DiscoverABA Business Leaders
ABA Business Leaders
Claim Ownership

ABA Business Leaders

Author: Stephen Smith

Subscribed: 28Played: 678
Share

Description

Join us as we dive deep into the world of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), exploring real-world challenges and practical strategies to improve the quality, ethics, and sustainability of ABA services. Hosted by April & Stephen, the team behind 3 Pie Squared, each episode brings actionable insights for practice owners, clinicians, and leaders in the field—whether you’re just getting started or scaling your business.

Expect candid conversations, expert interviews, and honest advice about supervision, billing, hiring, training, compliance, and more. Our goal? To help you build an ABA practice that serves clients ethically and effectively—while supporting your team and growing your business with purpose.

🔗 Learn more about our courses, handbooks, and consulting services at www.3piesquared.com.

170 Episodes
Reverse
Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.🗓️ Live Every Monday: We stream this podcast live in our exclusive Facebook group, where members can interact, ask questions, and share their own experiences. 🎧 New Episode Every Tuesday: We release the recorded episode on all major podcast platforms so you can catch up anytime.What to Expect Each Week:✅ The latest news and real-time updates impacting ABA practice owners—legislation, funding, best practices, and trends ✅ Tips, resources, and real-world guidance on launching, managing, and scaling your practice ✅ Stories and experiences from our own journey, and from other professionals in the field ✅ Interactive Q&A from our Facebook group membersWhether you’re dreaming of starting your own practice, just getting off the ground, or looking to take your ABA business to the next level, April and Stephen are here to help you every step of the way.👉 Join the Conversation: Be part of our supportive Facebook community and get involved in the live episodes. Your questions, comments, and stories are what make this podcast thrive!____________________________________________________________________________________If you’re ready to build a strong foundation for your ABA practice, don’t miss my ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs It’s a great way to stay ahead with practical insights.Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know your ABA business is ready to scale? Check out my free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessmentAnd if you’re looking for straightforward ABA billing tips to keep your cash flow healthy, grab my quick guide here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_TipsLet’s get your business on track—one step at a time.
This week on the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, Stephen and April continue the Back to Basics series by tackling one of the most critical foundations for any ABA practice: operations agreements. From legal safeguards to conflict resolution, they break down the agreements and systems that keep a business running smoothly — and why getting them right early can save you major headaches later. 🔍 Inside the Episode: ✅ Avoiding common mistakes – Stephen explains why a solid legal system is non-negotiable when drafting operations agreements. His tip: don’t rely on AI templates — use a trusted resource like LegalShield to protect yourself from costly missteps. ✅ Ownership and roles – April and Stephen share how easily things can get messy with multiple partners, and why defining roles and responsibilities at the start sets everyone up for success. ✅ Money, money, money – From who has access to who makes decisions, clearly defining financial roles keeps your practice secure and sustainable. ✅ Impartial financial mentors – Stephen emphasizes the importance of having an outside, impartial perspective when it comes to money. ✅ Hiring and firing – April and Stephen discuss how defining “quality” is key. Their method: brainstorm individually, then come together to compare and align your expectations. ✅ Roles and responsibilities – April highlights the value of a clear chart for employees so everyone knows who to turn to. These charts will evolve as your business grows, but they’re critical for clarity at every stage. ✅ Conflict resolution – From policies to personal growth, April emphasizes the importance of mental health support. Working with a therapist can make you a stronger communicator and leader when tensions rise. 💡 Whether you’re just launching your ABA practice or refining your systems as you grow, this episode will help you build operations agreements that protect your business, your people, and your peace of mind. 📌 Resources: ABA Business Readiness Assessment – See where your business stands Book a Consult with Stephen – Honest guidance from someone who gets it 📞 Want to get in touch via our hotline? Give us a call at (737) 330-1432!
Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.🗓️ Live Every Monday: We stream this podcast live in our exclusive Facebook group, where members can interact, ask questions, and share their own experiences. 🎧 New Episode Every Tuesday: We release the recorded episode on all major podcast platforms so you can catch up anytime.What to Expect Each Week:✅ The latest news and real-time updates impacting ABA practice owners—legislation, funding, best practices, and trends ✅ Tips, resources, and real-world guidance on launching, managing, and scaling your practice ✅ Stories and experiences from our own journey, and from other professionals in the field ✅ Interactive Q&A from our Facebook group membersWhether you’re dreaming of starting your own practice, just getting off the ground, or looking to take your ABA business to the next level, April and Stephen are here to help you every step of the way.👉 Join the Conversation: Be part of our supportive Facebook community and get involved in the live episodes. Your questions, comments, and stories are what make this podcast thrive!____________________________________________________________________________________If you’re ready to build a strong foundation for your ABA practice, don’t miss my ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs It’s a great way to stay ahead with practical insights.Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know your ABA business is ready to scale? Check out my free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessmentAnd if you’re looking for straightforward ABA billing tips to keep your cash flow healthy, grab my quick guide here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_TipsLet’s get your business on track—one step at a time.
Market Analysis for ABA Businesses: Back To Basics This week on the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, Stephen and April continue the Back to Basics series with a practical deep dive into market analysis — one of the most important, and often misunderstood, steps in building an ABA company. From cutting through the noise of 40-page reports to understanding what your competitors really charge, this episode is all about asking the right questions and applying lessons you can actually use. 💡 Whether you’re planning your very first clinic or refining your growth strategy, you’ll walk away with a sharper sense of how to analyze your market and use that knowledge to make better business decisions. 🔍 Inside the Episode: ✅ The job that keeps changing – Stephen explains how quickly your role evolves once you open your doors, and why setting clear boundaries on services and clients is essential. ✅ Five questions that matter – April breaks market analysis down to the basics: Who, What, Why, Where, and How. No lengthy reports required, just clarity on the right questions. ✅ What people say vs. what they do – Stephen shares a hard-earned lesson about the gap between verbal commitments and the real-world follow-through required when launching clinics or new services. ✅ Defining your own goals – April reminds us that not every business needs to scale to a multi-clinic model. Growth should be aligned with your personal goals, not someone else’s playbook. ✅ Setting rates with confidence – Stephen stresses that rates should rise, not fall, with private funders, and that knowing competitors’ pricing keeps you competitive. ✅ Collaboration as strategy – April highlights the increasing demand for BCBAs and ABA services, and why working with other providers can strengthen both your business and your community. 📌 Resources: ✅ ABA Business Readiness Assessment – See where your business stands ✅Book a Consult with Stephen – Honest guidance from someone who gets it 📞 Want to get in touch via our new hotline? Give us a call at (737) 330-1432! 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and put these fundamentals into action — your business will thank you for it.
Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.🗓️ Live Every Monday: We stream this podcast live in our exclusive Facebook group, where members can interact, ask questions, and share their own experiences. 🎧 New Episode Every Tuesday: We release the recorded episode on all major podcast platforms so you can catch up anytime.What to Expect Each Week:✅ The latest news and real-time updates impacting ABA practice owners—legislation, funding, best practices, and trends ✅ Tips, resources, and real-world guidance on launching, managing, and scaling your practice ✅ Stories and experiences from our own journey, and from other professionals in the field ✅ Interactive Q&A from our Facebook group membersWhether you’re dreaming of starting your own practice, just getting off the ground, or looking to take your ABA business to the next level, April and Stephen are here to help you every step of the way.👉 Join the Conversation: Be part of our supportive Facebook community and get involved in the live episodes. Your questions, comments, and stories are what make this podcast thrive!____________________________________________________________________________________If you’re ready to build a strong foundation for your ABA practice, don’t miss my ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs It’s a great way to stay ahead with practical insights.Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know your ABA business is ready to scale? Check out my free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessmentAnd if you’re looking for straightforward ABA billing tips to keep your cash flow healthy, grab my quick guide here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_TipsLet’s get your business on track—one step at a time.
Episode Title: Start an ABA Company: Back To Basics This week on the ABA Business Leaders Podcast as part of their ‘back to basics’ series for 2025, Stephen and April sit down to share hard-earned lessons about the early stages of business ownership. From carving out time while still in a 9–5 to setting boundaries that stick, they dig into the practical — and often overlooked — steps that can make or break an ABA business. From money management to mentorship, and from fighting isolation to facing failure, this episode is packed with insights for ABA leaders ready to take their first steps with confidence. 🔍 Inside the Episode: ✅ Making the leap – Stephen explains why it’s crucial to use your free time wisely before leaving your full-time job to build early momentum. ✅ Boundaries that last – April unpacks how quickly new owners can get sucked into the whirlwind, and why sustainable schedules are non-negotiable. ✅ Money myths – Together, Stephen and April get real about finances: if you don’t have at least $500 in reserve, it may not be the right time to start. ✅ Mentors & accountants – Why having these two key players in your corner from day one can save you from costly mistakes later. ✅ It’s lonely at the top – Stephen reflects on the isolation of business ownership and the power of connecting with other leaders who “get it.” ✅ Don’t become the bad boss – Lessons on tying your business back to your values, so you don’t recreate the same problems you left behind. ✅ Facing failure – April and Stephen normalize mistakes and highlight why policies, procedures, and learning moments are essential for growth. 💡 Whether you’re on the verge of launching your ABA practice or looking to strengthen your foundation, this conversation will give you the clarity, encouragement, and tools you need to start strong. 📌 Resources: ✅ ABA Business Readiness Assessment – See where your business stands ✅ Book a Consult with Stephen – Honest guidance from someone who gets it 💼 This episode is sponsored by Live Oak Bank Live Oak Bank offers specialized loan solutions designed for the unique needs of your ABA business. 👉 Find out more 🎧 Tune in and take notes — your future ABA business depends on it. 📞 Want to get in touch via our new hotline? Give us a call at (737) 330-1432!
Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.🗓️ Live Every Monday: We stream this podcast live in our exclusive Facebook group, where members can interact, ask questions, and share their own experiences. 🎧 New Episode Every Tuesday: We release the recorded episode on all major podcast platforms so you can catch up anytime.What to Expect Each Week:✅ The latest news and real-time updates impacting ABA practice owners—legislation, funding, best practices, and trends ✅ Tips, resources, and real-world guidance on launching, managing, and scaling your practice ✅ Stories and experiences from our own journey, and from other professionals in the field ✅ Interactive Q&A from our Facebook group membersWhether you’re dreaming of starting your own practice, just getting off the ground, or looking to take your ABA business to the next level, April and Stephen are here to help you every step of the way.👉 Join the Conversation: Be part of our supportive Facebook community and get involved in the live episodes. Your questions, comments, and stories are what make this podcast thrive!____________________________________________________________________________________If you’re ready to build a strong foundation for your ABA practice, don’t miss my ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs It’s a great way to stay ahead with practical insights.Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know your ABA business is ready to scale? Check out my free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessmentAnd if you’re looking for straightforward ABA billing tips to keep your cash flow healthy, grab my quick guide here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_TipsLet’s get your business on track—one step at a time.
🎙 ABA Mythbusting!

🎙 ABA Mythbusting!

2025-09-1138:05

In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, hosts Stephen and April Smith get personal with some life updates, share exciting news about the growth of their team, and introduce new services—including billing support. They also announce an upcoming podcast series focused on startup advice and take on common misconceptions about what it really takes to start an ABA business. Whether you’re in the early stages of planning your practice or already managing a growing team, this episode delivers practical insights about balance, planning, and the mindset shifts that fuel long-term success. And a big thank you to our sponsor, SILNA – supporting ABA providers with the tools and advocacy needed to strengthen the field. 👉 Learn more here: https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/SILNA 📞 Want to get in touch via our new hotline? Give us a call at (737) 330-1432! 🔑 Key Takeaways Taking intentional time off is crucial for entrepreneurs. Building a strong team creates better work-life balance. Effective communication is the foundation of team success. Planning ahead makes extended time off possible. A new podcast series will focus on startup advice and resources. Marketing your ABA business is essential for attracting clients. You don’t need to know everything before you start. Business plans matter—but they don’t have to be perfect. Success doesn’t mean working 24/7. Curiosity and continuous learning drive growth. 📚 Resources & Links Looking for ways to strengthen your ABA business? Check out these resources: 👉 Earn CEUs while listening to the podcast: https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs 👉 Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know if your ABA business is ready to scale? Take the free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment 👉 Need practical tips to keep your ABA billing on track? Download the quick guide here: https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips 👉 Partner with SILNA to support and advocate for the ABA field: https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/SILNA
ABA Business Leaders Podcast – Episode: “ABA Hotline & Community Questions!In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, hosts Stephen and April Smith discuss the launch of a new hotline ((737) 330-1432) for listeners to ask questions about running ABA practices. They dive into the most common concerns facing ABA business owners, including insurance claims, rate negotiation, cancellation policies, and the challenges of scheduling and hiring staff. Throughout the conversation, Stephen and April emphasize the importance of curiosity, clear communication, and structured onboarding to ensure high-quality services and sustainable business practices in the ABA field. Takeaways from this episode: Curiosity is valued in the ABA community—no question is too small or silly. Launching a hotline provides real-time guidance for practice owners. Insurance claims are often denied due to simple errors—attention to detail is critical. Understanding your minimum acceptable rates and negotiating contracts protects your business. Cancellation policies should be communicated clearly and enforced consistently. Scheduling challenges are common but solvable with operational planning. Hiring should focus on cultural fit and values alignment. Rigorous onboarding ensures staff are prepared to provide quality care. Collaboration and transparent communication improve overall service quality. Sponsored by MarginKeepers: This episode is brought to you by MarginKeepers, a team dedicated to helping ABA practices maintain financial clarity, streamline operations, and grow sustainably. Resources & Links: Stay ahead with practical insights through the ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know your ABA business is ready to scale? Take the free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment Looking for straightforward ABA billing tips to keep your cash flow healthy? Grab the quick guide here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips Ready to streamline your practice finances and simplify your operations? Check out MarginKeepers here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/MarginKeepers Want to get in touch via our new hotline? Give us a call on: (737) 330-1432!
🎙 ABA Business Leaders Podcast – AMA Edition: Balancing Ethics, Teams, and the Future of ABA In this special AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode, Stephen and April take questions straight from the ABA Business Leaders community, diving into the real challenges and conversations that matter most to ABA practice owners and leaders. From navigating profit margins in Medicaid services to helping young adults transition into meaningful adult programs, no topic is off-limits. The discussion also unpacks the role of private equity in ABA, the constant balance between structure and flexibility in team management, and how leaders can build transparency and trust through strong communication. Whether you’re a growing ABA business owner or a seasoned leader, this episode is full of practical wisdom, thought-provoking insights, and honest reflections about the evolving ABA landscape. ✨ Episode Highlights Structure vs. Flexibility – Stephen and April share how clear communication and regular check-ins help teams thrive without the need for micromanagement. What’s an Ethical Profit Margin? – Medicaid funding is a sensitive subject. The hosts discuss how ethics and service quality go hand-in-hand when it comes to profit margins. Supporting Young Adults – Many families struggle with the transition from ABA to adult services. Stephen and April explore what meaningful adult services can and should look like. Private Equity in ABA – A hot-button issue in the field, the conversation unpacks both opportunities and risks when private equity enters the ABA space. When Admin Support Really Helps – Before you hire for admin tasks, ask the right questions. The team discusses how staff input and smart automation can make all the difference. 🔑 Key Takeaways Communication and transparency are non-negotiable. Align policies with values, not just compliance. Ethical profit means delivering quality, sustainable care. Supporting staff with the right tools builds morale and retention. Automation and feedback loops can prevent burnout. 📌 Resources from This Episode ✅ ABA Business Readiness Assessment – See where your business stands: https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ✅ Book a Consult with Stephen – Honest guidance from someone who gets it: https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page ✅ CEUs for ABA Business Leaders – Earn CEUs while strengthening your business: https://3piesquared.com/ceu ✅ ABA Start-Up Checklist – Free resource to launch your practice the right way: https://3piesquared.com/aba-checklist ✅ ABA Billing Tips – Streamline your billing process and avoid common pitfalls: https://3piesquared.com/billing-tips
Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.🗓️ Live Every Monday: We stream this podcast live in our exclusive Facebook group, where members can interact, ask questions, and share their own experiences. 🎧 New Episode Every Tuesday: We release the recorded episode on all major podcast platforms so you can catch up anytime.What to Expect Each Week:✅ The latest news and real-time updates impacting ABA practice owners—legislation, funding, best practices, and trends ✅ Tips, resources, and real-world guidance on launching, managing, and scaling your practice ✅ Stories and experiences from our own journey, and from other professionals in the field ✅ Interactive Q&A from our Facebook group membersWhether you’re dreaming of starting your own practice, just getting off the ground, or looking to take your ABA business to the next level, April and Stephen are here to help you every step of the way.👉 Join the Conversation: Be part of our supportive Facebook community and get involved in the live episodes. Your questions, comments, and stories are what make this podcast thrive!____________________________________________________________________________________If you’re ready to build a strong foundation for your ABA practice, don’t miss my ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs It’s a great way to stay ahead with practical insights.Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know your ABA business is ready to scale? Check out my free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessmentAnd if you’re looking for straightforward ABA billing tips to keep your cash flow healthy, grab my quick guide here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_TipsLet’s get your business on track—one step at a time.
🎙 Episode Title: Building Resilient ABA Businesses Part 2 This week on the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, Stephen is joined by two familiar voices from Episode 1 — Chris and Meghan. Together, they dive into the realities of burnout, the importance of preparation, and what it really takes to build an ABA business that can weather the ups and downs. From financial pitfalls to leadership blind spots, this candid conversation shines a light on both the mistakes and the solutions that help ABA leaders not only survive but thrive. 🔍 Inside the Episode: ✅ Preparation matters – Meghan explains why some new ABA practices fail before they even begin, and how having strong policies and procedures in place (her “3Ps”) can make all the difference. ✅ Credit cautionary tale – Chris opens about a line of credit horror story, and how even responsible owners can get punished without the right financial strategy. ✅ Smart money tips – Stephen shares practical financial insights to help ABA leaders navigate lines of credit and safeguard their business during tough times. ✅ The burnout reality – Meghan recalls a moment of burnout at her son’s baseball game and drops this gem: “If you’re at max capacity and looking to hire someone, you should have already hired someone.” ✅ Delegation and trust – Chris reflects on asking for help, reminding leaders that while not everyone may care about your business as much as you do, the right hires will care deeply about client outcomes. 💡 Whether you’re just starting your practice or scaling toward sustainability, this episode is full of lessons on avoiding burnout, strengthening your systems, and creating a resilient business that lasts. 📌 Resources: ✅ ABA Business Readiness Assessment – See where your business stands: https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ✅ Book a Consult with Stephen – Honest guidance from someone who gets it: https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page 💼 This episode is sponsored by Live Oak Bank Live Oak Bank offers specialized loan solutions designed for the unique needs of your ABA business. Find out more: https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/live-oak-bank 🎧 Tune in and take notes — your future self will thank you.
Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.🗓️ Live Every Monday: We stream this podcast live in our exclusive Facebook group, where members can interact, ask questions, and share their own experiences. 🎧 New Episode Every Tuesday: We release the recorded episode on all major podcast platforms so you can catch up anytime.What to Expect Each Week:✅ The latest news and real-time updates impacting ABA practice owners—legislation, funding, best practices, and trends ✅ Tips, resources, and real-world guidance on launching, managing, and scaling your practice ✅ Stories and experiences from our own journey, and from other professionals in the field ✅ Interactive Q&A from our Facebook group membersWhether you’re dreaming of starting your own practice, just getting off the ground, or looking to take your ABA business to the next level, April and Stephen are here to help you every step of the way.👉 Join the Conversation: Be part of our supportive Facebook community and get involved in the live episodes. Your questions, comments, and stories are what make this podcast thrive!____________________________________________________________________________________If you’re ready to build a strong foundation for your ABA practice, don’t miss my ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs It’s a great way to stay ahead with practical insights.Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know your ABA business is ready to scale? Check out my free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessmentAnd if you’re looking for straightforward ABA billing tips to keep your cash flow healthy, grab my quick guide here:👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_TipsLet’s get your business on track—one step at a time.
🎙 Episode Title: Building Resilient ABA Businesses Episode Summary In this candid conversation, Stephen and April sit down with Chris and Meghan to unpack one of the most pressing issues in the ABA industry: owner burnout. They explore the emotional, financial, and operational pressures that come with running an ABA business, from payment delays to the constant weight of financial responsibility. The discussion highlights strategies that help business owners not only survive but thrive, including leadership development, financial literacy, and peer collaboration. Sponsored by SILNA This episode is brought to you by SILNA Health, the ABA practice management solution designed to help business owners reduce stress, stay organized, and focus on what matters most: delivering exceptional care. Key Takeaways Burnout is real — ABA business owners face unique stressors that can affect both their well-being and their company’s success. The financial burden is heavy — understanding your numbers is non-negotiable. People over profit — building a healthy culture can relieve pressure and improve outcomes. Hire intentionally — the right leadership team can dramatically reduce owner workload. Know your metrics — financial literacy is as important as clinical expertise. Payment delays happen — a solid financial plan helps you weather the gaps. Distribute responsibility — leadership is not a solo act. Lean on peers — support and collaboration make the journey more sustainable. Plan for the tough times — strategic preparation reduces stress when challenges hit. Why You Should Listen If you are an ABA business owner feeling the weight of responsibility, or you want to avoid reaching burnout, this episode offers practical strategies, real-world insights, and a reminder that you are not alone. Resources & Links from this Episode ✅ Claim your extended trial of Silna Health: https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/silna ✅ Take the free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ✅ Book a call with Stephen for honest, personalized guidance: https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Let’s stop the guessing, and start building something sustainable, efficient, and aligned with your values.
Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.🗓️ Live Every Monday: We stream this podcast live in our exclusive Facebook group, where members can interact, ask questions, and share their own experiences. 🎧 New Episode Every Tuesday: We release the recorded episode on all major podcast platforms so you can catch up anytime.What to Expect Each Week:✅ The latest news and real-time updates impacting ABA practice owners—legislation, funding, best practices, and trends ✅ Tips, resources, and real-world guidance on launching, managing, and scaling your practice ✅ Stories and experiences from our own journey, and from other professionals in the field ✅ Interactive Q&A from our Facebook group membersWhether you’re dreaming of starting your own practice, just getting off the ground, or looking to take your ABA business to the next level, April and Stephen are here to help you every step of the way.👉 Join the Conversation: Be part of our supportive Facebook community and get involved in the live episodes. Your questions, comments, and stories are what make this podcast thrive!____________________________________________________________________________________If you’re ready to build a strong foundation for your ABA practice, don’t miss my ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs It’s a great way to stay ahead with practical insights.Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know your ABA business is ready to scale? Check out my free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessmentAnd if you’re looking for straightforward ABA billing tips to keep your cash flow healthy, grab my quick guide here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_TipsLet’s get your business on track—one step at a time.
Building ABA Teams That Thrive (Part 2): Managing ABA Business Caseloads In this follow-up episode, April and Stephen sit down once again with Maria and Caitlyn from ABYay! to continue the conversation on what it takes to lead, support, and grow successful ABA teams. This time, they explore the nitty-gritty of treatment plans, report writing, and building sustainable caseloads for BCBAs and supervisors. From clear documentation to curiosity-led feedback, Maria and Caitlyn offer a behind-the-scenes look at the systems and mindset that keep their staff supported and clients progressing. 🔍 Inside the Episode: 📝 Templates are training tools: Caitlyn shares how structured report templates and rubrics help RBTs and new staff understand treatment plans—without overcomplicating them. 🔁 Frequent check-ins matter: Supervisors often feel overwhelmed at first. Caitlyn and Maria emphasize that regular touchpoints and open conversations about workload are key. 📋 Training that actually works: April and Stephen dig into how ABYay! makes sure technicians understand treatment plans before stepping into the field. Caitlyn explains their hands-on approach to onboarding and training—it’s all about readiness, not just compliance. ⚖️ What is a "manageable" caseload? Maria shares that the average BCBA caseload at ABYay! is six. Some carry more if they can handle it ethically, but the emphasis is always on feedback, reflection, and customization. 🧠 Building reflective supervisors: Supporting supervisors means more than just telling them what’s right or wrong. Maria talks about using curiosity and self-awareness as tools for long-term professional growth. 👥 One tech per full-time case: Caitlyn explains why ABYay! assigns a single technician to 35–40 hour cases. This consistency supports stronger relationships and better outcomes for kids—and it makes supervision smoother too. 💡 Bottom line: There’s no one-size-fits-all for caseloads or staffing. But the common thread? Intentionality. This episode is a must-listen for ABA leaders who want to build not just teams, but ecosystems of support. 💼 This Episode is Sponsored by MarginKeepers Because managing people and your numbers shouldn't feel impossible. 📌 Free Resources from MarginKeepers: 📥 10 Essential Accounting Tips for Established ABA Owners → Email them with this subject line to get practical, jargon-free advice you’ll actually use. 📄 Tax Compliance Flyer → Download for free and stay ahead of issues that affect pay, compliance, and peace of mind. 📊 ABA Chart of Accounts → Request it via email to start tracking the right numbers in the right way. https://3piesquared.com/ — MarginKeepers has built resources for practices like yours: 10 Essential Accounting Tips for Established ABA Owners: Request them (email with this subject line). Practical. Actionable. No jargon. Tax Compliance Flyer: Available for free. Because you deserve peace of mind—and your staff deserves consistency. Request your free Chart of Accounts by emailing MarginKeepers.
Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.🗓️ Live Every Monday: We stream this podcast live in our exclusive Facebook group, where members can interact, ask questions, and share their own experiences. 🎧 New Episode Every Tuesday: We release the recorded episode on all major podcast platforms so you can catch up anytime.What to Expect Each Week:✅ The latest news and real-time updates impacting ABA practice owners—legislation, funding, best practices, and trends ✅ Tips, resources, and real-world guidance on launching, managing, and scaling your practice ✅ Stories and experiences from our own journey, and from other professionals in the field ✅ Interactive Q&A from our Facebook group membersWhether you’re dreaming of starting your own practice, just getting off the ground, or looking to take your ABA business to the next level, April and Stephen are here to help you every step of the way.👉 Join the Conversation: Be part of our supportive Facebook community and get involved in the live episodes. Your questions, comments, and stories are what make this podcast thrive!____________________________________________________________________________________If you’re ready to build a strong foundation for your ABA practice, don’t miss my ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs It’s a great way to stay ahead with practical insights.Wondering how to start an ABA business or how to know your ABA business is ready to scale? Check out my free ABA Business Readiness Assessment: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessmentAnd if you’re looking for straightforward ABA billing tips to keep your cash flow healthy, grab my quick guide here: 👉 https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_TipsLet’s get your business on track—one step at a time.
Building ABA Teams That Thrive: Structure, Support & Culture! Sponsored by MarginKeepers In this two-part episode, April and Stephen sit down with Maria and Caitlyn—two key leaders at ABYay!—for a grounded, practical discussion on how to truly support the people working within your ABA business. From building trust through frequent check-ins to revamping training based on staff feedback, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone managing teams in behavior analysis. Together, they share how ABYay! is doing things differently: fostering collaboration, empowering supervisors, and intentionally building a culture where everyone feels heard, connected, and supported. 🔍 Inside the Episode: 🗓 9:53 – “Little and often.” Why frequent check-ins with BCBAs and supervisors are better than the once-every-six-months approach 🏠 15:17 – In-home services challenges: when support falls through the cracks, learners suffer. April shares how this shows up in the field 🤝 18:35 – Caitlyn on creating a culture of connection through individual check-ins and bi-weekly supervisor meetings 🌍 19:33 – April shares why diversity of thought and background among BCBAs strengthens your problem-solving 🧘‍♀️ 23:58 – Maria’s people-first philosophy: why work-life balance and staff comfort build trust—and a stronger business 📚 30:54 – Caitlyn explains how ABYay! built training systems based on staff input, not just clinical norms https://3piesquared.com/ MarginKeepers has built resources for practices like yours: 10 Essential Accounting Tips for Established ABA Owners: Request them (email with this subject line). Practical. Actionable. No jargon. Tax Compliance Flyer: Available for free. Because you deserve peace of mind—and your staff deserves consistency. Request your free Chart of Accounts by emailing MarginKeepers 👉 Visit 3piesquared.com to request these free tools and start making finance one less thing to worry about. 🎧 Whether you're running a small team or a large organization, this episode will give you real, replicable strategies for building an ABA company that puts people first—and thrives because of it.
🎙 Would You Rather? Real ABA Leaders Tackle Tough ChoicesIn this fun but revealing episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, April hosts a powerhouse panel of ABA business owners—Chris, Jennifer, Mallory, Robin, and Alecia—for a special “Would You Rather?” edition. The game might be light-hearted, but the insights are anything but. From delegation and burnout to payroll panic and exit strategies, this group doesn’t hold back.With decades of combined experience and plenty of real talk, the panel shares the hard decisions ABA leaders face every day—and how to move through them with clarity, care, and courage.🔍 Inside the Episode:🤹 Robin reflects on trying to do it all: The trap of trying to juggle motherhood and business without support📞 Chris offers practical advice: Why every ABA business should start with a virtual number (and never use your personal one!)📈 Mallory and Chris weigh the risk: Fast growth vs. slow and steady—what’s sustainable when you’re managing waitlists and scaling staff?💰 Mallory draws a line in the sand: Making payroll should always be your #1 priority🔄 Jennifer chooses insurance fights over staff turnover: Why consistency matters more than convenience🍼 Alecia and April talk legacy: Sell and sabbatical, or evolve and stay in the work? What does growth really look like for a founder?😂 Chris jokes about the emotional rollercoaster of ownership: “Monday through Friday, I’m ready to sell. Saturday, I’m in love with my business again.”💡 Whether you're building your team, growing your caseload, or just wondering if you're doing it right, this episode is packed with candid advice from people who’ve been in your shoes.📌 Resources Mentioned:✅ Silna Health – Never lose time to benefit checks again. Claim your extended free trial here: https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/silna✅ ABA Business Readiness Assessment – See where your business stands: https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment✅ Book a Consult with Stephen – Honest guidance from someone who gets it: https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page🎧 Tune in and find comfort in the chaos—because you’re not doing this alone.
🎙 AI Meets ABA: The Future of Behavior Analysis with Adam Ventura In this forward-thinking episode, April and Stephen sit down with Adam Ventura, to explore the rapidly evolving intersection between artificial intelligence and applied behavior analysis (ABA). Adam Ventura, MS, BCBA, is a leader in the integration of artificial intelligence and behavior science. He is the Founder and CEO of Intraverbal AI, a company dedicated to transforming applied behavior analysis (ABA) through AI-powered tools that support ethical decision-making, supervision, and clinical efficiency. From concerns about data security to philosophical shifts in how we define "expertise," this conversation is packed with thoughtful insight for anyone navigating the future of ABA. Together, they dig into the risks, possibilities, and ethics of integrating AI into clinical workflows—and what this tech revolution could mean for RBTs, BCBAs, and most importantly, clients. 🔍 Inside the Episode: 🧠 Stephen voices concerns about over-reliance on AI: What happens to professional judgment when we let machines make decisions? 📚 Adam compares ABA to education: We’re moving from knowing the right answers to learning how to ask the right questions. 🔐 A frank discussion on HIPAA, data privacy, and why clinicians need safe AI systems 👏 April praises the field: ABA leaders are having grown-up conversations about AI—and it’s brilliant to see. 🚫 Adam calls out the negative reinforcement embedded in session notes: We should remove the punishment contingencies around data collection and admin work. 🔮 A look ahead: Adam shares his vision for AI in ABA, and how it could streamline services without sacrificing ethics or outcomes 💡 Whether you're excited about AI or skeptical of it, this episode will challenge your assumptions and leave you with a clearer picture of where the field is headed. 📌 Resources Mentioned: ✅ Intraverbal AI – Explore Adam's company and tools designed to support ABA professionals ✅ Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment ✅ ABA Billing Tips ✅ Book a Free Consult with Stephen ✅ ABA Start-Up Checklist 🎧 Listen in and reimagine the future of ABA—with both humans and machines in mind.
loading
Comments