In this episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben Reiman welcomes Heather Sauyaq Jean Kwamboka Gordon, an Indigenous scholar, advocate, and community-engaged researcher whose work spans Alaska, the Arctic, Indigenous well-being, subsistence practices, climate action, and youth leadership. Heather explores the deeper meaning of subsistence beyond food harvesting, describing it as a relationship of reciprocity, responsibility, nurturance, and connection with the natural world. She shares how Indigenous communities understand well-being through relationships with land, culture, language, spirituality, family, and future generations.  The conversation examines Indigenous methodologies, connectedness as a protective factor, the impacts of colonization on Arctic communities, and the role of youth leadership in addressing climate change and cultural revitalization. Heather also reflects on Inupiaq values such as humility, conflict resolution, honesty, and collective responsibility, offering lessons that extend far beyond Indigenous communities. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3xeyf_swdi8 Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Contact Heather LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/hjgordon/   Links and Resources   People Mentioned Dr. Onowa McIvor Whitinuihttps://www.uvic.ca/education/indigenous/our-faculty/profiles/mcivor-whitinui-onowa.php Linda Tuhiwai Smith  https://www.wananga.ac.nz/about/awanuiarangi-council/linda-tuhiwai-smith/ Ninilchik Village Tribe https://www.ninilchiktribe-nsn.gov/ Alice Spotted Bear and Walter Soboleff Commission on Native Childrenhttps://nni.arizona.edu/commission-native-children-archives/home   Global Indigenous Youth Summit on Climate Change https://futureearth.org/global-indigenous-youth-summit-on-climate-change/ Center for Native American Youth https://www.cnay.org/ Inuit Circumpolar Council https://www.inuitcircumpolar.com/   If you enjoyed this conversation with Heather, you may also be interested in these related Behaviour Speak episodes that explore Indigenous connectedness, leadership, cultural identity, climate action, psychology, and community wellness. Episode 231: The Indigenous Connectedness Framework with Dr. Jessica Saniguq Ullrich A deeper exploration of the Indigenous Connectedness Framework and the growing body of research examining the relationship between connectedness, culture, identity, spirituality, and wellness in Indigenous communities. This episode provides important context for many of the concepts discussed in Heather's conversation. 🔗 Listen to Episode 231: The Indigenous Connectedness Framework with Dr. Jessica Saniguq Ullrich Katisha Paul Part 1: Finding Her Voice - Indigenous Leadership, Resilience & Healing In this powerful conversation, Katisha Paul shares her journey of leadership, advocacy, resilience, and healing. The episode highlights themes of identity, community, and Indigenous leadership that closely align with Heather's discussion of youth leadership and cultural connectedness. 🔗 Listen to Katisha Paul Part 1: Finding Her Voice One Heart, One Mind: Indigenous Sovereignty, Climate Leadership and the Future This episode explores Indigenous sovereignty, environmental stewardship, climate leadership, and collective action. Listeners interested in Heather's reflections on climate change and Indigenous youth leadership will find this an excellent companion episode. 🔗 Listen to One Heart, One Mind: Indigenous Sovereignty, Climate Leadership and the Future The Future of Indigenous Psychology, Leadership, Identity and Community with Dr. Vicky Lomay Dr. Vicky Lomay discusses Indigenous psychology, leadership development, identity, and community wellness. This episode complements Heather's discussion of Indigenous methodologies, strengths-based approaches, and pathways toward healthier communities. https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/the-

Belle Stikeleather's career path has never followed a conventional route. Beginning with studies in diplomacy and international relations, she eventually found her way into special education, behaviour analysis, executive coaching, and nonprofit leadership. What connects these seemingly diverse pursuits is a commitment to helping people thrive through learning, connection, and opportunity. In this conversation, Belle reflects on her early experiences as an educator in the Philippines, where a challenging classroom incident revealed the limits of her training and sparked a desire to better understand behaviour. That search ultimately led her to the Competent Learner Model (CLM), an experience she describes as transformational both professionally and personally. Belle discusses the influence of mentors such as Vicki Tucci and Nipa, whose commitment to compassion, coaching, and learner success shaped her approach to leadership and behavioural practice. She also explains how CLM aligns with constructional approaches inspired by Israel Goldiamond and expanded by Joe Layng and colleagues. The discussion moves beyond clinical practice into topics including executive coaching, resilience, online learning engagement, organizational leadership, employment opportunities for autistic adults, and community-based applications of behavioural science. Listeners will hear Belle's vision for building stronger, more inclusive communities through collaboration rather than coercion, and learn why she believes behaviour analysts must continue finding creative ways to extend behavioural science beyond traditional service settings. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/T35q8duWgFQ Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 LearningIBAO:  1.0 ABA TopicsQABA: 1.0 GeneralCBA/CPD: 1.0 Learning Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Contact Belle Stikeleather LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellecstike/   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bellestike/   Conductive Connections https://conductiveconnections.org/   Behavioral Teaching Solutions https://btsconsulting.info/   If you enjoyed this conversation with Belle, here are a few Behaviour Speak episodes that expand on many of the themes discussed in this episode, including the Competent Learner Model, constructional approaches, neurodiversity, and the growth of behaviour analysis in the Philippines. Episode 209: Vicci Tucci and the Competent Learner Model with Nipa Bhuptani Belle speaks extensively about the profound influence of Vicci Tucci and the Competent Learner Model (CLM) on her professional development. In this episode, Nipa Bhuptani shares the history, philosophy, and impact of CLM, offering valuable context for listeners interested in constructional approaches and generative learning repertoires. Listen: https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-209-vicci-tucci-and-the-competent-learning-model-with-nipa-bhuptani/ Episode 241: Behaviour Analysis in the Philippines with Razelle Kaye Castillo, Kristine Gomez, and Kathryn Mendoza Belle reflects on her early experiences in the Philippines and how those experiences shaped her path into education and behaviour analysis. This episode explores the profession's development in the Philippines and highlights Filipino behaviour analysts expanding behavioural services and education. Listen: https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/ep-241-behaviour-analysis-in-the-philippines-with-razelle-kaye-castillo-bcaba-kristine-gomez-ma-bcba-kathryn-mendoza-ma-ed-bcba/ Incorporating Filipino Values in Behavioural Health with Dr. Pauline Tolentino-Pablo For listeners interested in the intersection of culture, community, and behavioural practice, this conversation with Dr. Pauline Tolentino-Pablo examines how Filipino values can inform behavioural health services and strengthen culturally responsive ca

When Sylvie Nguena's daughter Meghan was diagnosed with autism at age four, she began a journey that would eventually lead her from accounting to becoming a doctoral-level behaviour analyst, researcher, author, advocate, and international trainer. In this episode, Sylvie shares how her experiences as a parent shaped her career and inspired her mission to expand autism awareness, behaviour analytic services, and caregiver support both in the United States and Cameroon.  Sylvie discusses the cultural realities surrounding autism and developmental disabilities in Cameroon, where stigma and misconceptions often prevent families from accessing support. She describes how community-centred approaches, local partnerships, and culturally adapted interventions can help bridge service gaps while honouring the values and traditions of the communities being served.  The conversation also explores Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACTr), caregiver wellbeing, culturally responsive practice, community engagement, and the work of the Lewuh Marvellous Meghan Foundation. Throughout the discussion, Sylvie highlights the importance of listening first, partnering with local communities, and building sustainable systems that empower families and professionals alike. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bBJdWWiibYA Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 EthicsIBAO:  1.0 CulturalQABA: 1.0 GeneralCBA/CPD: 1.0 Cultural Diversity Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak Dr. Sylvie Claire Nguena and The Lewuh Marvelous Meghan Foundation https://lewuhmarvelousmeghanfinc.org https://www.instagram.com/marvelous_meghan/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvie-claire-nguena-ph-d-bcba-d-lba-iba-b9b704a6/en Marvelous Meghan Book Series   Marvelous Meghan: Our Big Sister (English and French editions)https://www.amazon.com/s?k=marvelous+meghan+our+big+sisterhttps://www.amazon.com/s?k=la+merveilleuse+meghan+notre+grande+soeur Marvelous Meghan: Sometimes we Feel  (English and French editions)https://www.amazon.com/s?k=marvelous+meghan+sometimes+we+feelhttps://www.amazon.com/s?k=la+merveilleuse+meghan+parfois+on+ressent     Looking for more conversations on representation, acceptance and commitment training, and expanding behaviour analytic services globally? Check out these related Behaviour Speak episodes: 🔹 Beyond the 5.83: Advancing Black Representation in ABA with Dr. Danielle Jeudy and Dr. Jewel ParhamDr. Danielle Jeudy and Dr. Jewel Parham join the podcast to discuss representation, mentorship, leadership, and creating meaningful pathways for Black behaviour analysts  🔹 Empowering Parents and Staff with Acceptance and Commitment Training with Dr. Ashley CarriganDr. Ashley Carrigan explores how Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT) can help parents, caregivers, and professionals build psychological flexibility, resilience, and values-based action in everyday practice. 🔹 Building Autism Services in Kenya and Tanzania: Dr. Pooja Panesar on Leadership, Inclusion and Behaviour AnalysisDr. Pooja Panesar shares her experiences developing autism and behaviour analytic services in East Africa, highlighting the importance of cultural responsiveness, sustainable capacity building, community partnerships, and inclusive leadership.

In this inspiring episode of Behaviour Speak, Ben welcomes Dr. Pooja Panesar, behaviour analyst, Doctor of Behavioural Health, entrepreneur, educator, and founder of Kaizora Centre for Neurodevelopmental Therapies. Born and raised in Kenya, educated in Canada, and driven by a passion for helping children and families, Dr. Panesar shares her remarkable journey from working with a single child in a small room furnished with only a table and two chairs to building leading autism and neurodevelopmental services across Kenya and Tanzania. The conversation explores the evolution of autism services in East Africa, overcoming stigma, building professional capacity, integrating cultural humility with evidence-based practice, and creating interdisciplinary systems of care. Dr. Panesar also reflects on leadership, resilience, parenting, and her vision for the future of autism services across the continent. This episode offers powerful lessons for behaviour analysts, educators, healthcare professionals, parents, and anyone interested in creating meaningful systems change. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ycA180S1EgE Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.0 EthicsIBAO:  1.0 CulturalQABA: 1.0 GeneralCBA/CPD: 1.0 Cultural Diversity Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Links Dr. Pooja Panesar https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-pooja-panesar-31161872/ https://www.instagram.com/pooja_panesar/ Kaizora Centre for Neurodevelopmental Therapies https://www.kaizora.com/ Autism Awareness Africa https://www.facebook.com/groups/128237587206355/ Global Autism Project https://www.globalautismproject.org/ QABA Credentialing https://qababoard.com/   Cummings Graduate Institute https://cgi.edu/ Related Behaviour Speak Episodes If you enjoyed this conversation with Dr. Pooja Panesar and would like to learn more about the growth of behaviour analysis, autism services, and systems change across Africa, we encourage you to explore several related Behaviour Speak episodes. These include: From Sudan to Systems Change: Two Sisters Using Behavioural Science to Transform Community Health, featuring two sisters applying behavioural science to improve community health outcomes The Somali Behaviour Analysis Association with Ikram Buralle, Rahma Farah, Suaad Jama, and Nasteya Mahamoud Culturally Responsive Screening Tools for Autism and/or Intellectual Disabilities in Nigeria with Dr. Eziafakaku Nwokolo Behaviour Analysis in Ghana and Nigeria with Josephine Akure and Joy Oviojie Behaviour Analysis in Botswana with Maleshwane Mauco; and Behaviour Analysis in Senegal with Adair Cardon. Together, these conversations showcase the remarkable leadership, innovation, and commitment of professionals working to expand access to behavioural and developmental services across the African continent.

What happens when psychology is viewed through the lens of Indigenous knowledge, community, language, and lived experience? In this episode, Ben welcomes Dr. Vicky Lomay, a Navajo (Diné) clinical psychologist, assessment specialist, educator, and leader in Indigenous psychology. Dr. Lomay shares her journey from engineering student to psychologist and reflects on how growing up in a bilingual Navajo household shaped her understanding of healing, wellness, and human behaviour. The conversation explores the intersections between Indigenous knowledge systems and Western psychology, including cultural impacts on assessment, diagnosis, trauma treatment, and mental health care. Dr. Lomay discusses why many traditional Indigenous healing approaches represent generations of what she calls "practice-based evidence," long before Western psychology developed similar concepts and terminology. Ben and Dr. Lomay also discuss the challenges of psychological assessment in Indigenous communities, the risks of cultural misinterpretation during evaluation, and the importance of understanding language, history, ceremony, and context when working with Indigenous clients. The episode concludes with a discussion about leadership, mentorship, and the future of Indigenous psychology through organizations such as the Society of Indian Psychologists and the American Psychological Association's American Indian and Alaska Native Section. Watch the video!  https://youtu.be/3K-L9uVa6gs Connect with Dr. Vicky Lomay Tsinajini Psychology Services https://tsinajinipsych.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/vicky-t-lomay-phd-5320626/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tsinajini_psychology   Society of Indian Psychologists (SIP) https://www.nativepsychs.org/   Alaska Native/American Indian/Indigenous Women (Section 6 of the Society For The Psychology of Women) https://www.div35.org/sec6   If you enjoyed this episode, you may also enjoy these previous conversations exploring Indigenous knowledge, mentorship, cultural responsiveness, and decolonizing psychology: From Invisibility to Belonging: When Indigenous Students Finally Feel SeenFeaturing Mikala Chee, Sanoe Rapozo, and Abbey Woldthttps://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/from-invisibility-to-belonging-when-indigenous-students-finally-feel-seen-with-mikala-chee-sanoe-rapozo-and-abbey-woldt/ Mentorship as Medicine with Dr. Anna Kawenní:io Fetterhttps://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/268-mentorship-as-medicine-with-anna-kawennison-fetter-phd-edm/ The Sweetgrass Method with Dr. Mark Standing Eagle Baezhttps://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-111-the-sweetgrass-method-a-culturally-responsive-approach-among-american-indianalaska-native-peoples-with-dr-mark-standing-eagle-baez/ The Decolonization of the Mind with Dr. Michael Yellow Birdhttps://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-162-the-decolonization-of-the-mind-with-dr-michael-yellow-bird/ Explore the full Indigenous Voices collection: https://www.behaviourspeak.com/category/indigenous-voices

What can studying perspective taking tell us about relationships, dating violence, and the experiences of neurodivergent people? In this episode, Ben sits down with Ashley Rodrigues, a graduate student in Western University’s School and Applied Child Psychology program and lab manager with the Living Organisms Learning Lab. Ashley describes how her early experiences seeking mental-health support helped shape her interest in psychology, school-based services, and research with neurodivergent people.  The conversation centres on Ashley’s research examining perspective taking and dating-violence-related outcomes among post-secondary students with ADHD, autism, and neurotypical participants. She explains emotional perspective taking through a Relational Frame Theory lens and describes how the study moves beyond self-report by using a behavioural perspective-taking task.  Ashley also walks Ben through the evolving findings from the project and some important cautions around interpreting differences between groups. They discuss social communication, working memory, social desirability, masking, literal interpretation of questions, heterogeneity within autism, and the possibility that measurement itself can influence apparent differences.  The conversation becomes personal as Ashley discusses being diagnosed with both ADHD and autism at age 22 following earlier explanations centred on anxiety and related concerns. She and Ben explore what lived experience can bring to clinical relationships and research, particularly when people's experiences do not fit conventional expectations of how neurodivergence presents.  Finally, Ashley shares what happened when she presented this work very early in her graduate career at an Ontario behaviour analysis conference. What began with uncertainty about whether she belonged turned into productive interdisciplinary conversations and a poster award.  Contact Ashley https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyvrod/ Links Living Organisms Lab https://www.livingorganismslearninglab.ca/ For another perspective on autism, relationships, and interpersonal violence, listen to my conversation with Amy Pearson about autistic lived experience, masking, relationships, and her research into intimate partner violence and abuse.  🎧 The Hidden Cost of Masking: Autism, Identity and Authenticity with Dr. Amy Pearson

Dr. Don Togade came to behaviour analysis through a deeply personal journey, one that began with trying to better understand himself. Don and Ben explore how that journey now shapes the way he teaches future behaviour analysts, from mindfulness, gratitude, and self-monitoring to cultural humility, feedback, and interdisciplinary collaboration. They also discuss AI, professional regulation, Mindful Seeds, and what Don sees as perhaps the most meaningful outcome of his career: becoming a kinder person.   Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mIe-KuWHadQ Continuing Education Credits (https://www.cbiconsultants.com/shop) BACB: 1.5 LearningIBAO:  1.5 ABA TopicsQABA: 1.5 GeneralCBA/CPD: 1.5 Learning Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Links Mindful Seeds   George Brown Polytechnic School of Behavioural Science Don's LinkedIn Profile Related Behaviour Speak Episodes If you’d like to continue exploring themes from this conversation: Interteaching with Dr. Rocío Rosales: A deep dive into interteaching and the behavioural design of college instruction.  Humility, Compassion, and Reflection with Dr. Nasiah Cirincione-Ulezi and Dr. Jonathan Tarbox: Extends Don’s discussion of self-reflection, humility, compassion, and kindness in behaviour analysis.  Behaviour Analysis in the Philippines with Razelle Kaye Castillo, Kristine Gomez & Kathryn Mendoza: Explores behaviour analysis in the Philippines, including culture, ethics, accessibility, and professional community-building.

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Ben Reiman sits down with Indigenous educator, consultant, speaker, and entrepreneur Len Pierre. Grounding the discussion in his Coast Salish identity and his roots in Katzie First Nation, Len shares his journey of cultural reclamation, receiving his ancestral name, and learning to navigate both Indigenous and colonial worlds. Len explores the history and teachings of Katzie territory, the importance of language revitalization, and the role of community in identity, healing, and belonging. He discusses how Indigenous worldviews challenge Western assumptions about individualism, perfectionism, privilege, trauma, and leadership.  The conversation also examines reconciliation in contemporary Canada, the distinction between reconciliation and conventional DEI initiatives, and why meaningful change must move at the speed of trust rather than the speed of institutions. Len shares lessons from building Len Pierre Consulting, supporting organizations on their reconciliation journeys, and helping people understand that Indigenous peoples are not defined by trauma but by generations of strength, resilience, and wisdom. Whether you work in education, healthcare, social services, leadership, or want to deepen your understanding of Indigenous perspectives, this episode offers a thought-provoking and hopeful exploration of how relationships, culture, and community can help us all navigate today's challenges. Learn More About Len Pierrehttps://lenpierreconsulting.com   Follow Len Pierre https://www.linkedin.com/in/len-pierre/ https://www.instagram.com/lenjpierre/https://www.youtube.com/@lenpierreconsulting https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575539922006   Nut'semot (One Heart, One Mind) - LPC Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/58QRdHYguAqUS6wl7oiljk?si=ef9400843e5347da     If this conversation with Len Pierre resonated with you, we encourage you to explore more Indigenous voices featured on Behaviour Speak. These episodes offer diverse perspectives on reconciliation, Indigenous rights, leadership, disability, community wellness, allyship, and social justice. Together, they provide a deeper understanding of the lived experiences, strengths, knowledge systems, and leadership of Indigenous peoples across Canada.  Featured Episodes Dr. Tibetha KembleWhat Are You Willing to Lose? Settler Colonialism and ReconciliationA thought-provoking conversation examining settler colonialism, power, privilege, and the uncomfortable realities of reconciliation. Dr. Kemble challenges listeners to consider what meaningful reconciliation requires of individuals, organizations, and systems, and why transformational change often demands more than symbolic gestures. 🔗 https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/what-are-you-willing-to-lose-settler-colonialism-and-reconciliation-with-dr-tibetha-kemble/ Katisha PaulKatisha Paul brings powerful perspectives on Indigenous advocacy, leadership, representation, and community empowerment. This conversation explores the importance of Indigenous leadership in decision-making spaces and highlights pathways toward creating systems that better serve Indigenous communities while honouring Indigenous ways of knowing and being. 🔗 https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/one-heart-one-mind-indigenous-sovereignty-climate-leadership-and-the-future/ Raven LacerteEnding Gender-Based Violence One Conversation at a TimeFounder of the Moose Hide Campaign, Raven Lacerte discusses the movement to end gender-based violence and the collective responsibility we all share in creating safer communities. This episode explores allyship, accountability, healing, and how difficult conversations can become catalysts for meaningful change. 🔗 https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/raven-lacerte-ending-gender-based-violence-one-conversation-at-a-time/ Grant BrunoThe Realities of Autism in First Nations Communities in CanadaGrant Bruno shares important insights into the intersection of autism, disabili

What happens when community, culture, behavioural science, and public health intersect? In this inspiring conversation, Ben Reiman sits down with sisters Ruaa Hassaballa and Ithar Hassaballa, two behavioural scientists whose journey began in Sudan and evolved into careers dedicated to health equity, systems change, community engagement, and global health. The sisters share how their upbringing in Sudan, immigration to the United States, and the influence of parents rooted in teaching, anthropology, and service shaped their understanding of humanity, resilience, and collective care. They discuss the values that continue to guide their work, including curiosity, integrity, community, and cultural humility. The conversation explores how behavioural science extends far beyond individual behaviour change and can be applied to entire communities and systems. Through stories from diabetes prevention, Ebola response efforts, COVID-19 equity initiatives, global health leadership, and maternal health work, Ruaa and Ithar illustrate why trust, relationships, and lived experience are essential ingredients for meaningful change. Listeners will also discover how community members serve as experts in their own lives, why cultural humility may be more powerful than cultural competence, and what it takes to create conditions where individuals and communities can truly thrive. This episode is a masterclass in systems thinking, health equity, behavioural science, and the power of listening. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0Gc0T_tU6Pw Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Links Ithar Hassaballa https://www.linkedin.com/in/ithar-hassaballa/ https://communityhealth.ku.edu/people/ithar-hassaballa-mph-phd-who-fellow https://common-ground-advisors.com/ Ruaa Hassaballa https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruaa-hassaballa/ KU Center for Community Health and Development https://communityhealth.ku.edu/ Dr. Stephen Fawcett https://communityhealth.ku.edu/people/stephen-b-fawcett-phd Hzssaballa Omar Hassabala https://www.interurbanarthouse.org/tangled-roots-exhibition-2020 https://youtu.be/O4mVCfPfVDQ?si=U4t_jdwxH-QrY53y   Research Discussed Phori PM, Fawcett S, Nidjergou NN, Silouakadila C, Hassaballa R, Siku DK. Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation of the COVID-19 Response in the Africa Region. Health Promotion Practice. 2023;24(3):432-443. doi:10.1177/15248399221095524   Munodawafa, D., Moeti, M.R., Phori, P.M. et al. Monitoring and Evaluating the Ebola Response Effort in Two Liberian Communities. J Community Health 43, 321–327 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10900-017-0425-5 Fawcett S, Holt C, Solar-Hormazabal O, et al. Equity Lens Protocol: Reflecting on Harms From the COVID-19 Response and Mitigation Strategies Implemented in a Local Public Health System. Health Promotion Practice. 2024;25(4):526-530. doi:10.1177/15248399231173702   Watson-Thompson, J., Hassaballa, R.H., Valentini, S.H. et al. Actively Addressing Systemic Racism Using a Behavioral Community Approach. Behav. Soc. Iss. 31, 297–326 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42822-022-00101-6

In this conversation, Dr. Amy Pearson shares her personal and professional journey in autism research, discussing her experiences as a late-diagnosed autistic individual and the impact of her lived experience on her research. She explores the challenges of navigating the academic landscape as an autistic researcher, the importance of neurodiversity affirming practices, and the need for a shift from deficit-based models to a more inclusive understanding of autism. The discussion highlights the ethical considerations in autism research and the significance of aligning research with the values of the autistic community. This conversation delves into the perceptions of autistic individuals, particularly focusing on the experiences of non-speaking individuals and the biases that exist within neurotypical perspectives. It explores the complexities of family dynamics, the importance of support for individuals with high needs, and the reflections on ABA tutoring experiences. The discussion also addresses the concept of masking in autism, its implications, and the challenges of navigating social expectations while striving for authenticity. In this conversation, Amy Pearson and Ben Reiman explore the evolving understanding of authenticity, the significance of stimming in autistic identity, and the complexities of relationships within the autistic community. They discuss misconceptions surrounding autistic intimacy, the portrayal of neurodivergent relationships in media, and the critical issue of intimate partner violence faced by autistic individuals. The conversation emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of autistic experiences and the importance of fostering acceptance and support in relationships. In this conversation, Amy Pearson discusses the complexities of autistic experiences, particularly in relation to interpersonal violence, emotional well-being, and the importance of support systems in research. She highlights the need for awareness of red flags in relationships, the intersection of autism with menopause, and the influence of key figures in autism research. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding and validating autistic experiences while advocating for systemic changes to improve the lives of autistic individuals Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/h9UUG0zr1f4 Follow us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviourspeak/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/behaviourspeak TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorspeak   Links Amy Pearson  https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-pearson-359b83303/ https://www.durham.ac.uk/staff/amy-pearson/ Links and Resources Authoring Autism by M. Remi Yergeau  https://www.dukeupress.edu/authoring-autism Dr. Pearson's Amazing Colleagues Mentioned Kieron Rose https://theautisticadvocate.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieran-rose-38574b55/ Felicity Sedgewick https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicity-sedgewick-32a55015b/ Sarah Douglas https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-douglas-9a57951b6/ Nicole Renehan https://www.durham.ac.uk/staff/nicole-renehan/ Sarah Cassidy https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/psychology/people/sarah.cassidy Damien Milton https://www.kent.ac.uk/school-of-psychology/tizard/people/1419/milton-damian Sarah King https://www.saraking.online/research Krysia Waldock https://www.linkedin.com/in/krysia-waldock/ Liz Pellicano https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/47716-elizabeth-pellicano Research Discussed Pearson A, Rose K, Mitchell A, et al. “It’s Not a Physical Prison but You Can’t Get Out.” How Autistic Adults Make Sense of the Experience of Intimate Violence and Abuse. Autism in Adulthood. 2026;8(3):360-372. doi:10.1089/aut.2024.0145