Shows
Function Junction:Behavior MattersHip Hip Hooray!Susan and Cissy talk all the time about how behavioral concepts are involved in everything we do. It is even involved when we make decisions about how to help ourselves with medical issues like hip pain. Susan shares about the journey to getting a hip replacement. From the way the doctor talks with her to the way she prepares herself for the surgery and even to the necessary things after the surgery, behavioral concepts can be seen. Have a listen. Let us know what you think about the question. Thank you for listening. Please come back next week!2024-03-2220 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersDr. Gray Talks Executive Functioning - Part 2Dr. Amanda Gray continues her conversation with Susan and Cissy about executive functioning. You don't have to be on the spectrum to have executive functioning problems. We have almost all had moments of executive dysfunction when hurried or under stress. This could look like being late for an appointment because after an out of order kind of morning, you could not find your keys. They talk about how trauma can impact executive functioning too. She goes on to say that executive functioning and theory of mind can look very different for each person. Cissy and Susan hope you take away a...2024-03-1536 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersHoliday Memories and BehaviorSusan and Cissy talk about holiday memories and the potential behavior concepts behind those memories. Listen for the level of stimulus discrimination Cissy's Mom showed. Also, listen for some magic Susan had one year. We hope you enjoy these stories of sweet times from the past. There is not a question this week. We want to be sure to thank Troy Payne for all the work he does for us getting the episodes ready as our audio editor and producer. Thanks too to Joe (Cissy's husband) who serves as our executive producer. Happy Holidays! Be sure to check out Bloss...2023-12-2215 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersHolidays - Travel - SafetySusan and Cissy talk about handling the challenges of holidays and all the changes to regular routines brought on by the celebrations. They also give some tips about traveling and safety. Many of the tips have been learned from families who have successfully managed these kinds of things. Function Junction hopes this is a happy season for all of our listeners. We are thankful for each of you.2023-12-0132 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersA Hidden Force - Part 2Susan and Cissy are back for the rest of their conversation with Ed Thompson of Uptimize. He points out that innovation is critical for businesses to remain relevant. He makes the point that neurodiverse people think differently from many of us and have quite a bit to offer with ideas related to innovation. Be sure to grab his book, A Hidden Force. It will get you thinking! He gives lots of great ideas about interviewing. One important point is asking questions to help make sure the new company is a good fit for the person interviewing. Stay for the...2023-11-2428 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersA Hidden ForceEd Thompson is the CEO of Uptimize which is dedicated to helping employers hire and retain talent that thinks differently. He is the Author of A Hidden Force: Unlocking the Potential of Neurodiversity at Work. In this first half of their conversation, he talks with Susan and Cissy about the formation of the company and the development of the book. His book explores how neurodiversity has been overlooked, why embracing neurodiversity is beneficial, and how to take new understanding of neurodiversity into our lives and work places. Stay for the question and be sure to come back for...2023-11-1727 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersReinforcement Matters - the Application of Reinforcers Matters Too!Susan and Cissy talk about the importance of reinforcement. It is not just the use of reinforcement, but making sure to get it right. Is what you are using something the person will be want? Is everyone working with the individual applying reinforcement in the same way? Cissy and Susan have been lucky enough to work with many individuals with very interesting reinforcers which make for interesting ways to learn about the topic. They have made mistakes with reinforcers and seen others make errors. Have a listen and gather some ideas. Stay for the question. Thank you for listening.2023-11-1016 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersPersuasive Interview - Part 2Susan and Cissy continue their conversation with Ramon Santillan. Ramon has written the book "Big 4 Interview Questions" that helps individuals think through the kinds of questions that are asked in interviews. He also shares ideas about answering those questions sharing your own strengths that highlight skills an interviewing company is looking for. Have a listen to his ideas and grab his book to help with the interviewing process. Don't forget the question at the end. Please come back next week2023-11-0332 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersPersuasive Interview - Part 1Ramon Santillan of www.persuasiveinterview.com talked with Susan and Cissy about coaching individuals with autism to get ready for better interviews. Ramon started his career as a tax consultant, but now shares strategies for finding work with individuals who struggle in the job search and interview processes. He helps people in all kinds of careers. He likes that he does not have repeat customers. His clients are finding work and not needing him again. He shares ideas that could be great for everyone. This is part 1 of 2. Stay for the question and be sure to come back for the nex...2023-10-2729 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersBehavior Change is EverywhereSusan and Cissy share several stories about changing behaviors. The ideas can be applied with just about anyone. They talk about the importance of choosing the most important behavior at the time, thinking through the function, and finding the best change process. Have a listen and give the question a try. They hope you get an idea that can help you.2023-10-2037 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersWorld Class Advocate: Louis Geigerman - Part 2Louis continues the conversation with Susan and Cissy by talking about two groups that center around advocacy. The Council of Parent attorneys and Advocates is a national group. Members of Texas Organization of Parent Attorneys and Advocates strive to empower students and families to assert and protect their education rights. Louis is the President of TOPPA. He shares great ideas for helping individuals get into college or be ready for a job. Remember to check out The Benjamin J. Geigerman Lecture Series at http://www.geigermanlecture.com. Stay for the question and come back next week. Thank you for listen...2023-10-1329 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersGray Area: Better Planning - Part 2Dr. Amanda Gray continues to share very important information related to autism, ADHD, executive functioning, and theory of mind. She talks about a study out of Australia that suggests that girls with autism may actually outnumber boys with autism, but they have just gone undiagnosed. Her discussion about ADHD has Cissy thinking about her attention skills. She shares a bit about Executive Functioning prompting Susan and Cissy to suggest the three find time in the future to get into that more. Enjoy the wisdom. Stay for the question. Come back next week. Thank you for listening.2023-09-2934 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersGray Area: Better Planning - Part 1Join Susan and Cissy in a conversation with Dr. Amanda Gray. Dr. Gray is a Licensed Psychologist near the Dallas area. She has experience as a school psychologist, but has moved to private practice. In this first half of the conversation, she talks about the difficulties of navigating getting the diagnosis of autism and getting to the supports that are needed, particularly for girls. She notes that boys with with autism and less academic needs may also not always get the supports they need. She reminds listeners that there is a difference between a medical diagnosis and an educational elig...2023-09-2228 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersSystematically Artful InterventionsSusan shares stories about changing behaviors systematically and carefully. She also emphasizes the "art" of applying the science of behavior change. It is important in teaching individuals with disabilities, but can be applied to our everyday life as we want to change our own behavior or teach others in our circle. Hope you enjoy this week. Stay for the question, and come back next week2023-09-1522 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersArtist, Writer, Nerd (not) - Part 2Please enjoy the rest of Susan's and Cissy's conversation with Brennan Fuller. Brennan has a great analogy about autism for helping others understand it. He also shares some very interesting vocabulary words. He researches all kinds of things and talks about some of those things. He sure made Susan and Cissy think about supporting individuals with autism and making sure that lessons are interesting. He also seems wise beyond his years in so many ways. Hope you stay for the question.2023-09-0924 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersArtist, Writer, Nerd (not) - Part 2Please enjoy the rest of Susan's and Cissy's conversation with Brennan Fuller. Brennan has a great analogy about autism for helping others understand it. He also shares some very interesting vocabulary words. He researches all kinds of things and talks about some of those things. He sure made Susan and Cissy think about supporting individuals with autism and making sure that lessons are interesting. He also seems wise beyond his years in so many ways. Hope you stay for the question.2023-09-0819 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersArtist, Writer, Nerd (not) - Part 1Brennan Fuller is an amazing 16-year-old who is very interested in biology and is an artist. He is also on the autism spectrum. Brennan drops lots of wisdom on Cissy and Susan as he talks about where he wants to go in life. Their conversation covers everything from Dungeons and Dragons to COVID quarantine. Stay for the question today, but come back for the rest of the conversation next week. Thank you for listening.2023-09-0122 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersBack to School 2023: Back to Function Junction Behavior MattersSeason 3 is here! Susan and Cissy talk about getting back to school and thinking about ABA concepts that are highly detailed for intervention, but happen almost automatically for many typically developing children. Have a listen and think about the children you know and how they may have acquired concepts without direct instruction. You may also pick up a few new words to drop at a cocktail party (ha ha). Welcome back. Thank you for listening. stay for the question.2023-08-1121 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersSummer Tired - End of Season 2Susan and Cissy are wrapping up Season 2 with a quick talk about what summer break can mean to students, parents, teachers, etc. We hope that you have enjoyed the guests this season as much as we did. We hope you learned some new things like we did. We will be back in August. Have a look at the episodes to see if there are some you have missed.2023-05-2617 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersMaking Sense of Sensory Needs - Part 2Susan and Cissy continue their conversation with Laura Dowdy Northcutt about sensory activities. She has experience in clinics, hospitals, and schools. Her knowledge of how specific activities can help us regulate our attention and movement is very helpful. She shares many practical ideas and emphasizes watching what a person is doing and even engaging in the behavior to gain insight. Be sure to check out the things she has allowed us to share on our website - function junction.org. Also, stay for the question.2023-05-1931 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersMaking Sense of Sensory Needs - Part 1Susan and Cissy had the privilege of talking with Laura Dowdy Northcutt. Laura is an occupational therapist with a wealth of experience helping individuals with motor needs and developing skills needed to take care of their daily living needs. The sensory system is certainly involved in our ability to move through our day and take care of ourselves. She and Cindy Castillo, a BCBA, developed a training to help school staff look at the sensory needs of their students. She also has a great deal of experience with dyslexia and serves as the Assistant Director of Responsive Services for a sc...2023-05-1239 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersCartoons and Screen Time ThoughtsSusan and Cissy have a quick conversation about how watching cartoons and other videos has changed over time. When we think about things that we satiate on such as food, they lose their reinforcement value when we have had enough. It seems that many of us do not satiate on screen time. Do you satiate on screen time? Do you know others who do not? How do you manage your screen time? Stay for the question at the end.2023-05-0518 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersPromoting Advocacy - Family to Family - Part 2Susan and Cissy continue their conversation with Judy Blake of Family to Family. She talks about supporting families and helping them prepare for the future as well as her own son who is on the spectrum. She shares how she used his strengths and interests to help him. As a reminder, Family to Family is hosting "Autism 101 Academy" on April 29th, 2023. You can find more information at their website www.f2fn.org. Have a look at all they do. stay for the question at the end of this episode.2023-04-2831 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersPromoting Advocacy - Family to Family - Part 1Susan and Cissy talk with Judy Blake from Family to Family. Her role with the organization is working with parents, grandparents, etc. to help them learn to advocate for their family member. Judy has a child on the spectrum who is an adult and talks about trying to navigate the diagnosis all those years ago. With her vast experience and knowledge, she talks about how much she has learned from other families and professionals. Family to Family is hosting "Autism 101 Academy" on April 29th. You can find more information at their website www.f2fn.org. Have a look at al...2023-04-2131 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersNew Prevalence Numbers for AutismSusan and Cissy talk about the prevalence data about autism from the CDC. The numbers continue to increase. They talk about why that may be and what we are learning from the data that the CDC and some other studies have shared. The timing of the episode seems appropriate as it is being published during Autism Awareness and Acceptance month. Please share your ideas about why the numbers continue to grow. Stay for the question.2023-04-1426 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersGetting Roped Into Texas - Part 2Susan and Cissy continue their conversation with Chad Pallodino about his work with students with autism. It is clear that Chad has a passion for helping students with autism and other disabilities. He does a great job talking about approaching challenges, seeing where the individual is, and getting them to the next step. He also talks about work on his doctorate, which is a very interesting topic. Stay for the question. Thank you for listening.2023-04-0735 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersGetting Roped Into TexasChad Palladino is new to Texas, but not to the field of autism. Susan and Cissy get a chance to have a talk with him about how he started working with people with autism and how he got to Texas. This episode is the first half of the conversation. Chad has a great deal of training and study that he uses to support students and staff. Cissy and Susan hope you enjoy learning from Chad. Stay for the question.2023-03-3130 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersSpring Break Pondering and DataAs the podcast was recorded, the CDC had just published the latest prevalence of autism. Susan and Cissy talk briefly about that and then move into some observations Susan made while on Spring Break. The conversation was a reminder that we should all learn from one another. Some people are great teachers. Some people are great behavior analysts. It is important that everyone who is trying to help others learn new skills or change behavior listen to one another. Collaboration brings great things. Thank you for listening and stay for the question.2023-03-2427 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersWhy Worry?!Cathy Bowen is a long time educator and behavior specialist. She and Susan had a conversation about the concept of "worry". This made Susan suggest that Cathy be a guest on the podcast to examine this topic. Susan, Cissy, and Cathy have a great time talking about worry. They share ideas about why we do it, what the functions may be, and what we can do about it. They share many of the concepts from Applied Behavior Analysis that contribute to maintaining the behavior of worry, but also talk about it in a cognitive behavioral way as well as pokin...2023-03-1731 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersUnassuming Hero - Part 2Susan and Cissy continue their conversation with Susan Parker. Susan's work as a teacher and then a Specialist for Region 4 Education Service Center give her a rich knowledge of important things happening in and for schools. Please enjoy her very grounded talk about how things have developed in Texas schools - and where things are going. Stay for the question. Thank you for listening!2023-03-1030 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersUnassuming Hero - Part 1Susan Parker has recently retired from Region 4 Education Service Center. Texas has 20 Education Service Centers that provide training and support to their areas. Susan has given decades of service to special education students and staff in Texas with the bulk of that support at Region 4. She shares a bit about her history of getting to the service center in this first half. What you may not get from the conversation is something that Cissy and Susan know. Susan Parker is one of those people who is going to give projects her all with little need for recognition. Please enjoy this...2023-03-0331 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersCelebrating Two Years!Susan and Cissy talk about how much they have learned and how their behaviors have changed over the last two years of the podcast. They reminisce about many of the fun people who have contributed to the growth of this project that they started conceiving during the pandemic. Thank you all for listening and letting them have the joy of talking about behavior change.2023-02-2419 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersSuperhero Secrets For Teachers - Part 2Enjoy the second part of Susan's and Cissy's conversation with the authors of "Superhero Secrets For Teachers - Behavior Analysis In The Classroom". Bev and Natalie talk more about their book and some of the information within it. They also share fun stories from the book and their careers. Gather some secrets from the conversation and grab the book. Stay for the question.2023-02-1730 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersSuperhero Secrets For Teachers- Part 1Susan and Cissy enjoy the opportunity to talk with the authors of the book "Superhero Secrets for Teachers: Behavior Analysis in the Classroom". Beverly Smith and Natalie Perkel have taken complicated topics and created a text that clearly explains ABA concepts in fun ways. They give insight into how they met and started thinking about their book. Please enjoy the first half of this great conversation with these talented ladies. Stay for the question.2023-02-1031 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersGeorge Loves FBA's! - Part 2Susan and Cissy continue their conversation with George Simos. He talks about a student that influenced his desire to pursue ABA as a career. He also shares how sometimes small progress can be very important to an individual. He talks about finding people to help be an example to develop oneself and how he is preparing for the BCBA exam. Thank you for listening and give the question a try.2023-02-0324 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersGeorge Loves FBA's! - Part 1Susan and Cissy have a great conversation with George Simos. George is a Functional Behavior Evaluator for a school district. He talks about how much he enjoys the process of evaluating students' behavior to help find the function and come up with a plan to help make a positive impact on their learning. Have a listen to this really sharp guy. He will get you thinking. Stay for the question!2023-01-2730 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersDifferent Trails to a Common Path - Part 2Have a listen to the second half of Susan's and Cissy's conversation with Chelsea and Rachel. They give us some insight into how ABA is a part of raising animals and their own children. Sometimes the things we learn explain our behavioral history and sometimes it changes how we help our own family members learn. Please enjoy and stay for the question at the end.2023-01-1329 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersDifferent Trails to a Common Path - Part 1Susan and Cissy have a talk with Rachel and Chelsea about ABA concepts in their lives. Both ladies are studying to become Board Certified Behavior Analysts and have interesting lives in which the concepts fit. They work together in a school district in the Houston area helping teachers and students with special needs. The first part of our conversation with them is, for the most part, about how behavior became a focus for their careers and how they decided to work on BCBA certification. Stay for the question and come back next week for the rest of their conversation.2023-01-0635 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersResolutions? Happy New Year - 2023Susan and Cissy talk about the history behind New Year's resolutions as well as the science related to why they are successful or not. They share ideas for helping make resolutions work for you. Susan and Cissy hope that the new year brings joy to you. Stay for the question and the coming year.2022-12-3019 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersThe Gift of FriendshipSusan and Cissy have a great conversation with Troy Payne. Troy does the editing for the podcast and could also be called the production engineer. He has certainly been a gift to the hosts and the podcast. He talks about several things. One of the most fascinating is how his admiration for Mickey Gilley's music became a true friendship with the artist. We hope that you enjoy listening to Troy. Follow those dreams - Happy Holidays 2022-12-2341 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersFacing Challenges and Caring Dearly - Part 1Susan and Cissy have a conversation with Debarshi Kundu. Susan has known Debarshi since he was in high school. He was diagnosed with autism at that time and talks about the challenges he has faced along the way. He has gone on to graduate from the University of Texas at Austin and listeners will hear that he can self-reflect better than many. This is the first of a three part conversation with an amazing person. Have a listen and stay for the question at the end.2022-12-0227 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersBlack Friday and Behavioral ScienceSusan talks about the history of Black Friday and great deal she recently managed at the grocery store. They also give some of the behavioral science behind why Black Friday works so well. Happy Shopping - hope you enjoy. Stay for the question.2022-11-2515 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersLet's Talk About 'Thank You'Susan and Cissy share about being thankful and have a discussion about how "thank you" fits into verbal behavior. November is a great time to reflect on things for which we are thankful and, of course, behavior analysts have to take apart the behavioral aspect of things people do. Have a listen and see if you agree. Feel free to share your disagreement (or agreement) with the answer to the question at the end.2022-11-1820 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersTEACCH Me with Kathy Hearsey - Part 2Join Susan and Cissy for the second half of their conversation with Kathy Hearsey. Kathy is the Director of Training for TEACCH at UNC. She is bound to make you think about the whole child, the whole person, and what is important in the long run. Her years of training and experience come through in the ease with which she talks about serving others. Stay for the question at the end.2022-11-1130 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersTEACCH Me With Kathy Hearsey - Part 1Have a listen to Susan's and Cissy's conversation with Kathy Hearsey. Kathy is the Director of Training at UNC's TEACCH and one of the author's of the Task Galore book series. Teachers all over the world have benefited from her training and most probably have each of the books. She has many years of experience working in the field of autism and her love for people comes through. We hope you enjoy listening to one of the experts in the field. We have a question for you at the end.2022-11-0428 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersLife Is A Winding RoadCissy talks with Susan about how she and her husband were semi-lost on a trail in Ohio. They managed to find their way back to their car and laughed along the way. Have a listen about how behavioral principles come into play even when we are having fun on vacation. Stay for the question.2022-10-2818 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersThe Road To Success Is Always Under Construction - Part 2Here is the rest of this most recent conversation with Chris and Lucinda. It is wonderful to hear how they have learned from and helped one another. We should all see that our path to success is ever changing and always under construction. Susan and Cissy hope you enjoy these two as much as they did. There is a question at the end as usual.2022-10-2125 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersThe Road To Success Is Always Under Construction - Part 1Susan and Cissy have another conversation with Lucinda and Chris Thelan and this is the first half of that conversation. Chris talks about a recent keynote speech he gave. He does a beautiful job talking about how success can look different for each person. You will be convinced that he is certainly successful. You can find Chris's keynote speech at https://cdd.tamu.edu/service-outreach/bcs-success-conference/. He also talks about ways he found to get himself more active. Cissy and Susan hope you enjoy this conversation as much as they did. There will be a question at the end.2022-10-1431 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersI Don't Want To Ride The Second Bus - Part 2Teresa Peterson continues her conversation with Susan and Cissy. She tells us about her son's self-advocacy and her own learning of how to help him communicate to get to what he wanted. All their work made big differences in his life - from being a part of the high school football team to finding work that he enjoys. Whether the children you love have learning differences or not, you can learn good strategies from Teresa. Stay for the question. As always, thank you for listening.2022-09-3027 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersI Don't Want To Ride The Second Bus - Part 1Susan and Cissy have a great conversation with Teresa Peterson about the impact her son had on her life as she worked to make things happen for him. Originally, the diagnosis was a bit scary, but she started gathering information and advocating for him. This led to overcoming some of her own learning challenges. Her story of overcoming those challenges is amazing. As she worked to find ways to help her son, she found a very rewarding career in helping people with post traumatic stress disorder. Have a listen to the first part of that conversation and stay for the q...2022-09-2327 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersABA: Harmful or Helpful?Susan and Cissy have read articles and heard talk that some people think ABA is harmful and should be eliminated. They discuss their thoughts and potential reasons people may have a negative opinion. Of course, they see the field as trying to make a positive impact in the kindest way. Have a listen and let the podcast know your thoughts. Stay for the question at the end. 2022-09-1628 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersWhat A Comeback! Part 2Dr. Angie Mullennix gives us some of the background of her early studies and career that shows her determination started at a young age. She shares with us her plans for getting back to triathlons. She also used her recovery time to help others in their efforts to run and swim. Have a listen to this amazing lady. Stay for the question that Susan and I really had to talk through.2022-09-0930 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersGreat Teacher, Great Data, Fun Students Part 1Susan and Cissy talk with Cheri Ibarra who is a great teacher working with students with less academic needs and more needs in the social skills area. In this first part, she talks about fun students and using QR codes to help collect data to guide the interventions to be used. You will hear that she has high expectations for her students and they rise to meet those expectations. Thanks for listening and stay for the question.2022-06-2428 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersYou Should Have A YouTube ChannelIn this episode, Susan and Cissy talk about how behavior change can be seen in all parts of our lives. Susan talks about a great pilates instructor and a change in her behavior. They also talk about how even their own dogs have shaped their behavior. Behavior change is everywhere. Understanding how our choices influence others and how other's behaviors influences us can be powerful. Stay for the question. Thank you for listening.2022-06-1718 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersSuper Mom Part 2Join the second half of the conversation Susan and Cissy have with Loz Scott Young. Loz was diagnosed as autistic as an adult. She has navigated the way for herself and her two children who also have autism. She shares great information about sensory issues as well as preparing for social and communicative interactions. She talks about some of the educational challenges her child had and trying to advocate for supports. We hope you enjoy and stay for the question.2022-06-1025 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersSuper Mom Part 1Have a listen to the conversation Susan and Cissy had with Lorraine "Loz" Scott Young. Loz was diagnosed with autism as an adult and has two children who are on the spectrum. In a search to help her own child, she found herself going to work with Chewy Gem. Chewy Gem makes chewable jewelry and fidgets to help those who need that type of extra sensory input. One of her children has used his interest in video games to become a professional gamer. Loz's perspective is very informative and will make you think. The hosts hope you take away as muc...2022-06-0321 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersGracefully Fierce Part 1Jackie Marushka is the founder of Marushka Media, a boutique PR and Branding agency, who speaks so kindly that you can't help but want to spend more time with her. It doesn't take long to realize she is a woman on a mission to make things happen and help others. She is a trail blazer in her field, but also knows a lot about behavior change. Cissy and Susan hope you enjoy this conversation as much as they did. Stay for the question at the end of the podcast and come back next week to hear the rest of the...2022-05-2027 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersSunny Days With Kelsey Part 2Join Susan and Cissy for the second part of their conversation with Sunny Braun. Sunny explains Rett Syndrome so clearly and with great passion. The hosts learned new things and we hope you do too. Visit www.reverserett.org to learn more and to see the work that Rett Syndrome Research Trust is doing to find a cure. As usual, there will be a question at the end of this podcast. Thank you for listening.2022-04-2222 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersSunny Days With Kelsey Part 1Sunny Braun talks with Susan and Cissy about Rett Syndrome. Sunny is a wealth of knowledge on the topic. Her daughter, Kelsey, has Rett Syndrome and is the catalyst for her knowledge. You will learn amazing things about this disorder and be inspired to always investigate solutions. At this time there is no cure, but scientists are working. You can find ways to help at www.reversrett.org. Have a go at the question at the end of the podcast before you check out the website for Rett Syndrome Research Trust.2022-04-1530 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersEveryone Rowing In The Same DirectionSusan and Cissy talk about a student with whom they have both worked. The student had a significant change in behavior so the school was looking for a way to move things in a positive direction. Cissy worked with the classroom and Susan worked with the family to come up with plans to help this student get back on track. The classroom staff were very supportive and made changes to assist him. His family was very receptive to things that could happen at home to make a change. Have a listen and please stay for the question at the end.2022-04-0817 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersComing Together To Make A Difference Part 2Join Susan and Cissy for the rest of the conversation with Jon Lu, Ellie Castillo, and Kelly Pillow. These three work together to support staff and students daily. They share inspiring information. Stay for the question.2022-04-0122 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersComing Together To Make A Difference Part 1Susan and Cissy have a great conversation with Jon Lu, Ellie Castillo, and Kelly Pillow about how they work together to make a difference for the students and teachers they serve. They are each inspiring on their own merits, but together they make magic. Have a listen and be inspired. Stay for the question.2022-03-2526 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersAdvocacy Thy Name is Mom (and Dad and Self)Have a listen to Susan and Cissy have a talk with a man Susan worked with years ago. Brian and his parents give great insight into navigating school and life after that. They are sure to make you smile and think. Stay for the question.2022-03-1133 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersWorking on a Trigger Word With WendySusan talks about a student who had a big reaction to the word "girl". Everyone working with her recognized the importance of helping her be able to tolerate the word as they could not control the vocabulary of everyone with whom she came in contact. The team worked together on the word and helped Wendy make great progress. We hope you stay for the question at the end.2022-03-0419 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersMore Than a Mentor Part 2Here is the second half of our conversation with Dr. Mary Lasater about Dr. Mike Brady. She and Susan share about his wonderful influence on their lives and careers. We hope you enjoy the stories and see the behavior matters. Stay for the question at the end2022-02-2523 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersMore Than A Mentor Part 1Dr. Mary Lasater returns to reminisce with Susan about Dr. Mike Brady. Susan and Mary were in graduate school at the same time and were lucky enough to have Dr. Brady guide them through their Doctorates and several other aspects of their lives. Dr. Brady died in December leaving many people to grieve, but also many, many wonderful memories. Their stories emphasize the importance of coming alongside others as they learn, having high expectations, and a good sense of humor.2022-02-1822 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersFor Pete's Sake!Cissy and Susan talk about the challenges of working with individuals who have multiple maladaptive behaviors that are serving multiple functions. Helping these individuals get their needs met in a more functional way can be very rewarding. Sometimes it can be hard to decide where to begin. Have a listen and decide where you would start. 2022-02-1127 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersMeeting Timothy's Needs: The Importance of PairingSusan talks about a student who had many behaviors of concern. She gives a great illustration of turning a situation around with a student by pairing yourself and important activities with something they are known to enjoy. If a student sees you as fun, they are much more likely to work for you. Have a listen and check out the question at the end.2022-01-2115 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersTeamwork Makes the Dream WorkSusan and Cissy have a conversation with Sharon Carter and Jennifer Walker who are finishing up their last class for their behavior analyst certification. Although they have worked with different populations, they have worked together through the coursework and learned to apply the concepts in different ways as a result. They have great stories and insight. Have a listen and see if Cissy is able to answer the question they brought for the end of the episode.2022-01-1435 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersNew Year's ResolutionsToday's episode is a short conversation about making New Year's Resolutions and some of the behavioral principles around them. Susan and Cissy offer some ideas about making a resolution that can be kept. Have a listen. Also, have a Happy New Year! Welcome 2022!2021-12-3112 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersKnow Your "Why"Susan and Cissy have a talk with Blair Overman. Blair recently passed the exam to become a BCBA. Have a listen to her discussion about the obstacles that may have had others give up. She also shares about a student who cemented her "why" for working with students with autism and other special needs. We hope you are having a wonderful holiday and find a reminder about your own "why". Blair does a great job with the question at the end (of course).2021-12-2423 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersLove What You Do! Part 2Susan and Cissy continue a great conversation with Cheryl and Lindsey. These two ladies share great stories that teach important things about behavior. There is, of course, and question at the end. Thanks for listening.2021-12-1730 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersLove What You Do! Part OneSusan and Cissy have a great conversation with Cheryl Little and Lindsey Koon who both have worked with students with autism and other disabilities for many years. These two ladies have made big differences in lots of students' lives and have great stories to share. Have a listen to this first part and be inspired by their passion. Be sure to stay for the question!2021-12-1028 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersBehavior Supports for All Children - Part 1Have a listen to the first part of a great conversation Susan and Cissy have with principal Stephanie Cox. She and the staff at her school have created a system to support the behavior of all of their students. They support and teach all children's behavior and help them learn the skills they need where they need them. As always, a question about an ABA topic will finish the episode.2021-11-1923 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersKnow Your TriggersIt is important to know the things that trigger the individuals with whom you work or those of your own children. This week, Susan talks about the importance of knowing YOUR triggers. When you are helping someone whose behavior needs support, it is crucial to keep your triggers in check. We hope you enjoy this quick episode. How did you do on the question at the end?2021-11-1216 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersI Don't Think That Is What She MeansIn part one of a conversation Cissy and Susan have with Bridgette and Chandeep, they talk about the importance of understanding the meaning behind words and actions. They discuss a student who is doing and saying things that can be upsetting and do not match the situation. It is a reminder to teach replacement behaviors and HOW you want the student to ask for what they need. Have a listen and stay for the question. Come back for Part 2 next week.2021-10-2927 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersSpitting and Pinching and Biting, Oh my!Susan talks about a student who had significant behavior challenges that were not addressed appropriately by a teacher. Susan became more involved as a different teacher was assigned to work with him. Several important issues are discussed, such as consistency of implementation across people, what can be ignored, ruling out medical conditions, etc. Have a listen and give the question a shot too. 2021-10-1514 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersHe Sure Has Pivotal SkillsNicholas Guillerman returns for another conversation with Susan and Cissy. It is easy to see that Nicholas has the pivotal skills that researchers talk about. Have a listen and get some ideas from his organization and planning. We hope you also enjoy the question about ABA at the end.2021-10-0836 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersPunishment Can Be PrecariousSusan talks about how a teacher's punishment procedures lead to her performing a Functional Behavior Assessment that taught another teacher about data collection as well as a solution for the student's behavior that needed a change. The ladies talk about other examples of punishment and reinforcement in a way that they hope makes behavior change easier to understand. Stay for the question.2021-09-1022 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersLet's Bee Social Part 2Cissy and Susan have a great conversation with Tisha Gonzalez about helping individuals with autism develop social skills. Tisha and Sandra run Bee Social in San Antonio and are doing great things for their clients. We hope you enjoy part 2 of this interview.2021-09-0326 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersLet's Bee Social Part 1Susan and Cissy have a great conversation with Tisha Gonzalez about helping individuals with autism develop social skills. Tisha shares great information about a resource for families of students who take the STAAR Alt-2 test (one of the versions of the state test for school age students in Texas). Tisha and Sandra Jacobs have Bee Social which runs social skills training for individuals with autism and related disabilities. Stay for the question at the end of part one. Come back next week for the second half of the conversation.2021-08-2724 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersHe Did What?Susan and Cissy discuss the skill of executive functioning, which is important to all of us. Some people with autism can have challenges in this area and find themselves in some tricky situations. Of course, a question ends the episode.2021-08-2215 min
Function Junction:Behavior MattersMake It Fun Part 1Susan and Cissy interview an amazing school district-wide paraprofessional who has so much insight into forming relationships with students, other paraprofessionals, and teachers. Have a listen to the wonderful Jon Lu and hang around for a question about ABA concepts. Special thanks to John Kenna who edited this episode!2021-08-0743 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersCall Him By His NameSusan shares an important story about a student and his formal name versus the name his was accustomed to being called. The story goes on to talk about other issues of respect and care. The episode ends with an ABA question to keep listeners thinking.2021-07-0916 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersThe Power of One - Part 1Susan and Cissy have a great conversation with Lucinda and Chris. Chris is an adult with autism. Lucinda is his dedicated mom. They have faced difficulties and victories and share the difference one person can make. The episode ends with a question about ABA concepts.2021-06-2535 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersJust Like Everyone - Part 1 With Dr. James WilliamsSusan and Cissy share the first half of a conversation with Dr. James Williams of Bloom Consulting, LLC. James is passionate about helping people with disabilities find work. After listening to him, you just might be too. He makes a strong point that everyone wants to work and make a contribution. It is easy to get inspired by his enthusiasm. Have a listen and stay for the ABA question.2021-06-0435 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersHarvey Brought What To School?Susan tells us about helping a student who had a very unexpected reaction to being frustrated with a friend. We talk about the difference between the disciplinary response of a school administrator and the response of a teacher or behavior analyst. The episode wraps up with a question to practice terminology related to applied behavior analysis.2021-05-2814 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersCowboy's Mom Part 2Have a listen as Susan and Cissy finish a great conversation with Kim. Kim is the mother of a young man with autism. She is sure to make you smile and give your brain some things to ponder. Kim is a writer who makes regular posts to the journal tab of her website - www.kimlindquistauthor.com. She wants to support and inspire people, especially those impacted by autism. She sure inspires us. Don't forget to try the question at the end of the podcast.2021-05-1429 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersMore Fun Than Double JeopardyCissy and Susan share some fun stories and discuss a couple of errors that they have seen (or made) when working to change behavior. As always, a question to practice ABA concepts is included.2021-04-3022 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersThrow The Tray AwayIn this Episode, Cissy and Susan talk about how sometimes individuals with autism and related disabilities may have trouble attending to the important parts of learning about a concept. They may "learn" the wrong information. They share interesting stories about some of the fantastic people with whom they have worked. As always, there will be a question at the end to practice ABA concepts. Hope you attend to the right information.2021-04-2322 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersUsing Your Strengths and Practicing Your WeaknessesThis week Cissy and Susan talk with Nicholas Guillerman, an adult on the spectrum. Nicholas shares about his life and how he used his strengths to make connections with both people and learning. He also talks about the people in his life who pushed him in the best ways. 2021-04-1650 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersThe Teacher Is CrazySusan talks about a fun student who thought she was a little "loco" for an intervention that she used. The ladies share interesting information about overcorrection procedures and end with a question for you.2021-04-0921 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersJerry Is Running From The PlaygroundCissy talks about solving the problem of a student running from the playground. Susan adds about how to help a student who has difficulty letting go of reward time. Which dimension of ABA will answer the question at the end of the episode?2021-04-0224 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersStickers Don't Work For EveryoneDr. Catlett gives great insight into reinforcers. The ladies talk about some unusual reinforcers that they have encountered over the years. As usual, the episode ends with a practice question.2021-03-2629 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersPlay Is WorkCissy and Susan talk about social and play skills. These can be difficult skills for some people with autism. For some - work is play and play is work. 2021-03-1923 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersBeaux Has GoalsSusan covers components of good goals. The episode also talks about verbal behavior and where Susan started with a young guy. A question to practice ABA concepts finishes up for today.2021-03-1234 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersThat Escalated QuicklyDr. Catlett talks about a student who used several behaviors to refuse work. She shares about the great teacher who helped with solutions for him. A sample question about ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) concepts is included.2021-02-2619 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersIt Is Not BriberyHave a listen as Cissy and Susan discuss reinforcement and strategies used to change the challenging behaviors of aggression and running away. There will be a quiz. 2021-02-2019 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersIntroducing Function Junction: Behavior MattersSusan and Cissy talk about their podcast and why you should listen.2021-02-1202 minFunction Junction:Behavior MattersTake the Data CatlettDr. Catlett talks about a time when she was a grad student and she was working with a student who was spitting. Her professor helped her see the importance of the data. 2021-02-1216 min