Shows
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthDr. Scott O’Donnell, PhD: Breaking Misconceptions in Applied Behavior AnalysisApplied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is more than just a therapy for autism—it’s a science that can transform lives across all populations. In this episode, Dr. Scott O’Donnell, PhD, joins Tim Zercher to share his journey into ABA, tackle common misconceptions about the field, and offer insights on preventing burnout for ABA staff. Plus, he dives into how behavioral science can inform marketing strategies and client growth.If you’re in behavioral health, leadership, or marketing for ABA, this episode is packed with practical takeaways and a fresh perspective on the power of ABA.
2025-11-1909 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthMelanie Dallas: Leadership, Marketing & Expanding Access in Behavioral HealthJoin Timothy A. Zercher as he sits down with Melanie Dallas, a seasoned behavioral health leader with nearly 40 years of experience, to explore the challenges and innovations in mental health care. From creating easier access for complex populations to developing community-focused programs for veterans and recovery-friendly workplaces, Melanie shares actionable insights for leaders, marketers, and anyone invested in behavioral health.
2025-11-1816 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthTim Talks: James Douglas - Coaching ADHD Across Youth and Executive PopulationsIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, Timothy A. Zercher sits down with James Douglas, a behavioral health coach specializing in ADHD for both youth and executives. James shares his journey into behavioral health, how he tailors his approach for very different audiences, and his insights on how the conversation around ADHD and mental health is evolving. He also provides a look at what’s working in client acquisition and how personal connections play a key role in growth.Whether you’re a parent, educator, executive, or behavioral health professional, this episode provides practical strategies and thou...
2025-11-1104 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthEthan Protzel - Founder & CEO, Behavior Group: Expanding Access to Care with AI-Powered ABAArtificial intelligence is transforming the future of behavioral healthcare — but not by replacing clinicians. Instead, AI is unlocking more time, more accuracy, and more access to care.In this episode, Tim sits down with Ethan Protzel, Founder & CEO of Behavior Group, to discuss:Why recruiting and retaining great clinicians is harder than everHow AI can eliminate administrative burden and accelerate outcomesThe future of passive data collection in ABAThe most effective recruitment marketing strategy he’s using todayWhether you’re running a growing ABA practice or exploring innovation in clinical operations, this conversation brings...
2025-11-0607 min
In the Field: The ABA PodcastCreating a Strong ABA Business: Marketing, Mindset, and Mission with Tim ZercherPodcast Episode: Creating a Strong ABA Business: Marketing, Mindset, and Mission with Tim ZercherIn this episode of In the Field: The ABA Podcast, I sit down with Timothy Zercher, entrepreneur and CEO of A-Train Marketing, to talk about how ABA businesses can strengthen their marketing, clarify their message, and build in ways that align with their mission. Tim shares how his journey as a three-time founder and his personal ties to behavioral health led him to focus on the ABA space, and what he has learned working with organizations across the country.
2025-11-0447 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthBrianne Wolfgramm-Hardy - Building Trust and Community in Behavioral HealthIn this episode of Tim Talks, Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Brianne Wolfgramm-Hardy, an expert in behavioral health community development and business strategy. Brianne shares her journey from working direct care in adolescent residential treatment to leading business development at Aspen Grove Behavioral Hospital.They dive deep into the challenges and opportunities of building lasting partnerships in behavioral health, prioritizing people over profit, and creating sustainable systems that improve access to care. Brianne also discusses the ethical responsibility of connecting the right clients with the right services, the importance of trust in provider relationships, and how...
2025-11-0408 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthJen Farris - Building Sprout MBC to Serve Underserved CommunitiesIn this episode, Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Jen Farris, founder of Sprout MBC, to explore her journey from a college student unsure of her path to a passionate leader in behavioral health. Jen shares the story of how she got into applied behavior analysis, the challenges of building and growing a behavioral health organization in rural communities, and her vision for improving access to services for underserved populations.They discuss:The hardest parts of growing a behavioral health organizationGaps in training for BCBAs and how Sprout MBC addresses themHow to market ABA...
2025-10-3013 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthDr. Sherilyn Duckworth: Turning Personal Struggle into Behavioral Health AdvocacyIn this powerful episode of Tim Talks, Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Dr. Duckworth, a public health practitioner and founder of Empowered Solutions, to explore how personal experiences shape professional purpose. From surviving a teenage suicide attempt to building community-focused mental health programs, Dr. Duckworth shares insights on reducing stigma, leveraging community partnerships, and making mental health care accessible to underserved populations.Listeners will learn:How personal challenges can fuel professional advocacyEffective strategies for community engagement in behavioral healthWays to normalize conversations about mental health in families and communitiesThis episode is both heartfelt...
2025-10-2712 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthFrankie Wilson – Behavior, Branding, and Client GrowthIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Frankie Wilson, a behavioral strategist with a diverse career spanning entertainment, ministry, radio, and behavioral health. Frankie shares how behavior shapes brand, insights from psychology every founder should know, and strategies for growing clients effectively while maintaining high-quality service.We dive into the power of word-of-mouth marketing, the integration of AI in client engagement, and how understanding human behavior can transform leadership and decision-making. Whether you’re a founder, clinician, or marketing professional in behavioral health, Frankie’s insights are practical, actionable, and eye...
2025-10-2310 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthJim Szyperski, CEO of Acuity Behavioral: How AI is Reshaping Psychiatric CareIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Jim Szyperski, CEO of Acuity Behavioral, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming psychiatric care.Jim shares how his personal connection to mental health led him to build technology-driven solutions for behavioral healthcare. From developing “Nora,” an AI-powered nurse operations assistant, to tackling the inefficiencies in clinical workflows, Jim discusses what it really takes to innovate in an industry that’s decades behind the rest of healthcare.They dive into:The personal story that l...
2025-10-2114 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthTom Telford, CEO of LÉVO - Bringing the “Bio” to the Biopsychosocial ModelEntrepreneur-turned–mental health leader Tom Telford (CEO, LÉVO) joins Tim to unpack how his wife’s journey to becoming an LMFT led them to build LÉVO -primary mental healthcare focused on the “bio” in the biopsychosocial model.We cover:Tom’s pivot from institutional finance to mental health careThe 3 C’s of team-building: Connect, Communicate, Culture (plus alignment)Why care navigation is so confusing for the public—and how to fix itLeadership during community crisesWhat’s working in growth: referral networks, thought leadership, and (surprisingly) radioIf you or someone you...
2025-10-1625 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthAmber Nelms, M.A., BCBA - Leading Triangle ABA with Empathy, Integrity, and NeuroscienceIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Amber Nelms, Founder & CEO of Triangle ABA, to explore what happens when leadership meets lived experience.Amber shares how her journey as both a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a parent of an autistic child shaped the compassionate, clinician-led model behind Triangle ABA. She opens up about scaling a people-backed (not private equity-backed) organization, developing leaders who embody values - not titles - and how neuroscience can deepen ABA’s impact in the ne...
2025-10-1411 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthMakenzie Sandler: Navigating the Future of ABA TherapyIn this episode of Tim Talks, Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Makenzie Sandler, Chief Strategy Officer at Bright Achievements, to explore the evolving landscape of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. With over 10 years of experience in the field, Makenzie shares her insights on how ABA therapy is adapting to meet the needs of families, the challenges of scaling while maintaining clinical quality, and the role of technology in enhancing care. Tune in to hear Makenzie's personal journey into ABA and her vision for its future.
2025-10-0911 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthShannon Carr: Leading with Heart in ABA ServicesIn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Shannon Carr, the Owner & Managing Director of Living Soul of New York Applied Behavior Analysis, to discuss her journey in the field of ABA. Shannon shares her transition from school psychology to behavior analysis, her strategies for maintaining quality care across different environments, and how she’s tackling the challenges of recruiting and retaining top talent. Tune in for insights on building strong teams, collaborating with pediatricians, and overcoming recruitment hurdles in the ABA field.
2025-10-0711 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthDr. Danielle Taylor: Trauma-Informed Leadership, Innovation, and Growth at Spectrum360How do you scale human-centered care without losing your soul? In this candid conversation, Dr. Danielle M. Taylor - Chief Operating Officer at Spectrum360 and Licensed Psychologist—shares how personal experience shaped her leadership, why feedback loops are a non-negotiable, and the practical ways her team uses trauma-informed practices, staff wellness, and data to drive outcomes.You’ll hear about:Balancing growth with mission and lived experienceFunding realities for nonprofits—and transparent decision-makingBringing somatics, mind–body work, and trauma-informed care into schools & adult programsSmart recruitment: total-compensation clarity, culture, and early fit checksWhere tech & A...
2025-10-0219 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthAmanda Timonere - Championing Inclusive Leadership in Behavioral HealthIn this episode of Tim Talks, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Amanda Timonere, clinical executive, entrepreneur, and founder of Zenful Collective™. Amanda shares her journey into behavioral health, how she balances executive leadership with client connection, and the role of cultural responsiveness in transforming outcomes.From preventing burnout to marketing with authenticity, Amanda offers practical insights for leaders and organizations navigating the complexities of behavioral health. If you’re curious about values-driven leadership, sustainable growth, and building cultures of inclusion—this conversation is for you.
2025-09-3006 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthDr. Christine J. Markow - Integrating Psychology, Pain, and HealingIn this episode of Tim Talks, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Dr. Christine J. Markow, CEO of the Center for Integrative Behavioral Medicine. With decades of experience in clinical health psychology, Dr. Markow shares her journey from a life-changing spinal cord injury to becoming a national leader in integrative behavioral medicine.They discuss the connection between chronic pain and mental health, how families can break cycles of narcissistic abuse, and what the mental health system must do to better support teens. Dr. Markow also provides insights into presurgical evaluations, recovery predictors, and the challenges clinicians face...
2025-09-2609 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthQuatiba Davis, M.Ed., BCBA, LABA, LBA, IBA - Leading with Excellence in ABAIn this episode of Tim Talks, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Quatiba Davis, Chief Clinical Officer at ABA Centers and one of the most experienced leaders in applied behavior analysis (ABA). Quatiba shares her journey of building clinical excellence across multiple regions, cultivating strong leaders, balancing data with empathy, and preparing the next generation of BCBAs for executive leadership.From integrating AI and technology into ABA practices, to shaping the field with cultural responsiveness, to scaling with both heart and operational rigor - this conversation is packed with insights for clinicians, leaders, and...
2025-09-2412 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthMikki Schoone, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA, IBA - Bringing a Behavior Analyst’s Lens to Domestic Violence & Coercive ControlIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Mikki Schoone, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over 30 years in human services. Mikki shares her journey from developmental disabilities and child welfare to creating a Domestic Violence Functional Assessment that shines light on coercive control beyond physical harm.We discuss:How lived and professional experience shaped her passion for advocacyThe challenges survivors face in finding their voiceWhy coercion and control must be recognized as more than “invisible” abuseBalancing clinical work, teaching, and building a new ventureThis...
2025-09-1809 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthChelsea Freeman-Yates, LISW - Leading with Trauma-Informed Care and Community CollaborationIn this episode of Tim Talks, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Chelsea Freeman-Yates, LISW, Executive Director of the Lorain County Children and Families First Council. Chelsea shares her journey from school social work to countywide leadership, her philosophy on building trust across organizations, and how she balances direct clinical work with executive responsibilities.Topics include:Why leadership often chooses youBuilding effective collaborations and giving underrepresented voices a seat at the tableTrends shaping the future of social work, including trauma-informed care and technologyBalancing clinical practice with executive leadershipThe countywide Kids Summit initiativeLeading with...
2025-09-1610 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthBehavior Is the Brand - with Frankie C. Wilson Jr., Behavioral Strategist“Behavior is the brand.” In this quick-hit conversation, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Frankie C. Wilson Jr. to explore how everyday actions shape trust, reputation, and growth. Frankie breaks down why reclaiming your narrative matters (hello, Taylor Swift), how to use the PREVAC principle to replace habits with higher-value behaviors, and why community-driven storytelling is the marketing trend to watch.You’ll learn:Why repeated behavior - not logos - builds brand trustA practical way to replace unhelpful habits with better onesHow to position your company inside a commun...
2025-09-1112 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthRodrigo Nardi: The Movement in Mental Health - Challenging Traditional Psychiatry with True Psychiatry NetworkIn this thought-provoking episode of Tim Talks Podcast, host Timothy A. Zercher is joined by Rodrigo Nardi, Founder of True Psychiatry Network, to discuss the revolutionary approach to psychiatry and mental health. Rodrigo shares his unique philosophy that emotions are signals, not symptoms, and how this perspective has shaped his approach to mental health care. They dive deep into the challenges of going against traditional psychiatry, the impact of psychiatric medications, and the role of movement in mental health transformation. If you’re interested in an alternative approach to mental health and psychiatry, this episode is for you.
2025-09-0915 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthScaling ABA with Compassion: Chelsea McAdams, COO of Connections Behavior Planning & InterventionIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy Zercher is joined by Chelsea McAdams, BCBA and Chief Operations Officer at Connections Behavior Planning & Intervention. Chelsea shares how her team has scaled school-based ABA services with a focus on capacity building, collaboration, and compassion.From balancing quality care with organizational growth, to building partnerships across agencies, to tackling the toughest challenge of all - recruitment and retention—Chelsea offers a candid look at what it takes to run and grow an ABA organization today.She also dives into her personal journey into the field, wh...
2025-09-0420 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthLeading with Listening: Cassandra Bailey, BCBA & Founder of Grace ABAIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Cassandra Bailey, BCBA and Founder of Grace ABA. With more than 15 years of experience leading clinical teams of over 100 providers, Cassandra shares the leadership principle that has transformed the way she supports her teams - active listening.Cassandra also opens up about her personal journey into ABA, how her niece’s diagnosis inspired the creation of Grace ABA, and why transparency is critical for both staffing and client relationships. From navigating staffing shortages to building trust with families often turned away by larger ag...
2025-09-0212 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthCortney Harden, LCSW, CMNCS | Integrative Therapy, Nutrition, and Whole-Person HealingIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Cortney Harden, LCSW, CMNCS, founder of Live Aligned Integrative Therapy.Cortney blends psychotherapy, clinical nutrition, and lifestyle medicine into her practice, bringing over 15 years of experience in behavioral health strategy and direct client care. She shares insights from her personal healing journey, the surprising gaps between research and practice, and why partnerships and collaboration - not competition - are the real drivers of transformation in mental health.Listeners will hear how Cortney navigates client relationships, builds a truly...
2025-08-2910 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthTrevor Colhoun, CEO of Trusted Provider Network | Building the Future of Digital Behavioral HealthIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Trevor Colhoun, CEO and co-founder of Trusted Provider Network (TPN.health), one of the nation’s fastest-growing digital behavioral health networks.Trevor shares the personal story that inspired him to launch TPN, how his background in finance and technology shaped his mission-driven leadership style, and why he believes behavioral health is overdue for digital transformation.From tackling ghost networks to building connectivity that actually improves access and outcomes, Trevor unpacks the evolution of provider networks - and what it takes to...
2025-08-2717 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthScaling with Stability: Building Thriving Clinical Teams with Dr. Jeannie Aguilar, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBAIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Dr. Jeannie Aguilar - an accomplished clinical and operational leader with over 20 years of experience in healthcare and applied behavior analysis.Dr. Aguilar shares powerful insights on how to scale clinical teams without losing stability, how behavioral science can shape organizational leadership, and why clinician development is the key to lasting impact. From Medicaid expansion to ripple effects of mentorship, Jeannie’s story offers both practical strategies and a deeply personal look at why this work matters.If you’re lead...
2025-08-2508 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthVictoria Browne - Recruiting Top Talent in Behavioral Health: Leadership, Culture, and Creative SourcingIn this episode of Tim Talks, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Victoria Browne, Senior Sourcer and Behavioral Health Physician Recruiter at Family Care Center, to dive into the realities of recruiting in one of the most competitive sectors today.Victoria shares how her team fills clinics across multiple states, the hardest parts of attracting staff who truly fit the culture, and why leadership is the #1 thing top talent looks for—regardless of industry. She also opens up about how her creative side shapes her recruiting approach, the unconventional sourcing strategies that work, and the leadership le...
2025-08-2112 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthBuilding Communities That Matter with Kelly Baird, COO of the Behavior Technician AssociationWhat if success in ABA wasn't about competition—but about collaboration?In this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Kelly Baird - COO of the Behavior Technician Association, Co-Founder of The ABA Collab, and Founder of BWIBAAD - to talk about how she’s building some of the most mission-driven, community-focused spaces in the ABA field.From launching ABA holidays to creating platforms that spotlight underrepresented voices, Kelly unpacks how structure, celebration, and intentionality fuel sustainable growth.We also dive into:The challenge of driving innovation in a...
2025-08-1411 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthAmber Vaughan - Why Competition is a Fallacy in Behavioral HealthIs competition in behavioral health real - or just a myth that’s hurting more than helping?In this powerful episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Amber Vaughan, CMO at Cornerstone Healing Center and a fierce advocate for ethical marketing, radical leadership, and meaningful disruption. Amber breaks down why traditional sales mindsets don’t work in treatment, how to truly connect clients to care, and why putting the product first will always win.Short, honest, and packed with truth. You don’t want to miss this.
2025-08-1211 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthJosh Nelson - From Burnout to Business: Growing Ethical ABA Practices with Clarity and ComplianceIn this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Josh Nelson, CXO and co-founder of ABA Impact, to talk about building ABA businesses that are ethical, compliant, and scalable - without sacrificing clinical values.Josh unpacks what he's learned from tens of thousands of conversations with clinician-entrepreneurs: the common mistakes, the real compliance traps, and why success in ABA business has more to do with mindset than margins.Whether you're thinking about launching a new ABA agency or refining one you've already built...
2025-08-0510 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthFrom Compliance to Competence: Allyson Wharam on Elevating ABA Training and SupervisionWhat if your ABA training systems didn’t just check boxes - but actually built confident, competent clinicians?In this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Allyson Wharam, M.Ed., BCBA, the founder of Sidekick Learning, to explore how behavioral health organizations can rethink training, supervision, and clinical decision-making. From the gaps in traditional fieldwork to balancing compliance with creativity, Allyson brings a refreshing and practical perspective on empowering the next generation of BCBAs and RBTs.This conversation is a must-listen for clinical directors, training le...
2025-08-0110 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthChristina Gravina | Building Autonomy and Respect in ABA for Teens and AdultsWhat does it look like when adults with disabilities are given real choice and dignity in their services?In this episode of Tim Talks: Behavioral Health, we sit down with Christina Gravina, M.Ed, BCBA, LABA - founder and CEO of BILT, Inc. - to explore a powerful, people-first approach to ABA and IDD services.Christina shares:Why she started BILT to serve a forgotten populationHow her team rethinks day programs into real-world experiencesWhat the “Real Lives Law” means for future service flexibilityHow her team respectfully teaches sexuality educationA story of one client’s transf...
2025-07-3008 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthJeron Trotman | Building Community, Elevating BTs, and Redefining Leadership in ABAIn this candid and powerful episode of Tim Talks, host Tim Zercher sits down with Jeron Trotman - founder of Black Men in Behavior Analysis, ABAVerzus, the Behavior Technician Association, and co-founder of The ABA Collab.Jeron shares how he's reshaping the ABA landscape through authentic community-building, inclusive leadership, and systemic reform for behavior technicians. From addressing burnout to advancing BIPOC visibility in leadership, Jeron challenges traditional models and offers a new vision for the field - one that centers connection, culture, and co-elevation.Whether you're an RBT, BCBA, or ABA leader, this is a...
2025-07-2808 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthDr. Summer Gainey | Personalizing Outcomes in ABA & Preparing for What’s NextIn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Dr. Summer Gainey, BCBA-D, to explore what it really means to lead outcomes-driven care without losing sight of personalization. Summer shares how her team balances data with human connection, why meaningful goals don’t always fit neatly into a report, and how her policy work in Texas shapes her approach to clinical leadership. From growing in competitive markets to preparing for the future of AI regulation - this conversation is a must for any ABA leader thinking beyond the clinic walls.
2025-07-2410 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthHenry Xie | Elevating Human Work Through Automation in ABAIn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, Timothy Zercher sits down with Henry Xie, Founder and CEO of Simple Fractal, to explore how automation is transforming the ABA space. Henry shares how his team builds trust in a competitive market, why his hiring process prioritizes second-career coders, and what it really means to "elevate human work." From automating tedious tasks to freeing up clinicians to focus on what matters, Henry offers deep insights and real-world examples of AI and RPA in action. If you’re interested in the future of healthcare operations, this episode is...
2025-07-2208 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthJeff Thompson | From Franchise Mogul to Autism Advocate: Building Clinics That Actually WorkJeff Thompson went from selling 350+ franchises around the world to radically changing lives in the autism space. In this candid episode of Tim Talks, Jeff shares how his own mental health journey - and eventual autism diagnosis - reshaped everything he believed about success, leadership, and impact.Host Timothy Zercher dives into Jeff’s leadership philosophy, how he's disrupting the ABA industry with real business strategy, and why he believes some of the biggest challenges in autism care are also the greatest opportunities.Whether you're a clinic owner, leader, or just someone passionate about behavioral he...
2025-07-1822 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthCarly & Jon Weinberg - Building a Neurodiverse School That Actually WorksHow do you grow a school and therapy center without losing quality or culture? You hire intentionally. You build slowly. And you make collaboration non-negotiable.In this episode, Tim sits down with Carly and Jon Weinberg, the leaders behind Project Infinity School and Beyond ABA Therapy - two integrated programs creating a better path for neurodiverse students in Florida.They share how they’ve scaled with purpose, built trust in a skeptical market, and kept client care at the center of everything they do.It’s a masterclass in ethical growth, long...
2025-07-1411 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthThe Golden Question Every Educator and Parent Should Be Asking | Dr. David MeichenbaumIn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, I sit down with Dr. David Meichenbaum, a nationally recognized leader in autism intervention and behavioral consultation. We dive into what it really means to work collaboratively with families, educators, and schools to support learners with autism or behavioral challenges.Dr. Meichenbaum shares his "Golden Question" that reframes how we talk about behavior, why focusing on skill-building over punishment matters, and practical strategies for generalizing skills from therapy into classrooms and homes.If you're a parent, teacher, or ABA professional - this episode is packed with insights...
2025-07-1010 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthPatrick Faga | From Flashcards to FirstWork: Digitizing ABA for Independent LearningOn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, Timothy Zercher sits down with Patrick Faga, Founder of FirstWork, to explore how technology is reshaping ABA lesson delivery. Patrick shares how his background as a behavior technician sparked the idea to ditch laminated flashcards in favor of scalable, digital learning tools - and how that decision is creating more efficient, learner-driven experiences both in the clinic and at home.In this rapid-fire episode, they dive into: - How FirstWork is transforming lesson delivery for BCBAs and special educators - The surprising success of digital tools for le...
2025-07-0809 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthScaling ABA with Heart: Operational Lessons from Mordy Friedberg (Best Buds ABA)In this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Mordy Friedberg, Director of Operations at Best Buds ABA, to unpack the reality of building and scaling an ABA practice in today’s climate.Mordy shares how he transitioned from long-term care into ABA, why workforce shortages are slowing down care, and how to grow without losing the personal touch that teams - and clients - deserve. From staffing challenges to the systems you should implement before you need them, this conversation is packed with practical insight for ABA leaders.If yo...
2025-07-0311 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthBuilding for the 51%: Elevating BCBA Support, Mentorship & Clinical Quality with Dr. Kristen ByraIn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Dr. Kristen Byra, BCBA-D and founder of Upskill ABA, to dive into the evolving challenges - and opportunities - in ABA today.Kristen shares her mission behind "building for the 51%," a call to action for supporting the growing wave of newly certified BCBAs who often enter the field underprepared for its complexities. We discuss why mentorship matters more than ever, how to increase trial counts without overwhelming teams, and the biggest myth in ABA that needs to die: that all BCBAs are interchangeable.
2025-07-0109 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthTim Talks: Logan Pratt, CEO of Bloomwell Autism TherapyIn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Logan Pratt, CEO of Bloomwell Autism Therapy, to explore how Bloomwell is reshaping autism services in underserved communities. Logan shares his journey from public policy to ABA leadership, why Bloomwell focuses on areas like Minnesota and Nebraska, and how decentralizing management has fueled sustainable growth.They dive into the value of retaining quality staff, the hidden challenges of ABA regulations, and why leadership development is essential for new BCBAs. If you're passionate about ethical, scalable, and community-focused ABA care, this episode is packed...
2025-06-2608 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthJoseph O’Keefe | Scaling with Integrity in ABA: From Solo Practice to Compass ABAIn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Joseph O’Keefe, BCBA, founder and CEO of Compass ABA Therapy. Joe shares his journey from launching Compass during the COVID-19 pandemic to growing a high-demand ABA provider committed to doing things the right way - no shortcuts, no compromises.We explore the realities of scaling while maintaining clinical quality, what most providers get wrong with payers and authorizations, and why staffing remains the industry's toughest puzzle. If you’re a clinical leader or startup operator in ABA, this...
2025-06-0909 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthHolli Beth Clauser | Building Culture-Driven Systems in ABAIn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Holli Beth Clauser - founder of the ABA C.A.R.E.S. Summit and a leading voice in neurodiverse workplace innovation - to explore the human side of staffing in the ABA world. Holli shares how her neurodivergent perspective has influenced her approach to leadership, systems-building, and recruitment strategy.We dig into why burnout and turnover persist, what leaders are missing in their talent operations, and the exact systems Holli would build first if launching a new ABA group today. If...
2025-06-0909 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthEpisode Title Daniel Blank: Building the ABA Revolution with People-First PrinciplesIn this compelling episode of Tim Talks, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Daniel Blank, Founder and CEO of ABA Revolution. With decades of experience and a fresh new vision, Daniel shares how he's reimagining ABA therapy from the ground up. The conversation touches on the painful realities of high turnover, underpaid RBTs, and the dangers of prioritizing profit over people. Daniel discusses his people-first philosophy, bold tech integrations (including robots!), and why he believes ethical staffing is the future of autism care. If you're ready to rethink what quality really means in ABA, this episode is a must-listen.
2025-06-0913 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthAnna Bullard: Championing Access & Equity in Autism Caren this heartfelt and powerful episode of Tim Talks, host Timothy Zercher sits down with Anna Bullard, VP of Payor Operations at Holding Hands Pediatric Therapy & Adult Services and the driving force behind Georgia’s historic “Ava’s Law.” Anna shares the deeply personal story of her daughter’s autism diagnosis, the battle for insurance reform, and the grit it took to open a rural ABA clinic where services were lacking. From misconceptions held by payors to the harsh realities of provider reimbursement, Anna brings 15+ years of experience, advocacy, and passion to the mic.Whether you're a provider...
2025-06-0910 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthMatthew Harrington, BCBA | Ethical Marketing for ABA: Why Silence Can Be HarmfulIn this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, host Timothy A. Zercher sits down with Matthew Harrington, BCBA and founder of ABA Digital Marketing Agency, to challenge a controversial idea: Is it unethical NOT to market your ABA practice?Matthew brings a rare blend of clinical experience and marketing insight to the table, exploring:Why ethical marketing matters more than ever in ABAThe biggest myths about local outreach and referralsHow to scale without depending on paid adsWhy clinical outcomes should drive your messagingThe #1 shift he wishes all ABA businesses would make...
2025-06-0609 min
Tim Talks: Behavioral HealthSean Yocum, MA, BCBA, LBA | From Family Insight to Field Reform: Redefining ABA’s Gold StandardWhat happens when lived experience meets clinical expertise? In this episode of Tim Talks: ABA Therapy, host Tim Zercher sits down with Sean Yocum—ABA clinician, podcast host, baseball coach, and passionate advocate for family-centered care in behavior analysis.Sean shares how growing up with an autistic sibling shaped his drive to reform the field. From questioning outdated clinical standards to pushing for purpose-driven company culture, Sean doesn't hold back.You’ll hear:Why generalization and caregiver training must become the new gold standardHow shaping applies far beyond therapy sessions—even on the baseball fieldW...
2025-06-0615 min