Beyond The Science Podcast

An ABA clinic can bring in millions and still struggle to make payroll. Kurston Williams, founder of Bounce Back Financial, explains why cash can remain tight even as a practice grows, and how better financial systems can help clinic owners make stronger decisions. He also shares how a serious car accident, a long recovery, and his experience as a father shaped his work in ABA.In this episode, Kurston discusses:Why strong revenue or paper profits don’t always mean cash is availableHow reimbursement rates and fee schedules affect marginsWhy billing, accounting, and financial planning need to work togetherHow cash flow and strong systems can prepare a clinic to growHow his son’s autism journey shaped his perspective on advocacy and careWatch the full conversation for an honest look at ABA finances, fatherhood, and resilience. If you run an ABA practice, visit bouncebackcfo.com to connect with Kirsten and explore how Bounce Back Financial can support your clinic.Timestamps:(00:00) Kurston Williams’ Story(08:42) Fatherhood and His Son’s Autism Journey(13:08) Advice for Parents and Fathers(15:03) How Fatherhood Shapes His Business(17:44) What Bounce Back Financial Does(19:36) The ABA Industry’s Cash Flow Challenges(21:20) Fee Schedules, Margins, and Rate Cuts(27:47) Is Scaling an ABA Practice Sustainable?(31:42) ABA Finance Rapid-Fire Questions(34:58) Financial Scenarios for ABA Owners(38:03) Bounce Back Financial(39:29) Preparing for His Son’s Future(42:33) A Message to His Son’s Mother(44:41) The Legacy He Hopes to Leave(46:16) His Most Memorable Football GameBTS is powered by Bounce Back Financial, a financial partner helping founder-led ABA practices strengthen their finances, improve cash flow, and build sustainable growth through revenue cycle management, bookkeeping, and fractional CFO services.To learn more, visit: https://www.bouncebackcfo.com/Follow Beyond the Science and join your hosts Jeron, Joe, and Coop as they dive deep into the world of ABA, exploring fresh perspectives, untold stories, and the heart beyond the science.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondTheSciencePodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond.the.science.pod Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-science/id1813418906 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/beyond-the-science-pod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beyond.the.science Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14n31Si3eW/ Website: https://www.bmbanetwork.org#ABA #ABAtherapy #AppliedBehaviorAnalysis #ABAbusiness #ABAclinic #ABAowners #BehaviorAnalysis #HealthcareFinance #RevenueCycleManagement #CashFlowManagement #PracticeManagement #BCBA #Autism #BounceBackFinancial #BeyondTheSigns

ABA is way bigger than autism. So why do we keep putting behavior science in such a small box?Dr. Jared Van joins the BTS crew for a real conversation about behavior science, Black identity, mental health, education, and where the field can go next.A few highlights:ABA goes far beyond autism. Dr. Jared breaks down what behavior science can actually do in the real world.Identity matters. He shares how growing up Black in predominantly white spaces shaped the person, researcher, and educator he became.Who defines “professional”? The crew gets into dress codes, respectability politics, authenticity, and Black self-expression.ABA has some history to reckon with. Jared talks openly about past harms and why criticism of the field deserves to be heard.Behavior science has a much bigger future. Mental health, education, sports, and beyond are all part of the conversation.Come for the science. Stay for the conversation.Watch the full episode of Beyond the Science.Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Dr. Jared Van(01:46) Research, Mental Health & Precision Teaching(08:00) Growing Up Black in the Bay Area(11:55) Racism, Bullying & Finding Your Identity(16:35) Advice for Earning a Doctorate(19:41) Credentials, PhDs & PsyDs(21:23) Life Coaches vs. Licensed Therapists(23:11) Tuskegee, Dress Codes & Professionalism(31:07) Respectability Politics & Black Identity(38:42) Using Behavior Science to Create Impact(41:14) Disproportionality in Special Education(43:15) ABA Is More Than Autism(45:54) ABA vs. Autism Services vs. Behavior Science(48:36) The Problems and Potential of ABA(51:27) Marriage, Psychology & Behavior Science(52:49) J. Cole, Kendrick, Drake & LeBron(55:11) Freestyle SessionFollow Beyond the Science and join your hosts Jeron, Joe, and Coop as they dive deep into the world of ABA, exploring fresh perspectives, untold stories, and the heart beyond the science.YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondTheSciencePod⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/beyond.the.science.pod⁠ Apple Podcasts: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-science/id1813418906⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/beyond-the-science-pod/⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@beyond.the.science⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/14n31Si3eW/⁠ Website: ⁠https://www.bmbanetwork.org⁠ #JaredVan #BeyondTheScience #BlackMenInABA #AppliedBehaviorAnalysis #ABA #BehaviorAnalysis #BehaviorScience #BCBA #BlackMentalHealth #BlackIdentity #BlackProfessionals #PrecisionTeaching #SpecialEducation #MentalHealthInABA #DiversityInABA

The BMBA Summit is back in Atlanta, and it’s bringing much more than keynotes and CEUs.In this episode of Beyond the Science, the team gives an inside look at this year’s Summit, from the speaker lineup and new workshops to RBT opportunities, mentorship, networking, and the social events that make this conference different.Inside the episode:What RBTs can expect, including PDUs, mentorship, and networkingKey conversations around authenticity, leadership, ethics, and clinical excellenceNew career and business opportunities beyond traditional ABA rolesThe Thought Exchange and lessons from leaders in the fieldBasketball, Fellowship Lounge, the Block Party, and the community behind the conferenceWhether you’re an RBT, BCBA, student, business owner, or ally, this episode shows what the BMBA Summit is really about and why you may want to be there.Watch the full episode and get ready for Atlanta.Timestamps:(00:00) — Welcome & Summit Preview(01:29) — What Makes the BMBA Summit Different(02:39) — The Vision Behind the Summit(04:58) — Community, Mentorship & Networking(05:38) — Thursday Workshops & Fellowship Lounge(06:36) — Friday Keynote & Speaker Lineup(07:45) — What RBTs Can Expect(09:13) — Friday Sessions & Panels(13:01) — The Thought Exchange(14:40) — Saturday Keynote & RBT Career Growth(16:07) — Taking the Leap Beyond Direct Therapy(18:29) — Ethics, Mentorship & Leadership(20:29) — New Ways to Build a Career in ABA(22:00) — Basketball & Summit Social Events(23:54) — Saturday Night Block Party(24:42) — Who Should Attend the Summit(26:58) — Registration & Final InvitationJoin Us at the 2026 BMBA Summit in Atlanta, September 3–6. Get your tickets and learn more about the conference here: https://behaviorlive.com/conferences/bmba26/registrationFollow Beyond the Science and Join your hosts Jeron, Joseph and Darius as they dive deep into the world of ABA. Exploring fresh perspectives, untold stories, and the heart beyond the science.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondTheSciencePod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond.the.science.pod Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-science/id1813418906 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/beyond-the-science-pod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beyond.the.science Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14n31Si3eW/ Website: https://www.bmbanetwork.org#BMBA #BMBA26 #ABA #AppliedBehaviorAnalysis #BehaviorAnalysis #BCBA #RBT #ABACommunity #ABAPodcast #ABACareers #ABALeadership #BehaviorAnalysisCommunity

What does it really take to build an ABA clinic from the ground up?In this special episode of Beyond the Science, we celebrate the grand opening of 3K ABA and co-host Darius Cooper's journey from Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) to clinic owner.Coop shares the challenges, sacrifices, financial realities, and leadership lessons that came with building one of the first Black-owned ABA clinics in Locust Grove. Along the way, we take a behind-the-scenes tour of the clinic, hear from family, friends, and community leaders, and discuss the impact 3K ABA hopes to make for families across the region.Key takeaways from this episode:What it really costs to open an ABA clinicThe lessons learned from building a business from scratchWhy community impact matters more than growth aloneThe importance of Black leadership and representation in ABAHow Sapphire AI could shape the future of behavioral healthcareA behind-the-scenes look at the grand opening of 3K ABAWhether you're a behavior analyst, RBT, entrepreneur, or someone interested in opening your own clinic, this episode offers practical insights and an inspiring story of perseverance, leadership, and community.If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share.Timestamps:(00:00) Grand Opening of 3K ABA(00:53) What It Takes to Build an ABA Clinic(02:03) Serving the Local Community(02:47) From RBT to Clinic Owner(04:04) Celebrating the Grand Opening(05:33) The Vision Behind 3K ABA(07:17) Leadership & Community Impact(07:55) Sapphire AI and the Future of ABA(08:46) Tour of 3K ABA(09:41) Therapy Rooms & Clinical Services(10:39) Sensory Spaces & Daily Therapy(11:31) Supporting Families in Locust Grove(12:43) Family Reflections(13:45) A Mother's Perspective(14:38) Messages from Family & Friends(17:48) Final Thoughts & Congratulations#BeyondTheScience #ABA #BehaviorAnalysis #ABAClinic #BehaviorAnalyst #RBT #BCBA #AutismServices #BlackOwnedBusiness #Entrepreneurship #HealthcareLeadership #BehavioralHealth

AI is transforming ABA faster than most people realize — and according to Dr. Adam Ventura, behavior analysts who ignore it risk falling behind.In this episode of Beyond the Science, Dr. Ventura explores how AI is reshaping behavior analysis, education, leadership, and the future of human work itself. From ethical clinical practice and burnout prevention to parenting, mentorship, and the “meaning crisis” surrounding automation, this conversation goes far beyond technology.Key insights from this episode:Why AI may soon become essential in ethical clinical practice How Intraverbal AI helps behavior analysts save time and improve outcomes The biggest AI threat may not be extinction — but loss of meaning and human connection Why human-centered fields like ABA could be safer than most industries The leadership and mindset shifts professionals need to adapt to the AI era How AI could transform education, business, and behavior analysis over the next decade If you work in ABA, healthcare, education, or leadership, this episode will challenge how you think about the future of work and human connection. Watch now. Timestamps:(00:00) Intro(00:33) Dr. Adam Ventura Is Back(03:00) Exercise and Stress Management(04:37) What Intraverbal AI Does(05:55) AI Tutor for BACB Exam Prep(08:54) Why RBT Training Is Coming Later(10:22) Helping Behavior Analysts Focus on ABA(11:50) AI Ethics and Behavior Analysis(13:01) Using AI for Evidence Based Practice(15:13) What ABA Could Look Like in 2032(17:58) Why Human Focused Fields Are Safer(19:18) Meaning Risk and AI Automation(22:18) AI in Business and Education(23:28) Generational Wisdom and Technology(27:44) Leadership and Passion Explained(29:47) Advice for Young Leaders(30:46) Mentorship vs Coaching(35:46) Parenting Boys and Girls(38:32) Balancing Family and Business(40:50) Cuban Culture and Language Learning(43:26) Why You Should Learn AI Now#BeyondTheScience #ArtificialIntelligence #ABA #BehaviorAnalysis #AIinHealthcare #BACB #LeadershipDevelopment #MentalHealth #FutureOfWork #AIandEducation #EntrepreneurMindset #HealthcareInnovation

In this special Mother’s Day episode of Beyond the Science, we honor the women who carried us through life with love, sacrifice, strength, and grace.We welcome our mothers onto the show for an honest and emotional conversation about motherhood, family, faith, resilience, and the sacrifices that shaped our lives.Filled with laughter, gratitude, tears, and reflection, this episode is a celebration of the women whose love held everything together — even during the hardest seasons.Together, we reflect on:The sacrifices our mothers made behind the scenes Growing up through difficult times The strength and beauty of Black motherhood Faith, resilience, and family values Emotional conversations between sons and mothers Lessons passed down through generations Gratitude for the women who gave us everything Happy Mother’s Day to every woman whose love became the foundation for someone else’s life.Timestamps (00:00) – Mother’s Day Special Introduction (02:03) – Mothers’ Introductions & Personal Journeys (09:56) – The Challenges of Motherhood (14:39) – Celebrating Their Children’s Achievements (17:36) – Sons Reflect on Their Mothers’ Sacrifices (24:23) – Moments of Struggle & Sacrifice (31:39) – Straight Talk with Mom (36:45) – Favorite Family Traditions & Holidays (41:46) – Reflections on Motherhood, Legacy & Faith (46:04) – Advice for Other Mothers (52:48) – Final Reflections & Mother’s Day Message#BeyondTheScience #MothersDaySpecial #BlackMotherhood #MotherhoodJourney #FamilyLegacy #FaithAndFamily #MentalHealthConversations #EntrepreneurMindset #PersonalGrowth #PodcastClips

Is AI about to change behavior analysis forever?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Adam Ventura, founder of Intraverbal AI, to unpack what’s really happening at the intersection of artificial intelligence and ABA and what it means for clinicians, researchers, and practice owners right now.We explore:Whether AI could become part of your ABA treatment teamThe ethical concerns the field can’t ignoreHow AI is transforming session notes, reports, and researchWhy ABA may be moving faster than it’s ready forA bold prediction for where AI and ABA are headed by 2030 We also go beyond technology, diving into leadership, decision-making, parenting, and what it means to build something that lasts. If you’re a BCBA, RBT, clinic owner, student, or simply curious about the future of ABA, this conversation will challenge how you think about AI.🎧 Watch now and decide for yourself:Is AI a breakthrough tool… or a risky shortcut?Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:38 Personal Updates & Adam’s Big News02:44 What Is Intraverbal AI04:02 Balancing Product Development vs Sales05:37 Favorite Tools in the Intraverbal Toolbox08:04 AI in ABA Hype Vs. Reality12:27 AI Ethics and Accountability Concerns16:56 AI Agents Developing Their Own Language20:10 Elon Musk, Robots and the Future of AI20:50 Could AI Join ABA Treatment Teams?25:08 New Research Initiative and Literature Analysis28:27 AI and New Discoveries in Behavior Analysis31:43 Straight Talk With Joe33:51 Arguing in Front of Kids37:39 Marriage, Society & Modern Dating39:59 The Benefits of Marriage44:55 Healthy vs Unhealthy Arguments52:00 Intraverbal Updates and Predictions55:22 Coop’s Off The Clock

What happens when empathy meets smart technology in ABA?In this episode of Beyond the Science, we sit down with Charlene Kurth, COO of Office Puzzle, to explore how one practice management platform is helping ABA providers run smarter, scale sustainably, and reduce daily stress.Charlene shares her path from psychology and analytics into ABA tech, and why Office Puzzle was built to support people, not just data.In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why broken systems, not care, hold practices back- How Office Puzzle unifies scheduling, notes, billing, and compliance- Where AI actually helps (and where it shouldn’t)- Why affordable, flexible tools matter for growth- How customer support and community drive successIf you’re an ABA provider, clinic owner, or clinician looking for better systems without burnout, this episode is for you.👉 Watch now and discover a smarter way to run your practice. Timestamps:00:38 Meet Charlene of Office Puzzle02:08 Charlene’s background and career path04:23 Day-to-day role as COO05:12 Advice for aspiring leaders06:47 Origin of the Office Puzzle name08:46 Key pain points Office Puzzle solves12:48 HIPAA compliance and data security13:26 AI features and note generation16:23 Common mistakes business owners make20:55 The biggest challenge in the field22:29 Proudest moments and team growth23:35 Provider success story25:34 Straight Talk with Joe28:46 Supporting small and growing practices30:30 All-in-one pricing and accessibility32:36 Long-term vision for Office Puzzle34:17 Expanding services and position in the market38:20 Georgia pilot program teaser43:21 Industry perspective and competition45:10 Empathy and community impact47:30 Coop’s Off the Clock

This Holiday Special brings all the vibes: laughter, games, and real talk.Jeron, Joe, and Coop are back in their ugly sweaters for a festive episode filled with holiday debates, movie face-offs, and a Christmas dinner draft that gets surprisingly competitive. But between the jokes, they open up about family, loss, and what the holidays really mean to them as fathers, friends, and business owners. In this episode:• Fun holiday showdowns: movies, traditions, music, and the ultimate dinner plate• How dads balance joy, pressure, and family expectations this season• Behind the Sapphire AI launch and what it taught about community• Honest talk on grief, forgiveness, and navigating tough moments during the holidays• Quick insights on Georgia insurance changes every ABA family should know A warm, entertaining, and genuinely heartfelt episode to close out the year.Press play and celebrate the season with the Beyond the Science crew. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:30 Holiday Special Begins01:42 Parenting, Presence, and Christmas Balance03:04 Holiday Traditions and Family Life06:08 Recap of the Sapphire AI Launch10:21 Coping with Loss During the Holidays14:39 Holiday Movie Showdown17:37 Overrated or Underrated Holiday Edition21:32 Straight Talk with Joe: Georgia Insurance Changes26:01 One Tip for Starting an ABA Business27:34 Holiday Dinner Plate Draft30:20 Coop’s Off the Clock31:31 Ultimate Artist Showdown

🔥 At FABA, one of ABA’s most respected researchers sits down for a rare, unfiltered conversation and the insights are game-changing. Dr. Bill Ahearn, Director of Research at the New England Center for Children, opens up about the state of ABA today, the misconceptions holding practitioners back, and the breakthroughs that could reshape how we understand automatically reinforced behavior, social skills, and early-career supervision. Here’s What We Dive into:✨ Why automatically reinforced behaviors require fresh strategies and how new research is shifting best practices.✨ How the field is failing early-career BCBAs and what must change to support competent, confident practitioners.✨ The real reason social-skills training lags behind and how to build interventions that actually transfer to real-world environments. If you care about the future of ABA, or want to sharpen your own practice, this episode is a must-watch.👉 Tune in now and level up your understanding of the field.Timestamps:0:00 Intro0:47 FABA Podcast Presentation and Dr. Bill’s Intro4:24 Dr. Bill’s Research and Excitement8:56 Challenges and Successes in the Field16:16 Impact of New RBT Requirements18:22 Post-COVID Generations and Social Skills Training25:10 Rapid Fire Questions And Reflections32:23 Final Thoughts and Appreciation33:53 Where to find Dr. Bill online