

Functional Relations
Zachary Bird, PhD, BCBA-D and Caleb Davis, PhD, BCBA-D
An ABA podcast where Dr. Zachary Bird and Dr. Caleb Davis set aside time to have engaging conversation with experts in the field of behavior analysis to explore topics like ethics of functional analysis, effective supervision practices, translating research to practice, and others.
BACB, IBAO, and QABA CEUs are available for listeners. To purchase, visit www.functionalrelationspodcast.com
To deliver social praise or aversive stimulation, you can email us at functionalrelationspodcast@gmail.com
BACB, IBAO, and QABA CEUs are available for listeners. To purchase, visit www.functionalrelationspodcast.com
To deliver social praise or aversive stimulation, you can email us at functionalrelationspodcast@gmail.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 1, 2025 • 59min
#28 - How YOU Can Bring ABA to Hospitals w/ Dr. Casey Clay
In this episode, Zach and Caleb talk to Dr. Casey Clay about how behavior analysts can bring ABA to hospital settings. 1 learning CE is available for this episode. You can purchase it at https://www.functionalrelationspodcast.com If you feel that our podcast is a valuable contribution to the field of ABA, please consider supporting us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/functionalrelationspodcast References: Allen, K. D., Barone, V. J., & Kuhn, B. R. (1993). A behavioral prescription for promoting applied behavior analysis within pediatrics. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 26(4), 493-502. Friman, P. C. (2010). Come on in, the water is fine: Achieving mainstream relevance through integration with primary medical care. The Behavior Analyst, 33, 19-36. Hagopian, L. P., Kurtz, P. F., Bowman, L. G., O'Connor, J. T., & Cataldo, M. F. (2023). A neurobehavioral continuum of care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with severe problem behavior. Children's Health Care, 52(1), 45-69. Lambert, J. M., Staubitz, J. E., Roane, J. T., Houchins‐Juárez, N. J., Juárez, A. P., Sanders, K. B., & Warren, Z. E. (2017). Outcome summaries of latency‐based functional analyses conducted in hospital inpatient units. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 50(3), 487-494.

Feb 1, 2025 • 1h 3min
#27 - The Future of ABA is Now: AI, VR, and Ethics w/ Dr. Ellie Kazemi
In this episode, Zach and Caleb discuss new technology with Dr. Ellie Kazemi, and its implications for training, ethics, and the future of ABA. Bill Gates discussing the internet with Letterman in 1995: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBSLUbpJvwA&ab_channel=TheQuantumRecord To further support us, check out our silly video at www.patreon.com/functionalrelationspodcast References: Chang, A. A., Kazemi, E., Esmaeili, V., & Davies, M. S. (2024). The effectiveness of virtual reality training: A systematic review. Journal of Organizational Behavior Management, 44(3), 214-232. DiGennaro Reed, F. D., Blackman, A. L., Erath, T. G., Brand, D., & Novak, M. D. (2018). Guidelines for using behavioral skills training to provide teacher support. Teaching Exceptional Children, 50(6), 373-380. Hineline, P. N. (1983). When we speak of knowing. The Behavior Analyst, 6(2), 183. Lotfizadeh, A. D., McCoy, E., & Kazemi, E. (2024). Robots as behavior change agents: Can robots teach behavior technicians to implement differential reinforcement?. Behavior Analysis: Research and Practice. Shapiro, M., & Kazemi, E. (2017). A review of training strategies to teach individuals implementation of behavioral interventions. Journal of Organizational Behavior Management, 37(1), 32-62.

Jan 1, 2025 • 1h 5min
#26 - Behavioral Economics for Real-World Interventions w/ Dr. Brent Kaplan
Dr. Brent Kaplan, a behavioral scientist and data expert affiliated with Advocates for Human Potential, dives into the fascinating world of behavioral economics. He explains how this field merges behavioral science and economics, uncovering why people sometimes behave irrationally. Kaplan shares insights on demand functions, optimal reinforcement schedules, and the significance of adjusting token economies to maintain motivation. He also discusses individual differences in delay tolerance, emphasizing the importance of tailoring interventions for effective outcomes.

Dec 1, 2024 • 1h 7min
#25 - Matching Law in Real-Life Interventions w/ Dr. Brent Kaplan
In this episode, Zach and Caleb discuss using the matching law in real-life interventions with Dr. Brent Kaplan. Check out Dr. Kaplan's Website to access copies of his publications, try out his behavioral-oriented software, and view other projects he's working on: https://codedbx.com/ To further support us, check out our silly video at www.patreon.com/functionalrelationspodcast. References: Kaplan, B. A. & Reed, D. D. (2012). The matching law: A tutorial for practitioners. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 4(2), 15-24. doi: 10.1007/BF03391780 Reed, D. D., Niileksela, C., & Kaplan, B. A. (2013). Behavioral economics: A tutorial for behavior analysts in practice. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 6, 34-54. doi: 10.1007/BF03391790

Nov 1, 2024 • 1h 44min
#24 - Using Motivating Operations Like a Pro w/ Dr. Sarah Frampton
In this episode, Zach and Caleb talk with Dr. Sarah Frampton about teaching mands, "deprivation" as an ABA term, indicating responses, interrupting chaining procedures, and the ethics of mand training. Apply to learn from Dr. Frampton and others in the University Nebraska at Omaha ABA master's program: https://www.unomaha.edu/college-of-arts-and-sciences/psychology/academics/graduate-programs/aba-program/index.php Mand training role play scenario supplemental materials: https://static-content.springer.com/esm/art%3A10.1007%2Fs40617-024-00985-3/MediaObjects/40617_2024_985_MOESM1_ESM.docx To further support us, check out our silly video at www.patreon.com/functionalrelationspodcast. References: Frampton, S. E., Davis, C. R., Meleshkevich, O., & Axe, J. B. (2024). A Clinical Tutorial on Methods to Capture and Contrive Establishing Operations to Teach Mands. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 1-13. Frampton, S. E., Axe, J. B., Davis, C. R., Meleshkevich, O., & Li, M. H. (2024). A tutorial on indicating responses and their importance in mand training. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 1-12. Shafer, E. (1995). A review of interventions to teach a mand repertoire. The Analysis of Verbal Behavior, 12, 53-66.

Oct 1, 2024 • 1h 4min
#23 - Using Radical Behaviorism to Set and Accomplish Goals w/ Dr. Adithyan "Dithu" Rajaraman - Pt. 2
In Part 2 of a 2 part interview with Dr. Adithyan "Dithu" Rajaraman, Zach and Caleb discuss using radical behaviorism to set and accomplish goals. 1 learning CE is available for this episode. You can purchase it at https://www.functionalrelationspodcast.com If you feel that our podcast is a valuable contribution to the field of ABA, please consider supporting us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/functionalrelationspodcast References: Baum, W. M. (2017). Understanding behaviorism: Behavior, culture, and evolution. John Wiley & Sons. Catania, A. C. (1975). The myth of self-reinforcement. Behaviorism, 3(2), 192-199. Peterson, S. M., Aljadeff-Abergel, E., Eldridge, R. R., VanderWeele, N. J., & Acker, N. S. (2021). Conceptualizing self-determination from a behavioral perspective: The role of choice, self-control, and self-management. Journal of Behavioral Education, 30, 299-318. Skinner, B. F. (1984). Selection by consequences. Behavioral and brain sciences, 7(4), 477-481.

Sep 1, 2024 • 1h
#22 - Using Radical Behaviorism to Set and Accomplish Goals w/ Dr. Adithyan "Dithu" Rajaraman - Pt. 1
In Part 1 of a 2 part interview with Dr. Adithyan "Dithu" Rajaraman, Zach and Caleb discuss using radical behaviorism to set and accomplish goals. 1 learning CE is available for this episode. You can purchase it at https://www.functionalrelationspodcast.com If you feel that our podcast is a valuable contribution to the field of ABA, please consider supporting us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/functionalrelationspodcast References: Baum, W. M. (2017). Understanding behaviorism: Behavior, culture, and evolution. John Wiley & Sons. Catania, A. C. (1975). The myth of self-reinforcement. Behaviorism, 3(2), 192-199. Peterson, S. M., Aljadeff-Abergel, E., Eldridge, R. R., VanderWeele, N. J., & Acker, N. S. (2021). Conceptualizing self-determination from a behavioral perspective: The role of choice, self-control, and self-management. Journal of Behavioral Education, 30, 299-318. Skinner, B. F. (1984). Selection by consequences. Behavioral and brain sciences, 7(4), 477-481.

Aug 1, 2024 • 1h 4min
#21 - Using SPACE to Treat Childhood Anxiety w/ Dr. Shauna Lynne
In this episode, Zach and Caleb discuss treating childhood anxiety through a parent training program called "SPACE" with Dr. Shauna Lynne. 1 learning CE is available for this episode. You can purchase it at https://www.functionalrelationspodcast.com If you feel that our podcast is a valuable contribution to the field of ABA, please consider supporting us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/functionalrelationspodcast Things to check out from the episode: SPACE website - https://www.spacetreatment.net/ Dr. Shauna's practice - https://www.newbridgetherapy.com Our new website - https://www.functionalrelationspodcast.com References: Lebowitz, E. R., & Majdick, J. M. (2020). SPACE, Parent-Based Treatment for Childhood and Adolescent Anxiety: Clinical Case Illustration. Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, 34(2). Lebowitz, E. R., Marin, C., Martino, A., Shimshoni, Y., & Silverman, W. K. (2020). Parent-based treatment as efficacious as cognitive-behavioral therapy for childhood anxiety: A randomized noninferiority study of supportive parenting for anxious childhood emotions. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 59(3), 362-372. Lebowitz, E. R., Omer, H., Hermes, H., & Scahill, L. (2014). Parent training for childhood anxiety disorders: The SPACE program. Cognitive and behavioral practice, 21(4), 456-469. Rozenblat, S., Shimshoni, Y., Lebowitz, E. R., Perez, M., & Koller, J. (2023). A pilot trial of SPACE (Supportive parenting for anxious childhood emotions) in autism. Child Psychiatry & Human Development, 1-15. Storch, E. A., Guzick, A. G., Ayton, D. M., Palo, A. D., Kook, M., Candelari, A. E., ... & Goodman, W. K. (2024). Randomized trial comparing standard versus light intensity parent training for anxious youth. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 173, 104451.

Jul 23, 2024 • 2min
New Episode August 1st!
On August 1st, 2024, Functional Relations Podcast returns! Zach and Caleb will be back with all new guests and a new website for immediately downloadable CE certificates too! www.functionalrelationspodcast.com

Jan 28, 2022 • 1h 13min
S3E5 - The Supervisor Experience: Using ABA to Support Trainees w/ Dr. Diana Parry-Cruwys and Dr. Jackie MacDonald
In the fifth episode of Season 3, Zach and Caleb discuss updated fieldwork requirements and recent research on systems for promoting successful fieldwork experiences with Dr. Diana Parry-Cruwys and Dr. Jackie MacDonald. Season 3 of the Functional Relations podcast is titled "The Experience". Each episode will alternate between the supervisor experience and the trainee experience. 1 supervision learning CE is available for this episode. You can purchase it at https://www.functionalrelationspodcast.com If you feel that our podcast is a valuable contribution to the field of ABA, please consider supporting us on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/functionalrelationspodcast Things to check out from the episode: BCBA Fieldwork Requirements: https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2022-BCBA-Fieldwork-Standards_200501.pdf Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts: https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Ethics-Code-for-Behavior-Analysts-210902.pdf References: Parry-Cruwys, D., Atkinson, R., & MacDonald, J. (2021). Teaching Graduate Students to Identify and Adhere to Practicum Requirements. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 1-10. Parry-Cruwys, D., & MacDonald, J. (2021). Using Gamification to Promote Accurate Data Entry of Practicum Experience Hours in Graduate Students. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 14, 1-10.


