In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe catch up on some MAJOR life events for Joe and discuss what articles to read for October.

Check out this FOLDER to access the articles mentioned and join us for our recording on October 10th at 12pm Est!

*Don't have a link to join us? Email [email protected] to receive it!

AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM:

Meeting Purpose

Catch up on personal updates and plan for upcoming Do Better podcast episodes.

Key Takeaways

• Joe has a newborn son and started a new job as a BCBA consultant in public schools
• Next podcast (Oct 10) will discuss "expertise" in ABA, with pre-selected articles for listeners
• Do Better Collective celebrating 5th birthday in November; planning Rejected Conference and retreat
• Megan has extensive travel/speaking schedule through end of 2025

Personal Updates - Joe

• New son born August 6th (premature, brief NICU stay)
• Started new job as BCBA consultant in public schools
• Enjoying balancing new baby and job, appreciating school schedule
• Learning to adapt consulting style to different school cultures

Do Better Collective Updates

• 5th birthday celebration on November 15th, 2025
• Planning second Rejected Conference (speakers confirmed)
• February 2026 retreat being organized
• Megan's upcoming travel/speaking:

October Podcast Plans

• Topic: Defining "expertise" in ABA
• Pre-selected articles for discussion:
• Considering opening discussion to public participants

BACB ACE Instructor Requirements Discussion

• New rules effective July 2026:
• Concerns about potential limitations on CE opportunities
• Lack of clear rationale or research basis for new requirements

Parenting Observations

• Joe enjoying newborn phase, noticing rapid changes in older children
• Discussion on children adopting new slang/trends (e.g. "six seven" meme)
• Importance of maternity/paternity leave

Join Dr. Megan and Special Guest, Nicole Parks, as they discuss the topics keeping them at a night in the field of behavior analysis.

Meeting Purpose

To discuss current issues keeping behavior analysts "up at night" and explore potential solutions in the field of ABA.

Key Takeaways

• Licensure requirements for behavior analysts across states are inconsistent and often unclear, causing confusion and challenges for practitioners.
• RBT turnover remains a significant issue in ABA, with no clear solutions despite ongoing discussions and attempts to improve company culture.
• There's a growing divide between academic and practitioner expertise in the field, leading to debates about the definition of an "expert" in ABA.

State Licensure Challenges

• Inconsistent interpretation of licensure requirements across states
• Lack of clear guidance from regulatory boards on specific situations (e.g., providing supervision across state lines)
• Need for a comprehensive resource outlining state-by-state licensure requirements
• Challenges with reciprocal licensing and the cost/time involved in obtaining multiple state licenses

RBT Turnover and Retention

• Ongoing issue with high turnover rates among Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs)
• Difficulty balancing professional expectations with entry-level position realities
• Challenges in creating a sustainable business model while providing adequate support and growth opportunities for RBTs
• Need for better screening tools to identify candidates well-suited for the unique demands of RBT positions

Defining Expertise in ABA

• Growing divide between academic and practitioner perspectives on expertise
• Recent publications emphasizing journal articles and academic credentials as primary indicators of expertise
• Practitioners feeling undervalued despite extensive real-world experience
• Need for a more inclusive definition of expertise that recognizes both academic and practical contributions to the field

In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe interview Jerrod Zertuche about Kind Extinction and the upcoming webinar he is conducting on August 27th. Check it out to learn more!

AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM:

Meeting Purpose

Live recording of the Do Better Podcast featuring guest Jerrod Zertuche discussing kind extinction and his unique experience in behavior analysis.

Key Takeaways

- Kind extinction incorporates validation and co-regulation into behavioral interventions, avoiding traditional extinction bursts - Mental rehearsal and somatic awareness can help practitioners become more comfortable with empathetic, validating approaches

- There's a need to shift ABA culture away from "enforcer" mentality toward more compassionate, connection-based practices

- Jared will be conducting a webinar on kind extinction for Do Better Collective on August 27th

Introduction to Kind Extinction

- Developed by Tarbox & Tarbox (2023) to incorporate validation of emotional experiences without reinforcing problem behaviors

- Allows practitioners to provide emotional support during challenging moments, rather than ignoring clients

- Shown to produce gradual behavior reduction without extinction bursts in initial research

Cognitive Dissonance in Shifting ABA Practices

- Many practitioners experience discomfort transitioning from "enforcer" role to more empathetic approaches

- Mental rehearsal and somatic awareness exercises can help build comfort with new techniques

- Shift requires vulnerability and relinquishing some control, which can feel uncomfortable initially

Benefits of Kind Extinction

- Improves social validity

- feels better for clients, families, and practitioners

- Promotes faster de-escalation of challenging behaviors

- Aligns with modern neuroscience on co-regulation and emotional support

- Cultivates safety and connection, enhancing learning potential

Challenges in ABA Culture Shift

- Many practitioners conditioned to value data/procedures over empathy

- Discomfort with vulnerability required for validation/empathy - Easier to fall back on traditional extinction despite limited evidence base

- Need for patience and understanding during transition period

Mental Rehearsal Training

- Jared plans to incorporate guided meditations and mental rehearsal in upcoming webinar

- Evidence shows mental practice improves skill acquisition (e.g. musicians, nurses)

- Can help practitioners become more fluent in kind extinction techniques

In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe catch up on a few different topics.

AI NOTES FROM FATHOM:
Meeting Purpose

Monthly recording of the Do Better podcast, discussing recent experiences and upcoming plans.

Key Takeaways

• Megan shared insights from recent training in China/Vietnam on emotional regulation and cultural differences
• Plans for July podcast to feature Jared discussing kind extinction and visualization techniques
• Agreed to compile a list of 5 key articles to read before August, including AI ethics papers
• Anticipating CASP's AI guidelines release, expected in July

Recent International Training Experiences

• Megan conducted training on natural environment teaching in China and Vietnam
• Many questions revolved around emotional regulation and psychological flexibility
• Cultural differences observed in handling children's emotions (e.g., ignoring crying)
• Emphasized importance of connection, relationships, and emotional regulation as foundational skills

Upcoming Podcast Plans

• July: Hoping to feature Jared discussing kind extinction
• August: Jared to present on kind extinction and visualization techniques for skill fluency
• Discussed compiling a list of 5 key articles for listeners to read before August

AI in ABA

• Megan developing "dance method" for critical use of AI responses
• Mentioned Cox & Jennings Ethics in AI article
• Joe suggested "Frontiers of Innovation: Ethical Challenges of Artificial Intelligence and Startups" article
• Anticipating CASP's AI guidelines release, expected in July

In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe let the wheel decide their topic and Spring Cleaning was the winner. What behavioral strategies do you use to influence your Spring Cleaning Behavior? Who is better at spring cleaning, Megan or Joe? Tune in to find out!

FATHOM AI SUMMARY

Meeting Purpose

Record a live episode of the Do Better podcast discussing spring cleaning strategies.

Key Takeaways

- Spring cleaning can be approached in manageable steps, starting with small tasks to build momentum

- Digital spring cleaning (organizing files, emails, cloud storage) is an important but often overlooked area

- Setting clear rules and systems for donating/selling items can make the process smoother

- Finding motivation and time for decluttering remains challenging for many people

Topics

Spring Cleaning Strategies

- Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to build momentum

- Start with easy tasks like organizing digital files or decluttering one shelf at a time

- Set clear rules for what to keep, sell, or donate (e.g. only try to sell items worth $20+)

- Coordinate with partners/family members to tackle shared spaces

- Use small time gaps (5-10 minutes) to make incremental progress

Challenges in Decluttering

- Difficulty parting with books, even if unread

- Hesitation to get rid of clothes that might be worn again - Coordinating decluttering efforts with partners who have different approaches

- Logistics of donating/selling large items, especially in condos/apartments

Digital Organization

- Cleaning out email inboxes and cloud storage

- Organizing downloaded files into proper folders

- Backing up important files to prevent data loss

In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe discuss supervision practices and resources.

AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM:

Meeting Purpose

Live recording of Do Better Podcast discussing supervision strategies in behavior analysis.

Key Takeaways

- Importance of building rapport and assessing baseline knowledge when supervising/coaching

- Effective supervision balances modeling, guided practice, and independent application

- Incorporating adult learning principles and cross-disciplinary approaches can enhance supervision

- Group supervision can be an efficient and collaborative strategy for multiple supervisees

Stakeholder Training vs. Traditional Supervision -

Joe's current role involves coaching stakeholders working with adult clients

- Focuses on providing tools and skills to those directly interacting with clients

- Differs from traditional RBT or BCBA candidate supervision

Meeting Stakeholders Where They Are

- Assessing baseline knowledge and tailoring approach to each stakeholder's background

- Avoiding jargon and starting with basics when necessary (e.g., defining behavior)

- Building skills progressively through feedback and systematic teaching

Rapport Building in Supervision

- Crucial first step before diving into technical aspects

- Demonstrating value and care for the individual being supervised

- Considering factors like dress code to appear approachable

Resources for Effective Supervision

- Books:

"Bringing Out the Best in People" by Aubrey Daniels,

"How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie -

"The ABA Supervision Handbook" for structured skill development

- Webinars on reflective leadership from Do Better Collective

- Publications by Denny Reed and Parsons on motivating human services staff

Supervision Strategies

- Using a "I do, we do, you do" direct instruction model

- Setting clear expectations for the supervision process

- Adapting to supervisee preferences (e.g., in-session feedback vs. post-session review)

Adult Learning Principles in Supervision

- Recognizing individual learning styles and preferences

- Incorporating research on adult learning, coaching, and motivation

- Exploring literature from related fields (e.g., social work) for broader perspectives

Group Supervision

- Potential time-saving strategy for supervisors with multiple supervisees

- Facilitates collaborative problem-solving and diverse perspectives

- Can be implemented periodically (e.g., monthly, quarterly) to supplement individual supervision

In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe discuss Self Regulation and the 5 Domains of stress.

Want to learn more about Self-Regulation or Neuroscience? Check out our workshop replay! Save 50% thru May 31st with code NSReplay50

Stuart Shanker's Book on Self-Reg

AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOMLive recording of the Do Better Podcast discussing self-regulation and behavioral neuroscience insights for ABA practice.

Key Takeaways

- Self-regulation skills are crucial and distinct from self-control, starting from infancy but developing throughout life

- The "marshmallow test" may measure stress response more than impulse control

- ABA practices could benefit from incorporating neuroscience insights on regulation and stress across multiple domains

- Explicit teaching of co-regulation and self-regulation skills may be necessary before tolerance/coping skills

Self-Regulation vs Self-Control

- Self-regulation involves managing arousal states and emotions

- Self-control focuses on resisting impulses but may not address underlying regulation

- Co-regulation with caregivers is key for developing self-regulation skills

- Explicit teaching of regulation strategies may be needed, not just shaping behavior

Stress and Regulation Domains

- 5 domains: biological, emotional, cognitive, social, pro-social - Biological domain (sleep, nutrition, etc.) is foundational - Assessing stress/regulation across domains can inform intervention

- Neuroception - automatic threat detection - impacts regulation

Implications for ABA Practice

- Need to assess regulation skills before/alongside other interventions

- Consider biological factors, hormones, sleep, etc. in programming

- Incorporate co-regulation and explicit self-regulation teaching

- Use more holistic intake/assessment processes

- Balance teaching tolerance with building regulation capacity

In this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan and Joe discuss considerations around determining treatment intensity.

ARTICLE about POP-C

AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM

Meeting Purpose

Live recording of the Do Better Podcast discussing how to determine appropriate service intensity for ABA therapy clients.

Key Takeaways

- There's a lack of standardized training/processes for determining ABA therapy hours

- New tools like POP-C (Patient Outcome Planning Calculator) are emerging to help guide decisions

- Many factors impact appropriate service intensity beyond just client needs (e.g. family capacity, funding constraints)

- More research is needed to determine optimal ways to prescribe treatment intensity

Topics

Current State of Service Intensity Decision-Making

- Historically, funding limitations often dictated hours (e.g. 6-10 hrs/week)

- Many BCBAs receive no formal training on how to determine appropriate hours

- Some organizations developing internal tools/processes, but no industry standard

- New research-based tools like POPC starting to emergePOP-C (Patient Outcome Planning Calculator)

- New tool published in 2023 to help determine service intensity

- 33-question assessment placing clients into high (30-40 hrs), medium (20-30 hrs) or low (up to 20 hrs) tiers

- Considers factors like diagnosis, behavior severity, communication skills, social avoidance

- Still in early stages

- authors seeking beta testers

Challenges in Determining Appropriate Hours

- Balancing clinical recommendations vs. family/logistical constraints

- Insurance requirements may not align with clinical judgment

- Difficulty measuring impact of prescribed vs. actual hours received

- Varying capacity of families to supplement therapy hours

- Considering opportunity costs (e.g. school time) of intensive 1:1 therapyFunding and Industry Trends

- Some providers only accepting clients who can meet minimum hour thresholds - Medicaid/insurance cutting back on covered services in some areas

- Potential for very limited covered hours (e.g. 4 hrs/month) in future

- Need for efficiency and prioritization if hours become more constrained

Next Steps

- Interested BCBAs can reach out to POP-C authors about beta testing

- Continue monitoring emerging research and tools for determining service intensity

- Consider how to adapt practices if funding becomes more limited in future

In this Episode, Dr. Megan and Joe catch up on a variety of topics: conferences, Behavioral Neuroscience, and AI!

AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM

Key Takeaways

- Do Better Collective is hosting a month-long "Rejected Conference" in December with 30+ presentations and 40+ CEs available

- Megan presented on behavioral neuroscience and rethinking functions of behavior at the recent Disrupt ABA conference

- Integrating neuroscience concepts into ABA practice can improve understanding of client behavior and treatment approaches

- AI tools like ChatGPT are helpful for organizing ideas and creating contentTopics

Rejected Conference Details

- Runs Dec 1-19 with 30+ presentations on diverse ABA topics

- 40+ CEs available, including many ethics CEs

- Flexible pricing ($50-200) with scholarship options

- Free for Trailblazer members who share about the conference

- Presentations cover wide range of topics: ethics, group learning, precision teaching, neurodiversity, etc.

Behavioral Neuroscience in ABA

- Megan presented on integrating behavioral neuroscience concepts into ABA practice

- Focus on understanding nervous system regulation (sympathetic vs parasympathetic states)

- Importance of addressing neuroscience/regulation before attempting to teach skills

- Created resources on screening for neuroscience factors and connecting to ABA

AI Tools for Content Creation

- Megan and Joe use ChatGPT to organize ideas and create content

- Voice-to-text features helpful for capturing thoughts while driving

- AI can help structure "word vomit" of ideas into coherent content

Podcast Schedule

- May skip December episode due to holidays

- Considering moving to Wednesdays in 2025 based on audience feedback

Next Steps

- Megan to share behavioral neuroscience resources and possibly do webinar in January

- Send survey about moving podcast to Wednesdays in 2025

- Promote upcoming Rejected Conference in December

In this episode, Dr. Megan and Joe interview Callie Plattner about Motivational Interviewing!

AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM Key Takeaways - Motivational interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based communication approach that can significantly enhance therapeutic relationships and outcomes in behavior analysis - MI skills (OARS: Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summaries) require intentional practice but can be transformative for client interactions - Recent research shows strong social validity for integrating MI into ABA training and practice, addressing known skill deficits in therapeutic alliance building Topics Background and Relevance of MI in ABA - Multiple recent studies (2018-2023) highlight BCBAs' lack of skills in building therapeutic relationships - Less than 6% of surveyed BCBAs had practical training in MI-related skills during education - MI has extensive evidence base in other helping professions (e.g., addiction treatment, healthcare) - Key MI outcomes align with ABA needs: increased treatment adherence, goal clarity, session attendance Core MI Skills (OARS) - Open-ended questions: Elicit detailed responses beyond yes/no (e.g., "Tell me about your weekend") - Affirmations: Recognize client strengths and efforts (e.g., "You're clearly a dedicated parent") - Reflections: Demonstrate active listening and check understanding (e.g., "It sounds like you're worried about...") - Summaries: Synthesize key points and transition topics Implementing MI in ABA Practice - Pause before offering solutions; ask additional questions and reflect to ensure full understanding - Use OARS flexibly, not necessarily in order - Practice in various contexts (e.g., emails, casual conversations) to build fluency - Adjust approach based on individual client communication preferences Research and Training Developments - 100% of BCBAs in a study agreed MI skills should be developed in the field - Organizations like Mosaic Pediatric Therapy integrating MI into staff training and onboarding - Growing number of ABA-specific MI resources and conference presentations emerging Next Steps - Attendees encouraged to explore MI resources shared during session (articles, books, recorded trainings) - Consider attending upcoming MI workshops (e.g., Stone Soup Conference, Maryland ABA in December) - Potential future Do Better workshop on MI with Callie Plattner in 2025 - Field to continue work on incorporating MI into ABA coursework, fieldwork, and continuing education

On this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan and Joe catch up and discuss Parenting issues we face as behavior analyst.

AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM:

Key Takeaways

- The group tentatively selected a mountain goat as Do Better's mascot, symbolizing persistence and overcoming obstacles

- Parenting as a behavior analyst involves balancing analytical thinking with being present as a parent

- Contextual, collaborative approaches to parenting that explain rationales and teach problem-solving skills are preferred over rigid rule-setting

- Helping neurodivergent children navigate societal expectations while honoring their authentic selves is an ongoing challenge

Topics

Mascot Selection -

Mountain goat emerged as leading choice, representing persistence and overcoming challenges

- Other suggestions included owl, fox, wolf

- group favored an animal aligned with "trailblazer" theme

- Plan to create cartoon version; name suggestion "Doby" (pronounced "dough-be")

Parenting as a Behavior Analyst

- Challenge of balancing analytical thinking vs. being present as a parent

- Example: Flexibility around bedtime snacks, considering medication effects on appetite

- Importance of contextual decision-making rather than rigid rules

- Teaching children to make requests in advance and respect parents' time/planning needs

- Setting clear family values (e.g. "we don't lie") and explaining rationales behind rulesSupporting Neurodivergent Children

- Difficulty navigating societal expectations while honoring child's authentic self

- Explaining "neurotypical standards" as arbitrary social constructs

- Teaching self-advocacy skills when possible

- Using resources like Go Zen to address issues like negativity from a neurological perspective

Next Steps

- Finalize mascot selection and create cartoon version

- Schedule February podcast to discuss decision fatigue and long-term thinking in parenting

- Megan to upload full Do Better event calendar for the year by January 31st