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.

🎯 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.

🔹 Sponsored by Margin Keepers Concentrate on the science, leave the accounting to us! Margin Keepers has in-depth knowledge of the Applied Behavior Analysis field. Learn more at https://3piesquared.com/business-affiliate/MarginKeepers

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

🎯 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, including the ABA Business Leaders Membership, featuring 34 CEUs, webinars, expert panels, and a network of practice owners. Click here.

Meet Our Guest: Jennifer Helten is the owner and founder of Unique Pathways. Her path into ABA began unexpectedly—but her purpose was always clear. After experiencing personal loss as a child and discovering the power of advocacy through grief, Jennifer has spent over 20 years championing children and their families. Unique Pathways is her commitment in action: a place where kids are met at their level, given a voice, and supported every step of the way.