ABA Business Leaders

Hosted by Stephen Smith

Business Entrepreneurship Science

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Episodes

213

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Join us as we dive deep into the world of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) , exploring real-world challenges and practical strategies to improve the quality, ethics, and sustainability of ABA services. Hosted by April & Stephen, the team behind 3 Pie Squared , each episode brings actionable insights for practice owners, clinicians, and leaders in the field—whether you’re just getting started or scaling your business. Expect candid conversations, expert interviews, and honest advice about supervision, billing, hiring, training, compliance, and more. Our goal? To help you build an ABA practice that serves clients ethically and effectively—while supporting your team and growing your business with purpose. 🔗 Learn more about our courses, handbooks, and consulting services at www.3piesquared.com .

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60 recent

August 13, 2026Episode 2855 min

ABA Business Leaders Podcast: Empathic Leadership and Supporting RBTs

In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast , Stephen and April Smith are joined by Mallory and Jennifer to discuss empathic leadership and the experience of RBTs and other frontline ABA professionals. The conversation covers workplace culture, burnout, recognition, career development, professional growth, and the importance of applying the principles of reinforcement to your own team. They also discuss the emotional connection technicians develop with clients and how small acts of appreciation can make a meaningful difference. In this episode: Supporting and valuing RBTs Workplace culture and burnout Recognition and positive reinforcement Career development and CEUs The idea of a "dead-end job" Supporting technicians through client transitions Building a culture of appreciation Have a question for Stephen and April? Call the ABA Business Leaders Hotline: (737) 330-1432 Resources & Links Business Essentials List https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 ABA Business Leaders Support Group https://forms.office.com/r/cigPR8wFFC Schedule a consultation with Stephen https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ABA Billing Tips Guide https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs Podcast Production This podcast was produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio . Want to start or grow a podcast for your business or brand? https://www.mkmaudio.com/contact

August 6, 2026Episode 271 hr 0 min

National Wellness Month: I Hate My Job!

In this special National Wellness Month re-release, Stephen and April Smith revisit one of the most honest conversations they've had about burnout, workplace culture, and the realities of working in ABA. Inspired by real posts shared across Reddit, TikTok, Twitter, and other online communities, they react to the frustrations, challenges, and ethical dilemmas that many RBTs, BCBAs, and ABA professionals experience every day. Drawing on their experience building, scaling, and exiting a seven-figure ABA company, Stephen and April discuss why so many clinicians feel unsupported, where business owners often go wrong, and how ethical leadership creates better outcomes for both staff and clients. Whether you're a clinician, practice owner, or aspiring ABA entrepreneur, this episode offers an honest look at the issues affecting the industry, along with practical insights on building a healthier workplace. In this episode: Why Stephen and April decided to react to real ABA workplace stories Common reasons ABA professionals say they "hate their job" The impact of burnout, poor leadership, and unrealistic expectations Ethical challenges facing RBTs and BCBAs How business owners can improve staff retention and workplace culture Why advocating for yourself and your clients matters Creating sustainable, values-driven ABA businesses Have a question for Stephen and April? Call the ABA Business Leaders Hotline: 📞 (737) 330-1432 Resources & Links Business Essentials List https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 ABA Business Leaders Support Group https://forms.office.com/r/cigPR8wFFC Schedule a consultation with Stephen https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ABA Billing Tips Guide https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs This podcast was produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio. Want to start or grow a podcast for your business or brand? https://www.mkmaudio.com/contact

July 30, 2026Episode 2656 min

Training and Supervision with Allyson Wharam

How much training should an RBT receive before working with clients? Is online training as effective as in-person instruction? And why are so many talented clinicians leaving the ABA profession? In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, Stephen and April Smith are joined by Allyson Wharam to discuss how effective staff training directly impacts clinical quality, employee retention, supervision, and long-term business success. Drawing on research, real-world experience, and lessons from working with ABA organisations across the industry, the conversation explores why organisations need to move beyond minimum compliance and instead build intentional learning systems that develop confident clinicians and stronger leaders. Whether you're launching a new ABA practice or managing multiple locations, this episode offers practical insights into creating a culture where employees continue learning, supervisors are equipped to lead, and businesses retain great people for the long term. In this episode you'll learn: How top ABA firms win with great training Why smart course design beats the format Must-know rules for staff training How growth keeps your best staff How to build high-performing RBTs, BCBAs, and leaders How coaching drives better results How to create a culture that keeps growing Sponsored by MarginKeepers This episode is proudly sponsored by MarginKeepers , the accounting firm built specifically for ABA businesses. From bookkeeping and payroll to financial reporting and strategic guidance, they helps practice owners understand their numbers, improve profitability, and make confident business decisions. Learn more: https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/MarginKeepers Have a question for Stephen and April? 📞 ABA Business Leaders Hotline: (737) 330-1432 Resources & Links MarginKeepers https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/MarginKeepers Business Essentials List https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 Schedule a consultation with Stephen https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ABA Billing Tips Guide https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs This podcast was produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio. https://www.mkmaudio.com/contact

July 23, 2026Episode 2551 min

Is ABA Cancelled?

Is ABA Canceled? What Every ABA Business Owner Needs to Know With social media full of headlines asking whether ABA is "getting canceled" or if the industry is in crisis, it's easy for business owners to feel uncertain about the future. In this episode, Stephen and April tackle those concerns head-on. Rather than focusing on fear, they explore what's really happening in the ABA industry, why increased scrutiny isn't necessarily a bad thing, and how ethical providers can position themselves for long-term success. From documentation and billing practices to clinical quality and leadership, this conversation is a practical reminder that strong businesses are built on strong foundations. This episode is for ABA practice owners, clinical directors, and aspiring entrepreneurs who want to build an ethical, sustainable, and compliant business. Whether you're just starting your practice or leading an established organization, Stephen and April share practical insights to help you navigate industry changes with confidence while continuing to deliver high-quality care. In this episode, you'll learn: Why increased oversight of ABA providers is happening. Whether the ABA industry is truly "in trouble." The difference between unethical providers and ethical business owners. Common compliance and documentation mistakes that create unnecessary risk. Why quality assurance should become part of your regular operations. How small operational improvements can protect your practice. Why business owners shouldn't make decisions based on fear or social media narratives. Free resources available to help strengthen your ABA business. Have a question for Stephen and April? 📞 Call the ABA Business Leaders Hotline: (737) 330-1432 This podcast was produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio Want to start or grow a podcast for your business or brand? Reach out here: www.mkmaudio.com Resources & Links Business Essentials List https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 ABA Business Leaders Support Group https://forms.office.com/r/cigPR8wFFC Schedule a Consultation with Stephen https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ABA Billing Tips Guide https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs

July 16, 2026Episode 2451 min

The Cost of Saving Money in Your ABA Business

Saving money sounds like good business. But what happens when being frugal starts costing you more in lost time, staff frustration, compliance risk, and burnout? In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, Stephen and April Smith unpack the hidden cost of underinvesting in your ABA business. Drawing from their own experience of piecing together free and low-cost systems, they explore why the cheapest option is not always the most cost-effective one. Have a Question for Stephen and April? Call the ABA Business Leaders Hotline: (737) 330-1432 Resources & Links Business Essentials List https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 ABA Business Leaders Support Group https://forms.office.com/r/cigPR8wFFC Schedule a Consultation with Stephen https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ABA Billing Tips Guide https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs This podcast was produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio. Want to start or grow a podcast for your business or brand? Reach out here: https://www.mkmaudio.com/contact

July 9, 2026Episode 2351 min

Top 5 Employee Handbook Policies Every ABA Business Needs

Ever wondered why handbooks are so crucial to ABA business success? A strong employee handbook helps create consistency, protects your business, and gives your team confidence in how your organization operates. In this episode, Stephen and April Smith continue their discussion on building the operational foundations of a successful ABA practice by breaking down five essential policies every employee handbook should include. From confidentiality and electronic communication to social media, safety procedures, and mandatory reporting, they explain why clear expectations reduce risk and improve accountability across your organization. Whether you're launching your first ABA company or refining your existing systems, this episode offers practical guidance to help protect both your business and your employees. Resources & Links Business Essentials List https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 ABA Business Leaders Support Group https://forms.office.com/r/cigPR8wFFC Schedule a Consultation with Stephen https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ABA Billing Tips Guide https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs Have a question for Stephen and April? 📞 Call the ABA Business Leaders Hotline: (737) 330-1432 This podcast was produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio. Want to start or grow a podcast for your business or brand? https://www.mkmaudio.com/contact

July 2, 2026Episode 2254 min

Podswap: In the Field with Allyson Wharam

A Special Podcast Swap with Allyson's In the Field Podcast This week, April and Stephen Smith of 3 Pie Squared and the ABA Business Leaders Podcast joined Allyson's In the Field: The ABA Podcast for a special podcast swap episode. April and Stephen share the story behind building and operating their ABA practice for 12 years before transitioning into full-time consulting. The conversation explores the realities of starting an ABA business, scaling sustainably, building leadership teams, creating operational systems, and maintaining ethical profitability. The episode also discusses the challenges of delegation, founder identity, work-life boundaries, and why many BCBAs® are unprepared for the leadership demands of business ownership. Key Topics ✔ Starting an ABA practice without a business background ✔ Why founders need a clear vision before scaling ✔ Building systems that support delegation and growth ✔ The relationship between profitability and ethical practice ✔ Developing BCBAs into effective leaders Key Takeaways You don't know what you don't know when starting a business. Vision should guide growth, not follow it. Systems create consistency, scalability, and freedom. Profitability supports ethical clinical practice. Leadership skills must be intentionally developed. Founder identity should extend beyond the business itself. Resources & Links Grab Stephen’s Book Here!: "The ABA Business Leader's Guide: How to Start, Grow, and Sustain an Ethical ABA Practice Without Losing Your Soul" by April and Stephen Smith Free Consultation Booking Link & Business Essentials List Listen to Allyson’s Podcast SideKick Learning ABA Business Leaders Support Group:

June 25, 2026Episode 211 hr 17 min

System That Support ABA with Brian Lopez

In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, Stephen and April Smith sit down with Dr. Brian Lopez, PhD, BCBA, licensed clinical psychologist, behavior analyst, and Director of Psychological Services and Research at JumpStart Autism Collective. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in autism services, diagnostics, and healthcare leadership, Dr. Lopez explains why better outcomes for ABA learners require more than strong clinical programming. From early diagnosis and interdisciplinary collaboration to telehealth innovation and scalable service delivery, he shares how providers can build systems that support children, families, clinicians, and communities. What Systems Best Support ABA Learners? Dr. Lopez explains how coordinated systems connecting diagnostics, ABA therapy, healthcare providers, schools, families, and community resources create stronger learner outcomes. Why Is Early Autism Diagnosis So Important? Early diagnosis helps families access services sooner, reduce delays in intervention, and support better developmental outcomes for children with autism. How Can ABA Providers Improve Access to Care? The conversation explores how telehealth, operational systems, and innovative service models are expanding ABA services to underserved and rural communities. Why Does Collaboration Matter in ABA? Dr. Lopez highlights the importance of collaboration between psychologists, BCBAs, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, pediatricians, and families in supporting learner success. What Can ABA Business Owners Learn From This Episode? Listeners will gain insights into leadership, sustainable growth, scalable systems, and maintaining clinical quality while expanding services. Have a Question for Stephen and April? 📞 ABA Business Leaders Hotline: (737) 330-1432 --------- Produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio. Want to launch or grow a podcast for your business? https://www.mkmaudio.com/contact Resources & Links SILNA: https://www.silnahealth.com/?ref=3Pie#get-started Business Essentials List https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 ABA Business Leaders Support Group https://forms.office.com/r/cigPR8wFFC Schedule a Consultation with Stephen https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ABA Billing Tips Guide https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs

June 18, 2026Episode 2035 min

The Power of ABA and Speech Therapy with Rose Griffin

What happens when a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) becomes a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)? In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, April and Stephen sit down with Rose Griffin, MA, CCC-SLP, BCBA, founder of ABA Speech, to discuss the intersection of speech therapy and applied behavior analysis. The conversation explores common misconceptions between disciplines, how ABA companies can successfully integrate speech services, and why communication goals should be developed through genuine interdisciplinary collaboration. Rose also discusses the importance of developmental milestones, AAC implementation, ethical collaboration, and her upcoming book designed to help professionals better support communication development. How can BCBAs and Speech-Language Pathologists work together more effectively? Rose explains why collaboration between ABA and speech professionals can be challenging and shares practical strategies for building stronger interdisciplinary partnerships that improve outcomes for autistic learners. Should ABA companies hire Speech-Language Pathologists? Learn the benefits, challenges, and key considerations for ABA organizations looking to integrate speech therapy services into their practice, including what leaders should know before hiring an SLP. What communication skills should behavior analysts understand? Rose discusses foundational communication development, language milestones, joint attention, AAC, and why understanding speech and language development helps BCBAs create more effective interventions. This podcast was produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio Want to start or grow a podcast for your business or brand? Reach out here: https://www.mkmaudio.com/contact Resources & Links Pre-order link of Rose Griffin’s book: https://abaspeech.lpages.co/say-it-with-me-book-page/ Business Essentials List https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 ABA Business Leaders Support Group https://forms.office.com/r/cigPR8wFFC Schedule a consultation with Stephen https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ABA Billing Tips Guide https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs

June 11, 2026Episode 191 hr 5 min

Nervous System Regulation, Authentic Leadership, and the Humanity Behind ABA

What happens when behavior analysts shift from compliance to connection? In this episode of ABA Business Leaders, Stephen and April Smith talk with Sarah Moore, CEO of The Jai Institute for Parenting, founder of Dandelion Seeds Positive Parenting, and author of Peaceful Discipline. They explore nervous system regulation, emotional safety, authenticity, and what it means to show up as a human being. Drawing from her expertise in attachment science and regulation, Sarah explains how emotional suppression affects relationships, leadership, and connection. The conversation highlights how many ABA professionals are trained to “shut it off,” and how that mindset often carries into both business and personal life. They also discuss what it takes to create genuine emotional safety for ourselves and others. Questions To Be Answered What is nervous system regulation and why does it matter? Why is authenticity important? How does emotional suppression affect leaders? Are we too focused on compliance? How can you regulate during stress? Can unhealthy coping mechanisms prevent emotional growth? Stephen, April, and Sarah discuss how substances, food, and other forms of emotional avoidance can temporarily numb difficult feelings while ultimately making long-term regulation more difficult. The conversation emphasizes building healthier coping skills and developing a wider range of emotional tools. Resources & Links Business Essentials List https://www.3piesquared.com/blog/the-essential-list-for-a-successful-business_24 ABA Business Leaders Support Group https://forms.office.com/r/cigPR8wFFC Schedule a Consultation with Stephen https://3piesquared.com/stephen-booking-page Free ABA Business Readiness Assessment https://3piesquared.com/aba-business-readiness-assessment ABA Billing Tips Guide https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Billing_Tips ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs https://3piesquared.com/productDetails/ABA_Business_Leaders_Podcast_CEUs MarginKeepers: https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/MarginKeepers Produced by Max McLellan of MKM Audio. Want to start or grow a podcast for your business or brand? https://www.mkmaudio.com/contact