Resilience Coaching Collective

In this heartfelt webinar replay from Resilience Coaching Collective, host Belle Stikeleather (BCBA & resilience coach) welcomes Sunny & Johnny Tran from San Diego to share their inspiring story of raising their autistic daughter Kyla (now 15), alongside her two siblings.

From early red flags at age 2 (limited eye contact, pointing, and response to name) to diagnosis, intensive early intervention, and years of collaboration with Belle’s team, Sunny & Johnny reflect on:

• Embracing neurodiversity: viewing autism as part of Kyla’s unique personality (“icing on the cake”) rather than something to “fix.”
• Practical strategies: visual cues, timers, choice boards, role-playing, board games, and community adventures (kayaking, surfing, art classes) to build communication, emotional regulation, and independence.
• Family resilience: navigating sibling dynamics, public perceptions, self-care, and celebrating small victories with positivity, patience, and never giving up.
• Thriving as a family: turning challenges into growth through teamwork, love, adventure, and consistent support.

This session highlights the power of early intervention, parent-professional collaboration, and affirming Kyla’s abilities, proving that with the right tools and mindset, families can thrive together.

Perfect for parents, educators, therapists, and allies seeking real-life hope, strategies, and encouragement for neurodivergent journeys.

Timestamps for easy navigation:

• 00:00 – Welcome & Introductions
• 01:16 – Kyla’s Early Red Flags & Diagnosis
• 05:49 – Embracing Neurodiversity & Redefining Thriving
• 09:02 – Importance of Early Intervention & Team Collaboration
• 13:43 – Communication Tools (Visual Cues, Schedules, Choice Boards)
• 19:20 – Emotional Regulation & Coping Strategies (Board Games, Role-Play)
• 24:04 – Handling Public Perceptions & Educating Others
• 29:58 – Sibling Dynamics & Family Bonding Through Adventure
• 35:09 – Self-Care & Parent Resilience (Date Days, Celebrating Wins)
• 40:00 – Community Activities & Applying Skills (Swimming, Art, Fishing)
• 46:52 – Q&A & Closing Reflections (Sarah’s Affirmation, Audience Thanks)

Subscribe for more affirming, constructional conversations on resilience, belonging, and neurodiversity. Watch the replay and join the collective!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #AutismParenting #EarlyIntervention #NeurodiversityAffirming #ActuallyAutistic #FamilyResilience #BCBA

This episode meets 1 CEU requirement of the BACB/QABA

Thanks for joining Resilience Coaching Collective!

We explore neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based strategies inspired by Israel Goldiamond’s constructional approach (expanded by T.V. Joe Layng and rooted in B.F. Skinner’s science) that build strengths and repertoires rather than simply eliminate problem behaviors.

This episode is part of our ongoing inclusion initiative, Spectrum Speaks, a Behavioral Teaching Solutions project dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices and creating safe spaces for growth.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to our weekly conversations that turn challenges into lasting capabilities.

Earn Affordable CEUs

Many episodes offer 1 Learning CEU (BACB / QABA-eligible) for just $9.99 USD.

[Purchase here]

(Quiz link and certificate sent via email after payment.)

Connect with us:

www.rccpodcast.com

@belleStike on Instagram | X | Threads

Share feedback or topic ideas: reply anywhere or email [email protected]

Backlog gems from 2025 + fresh episodes in 2026 — see you next time!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA

In this candid, hopeful open forum from Resilience Coaching Collective, host Belle Stikeleather (BCBA & resilience coach) welcomes Dr. David Bergmark (founder of Waypoints ABA) for a deep dive into systemic challenges and practical, strength-based strategies for neurodivergent individuals and families navigating parenting, transitions to adulthood, and inclusive employment. Joined by autistic co-hosts (Aaron, Pao, Alex) and inspiring parents (Becky, Tambria, Danny), the discussion covers:

• Low employment rates (14% of autistic adults in the U.S. hold full-time jobs) and barriers like stigma, support gaps, rigid systems, and long waitlists for benefits.
• Real-life transition challenges (planning independence, Medicaid access, job coaching, cultural shifts in workplaces).
• Strength-based tools: daily routines, communication strategies, empowerment, family-professional partnerships, and inclusive pathways (job coaching, employer education, supported employment).
• Personal stories of resilience, embracing mistakes as learning tools, the power of socialization, and celebrating successes (e.g., autistic pilots, loyal employees).

This session emphasizes collaboration, showing up, presuming competence, and building allies to create accessible, stigma-free futures.

Perfect for parents, educators, professionals, autistic adults, and allies seeking practical, uplifting guidance on employment and transition support.

Key Takeaways:

• Mistakes are powerful tools for growth—embrace them to reach success.
• Inclusive employment boosts productivity and loyalty—companies thrive with neurodivergent strengths.
• Just show up, ask for help, and build connections—it’s the foundation of real change.

This episode meets BACB/QABA CEU requirements.

Timestamps for easy navigation:

• 00:00 – Welcome & Pao’s Icebreaker Question (“Undo 5 mistakes or be successful now?”)
• 01:16 – Group Reflections on Mistakes as Growth Opportunities
• 07:53 – Dr. David Bergmark’s Introduction & Waypoints ABA Overview
• 09:19 – Objectives & Why This Conversation Matters
• 13:06 – Data & Systemic Challenges (Low Employment Rates, Stigma, Waitlists, Benefits Barriers)
• 15:53 – Real-World Transition Stories & Planning Ahead
• 22:10 – Strength-Based Strategies (Daily Routines, Communication Tools, Empowerment, Partnerships)
• 28:00 – Inclusive Employment Pathways & Employer Education
• 33:00 – Q&A & Community Reflections (Socialization, Courage in Independence, Stigma, Connections)
• 46:52 – Closing Thoughts & Call to Action (Collaborate, Show Up, Build Allies)

Thanks for joining Resilience Coaching Collective!

We explore neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based strategies inspired by Israel Goldiamond’s constructional approach (expanded by T.V. Joe Layng and rooted in B.F. Skinner’s science) that build strengths and repertoires rather than simply eliminate problem behaviors.

This episode is part of our ongoing inclusion initiative, Spectrum Speaks, a Behavioral Teaching Solutions project dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices and creating safe spaces for growth.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to our weekly conversations that turn challenges into lasting capabilities.

Earn Affordable CEUs

Many episodes offer 1 Learning CEU (BACB / QABA-eligible) for just $9.99 USD.

[Purchase here]

(Quiz link and certificate sent via email after payment.)

Connect with us:

www.rccpodcast.com

@belleStike on Instagram | X | Threads

Share feedback or topic ideas: reply anywhere or email [email protected]

Backlog gems from 2025 + fresh episodes in 2026 — see you next time!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA

In this raw, heart-pounding during one of the Spectrum Speaks coaching sessions, facilitated by certified BCBA, resilience coach, and neurodiversity advocate Belle Stikeleather (Founder, Behavioral Teaching Solutions & Spectrum Speaks), autistic contributors Aaron, Mina, Alex, and the team dive deep into the emotions society fears: anger as a signal for injustice, sadness as grief from betrayal, and frustration from one-way communication breakdowns.

“If you get really angry, that’s often a sign… legitimate injustices.” – Aaron drops truth bombs on why suppressing emotions worsens everything. 

Mina wrestles the all-or-nothing trap: “I’m trying to find that middle ground of legit emotions… but communicating effectively.” 

Alex shares public fears, while Belle guides strategies like writing letters to express without “high-level emotions” hijacking talks. 

Takeaways? Emotions are possible indicators, not weaknesses—balance them with empathy (speaker + listener), active validation, and RCC tools for collective resilience.

Key Moments:

• 2:15: Why anger/sadness = grief, not “bad behavior”
• 5:40: Communication as a “two-way street” + listener skill gaps
• 8:20: Writing letters > heated talks (team trials it live!)
• Close: “Everything’s going to be all right” – Bob Marley wisdom

Core View on Emotions 

Dr. T. V. Joe Layng, PhD described emotions as constructed descriptors or amplifiers of consequential contingencies - environmental relations between behavior and its outcomes (reinforcers, punishers, evocative events), rather than innate, hardwired physiological states, universal “basic” reactions, or internal causes of behavior. Emotions function as private (non-spoken) indicators of specific situational changes or gaps in contingencies (e.g., fear signals avoidance contingencies; anger signals removal or distance-creating contingencies). Emotional behavior (observable actions like aggression) is analyzed separately as operant classes shaped by consequences, while private emotional experiences serve as clues to guide adaptive responding.

From Dr. Anna Linnehan, PhD:

•  We often assume feelings drive behavior (“I was so angry I yelled”), but scientific evidence shows the opposite: emotions are functions of what’s happening in the world around us.

•  Emotions signal shifts in contingencies—e.g., moving from a challenging situation to relief (nervous before a talk, relieved after).

•  This perspective empowers action: By analyzing behaviors and their outcomes, we can understand why we feel a certain way and change it through new actions.

Your 2026 Action Step: Comment YOUR emotion signal below—what injustice sparked it? Tag a friend building support systems.

Follow Belle @bellestike for weekly RCC playbooks, neurodiversity events, BTS Collective Creative, BTS Cook & Connect & more. Subscribe to Spectrum Speaks newsletter: spectrumspeaksfl.beehiiv.com. Share if you’re able to relate!

 #Neurodiversity #AutisticVoices #RCCFramework #EmotionValidation #ActuallyAutistic

Thanks for joining Resilience Coaching Collective!

We explore neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based strategies inspired by Israel Goldiamond’s constructional approach (expanded by T.V. Joe Layng and rooted in B.F. Skinner’s science) that build strengths and repertoires rather than simply eliminate problem behaviors.

This episode is part of our ongoing inclusion initiative, Spectrum Speaks, a Behavioral Teaching Solutions project dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices and creating safe spaces for growth.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to our weekly conversations that turn challenges into lasting capabilities.

Earn Affordable CEUs

Many episodes offer 1 Learning CEU (BACB / QABA-eligible) for just $9.99 USD.

[Purchase here]

(Quiz link and certificate sent via email after payment.)

Connect with us:

www.rccpodcast.com

@belleStike on Instagram | X | Threads

Share feedback or topic ideas: reply anywhere or email [email protected]

Backlog gems from 2025 + fresh episodes in 2026 — see you next time!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA

Sarah Selvaggi Hernandez, the first openly autistic Deaf elected official, shares her 2017 win, 2024 lawsuit victory for disabled communication rights, and “Living Sensory.” Daily sensory strategies to sustain advocacy without burnout. Sensory needs are neurological necessities, not luxuries. With just $10 from her settlement, she fueled joy and resilience. Learn to build your sensory toolkit, prevent overload, and thrive while fighting injustice.

Key Takeaway: Honor your senses with $10 or $0 to live a regulated, joyful, and impactful life.

Click this link for more information about the lawsuit.

Connect: [email protected] | @TheAutisticOT

Thanks for joining Resilience Coaching Collective!

We explore neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based strategies inspired by Israel Goldiamond’s constructional approach (expanded by T.V. Joe Layng and rooted in B.F. Skinner’s science) that build strengths and repertoires rather than simply eliminate problem behaviors.

This episode is part of our ongoing inclusion initiative, Spectrum Speaks, a Behavioral Teaching Solutions project dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices and creating safe spaces for growth.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to our weekly conversations that turn challenges into lasting capabilities.

Earn Affordable CEUs

Many episodes offer 1 Learning CEU (BACB / QABA-eligible) for just $9.99 USD.

[Purchase here]

(Quiz link and certificate sent via email after payment.)

Connect with us:

www.rccpodcast.com

@belleStike on Instagram | X | Threads

Share feedback or topic ideas: reply anywhere or email [email protected]

Backlog gems from 2025 + fresh episodes in 2026 — see you next time!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA

Autism Awareness Month (April 2025): Launching of Spectrum Speaks (with Aaron, Pao, & Sarah)

In honor of Autism Awareness Month, this special episode of Coaching for Change dives into a powerful and often overlooked topic: masking - the act of camouflaging or suppressing one’s autistic traits to fit in with societal expectations.

Join our keynote speaker, one of our co-host,  Aaron Freed, a neurodivergent writer with Behavioral Teaching Solutions, as he shares his lived experiences and insights on the emotional toll, psychological impact, and social pressure that come with masking.

Whether you’re autistic, a family member, an educator, or a professional, this episode aims to deepen your understanding and compassion, and encourage us all to advocate for authenticity, inclusion, and support over conformity.

Topics covered:

• What is masking and why do autistic individuals do it?

• The emotional and mental health impact of masking

• How to create safe, affirming spaces where autistic people can thrive as their full selves

• Why breaking barriers begins with awareness and acceptance

• Gist of Sarah’s $10 win

 Tune in and be part of this conversation that supports neurodiversity, visibility, and change.

#AutismAwareness #UnmaskingAutism #Neurodiversity #CoachingForChange #InclusionMatters #BehavioralTeachingSolutions #BreakingBarriers #April2026

Thanks for joining Resilience Coaching Collective!

We explore neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based strategies inspired by Israel Goldiamond’s constructional approach (expanded by T.V. Joe Layng and rooted in B.F. Skinner’s science) that build strengths and repertoires rather than simply eliminate problem behaviors.

This episode is part of our ongoing inclusion initiative, Spectrum Speaks, a Behavioral Teaching Solutions project dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices and creating safe spaces for growth.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to our weekly conversations that turn challenges into lasting capabilities.

Earn Affordable CEUs

Many episodes offer 1 Learning CEU (BACB / QABA-eligible) for just $9.99 USD.

[Purchase here]

(Quiz link and certificate sent via email after payment.)

Connect with us:

www.rccpodcast.com

@belleStike on Instagram | X | Threads

Share feedback or topic ideas: reply anywhere or email [email protected]

Backlog gems from 2025 + fresh episodes in 2026 — see you next time!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA

In this episode of Coaching for Change, we explore the Constructional Approach, a powerful framework developed by Dr. Israel Goldiamond (1974, 2002) that shifts the focus from eliminating problems to building meaningful skills and behaviors. Instead of asking, “How do I stop this?”, we ask:

• Where do you want to go?
• Where are you right now? 
• How will you get there?
• How will your goals be maintained?

Additional Questions by Coach Bella:

• What are the barriers?
• Why is this important to you?

We’ll discuss practical applications of this approach in:

• Autism support – Shifting from behavior reduction to skill-building (LaMarca, 2023).
• Mental health – Replacing avoidance with coping and growth (Hayes, Strosahl, & Wilson, 2012).
• Personal development – Overcoming self-doubt through action (Dweck, 2006; Duckworth, 2016).
• Leadership – Creating strong teams and lasting organizational change (Goleman, Boyatzis, & McKee, 2013).

This episode will challenge how you think about behavior change, personal growth, and coaching. If you’re ready to stop fixing and start constructing, this conversation is for you!

Listen now and start building real, lasting change!

References:

•Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House.

•Duckworth, A. (2016). Grit: The power of passion and perseverance. Scribner.

•Goldiamond, I. (2002). Toward a constructional approach to social problems: Ethical and constitutional issues raised by Applied Behavior Analysis. Behavior and Social Issues, 11(2), 108–197. https://doi.org/10.5210/bsi.v11i2.92 

•Goleman, D., Boyatzis, R., & McKee, A. (2001). Primal leadership: The hidden driver of great performance. Harvard business review, 79(11), 42-53.

•Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2012). Acceptance and commitment therapy: The process and practice of mindful change. Guilford Press.

Thanks for joining Resilience Coaching Collective!

We explore neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based strategies inspired by Israel Goldiamond’s constructional approach (expanded by T.V. Joe Layng and rooted in B.F. Skinner’s science) that build strengths and repertoires rather than simply eliminate problem behaviors.

This episode is part of our ongoing inclusion initiative, Spectrum Speaks, a Behavioral Teaching Solutions project dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices and creating safe spaces for growth.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to our weekly conversations that turn challenges into lasting capabilities.

Earn Affordable CEUs

Many episodes offer 1 Learning CEU (BACB / QABA-eligible) for just $9.99 USD.

[Purchase here]

(Quiz link and certificate sent via email after payment.)

Connect with us:

www.rccpodcast.com

@belleStike on Instagram | X | Threads

Share feedback or topic ideas: reply anywhere or email [email protected]

Backlog gems from 2025 + fresh episodes in 2026 — see you next time!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA

In this foundational episode (recorded 2025 as the intro to “Coaching for Change”), host Belle Stikeleather (BCBA, QBA, LBA-NY) opens up about her unexpected path to becoming a resilience coach and behavior scientist. From studying diplomacy and international relations to working aboard a luxury cruise ship, teaching in the UAE, discovering the Competent Learner Model (CLM) Program, earning her BCBA certification, and now pursuing a PhD in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with a focus on coaching and global dissemination, Belle shares the pivots, realizations, and values that shaped her mission.

This episode explores:

•  How cross-cultural experiences ignited a passion for meaningful, individualized change.

•  The moment coaching became her calling—collaborative, constructional, and empowering (inspired by Vicci Tucci’s mentorship).

•  Why the Constructional Approach (Goldiamond, 2002) shifts focus from “fixing challenging behaviors” to building strengths and repertoires.

•  The power of language in learning: “coach” vs. “supervisor” (Tucci, 2009) and how it changes everything.

•  The heart of this podcast: creating safe, affirming spaces for growth through science, compassion, and measurable action.

Correction: completed all required supervision hours (1,500) to be eligible to become a BCBA, check BACB for information. 

Subscribe now for weekly episodes - backlog gems from 2025 + fresh 2026 conversations. Let’s build together.

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA #AutismCoaching #Resilience

References:

•Goldiamond, I. (2002). Functional assessment and constructional analyses. European Journal of Behavior Analysis, 3(2), 19-30.

•Tucci, V. (2009). Competent Learner Model: A progressive model for behavior and learning. Tucci Learning Solutions.

Thanks for joining Resilience Coaching Collective!

We explore neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based strategies inspired by Israel Goldiamond’s constructional approach (expanded by T.V. Joe Layng and rooted in B.F. Skinner’s science) that build strengths and repertoires rather than simply eliminate problem behaviors.

This episode is part of our ongoing inclusion initiative, Spectrum Speaks, a Behavioral Teaching Solutions project dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices and creating safe spaces for growth.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to our weekly conversations that turn challenges into lasting capabilities.

Earn Affordable CEUs

Many episodes offer 1 Learning CEU (BACB / QABA-eligible) for just $9.99 USD.

[Purchase here]

(Quiz link and certificate sent via email after payment.)

Connect with us:

www.rccpodcast.com

@belleStike on Instagram | X | Threads

Share feedback or topic ideas: reply anywhere or email [email protected]

Backlog gems from 2025 + fresh episodes in 2026 — see you next time!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA

Welcome to Resilience Coaching Collective!

Note: This episode was recorded in 2025 under the working title ‘Coaching for Change.’ The heart, mission, and content remain the same—now fully embodied as Resilience Coaching Collective.

 (Recorded in 2025 as the intro to “Coaching for Change” — this timeless episode shares the original vision that evolved into our current name and mission.)

In this heartfelt introduction, host Belle Stikeleather (BCBA & resilience coach) shares her journey and the podcast’s foundation: evidence-based, constructional approaches to lasting behavior change through coaching and behavioral science.

We explore building, strengthening, and maintaining skills with science, compassion, and measurable actions—creating safe spaces for autonomy, growth, and transformation.

 Inspired by B.F. Skinner and Israel Goldiamond (expanded by T. V. Joe Layng) expect practical strategies, expert insights, and real-world tools for coaches, educators, parents, therapists, and anyone curious about human behavior.

Hit subscribe and join us on this journey of meaningful change—turning conversations into action.

New episodes weekly (backlog gems from 2025 + fresh 2026 sessions). Let’s build resilience together!

 #ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA

Thanks for joining Resilience Coaching Collective!

We explore neurodiversity-affirming, evidence-based strategies inspired by Israel Goldiamond’s constructional approach (expanded by T.V. Joe Layng and rooted in B.F. Skinner’s science) that build strengths and repertoires rather than simply eliminate problem behaviors.

This episode is part of our ongoing inclusion initiative, Spectrum Speaks, a Behavioral Teaching Solutions project dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices and creating safe spaces for growth.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to our weekly conversations that turn challenges into lasting capabilities.

Earn Affordable CEUs

Many episodes offer 1 Learning CEU (BACB / QABA-eligible) for just $9.99 USD.

[Purchase here]

(Quiz link and certificate sent via email after payment.)

Connect with us:

www.rccpodcast.com

@belleStike on Instagram | X | Threads

Share feedback or topic ideas: reply anywhere or email [email protected]

Backlog gems from 2025 + fresh episodes in 2026 — see you next time!

#ResilienceCoachingCollective #ConstructionalApproach #Neurodiversity #ActuallyAutistic #BCBA