In the Field: The ABA Podcast

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Nicole Stewart, BCBA, to talk about what ADHD really looks like in kids and adults, and why it's so often overlooked in clinical work. Nicole brings over 15 years of experience in the field. She now runs a private practice offering therapy, parent coaching, and ADHD-focused training for organizations, after years of clinical work that included time at the New England Center for Children and as a clinical director. We get into Nicole's perspectives on what ADHD actually is on a neurobiological level, why it's so often masked or misdiagnosed (especially in girls), and why pairing and rapport, not bigger reinforcers, are usually the real lever for behavior change. We also talk about how organizations can build ADHD aware training and supervision systems for staff, not just clients.Key Topics:ADHD as a Neurobiological Difference, Not Just a Behavior Pattern: Why ADHD comes down to how the brain regulates dopamine, how that shapes prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia development, and why understanding the neurology changes how we individualize treatment.Masking and Missed Diagnoses: Why girls with inattentive ADHD are so often overlooked when "behavioral contrast" between home and school leads to under-diagnosis, and what that masking actually costs kids emotionally.Executive Functioning, Defined: Nicole breaks down executive functioning as "the CEO of the brain" and explains why a child's executive functioning age can lag years behind their chronological age, creating mismatched expectations.Emotional Regulation and the Fight or Flight Connection: How a highly sensitive nervous system response can turn something small (a bump in the hallway) into a major escalation, and why teaching emotional recognition has to come before teaching coping skills.Skill Deficit vs Performance Deficit: Why ADHD related "noncompliance" is so often misread as a skill issue or simple defiance when it's actually a performance deficit driven by interest, novelty, or response effort.Pairing Over Bigger Reinforcers: Why a strong, conditioned relationship with the learner is the single most effective ADHD strategy Nicole has found, more impactful than denser reinforcement schedules or larger rewards.Supporting Staff with ADHD, Not Just Clients: How clinical supervisors can apply universal design for learning to staff trainings, and why clear contingencies, written follow-ups, and flexible scheduling support BCBAs® and RBTs® who are themselves neurodivergent.Key Takeaways:ADHD is a medical and neurobiological condition, not just a set of behaviors to extinguish.Masking can delay diagnosis, especially in girl, leaving real struggles invisible.Corrective feedback disproportionately affects kids with ADHD, often four to five times more than their peers, fueling shame and avoidance over time.Pairing and rapport outperform bigger reinforcers or denser schedules when working with ADHD learners.Universal design for learning benefits every learner and every staff member, not only those with ADHD.Skill deficits and performance deficits require different solutions, and ADHD often hides as the latter.Organizational training on ADHD, alongside autism and other comorbid diagnoses, improves individualization across the board.Keywords:ADHD, ABA and ADHD, Executive Functioning, Emotional Regulation, Skill Deficit vs Performance Deficit, Pairing, Universal Design for Learning, Masking in Girls, Neurodivergent Staff, BCBA® Supervision, RBT® Training, Nicole Stewart, Mom The Behaviorist, ADHD Coaching, Comorbid Diagnoses, ADHD in the WorkplaceConnect with Nicole Stewart:Website: nicolestewartbcba.comInstagram: @mom_the_behavioristPodcast: Reinforcing ConversationsCEUs on ADHD: Search "Nicole Stewart" on BehaviorLiveDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with April and Stephen Smith of 3PieSquared and the ABA Business Leaders Podcast. April is a BCaBA with nearly three decades of experience in the field, and Stephen brings a background in quality management and engineering that shaped the operational backbone of everything they built together. They ran their own ABA practice for 12 years before closing it and transitioning into full-time consulting, where they now support more than 1,600 ABA organizations across the country.This conversation covers a lot of ground: the origin story of their practice, the lessons they learned the hard way, what they wish they had when they were starting out, and why they named their new book "The ABA Business Leader's Guide: How to Start, Grow, and Sustain an Ethical ABA Practice Without Losing Your Soul." If you are a BCBA® thinking about starting a practice, already in the thick of running one, or trying to figure out how to scale without burning yourself and your team to the ground, this episode is for you.Key Topics:The Origin Story and Early Chaos: April and Stephen started with a frustration, a neighborhood walk, and a decision to figure it out as they went, including learning insurance billing the hard way while navigating a newborn and a dwindling savings account.Vision: The Thing Most Founders Skip: April and Stephen did not have a shared vision when they started and it was not until year four that they actually sat down and asked what they were building and how they wanted it to feel.Hiring BCBAs®: The Skills and Gaps You Need to Plan For: Hiring BCBAs® surfaced unexpected gaps in assessment repertoires, parent training, and soft skills, reflecting a field-wide assumption that certification equals readiness to lead and manage.Building Systems That Let You Step Back: April encourages owners to apply the same behavioral thinking they use clinically to their operations: write task analyses, define expectations in observable terms, and give consistent feedback.Delegating, Outsourcing, and Prioritizing Hires: Stephen's practical framework starts with an accountant and an attorney, then works backward from your dream job to identify what is standing between you and it.The Ethics of Profitability: The incentives in this field currently reward lower-trained staff and higher turnover. April and Stephen have built their consulting work around helping owners resist that trap.Closing a Business and the Identity Shift That Follows: April speaks openly about the identity crisis that came with closing their practice and how intertwined her sense of self had become with what they built.Boundaries, Parenthood, and the Myth of Work-Life Balance: April shares how she learned to set and model firm boundaries with staff and restructure her own workday to protect her effectiveness at work and her presence at home.Key Takeaways:Vision is not optional. Know what you are building, how big you want it to be, and what it needs to look like when you are done, before you are two years in and wondering why you feel stuck.Profitability is an ethical issue. You cannot pour back into your team, your training systems, or your clients if your margins do not support it. Financial sustainability is part of ethical practice.Systems make delegation possible. You do not need a formal business background to build them. Use what you already know: task analysis, behavioral specificity, clear expectations, and consistent feedback.BCBAs® are not automatically ready to lead or manage. Build mentorship and soft skills development into your supervision model from the beginning.Closing or exiting a business is a real transition that deserves preparation, both operationally and personally.Self-awareness is not a soft skill. Knowing when you are micromanaging, when you need support, and when your identity has become too entangled with your business is essential to sustainability.Keywords: Efficiency, Assent, Foundational Skills, Effective Treatment, Matching Law, Instructional Design, Ethics Code 2.0, Dimensions Grid, DRA, Blunt Extinction, Behavior Efficiency, Steve Ward, Whole Child Consulting, Inventory of Good Learner Repertoires, ABA Ethics, BCBA® Supervision Resources:Connect with April and Stephen Smith - Free Consultation Booking LinkBook: "The ABA Business Leader's Guide: How to Start, Grow, and Sustain an Ethical ABA Practice Without Losing Your Soul" by April and Stephen SmithWebsite: 3PieSquaredPodcast: ABA Business Leaders PodcastDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Becky Eldridge, Ph.D. BCBA-D, researcher, and mentor with 17 years of experience in behavior analysis. Becky brings both personal passion and scholarly depth to the topic of mentorship, having completed her dissertation on clinical decision making for BCBAs and having witnessed firsthand what happens when new behavior analysts enter the field without adequate support. We dig into what mentorship actually is, how it differs from supervision, and why that distinction matters so much for new BCBAs who are trying to find their footing. Key Topics:Supervision vs. Mentorship: Not all support looks the same. Supervision is often tied to performance outcomes that may serve an organization. Mentorship centers on you. Your goals, your values, and what is meaningful to you. Knowing the difference can change who you turn to and when.Finding the Right Fit in a Mentor: Trust matters, but so does experience. Becky recommends Brené Brown's BRAVING Inventory as a starting point for evaluating fit, and emphasizes finding someone who has actually navigated the situations you are facing.Internal vs. External Mentorship: Becky makes a strong case for seeking mentorship outside your organization, especially early in your career. When competing contingencies exist between what is good for you and what is good for the organization, true objectivity is hard to find internally.What Mentorship Actually Looks Like: At its core, mentorship is about building self-management.Formal vs. Informal Mentorship: Formal mentorship means dedicated time and a mutual commitment to showing up consistently. Informal mentorship happens more organically, through relationships that develop over time without a structured agreement. Mentorship and the Evolution of the Field: The field has grown fast, and mentorship has not always kept up. Becky's advice is simple: stop waiting for it to find you. Get involved in your state chapter, go to your state conference, and meet people. Key Takeaways:Supervision is about specific performance outcomes. Mentorship is about supporting your goals and your growth.A sponsor is someone who creates or advocates for opportunities you would not have had otherwise, and that role can be distinct from both supervisor and mentor.Trust is essential in a mentoring relationship, but experience matters just as much. Find someone who has done what you are trying to do.Seek external mentorship, especially early in your career, when you need perspective.Mentorship can be formal (dedicated time, clear expectations) or informal (opportunistic, reciprocal, peer-based). Both are valuable.If you are waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect person, stop waiting. People are people. Ask.Resources Mentioned:Building and Sustaining Meaningful and Effective Relationships as a Supervisor and Mentor, by Dr. Linda LeBlanc, Dr. Tyra Sellers, and Dr. Shahla Ala'i-RosalesDare to Lead by Brené Brown, including the BRAVING Inventory (available free on her website)Connect with Dr. Becky Eldridge:LinkedIn: Becky EldridgeWebsite: https://beckyeldridge.com/Keywords:BCBA mentorship, ABA mentorship, supervision vs mentorship, clinical decision making ABA, new BCBA support, BCBA career growth, self-management behavior analysis, ABA leadership, fieldwork supervision, behavior analyst professional development, Becky Eldridge, In the Field ABA Podcast, Sidekick LearningDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Arthur Hairston, BCBA and entrepreneur, to talk about a corner of our field that most BCBAs never get exposure to: residential services and group homes for children in foster care. Arthur has built and exited an ABA organization and is now focused on developing group homes for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His work sits at the intersection of clinical quality, trauma-informed care, and systems leadership in an environment where care happens around the clock.Key Topics:Why BCBAs Belong in Foster Care Group Homes: BCBAs are not always part of the picture in foster care group homes, but Arthur makes the case for why they should be and what it means for kids who have spent years on waitlists.The 24/7 Business Model: Running a residential program is a fundamentally different business than a traditional ABA company. Arthur walks through what caught him off guard, from overtime costs and staffing ratios to the capital reserves required for licensure. Funding and Revenue Consistency: The group home model runs on a state and federal funding mix, creating more revenue consistency than traditional billing but a real cap on growth.Compassionate, Trauma-Informed Care: Arthur talks outings, community inclusion, and skills practice as the context in which clinical goals become achievable. Behavior is communication, and the first weeks with a new resident are about building trust.Delegation as a Business and Clinical Skill: Arthur opens up about letting go, partnering with his wife on operations, and why holding everything yourself puts your program's quality at risk.Training Staff in Residential Settings: Training in a residential setting goes well beyond behavior plans and data sheets. Arthur shares how his team prepares new staff for the emotional and relational complexity of this work, and why shadowing is a non-negotiable part of that process. Key Takeaways:BCBAs bring clinical infrastructure and systems thinking that directly benefit residents, even when it is not required. The residential model demands different business skills, including capital reserves, overtime management, and licensing timelines of six to nine months. Delegation is not optional. If you are the bottleneck, your program's sustainability is at risk. Training staff here means preparing them for the emotional and relational complexity of this work, not just the clinical tasks.Keywords: Group Home ABA, Residential Services ABA, BCBA, Foster Care Group Home, Trauma-Informed ABA, ABA Business Models, Group Home Licensing, ABA Entrepreneurship, Arthur Hairston, Med Waiver, Residential Program LeadershipConnect with Arthur Hairston: LinkedIn: Arthur HairstonWebsite and Free Group Home Checklist: go.ghleadership.comABA C.A.R.E.S. Summit: https://behaviorlive.com/conferences/abacares2026/homeDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Matt Harrington, BCBA® and founder of Provider Spark, the Behaviorist Book Club, and ABA Digital Marketing to talk about marketing through a behavioral lens. Matt brings a rare combination of clinical depth and marketing expertise, and this conversation is packed with practical strategy for ABA providers at every stage of growth.We cover what it really means to market ethically as an ABA provider, why quality and trust are the foundation of sustainable growth, and how the same behavioral principles that guide effective treatment can be applied to building referral networks and lasting care collaboration. Key Topics:Marketing Starts with Quality: Why word of mouth is the foundation of any sustainable ABA business and how delivering consistent wins for caregivers drives both retention and referrals.Speed to Lead and Say-Do Correspondence: Response time to new inquiries is a behavioral concept and what it signals to families about your trustworthiness as a provider matters more than most providers realize.Building a Referral Network: How to identify the right referral partners, get in front of them with enough volume to generate replies, and nurture those relationships into consistent referral sources.Care Collaboration as the Long Game: Why investing in care collaboration across your caseload compounds into referral relationships that no ad spend can replicate.Niche Clarity and Differentiation: Being the best provider for a specific client profile is more compelling and more ethical than saying yes to everyone.Profit as a Tool for Impact: A reframe for clinicians who feel uncomfortable with the business side. Profitability is what allows you to scale your mission.Key Takeaways:Quality is the foundation of all marketing. No strategy compensates for a service that does not deliver.Say-do correspondence applies to your intake process. Doing what you say you will do builds the trust that converts inquiries into long-term clients.Care collaboration is marketing in its most authentic form. When you collaborate well clinically, referrals follow naturally.Niche clarity makes your pitch more compelling and your services more effective.Profit enables impact. A sustainable business model allows you to reach more families and pay staff above market value.Keywords:ABA Marketing, ABA Business, Provider Relationships, Referral Network, Care Collaboration, BCBA® Business Development, ABA Intake Process, Say-Do Correspondence, Word of Mouth Marketing, Provider Spark, Behaviorist Book Club, Matt Harrington, ABA Differentiation, ABA Growth Strategy, ABA Digital MarketingConnect with Matt Harrington:LinkedIn: Matthew Harrington, BCBA®Provider Spark: providerspark.com/growBehaviorist Book Club: behavioristbookclub.comABA Digital Marketing: abadigitalmarketing.comDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Steve Ward, BCBA® and co-founder of Whole Child Consulting, to explore how efficiency, assent, and foundational learning repertoires can guide more ethical and effective interventions. Known for developing the Inventory of Good Learner Repertoires (I.G.L.R.) and co-authoring 2,100+ Inexpensive Ideas for Intrinsic Motivation in Play, Steve brings decades of experience in making behavior analytic teaching both technically sound and human-centered.We discuss what it really means to provide effective treatment under the BACB® Ethics Code, why efficiency is both a technical and ethical imperative, and how shaping, assent, and motivation intersect to support meaningful learning outcomes.Key Topics:Efficiency as an Ethical Imperative: Why efficiency matters for both ethics and outcomes, and how to balance effectiveness with learner experience.Assent and Engagement: How to identify genuine assent and use the STEAM framework to measure motivation and participation.Foundational Skills and the I.G.L.R.: Using the inventory to assess “learning-to-learn” repertoires that set the stage for engagement and independence.The Dimensions Grid: A tool for systematically shaping conditions to build durable, generalized skills through real-world variability.Beyond Blunt Extinction: Why altering the relative efficiencies of behaviors often produces more sustainable and humane results.Training RBTs® and Trainees: Helping new practitioners think conceptually, recognize assent, and avoid rigid “rule-governed” application of strategies.Key Takeaways:Efficiency is an ethical standard that ensures interventions are effective and humane.Foundational repertoires enable assent, flexibility, and learner autonomy.True assent reflects motivation and engagement across time, not mere compliance.Fun and flexibility in teaching promote lasting learning and rapport.Supervisors should model empiricism, guiding RBTs® and trainees to think critically, not mechanically.Keywords:Efficiency, Assent, Foundational Skills, Effective Treatment, Matching Law, Instructional Design, Ethics Code 2.0, Dimensions Grid, DRA, Blunt Extinction, Behavior Efficiency, Steve Ward, Whole Child Consulting, Inventory of Good Learner Repertoires, ABA Ethics, BCBA® SupervisionConnect with Steve Ward and Whole Child Consulting:Website: Whole Child Consulting Inventory of Good Learner Repertoires: Download Resources Book: 2,100+ Inexpensive Ideas for Intrinsic Motivation in Play Article: 50 Practical Ways to Alter the Relative Efficiencies of Behaviors Webinar: What Comes Before Series GOOD LEARNER REPERTOIRES: LinktreeDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Podcast Episode: Training in ABA Organizations with Shannon BiagiIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Shannon Biagi to unpack common training mistakes we see across ABA organizations and beyond.We talk about why training is often treated as the default solution, how content-heavy approaches fail to build real skills, and what it actually takes to design training that leads to performance. From “sit and get” learning to one-and-done onboarding, we break down where things go wrong and how to approach training in a more effective, sustainable way.Key Topics: Why training isn’t always the problem or the solution  Designing for performance, not just content  The limits of passive learning  Moving beyond one-time training  Evaluating whether training actually works  Why seniority doesn’t equal training ability Key Takeaways:Training should be driven by performance needs, not assumptions Designing for behavior change requires more than delivering content Active practice, feedback, and actual application are essential for skill development Training should be ongoing, not a one-time event Evaluation should measure what learners can do, not just what they experienced Building a strong training system requires both instructional design and performance analysis Resources MentionedPerformance Diagnostic Checklist – John AustinBehavioral Engineering Model – Thomas GilbertKirkpatrick’s Four Levels of Training EvaluationThe Mager Six Pack – instructional design and performance objectivesConnect with Shannon BiagiWebsite: chiefmotivatingofficers.comTraining and CEUs: motivate-u.chiefmotivatingofficers.comSocial Media: Instagram | LinkedInSubscribe to the Podcast:Don’t miss more conversations on supervision, training, and leadership in behavior analysis. Subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast and explore more resources at Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Podcast Episode: Creating a Strong ABA Business: Marketing, Mindset, and Mission with Tim ZercherIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Timothy Zercher, entrepreneur and CEO of A-Train Marketing, to talk about how ABA businesses can strengthen their marketing, clarify their message, and build in ways that align with their mission. Tim shares how his journey as a three-time founder and his personal ties to behavioral health led him to focus on the ABA space, and what he has learned working with organizations across the country.Key Topics:The ABA Marketing Gap: Why so many ABA companies struggle with differentiation and how clearer messaging can actually improve client fit and outcomes.The Website Factor: Why your website is often the number one barrier to growth, recruitment, and client acquisition, and what to prioritize if you invest in an update.Ethical and Effective Marketing: Strategies to market within compliance and confidentiality constraints without sacrificing authenticity or impact.Mindset Shifts for Owners: Why marketing should be viewed like accounting, a necessary function that supports growth, recruitment, and sustainability.Letting Go of the Bottleneck: How ABA leaders can overcome the challenge of wearing all the hats and when to invest in outside expertise.Leadership Lessons: What Tim has learned about trust, accountability, and clarity as a business owner, and how those lessons apply directly to ABA practice owners.Quick Wins: Practical steps ABA leaders can take today to strengthen their brand, attract the right families and staff, and reduce wasted time.Key Takeaways:Marketing is not “dirty” or optional, it is a service that connects families and staff to the care and culture you have built.Clear differentiation benefits everyone: it brings in the right clients, sets accurate expectations, and reduces frustration for families and staff alike.A strong website is not just a nice-to-have, it directly impacts your ability to recruit staff and attract the right families.As an owner, your time is worth more than you think. Outsourcing strategically can free you to grow your business and improve services.Strong leadership balances trust with accountability. Your team needs to know you believe in them and that their work truly matters.Keywords: ABA Business, ABA Marketing, Behavior Analysis, Business Leadership, Differentiation, Recruitment, Client Acquisition, ABA Entrepreneurship, Timothy Zercher, A-Train MarketingConnect with Tim Zercher and A-Train Marketing:Website: atrainmarketing.comLinkedIn: Timothy ZercherPodcast: Tim TalksSubscribe to the Podcast: Do not forget to subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for more practical conversations about supervision, training, and leadership in ABA. Visit Sidekick Learning for fieldwork supervision resources and continuing education opportunities.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Podcast Episode: The People Side of ABA: Recruiting, Onboarding, and Retaining Talent with Holli ClauserIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Holli Beth Clauser, founder of ABA C.A.R.E.S. Staffing, the ABA C.A.R.E.S. Conference, and host of The People Contingency Podcast.Holli brings a wealth of experience from her early days as a behavior technician to her current work helping ABA organizations rethink hiring, onboarding, and retention. We talk about how ABA principles can (and should) be applied to the people side of the field, why turnover is a clinical issue, and what ethical, retention-first hiring looks like in practice.Key Topics:The People Side of ABA: Holli shares her journey from direct care to founding ABA C.A.R.E.S. Staffing, and how her passion for improving client outcomes through better staff systems drives her work.Ethical, Retention-First Hiring: Why honesty and clarity during recruitment lead to long-term stability—and how being upfront about the realities of the job helps both candidates and clients.Data-Driven Decision Making: How organizations can use metrics beyond turnover rates to evaluate hiring, onboarding, and employee support.Bridging Operations, HR, and Clinical Teams: Strategies for breaking down silos and building collaboration between recruiters, clinicians, and leadership.Culture, Belonging, and Brand: How small decisions—from who gets celebrated to how feedback is handled—communicate organizational values and shape retention.The ABA C.A.R.E.S. Summit: Holli’s annual conference focused on workforce sustainability, leadership development, and meaningful collaboration across roles in ABA.Key Takeaways:Recruiting is not just filling seats—it’s the first step in delivering quality care.Retention starts before hiring. Being transparent about expectations builds trust and long-term alignment.ABA organizations must apply the same analytical rigor to people systems that they apply to client programs.Collaboration across HR, operations, and clinical leadership is essential for sustainable staffing systems.Building culture is an ethical act: how you treat your people directly impacts how they treat clients.Keywords: ABA Staffing, Retention, Recruitment, Onboarding, Organizational Culture, Workforce Sustainability, HR in ABA, Behavior Technician Hiring, Ethical Hiring, Employee Engagement, ABA Leadership, Holli Clauser, ABA C.A.R.E.S. ConferenceConnect with Holli:LinkedIn: Holli Beth ClauserEmail: [email protected]: ABA C.A.R.E.S. StaffingPodcast: The People ContingencySubscribe to the Podcast: Don’t miss more conversations about leadership, supervision, and workforce development in ABA. Subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for weekly insights from practitioners shaping the future of our field. Visit www.sidekicklearning.net for resources on fieldwork supervision, RBT® training, and continuing education.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Podcast Episode: Preventing Crisis and Building Culture: Leadership Lessons with Dr. Paul "Paulie" GavoniIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Paul Gavoni (better known as Dr. Paulie), BCBA® and organizational leader, to talk about leadership through the lens of behavior analysis. Dr. Paulie shares how his experiences in schools, coaching, and organizational behavior management shaped his approach to leadership. His core belief: leadership is not about titles, it is about behavior.Key Topics:From Frustration to Leadership: How Dr. Paulie’s early experiences with coercive leadership inspired him to study educational and organizational leadership, and why he sees behavior analysis as the foundation of all great leadership models.Leadership as Behavior, Not Title: Why the measure of leadership is found in the behavior of followers, and how anyone in an organization (BCBA®, RBT®, teacher, or parent) can be a leader.The Four Hats of Leadership: Dr. Paulie introduces his framework for leadership behavior:Leading Hat (inspiration and motivation)Training Hat (building fluency in pivotal skills)Coaching Hat (supporting generalization and independence)Managing Hat (maintaining systems and preventing drift)Feedback as the Core of Leadership: How feedback functions across hats, why good leaders create feedback-rich environments, and how radical vulnerability helps leaders model reflection and growth.Crisis Management and Systems Thinking: Drawing from his work with PCMA, Dr. Paulie explains how prevention, fluency, and system design are the best crisis management strategies for schools, clinics, and organizations.Key Takeaways:Leadership is defined by behavior, not position, and anyone can engage in leadership practices.Effective leaders inspire, train, coach, and manage with intention, aligning their behavior with the needs of their people.Feedback is not just about correction, it starts, maintains, and shapes behavior across all levels of an organization.Systems should be deliberately designed to reinforce valued behavior and prevent coercion.The best crisis management is prevention disguised as daily practice, built on fluency and behavioral principles.Keywords: Leadership in ABA, Organizational Behavior Management, Feedback, Four Hats of Leadership, Performance Diagnostic Checklist, Crisis Management, PCMA, School-Based ABA, Behavior Systems, Paul Gavoni, Applied Behavior AnalysisConnect with Dr. Paulie Gavoni:LinkedIn: Paul GavoniInstagram: @drpaulieglovesThe Crisis in Education Podcast: Listen herePCMA: Professional Crisis Management AssociationSubscribe to the Podcast: Don’t miss more conversations with ABA leaders, innovators, and practitioners. Subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for insights, strategies, and tools to elevate supervision and leadership in ABA. Visit Sidekick Learning for more resources on supervision and professional development.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Beyond Board Games: Redesigning Social Skills Groups in ABA with Lee CourrauIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Lee Courrau, behavior analyst and founder of Launch Kids Academy, to explore why social skills instruction is often treated as an afterthought in ABA—and how we can do better. Lee shares his journey from RBT to curriculum developer, highlighting the missed opportunities he saw in traditional social skills groups and how that inspired him to create structured, play-based approaches that truly engage learners.We talk about practical strategies for designing effective social skills groups, the importance of honoring self-advocacy, and how leaders can better prepare and support technicians beyond the 40-hour training.Key Topics:The Problem with “Wing It” Groups: Lee shares his early experiences with unstructured social skills groups and why they often fail to produce meaningful outcomes.From Afterthought to Impact: The financial, clinical, and staff engagement costs of underdeveloped social skills programming—and the missed opportunities for generalization.Assessment and Readiness: Why a lack of social skills assessments holds back progress, and what indicators suggest a learner is ready to join a group.Creative, Play-Based Approaches: Examples like art, cooking, lemonade stands, and functional skills that create natural opportunities for interaction, independence, and fun.Curriculum Development: How Lee’s structured social skills curriculum balances engagement, structure, and flexibility, with built-in modifications for individual learners.RBT Training and Support: Why the 40-hour model isn’t enough, and how leaders can provide ongoing training, shadowing, and role-play opportunities to build staff confidence in group settings.Key Takeaways:Social skills groups should not be an afterthought—when structured well, they improve learner outcomes, staff engagement, and organizational sustainability.Honoring self-advocacy and embedding choice is critical for building skills that truly generalize beyond the therapy room.Leaders can strengthen staff development by training technicians in group dynamics and providing systematic support beyond initial certification.Keywords: Social Skills Instruction, ABA Curriculum, Group Programming, RBT Training, Staff Development, Behavior Analysis, Generalization, Launch Kids Academy, Lee Courrau, Applied Behavior AnalysisConnect with Lee Courrau:Website: Launch Kids AcademyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leecourrau/Subscribe to the Podcast: Don’t miss more conversations with leaders rethinking how we supervise, train, and deliver services in ABA. Subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for insights, strategies, and practical tools. Visit Sidekick Learning for more resources on supervision, training, and professional development.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

🎙️ Podcast Episode: Rethinking ABA Service Delivery: A BCBA-Led Model with Chris TophamIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Chris Topham, BCBA and co-founder of Celeration ABA, to explore how he’s reshaping the way ABA services are delivered. Chris shares how his journey from fine arts to behavior analysis—and his deep dive into precision teaching—sparked the creation of a BCBA-led service model that prioritizes outcomes, autonomy, and connection.We discuss how Celeration ABA’s one-tier BCBA model impacts learner progress, staff burnout, and family satisfaction, as well as the intentional way Chris is scaling his team for quality over quantity. Chris also introduces The Autism Diagnosis Parent Plan, a free, practical course for caregivers navigating next steps after their child’s diagnosis.🔑 Key Topics:From Fine Arts to ABA: How Chris discovered the field, fell in love with direct work, and built a company alongside his BCBA wife.Precision Teaching as a Foundation: Why continuous measurement and the Standard Celeration Chart transformed his practice and outcomes.One-Tier BCBA Model: What it looks like in action, how it improves traction and reduces burnout, and the trade-offs for scalability.Scaling Outcomes, Not Just Hours: The intentional growth strategy behind Celeration ABA.Parent Support: Inside The Autism Diagnosis Parent Plan—practical templates, scripts, and play strategies for families.💡 Key Takeaways:Precision teaching is a measurement framework that can be layered into any ABA practice to strengthen skill acquisition and retention.A BCBA-led model can accelerate learner progress and reduce burnout, but requires intentional hiring, training, and workload balance.Scaling doesn’t always mean more billable hours—sometimes the most important metric is client outcomes.Caregivers benefit from structured, practical guidance during the often-overwhelming period after an autism diagnosis.🔍 Keywords: Precision Teaching, BCBA-Led ABA, Behavior Analysis, One-Tier Model, Autism Diagnosis, Parent Training, Standard Celeration Chart, Celeration ABA, Instructional Design in ABA, ABA Service ModelsConnect with Chris:Website: celerationaba.comInstagram: @celerationabaLinkedIn: Chris TophamFree Parent Course: The Autism Diagnosis Parent PlanSubscribe to the Podcast: Don’t miss more inspiring conversations about innovation in ABA. Subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for insights, tools, and strategies to elevate your practice. Visit Sidekick Learning for more resources on fieldwork supervision and professional development.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Podcast Episode: Building Ethical, Sustainable ABA Businesses with April and Stephen SmithIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I chat with April and Stephen Smith of 3 Pie Squared, two seasoned ABA entrepreneurs who built, scaled, and exited a seven-figure practice—and now dedicate their time to helping others do the same. Whether you're a BCBA navigating job offers or a founder shaping your company culture, this episode is packed with insights about building workplaces that are ethical, supportive, and sustainable.We dig into what job-seeking BCBAs should look for (and avoid) when interviewing, how caseload and pay structures impact clinical quality, and why training, transparency, and values alignment are the foundation of a thriving team. On the flip side, April and Stephen offer candid advice for ABA business owners trying to scale without burning out.Key Topics:🔍 Red Flags for Job-Seeking BCBAs: From unclear onboarding to inflated caseloads, learn what to ask and how to evaluate whether an organization aligns with your values and needs.💬 Why Communication Matters: How your questions are received during the interview process says a lot about what it’ll be like to work there. Transparency, responsiveness, and psychological safety are everything.📊 The Reality Behind the Numbers: High salaries and billable hour quotas may look great on paper—but how do they actually play out day-to-day? April and Stephen break it down.🧠 Employee vs. Contractor: A no-fluff conversation about the legal and ethical implications of hiring (or being hired) as a contractor in ABA.🧰 Training and Self-Advocacy: For both BCBAs and techs, training isn’t a one-and-done. We talk about the importance of self-assessment, mentorship, and ongoing growth systems.📈 Sustainable Business Systems: What every ABA business owner should have in place—from basic policies to onboarding pathways—and why perfection isn't required, but planning is.🧾 Delegation and Growth: Why burnout often stems from bottlenecks in delegation, and how hiring even a few hours of admin support (or automating key processes) can shift your trajectory.Key Takeaways:A solid interview process sets the tone for the entire professional relationship—don’t ignore the signs.Clinical decisions should never be based solely on what the funder allows. You need systems that support both ethical practice and financial viability.BCBAs need training and mentorship just as much as technicians—and business owners must build that into their systems if they want quality care.Delegation isn’t optional as you grow. Start with small steps and document as you go.Values and vision aren’t just for your mission statement—check in with them regularly and use them to guide decisions when things get tough.Keywords: ABA Business, BCBA Supervision, ABA Hiring Practices, Onboarding in ABA, Contractor vs Employee in ABA, Caseload Management, ABA Ethics, ABA Startups, Self-Advocacy, ABA Systems, ABA Training Programs, April Smith, Stephen Smith, 3 Pie SquaredConnect with April and Stephen Smith 🌐 Website: 3piesquared.com 🎧 Podcast: ABA Business Leaders Podcast 📱 Facebook: ABA Business Leaders 💼 LinkedIn: 3 Pie Squared 📱 TikTok: @3piesquaredSubscribe to the Podcast Don’t miss more candid conversations and actionable insights on supervision, training, and leadership in behavior analysis. Subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast, and visit www.sidekicklearning.net for high-quality supervision curricula and continuing education resources. Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

🎙️ In the Field: The ABA Podcast Episode 26: Supporting Executive Functioning for Staff & Supervisees with Amy TheoboldIn this episode, I chat with Amy Theobold—clinic owner and executive functioning coach—about how executive functioning challenges show up in our staff and supervisees. From lateness and missed deadlines to overwhelm and burnout, Amy walks us through how she shifted from frustration to system-building, and how you can too.We talk about supporting—not rescuing—staff, designing proactive supervision systems, and why skills like planning and task initiation matter just as much for adults as they do for learners.🔑 Key Topics:What executive functioning looks like in the workplaceCoaching vs. punishing: a behavior-analytic approach to performance issuesHow Amy uses executive functioning assessments during onboardingSetting expectations, building systems, and reducing burnoutWhy values and consequences matter more than you think💡 Key Takeaways:Staff performance issues are often skill deficits, not motivation problemsSupport systems help everyone, not just those who ask for helpSupervision should be proactive, compassionate, and clearThe best BCBAs still need support, structure, and mentorship🔍 Keywords: Executive Functioning, ABA Supervision, Performance Support, BCBA Mentorship, Task Initiation, Systems Thinking, Behavior Technician Support📲 Connect with Amy: Instagram: @evolvinganalyst & @collegeadhdcoach🔔 Subscribe: For more episodes on supervision, training, and leadership in ABA, subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast and visit www.sidekicklearning.net for tools and resources.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Podcast Episode: Upgrading Your ABA Intake Interviews: Staff Skills, Systems, and Clinical Decisions with Dr. Kristen ByraIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Kristen Byra, seasoned clinician and founder of Upskill ABA, to dig into one of the most critical—and often overlooked—components of clinical practice: the intake assessment. Kristen shares how standardizing this process through decision models can improve both clinical outcomes and staff performance, while still honoring clinical judgment and caregiver input.We explore how decision models support newer and experienced BCBAs alike, how they can reduce burnout by eliminating guesswork, and how they build stronger, more meaningful caregiver interviews that go beyond surface-level questions.Key Topics:What Makes a Quality Intake Assessment: Kristen shares what’s often missing from our assessments and how to design interviews that lead to better treatment plans and more meaningful caregiver involvement.Decision Models 101: What they are, how they differ from decision trees, and how they can support—but not replace—clinical judgment.Bridging Research and Practice: We talk through the challenges BCBAs face in accessing and applying literature, and how tools like decision models bring curated resources and practical guides to the front lines of care.Training Through Tools: Kristen explains how decision models double as a training tool for newer BCBAs by prompting deeper thinking and standardizing high-quality practices.Caregiver Interviews with Purpose: From asking the right questions to respecting caregiver time and building rapport, we dive into strategies to gather accurate, actionable data that’s aligned with caregiver priorities.Scope, Fit, and Clinical Judgment: We discuss how assessments can help determine organizational fit, when to refer out, and how to avoid unintentionally overpromising services.Key Takeaways:Great assessments go beyond checklists. They require intentional questions, empathy, and a clear link to treatment planning.Decision models can reduce variability across assessors and provide a knowledge base that supports training and quality improvement.Clinical judgment is enhanced—not replaced—by well-designed tools that prompt deeper consideration and offer actionable next steps.BCBAs must balance standardization and flexibility while prioritizing caregiver input and values.Refusing services when there’s a misalignment isn’t just okay—it’s ethical. But how we do it matters.Keywords: ABA Intake Assessment, Clinical Decision Model, Supervision, ABA Tools, Caregiver Interview, Standardized Assessment, ABA Treatment Planning, Social Validity, Kristen Byra, Upskill ABA, Applied Behavior AnalysisConnect with Kristen:Website: www.upskillaba.comLinkedIn: Kristen ByraBeta Access: Interested in beta testing the Intake Interview Decision Model? Visit her site or connect via LinkedIn to participate.Subscribe to the Podcast: Don’t forget to subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for more insights and interviews with experts in behavior analysis. Visit www.sidekicklearning.net for more resources on fieldwork supervision and continuing education opportunities!Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

🎙️ “In the Field” – Group Supervision Part 2 Hosted by Allyson Wharam🎧 Episode Overview: In this follow-up episode, Allyson Wharam dives into how to structure group supervision so it’s not just compliant—but meaningful and competency-building. She shares practical frameworks, specific activities, and answers listener questions about logistics, coordination, and group dynamics.Instructional Strategies that Work in Group Supervision:Peer Presentations Let trainees lead on focused subtopics—teaching builds fluency and confidence.Case Consultation vs. Case Studies Use real cases for collaborative problem-solving or walk through crafted scenarios to guide clinical reasoning.Guided Technical Skill Practice Bring in BST to teach practical skills like data collection, graphing, shaping, and writing measurable goals.Big-Picture Discussions Use prompts that push trainees from definitions into decision-making and judgment.Ethical Dilemmas Practice navigating tricky ethical situations as a group—great for building perspective-taking and problem-solving.Research Reviews & Resource Shares Have trainees bring articles, tools, or protocols and discuss how they’d apply them.Managing Documentation & Logistics:Tracking Group Supervision Keep clear records. The BCBA must document the group session properly for each trainee.Multiple Supervisors? Coordinate When more than one BCBA is involved, align expectations ahead of time to avoid miscommunication or mixed messages.Use Shared Tools Supervision platforms, Slack, or Teams can centralize notes, tasks, and follow-ups for everyone involved.💬 Listener Q&A Highlights:“Does the BCBA running group supervision need to be on the trainee’s contract?” Yes—if they’re providing supervision, they need to be formally on the contract.“How do you follow up on competencies introduced in group?” Introduce and model in group, then individual sessions are for practicing and assessing.“How do you manage dominating voices or people who are always late?” Set norms early, reinforce participation expectations, and follow up individually as needed.“How often should group supervision include client-specific content?” It should be part of the mix—but vary sessions to include both client-specific and general skill development.💡 Practical Takeaways:Repeatable Structures Make It Sustainable Use a rotating menu of activities—like skill practice, discussions, or presentations—to stay organized and efficient.Use Group to Build, Individual to Apply Think of group sessions as the classroom and individual sessions as the lab.Clear Communication Is Key Especially when multiple supervisors are involved, make collaboration and documentation a priority.Set the Tone Early Group dynamics matter—co-create norms and revisit them when needed.🔗 Want to Submit a Question? Head to www.sidekicklearning.net/podcast to submit scenarios, dilemmas, or questions about supervision.📤 Share & Subscribe: If this helped you rethink your approach to group supervision, share it with your team. And make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next!Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

🎙️ Podcast Summary: “In the Field” – Group Supervision Part 1 Hosted by Allyson Wharram🎧 Episode Overview: In this solo episode, Alison War introduces the first part of a two-part series on group supervision in BCBA fieldwork, based on her workshop at the National APBA Convention. She covers group supervision’s definition, benefits, challenges, and strategies.🧩 What is Group Supervision?A supervised meeting with up to 10 trainees, regardless of supervisors present.Must be interactive, not passive or individual supervision done in a group.Regulatory limits: max 50% of monthly supervision hours in group; at least 50% individual.🌟 Why Use Group Supervision?Reduces isolation, especially for remote or school-based trainees.Builds peer networks that extend beyond supervision.Promotes professional growth through interpersonal skills and collaborative problem-solving.Offers exposure to diverse client cases for generalization.Enables development of giving and receiving peer feedback.🚧 Common Barriers & Solutions:Trainee VariabilityDiverse backgrounds and skill levels.Solutions: align content, pair experienced with new trainees, provide pre-session materials.Individualized FeedbackDifficult in group settings.Use group time for general feedback; save detailed feedback for individual sessions.Ensuring Equal EngagementRisk of passive participation.Use interactive tools (Pear Deck, Nearpod), cold calling, wait time, and limit groups to 7–8 trainees.Supervisor Planning TimeRequires intentional planning.Use templates, send agendas early, group content monthly, and use structured curricula.🛠️ Tips for Effective Group SupervisionDevelop a repeatable session framework.Combine low-prep and high-impact activities like trainee presentations.Use practical resources: templates, guides, and skill-practice tools.📣 Listener Questions! Alison invites listeners to submit questions or scenarios on supervision, leadership, or training for future episodes.📌 Coming Next: Part 2 Allyson will cover session structure, activities, and answer listener questions.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Episode Description In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I talk with Rose Griffin, founder of ABA Speech and one of fewer than 500 professionals dually certified as a speech-language pathologist (SLP) and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Rose shares how her interdisciplinary experience has shaped her approach to supporting autistic learners and building more collaborative teams across clinical and educational settings.We discuss the misconceptions that often divide SLPs and BCBAs, explore overlapping scopes of practice, and offer concrete strategies to promote ethical, respectful, and effective collaboration. Drawing from research, including Brodhead’s (2015) seminal article on interdisciplinary relationships, we dig into what it means to be a partner, not just a provider.Key TopicsRose’s path to dual certification and the founding of ABA SpeechScope of practice vs. scope of competence and why that nuance mattersMisconceptions and mistrust between SLPs and BCBAs, and where they come fromBrodhead’s framework for navigating non-behavioral recommendationsPractical phrases and strategies to support collaborative, non-combative dialogueHow clinic culture and training structures can foster true interdisciplinary partnershipKey TakeawaysInterdisciplinary collaboration isn’t optional. It’s essential to learner outcomes.BCBAs and SLPs both bring unique expertise to communication interventions, and understanding scope is key to ethical practice.Curious, nonjudgmental dialogue (“Tell me more about that”) opens the door to collaboration, even in tense situations.Building collaborative systems starts with culture: onboarding, supervision, and team dynamics all matter.We don’t have to know everything, but we do have to know when to ask.Referenced Resource Brodhead, M. T. (2015). Maintaining professional relationships in an interdisciplinary setting: Strategies for navigating nonbehavioral treatment recommendations for individuals with autism. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 8(1), 70–78. Read hereKeywords BCBA and SLP Collaboration, AAC, Gestalt Language Processing, Functional Communication Training, Scope of Practice, Interdisciplinary Teams, Behavior Analysis, Rose Griffin, ABA SpeechConnect with Rose and ABA Speech 🌐 Website: www.abaspeech.org 📸 Instagram: @abaspeechbyrose 📧 Email: [email protected] 🔗 LinkedIn: Rose GriffinSubscribe to the Podcast For more conversations about evidence-based practice, ethical supervision, and leadership in behavior analysis, subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast. Visit Sidekick Learning for free tools, CEUs, and supervision resources.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

🎙️ In This Episode of Supervision StoriesIn the kickoff episode of our Supervision Stories series, I chat with Lindsay Milnes, a newly certified BCBA who took a creative, values-driven approach to her fieldwork experience. Lindsay shares how she turned challenges—like low client hours and limited access to unrestricted activities—into opportunities to apply ABA to her own life and build confidence along the way.We talk about how she found the right-fit supervisor, used self-management and ACT strategies during her training, and eventually launched a mentorship group to support other trainees exploring health and wellness within behavior analysis.If you're a trainee feeling stuck or a supervisor looking to better support your students’ growth, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and actionable strategies.🔑 Key Topics:Finding a supervisor aligned with your values and interestsUsing self-management skillsCreative ways to gain unrestricted hoursApplying ABA to personal goals like water intake and exerciseFilling supervision gaps with community and collaborationLaunching a mentorship group for health-focused trainees💡 Key Takeaways:You don’t have to wait for ideal conditions—create your own opportunities within supervision.Self-management isn’t just for clients; using ABA tools on yourself builds both skills and confidence.Finding a supervisor you genuinely connect with can change the trajectory of your training experience.Embedding your passions into supervision can lead to meaningful, career-shaping work.📬 Connect with Lindsay:Instagram: @behavioral_inspirationsWebsite: https://www.lindsaybehaviourconsulting.com/resourcesforabaprofessionalsFree Resource: Healthy Habits TrackerDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I chat with Mellanie Page, CEO of The ABA Collective and Executive VP of Operations at ABS Kids. Mellanie brings a rare blend of clinical and operational insight to the world of Organizational Behavior Management (OBM), offering a practical and accessible approach to making meaningful change from within ABA organizations.Key Topics:From Clinical to Operational Leadership: Mellanie shares how her unexpected transition into operations led her to pursue an MBA and, ultimately, build learning programs that bridge the gap between business strategy and clinical excellence.What is OBM, Really? We break down the broad umbrella of OBM—what it is, how it differs from traditional ABA, and the subspecialties within it, such as performance management, safety, and instructional design.Practical OBM in Action: Mellanie walks us through her “Practical OBM” framework, designed to help everyday BCBAs apply OBM in their current roles. Learn how pinpointing high-impact behaviors and aligning systems can lead to powerful organizational change.Job Crafting and Burnout Recovery: Discover how OBM skills can help you reshape your current role to align better with your values, reduce burnout, and increase job satisfaction—without needing a new job title.Bridging the Science with Systems Thinking: From motivational interviewing to change management, Mellanie shares how she integrates soft skills with hard data to build sustainable, values-aligned systems of improvement.Getting Buy-In as a Practitioner: Learn how to communicate your ideas in a way that resonates with leadership, by framing them around organizational values, ROI, and layered system alignment.Key Takeaways:You don’t need to wait for permission to start using OBM—change can start within your own caseload or team.OBM isn’t about titles or certifications; it’s about building skills that create meaningful, scalable impact.The most effective organizational change starts with small, clearly defined, high-impact behaviors.Understanding stakeholder values and system alignment is critical to making sustainable improvements.OBM and instructional design are deeply aligned in their focus on performance, outcomes, and practical implementation.Connect with Mellanie and The ABA Collective:Website: https://www.theabacollective.com/LinkedIn: Mellanie PageInstagram: @theabacollectiveUpcoming Events:OBM Practitioner Program: 12-week cohort-based experience for designing and implementing real OBM projects with group coaching and support.Digital Clinician: A program for clinicians interested in creating digital products and leveraging online business models to scale their impact.Business of ABA Conference: A virtual event happening in September focused on operations, strategy, and growing with quality in mind.Free CEUs: Monthly workshops on practical applications of OBM and ABA in real-world settings.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, host Allyson Wharam continues her conversation with Liz Matthews, CEO of EMG Consulting. After exploring burnout and personal evolution in Part 1, this episode dives into what that evolution looks like in practice—through hiring, supervision, equity, and organizational design.Liz shares how she’s built a workplace that prioritizes flexibility without sacrificing quality, and how leadership grounded in values, boundaries, and honest conversations has helped EMG become one of Virginia’s Best Employers.💬 Key Topics:Intentional Hiring and Interview Design: How Liz’s team uses structured, values-driven interviews to identify candidates who align with the culture—and why she’s willing to say no, even to highly qualified applicants.Flexible Systems with Accountability: How EMG balances autonomy and support, and why quality and flexibility aren’t mutually exclusive.Rethinking Pay and Progression: The challenges of building equitable compensation in a field where negotiation advantages are uneven.The Role of Supervision: Why EMG’s approach is rooted in shared values, honest feedback, and slowing down the process to focus on long-term fit and clinical integrity.Knowing When It’s Not a Fit: Candid stories about supporting trainees, setting boundaries, and recognizing when behavior analysis may not be the right path for someone.Practice Drives Policy: How EMG constantly evolves internal systems based on reflection, feedback, and real-world application—not just what looks good on paper.✨ Key Takeaways:Flexibility without clarity leads to confusion. Clarity without flexibility leads to burnout. EMG’s model tries to avoid both.Trainees and staff are selected with care, not just credentials. Culture fit and internal motivation matter.You don’t need to scale fast to be successful. You need to scale intentionally.Real leadership means making hard calls—including downsizing when growth isn’t values-aligned.“Practice drives policy” is more than a phrase—it’s a guiding principle that allows the organization to evolve without losing its foundation.📣 Connect with Liz:Instagram: @emg_consultingFacebook: EMG ConsultingLinkedIn: Elizabeth Matthews📚 Book Mentioned: Inclusion on Purpose by Ruchika Tulshyan👂 Listen to Part 1:Didn’t catch the first half of this conversation? Be sure to listen to Part 1, where Liz shares her story of burnout, evolution, and reconnecting with purpose.🎧 Subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast and explore more resources at SidekickLearning.net.#BCBA #ABA #LeadershipInABA #Supervision #ABABusiness #InTheFieldPodcast #SidekickLearning #WomenInLeadership #ValuesDrivenWork #OrganizationalCultureDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, host Allyson Wharam sits down with Liz Matthews, CEO and founder of EMG Consulting, for a raw, honest conversation about burnout, identity, and what it really means to do values-driven work in behavior analysis. From being one of the first dozen BCBAs® in Virginia to navigating insurance reform, motherhood, and personal evolution, Liz shares how reconnecting with her values—and a supportive community—helped her reshape not just her mindset, but her entire business model.This is Part 1 of a two-part series that offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to stay in this field and stay well.💬 Key Topics:The Early Days of ABA in Virginia: What it was like to be one of the first BCBAs® in the state, and how the field exploded post-insurance reformBurnout and Identity: Liz’s personal story of burnout while navigating motherhood, military spouse life, and professional overwhelmThe Power of Community: How connecting with values-aligned behavior analysts helped her rediscover meaning in her workBusiness Redesign from the Ground Up: The evolution of EMG Consulting—why Liz moved away from traditional models and toward individualized, flexible, equity-informed systemsDoing Better, Even When It’s Hard: Liz reflects on past practices, the importance of consent and compassionate care, and the vulnerability of realizing "we didn’t always get it right"Equity, Flexibility, and Women in Leadership: A candid conversation about parenting, caregiving, and what it means to lead from a place of reflection and purpose✨ Key Takeaways:Burnout doesn’t always look like collapse—it can look like autopilot. And it often demands a deeper look at your values.Systems can be built using the science of behavior—Liz shares how she uses assessment, feedback, and qualitative data to design a flexible, individualized workplace.Compassionate, affirming care isn’t a departure from ABA—it’s an evolved application of it.Women make up the majority of the field but are still underrepresented in leadership. That gap matters.📌 Don’t Miss:➡ Liz’s perspective on why “doing better” starts with acknowledging harm ➡ Her innovative approach to individualized job roles and benefits ➡ A heartfelt story of crying on stage at APBA—and the healing power of shared experience👀 What’s Next:In Part 2, we go even deeper: what supervision looks like at EMG, how Liz hires and retains high-quality team members, and the concrete systems she’s built that earned her company a Best Employer title in Virginia.📣 Connect with Liz:EMG Consulting: https://www.emgaba.com/LinkedIn: Elizabeth Matthews https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmmatthews/💡 Enjoyed this episode?Share it with a colleague, follow the show, or leave a review—this is how we keep real conversations like this going.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Episode Title: Expanding BCBA® Careers: Supporting Diverse Practice Paths in ABA with Nicole ParksHost: Allyson Wharam, Creator of Sidekick LearningGuest: Nicole Parks, Chief Visionary Officer at Rooted ConsultationIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, host Allyson Wharam sits down with Nicole Parks, Chief Visionary Officer at Rooted Consultation, to challenge the status quo of applied behavior analysis. Together, they explore how BCBA®s can move beyond traditional autism therapy roles and pursue fulfilling careers in subspecialty areas of ABA. Nicole shares her journey across forensic systems, adult mental health, and consulting—offering a roadmap for behavior analysts ready to carve their own path.🔑 Key Topics:Breaking the Mold: Nicole shares her early career in forensics and mental health, and what drew her back to non-traditional ABA work after time in autism therapy.The Subspecialty Framework: A 3-part plan for diversifying ABA practice—centered around supervision, learning opportunities, and advocating for job creation.Funding vs. Fulfillment: A candid discussion about compensation, burnout, and why many BCBA®s stay in autism therapy even when their heart lies elsewhere.Real-World Scope: Why understanding your scope of competence—and how to expand it—is essential in navigating subspecialty roles.The Undercurrent: Nicole’s membership program designed to support and inspire ABA professionals exploring diverse practice areas.💡 Key Takeaways:BCBA®s are not limited to autism therapy—our science has far-reaching applications across healthcare, education, justice, animal behavior, and more.Exposure to diverse practice areas, ethical supervision, and ongoing mentorship are critical for growing the next generation of well-rounded behavior analysts.A major barrier to practice diversification is visibility—both in job listings and in the way we teach and talk about ABA.When one behavior analyst breaks into a new space, we all benefit—especially when we bring others along with us.Connect with Nicole Parks and Rooted Consultation:Website: Rooted ConsultationThe Undercurrent: Continuing Education Membership for Subspecialty AreasIgnis Path: Remote Supervision in Subspecialty AreasLinkedIn: Nicole ParksInstagram: thembabcba | @RootedConsultationSubscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast:Don’t miss future episodes exploring innovation in supervision, training, and practice. Subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast and explore more resources for BCBA®s and ABA businesses at Sidekick Learning.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Episode SummaryIn this episode, we dive into the significant updates from the 5th Edition Task List to the 6th Edition Test Content Outline (TCO) for the BCBA exam. We discuss what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and how these updates impact both trainees and supervisors in the field of ABA.Whether you're preparing for the exam or supporting trainees, this episode will help clarify key shifts, including new terminology, changes in task weighting, and the growing emphasis on cultural responsiveness, ethical considerations, and applied assessment practices.Key Topics Discussed✅ Task List → Test Content Outline (TCO): Understanding the name change and its implications✅ Structural Updates: Sections are now called Domains (A-I) with minor category refinements✅ Exam Weighting Adjustments: Changes in emphasis on key areas, including ethics, behavior assessment, and supervision✅ New & Expanded Content Areas:Ethical & Professional Issues: More focus on cultural humility, bias, and professional risksConcepts & Principles: Additions like behavioral momentum, multiple control in verbal behavior, and matching lawAssessment & Measurement: Emphasizing environmental constraints and procedural integritySupervision & Management: Explicit focus on promoting equity and effective supervision✅ How These Changes Affect Supervisors & Trainees: Practical strategies for integrating these updates into training and study plansResources Mentioned📌 Sidekick Learning’s 6th Edition Crosswalk – Download the breakdown of changes at www.sidekicklearning.net📌 February 2022 BACB Newsletter – Official source announcing these updates📌 Sidekick Learning’s Supervision Curriculum & Mock Exams – Designed to align with the new TCODisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I chat with Patrick Faga, behavior scientist and co-founder of FirstWork, about how technology is transforming discrete trial training (DTT) and behavior analysis. Patrick shares how his experiences as a behavior technician inspired the creation of FirstWork, a direct lesson delivery platform designed to simplify DTT while maintaining its core flexibility and personalization.Key Topics:What is FirstWork? Patrick explains how FirstWork streamlines DTT by digitizing lesson delivery, eliminating the need for physical flashcards, and integrating reinforcement systems within a tablet-based platform.Balancing Tech and Human Connection: Patrick discusses how technology like FirstWork enhances the teacher or technician’s ability to connect with learners by removing time-consuming manual tasks.Affordances and Constraints of Technology: Learn about the unique advantages FirstWork offers, such as real-time feedback and customizable programs, as well as thoughtful consideration of its limitations and learner fit.Improving DTT Outcomes: How FirstWork leverages concept formation, critical and variable features, and automated data collection to promote generalization and support goal achievement.Impact on Teams and Organizations: Patrick dives into how FirstWork benefits ABA teams by saving time, reducing costs, and improving the consistency of lesson delivery, making it a game-changer for both practitioners and learners.Key Takeaways:Technology doesn’t replace teachers or technicians—it enhances their ability to focus on the learner by automating repetitive tasks.DTT, often misunderstood as overly rigid, becomes more dynamic and engaging when integrated with tools like FirstWork.FirstWork’s customizable features ensure lessons are tailored to each learner, while the platform's reinforcement system motivates participation and strengthens autonomy.Keywords: Discrete Trial Training, ABA, Behavior Analysis, Technology in ABA, DTT Platforms, Reinforcement Systems, Behavior Technician Tools, Concept Formation, Generalization, Patrick Faga, FirstWorkConnect with Patrick and FirstWork:Website: FirstWorkEmail: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firstworkapp/Patrick Faga LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickfagaInstagram: @firstworkappSubscribe to the Podcast: Don’t miss more inspiring conversations about innovation in ABA. Subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for insights, tools, and strategies to elevate your practice. Visit Sidekick Learning for more resources on fieldwork supervision and professional development.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Matt Harrington, founder of the Behaviorist Book Club, to explore the essential role of research literacy in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Mathew shares his journey from clinical work to developing resources that help behavior analysts access and apply research effectively. He introduces practical frameworks, like his "Key Places Framework," designed to make research more accessible and actionable for busy practitioners.Key Topics:The Research-to-Practice Gap: Matt discusses the challenges behavior analysts face in keeping up with rapidly evolving research and how this gap impacts clinical quality.Key Places Framework: An innovative approach for quickly navigating and extracting relevant information from research articles, enabling clinicians to save time and make informed decisions.Overcoming Barriers to Research Access: Practical tips for accessing essential ABA journals, handling paywalls, and making time for continued learning.Importance of Research Literacy in Supervision: Why developing research literacy is crucial for new clinicians and how supervisors can support this skill.Bootcamps and Courses: Insights into Matt's educational programs at the Behaviorist Book Club, including his "Pathways" bootcamp for intensive learning in severe behavior reduction.Key Takeaways:Accessing and applying ABA research doesn’t have to be daunting. Matt's frameworks empower clinicians to efficiently find and use research, fostering better clinical outcomes.Research literacy is an essential skill for behavior analysts, not only to improve intervention efficacy but also to build confidence in clinical decision-making.Supervisors play a crucial role in developing research literacy and critical thinking skills in new behavior analysts, preparing them for long-term success in the field.Keywords: ABA, Behavior Analysis, Research Literacy, Behaviorist Book Club, Key Places Framework, Clinical Quality, Research-to-Practice Gap, Severe Behavior Reduction, ABA SupervisionConnect with Matt:Website: www.behavioristbookclub.comFree Resource: Solving Clinical Challenges with Research - Free CEU course covering the Key Places Framework and research finding techniques.Facebook: ABA CafeSubscribe to the Podcast: Don’t forget to subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for more insights and interviews with experts in behavior analysis. Visit www.sidekicklearning.net for more resources on fieldwork supervision and continuing education opportunities!Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Navigating School-Based ABA and Supervision with Jennifer SpilewskiIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I’m joined by Jennifer Spilewski, a BCBA with over 20 years of experience working in school-based settings. Jennifer shares her unique journey from being a special education teacher to becoming a district-level BCBA, offering valuable insights into how behavior analysts can navigate the school environment while providing effective supervision.Key Topics:Transitioning to School-Based ABA: Jennifer’s journey from special education to ABA, and how her experiences shaped her role as a BCBA in schools.Supervision in Schools: The challenges and opportunities in providing supervision to those working in schools, from teachers to paraprofessionals, and how supervisors can offer meaningful support.Collaboration with Teachers: Why building strong relationships with teachers and other staff is essential for successful behavior intervention and data collection.Adapting ABA Practices in Schools: How to apply ABA principles like reinforcement, data collection, and behavior intervention planning in varied school settings, including inclusion and resource classrooms.Unrestricted Activities in School Settings: Creative strategies for accruing fieldwork hours in school environments, such as working with PBIS systems and teaching behavior analytic principles to staff.Key Takeaways:School-based BCBAs often work with adults (teachers, paraprofessionals) more than directly with students. Jennifer highlights the importance of teaching others how to implement behavior analytic strategies.Flexibility and creativity are crucial for adapting ABA principles to different school settings, such as modifying reinforcement systems for different age groups or classroom environments.Building relationships with school staff is critical for successful behavior intervention and ensuring buy-in from all stakeholders.The transition from being a classroom teacher to a school-based BCBA requires adjusting to working across multiple schools and handling more complex layers of collaboration and administration.Keywords: School-Based ABA, Behavior Analysis, Supervision, Teacher Training, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Data Collection, Special Education, Behavior Plans, Fieldwork Supervision, Jennifer SpilewskiConnect with Jennifer:website: www.sidekicklearning.netemail: [email protected] Event: Jennifer will be presenting a live CEU event on October 28, 2024, titled “Consult, Collaborate, Empower: Tools for School-Based Coaching.” The event will focus on practical tools for BCBAs working in school settings, and all proceeds will support disaster relief efforts. Learn more and register here.Subscribe to the Podcast: Don’t forget to subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for more expert insights and innovative practices in ABA supervision. Visit Sidekick Learning for more resources on fieldwork supervision and continuing education opportunities.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Podcast Episode: Collaboration in School-Based ABA with Bailey PayneIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Bailey Payne, a BCBA and educator with vast experience in school-based ABA. We dive into how she transitioned from clinical work to focusing on supporting schools and teachers through behavior analytic strategies. Bailey also shares insights from her recently published book, which focuses on making ABA principles accessible to teachers and parents.Key Topics:Transitioning to School-Based ABA: Bailey shares her experience shifting from clinical practice to working in schools and the importance of maintaining scope of competence.Challenges in Schools: We discuss how privacy laws, funding issues, and limited resources impact the ability to implement ABA strategies in public schools.Building Rapport: Bailey emphasizes the importance of building relationships and gaining teacher buy-in when implementing ABA principles in classrooms.Collaborative Approaches: Why effective collaboration between BCBAs and teachers is crucial, and how valuing each other’s expertise can lead to better outcomes for students.ABA Dissemination: Bailey’s passion for making ABA principles accessible, her approach to disseminating ABA through training and her book, and how her experiences as a single mom and educator influenced her work.Key Takeaways:School-based ABA requires flexibility, humility, and the ability to navigate a complex educational ecosystem.Collaboration with teachers is key, and understanding the cultural and practical realities of the classroom is essential for success.Data collection and practical strategies need to be digestible and accessible for parents and teachers, which is a major focus of Bailey’s new book.Keywords: School-Based ABA, Behavior Analysis, Collaboration, Teacher Training, Special Education, Public Schools, Data Collection, Bailey Payne, Applied Behavior Analysis, Scope of Competence, ABA DisseminationConnect with Bailey:Facebook: Behavior Breakthrough with Bailey PayneInstagram: @behavior_breakthroughWebsite: www.baileypayne.comBook: Behavior Breakthrough available now for pre-order!Subscribe to the Podcast: Don’t forget to subscribe to In the Field: The ABA Podcast for more insights and interviews with experts in behavior analysis. Visit www.sidekicklearning.net for more resources on fieldwork supervision and continuing education opportunities!Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Episode Summary:In this episode, Allyson speaks with Nicole Shallow, a behavior analyst and sleep consultant based in Vancouver, Canada. Nicole shares her journey into the world of behavioral sleep consulting and the critical role of understanding the underlying physiological factors affecting sleep. They explore how behavior analysts can expand their scope to address sleep issues, how to stay within one's scope of competence, and why collaboration with medical professionals is essential.Nicole provides valuable insights into the assessment process, the connection between sleep and other issues like gastrointestinal problems, and the importance of building strong, individualized sleep plans for clients.Key Topics Discussed:Nicole’s journey into sleep consulting and behavior analysis, starting as a Behavior Interventionist and specializing in sleep through mentorship.How sleep is often a symptom of broader physiological or environmental issues, such as gastrointestinal problems or stress.The importance of understanding sleep physiology and when to refer to medical professionals.Behavioral strategies for addressing common sleep issues and building individualized sleep interventions.Tips for behavior analysts wanting to expand their scope of competence into new areas, such as sleep.Collaboration with parents and other professionals to ensure a holistic approach to sleep interventions.The need for more research in the field of behavior analysis on sleep, given the current limitations of small sample sizes.How Nicole integrates ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) principles and soft skills when supporting families through sleep challenges.Actionable Step:For practitioners interested in expanding their skills into sleep consulting, start by reviewing behavioral sleep medicine research and completing a relevant CEU. Nicole suggests getting mentorship in sleep consulting to ensure competency in addressing more complex sleep issues.Resources Mentioned:Nicole Shallow - Your Behavior GalHanley’s Sleep Assessment ToolBehavior Live (for CEs related to sleep)LinkedIn (for networking and mentorship opportunities)Connect with Nicole:Instagram: @yourbehaviorgalWebsite: Your Behavior GalTakeaways for Listeners:Building a successful sleep intervention requires understanding not only behavioral factors but also physiological and environmental components.Collaboration with parents and other professionals is essential to creating sleep plans that work for each family.Behavior analysts can broaden their scope and contribute to more comprehensive care by specializing in areas like sleep.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Guest: Dominique Shorter Taylor, BCBA, Founder of Dom the BCBA Mom and Shorter-Taylor Behavior ConsultingActionable Steps Based on the Episode:For Behavior Analysts:Identify Personal Biases: Reflect on your own biases and how they might affect your work with clients. Make a habit of self-assessment to ensure you’re providing culturally responsive care.Engage with Families: Ask families about their values, preferences, and how they feel about the diagnosis. Use this information to tailor interventions that are meaningful and feasible for them.Provide Compassionate Supervision: Approach your supervisees with the same empathy and support you offer your clients. Create a supportive learning environment that encourages growth and development.Balance Work and Family: Set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Prioritize activities that rejuvenate you and communicate your needs to your employer and family.For Those Interested in Dissemination:Choose the Right Platform: Identify a dissemination channel that aligns with your strengths and interests, whether it’s YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, writing, or podcasting.Create Consumable Content: Ensure your content is easily understandable and accessible to your target audience. Use everyday language and relatable examples to explain ABA concepts.Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments and feedback from your audience. Positive reinforcement from viewers can motivate you to continue sharing valuable content.Be Authentic: Share your unique perspective and experiences. Authenticity resonates with people and can make your dissemination efforts more impactful.Resources Mentioned:Fong, E. H., Catagnus, R. M., Brodhead, M. T., Quigley, S., & Field, S. (2016). Developing the cultural awareness skills of behavior analysts. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 9(1), 84–94. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-016-0111-6Autism on the Seas: autismontheseas.comContact Information:YouTube: Dom the BCBA MomTikTok: Dom the BCBA MomInstagram: Dom the BCBA MomClosing Thought: Dominique encourages behavior analysts to embrace cultural responsiveness, prioritize family and self-care, and find authentic ways to disseminate ABA knowledge. By doing so, we can make ABA more accessible and impactful for the diverse communities we serve.Thank You Note: Thank you for listening to In the Field, the ABA Podcast. Visit sidekicklearning.net for more resources and continuing education opportunities. Please consider subscribing and sharing the podcast to help empower more professionals in the ABA community. Join us next week for more insights on fostering quality supervision in ABA.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Guest:Angie Pickering is the founder of Tracker!, a tool designed to simplify supervision and documentation for ABA professionals. Angie's experience with supervision led her to create Tracker, aiming to streamline the documentation process and support both trainees and supervisors in meeting compliance requirements effectively.Key Takeaways:Supervision Requirements:Minimum of 20 hours and maximum of 130 hours per month.At least four contacts per month, with one observation with a client.5% of total hours must be supervised.50% of supervised hours must be one-on-one, no more than 50% in group settings, and group settings cannot exceed 10 people.Minimum of 60% of hours must be unrestricted.Concentrated Supervision:Requires six contacts per month.10% of total hours must be supervised.Compliance and Best Practices:Tracker's built-in compliance monitor helps ensure all requirements are met.Daily documentation is important to avoid drift.UDS, monthly, and final verification forms should be stored securely for seven years.Unrestricted vs. Restricted Hours:Unrestricted hours include activities that BCBAs would do, such as assessments and designing interventions.Restricted hours are more direct client implementation of plans.Importance of accruing unrestricted hours throughout the supervision period to be well-prepared for the BCBA role.Advocacy and Communication:Trainees should feel empowered to communicate their needs and ensure they're getting comprehensive supervision.Organizations benefit from investing in their trainees and creating intentional supervision experiences.Tips for Trainees and Supervisors:Trainees should ask about supervision structures during job interviews.Supervisors should be clear on what counts as restricted and unrestricted hours.Regularly reviewing and auditing activities can help maintain compliance and focus on necessary skills.Favorite Part of Supervising:Angie enjoys seeing trainees gain confidence and become well-prepared for their BCBA roles.Advice to New Supervisor Angie:Enjoy the journey, practice good self-care, and embrace the learning process.Connect with Tracker:Website: fieldworktracker.comInstagram: studynotesaba_TrackerEmail: [email protected] you for listening to In the Field, the ABA Podcast. Visit sidekicklearning.net for more resources and continuing education opportunities. Please consider subscribing and sharing the podcast to help empower more professionals in the ABA community. Join us next week for more insights on fostering quality supervision in ABA.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Guest Introduction: Courtney Domingue is the founder of Success Shaping and a BCBA supervisor. Success Shaping offers remote supervision, consulting supervision, and continuing education for BCBAs and trainees. Courtney emphasizes a well-rounded, flexible approach to ABA supervision.Key Takeaways:Flexible Supervision ApproachImportance of Multiple PerspectivesPsychological SafetyContinuous LearningGrassroots and Systemic ChangeIncremental ChangeConnect with CourtneySuccess Shaping: successshaping.comInstagram: Success ShapingFacebook: Success ShapingResourcesDownload the guide from Success ShapingPractical Tips for Supervisors:Be Present: Dedicate focused, undistracted time to your trainees, valuing their growth as much as your own professional tasks.Seek Feedback: Regularly ask for and incorporate feedback from trainees to improve your supervision practices.Continuous Learning: Engage in professional development outside of your comfort zone to stay updated and empathize with the learning experiences of your trainees.Celebrate Incremental Changes: Recognize and celebrate small victories and progress in supervision, both in your trainees' growth and your own professional development.Practical Tips for Trainees:Self-Reflection: Clarify your goals and what you seek in a supervision experience before choosing a supervisor.Seek Recommendations: Connect with others in the field and ask for recommendations or advice on finding quality supervision.Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask potential supervisors about their philosophy, teaching style, and expectations to ensure a good fit.Leverage Networks: Use social media and professional networks to seek out additional learning opportunities and mentorship outside of your immediate supervision relationship.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Annie McLaughlin is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and an Individualized Education Program (IEP) advocate. She supports other BCBAs in transitioning into the realm of IEP advocacy.In this episode, we cover:Career Journey: Annie's path from special education teacher to BCBA and IEP advocate, emphasizing the diverse experiences that shaped her expertise.Effective Support: Importance of BCBAs understanding the educational system to better support parents in IEP meetings.Training Program: Development of the "Pivot into IEP Advocacy" program to educate BCBAs and related service providers on special education advocacy.Foundational Skills: Emphasis on collaboration, understanding special education literature, and continuous professional development as crucial skills for BCBAs.Practical Advice: Tips for BCBAs attending IEP meetings, such as understanding parents' needs, using educational language, and offering practical solutions.Resources Mentioned:Burke and Goldman (2016) study on the five stages of IEP advocacyPivot into IEP Advocacy program: IEPadvocacytraining.comContact Information:Instagram: IEP Advocate AnnieWebsite: IEPadvocacytraining.comPractical Tips for BCBAs:Understand parents' needs and support them by amplifying their voice during IEP meetings.Use educational language to communicate effectively in school settings.Learn regional and federal special education acronyms and terminologies.Follow your curiosity and passion to explore growth opportunities within and outside your organization.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Welcome back to "In the Field"! In this episode, I'm super excited to chat with Dr. Katie Garza and Dr. Becky Eldridge. We're diving into their article, "Some Tools for Carrying Out a Proposed Process for Supervising Experience Hours for Aspiring Board Certified Behavior Analysts," published in Behavior Analysis in Practice.Here’s the scoop on what we chat about in this episode:Common barriers to effective supervision and the reality that we are faced with as supervisorsKey tools that you can put into practice, such as job models and professional development planningActionable steps and resources from their article that supervisors can takeThis episode is a goldmine for anyone in the ABA field looking to improve their supervision practice. Want more? Here’s how you can connect and read up:Check Out the Article: Swing by here to read their full discussion and access the the tools in the article. Chat with Dr. Katie Garza: Drop her an email at [email protected] or link up on LinkedIn or ResearchGate.Reach out to Dr. Becky Eldridge: Visit beckyeldridge.com, or catch her on Facebook and Instagram at @beckyeldridgeconsulting.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Join us as we delve into the nuances of compassionate parent training with BCBA Leanne Page from Parenting with ABA. In this episode, we explore how combining empathy with actionable strategies can transform parent training, enhancing both the practice and its outcomes AND how to support trainees and new BCBAs in developing these skills. Here's what we're exploring:How compassionate parent training is different from other approachesUtilizing tools and resources like the Compassionate Collaboration Tool (Rohrer, Marshall, Susio and Weiss, 2021) for improving our practicePractical strategies for supporting trainees (or ourselves!) in developing these skillsThis discussion is a must-listen for BCBAs and ABA trainees seeking to enhance their understanding and practice of compassionate parent training.Connect with Leanne Page:Explore more about compassionate parent training and access valuable resources by visiting Parenting with ABA. Follow Leanne on Instagram at @ParentingWithABA and on Facebook at Parenting with ABA for updates and insights.Articles and resources mentioned: Taylor, LeBlanc, and Nosek (2019) - Compassionate Care and Behavior Analytic Treatment: Can outcomes be enhanced by attending to relationships with caregivers?Rohrer, Marshall, Susio, and Weiss (2021) - Soft Skills: The Case for Compassionate Approaches or How Behavior Analysis Keeps Finding Its Heart (Compassionate Collaboration Tool)"Compassionomics" by Anthony Mazzarelli and Stephen Trzeciak "Fierce Conversations" by Susan ScottRohrer and Weiss (2022)Teaching Compassion Skills to Students of Behavior Analysis: A Preliminary InvestigationCritchfield, Doepke, Kimberly Epting, Becirevic, Reed, Fienup,, Kremsreiter, Ecott, (2017)- Normative Emotional Responses to Behavior Analysis Jargon or How Not to Use Words to Win Friends and Influence People. Callahan, Foxx, Swierczynski, Aerts, Mehta, McComb, Nichols, Segal, Donald, Sharma (2019)- Behavioral Artistry: Examining the Relationship Between the Interpersonal Skills and Effective Practice Repertoires of Applied Behavior Analysis PractitionersDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of "In the Field," I'm thrilled to chat with Priscilla Rodriguez Haros, a BCBA and passionate advocate for integrating reading and personal development into the practice of ABA.Here's what we cover:Embracing a Mentorship Role: Priscilla shares her insights on the importance of clear boundaries in mentorship and how it enhances the supervision process.Continuous Learning Through Literature: Dive into how reading widely can foster growth and bring innovative perspectives to one's practice.Developing Supervision Skills: Learn how Priscilla uses her reading to enhance her abilities as a supervisor, focusing on empathy, understanding, and effective communication.Leveraging Literature for Professional Growth: Explore specific book recommendations that have profoundly influenced Priscilla's approach to ABA, leadership, and mentorship.Priscilla brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm, discussing how these resources can help behavior analysts expand their expertise and approach their work with renewed insight and empathy. This conversation is essential for anyone in the ABA field looking to enhance their personal and professional development.Want to connect with Priscilla and dive deeper into her insights on reading, mentorship, and professional development in ABA? Follow her on Instagram at @BookedBX where she shares her latest reads, professional insights, and tips on integrating literature into ABA practice!Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al SwitzlerUnmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity by Dr. Devon PriceThe Compound Effect by Darren HardyBuilding and Sustaining Meaningful and Effective Relationships as a Supervisor by Linda LeBlancGood Enough Job: Reclaiming Life from Work by Simone Soltsov Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl SandbergABA Visualized: A Visual Guidebook for Applying ABA in Clinical and Educational SettingsTeaching Good Learner Repertoires by Steve WardBeyond Behaviors by Mona DelahookeOdd Girl Out by Laura JamesDisclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this podcast episode, BCBA, Dr. Shelby Dorsey, we dive into using AI to support neurodivergent supervisees. As two neurodivergent behavior analysts, we're unpacking how Dr. Shelby leverages AI to streamline clinical ABA practices and the significance of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace.Here's what we're exploring:The importance of representation supporting neurodivergent trainees and supervisees in the workplace Practical ways AI, like ChatGPT, can optimize ABA workflows and supervision.Strategies for neurodivergent practitioners to use AI for enhancing their own work and client support.Determining the role of AI in improving task efficiency and ethical considerations therein.This discussion is a great place to start for practical strategies for supporting ND supervises, Chat GPT in ABA, or both!Connect with Dr. Shelby Dorsey on Instagram at @drshelbydorsey and explore her work at www.shelbydorsey.co. Don't miss her creative outlet, The SD Store, dedicated to changing public perceptions of ABA, at www.thesd.store and @thesd.store on Instagram.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

In this episode of "In the Field," I sit down with Amy Evans from Octave Innovation to talk about some of my absolute favorite things, instructional design, precision teaching, assent, AND ongoing supervision and learning. Amy brings such a wealth of knowledge as the founder of Octave Innovation and over a decade of experience working and learning alongside other experts in these areas. We chat about:The origins and overlap of assent, instructional design, and precision teachingWhy these are critical areas for every behavior analyst to learn Practical steps to get started incorporating these elements into your practiceI love exploring these complex topics that push the boundaries of traditional ABA practice, and chatting with Amy did just that. But, we don’t just talk about the complexities or the “why” behind these, we also talk about some actionable strategies to get you started weaving these into your practice or your supervision. Connect with Amy Evans and explore Octave Innovation's work at www.octavetraining.com. Stay updated with their latest resources and updates on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram at @OctaveInnovation. For a more personal look into Amy's use of precision teaching in her daily life, follow her on Instagram at @AmyCharts. If you're interested in specific resources like the assent-based treatment checklist, sign up via their website to join their mailing list.Listen to this episode on your favorite platform, or click right here to dive in.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only. 

Welcome to In the Field- The ABA Podcast, hosted by Allyson Wharam. This podcast is a resource hub for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), business owners, training coordinators, individual supervisors, and graduate students accruing fieldwork in ABA.Allyson, the creator of Sidekick, an innovative online curriculum and learning portal for behavior analysts, dives into the nuances of ABA with a focus on quality supervision, which she believes is the cornerstone of the field. Each episode offers information on topics relevant to ABA professionals, ranging from effective strategies for supervision, innovations in the field, to practical advice for improving service quality and outcomes for clients.In the Field- The ABA Podcast is not just a show; it's a community for those who are passionate about enhancing their knowledge, skills, and practices in ABA. The podcast features interviews with experts, discussions on emerging trends, and shares actionable tips to help listeners invest in their professional growth and the advancement of the field.Whether you are driving to an in-home session, taking a break in your busy day, or seeking inspiration and guidance, this podcast is your companion in fostering excellence in ABA. Join us as we explore, learn, and grow together in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis.For more resources and information, visit our website at www.sidekicklearning.net.Disclaimer:BCBA®, BACB® [or any other BACB® trademark used] is/are registered to the Behavior Analytic Certification Board® BACB®. This website and products are not in any way sponsored by the BACB®.All information and products are for educational purposes only.