At Safe Space, we believe in the power of compassion and its ability to transform lives. We are a team of passionate professionals dedicated to our mission of increasing the quality of life for individuals with autism and related disorders. We understand the challenges faced by those with autism and their families, and we are here to provide support, guidance, and resources to help navigate those challenges. Our approach is grounded in research-backed techniques, and we are committed to sharing our knowledge and insights with the wider community. We believe in creating a safe and inclusive space for all individuals to learn, grow, and thrive. Join us on this mission to explore the infinite possibilities of creating a brighter and more compassionate future for all individuals in the world of ABA.
From Receipts to Results: Advocating for Your Child’s Education
In this episode of Safe Space: The ABA Podcast, host Michelle Zeman sits down with special guest Alicia Renee, founder of The IEP Files and self-proclaimed “IEP Queen.” Alicia shares her journey as a COPAA-trained advocate, autism mom, and passionate leader in special education advocacy. Together, they dive deep into strategies for parents to navigate IEP meetings, ask the right questions, document effectively (“collecting receipts”), and shift from overwhelm to empowerment.
Listeners will walk away with practical tools, a better understanding of timelines and legal protections, and the encouragement to never enter an IEP meeting alone or unprepared.
Be sure to listen for the two code words to earn 1.5 General CEUs for listening to this episode! Reminder: submit this via the google form on our Instagram @safespaceaba!
11 Sept 2025
The Dosage Dilemma: Balancing Research, Reality, and Ethics
In this episode of Safe Space, the ABA Podcast, Michelle Zeman welcomes back the dynamic duo behind The Psychobabble BCBAs - Lauryn and Erica - for a thought-provoking conversation on one of the most debated topics in our field: dosage and medical necessity in ABA. Together, they unpack the history of the “40-hour standard,” explore what the research really says about intensity and outcomes, and challenge the field to reconsider blanket recommendations in favor of individualized, socially significant treatment planning.
From unlearning outdated practices to tackling real-world barriers like family stress, naps, and system pressures, this discussion is equal parts eye-opening and practical. Whether you’re a new BCBA or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll walk away with fresh insights on how to ethically navigate dosage decisions that honor both clinical evidence and family values.
Listeners can earn 1.5 Ethics CEUs by listening to the full episode and completing our Google Form with the two code words shared.
28 Aug 2025
Spectrum of Independence: Redefining What It Means to Grow Independent
What does independence really mean for neurodiverse learners, and how can families set them up for long-term success? Host Michelle Zeman welcomes Christine Drew and Kristin Lombardi to discuss their book Spectrum of Independence, which offers families a structured yet flexible framework for building independence. They explore how small, consistent steps - like breaking down daily routines into teachable parts - can lead to big changes over time, while also addressing the challenges of burnout, resistance, and fading parental support. Listeners will gain insight into why services often fall off after age 21, why early preparation matters, and how parents can move from doing for their child to empowering them with the tools to do for themselves. The authors also highlight how teaching independence protects boundaries, supports consent, and reduces vulnerability to abuse. They also examine the risks of overprotection, the importance of teaching boundaries and consent, and the need to prepare families for the “services cliff” when supports drop off after age 21. This detailed discussion blends professional expertise with relatable family stories, making it a valuable resource for caregivers, educators, and practitioners alike. Be sure to listen out for the code words to earn 1.0 general CEU!
Who has been a guest on Safe Space - The ABA Podcast
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Nick Gopaul
Nicole Stewart
Nichole Mark
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.9 / 5
12 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
10 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 40 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
52
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
71
Contact Safe Space - The ABA Podcast
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about Safe Space - The ABA Podcast
Who hosts Safe Space - The ABA Podcast?
Michelle Zeman host the show. Published by To the Moon PLLC.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes weekly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Safe Space - The ABA Podcast take guests?
Yes. Guests have been identified in episode analyses.
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