Podcast
The How to ABA Podcast
Hosted by Shira Karpel & Shayna Gaunt · EN
We are Shira and Shayna and we are so excited to bring you our first podcast episode of How to ABA! We are both BCBAs with over twenty years of experience, and as you can imagine, we have created and gathered so many resources in that time. We want to share them with you! That’s why we are here, and that’s why we created this podcast. If you are new to the world of ABA, are looking for new resources, or just looking for a fresh perspective, you’re in the right place!
37episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Burnout in ABA: Boundaries, Emotional Labor, and Sustainable Practice
1w ago00:16:10Tap to summarizeBurnout in ABA is not always about long hours or packed schedules. Often, it comes from the emotional labor that accompanies supporting clients, families, staff, and teams every day. In this conversation, we explore the invisible demands of helping professions and how constantly staying regulated, managing difficult conversations, and carrying the concerns of others can quietly drain our energy over time.We discuss why burnout is often connected to boundaries, workplace systems, and the expectations we place on ourselves. Compassionate professionals frequently struggle with saying no, setting limits, or recognizing when they have reached capacity. Yet protecting our time and energy is not selfish. It is essential for providing ethical, high-quality care.We also share practical ways to recognize emotional overload, create sustainable boundaries, and build habits that support long-term success in the field. Sustainable practice is not about occasional self-care. It is about understanding our limits, advocating for support, and creating conditions that allow us to continue making a meaningful impact without sacrificing our own well-being.What’s Inside: The hidden emotional labor ABA professionals carryHow boundaries support ethical and sustainable practiceStrategies for preventing burnout and protecting your energyMentioned in This Episode:Episode 233: ACT for Burnout: Strategies for BCBAs and TherapistsHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
Transcribe →Parent Training in ABA: How to Teach Parents Without Overwhelming Them
2w ago00:14:35Tap to summarizeParent training is one of the most important parts of ABA, but it can quickly become overwhelming when families are given too much information, too many strategies, or expectations that do not fit into their daily lives. In this conversation, we share practical ways to make parent coaching more supportive, effective, and sustainable.We discuss the importance of listening first, identifying meaningful family goals, and focusing on one or two priorities at a time. Rather than expecting parents to implement complex programs, we explore how to teach skills that fit naturally into routines like mealtimes, transitions, and bedtime.We also talk about using behavioral skills training with parents, reducing jargon, creating quick wins, and recognizing signs of overwhelm before frustration sets in. Parent coaching works best when it is collaborative, flexible, and centered on what matters most to each family.When we focus on building confidence instead of perfection, parents are more likely to feel empowered, supported, and successful as they develop new skills alongside their children.What’s Inside: How to prioritize meaningful parent goals without creating overwhelmWays to teach skills within everyday family routinesStrategies for building parent confidence through collaboration and quick winsMentioned in This Episode:Episode 133: The BST Model – Behavioral Skills TrainingHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
Transcribe →Transition Planning: Supporting Families Through Change
3w ago00:17:27Tap to summarizeTransitions are a natural part of life, but that does not make them easy. Whether a learner is moving from ABA services into school, transitioning to a new provider, entering adulthood, or adjusting to a different level of support, these changes can bring uncertainty, fear, and big emotions for everyone involved. In this conversation, we explore why transitions can feel overwhelming and how thoughtful planning can make them more successful for both learners and families.We discuss the importance of starting transition planning early, working backward from long-term goals, and focusing on the skills that will matter most in the next environment. We also share practical ways to support learners through gradual exposure, collaboration across teams, and meaningful opportunities to build independence. Just as importantly, we talk about supporting families with clear communication, compassion, and realistic expectations throughout the process.When transition planning is proactive, collaborative, and individualized, it helps learners move forward with greater confidence while giving families the support they need during times of change.What’s Inside: Why transitions can be challenging for learners, families, and professionalsPractical strategies for smoother transitions across settings and stages of lifeHow early planning and collaboration lead to better long-term outcomesMentioned in This Episode:Episode 109: Autism Back to School AdviceHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
Transcribe →What to Do When Parents Don’t Follow Through in ABA
4w ago00:17:51Tap to summarizeWhen parents are not following through with ABA strategies at home, it is easy to assume they are not motivated or invested. But more often, families are overwhelmed, exhausted, and trying to balance countless competing demands. In this conversation, we talk about why parent follow-through can be so challenging and how we, as ABA professionals, can approach those situations with more compassion, curiosity, and collaboration.We discuss common barriers that affect implementation, including stress, emotional load, complex strategies, lack of immediate reinforcement, and mismatched priorities. We also share practical ways to improve carryover by simplifying strategies, embedding supports into existing routines, modeling in real time, and celebrating small wins along the way.Most importantly, we explore how shifting from a mindset of compliance to partnership can help create meaningful progress for families. Parent coaching is not about perfection or clinical precision at home. It is about building realistic, sustainable strategies that work in everyday life and supporting families in a way that feels manageable and empowering.What’s Inside: Why parents may struggle to follow through with ABA strategiesPractical ways to improve parent coaching and carryoverHow collaboration and small wins create long-term successMentioned in This Episode:Episode 137: Parent Coaching/TrainingHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
Transcribe →Parent Partnerships in ABA: What Collaboration Actually Looks Like
Jun 200:15:35Tap to summarizeParent collaboration in ABA is more than regular updates or quick check-ins. It is about building real partnerships grounded in trust, empathy, and shared goals. We explore how shifting away from a “parent training” mindset can create stronger relationships and better outcomes for learners. From navigating difficult conversations to understanding family values and priorities, small changes in communication can make a major difference in how supported families feel.We also discuss practical strategies for creating meaningful collaboration, including scheduling noncontingent check-ins, listening before problem-solving, avoiding clinical jargon, and validating emotions during sensitive conversations. We share examples of how understanding the “why” behind a family’s goals can help align treatment priorities while still staying ethical and learner-centered.When parents feel heard and respected, collaboration becomes easier, consistency improves across environments, and families feel more confident carrying strategies into daily life. Strong parent partnerships are not about having all the answers. They are about working together toward shared goals in a compassionate and sustainable way.What’s Inside: How to move from parent training to true collaborationPractical communication strategies that build trust with familiesWays to navigate difficult conversations with empathy and clarityMentioned in This Episode:Episode 137: Parent Coaching/TrainingMastering Difficult Conversations: Building Confidence, Compassion, and Clarity in Communication CEUHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
Transcribe →Feedback to Collaboration: Building Stronger ABA Teams
May 2600:15:01Tap to summarizeStrong collaboration can completely change the way ABA teams function, but it takes more than occasional feedback or quick check-ins to make it work. We’re talking about what true collaboration looks like across ABA teams and interdisciplinary professionals, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, teachers, and families.We explore why communication often breaks down when everyone is focused on separate goals, and how shared values can help create stronger partnerships that ultimately improve learner outcomes. From scheduling regular team meetings to reducing jargon and building trust over time, we share practical ways to create more connected and supportive teams.We also discuss common barriers like time constraints, differing communication styles, and misunderstandings between disciplines. Most importantly, we highlight the importance of curiosity, relationship building, and keeping the learner at the center of every conversation. When teams feel supported and connected, collaboration becomes more natural, meaningful, and effective for everyone involved.What’s Inside:Why collaboration improves learner outcomesCommon barriers that prevent teams from working togetherPractical ways to build trust and communication across disciplinesMentioned in This Episode:Episode 082: BCBA Collaboration TipsHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
Transcribe →Giving Constructive Feedback in ABA Without Creating Defensiveness
May 1900:14:53Tap to summarizeGiving feedback can feel uncomfortable, especially when we worry about how it will be received. We explore how to approach constructive feedback in a way that builds trust instead of triggering defensiveness. By focusing on observable behavior rather than the individual, we can shift conversations away from blame and toward growth. We also highlight how emotions, past experiences, and even small forms of trauma can influence how feedback is interpreted.We discuss practical strategies like choosing the right time and setting, using collaborative language, and asking thoughtful questions instead of giving directives. Small adjustments in tone, body language, and pacing can make a meaningful difference in how feedback lands. We also emphasize the importance of keeping feedback manageable and creating space for dialogue so others feel heard and supported.When feedback is delivered with empathy and clarity, it strengthens relationships with staff and caregivers while improving outcomes for learners. Creating a culture where feedback feels safe and constructive allows everyone to grow together and stay aligned on shared goals.What’s Inside: How to give feedback without triggering defensivenessPractical strategies for staff and caregiver conversationsCommon mistakes to avoid when delivering feedbackMentioned in This Episode:Episode 217: Hard Conversations, Soft Skills: Navigating Difficult Parent & Staff InteractionsHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
Transcribe →From Compliance to Collaboration: Collaborative Supervision in ABA
May 1200:14:53Tap to summarizeWe explore what it really looks like to move from compliance-driven supervision to a more collaborative, relationship-focused approach in ABA. Drawing on real experiences, we reflect on how traditional, directive models can limit growth, reduce motivation, and impact clinical judgment. Instead, we share how shifting toward curiosity, shared decision-making, and mutual respect can empower supervisees to think independently and develop into confident clinicians.We talk about practical ways to bring collaboration into supervision, including asking better questions, setting meaningful goals, and creating space for reflection. We also acknowledge the real-world challenges like time constraints and varying experience levels, while offering strategies to navigate them with intention.Ultimately, we highlight how investing in collaborative supervision strengthens both staff development and client outcomes. When we prioritize connection over control, we create a more supportive environment that fosters growth, confidence, and long-term success for everyone involved.What’s Inside: Why compliance-based supervision can limit growthPractical strategies for collaborative supervisionHow connection improves staff performance and client outcomesMentioned in This Episode:HowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
Transcribe →Mastering Difficult Conversations in ABA - What Actually Works
May 500:12:28Tap to summarizeDifficult conversations are a core part of our work as BCBAs, yet many of us were never formally taught how to handle them. We explore why these moments feel so high stakes, from fear of conflict to protecting relationships, and how avoidance or vague communication can make things worse. Instead, we share practical strategies that help us approach these conversations with more confidence and clarity.We focus on leading with curiosity, using open body language, and grounding conversations in shared goals. We also highlight the importance of balancing empathy with accountability and why clarity is a form of kindness. By applying behavioral principles to communication, we can better prepare for these interactions and create more productive outcomes.Preparation plays a key role, including practicing ahead of time and identifying desired outcomes. When handled well, these conversations can strengthen relationships, improve team collaboration, and ultimately lead to better outcomes for our learners.What’s Inside: Why difficult conversations feel so challenging in ABACommon mistakes like avoidance and vague feedbackPractical strategies for clearer, more compassionate communicationHow to apply behavioral principles to conversationsMentioned in This Episode:The Next Conversation by Jefferson FisherHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
Transcribe →Supporting High-Needs Learners in Group Settings
Apr 2800:17:08Tap to summarizeSupporting high-needs learners in group settings starts with how we design the environment, not how we manage behavior. We reflect on how unclear expectations, limited movement, and unpredictable routines can impact anyone, then connect that experience to what our learners face every day. By redefining “high needs,” we focus on learners who require more support with regulation, skill acquisition, and participation, without lowering expectations for their success.We explore the often unspoken skills required in group settings, like waiting, turn-taking, imitation, and tolerating mistakes, and why these must be explicitly taught. We also share proactive strategies like structuring predictable routines, using visuals, and separating group skill instruction from academic content.Finally, we discuss common pitfalls such as over-prompting, reinforcing escape, and staff burnout, and how thoughtful planning, intentional teaching, and clear team communication can create more inclusive and sustainable group experiences.What’s Inside: Why environment design matters more than behavior controlKey group skills that must be explicitly taughtCommon mistakes and how to prevent staff burnoutMentioned in This Episode:How To ABA BlogEpisode 172: How to Teach Executive Functioning SkillsHowToABA.com/joinHow to ABA on YouTubeFind us on FacebookFollow us on Instagram
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