Beyond The Science Podcast

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

Millions of children struggle with feeding disorders and food insecurity, yet these issues often go unnoticed in schools and healthcare settings.In this compelling episode, Dr. Meara McMahon, a leading expert in pediatric feeding therapy, breaks down why some kids refuse food, how medical and behavioral factors intertwine, and why traditional advice like “they’ll grow out of it” can be dangerously wrong.We explore the role of behavior analysts (BCBAs) in tackling these challenges, the gaps in school nutrition programs, and practical solutions for parents and educators. Plus, we discuss how public policies can better support children with complex feeding needs.If you're a parent, teacher, or healthcare professional, this conversation will change how you think about kids and food.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:02 Meet Dr. Meara McMahon02:30 Journey into feeding therapy05:34 Moving to Georgia & career growth06:44 Why feeding is so complex09:43 Advice for parents facing feeding issues11:05 Feeding challenges in schools14:13 Food insecurity’s impact on children18:01 Parent training in feeding therapy20:09 Feeding challenges in older kids24:30 School nutrition & the National School Lunch Program28:12 How can BCBAs help with feeding issues30:43 Breaking into public health35:00 Straight Talk with Joe: Self-care & hiking38:05 The importance of working at GABA43:06 The “Asian Glow” story46:24 Where to connect with Dr. Meara McMahon

In this powerful Orlando panel discussion, top Black women leaders in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) share their journeys, challenges, and bold innovations reshaping the field. From breaking barriers in leadership to navigating the evolving landscape of DEI, they dive into what it takes to create lasting impact.🔥 Key Topics:✅ The secrets to effective leadership in ABA✅ How to stay innovative in a changing industry✅ Tackling high turnover & building strong teams✅ Why authenticity is the key to successDon’t miss this inspiring and insightful conversation—watch now and level up your leadership game! 🎥✨ Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:48 Welcome to the Thought Exchange Panel02:06 Introduction to Panelist05:29 Key experiences that shaped their careers in ABA11:06 What makes an effective leader?18:51 Staying innovative in the field of ABA24:13 Creating lasting impact and meaningful careers32:32 Using ABA principles in leadership35:46 Addressing high turnover rates in ABA41:15 The importance of company culture and alignment

In this episode, live from Miami, behavior analysis expert Adam Ventura shares his remarkable journey - from building a successful ABA therapy company to pivoting into the world of AI.Discover how a family tragedy led Ventura to reevaluate his priorities and find the perfect balance between professional success and personal relationships.Dive into Ventura's insights on the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI into ABA, including his innovative Intraverbal AI platform designed to enhance the assessment process and transform education. Learn about the upcoming Shaping AI conference, where Ventura and other industry leaders will shape the future of behavior analysis and technology.This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of ABA, entrepreneurship, and the cutting edge of artificial intelligence. Don't miss this inspiring story of personal growth and professional innovation. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:32 Live from Miami with Adam Ventura01:39 Adam's 20-year journey in behavior analysis03:13 Prioritizing family over business05:51 The cost of hyper-focusing on work07:54 Realizing that true legacy is in family, not business10:37 Career journey, ABA, and AI15:30 The importance of having a partner as an entrepreneur18:24 Skepticism & pushback on AI in ABA space23:28 The challenge of defining humanity in the AI era26:51 AI and the future of ABA30:15 Intraverbal AI: A game-changing tool for behavior analysts34:45 DeepSeek and competing with OpenAI38:06 How Intraverbal AI enhances, not replaces, behavior analysts43:38 Developing future features of Intraverbal AI45:48 The Shaping AI Conference: The future of ABA and AI50:16 Balancing career, fatherhood, and personal growth54:07 Sacrificing and repairing family relationships58:05 The deep need for parental validation1:02:24 Biggest entrepreneurial wins and losses1:05:12 The future of AI in education and ABA training1:07:35 Do business owners check employee social media?

Autistic individuals are 7X more likely to encounter police but are officers prepared?In this episode, we dive into the urgent need for autism training in law enforcement with Dr. Lyndsy Coffield, a BCBA specializing in police education. From real ride-alongs to key de-escalation tactics, we reveal gaps in police training and their impact on neurodiverse individuals.- Why are so many police interactions with autistic individuals going wrong?- What can officers do differently to avoid tragic misunderstandings?- How can parents & caregivers help prepare for potential encounters?Learn how small changes in awareness and training can prevent life-altering misunderstandings and improve interactions between law enforcement and the autism community. If you care about safer communities, better police training, and protecting neurodiverse individuals, don't miss this powerful conversation.Timestamps:00:37 Introduction to Dr. Lyndsy Cofield01:47 The High Interaction Rate Between Autism & Law Enforcement02:29 Personal Experiences with Law Enforcement & Autism04:38 Dr. Lyndsy’s Background and Career Journey07:59 Self-Defense for Women & Fire Arm Training09:46 Realizing the Need for Autism Training in Police Work11:35 Ride-Along Experience & Understanding Officer Perspective14:43 Acknowledging the Challenges of Law Enforcement16:01 What Bad ABA Looks Like17:20 How BCBAs Can Get Involved in Police Training20:58 Key Lessons Learned in the Field22:03 The Importance of Canine Scent Kits for Missing Individuals25:34 Apollo Behavior’s Community Initiatives & Police Partnerships30:38 What ABA & Policing Can Learn from Each Other33:30 Ideas for Improving Police Training on Autism34:53 Exposing First Responders to Autistic Individuals39:53 Favorite Vacation Spot & College Football Rivalry43:51 Closing Thoughts & Shout Out to Apollo Behavior

In this episode, we dive into the remarkable story of Kevin, a speech-language pathologist who's using his unique blend of music, humor, and creativity to transform the lives of his clients. From his unexpected career transition to his pioneering work as a sensory-friendly barber, Kevin's passion and dedication shine through, inspiring us all. Hear how he's navigating the challenges of being a black male therapist in a predominantly white field, and learn about his powerful collaborations with ABA therapists to provide holistic care. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of speech therapy, music, and the power of diverse perspectives. Get ready to be entertained, informed, and empowered by the inspiring journey of the "Singing SLP." Timestamps: 08:30 Kevin’s journey into speech and language pathology 12:41 Taking a break and finding purpose 14:39 Mentorship and its impact on career growth 17:25 Becoming the Singing SLP: Music and therapy 24:22 Sensory-friendly haircuts for neurodiverse children 30:56 Collaboration between SLP and ABA 33:53 The importance of speech therapy 36:06 The main differences between ABA and SLP 40:20 Collaboration and finding the middle ground with EIPs 43:17 Challenges of being a black male therapist in a predominantly white field 48:58 Learning from criticism and personal growth 53:20 Kevin’s vision for the future