3 Pie Squared - ABA Business Leaders

Description In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, hosts Stephen and April Smith break down one of the most critical — and often misunderstood — parts of running an ABA business: billing. From choosing between in-house and outsourced billing to understanding payer contracts, they explore the practical steps that help your clinic stay compliant, efficient, and profitable. Stephen and April share hard-earned lessons about reading contracts carefully, negotiating rates, maintaining control over your billing process, and tracking denials to spot inefficiencies before they snowball. Whether you're just getting started or looking to clean up your current systems, this episode will help you take a closer look at your billing practices and ensure your business's financial health is as strong as your clinical outcomes. Key Takeaways Your billing setup isn't permanent. You can start in-house and later outsource—or vice versa. What matters is choosing the system that best fits your growth stage. Always read your contracts. Never sign a payer agreement without understanding every clause, rate, and responsibility. Every business partner should be knowledgeable about what they're agreeing to. Know your minimum rates. Rate negotiation might not happen in your first contract, but understanding what you can't afford to accept is vital to staying sustainable. You can't hand off full control. As April puts it, “Nobody will care about billing as much as you do.” Even if you delegate billing tasks, you need oversight and involvement to prevent problems. Track patterns and denials. Billing data tells a story—watching for repeated denials or errors helps you catch process issues before they become expensive. Clean billing builds value. When it comes time to sell your ABA business, well-organized, transparent billing records will give potential buyers confidence and increase your valuation. Sponsored by Silna This episode is sponsored by Silna, the first-ever Care Readiness Platform built specifically for ABA. Silna automates prior authorizations, benefit checks, and insurance monitoring to ensure your patients are financially cleared for care before sessions begin. Operating in 45+ states and serving over 50,000 patients, Silna helps ABA providers save thousands of hours by verifying eligibility, tracking expiring authorizations, and using AI to complete and submit all ABA-related authorization types.

In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, hosts Stephen and April Smith take it back to basics with a deep dive into one of the most overlooked but critical foundations of any ABA practice — policies and procedures. From compliance and hiring to accountability and growth, Stephen and April break down why written policies aren't just “paperwork,” but the structure that keeps your business legal, consistent, and scalable. Whether you're just getting started or refreshing an existing clinic, this episode is a must-listen for any ABA business owner serious about long-term success. Key Takeaways Compliance isn't optional. Follow your state's laws and regulations — even if past employers didn't. Policies help you hire better. Great staff want structure and clarity from day one. Get it out of your head. Your policies are the written version of your values and vision. Skip the AI shortcuts. Automated policies can miss crucial legal and ethical details. Follow through matters. Policies only work if you actually enforce them. Keep them alive. Review and update your policies monthly to stay current and consistent. Sponsored by MarginKeepers This episode is proudly sponsored by MarginKeepers — the go-to accounting and consulting team for ABA providers who want clean books, strong margins, and peace of mind.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

This week on the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, Stephen and April continue the Back to Basics series by tackling one of the most critical foundations for any ABA practice: operations agreements. From legal safeguards to conflict resolution, they break down the agreements and systems that keep a business running smoothly — and why getting them right early can save you major headaches later.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Market Analysis for ABA Businesses: Back To Basics This week on the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, Stephen and April continue the Back to Basics series with a practical deep dive into market analysis — one of the most important, and often misunderstood, steps in building an ABA company. From cutting through the noise of 40-page reports to understanding what your competitors really charge, this episode is all about asking the right questions and applying lessons you can actually use.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Episode Title: Start an ABA Company: Back To Basics This week on the ABA Business Leaders Podcast as part of their ‘back to basics' series for 2025, Stephen and April sit down to share hard-earned lessons about the early stages of business ownership. From carving out time while still in a 9–5 to setting boundaries that stick, they dig into the practical — and often overlooked — steps that can make or break an ABA business. From money management to mentorship, and from fighting isolation to facing failure, this episode is packed with insights for ABA leaders ready to take their first steps with confidence.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, hosts Stephen and April Smith get personal with some life updates, share exciting news about the growth of their team, and introduce new services—including billing support. They also announce an upcoming podcast series focused on startup advice and take on common misconceptions about what it really takes to start an ABA business. Whether you're in the early stages of planning your practice or already managing a growing team, this episode delivers practical insights about balance, planning, and the mindset shifts that fuel long-term success. And a big thank you to our sponsor, SILNA – supporting ABA providers with the tools and advocacy needed to strengthen the field.

ABA Business Leaders Podcast – Episode: “ABA Hotline & Community Questions!In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, hosts Stephen and April Smith discuss the launch of a new hotline ((737) 330-1432) for listeners to ask questions about running ABA practices. They dive into the most common concerns facing ABA business owners, including insurance claims, rate negotiation, cancellation policies, and the challenges of scheduling and hiring staff. Throughout the conversation, Stephen and April emphasize the importance of curiosity, clear communication, and structured onboarding to ensure high-quality services and sustainable business practices in the ABA field. Takeaways from this episode: Curiosity is valued in the ABA community—no question is too small or silly. Launching a hotline provides real-time guidance for practice owners. Insurance claims are often denied due to simple errors—attention to detail is critical. Understanding your minimum acceptable rates and negotiating contracts protects your business. Cancellation policies should be communicated clearly and enforced consistently. Scheduling challenges are common but solvable with operational planning. Hiring should focus on cultural fit and values alignment. Rigorous onboarding ensures staff are prepared to provide quality care. Collaboration and transparent communication improve overall service quality. Sponsored by MarginKeepers: This episode is brought to you by MarginKeepers, a team dedicated to helping ABA practices maintain financial clarity, streamline operations, and grow sustainably. Resources & Links: Stay ahead with practical insights through the ABA Business Leaders Podcast CEUs:

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Building ABA Teams That Thrive (Part 2): Managing ABA Business Caseloads In this follow-up episode, April and Stephen sit down once again with Maria and Caitlyn from ABYay! to continue the conversation on what it takes to lead, support, and grow successful ABA teams. This time, they explore the nitty-gritty of treatment plans, report writing, and building sustainable caseloads for BCBAs and supervisors. From clear documentation to curiosity-led feedback, Maria and Caitlyn offer a behind-the-scenes look at the systems and mindset that keep their staff supported and clients progressing.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Building ABA Teams That Thrive: Structure, Support & Culture! Sponsored by MarginKeepers In this two-part episode, April and Stephen sit down with Maria and Caitlyn—two key leaders at ABYay!—for a grounded, practical discussion on how to truly support the people working within your ABA business. From building trust through frequent check-ins to revamping training based on staff feedback, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone managing teams in behavior analysis. Together, they share how ABYay! is doing things differently: fostering collaboration, empowering supervisors, and intentionally building a culture where everyone feels heard, connected, and supported.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

ABA Business Leaders Podcast – Episode: How to Improve ABA Supervision with Allyson Wharam of ‘ABA in the Field' In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, April and Stephen sit down with Allyson Wharam of ‘ABA in the Field' to dive deep into the challenges and opportunities around ABA supervision. Whether you're a new BCBA stepping into a supervisory role or a seasoned leader looking to sharpen your skills, this conversation sheds light on how to build stronger, more effective supervision practices that support growth.They explore why self-assessment is critical, how to identify and close knowledge gaps, and why supervision is more than just oversight—it's intentional coaching. Plus, they discuss the importance of creating spaces for advocacy, reinforcing positive feedback loops, and redefining the BCBA credential as a starting point for lifelong learning.Inside the episode:

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Welcome to the ABA Business Leaders News, the go-to show for aspiring and current ABA practice owners who want to keep up to date with the latest happenings in the world of ABA. Every week, your hosts April and Stephen Smith bring you actionable insights, news, and real-world advice to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the wins of starting and running your own ABA practice.

Workplace conflict isn't just frustrating—it can derail your ABA team's morale, productivity, and culture. In this episode of 3 Pie Squared – ABA Business Leaders, April and Stephen unpack what workplace “drama” really looks like, why it happens, and how ABA business owners can address it without letting it take over. They explore root causes like miscommunication, unclear expectations, burnout, favoritism, and gossip—while offering practical strategies for resolution and culture building. From recognizing covert signs of toxic work environments to implementing real systems that support staff, this episode is packed with honest discussion and hard-earned insights from both clinical and leadership perspectives. Whether you're dealing with one difficult employee or widespread tension, this conversation will give you actionable ways to foster a more transparent, respectful, and supportive workplace.

In this episode of 3 Pie Squared – ABA Business Leaders, April and Stephen sit down for a candid conversation about what's keeping them grounded amidst the chaos of running a business. From using meditation to manage overwhelm to creating procedures for when no procedures exist, this conversation is full of relatable insights and sanity-saving strategies. They discuss how to create space between urgency and action, how to train staff on responding without panic, and why every ABA business owner needs a plan for when things don't go to plan. It's a raw and useful discussion about managing stress—even when things are going well. The episode also highlights the value of the ABA Business Leaders Membership, a powerful resource packed with 34 CEUs, step-by-step guidance, and a connected community of ABA professionals ready to grow ethically and sustainably. Starting a practice, not sure where to start? Want to make sure you have everything needed for your established practice? Download our free start-up list here. Explore membership options with 3 Pie Squared and access exclusive resources for ABA business leaders, click here.

In this episode of 3 Pie Squared – ABA Business Leaders, we're diving into a question that stirs up passionate debate across the ABA field: Should a BCBA always own the clinic? Guest Jennifer Helten, founder of Unique Pathways, joins Stephen and April to explore why non-clinician ownership doesn't mean lower quality—and how it might just be the key to a more balanced and sustainable ABA model. Jennifer brings her decades of experience to the table and shares her inspiring journey from nanny to business owner, guided by a deep, personal mission to empower children and families. Together, they explore the power of collaboration between business and clinical leaders, and why mutual trust, clear roles, and a commitment to outcomes are the pillars of an ethical ABA practice. What you'll learn: The ethics and effectiveness of non-BCBA-owned clinics How business owners and clinical directors can work in harmony Building systems that prioritize staff training and child outcomes Real-world strategies for balancing sustainability and clinical care

In this raw and heartfelt episode of 3 Pie Squared – ABA Business Leaders, April and Stephen open up about a crucial topic that impacts many in the field: ABA business owner burnout. From long hours to emotional exhaustion, they share personal stories, explore the blurred line between burnout and depression, and challenge the culture of wearing burnout like a badge of honor. April leads a deep discussion about how burnout shows up behaviorally, the role of cynicism, and how business owners can unintentionally pass burnout down to their teams. Stephen adds candid insights on mental load, boundaries, and the stress of juggling personal and professional responsibilities. They also touch on systems that help, like regular check-ins and building a support network, plus the impact of societal pressures and lack of community in modern leadership roles. Whether you're in the startup phase or deep into your ABA journey, this episode invites you to pause and reflect. Let's stop normalizing burnout—and start creating sustainable, balanced ABA practices. This episode is proudly sponsored by MarginKeepers

Thinking about expanding from in-home ABA services to opening your own clinic? Before you sign that lease or envision your dream sensory room, Stephen and April break down the real questions you need to ask first. In this episode of the 3 Pie Squared – ABA Business Leaders podcast, they share hard-earned lessons and practical insights on when — and if — a clinic is the right next step for your ABA practice. From financial forecasting and zoning laws to lease pitfalls and staff transitions, this conversation covers what every ABA business owner needs to consider before making the move. They also dive into: Why most in-home clients won't transition to clinic-based services (and what to do about it) The overlooked operational risks that come with running a clinic Planning with intention — not pressure — and aligning your business vision with your personal life Whether owning office space or leasing is right for you The importance of marketing, staffing strategy, and quality control KPIs for scaling Looking for support as you grow your ABA business?

The Truth Behind Client and Staff Cancellations Client and staff cancellations are one of the most common — and frustrating — challenges in ABA practice management. In this episode of 3 Pie Squared - ABA Business Leaders, April and Stephen take a deep dive into the hidden patterns behind cancellations and how they impact everything from staff morale to medical necessity and insurance utilization. They explore how to shift your mindset from reactive frustration to proactive analysis by viewing cancellations as valuable data points. Learn how to track the right metrics, identify patterns in time-of-day, geography, and staff engagement, and why clear definitions and consistent data collection are key. Whether you're struggling with split shifts, scheduling gaps, or persistent call-outs, this episode offers practical strategies and a challenge to help you start auditing your own cancellation patterns to build a more efficient and supportive ABA business.

Local Owner Highlight – When to Scale Your ABA Business In this episode of ABA Business Leaders, we sit down with Chris Robinson, owner of ABYAY, and Maria Zito, director at ABYAY, to discuss the challenges and strategies behind scaling an ABA business. From leadership development to overcoming staffing hurdles, Chris and Maria share their journey, including key insights on when and how to expand sustainably. Key topics include: ✅ Building and strengthening a leadership team ✅ Managing rapid staff changes and maternity leaves ✅ Keeping BCBA, RBT, and client needs balanced ✅ Strategies for acquiring new clients while maintaining quality ✅ Lessons learned from stepping back as an owner If you're looking to scale your ABA practice while maintaining quality care and team stability, this episode is a must-listen! Learn more about Chris Robinson & Maria Zito's ABA practice at ABYAY

In this episode of 3 Pie Squared - ABA Business Leaders, we welcome Melanie Thurston, a critical care nurse, author, and dedicated mother to a child with autism. Melanie shares her personal journey navigating the challenges of raising a child with autism, balancing professional life, and building strong caregiver relationships. She discusses the importance of supporting parents during the ABA intake process, reducing barriers for caregivers, and fostering collaboration between ABA providers and families. Melanie also touches on critical topics such as the impact on siblings, transitioning into adulthood, and the emotional journey parents face. Her heartfelt insights provide invaluable lessons for ABA business owners, clinicians, and caregivers striving to create meaningful, supportive relationships. About Our Guest: Melanie Thurston is a critical care nurse specializing in cardiovascular intensive care and ECMO life support. She is also an author, sharing her experiences as a parent of a child with autism to inspire and support other families navigating similar journeys. Her book, Mom, I'm Mater: My Life as an Autism Mom, provides a raw and heartfelt account of life as a special needs parent. Learn more about Melanie and her work at booksbymelaniethurston.com. Resources and Support:

Mastering Marketing – Local Outreach Done Right In this episode of 3 Pie Squared - ABA Business Leaders, we dive deep into the power of local outreach and ethical marketing for ABA practices. Marketing expert Matt Harrington, founder of ABA Digital Marketing, joins us to share actionable strategies for ABA business owners to build meaningful referral networks, enhance community connections, and stand out from corporate competitors. Matt explains why traditional marketing tactics—like dropping off donuts—fall short and how to create lasting relationships with pediatricians, speech therapists, and community partners. He also covers Google Business Profiles, online presence, and ethical ways to generate referrals to ensure your practice gets noticed. If you're an ABA business owner looking to strengthen your local outreach efforts, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you grow your practice the right way.

How to Scale Your ABA Business Scaling an ABA business is more than just adding clients—it requires financial planning, marketing strategies, and operational systems that support long-term success. In this episode of 3 Pie Squared - ABA Business Leaders, we dive into the key factors that determine whether your practice is truly ready to scale. Our guests, Matt Harrington, BCBA (abadigitalmarketing.com) and Johanna Eddy, CPA (Margin Keepers), share their expertise on: Avoiding common financial mistakes when growing your ABA practice The importance of structured pay scales and financial planning Effective marketing strategies to attract and retain ideal clients How to ensure your business maintains quality as you scale

Closing an ABA practice is an emotional and strategic decision. In this episode, we sit down with Mallory Stinger, BCBA, who shares her journey of closing her ABA business after years of dedication. We discuss the challenges of letting go, managing emotions, and planning for what comes next. Whether you're thinking about transitioning out of your practice or just curious about the process, this conversation provides valuable insights into ABA practice management, business transitions, and professional growth. About Our Guest: Mallory Stinger, BCBA, has been in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis since 2009 and became a BCBA in 2016. She initially entered ABA while searching for a teaching job in El Paso, Texas, and quickly found her passion in the field. After years of building a successful ABA practice, Mallory made the difficult decision to transition out of ownership for personal and professional growth. She now focuses on supporting the ABA community in new ways, including collaborating on CEU content and professional development. Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

Red Flags in ABA Service Providers As the ABA industry grows, so do the number of service providers offering support to ABA businesses. But how do you know who to trust? In this episode of the 3 Pie Squared - ABA Business Leaders podcast, Stephen and April discuss the major red flags to watch for when choosing consultants, service providers, and vendors for your ABA practice. From overpriced services to companies with no real ABA experience, we break down what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to protect your business. Whether you're hiring a biller, an attorney, or a consultant, this episode will help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Sponsored by MarginKeepers Concentrate on the science, leave the accounting to us! We have in-depth knowledge of the Applied Behavior Analysis field. Let MarginKeepers handle your bookkeeping so you can focus on growing your practice. Learn more at https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/MarginKeepers. Resources for ABA Business Owners ✅ Starting a practice, not sure where to start? Want to make sure you have everything needed for your established practice? Download our free startup list here. ✅ Explore membership options with 3 Pie Squared and access exclusive resources for ABA business leaders here.

In this episode of the 3 Pie Squared - ABA Business Leaders podcast, hosts Stephen and April welcome Joseph Wilson, Operations Manager at Imagination Station. Joseph and his wife recently launched their ABA practice and are navigating the critical process of onboarding new staff. Together, they dive deep into the challenges and lessons learned when hiring, training, and supporting Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs).Key topics covered include:The complexities of onboarding and credentialing new RBTs.Balancing flexibility, boundaries, and expectations with new hires.Developing job descriptions and skill assessments for effective onboarding.The pros and cons of hiring experienced versus "green" (new) staff.Creating processes to ensure staff development and retention.Whether you're just starting your ABA business or have been running one for years, this episode offers valuable insights into refining your hiring and onboarding practices.This episode is brought to you by Margin Keepers. Running an ABA business comes with its share of challenges—managing clients, staff, and insurance is no easy feat. Leave the accounting to the experts! Margin Keepers specializes in ABA business finances and can give you the peace of mind to focus on what really matters—your clients and your practice's growth.