In this powerful episode of the Crisis in Education Podcast, Dr. Paulie welcomes Emil Majetich, a doctoral candidate in early childhood special education, licensed behavior analyst, university instructor, and 25-year fire service veteran. Emil shares his remarkable journey from fire lieutenant and paramedic to behavior analyst, emphasizing the transferable skills and values that fuel his passion for helping others. With firsthand experience supporting families of children with autism in education, especially military families navigating the challenges of virtual service delivery, Emil brings a unique blend of grit, compassion, and behavioral science to the table.

Listeners will hear about Emil’s work mentoring the next generation of practitioners, his involvement with organizations like Surfers Healing, and how his experiences in high-stakes, real-life crises inform his perspective on meaningful family and educator support. This episode underscores the importance of authenticity in service delivery and highlights practical ways educators and behavior analysts can collaborate to create lasting impact—not just in theory, but in action.

Military & DoD Families with Autistic Children: Take part in a free virtual ABA family coaching study designed specifically for you. Receive personalized support from a Licensed and Board Certified Behavior Analyst and learn practical, evidence-based strategies you can use at home—no travel required. The program is flexible, confidential, and built with military life in mind. Support your child’s development while helping shape better services for other military families.

Please use this link https://bit.ly/4hzDjxA or contact Emil Majetich Jr. at emajetic@gmu.edu