructions. Fantastic! I was given some Easter eggs too.

Next, I’m working with a young client who has problem articulating various sounds such as the SK cluster (e.g., school, ski….). We start with some listening exercises and then proceed onto single words. The pirate game helps a lot when it comes to providing positive reinforcement.

At the end of the day, 2 High School students come to work on their reading and spelling. We have so much fun learning and practicing these skills.

The day has ended on a positive note. I am exhausted but feel so thankful to be working in an area that I’m absolutely passionate about: speaking, language and literacy.

Thank you for reading. Hope this blog gives you an idea of what it’s like to be a Speech Pathologist.

Until then, be happy and healthy.

Binh

February 23, 2014February 9, 2016

Swimming Upstream

“I think we’re going to the moon because it’s in the nature of the human being to face challenges. It’s by the nature of his deep inner soul…we’re required to do these things just as salmon swim upstream.” – Neil Armstrong

Hi, my name is Binh Doan and this is my testimony. I would like to share this message to inspire people to become whoever they want to be and to make their dreams come true regardless of their outer circumstances.

I was born in Saigon, Vietnam, in 80’s. My parents, who came from a poor background, worked extremely hard all their lives to provide a good education to my 3 older siblings and myself. At 15, I decided to travel to Brisbane (Australia) to complete my High School education. With some English to help me get by, I attended Year 11 but had difficulty fitting into the school system. I continued to struggle during my first year with understanding English and expressing myself. I spoke English with a strong accent, and the sounding of my name was sometimes made fun of by the local kids. It took me over a year to settle into the new environment and to learn about the new culture. My English continued to improve. I was a quiet kid. Sometimes, I felt like an outsider and often went to the library after school to study until late. I taught myself to tune my ears into learning how to speak like an Aussie. At the beginning of Year 12, I felt much better about my communication skills and began to catch up with my peers.

It took me over a year to settle into the new environment and to learn about the new culture. My English continued to improve. I was a quiet kid. Sometimes, I felt like an outsider and often went to the library after school to study until late. I taught myself to tune my ears into learning how to speak like an Aussie. At the beginning of Year 12, I felt much better about my communication skills and began to catch up with my peers. There were hard times but I did not want to give up. I wanted to graduate from High School, attend University and then get a good job. That would make my parents happy, as they had sacrificed so much for my education.

In 1998, I graduated from High School and was accepted into the University of Queensland. I completed my Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2001. I then continued with my studies and obtained a Masters in Speech Pathology (2003). Throughout university, I had various part-time jobs, such as working in a fish & chips shop, helping out as a uni guide (at UQ) and serving people as a waiter in a local restaurant. These jobs not only helped me pay the bills but also helped improve my social and language skills.

In April 2004, after months of searching, I finally got a job offer in Sydney. That was my first job as a Speech Pathologist and it was based in Campbelltown. Ever since, I have been working in private practice, helping children, teenagers and adults with their speech, language and literacy difficulties. In 2011, I completed my training and obtained the CELTA (offered by Cambridge University) at

All my life, I had always wanted to be a good person and to work hard in order to make my parents and family proud. In 2007, I earned my Australian citizenship. I then decided to sponsor my parents to come and spend their retirement in Sydney. My siblings and I spent almost 2 years to complete all the paper work. In 2010, my parents migrated to Australia to reunite with the family. A few months after their arrival, tragedy struck. My Dad had a sudden heart attack, followed by a stroke, and passed away at 65. My Mum, while mourning for Dad, had to deal with her newly diagnosis of lung cancer (stage 4). Mum received various types of treatment such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and alternative medicine. She was brave until the end. In January 2012, my Mum passed away at 69.

Losing both parents within a short period of time was the most painful experience that I’ve ever had. I was in a state of confusion and was not sure what to do with my life. I sought help from a grief counsellor, who offered some great advice. However, the pain was too vast. For almost 6 months, bad thoughts came to me on a regular basis. I was not happy with life and work. However, I tried to think, “What would my parents want me to do?”. I could not give up, considering all the hard work that they had put into providing me with a good education and a good life.

I started to read various books on dealing with grief and realised that I could use my time and energy on helping others who are in need. My parents were true givers and my role models. Ever since, I’ve been involved in a number of charity events. I do feel great about being able to contribute to others’ happiness. In April 2013, I stumbled across Anthony Robbins’ “Awaken the Giant Within”. This is an inspirational and powerful book that has opened my eyes to possibilities, life and shown me how much control I have over my own life. I am now on the mend and have taken a full interest in helping others who are struggling to reach their full potential.

In August 2013, I decided to become a Life Coach and was registered with The Australian Institute of Coaching (AIC). It was a tremendously life-changing experience with all the support from the AIC team and friends/family. In August 2014, I graduated and am now fully qualified as a Life Coach. I am passionate in helping others who want to take charge and make a difference in their own lives.

Through integrating all the skills that I have learnt in the past 18 years, my goal is to help individuals achieve their life goals to the best of their abilities e.g., communication skills (speech, language, reading, spelling, writing, ESL, working memory, public speaking & accent training), study / interview skills, and confidence coaching.

In September 2014, I created Speakable, a Speech-Language Pathology & Life Coaching practice in Bondi Junction. My mission is to help people of all ages find their voice in this world and to increase their confidence in order to turn their dreams into reality.

At the moment, I’m running Speak Up Australia – a group where people get together, connect and learn to conquer the top human fear of Public Speaking. We meet every second Thursday of the month to inspire each other with positive ideas and life stories.