The World Behavior Analysis Day Podcast

In this episode, hosts Dr. Paulie Gavoni and Dr. Janet Sanchez Enriquez welcome Dr. Sarah Lechago, Professor of Behavior Analysis at the University of Houston–Clear Lake, to discuss her path into behavior analysis and her work connecting rigorous science with meaningful community engagement.Dr. Lechago shares that she discovered behavior analysis later in her undergraduate training, through a behavior modification course, and gained early experience working with the Victims Resource Institute and the Texas Young Autism Project. She reflects on her journey into graduate training at Western Michigan University, including reaching out to leaders in the field and navigating her path into behavior analysis.The conversation explores common misconceptions about behavior analysis within psychology, particularly the need for broader dissemination beyond autism, and highlights the importance of making the science more accessible and representative across communities.Dr. Lechago also discusses the development of the Behavior Analysts for Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity (BADIE) research lab at University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), a lab-based initiative founded in 2020 that mentors high school students through structured modules, hands-on lab experiences, and a culminating public symposium. The program emphasizes culturally responsive care and has continued to evolve within the context of Texas policy, including SB 17, while maintaining a strong focus on access, representation, and community engagement.We close with reflections on humility in practice, grounding work in radical behaviorism, avoiding perfectionism, and expanding how success is defined within the field.Listeners will gain insight into:Dr. Lechago’s path into behavior analysis:Her discovery of the field through coursework, early clinical experiences, and eventual graduate training at Western Michigan University.Misconceptions and dissemination in behavior analysis:A discussion on how behavior analysis is often misunderstood within psychology and the importance of expanding awareness beyond autism.The BADIE High School Mentorship Program:An innovative model that provides high school students with exposure to behavior analysis through structured learning modules, lab participation, and a final symposium.Culturally responsive practice and systems-level thinking:How Dr. Lechago integrates cultural responsiveness into training and mentorship, even within shifting policy landscapes.Building pathways into the field:The importance of early exposure, mentorship, and creating accessible entry points for diverse students.Advice for practitioners and students:Reflections on humility, compassionate science, avoiding perfectionism, and redefining success in meaningful ways.Access the BADIE Repository Here!Follow the BADIE Lab on InstagramErratum: Dr. Lechago would like make a correction. She mistakenly stated that her article on advice for early career behavior analysts was published in BAP. This article is published in Behavior Analysis: Research and Practice (BARP).

In this episode, we speak with Eyal Cohen, BCBA and World Behavior Analysis Day Ambassador for Israel, about his path into behavior analysis and his work expanding accessible, values-driven ABA across Israel. Eyal shares how his bi-cultural background informs his culturally responsive approach and discusses the structure of ABA services in Israel, including training programs, public and private systems, and ongoing challenges related to professional recognition.The conversation explores compassionate, ethical practice; behavioral parent training rooted in empowerment and transparency; and the importance of humility when working across cultures. Eyal also highlights his work with adults with autism, emphasizing quality of life, inclusion, and meaningful community participation, including a structured community bowling group designed to foster belonging and engagement.We close with a reflection on World Behavior Analysis Day as a celebration of the science, its humane values, and the global connections that strengthen our field.Listeners will gain insight into:Eyal’s path into ABA: He entered through work with adults with disabilities, discovered ABA training in Tel Aviv, and built a career as a clinician and educator in Israel.Cultural responsiveness as a core value: His American–Israeli–Jewish identity shapes how he approaches families, schools, and communities with humility and respect.ABA in Israel today: Services are widespread across schools, kindergartens, and adult centers, with multiple training programs—yet the field still lacks formal licensure/official recognition.Training, supervision, and accessibility: Eyal emphasizes teaching ABA transparently (no “black box”), making practices understandable for parents and teachers, and building capacity through structured training.Adults, quality of life, and inclusion: He highlights adulthood as an underserved area and focuses on meaningful engagement, environment design, community participation, and vocational opportunities.WBAD meaning: For Eyal, World Behavior Analysis Day is about celebration and connection, building global collaboration and remembering the field’s humane roots.Resources Mentioned:Ethics for Behavior Analysts (Bailey & Burch)Behavior LIVE: The Impact of Cultural Factors on Behavior Analysis Practice in a Multi-Cultural Society 

In this World Behavior Analysis Day Podcast episode, hosts Dr. Paulie Gavoni and Dr. Janet Sanchez Enriquez welcome David Roth, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst whose work is deeply informed by the writings of B.F. Skinner. For more than two decades, David has studied and reflected on Skinner’s ideas, extending them through his conceptual work on mindfulness, compassion, and culture. In his professional role, David also works directly with autistic support classrooms and children, bringing these principles into practice in educational settings. David shares his journey into behavior analysis, his intersectional work with mindfulness, meditation, and lovingkindness, and his continued role with the B.F. Skinner Foundation publication committee. The discussion highlights David’s origin story with Verbal Behavior (1957), his formative experiences navigating the Skinner-Chomsky debate, and his thoughtful conceptual writings on compassion, ethics, and culture.Listeners will gain insight into:David’s introduction to Skinner through Verbal Behavior (1957) and impact.How early disagreements about Chomsky’s critique shaped his academic growth and commitment to Skinnerian analysis.His role in the B.F. Skinner Foundation publication committee, supplementing re-publications with Skinner’s notes.Why Skinner’s cultural commentaries in Reflections on Behaviorism and Society remain crucial today.Conceptual writings on meditation, mindfulness, and lovingkindness as scientifically grounded practices.How Walden Two and Skinner’s Notebooks continue to inspire ethical perspectives on helping and compassion.The development of the Dialogues on Verbal Behavior podcast with David Palmer as a resource for learners.Practical advice for applying the contingency view lens to our own lives for more compassionate, ethical action.BEHAVIORAL IMPLICATIONS OF “LOVING” ONE’S ENEMIES JESUS, BUDDHA, AND SKINNER AS PARTNERS ON THE PATH TO PEACETimestamps:04:30 – David’s origin story: discovering Verbal Behavior (1957)12:30 – Early challenges and the Skinner vs. Chomsky debate23:00 – Entering academia and formative mentorship experiences29:30 – Discovering Skinner’s Notebooks and its impact34:00 – Reflections on Skinner’s cultural commentaries today41:00 – Lovingkindness paper: bringing Skinner, Jesus, and Buddha into dialogue

In this World Behavior Analysis Day Podcast episode, hosts Dr. Paulie Gavoni and Dr. Janet Enriquez welcome the esteemed Dr. Dave Palmer. A leading voice in behavior analysis, Dr. Palmer shares his journey into radical behaviorism, the impact of B.F. Skinner on his career, and his deep exploration of verbal behavior.The conversation dives into his early inspiration from Walden Two, his attempt at forming a cooperative based on behaviorist principles, and how a personal letter to Skinner led to a life-changing mentorship. Dr. Palmer also discusses his academic journey, his deep intellectual dive into Noam Chomsky’s linguistic theories, and how he ultimately refuted Chomsky’s critiques of behaviorism.Listeners will gain insight into:Influence of Walden Two – How reading B.F. Skinner’s Walden Two shaped Dr. Palmer’s early ideals and career.Meeting B.F. Skinner – His firsthand experience meeting Skinner and how it influenced his professional trajectory.Critique of Chomsky – His in-depth analysis of Noam Chomsky’s linguistic theories and how they contrast with behavior analysis.Selectionist Account of Reinforcement – The connection between reinforcement and natural selection in shaping behavior.Emersonian Philosophy & Behavior Analysis – How Emerson’s philosophical ideas intersect with behavior analysis.Intellectual Humility & Scientific Debate – The importance of engaging with opposing views to advance knowledge in behavior analysis.This engaging and thought-provoking discussion is a must-listen for behavior analysts, educators, and anyone interested in the philosophy and application of radical behaviorism.Timestamps:04:30 - Welcoming Dr. Dave Palmer06:00 - How Walden Two sparked his interest in behaviorism12:30 - His efforts to create a Walden Two-inspired cooperative18:15 - Writing to B.F. Skinner and their first meeting25:40 - His deep dive into Chomsky’s linguistic theories34:00 - Why Skinner’s approach to verbal behavior still holds up today41:20 - The selectionist account of reinforcement & its parallels to natural selection50:00 - How philosophy, particularly Emerson’s essay on Compensation, connects to behavior analysis56:00 - Reflections on mentorship and shaping future behavior analystsResources Mentioned:Walden Two by B.F. SkinnerVerbal Behavior by B.F. SkinnerDr. Palmer’s paper Chomsky’s Nativism Criticized (Published in The Analysis of Verbal Behavior, 2000)Learning and Complex Behavior by John Donahoe & Dave PalmerConnect with Dr. Palmer:Smith College WebsiteEmail Dr. Palmer

In this special episode of the World Behavior Analysis Day Podcast, hosts Dr. Paulie Gavoni and Dr. Janet Enriquez welcome the legendary Dr. Steven C. Hayes—a pioneering psychologist and the founder of Relational Frame Theory (RFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).Dr. Hayes takes us on a deep dive into his personal and professional journey, from his early exposure to behavior analysis to the pivotal moments that led to the development of ACT and RFT. He shares candid stories about his struggles with panic disorder and the intellectual battles that shaped his groundbreaking work in contextual behavioral science.Influence of Walden Two – How reading B.F. Skinner’s Walden Two sparked Dr. Hayes’ passion for psychology and behavior analysis.Modernizing Behaviorism – His efforts to bring radical behaviorism into a new era, despite resistance from traditional behavior analysts.Relational Frame Theory (RFT) – The origins and impact of RFT, emphasizing how "relating is an operant" transformed the study of language and cognition.Personal Struggles & ACT – How his experience with panic disorder led to the development of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).Psychological Flexibility – The philosophical and practical foundations of psychological flexibility and its importance for human well-being.Mentorship & Influences – Reflections on his relationships with B.F. Skinner, Willard Day, and other influential figures in behavior analysis.Future of Behavior Analysis – His perspective on the direction of the field, emphasizing the importance of innovation and scientific humility.Timestamps: 06:00 - Welcoming Dr. Steven Hayes & his early exposure to behavior analysis12:30 - From Walden Two to radical behaviorism: The early influences on his career18:15 - Skinner, language, and the philosophical battles in behavior analysis25:40 - The evolution of Relational Frame Theory (RFT) and why it matters34:00 - How ACT emerged from personal struggle and scientific exploration41:20 - The role of psychological flexibility in human well-being50:00 - Reflections on Skinner, mentorship, and pushing the boundaries of behavior analysis56:00 - The future of behavioral science & the importance of cross-disciplinary collaborationResources Mentioned:Walden Two by B.F. SkinnerVerbal Behavior by B.F. SkinnerLearning and Complex Behavior by John Donahoe & Dave PalmerA Liberated Mind: How to Pivot Toward What Matters by Dr. Steven C. HayesACT Bootcamp for Behavior Analysts – April 24-27, 2025, in Oakland, CAConnect with Dr. Hayes:🌎 Website📘 Books & Publications🎧 ACT in Practice Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Janet Sanchez Enriquez and Dr. Paulie Gavoni are joined by a remarkable guest, Dr. Noor Syed - Assistant Professor of Applied Behavior Analysis, founding Director of the Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Services (CAARES) at SUNY Empire State University, and the Turben Director of Autism Advocacy. Dr. Syed has dedicated over 20 years to advancing autism advocacy, behavior analysis, and global inclusion. Her work spans teaching, therapy, and consultation in countries like Uganda, India, and Indonesia, while her leadership at Anderson Center International and ABAEthicsHotline.com reflects her commitment to ethical and affirming practices.Highlights include:Dr. Syed's journey into behavior analysis and her inspiration for championing neurodiverse inclusion.How CAARES uses the MTSS framework to create inclusive college environments.Launching a Master of Science in ABA with a focus on affirming, responsive practice.Insights from her global consultation experience and ethical challenges in the field.Her vision for equity, inclusion, and the future of behavior analysis.Tune in as we explore Dr. Syed’s innovative contributions to autism advocacy and her vision for fostering global acceptance and accessibility in behavior analysis.

We're thrilled to welcome you to a special episode of the WBAD Podcast, where Paulie and Janet Enriquez sit down with one of the true luminaries in our field, Dr. Pat Friman. Dr. Friman's influence spans decades, from his role as Vice President of Behavioral Health at Boys Town to his tenure as a Clinical Professor at the University of Nebraska School of Medicine. With over 200 scientific publications and a career that bridges academic, clinical, and applied settings, his contributions to behavioral pediatrics, behavioral medicine, and the broader field of behavior analysis are legendary. This episode dives deep into the role of compassion in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), exploring how integrating a compassionate perspective reshapes behavioral health services. With topics ranging from empathy in practice to the transformative "Circumstances View" of behavior, Dr. Friman's insights challenge and inspire. Tune in for a conversation that promises not only to elevate your understanding but also to ignite a passion for more humane and effective practices in our field. 

Join us as we welcome the esteemed Dr. Stuart Vyse to discuss a range of compelling topics at the forefront of behavior analysis and autism research. In this episode, Dr. Vyse explores the history of the autism diagnosis and the evolving implications of the spectrum concept. We discuss the ongoing conflict between the autism self-advocacy and neurodiversity movements and the unique challenges faced by individuals on the severe end of the autism spectrum.Dr. Vyse also addresses the controversial resurgence of facilitated communication and its various modern iterations, including the rapid prompting method, spelling to communicate, and the use of letter boards. We examine the spread of the identity-based neurodiversity movement to other conditions like schizophrenia and the push to introduce a diagnosis for severe autism. Tune in for a compelling conversation that navigates these critical issues, shedding light on the complex landscape of autism advocacy and behavior analysis.Show Notes/Links:Texts written by Dr. Vyse:Believing in magic: The psychology of superstition-updated edition. Oxford University Press, USA. Link: https://bit.ly/3WUD35aGoing broke: Why Americans can't hold on to their money. Oxford University Press. Link:https://bit.ly/4dpONlwSkeptical Inquirer Selected Works by Dr. Vyse on Behavior & Belief:Link to articles: https://bit.ly/4dtjdnvTexts Referenced in the Podcast:Chasing the intact mind: How the severely autistic and intellectually disabled were excluded from the debates that affect them most. Oxford University Press.Link: https://rb.gy/jbdz2bControversial therapies for autism and intellectual disabilities (pp. 3-16). New York: Routledge. Link:https://rb.gy/1otnvjReferenced Videos, Websites and Papers:Frontline: Prisoners of Silence (1992) Video: https://rb.gy/aut6bfFacilitatedcommunication.org was created to counter misleading information about Facilitated Communication and protect the autism community from harm. This forum offers resources, research articles, portrayals in the media, and activism opportunities against facilitated communication.Mental Illness & the Tragedy of Good Intentions by Dr.Vyse: https://rb.gy/sp3bukNational Council on Severe Autism Website: https://www.ncsautism.org/Profound Autism Alliance: https://www.profoundautism.org/Association for Science in Autism Treatment: https://asatonline.org/Special Issue of Communication in Association for Science in Autism Treatment: https://rb.gy/7t528z

We welcome Dr. William M. Baum to the World Behavior Analysis Day podcast! Dr. Baum has made significant contributions to the field of behavior analysis. He has authored numerous influential journal articles covering a wide array of topics, from laboratory research to philosophical explorations. Two of his most widely cited papers are (1) the empirical and theoretical analysis of choice behavior, which he authored with Rachlin (1969 and 1974). In addition, he has written general philosophical works on behaviorism, focusing on biology and evolution. A consistent contributor to ABAI conventions, he has published 64 quality papers and is an invited presenter for the 2024 Association for Behavior Analysis International. In this insightful conversation, we explore the concepts of molar and molecular behavior, discuss some of his memories of  B.F. Skinner, and dive into Dr. Baum's latest book, "Introduction to Behaviorism: An Evolutionary Perspective." We also touch upon how Eastern philosophies have influenced his perspective on behaviorism. Don't miss this enlightening episode with one of the leading figures in the field.Show Notes/Links:Dr. Baum’s Texts Referenced in the Podcast:Understanding Behaviorism: Behavior, Culture, and Evolution 3rd Edition: https://rb.gy/yrgpwqIntroduction to Behavior: An Evolutionary Perspective 1st Edition: https://www.amazon.com/Introduction-Behavior-Evolutionary-William-Baum/dp/1394184611Science and Philosophy of Behavior: Selected Papers 1st Edition, Kindle Edition: https://rb.gy/st1s35Selected Papers:From Molecular to Molar: A Paradigm Shift  in Behavior Analysis:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1284889/pdf/12144313.pdfBehaviorism, Private Events, and the Molar View of Behavior:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3211378/Rethinking Reinforcement: Allocation, Induction, and Contingency:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3266735/Radical Behaviorism and the Concept of Agency: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/William-Baum/publication/233815151_Radical_Behaviorism_and_the_Concept_of_Agency/links/09e4150bd58048e2a5000000/Radical-Behaviorism-and-the-Concept-of-Agency.pdfABAI 2024 Events for Dr. Baum:Invited Paper Session#66: Induction Versus Reinforcement and the Molar View of Behavior: 5/25/24: 4PM- 4:50PMSpecial Event: #209 A: The Development of Behavior Science: 5/26/24; 9AM-11:50 AMPanel #355: Significance of Evolutionary Theory and Cultural Design: Advancing Science and Practice of Behavior Analysis: 5/26/24: 6PM- 6:50PM

In this fun and essential episode of our podcast, we dive into the heart of behavior analysis with a profound discussion on Dr. Bobby Newman's enlightening book, "I Can't if I Don't Know How: B.F. Skinner, Humanism, ABA, and Promoting Freedom." Addressing the critical mischaracterizations of behavioral science, Bobby, Executive Director of Clinical Services at Proud Moments ABA,  ignites an essential dialogue on rectifying these misconceptions and underscoring the true value of ABA. From myths casting shadows over the field to their detrimental effects on those deterred from seeking help, this conversation is a must-listen for all. Join us as we explore the driving force behind Bobby's commitment to shedding light on these issues and the pathway to correcting them.Dr. Newman's Author PageDr. Newman encourages listeners to support TEAM ABA as they run the half marathon in Nashville to support the families of St. Jude: https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=4127584&fr_id=145338&pg=personal&copy_link_share

Welcome to a special episode of the World Behavior Analysis Day Podcast! Today, we're honored to feature Helen Obiageli Oshikoya, a distinguished WBAD Ambassador and Mental Health Consultant from Lagos, Nigeria. Helen specializes in Early Intervention through the Science of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), offering invaluable insights into the field's impact and potential in diverse cultural contexts.Introduction to Our GuestHelen shares her journey into behavior analysis and what drew her to pursue this field in Nigeria, shedding light on her passion for making a difference in the lives of individuals through early intervention.Dispelling Misconceptions About Behavior AnalysisBehavior analysis often faces misunderstandings, from being viewed as a method of control to being seen as overly simplistic. Helen discusses these misconceptions she's encountered in Nigeria and outlines her approach to clarifying the compassionate, evidence-based nature of behavior analysis.Cultural Responsiveness in Behavior AnalysisThe significance of cultural responsiveness in behavior analysis cannot be overstated. Helen emphasizes the importance of tailoring interventions to accommodate and respect cultural nuances, enhancing the effectiveness and acceptance of behavior analysis in diverse settings.Behavior Analysis Addressing Local ChallengesHelen explores how behavior analysis can address social, educational, and healthcare challenges specific to Nigeria, highlighting its versatility and potential for broad impact.Adapting ABA Training to Local ContextsWith Nigeria's rich cultural and linguistic diversity, adapting ABA training programs is crucial. Helen discusses strategies for aligning training with local contexts to ensure the effective dissemination of knowledge and skills.Advocacy and Policy Reforms for Behavior AnalysisAdvocacy and dissemination are key to promoting behavior analysis. Helen talks about the necessary advocacy efforts and policy reforms to integrate behavior analysis into various sectors in Nigeria, ensuring accessibility and affordability for those in need.Community and Institutional Advocacy EffortsFinally, Helen shares her experiences with specific advocacy efforts and dissemination strategies to foster understanding and adoption of behavior analysis principles within local communities and institutions.Join us as we dive into these topics with Helen Oshikoya, exploring the transformative power of behavior analysis and its capacity to improve lives across the globe.Nobelova Gradani Website: https://www.nobelovagradani.org/aboutUsFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/nobelova/Therapy Route:https://www.therapyroute.com/therapist/helen-oshikoya-lagos-ngLinkedIn:https://ng.linkedin.com/in/helen-oshikoya-410a3640

Join us this week as we sit down with the eminent Dr. SungWoo Kahng, a leader in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Wearing multiple hats, from being the Behavior Analyst Certification Board President to his roles at Rutgers University as Chair of the Department of Applied Psychology, Director of Academic Programs in Autism and ABA, and Professor, Dr. Kahng offers invaluable insights from his years of experience. We delve deep into the essence of mentoring, its pivotal role in shaping upcoming professionals, and the pressing need for diversity and equity in ABA. But that's not all - we also discuss current trends and challenges in our profession, actionable steps to take, and explore his vision for the future of the field. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newbie in the world of ABA, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge, perspective, and inspiration. Don't miss it!Show Notes/Links:Articles on the lack of representation of Asian Americans in leadership positions:Asian Americans Are the Least Likely Group in the U.S. to Be Promoted to ManagementAsian American and Pacific Islander Faculty and the Bamboo Ceiling: Barriers to Leadership and Implications for Leadership DevelopmentSeveral, but certainly not an exhaustive, listing of articles on increasing cultural diversity and cultural responsiveness within behavior analysis:Beaulieu, L., Addington, J., & Almeida, D. (2019). Behavior analysts' training and practices regarding cultural diversity: The case for culturally competent care. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 12(3), 557-575.Conners, B., Johnson, A., Duarte, J., Murriky, R., & Marks, K. (2019). Future directions of training and fieldwork in diversity issues in applied behavior analysis. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 12, 767-776.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.Jimenez‐Gomez, C., & Beaulieu, L. (2022). Cultural responsiveness in applied behavior analysis: Research and practice. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 55(3), 650-673.Articles on Mentoring and Influences in behavior analysis:LeBlanc, L. A. (2015). My mentors and their influences on my career. The Behavior Analyst, 38(2), 237-245.Favell, J. E. (2015). A career in behavior analysis: Notes from the journey. The Behavior Analyst, 38(2), 229-236Pétursdóttir, A. I. (2015). Influences on my early academic career. The Behavior Analyst, 38, 255-262..Donate to World Behavior Analysis Day: https://behavioranalysisday.com/donate-to-wbada

World Behavior Analysis Day Alliance, LLC. (WBADA) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, established March 19, 2021. The World Behavior Analysis Day Alliance is the hub that promotes an international inclusive celebration of the science of behavior analysis and sparks growth in its awareness, acceptance, and use. During the weeklong celebration of behavior analysis, beginning March 14th and culminating on March 20th, behavior analysis is recognized worldwide.The date, March 20th, was selected for World Behavior Analysis Day because it is the birthdate of B.F. Skinner, the founder of contemporary behavior analysis. Skinner's radical research on behaviorism laid the groundwork for applied behavior analysis. With the growth of the discipline, behavior analysis now has a strong field with theoretical, experimental, and applied branches and distinct research methods. This field has scientific journals, textbooks, scholarly and professional organizations, and university training programs.In this interview, we learn about the inception, mission, and vision for the future of the World Behavior Analysis Day Alliance (WBADA) from its President, Elizabeth Drago. Elizabeth shares her ABA story, diverse background in the field, and exciting committees within WBADA, providing a platform for educating others about this burgeoning field. In addition, she offers ideas on how others can participate in the weeklong celebration, providing resources to get in touch with WBADA to join in efforts to disseminate science worldwide.This World Behavior Analysis Day, let us recognize all the behavior analysts who commit themselves to improving the human condition one behavior at a time.Show Notes/Links:World Behavior Analysis Day Website:https://behavioranalysisday.com/World Behavior Analysis Day Contact: https://behavioranalysisday.com/contactWorld Behavior Analysis Day Ambassadors: https://behavioranalysisday.com/wbada-ambassadorsWorld Behavior Analysis Day YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@worldbehavioranalysisday5293World Behavior Analysis Day Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/behaviorday/World Behavior Analysis Day Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/WorldBehaviorAnalysisDayDonate to World Behavior Analysis Day: https://behavioranalysisday.com/donate-to-wbada

Behavior analysts' jobs focus on improving lives through the science of behavior. Similarly, there is a responsibility to disseminate behavior analysis by making information about the science more accessible and engaging. However, it is often challenging to effectively translate our procedures and technical language into our unique communities to inspire and motivate change.During this interview, accomplished authors and professors Jill C. Dardig and William L. Heward discuss their lives' work across the world and their pursuits in doing just that.  Episode Description:In this episode, we discuss their entry into the field of Behavior Analysis and Special Education, their thoughts on effective programming for individuals with disabilities, and their motivation to write their first book together titled, Sign Here: A Contracting Book for Children and their Parents. They share the success of its distribution and translation into multiple languages across the globe and discuss the need to provide an updated, inclusive version of the book today: Let's Make a Contract: a Positive Way to Change your Child's Behavior. In Let's Make a Contract, parents learn a research-based practice, behavioral contracting, that is easy to use and benefits all learners. The authors provide beautifully illustrated stories to show children how contracts address everyday challenges like completing chores, achieving goals, getting along, and becoming more independent. Each story ends with questions designed to spark age-appropriate discussion. The book and accompanying website provide sample contracting forms and supporting materials that can be found below. Show NotesLet’s Make a Contract: A Positive Way to Change Your Child’s BehaviorCompanion website: https://contractingwithkids.comReview in Behavior Analysis in Practice “Parents will look at this book and think, ‘I would like to read that’.”  https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40617-022-00723-7Review in Science in Autism Treatment “Dardig and Heward’s engaging storytelling highlights the numerous ways in which contracting can be used to create positive behavior change.” https://asatonline.org/research-treatment/book-reviews/review-of-lets-make-a-contract/CaregiversDardig, J. C. (2008). Involving Parents of Students with Special Needs: 25 Ready-to-Use Strategies. Corwin Press. https://us.corwin.com/en-us/nam/book/involving-parents-students-special-needsHeward, W. L. (2012). It’s OK to say I don’t know. Science in Autism Treatment, 9(4), 1-3. Heward, W. L., Alber-Morgan, S. R., & Konrad, M. (2022). Ten Guidelines for Communicating with Parents. In Exceptional Children: An Introduction to Special Education (12th ed.) (p. 90). Pearson.  Educators Dardig, J.C.  (1995).  I'd been doing it wrong for so long it looked like right to me: Using case method to teach introduction to ABA. The Behavior Analyst, 18(1), 161-166.  https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03392702  Heward, W. L., Critchfield, T. S., Reed, D. D.,  Detrich, R., & Kimball, J. W. (2022).  ABA from A-to-Z: Behavior science applied to 350 domains of socially significant behavior. Perspectives on Behavior Science, 45, 327-359. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40614-022-00336-z. 

Are you interested in the science of behavior change to make the world a better place? Tune into our inaugural World Behavior Analysis Day Podcast and listen to Dr. Julie Vargas share her insight and anecdotes about her life, work, and father B.F. Skinner. Dr. Julie Vargas is an American author, educator, and behavior analyst. She is the oldest child of B. F. and Eve Skinner. In addition to her bachelor's degree in music from Radcliffe College, she holds a master's degree in music education from Columbia University, as well as a doctorate in educational research from the University of Pittsburgh. Her teaching career at West Virginia University spanned more than 30 years in the College of Human Resources and Education. Dr. Vargas was a founding editor of The Behavior Analyst and a former president of the Association for Behavior Analysis International. She is president of the B. F. Skinner Foundation, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and has written or co-authored four books, including Behavior Analysis for Effective Teaching, released in 2009. During this episode, Dr. Vargas graciously shares her experiences as a teacher, researcher, and behavior analyst, as well as her efforts to continue her father's work, the renowned behavioral scientist B.F. Skinner, through the B.F. Skinner Foundation.We are honored to have such a distinguished scholar share her insights with our listeners!Show Note Links:Skinner FoundationBehavior Analysis for Effective Teaching Text The Shame of American Education Article The Shame of American Education Video Morningside Academy Podcast Precision Teaching: Discoveries and Effects Training Cats Anecdote by Deborah Buzan B.F. Skinner: The Last Few Days B.F. Skinner Books