The EveryDay ABA Podcast

The Mental Load of Motherhood: Using ABA to Lighten the Load

Are you constantly keeping track of everyone’s schedules, to-do lists, meal plans, and birthday gifts—even if your partner “helps out”? That invisible, overwhelming responsibility is called mental load, and it’s a major factor in burnout for many mothers and caregivers. In this episode of Everyday ABA, hosts Paola (BCBA), Leslie and Brittany (RBT) explore how Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can be used to reduce and redistribute the maternal mental load—the often unseen cognitive labor that women carry in their households. The hosts unpack what mental load really is, why it disproportionately affects women over men, and the behavioral science behind why it’s so hard to delegate. They also share their lived experiences and insights from modern books on domestic life and relationships. Listeners will walk away with actionable ABA strategies—like task analysis, positive reinforcement, and behavior contracts—to help share the load more fairly among caregivers.
 
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📖 Buy the books!  How Not to Hate Your Husband after Kids
Fair Play
Find your Unicorn Space
 
Learning Objectives for CEU- By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to:
Define the concept of maternal mental load and describe psychological and behavioral factors that contribute to the unequal distribution of mental load within households.
Identify and analyze examples of behavioral chains that contribute to maternal mental load and explain how behavioral momentum and rule-governed behavior maintain these patterns.
Develop a task analysis for a common household responsibility (e.g., managing laundry, preparing school lunches) and assign clear ownership of each step to promote shared responsibility.
Create a behavior contract for one household task, specifying task ownership, performance expectations, and reinforcement contingencies to increase partner participation
References: 
Daminger, A. (2019). The cognitive dimension of household labor. American Sociological Review, 84(4), 609–633. 
Dunn, J. (2017). How not to hate your husband after kids: A survival guide. Little, Brown and Company.
Rodsky, E. (2019). Fair play: A game-changing solution for when you have too much to do (and more life to live). G.P. Putnam’s Sons.
Rodsky, E. (2021). Find your unicorn space: Reclaim your creative life in a too-busy world. G.P. Putnam’s Sons.
Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and human behavior. Macmillan.
Walzer, S. (1996). Thinking about the baby: Gender and transitions into parenthood. Gender & Society, 10(5), 592–621. https://doi.org/10.1177/089124396010005005

Behavior on the Beach: The ABA Behind Timeshare Selling

In this episode of Everyday ABA, hosts Paola (BCBA), Brittany (RBT), and special guest Liz (RN) break down the behavioral science and social psychology behind the sales tactics used in timeshare presentations. From positive reinforcement traps to cognitive dissonance, this episode helps listeners identify the persuasive strategies they’ve probably fallen for—and teaches them how to push back using applied behavior analysis (ABA) concepts. They walk you through real-life examples from a recent timeshare pitch Liz and Paola attended, unpacking every antecedent, motivating operation, verbal prompt, and reinforcement schedule that nudged them toward a purchase they didn’t want. Whether you're an ABA practitioner, social psychology enthusiast, or just trying to avoid financial regret on vacation, this episode will leave you thinking: Was that really a free massage... or was it just the first SD?
 
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📲 Follow us on Instagram: @EverydayABA.3 for daily ABA insights and behind-the-scenes podcast updates.
📖 Get your CEU certificate: HERE
 
📚 Learning Objectives for CEU:
Identify and define at least 3 behavioral principles used during sales presentations like timeshare pitches.
Label examples of verbal behavior and rule-governed behavior present in persuasive scripts used by sales personnel during a timeshare pitch.
Demonstrate a self-management strategy that could be used to avoid coercive persuasion in high-pressure contexts.
 
References: 
Aronson, E., Wilson, T. D., Akert, R. M., & Sommers, S. R. (2022). Principles of Social Psychology. LibreTexts.   
Cialdini, R. B. (2009). Influence: Science and Practice (5th ed.). Pearson Education.
Festinger, L. (1957). A Theory of Cognitive Dissonance. Stanford University Press.
Freedman, J. L., & Fraser, S. C. (1966). Compliance without pressure: The foot-in-the-door technique. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 4(2), 195–202.
Miltenberger, R. G. (2016). Behavior Modification: Principles and Procedures (6th ed.). Cengage Learning.
Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and Human Behavior. Macmillan.
Skinner, B. F. (1957). Verbal Behavior. Appleton-Century-Crofts.

Autism Acceptance Month: Myths, Language, and the Power of Self-Advocacy

In this episode of Everyday ABA, your favorite hosts Paola, Leslie, and Brittanny explore the shift from Autism Awareness Month to Autism Acceptance Month, highlighting why inclusion and understanding matter more than ever. They dive into the concept of neurodiversity and the impact of language in advocacy, discussing the ongoing debate between identity-first and person-first language. The hosts debunk common autism myths, including misconceptions about anti-social behavior, empathy, and parenting. They emphasize the importance of understanding invisible disabilities and challenge outdated theories that contribute to stigma. The conversation also covers parental concerns, the truth about vaccines and autism, and the role of research in promoting acceptance. Listeners will gain valuable insights into supporting self-advocacy within the autism community. Tune in to learn how to move beyond stereotypes and embrace a more nuanced understanding of autism.
 
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📲 Follow us on Instagram: @EverydayABA.3 for daily ABA insights and behind-the-scenes podcast updates.
📖 Get your CEU certificate:  HERE
📔 Buy the book! In a Different Key: The Story of Autism
CEU Learning Objectives: 
By the end of the episode, listeners will be able to describe the historical shift from Autism Awareness Month to Autism Acceptance Month, including reasons why the change was made and how it reflects the goals of the neurodiversity movement.
After listening to the episode, listeners will be able to identify and correct common misconceptions about autism, including how the misconceptions have historically influenced clinical and educational practices.
 
References:
Autism Society of America. (2021). Why Autism Acceptance Month? https://autismsociety.org
Donvan, J., & Zucker, C. (2016). In a different key: The story of autism. Crown Publishers. 
Jones, R. A., & Mandell, D. S. (2022). Autism Acceptance Month—History and impact. Neurology Advisor. https://www.neurologyadvisor.com
Kapp, S. K., Gillespie-Lynch, K., Sherman, L. E., & Hutman, T. (2013). Deficit, difference, or both? Autism and neurodiversity. Developmental Psychology, 49(1), 59–71. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0028353
McIntyre, L. L., & Zemantic, P. K. (2020). Parent training interventions for young children with autism spectrum disorder. BMC Psychiatry, 20(1), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-020-02973-7
Neely, L., Rispoli, M., Gerow, S., & Hong, E. (2016). Community support and involvement for individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A review of the literature. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 46(8), 2510–2523. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-016-2835-2
Sandbank, M., Bottema-Beutel, K., Crowley, S., Cassidy, M., Dunham, K., Feldman, J. I., & Woynaroski, T. G. (2020). Project AIM: Autism intervention meta-analysis for studies of young children. Psychological Bulletin, 146(1), 1–29. https://doi.org/10.1037/bul0000215
Veenstra, A., Lamb, Y. N., & Hughes, D. A. (2022). Patient outcomes after applied behavior analysis for autism spectrum disorder: A pilot study. BMC Psychiatry, 22(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-021-03651-5

ABA Insights from the Love Is Blind Reunion

In this episode of Everyday ABA, hosts Paola, Brittany, and Leslie break down the Love Is Blind reunion, exploring the dynamics of love, commitment, and cognitive dissonance. They analyze how core value conflicts challenge compatibility and reflect on how editing shaped their perceptions of the couples. The conversation explores intimacy, emotional investment, and the importance of mutual reinforcement in relationships. They also examine communication issues, financial stability, trust, and emotional maturity, highlighting the lessons couples can learn from navigating these complexities. Tune in for insights on building stronger, value-aligned partnerships.
 
☕ Support your favorite ABA podcast hosts by showing them love at buymeacoffee.com/everydayaba
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Help us reach more people by following the show + , turning on automatic downloads, and leaving a 5-star review! 
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @EverydayABA.3 for daily ABA insights and behind-the-scenes podcast updates.
📖 Get your CEU certificate: HERE
 
Learning Objectives for CEU:
Participants will be able to identify at least one behavioral strategy to resolve cognitive dissonance.
Participants will be able to analyze how misaligned values and poor communication patterns function as negative reinforcement or punishers in relationship dynamics. 
Participants will be able to apply behavioral principles to suggest strategies for increasing positive communication patterns and reinforcing emotional closeness in romantic relationships.
 
References:
Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Stanford University Press.
Kerckhoff, A. C., & Davis, K. (1962). Value consensus and need complementarity in mate selection. American Sociological Review, 27(3), 295–303. https://doi.org/10.2307/2089791
Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and human behavior. Macmillan.
Sternberg, R. J. (1986). A triangular theory of love. Psychological Review, 93(2), 119–135.

Applying ABA to Relationship Drama: Behavioral Insights from Love Is Blind

In this juicy and insightful episode of Everyday ABA, your hosts Paola, Brittany, and Leslie dive into the complexities of relationships through the lens of Netflix’s hit reality show Love Is Blind. From emotional breakups to setting relationship boundaries, the hosts utilize Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles to unpack the behaviors, motivations, and communication patterns of the couples. They explore the influence of social media on perceptions of relationships and the relevance of love languages in understanding a partners' needs. As always, they keep it real with sharp observations about relationship red flags and why setting boundaries is crucial for emotional health.
 
☕ Support your favorite ABA podcast hosts by showing them love at buymeacoffee.com/everydayaba
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Help us reach more people by following the show + , turning on automatic downloads, and leaving a 5-star review! 
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @EverydayABA.3 for daily ABA insights and behind-the-scenes podcast updates.
📖 Get your CEU certificate ➥  Here
📢 Don’t miss Part 4 next week, where we analyze the breakups at the altar & the Reunion! 
 
CEU Learning Objectives: 
1️⃣ Participants will be able to identify and describe at least two examples of how conflicting contingencies (e.g., emotional connection vs. misaligned values) created tension for the couples and explain how these examples reflect behavioral principles such as reinforcement, punishment, and motivating operations. 
2️⃣ Participants will be able to define the concept of social validity and identify two examples from the episode where social approval (e.g., family or societal expectations) influenced the participants' relationship decisions. 
3️⃣ Participants will be able to identify and analyze at least two examples of verbal behavior from the episode and explain how the form and function of communication influenced relationship dynamics.
 
References 
Cialdini, R. B. (2001). Influence: Science and practice (4th ed.). Allyn & Bacon.
Odum, A. L. (2011). Delay discounting: I'm a k, you’re a k. Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, 96(3), 427-439. Skinner, B. F. (1957). Verbal behavior. Appleton-Century-Crofts.

Love is Blind but ABA Isn't

In this episode of Everyday ABA, your hosts Paola, Leslie, and Brittanny dive deep into Netflix’s hit reality show Love Is Blind through the lens of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). They unpack the psychological and behavioral factors driving relationship dynamics on the show, from participant compensation and production techniques to the emotional impact of family opinions and financial compatibility.
The hosts explore key ABA principles such as reinforcement, punishment, and shaping to analyze how contestants form connections and handle relationship challenges. They also break down the complexities of jealousy and trust issues, highlighting the need for open communication and mutual understanding. Tune in to discover how ABA can help explain the success—or failure—of relationships, both on and off screen.
🎧 Listen now to uncover how behavior analysis can provide new insights into love, trust, and relationship dynamics!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Help us reach more people by following, turning on automatic downloads, and leaving a 5-star review! 
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @EverydayABA.3 for daily ABA insights and behind-the-scenes podcast updates.
☕ Support your favorite ABA podcast hosts at buymeacoffee.com/everydayaba
📖 Interested in CEUs? Get your certificate HERE!
📢 Don’t miss Part 3 next week, where we analyze Episodes 10-12!
 
 
🎓 LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR CEU CREDIT:
Participants will be able to describe the impact of delay discounting and commitment bias on rapid decision-making in relationships.
Compare and contrast the use of rule-governed behavior vs. contingency-shaped behavior in relationships
Participants will be able to identify and describe how reinforcement of short-term rewards (e.g., money, trips) can override long-term consequences in decision-making, 
 
References 
Cialdini, R. B. (2001). Influence: Science and practice (4th ed.). Allyn & Bacon.
Odum, A. L. (2011). Delay discounting: I'm a k, you’re a k. Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, 96(3), 427-439. Skinner, B. F. (1957). Verbal behavior. Appleton-Century-Crofts.

Love is Blind: ABA & Attachment Styles

Is love truly blind, or are contestants on Love Is Blind simply engaging in reinforcement-based decision-making? In this episode of Everyday ABA, hosts Paola, Brittany, and Leslie analyze the behavioral science behind episodes 1-6 of the Netflix reality show Love Is Blind. Using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and behavioral economics, they examine how attachment theory, reinforcement history, commitment bias, and motivating operations influence the formation of relationships inside the 'pods' within just 10 days. Whether a dedicated fan of Love Is Blind, an ABA professional, or someone seeking evidence-based relationship insights, this episode offers actionable takeaways for applying ABA to love and decision-making.
 
 
📅 Season 8 of Love Is Blind premiered on February 14, 2025, and we’re diving into Episodes 1-6,  no spoilers beyond that!
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💡 What reinforcement strategies would YOU use in the pods? DM us or comment on our latest episode with your thoughts!
📢 Don’t miss Part 2 next week, where we analyze Episodes 6-9!
 
🎓 LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR CEU: 
By the end of this episode, listeners will be able to:
✔️ Understand how attachment theory influences relationship behaviors
✔️  Analyze how verbal behavior shape romantic attraction on Love Is Blind using examples from the show.
✔️ Identify how motivating operations (MOs) and scarcity bias increase perceived value in relationship choices.
 
References: 
Ainsworth, M. D. S. (1978). The Bowlby-Ainsworth attachment theory. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 1(3), 436–438. 
Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and loss: Vol. 1. Attachment. Basic Books.
Cialdini, R. B. (2001). Influence: Science and practice (4th ed.). Allyn & Bacon.
Skinner, B. F. (1957). Verbal behavior. Appleton-Century-Crofts.

EveryDay ABA Ask Me Anything

Join us for a special Ask Me Anything episode where Paola, Brittanny, and Leslie answer listener-submitted questions. Your favorite hosts address topics ranging from career advice to reality TV guilty pleasures, offering insights and personal experiences. In addition to answering audience inquiries, the episode includes questions the hosts ask each other, providing a mix of humor and professional perspectives. 
☕ Support your favorite trio at https://buymeacoffee.com/everydayaba 
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📲 Share your experiences, feedback, or questions with us on Instagram. Follow us: @EveryDayABA.3  

Behavioral Coaching in Sports: Using ABA to Transform Athlete Development

In this episode, we dive into how Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles can revolutionize how coaches can assist in  athlete development. Whether you're a coach, ABA practitioner, sports psychologist, or sports enthusiast, this episode explores evidence-based strategies to enhance individual skills, optimize training methods, and enhance overall athletic performance. We discuss groundbreaking behavioral research and practical applications for on and off-the-field success.
 
 
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📌 Try using one of the strategies discussed in this episode during your next practice session and let us know how it worked!
🎧  Love this episode? Share it with your partner, best friend, or social media!
📲 Share your experiences, feedback, or questions with us on Instagram. Follow us: @EveryDayABA.3 
📜 Access you 1 FREE CEU Certificate HERE
 
 
What You'll Learn: 
How behavioral observation techniques (technical and behavioral) help coaches assess and enhance player performance.
How shaping can effectively refine skills like shooting form, defensive techniques, and endurance.
The role of positive and negative reinforcement in motivating athletes, promoting consistency, and boosting confidence.
Evidence-based ABA strategies to increase focus, generalize skills, and improve player engagement.
 
 
Learning Objectives for CEUs:
Participants will be able to describe at least two types of coaching observation (technical and behavioral) and explain how each can be applied to assess and enhance athletic performance.
Participants will demonstrate the ability to analyze athlete performance and behavior during practice sessions to identify at least three strengths and areas for improvement using behavior analytic principles.
Participants will accurately define and provide two examples each of positive and negative reinforcement strategies used in sports coaching to increase desirable player behaviors.
Participants will be able to evaluate the effectiveness of observation, shaping, and reinforcement techniques by measuring and reporting improvements in player performance over a defined period. 
 
References: 
May, B. K. (2021). Behavioral sports psychology: A behavior analytic approach to improving sports performance. In R. D. Mallott & A. A. Yazdani (Eds.), Special topics in behavior analysis. Pressbooks. 
Smith, R. E., & Smoll, F. L. (2016). Coaching behavior and effectiveness in sport and exercise psychology. In T. S. Horn & A. L. Smith (Eds.), Advances in sport and exercise psychology (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.

How to Use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and The Five Love Languages to Strengthen Relationships

🎙️ Want to build stronger connections this Valentine’s Day? Join hosts Paola, Leslie, and Brittany as they explore how Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and The Five Love Languages can enhance romantic, platonic, and business relationships. In this episode, we’ll discuss Valentine's Day as we break down reinforcement, preference assessments, and goal-setting- all through a behavioral lens! This trio combines humor, science, and practical advice to help you strengthen your relationships this Valentine’s Day and beyond!
 
☕ Love our content?  Support your favorite trio at https://buymeacoffee.com/everydayaba 
📢 Love this episode? Share it with your partner, best friend, or social media!
💡 Discover your reinforcement preferences! Take the Five Love Languages Quiz to see how ABA applies to your relationships.
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @EveryDayABA.3 
📜 Access you 1 FREE CEU Certificate HERE
📓 Buy the book The Five Love Languages
 
What You’ll Learn
How reinforcement strengthens romantic and platonic relationships
The Five Love Languages from a behavioral science perspective
Step-by-step guide to conducting a preference assessment for relationships
How to plan Valentine’s Day activities using behavior analysis
Using ABA strategies for self-love, friendships, and relationship success
 
 
Key ABA Strategies Discussed:
Reinforcement and preference assessments for love and relationships
Task analysis for planning a meaningful Valentine’s Day
Behaviorally aligned goal-setting for couples and individuals
Self-monitoring and reflection for relationship growth
 
 
Learning Objectives for CEUs:
Participants will identify how reinforcement applies to interpersonal relationships.
Participants will be able to explain the behavioral interpretation of The Five Love Languages.
Participants will  learn how to conduct a preference assessment to identify meaningful reinforcers in their personal relationships.
 
 
References:
Agus, M., Puddu, L., & Raffagnino, R. (2021). Exploring the similarity of partners’ love styles and their relationships with marital satisfaction: A dyadic approach. Sage Open, 11(4). https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440211040785
Chapman, G. D. (2015). The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts. Northfield Publishing. https://mavely.app.link/e/G7F8oe7icQb
Impett, E. A., Park, H. G., & Muise, A. (2024). Popular psychology through a scientific lens: Evaluating love languages from a relationship science perspective. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 33(2), 87–92. https://doi.org/10.1177/09637214231217663
Karandashev, V. (2015). A cultural perspective on romantic love. Online Readings in Psychology and Culture, 5(4), Article 2. https://doi.org/10.9707/2307-0919.1135
Rosales, R. (2019, February 11). The language of romantic love. Science of ABA. Retrieved from https://science.abainternational.org/2019/02/11/the-language-of-romantic-love/
 
 
Stay tuned for the next episode, where we explore how the principles of applied behavior analysis can make your everyday life more manageable and meaningful!