Today we’d like to introduce you to Heidi Martino.
Hi Heidi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been a pediatric speech-language pathologist for over 11 years, working with kids from preschool through elementary school. From the very beginning, I found a passion for using play as the foundation of my therapy sessions. My sessions were more fun and progress was faster when I used play-based strategies with my students/clients!
Back in 2019, while at our national SLP convention, I had one of those lightbulb moments and came up with the idea for my first business, Speech Cube. I thought, “Wouldn’t it be amazing if SLPs could just open a box and have everything they need for themed sessions ready to go?” So that’s exactly what I (and a fellow SLP) did—we create monthly themed boxes with toys, games, and books that make therapy both easier to plan and way more fun.
Then in 2023, I leaned even further into my love of toys and launched My Speech Shop. This one is all about hand-picking products that I know kids will love—whether it’s a game, toy, or book—and then pairing it with visual supports, parent tips, and extension activities so they can be used to build speech and language skills right away.
Now I juggle both businesses while still working part-time in a local school district. I love keeping one foot in the school setting, working directly with preschoolers and elementary kids, because they’re the ones who inspire everything I create. It’s a busy mix, but honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I definitely wouldn’t call business ownership a smooth road—there’s always a learning curve when you’re starting something new! When I first launched Speech Cube, I quickly realized that the subscription box world is its own unique business model. Everything runs on a very specific timeline, and it took my business partner and I a few years to really figure out the rhythm. Along the way, our boxes have also evolved—from a mix of random items and products to more cohesive, themed boxes with options for organization.
By the time I started My Speech Shop, I had the basics down, but this business brought a whole new set of lessons. Managing inventory has been its own adventure! I also started out creating very simple activity sets to go with each product. Over time those activity sets have grown and expanded (which I love!), but it also means I spend more time creating behind the scenes.
And of course, the biggest balancing act is juggling both businesses while also being present for my two kids and my husband. It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned that the challenges just come with the territory—and honestly, my love for being creative in both businesses keeps me going!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Early on in my career, I noticed a big gap: there really wasn’t a go-to place where speech therapists, parents, or special educators could find toys and books that were both engaging and perfect for working on common speech therapy goals. Unless you wanted to shop endlessly at big-name stores, you were kind of on your own. That’s what inspired me to create a one-stop shop where SLPs can come when they need something fresh and fun for their sessions.
But it’s not just about therapists—parents are the biggest part of a child’s growth, & I wanted to make sure families felt empowered too. That’s why every product in My Speech Shop comes with simple parent-friendly strategies. Because it’s not about the exact toy you use—it’s about how you play with it. Helping parents see that—while equipping them with tools they can use every day—is another goal.
Another thing I’m proud of is how we pair every product with FREE digital activities—coloring sheets, extension activities, visuals—so families and SLPs have everything they need in one purchase. In a world where there are endless digital downloads floating around online (and it can get overwhelming fast!), I wanted to simplify things and keep it all connected to the toys and books kids already love.
At the end of the day, what sets us apart is that we combine my love of play with practical, ready-to-use tools for both therapists and parents. I want readers to know that My Speech Shop isn’t just about selling toys—it’s about helping kids grow through play and making life a little easier (and more fun!) for the adults supporting them.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I definitely haven’t done this alone, and there are a few people who deserve a big thank you. First, my business partner Liz at Speech Cube—she’s the one who keeps me grounded when my creative brain is running a mile a minute (and when I decide to make last-minute changes!).
I also want to give a huge shout-out to my fellow SLPs who choose to support my business. It’s so easy to click “add to cart” with a big-name store, so every single order from a colleague (& parent!!) means the world to me. That support is what keeps me going.
And of course, my husband deserves all the credit in the world. From hauling boxes in and out of the house to handling late nights of order fulfillment—and being an incredible partner in this parenting gig—he’s earned a lot of extra points these last few years!
My mom, who’s a retired teacher, has also been such a lifesaver. She’s always ready to jump in when I’m overwhelmed or need an extra set of hands packing orders. I couldn’t do this without her help!
Pricing:
- My Speech Shop: Pricing varies! Save 10% by joining our email list.
- My Speech Shop: Save 10% when you buy 3 items in the same theme!
- Speech Cube: $49.99 per box; or subscription options starting at $44.99 per box
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.myspeechshop.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/myspeechshop
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myspeechshop/
- Other: https://www.speechcube.com
