Beyond The Science Podcast

What happens when three ABA leaders turn their vision into a movement?Jeron Trotman, Joseph Adams, and Darius Cooper open up about how they built Beyond the Science into one of the most impactful voices in behavior analysis. They share the highs of launching new ventures, from group homes to Sapphire AI, and the hidden struggles that come with success: family sacrifices, shifting friendships, and staying grounded while leading a growing community.🎧 Watch now their honest, inspiring look at brotherhood, ambition, and the real cost of chasing purpose in ABA and beyond. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:48 Welcome Back to Beyond the Science Podcast01:21 Year in Review & New Ventures02:57 From Clinician to CEO06:23 Journey to Entrepreneurship08:13 The Power of Community10:55 Behind the Scenes of BNB Summit12:27 Civil Discourse and Thought Exchange15:26 Block Party & Fellowship Moments17:48 Residential Services Vision20:29 Homelessness and the Autism Spectrum22:23 Challenges of Starting Group Homes24:56 Introducing Sapphire AI31:14 What Makes Sapphire Different35:14 BACB ACE Provider Changes37:32 Special Education Funding Cuts41:51 BCBA at Sea 202743:31 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey45:53 Brotherhood & Mental Health54:32 The Cost of Success55:29 Family Sacrifices, Balance & Fatherhood1:08:40 Closing Thoughts

What happens when a punk-rock rebel becomes one of ABA’s most thought-provoking voices?At FABA 2025, Dr. Shane Spiker brings raw honesty and insight to the world of behavior science, challenging outdated norms, breaking taboos around sex education and ethics, and calling for a more human, self-reflective approach to ABA. From Humble Behaviorism to open mentorship, Dr. Shane shows why questioning the system sparks real change.🎧 Tune in to hear Dr. Spiker unfiltered and see why his vision could reshape the future of behavior analysis. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:35 Meet Dr. Shane Spiker01:42 Why FABA Matters in Florida03:03 Favorite Conference Topics04:17 Treating Inappropriate Sexual Behaviors07:42 Openness & Approachability08:27 His Most Impactful Publications10:28 Teaching Critical Thinking13:24 Favorite College Football Team14:50 Why We Do What We Do Podcast16:37 New Books and Projects17:34 His Go-To Conference Drink18:06 ABA in the Next 10 Years20:11 Where to Find Shane

What to do when mealtime isn’t just stressful but becomes a matter of survival?Live from FABA 2025, Dr. Meeta Patel takes us inside the world of pediatric feeding disorders. She shares why parent involvement is the single most important factor for success, how home-based treatment changes everything, and why some common beliefs about feeding, like “escape extinction,” are misunderstood. From reducing tube dependency to collaborating with medical teams, Dr. Patel reveals practical insights, research challenges, and new breakthroughs that are shaping the future of feeding disorder treatment.Hit play to learn more about Dr Patel's insights on Pediatric Feeding Breakthroughs Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:39 Welcome & FABA 45th anniversary intro01:04 Meeta Patel, expert on pediatric feeding disorders02:08 Why focus on the home environment02:59 What pediatric feeding disorders look like03:53 Parent involvement as the key to success05:03 Takeaways from recent FABA presentation08:09 Interdisciplinary collaboration:10:18 Evolution of research & literature13:20 Addressing myths around escape extinction16:42 When and why to refer patients out19:12 Reducing tube dependency 21:32 Role of gut health in treatment 24:53 Fun fact: from fashion to behavior analysis25:37 Closing reflections and contact

What really counts as a restraint and why does it matter?Recorded live at the FABA Conference 2025, Dr. Merrill Winston breaks down the thin line between physical prompting and restraint, the hidden dangers of misaligned motivations, and why focusing on “restraint reduction” misses the bigger picture. With over 25 years of experience as an expert witness and crisis management trainer, he shares what schools, parents, and even law enforcement often misunderstand.Press play and learn why restraint isn’t the enemy and what the real focus should be. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:28 Welcoming Dr. Merrill Winston01:45 Physical restraint vs. physical prompting04:20 When are prompts turning into restraints07:20 The truth about misaligned motivations10:05 Informed consent vs. cooperation from parents13:16 Malice, incompetence & real goal15:44 How Dr. Winston got into crisis management21:23 Lessons from 25 years of restraint cases23:34 Police, parents, and the realities of restraint29:06 Advice for young professionals in the field

What happens when some of the most accomplished Black men in Applied Behavior Analysis come together on one stage? You get raw honesty, inspiring stories, and a powerful vision for the future of the field.From breaking barriers in education, sports, and mental health to tackling cultural competence, financial literacy, and mentorship, this episode goes far beyond autism and classrooms. These leaders share pivotal career moments, the importance of trust and hope, and why representation matters for the next generation.Hit play and discover how these leaders are reshaping ABA, inspiring the next generation, and proving that representation changes everything.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:45 Welcome & podcast journey so far02:57 Introducing guests and their achievements08:00 Pivotal moments of leadership journeys11:31 How leadership in ABA has shifted over time14:23 Audience Q&A: Passing knowledge to children17:40 Mentorship and inspiring the next generation20:25 Financial literacy and family education23:01 Challenges & future of ABA service27:54 Community perspectives and testimonies30:25 Cultural competences in ABA36:38 Code-switching and staying authentic41:59 Building trust, hope, and measurable results43:22 Advice for young behavior analysts48:30 Navigating cultural nuances without DEI mandates54:30 Publishing research and creating ABA literature59:33 Should you pursue a doctorate?1:01:37 Closing reflections

What happens when poetry, culture, and science collide? This episode reveals the story behind Black Male BCBA Day and the movement transforming the field of behavior analysis. You’ll hear powerful insights on mentorship, representation, and overcoming challenges as the first Black male BCBAs. From brotherhood to everyday lessons, it’s a look at how breaking barriers is reshaping the future of ABA.Don’t miss it—hit play and join the movement. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:30 Poetry performance01:10 Meet Andre Anderson03:10 Personal connections, support, and recognition05:07 Excitement about the summit08:22 Ben Crump’s message of support10:10 Reflections on mentorship & inspiration12:20 Origins of Black Male BCBA Day17:59 Statistics on representation in ABA18:14 Grandmother’s influence, poetry, and ABA24:00 Challenges as the first Black male BCBA in Tennessee27:43 Advice for RBTs entering the field30:45 Function-based interventions & friendships35:04 Applying ABA principles in marriage & family life36:53 Blending poetry, hip hop, and behavioral science39:05 Quick-fire questions with Andre40:21 Message for young professionals in ABA42:27 Straight talk on fatherhood & raising daughters45:41 Gratitude and legacy in ABA47:39 Closing remarks

What happens when occupational therapy, ABA, and lived experience collide? In this episode, Michelle shares her powerful journey from nursing school dropout to OT and BCBA, her viral TikTok success, and why she believes collaboration, not silos, will change the future of therapy.From decoding proprioception and sensory systems to tackling the remote vs. in-person BCBA debate, representation in the field, and raising kids with ADHD, this conversation is raw, inspiring, and packed with insights you won’t hear anywhere else. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:42 Meet Michelle01:41 From nursing to OT to ABA04:26 Why OT + ABA credentials matter06:38 Gaps in OT training08:18 Multidisciplinary teamwork challenges10:12 Sensory and neurological lens in ABA11:17 Proprioception made simple13:58 Connecting OT & ABA15:23 Finding each child’s “formula”16:36 Teaching vs. direct treatment17:52 Going viral on TikTok19:04 RBT support & telehealth debate20:34 Remote vs. in-person BCBA23:21 Limits of medical model24:15 Finding the right balance25:25 Lightning round: Q&A27:06 Beyond the “four functions” of behavior28:02 True cross-discipline collaborations31:11 Representation & authenticity33:35 Advice for queer and neuro-divergent pros35:02 Building trust with families37:19 Study journal & exam prep38:09 ADHD: boys vs. girls40:20 Life outside ABA44:18 Final message to share45:19 Where to find Michelle online

From the Bronx to the C-Suite, this is the remarkable journey of a woman who refused to be defined by limits.In this inspiring conversation, you’ll hear how she rose from special education teacher to become the first Black woman in ABA’s C-suite, leading with passion, data, and grit. She shares the personal story that brought her to Applied Behavior Analysis, the challenges she’s overcome, and the leadership strategies driving real change in the field.Whether you’re in ABA, leadership, or just love stories of resilience and impact, this episode will motivate you to break barriers of your own. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:33 Meet Quatiba Davis03:06 How her daughter’s stroke led her to ABA07:33 Discovering the power of Applied Behavior Analysis08:30 Role as Chief Clinical Officer09:33 Overcoming challenges as a Black woman in a C-suite role18:07 How her Bronx upbringing shaped her career21:03 Advice for Black women entering corporate leadership23:23 Staying grounded under high responsibility29:04 The sponsor who changed her life32:13 The Importance of mentorship38:22 Parenting, independence, and supporting her daughter42:28 Why there are so few Black women in ABA leadership45:15 Diversity, equity, and inclusion in ABA today48:29 Final advice for women in leadership

Big announcements, big names, and even bigger plans!Get an inside look at the upcoming BNBA Summit – from powerhouse keynote speakers and game‑changing panels to scholarships, networking mixers, and even a three‑on‑three basketball tournament with a $500 prize! The hosts share why this year’s event is bigger than ever, how it’s creating space for Black men and allies in ABA, and what exciting sessions you can’t afford to miss. If you want inspiration, connection, and a front‑row seat to the future of ABA, this is the episode you’ll want to watch. Timestamps:02:03 Introduction to BNBA Summit and its mission03:10 Excitement about networking and events04:17 Keynote speakers and session highlights07:17 Friday schedule: scholarships and the 3‑on‑3 tournament09:04 Saturday schedule: speaker and panels12:12 Entrepreneurship panel and block party13:16 Networking mixer and sponsors mentioned14:30 Final thoughts and excitement for the summit

Ever wondered what it really takes to start a group home from scratch?In this powerful episode, Arthur Hairston breaks down his journey from working in direct care to building a thriving, sustainable group home business. He opens up about the $250K startup costs no one talks about, the early chaos of working with at-risk youth, and how a single pivot changed everything.Tune in for real talk—and subscribe for more on ABA, entrepreneurship, and purpose-driven leadership. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:50 Meet Arthur Hairston01:55 Arthur’s Warm Welcome & Shutout03:02 From Teaching to Group Homes06:02 At-Risk Youth & Group Home Community08:04 Different Types of Group Homes09:55 Hiring & Staffing Realities10:40 Opening a Group Home12:46 Running a Group Home15:26 Unexpected Challenges: Parental Rights & Approvals19:08 Working with Your Spouse22:25 Being a Black Entrepreneur in ABA25:25 Balancing Business & Fatherhood27:56 Curiosity & Asking Questions Publicly29:34 The Importance of Entrepreneurial Spirit32:50 Passing Down the Game34:22 Knowledge Sharing & the BNBA Summit37:43 Ignorant Purchases & Real Estate Dreams41:04 Where to Connect with Arthur

What does it take to change a field from the inside out? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Amanda Kelly, better known as BehaviorBabe, to explore her journey from grassroots advocacy to influencing national autism policy.Amanda shares how she built a movement through free resources, tackled ethical challenges in ABA, and helped pass landmark legislation in two states—all while staying grounded in her purpose.From social media backlash to the launch of a revolutionary residential campus, this is a masterclass in impact, integrity, and leadership. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:26 Highlights from the Adult Services Panel01:49 Launch of Unum Place Residential Campus02:46 The Origin of “BehaviorBabe”05:35 What Ethical ABA Looks Like Today07:00 The Biggest Misconceptions in ABA08:12 From Advocacy to Legislation11:16 Challenges in Hawaii Advocacy Work13:22 Social Media's Role in ABA and Advocacy16:30 What Keeps Amanda Motivated & Grounded18:11 Advice to Her Younger Self20:16 Legacy and Long-Term Vision21:37 Final Fun Question: What’s on Your Playlist?

What if one platform could completely transform how ABA care is delivered?In this episode, we sit down with Smith Anderson and Emily McCullough from Motivity, the fast-growing platform that's changing how clinicians deliver care. From smart scheduling to real-time insights, they share how Motivity evolved from a data tool into a powerful all-in-one solution—and why their mission is all about empowering providers, supporting families, and transforming outcomes.Whether you're a clinician, founder, or ABA advocate, this episode will leave you inspired—and maybe even rethinking what's possible. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:25 Meet Smith Anderson & Emily McCullough01:10 How Motivity got started05:04 From data tool to full clinical platform07:54 Partnering with Kalmanak & launching PM09:14 Scaling without losing quality10:04 Smart scheduling & routing features12:05 Mission-driven hiring and growth15:05 What new investment means for Motivity17:50 Staying focused on clinical outcomes20:00 Introducing “Acuity”21:27 Fun facts about the team24:23 Book & podcast recommendations25:49 How ABA has evolved28:59 Impact of real-time data access30:28 Future of connected care32:23 Ethical use of AI in ABA35:59 Leadership at Motivity38:20 Building intentional culture40:27 What motivates the team44:09 Advice for ABA professionals

What does it really take to transform autism care from the inside out? In this powerful live episode from the 2025 Autism Partnership Foundation Conference, APF leaders reveal how they’re reshaping ABA through accessible training, compassionate intervention, and bold leadership. Learn why free RBT education is changing lives, how the field is rediscovering its roots, and what ethical ABA looks like today. Subscribe for more conversations that drive impact. Timestamps:00:15 Live from the APF Conference01:30 APF’s Evolving Mission03:58 Reaching a Wider Audience05:16 The Push for Quality Intervention08:03 Shifts in the Field of ABA11:55 Challenges in Training & Access12:22 Can AI Help the Field?14:42 Leadership at APF18:32 Leadership Books to Recommend19:26 One-Word APF Legacy Goals21:01 Wrap-Up & Reflections

Live from APF 2025, autism advocate and sex educator Amy Gravino delivers an unfiltered, powerful conversation about dating, sexuality, and life as an autistic adult. From being bullied as a child to becoming a leading voice for neurodivergent women, Amy shares her personal journey with raw honesty and sharp wit. She opens up about the emotional toll of relationships, the heartbreak of being misunderstood, and the frustrating gaps in support that autistic adults continue to face. With real-world insights and humor, Amy challenges outdated stereotypes, breaks down why traditional sex education fails the autism community, and offers a new path forward — one rooted in inclusion, consent, and authentic connection. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:22 Live at APF 2025: Meet Amy Gravino  01:28 Amy’s Diagnosis and Early Advocacy04:41 Asperger’s vs Autism: What’s Changed?Amy explains the historical background and controversies around the Asperger’s label.06:35 Why the Autism Spectrum Label Matters07:33 What Professionals Should Do Differently09:25 Autism, Sexuality & Memoir10:41 A Broken Adult Services System12:53 Why Adults with Autism Are Forgotten15:43 Sex Education for Autistic Adults17:14 The Rutgers Center & Community Integration18:06 Dating as an Autistic Female20:09 How to Connect with Amy

Live from the APF Conference, Van Jones joins us for a brief but powerful conversation on the politicization of science, autism myths, and the fallout from COVID-19. He shares candid thoughts on RFK Jr.'s controversial claims, the real impact on young people, and why we can't afford to ignore these conversations. Honest, urgent, and unfiltered—this is one you don’t want to miss. Timestamps:00:00 Into00:21 Van Jones Live from the APF Conference00:43 COVID & Credibility of Science03:26 RFK Jr., Autism, & Misinformation04:26 The Danger of Stereotyping Autism05:05 Talent on the Spectrum05:46 Final Reflections & What Keeps Van Going

What does it really take to become a skilled, ethical, and confident behavior analyst today? In this special President’s Corner episode of Beyond the Science, host Jeron Trotman is joined by Dr. Steven Eversole, founder of Behavior Development Solutions, and research librarian Dr. Nicole Bank for an honest and inspiring conversation about the future of ABA. They dive into why foundational training matters more than ever, how research literacy shapes real-world success, and what’s missing from the way many practitioners are trained today. From the early days of ABA’s academic roots to today’s fast-growing and sometimes chaotic landscape, the episode explores how we can build a stronger, more informed field—starting with just one article, one journal club, or one meaningful conversation at a time.  Tune in now and rediscover what it means to be a behavior analyst in today’s world. Timestamps:00:00 – Cold Open & Inside JokeBehind-the-scenes banter, the “Caddy Story,” and warming up before the show. 01:35 Guest Introductions05:33 Why ABA Training Must Include Research Literacy09:40 Foundations of Strong ABA Training12:15 Real-World Examples of Good vs. Poor Training16:44 Making Research Engaging & Accessible19:39 Barriers to Research Literacy in ABA23:44 Practical Strategies to Stay Engaged with Literature25:51 BDS Journal Club & Collaborative Learning29:27 Healthy Disagreements in Research Discussion34:09 How to Build a Culture of Research in Organizations39:30 Conference Posters for Building Research Engagement41:17 The State of the Field: Where Are We Now?51:53 Final Advice for Early-Career BCBAs

What happens when AI meets the science of behavior?In this episode, we sit down with Adam Ventura, Founder of Intraverbal AI and a driving force behind tech innovation in ABA, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming clinical practice, assessments, and the future of the field.From ethical dilemmas and HIPAA compliance to the lack of civil discourse and growing divides in behavior analysis, Adam doesn't hold back. He shares insights from global conferences, explains how his platform leverages AI to support evidence-based care, and makes a powerful case for why behavior analysts must shape AI—before it shapes them.Whether you're excited or skeptical about tech in ABA, this is the conversation you can't miss.Timestamps:00:27 Adam Ventura at the Texas ABA Conference.01:17 AI & ABA Around the World03:19 Highlights from the First Shaping AI Summit05:33 Why Behavior Analysts Must Shape AI Now11:47 Need for Academic Disagreement14:58 Civil Discourse Platform Announcement16:59 Intraverbal AI for Research & Building Clinical Programs21:58 Why Is Intraverbal AI Better Than Other LLMs27:05 How Students Should Use AI32:55 HIPAA Compliance and Client Privacy in AI39:36 State of the ABA Field: What Needs to Change?47:42 What’s Next for Intraverbal AI?50:06 Fatherhood & Aligning Family Values

Live from Savannah State University!Join us for a powerful, inspiring celebration of 20 years of SSU’s pioneering Behavior Analysis program — the first and only undergraduate Behavior Analysis program at an HBCU in the country!In this special live episode, we dive deep into how SSU is building future leaders, breaking barriers, and making history. You’ll hear directly from the President of Savannah State, the visionary founder of the Behavior Analysis program Dr. Katherine Stewart, passionate students, alumni making an impact, and advocates who are shaping the next generation of behavior analysts.We talk about why diversity in Behavior Analysis matters now more than ever, how SSU students are being equipped to lead real change in their communities, and the powerful legacy being built on campus today.Expect real stories, real advice, a lot of laughs, some trivia games (with prizes!), and unforgettable moments of wisdom, empowerment, and pride.Big energy. Real impact. History in the making — live from SSU!Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:29 Live from Savannah State University03:20 Celebrating 20 Years of Behavior Analysis program06:24 Historic Legacy of Savannah State08:10 President’s Message to the Audience10:26 Reflections After President's Visit11:16 Dr. Katherine Stewart on Founding the ABA Program14:57 Vision for the Next 20 Years18:03 Dr. Katherine’s Message to the Audience18:58 Fun Student Trivia and Prizes22:22 Students Speak: Why They Chose ABA28:14 Why study at Savannah State University30:27 Where Students See Themselves in Next 5 Years33:29 Expanding ABA into New Fields35:50 Fun Student Trivia and Prizes38:11 Marquis Jacobs and Her Behavior Analysis Journey41:27 The Impact Students Can Make in Next 5 Years45:20 Why Diversity in ABA Matters More Than Ever48:17 Student Q & A1:08:03 Classes That Focus on Networking1:09:45 Student Sharing Her Experience with ABA1:12:18 Alumni Memories & Advice to Students1:21:15 Commitment to Growth and Community1:24:16 Final Thoughts

Join us for an unfiltered, emotional, and refreshingly honest conversation with three Registered Behavior Technicians. In this groundbreaking episode, RBTs reveal the untold truth about what it’s really like working on the front lines of ABA therapy—from burnout and low pay to joy, purpose, and everything in between.Whether you’re an RBT, BCBA, or someone curious about the field, this episode will challenge your perspective and move you deeplyDiscover:Why many RBTs feel invisible, undervalued, and underpaidShocking behind-the-scenes moments that’ll make you laugh and cryThe real emotional cost—and reward—of this workPowerful insights on burnout, passion, and staying in the fieldWhat every BCBA needs to hear from their RBTsThis episode is 100% real, unscripted, and guaranteed to change how you see ABA—and the people who make it happen. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:40 Special guests & fun facts about them03:35 April’s journey into ABA and motherhood07:10 Lily’s story: early intervention and becoming an RBT09:04 Rob’s path from undergrad to crisis unit12:09 A day in the life of an RBT17:48 The burnout and wanting to quit27:45 Dear BCBA, I wish you knew21:44 Clients with more challenging behaviors36:03 RBT Conference announcement and why it matters39:58 Community, visibility, and raising RBT voices44:27 Real talk: pay rates, PTO, and cancelations46:31 Ideas to fix client cancelation challenges56:40 The future of the field: retention and respect59:03 Wildest things kids have ever said1:02:44 Rapid-fire game1:03:30 Off the clock: love languages1:06:06 Final advice for new RBTs

🎙️ Live from APBS 2025!We’re coming to you straight from the Innovation Zone at APBS 2025 with a laid-back, honest recap of everything that went down. From favorite sessions and unexpected interviews to real talk about collaboration, equity, and what’s next in behavior support—we’re covering it all.You’ll hear audience takeaways, behind-the-scenes moments, and even the big reveal of the 3K Academy. Whether you made it to the conference or not, this episode gives you a front-row seat to the energy, connection, and ideas that made APBS 2025 one to remember.Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:31 Live from the APBS Innovation Zone01:21 Conference Highlights and Standout Interviews03:28 Audience Reflections on the Conference06:42 Openness and Connection at APBS08:40 What Would You Change About Behavior Support?13:13 Why You Should Attend the APBS Conference15:02 Announcing 3K Academy in Atlanta17:53 Looking Ahead to APBS 2026 in Minneapolis19:09 The Conference Theme Song