Podcasts for BCBAs and Therapists to Learn More About Applied Behavior Analysis
How do you get through your morning commutes and workouts? For many of us at Hopebridge, the joy of pressing play on a great podcast before a long drive or walk around the block is about as good as it gets. Mixing education in with our entertainment is even better, so we checked in with our board certified behavior analysts (BCBA) to source the best applied behavior analysis-driven podcasts possible to stream.
This list covers all angles of ABA. There are options sure to please registered behavior technicians (RBT) and students working toward their behavior analyst certification, as well as experienced BCBAs searching for new techniques. Even doctors of behavior analysis (BCBA-D) can get something out of it, especially if they are looking for ways to earn continuing education credits (CEU) on the go. If you’re an autism parent, this list can still be for you! These podcasts are also beneficial to caregivers who want to learn more about the principles and their practical applications.
Best Podcasts About ABA
- The Behavioral Observations
Known by some as the “OG of BCBA podcasts,” the host, Matt Cicoria serves up some of the best behavior analytic content on this podcast, which should be at the top of every ABA student’s and professional’s list. The sessions feature conversations with renowned experts like Dr. Pat McGreevy and Dr. Hanley, with topics such as acceptance and commitment training and precision teaching. “This is where I first learned about Dr. Greg Hanley’s interventions, which I’ve been using with more than half of the kiddos I work with,” said Hopebridge BCBA Catherine Mouch. There are also opportunities for BACB Type 2 Continuing Education credits with select podcast episodes.
- ABA Inside Track
Led by two BCBA-Ds and a BCBA, this podcast offers discussions about applied behavior analysis and the research that fuels the field. This one may take a little more effort to listen to because it is centered around journal articles. Our BCBAs recommend reading the articles in advance for a more informed listen. Bonus: these episodes can also be used for continuing education credits, including options for free CEUs.
- #doBetter
The Do Better Collective appeals to those interested in developing humane, culturally informed and compassionate behavior analytic interventions, and the podcast is just a piece of it. The podcast covers topics that range from sleep and toilet training to current events and implementing Practical Functional Assessments.
- The Controversial Exchange
Dedicated to the tougher conversations about human behavior, the hosts of this ABA therapy-focused, op-ed-style podcast want to bring topics and perspectives that are typically kept within private conversations to the public for discussion and debate.
- ABA on Call
This podcast explores the ABA and healthcare technology industries through thought-provoking conversation from BCBA-Ds about ideas and trends in their fields. Our behavior analysts told us this podcast’s interviews opened them up to new topics and strategies they hadn’t previously thought to try.
- ACT in Context
The Acceptance and Commitment Therapy podcast covers all aspects of ACT from its history, to its clinical application, to the future of the work. It primarily focuses on ACT, but also touches on related issues, such as behavioral principles, the underlying theory of language and philosophy of science.
- Turn Around Autism
An autism podcast for professionals and parents, the weekly series focuses on helping those touched by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) reduce stress, live happier lives and help their children or clients reach their fullest potentials.
- Beautiful Humans: The Social ChangeCast
Started by two behavior analysts who are passionate about bridging behavioral science and social justice, the hosts lead weekly conversations around current events and other socially significant topics.
- The Sensory Project
Though it falls outside of the traditional ABA realm, this podcast earned a spot on our list because its topics fit within our interdisciplinary Hopebridge 360 Care model* and the need for personalized therapy. Hosted by certified occupational therapy assistants, “The Sensory Project” aims to be a safe place for parents, therapists and educators to learn the truth behind occupational therapy, sensory integration and the key components to finding health and wellness for the entire family.
- Behave Yourself Podcast
Fairly new to the podcast scene, these episodes put behavior analysis into the context of real life. BCBAs enjoy listening to it for application of ABA in aspects of everyday life, such as health and fitness.
This list is just a sample of the many podcasts and resources available to students, professionals and parents looking to expand their learning around autism and ABA therapy. Our BCBAs also reminded us that while these listening tools are incredible for keeping us up to date in the world of applied behavior analysis, it’s important to broaden our horizons in other areas, as well. They recommend seeking out podcasts and other learning materials on topics such as general health, neuroscience and even current events, since all can help with parent training. You do not have to be “all ABA, all the time,” to get the benefits of it.
Learn More About Autism Therapy
At Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers, continuing education and growth is a top priority for our team. From the moment our Hopebridge heroes are hired, we aim to set them (and our kiddos!) up for success, whether it’s through the onboarding process or paid, on-the-job training opportunities through our Behavior Analysis Fellowship (BAF) program. For more information on what it’s like to work – and learn – with Hopebridge, visit our job site to view open positions at centers across the country.