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#dobetter Pod
By Megan Miller & Joe SmithScience
#dobetter Pod episodes
- Do Better Pod Live Jan 2025: Catching up and Parenting
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
55 min - Do Better Pod Live Sept 2024: Conferences and New Clinical Resource!
In this episode Joe and Dr Megan discuss 2 upcoming conferences and a new clinical resource Dr. Megan created for FABA. Check out the links below and enjoy the show!
Conference Info:
1. CPABA
2. Rejected 2024 --> No Link yet but stay tuned for details!
3. ABA Reimagined
AI Summary from Fathom
Meeting Purpose
Record a podcast episode discussing upcoming ABA conferences and new resources for practitioners.
Key Takeaways
- CPABA conference (Oct 11-12) offers 90+ CEs and aims to bring together diverse perspectives in ABA
- "Rejected" conference planned for December to highlight practitioners and rejected presentations
- New "Do Better Field Guide" resource created with tip sheets and checklists on key ABA topics
- Multiple ABA conferences coming up, offering opportunities for learning and networking
Topics
CPABA Conference
- Online conference Oct 11-12 with 90+ CE credits available
- Aims to bring together differing perspectives on ABA topics
- Panels on ableism, autism diagnosis, participatory research, ethics, social media impacts
- Discount code DELEON2024 for 10% off registration
- Recordings likely available after (to be confirmed)
Overview"Rejected" Conference
- Planned for December 2024, online format
- Goal: Highlight practitioners and presentations rejected from other conferences
- 1-2 hour time slots throughout month
- Likely free for members, donation-based for non-members
- Aiming for accessibility features (e.g. sign language interpreters)
- Registration for presenters opening in October, attendees in late Oct/early Nov
Do Better Field Guide Resource
- New resource with tip sheets and implementation checklists
- Topics: language development, assent, emotional regulation, NET, toilet training, assessment, parent coaching
- Designed for newer BCBAs to "hit the ground running"
- Additional niche-specific guides may be developed in future
Other Conference Mentions
- ABA Reimagined conference in February (online)
- APBA conference in Dallas end of March
52 min - Do Better Pod Live Recording - Interview with Amanda "Mandy" Ralston
In this episode Dr. Megan and Joe had the pleasure of interviewing one of the most innovative behavior analysts there is: Amanda "Mandy" Ralston. Our conversation focused on the new technology Amanda has created that is changing the landscape of how we develop treatment plans as behavior analysts. Tune in to find out more!
LINKS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AMANDA:
- Knowetic.ai
- https://www.amandaralston.com/
- NonBinary Solutions
AI Summary from Fathom:
Meeting purposeLive recording of the "Do Better Podcast" featuring guest Amanda "Mandy" Ralston discussing her innovative AI-powered clinical decision support software for behavior analysts.
Key Takeaways
- Knowetic is a pioneering clinical decision support system for behavior analysts, offering standardized intake, goal development, and treatment intensity forecasting
- The software aims to enhance clinical decision-making by providing AI-assisted record review and recommendations based on 25+ years of practitioner experience
- Knowetic addresses the complexity of autism and co-occurring conditions, emphasizing individualized, holistic treatment planning
- The platform will incorporate standardized assessment tools (e.g. BHI) and aims to gather data to improve treatment outcomes across the field
Introduction to Knowetic AI
- Knowetic is a subscription-based software platform for clinicians
- Three main modules: care navigation, goal development, and intensity forecasting
- Provides standardized intake process and builds behavioral profiles
- Offers treatment recommendations based on 25+ years of clinical experience
- Emphasizes clinician decision-making, not replacing clinical judgment
KnowYeti AI Assistant
- HIPAA-compliant chatbot within Knowetic
- Quickly reads and summarizes uploaded patient documents
- Assists with record review and treatment plan writing
- Does not access internet or retain information between sessions
Data Collection and Future Development
- Standardized data collection allows for comparison across patients
- Future plans to employ machine learning for pattern recognition and outcome prediction
- Collaboration with Dr. Hanley to incorporate BHI (Behavioral Health Index) into the software
Expanding ABA Beyond Autism
- Discussion on applying behavior analysis to other fields (e.g., substance abuse, human trafficking)
- Emphasis on research, data collection, and dissemination to expand ABA's reach
- Networking and interdisciplinary collaboration as key to expanding influence
Amanda Ralston's Career Journey
- 25+ years of experience in behavior analysis
- Transitioned from clinical practice to tech entrepreneurship
- Extensive networking and public speaking leading to diverse opportunities
Next Steps
- Interested parties can sign up for a demo of Knowetic at Knowetic.ai
- Follow Amanda Ralston on social media for updates (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook)
59 min - Do Better Pod Live: Where do you see the field in 6 Years?
At the CARES conference hosted by United Caring Partners, Dr. Megan had the pleasure of sitting on a panel presented by the folks at ABA Inside Track and the last question of the panel was: In 6 years, what do you hope to see at this conference? In today's episode, Dr. Megan, Joe, and members of the Do Better Collective discuss how they would answer this question.
We want to know your answer! Comment and let us know what you hope to see in 6 years in the field of ABA!
AI NOTES FROM FATHOM:
Meeting PurposeLive recording of the Do Better Podcast to discuss the vision for the field of behavior analysis in 6 years
Key Takeaways
- AI and ethical utilization of AI in ABA service delivery is a critical area the field needs to address
- More robust training/supervision requirements and opportunities for BCBAs, focus on developing problem-solving skills
- Increased emphasis on family systems, human development, and avoiding pathologizing in training
- Conference speakers should highlight more practitioner work rather than just research
- Include more focus on adult services as clients grow older
AI Utilization
- Field needs guidelines on ethical, HIPAA-compliant use of AI for reducing burnout, increasing efficiency
- Payers may utilize AI first if field does not get ahead of it
- Opportunities for AI to support data collection, treatment planning, flagging non-individualized programming
BCBA Training
- Need more robust training requirements beyond just passing exam
- Potential internship model, assigned mentors, focus on applied skills
- Conference sessions/discounts to engage current BCBA candidates
Human Development & Family Systems
- Increased emphasis on human development to avoid pathologizing
- Training on working with entire family system, not just client
Conference Focus
- Shift towards practitioner speakers sharing actual clinical work
- Include local providers, not just recurring list of presenters
- Representation of all perspectives - race, disability, gender, etc.
49 min - Do Better Pod Live Recording June 2024: How do you feel when you complete a task?
In this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan and Joe and members of the Do Better Collective discuss how it feels to complete a task based on an IG post about the differences people experience in feeling proud of finishing something. They also explore the research on whether it is better to focus on the process or the outcomes.
AI SUMMARY FROM FATHOM:
Meeting PurposeLive recording of the Do Better Podcast to discuss feeling a sense of accomplishment or pride when finishing tasks
Key Takeaways
- Some feel a sense of pride/accomplishment when completing tasks, while others feel more relief at getting it done
- Neuroscience research shows focusing on the process rather than outcomes leads to greater happiness/wellbeing
- Our field heavily emphasizes outcomes (e.g. meeting goals) over reinforcing the process of problem-solving creatively
- Shifting to reinforce process over product could reduce burnout and increase motivation/effectiveness
Differing Experiences of Accomplishment
- Joe can feel accomplished crossing items off lists, but it's more about organization than happiness
- Hannah uses lists for visual support but doesn't feel joy crossing items off
- Megan used to feel immense pride completing tasks when starting Do Better, but now feels more relief
- Jennilee doesn't feel accomplishment unless there's an element of competition
Neuroscience on Process vs Outcome Focus
- Research shows focusing on the process of an activity (e.g. problem-solving) leads to more happiness than focusing solely on the end outcome/product
- Our capitalistic society heavily emphasizes and reinforces achieving outcomes/production over the process
- This outcome focus likely contributes to burnout and reduced wellbeing in our field
Shifting Practice to Reinforce Process
- We could adjust how we train/supervise staff to reinforce creativity, problem-solving, and the journey rather than just meeting targets
- For clients, we could reinforce engagement in activities rather than just correct responses
- Doing this requires a mindset shift, but aligns with increasing focus on client happiness/quality of life
Next Steps
- Explore creating a workshop/training for collective members on restructuring practices (evaluations, supervision, etc.) to reinforce process over outcomes
- Individually reflect on how to build in more process-focused reinforcement and metrics
- Continue this philosophical discussion as it could go much deeper
59 min - Do Better Pod Live May 2024: Interview with Vanessa
In this Episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan interviews Vanessa Magallanez, BCBA about using ACT and Parent Coaching. Tune in to learn more!
AI Summary from Fathom:
Live recording of the Do Better Podcast to interview Vanessa Magallanez about incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) into her practice as a behavior analyst and parent coach.
Key Takeaways:
- Identifying and connecting with personal values is crucial for meaningful behavior change
- ACT helps practitioners understand the inner experiences (thoughts, emotions) driving behavior
- Focusing on the process rather than outcomes leads to more success and happiness
- Practitioners should reflect on whether services align with clients' values
Background and Getting into ACT
- Vanessa started incorporating ACT 2-3 years ago to better support parents
- Initially unsure if using ACT was within her scope, but saw positive results
- Biggest influence was realizing focus was too much on the child, not enough on parent perspective
Recommended ACT/Parenting Resources:
- The ACT Made Simple book
- Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy
- Go Zen website with interactive ACT-aligned activities for kids
Incorporating ACT into Practice:
- Identifies client values and translates into actions/goals
- Focuses on present moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance
- Helps parents reconnect with their identity beyond just being a parent
- Uses conversational, natural language rather than technical ACT terms
Goals and Branching Out:
- Create more vocational/community opportunities aligned with client interests
- Supervise BCBAs to expose them to diverse populations (criminal justice, mental health)
- Build rapport, be open to different experiences
51 min - Do Better Pod Live March 2024 - Spring Cleaning
In this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Megan and Joe discuss Spring Cleaning with Do Better Trailblazer Member: Hannah Skillman.
AI Summary from Fathom:
Meeting Purpose:Live recording of the Do Better podcast focused on spring cleaning and organizing physical and digital spaces.
- The podcast will not have an April recording due to Megan's upcoming conferences and travel. They will resume in May.
- Everyone struggles with organizing and deleting digital files and photos. Having too many can be a form of "digital hoarding."
- Strategies like arranging an enjoyable environment with snacks and entertainment can help motivate organizing tasks.
- Getting input from others on whether to keep clothing items can help with decision making during closet cleaning.
- Considering colors that flatter you when shopping and cleaning out clothes can streamline the process.
- Some items have sentimental value and are hard to part with. Setting them aside in a special place can help.
- No topic is off limits for applying behavior analysis!
- Everyone struggles with large numbers of photos and files on devices and wants to delete duplicates.
- Hard to delete when unsure if it's backed up elsewhere already.
- Can be a form of "digital hoarding" to keep too many files.
- Strategies like snacks and entertainment can help motivate organizing tasks.
- May have monetary costs for extra storage if not deleting files.
- Getting input from others helps decide what clothing to keep or toss.
- Considering what colors flatter you can streamline closet cleaning.
- Some items have sentimental value and are hard to discard.
- No topic is off limits for applying behavior analysis!
- Challenge listeners to come up with a topic we can't tie back to ABA.
- Share organizing tips and what worked to declutter physical and digital spaces.
- Listeners to share topics they think can't be connected to behavior analysis.
27 min - VB vs RFT Reboot
This is a reboot of our 2nd ever episode on the divide between Verbal and Relational Frame Theory. Enjoy!
1 hr 35 min - Do Better Podcast Live Feb 27th, 2024 - Somatic Movement with Iveth
In this episode, Joe and Dr. Megan interview Iveth who is a BCBA practicing as a woman's empowerment coach. Iveth explains her journey with Somatic Movement and how it can affect how we understand ourselves and our clients.
Follow Iveth on Instagram:
@empowerwithiveth
@emotionawareaba
Links Shared in the Show:
Youtube Video on Healing Trauma: https://youtu.be/FKrCe9fHsSc?si=o-njPb_t8Gwhc8jk
Body Keeps the Score Book: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748
It Didn't Start with You Book: https://www.amazon.com/Didnt-Start-You-Inherited-Family/dp/
YouTube Video on Somatic Therapy TedX Talk: https://youtu.be/UU7eSxcBhpM?si=54rjTfOfmJvivOjg
Social Emotional Resources Google Doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18UcU8OXFwyEEjRGAXvxxaxSu_cIriMJIUs4QqYegqqs/edit?usp=drive_link
Emotional Regulation Website: www.gozen.com
Summary of Podcast from Fathom:
- Somatic movement focuses on internal bodily experiences rather than just external movement.
- Ignoring body signals starts early in childhood and continues into adulthood.
- Connecting with your own body helps you better understand client needs.
- Emotions drive behavior, so addressing emotions prevents problem behavior.
- There is fear around incorporating new practices into ABA, but we must be open to grow.
- Somatic means relating to the body. Somatic movement is moving in a way where the intention is on internal bodily experiences rather than just external movement.
- Our bodies hold wisdom for how to heal and regulate, but we are trained to ignore internal signals from a young age.
- Somatic movement can be any movement motivated by an internal experience, even just using the bathroom when needed.
- Iveth has been a BCBA since 2020 but experienced burnout from constant stress.
- She took a break to travel and discovered somatic movement and nervous system regulation.
- This was the missing piece - connecting her mind and body. She uses somatic practices daily now.
- As a coach, Iveth identifies "can't do vs won't do" problems. If it's a "won't do" due to fear, she helps clients connect with their body to release the fear.
- With clients with autism, she gets curious about the function of behaviors like tantrums. She explores what feelings drive the behaviors and teaches coping skills through movement.
- Books like The Body Keeps the Score and It Didn't Start With You.
- Connecting with your own body is the best resource.
- Emotions drive behavior but are often ignored in ABA. We should teach body awareness and movement for regulation.
- There is fear of incorporating new practices into ABA, but we must have cultural humility and synthesize knowledge.
56 min - Do Better Pod Live Recording Jan 23, 2024: Goals and Words for 2024
In this episode of the Do Better Podcast, Dr. Megan and Joe discuss goals and words for 2024 with members of the Do Better Community. What's your word for 2024?
Podcast Summary from Fathom:
- Both Megan and Joe are focused on improving their health, routines, and productivity in 2024.
- Having an extensive list of health/self-care goals can be overwhelming and counterproductive. It's better to focus on 1-3 key goals at a time.
- Choosing a "word of the year" and integrating it into your life (like a password) can help focus intentions.
- Tools like planners, journals, and apps can help build habits and routines, if used consistently.
- Planning for obstacles and challenges in advance leads to better follow-through. The WOOP method (Wish, Outcome, Obstacles, Plan) is a helpful framework.
- Megan went on a cruise and is now trying to establish routines and new habits, but feels overwhelmed by their extensive list of 30+ health/self-care goals. They got a planner to track habits and routines.
- Joe is focused on productivity, planning, leadership, and being more disciplined in health habits like diet and exercise. They uses a "High Performance Planner".
- They discussed how having too many goals creates cognitive load and makes it hard to build consistent habits. It's better to focus on 1-3 high priority goals first.
- Joe uses "brain dumping" at night to reduce cognitive load. Megan's new planner helps their plan and track goals.
- Nicole shared that choosing a "word of the year" helps focus intentions. Joe's word is "disciplined".
- Writing goals down repeatedly (like in a password) keeps them top of mind. Vision boards also help visualize goals.
- Time blocking is useful but can be hard for dynamic jobs. Planning for obstacles in advance helps overcome challenges.
- Teaching supervisees methods like WOOP to plan for obstacles can set them up for real world success.
- They will revisit leadership strategies for behavior analysts in a future episode.
- Megan will confirm if their word of the year is "organized" in the next episode.
- They will interview Callie and discuss leadership strategies in future episodes.
- Next live podcast recording is February 27th at 12pm EST.
40 min
About #dobetter Pod
From the publisher's feed
A professional development initiative for behavior analysts
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