
The Heart & Science of Leadership
Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni
The Heart & Science of Leadership" podcast, co-hosted by Dr. Paulie and A.J. Rinaldi, combines their diverse backgrounds in leadership to offer a comprehensive view on what it takes to lead effectively, no matter your position—be it executive, teacher, manager, principal, supervisor, or coach. Together, they explore the balance between the human side of leadership and evidence-based practices, providing listeners with practical tools, real-life stories, and actionable strategies. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, this podcast delivers valuable insights that blend heart and science for impactful leadership in any setting.
All episodes
Best episodes
Seasons
Top 10 The Heart & Science of Leadership Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Heart & Science of Leadership episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Heart & Science of Leadership for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The Heart & Science of Leadership episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

You can't find leadership in a book: Reflections of a leader with Leigh Martin
The Heart & Science of Leadership
12/13/22 • 76 min
Some people talk the leadership talk. But when you lift the hood, there is misalignment with their say-do as they aren't walking the walk. In this episode, I interview my best friend of almost 50 years, Leigh Martin. Leigh and I lived, traveled, struggled, partied, and even fought together (stories for another episode!).
An authentic leader and individual with high values, Leigh walks the talk. He understands that leadership is not about title or degree. A master of storytelling to illustrate important points, Leigh provides several lessons that can help any leader, anywhere.
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
The Behavioral Toolbox equips those charged with supporting behavior change in schools with practical applications of the science of human behavior for making a positive difference in the workplace. In this case, the classroom and school!
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

Harnessing Passion and Integrity for Leadership and Growth with Troy Burg
The Heart & Science of Leadership
11/02/24 • 46 min
Ever wondered how a background in nutrition can lead to a flourishing career in Applied Behavior Analysis and Organizational Behavior Management? Behavior analyst Troy Burg shares his unique journey from direct support work to ABA expertise in this enlightening episode. Troy reveals how his early experiences fueled a passion for behavior analysis, merging interests in helping others and business. We discuss the emerging potential for ABA to become a mainstream career path, much like medicine or law, and how these principles extend beyond traditional business settings, influencing education and more.
Troy shares insights on integrity and shared values, emphasizing passion-driven work as a catalyst for meaningful change. Tune in to hear Troy's compelling story and discover how you can integrate these principles into your own life and work.
Troy has a Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis. Over the past couple of years, he has combined his education in the science of ABA with his marketing skills to create his online network. He specializes in disseminating information related to both ABA and OBM. Specifically, he enjoys showing people how behavioral science plays into marketing. He also likes designing experimental social media designs to demonstrate how behavioral science benefits the average marketer.
Troy enjoys golfing and watching sports with his friends in his free time. His favorite sports include football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and golf.
You can learn more about Troy at the following links:
Website: https://www.troyburg.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@behavioralstories
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behavioralstories/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troy-burg-2999831ba/
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
The Behavioral Toolbox equips those charged with supporting behavior change in schools with practical applications of the science of human behavior for making a positive difference in the workplace. In this case, the classroom and school!
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

Bridging the Gap: Enhancing RBT Training and Supervision through OBM and Mentorship with Stephanie Waldon
The Heart & Science of Leadership
06/20/24 • 61 min
In this episode I dig into the importance of improving training standards for Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) with special guest Stephanie Waldon, a recent master's graduate in Applied Behavior Analysis from FIT. Stephanie shares her firsthand experiences and passion for ABA, highlighting the critical need for better training, effective supervision, and meaningful mentorship. Through her journey from a novice RBT to a training manager, Stephanie recounts her initial low expectations shaped by various companies and the transformative impact of high-quality training, and the guidance of her mentor.
In this episode, we highlight the stark realities faced by RBTs because of the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application of ABA that occurs oftentimes due to inadequate supervision and support and how incorporating Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) and robust simulations in coursework can bridge these gaps. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of supervision training in graduate programs and advocates for data-driven feedback loops to ensure RBTs are well-prepared and valued in their roles.
Join Stephanie and me in exploring the power of positive reinforcement and the importance of emotional (behavioral) support in the workplace. Learn how small gestures and a supportive organizational structure can significantly improve team morale and reduce employee turnover. We also discuss practical strategies for fostering a nurturing work environment, promoting professional development, and the vital role of leadership in creating a culture of trust and mutual respect. This episode is packed with insights and practical advice for anyone passionate about enhancing the field of ABA.
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
The Behavioral Toolbox equips those charged with supporting behavior change in schools with practical applications of the science of human behavior for making a positive difference in the workplace. In this case, the classroom and school!
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

Redefining Leadership: What It Truly Means and Why It Matters
The Heart & Science of Leadership
02/05/25 • 52 min
Unlock the secrets to impactful leadership with insights from Dr. Paul "Paulie" Gavoni and AJ Rinaldi. Discover how real leadership transcends titles and transforms cultures by focusing on influence and authenticity. Dr. Paulie reveals his journey from social work to leadership, driven by a passion for improving leadership practices. Meanwhile, AJ shares his wealth of experience in youth work and education, inspired by the wisdom of John Maxwell. Together, they offer a fresh perspective on the nuanced dance between leadership and management, urging us to look beyond mere positions to the heart of influence.
This episode promises to equip you with practical tools and real-world examples to enhance your leadership skills, no matter your formal position. Embark on a journey with us to redefine leadership as a set of behaviors that can transform not only organizations but also lives.
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
The Behavioral Toolbox equips those charged with supporting behavior change in schools with practical applications of the science of human behavior for making a positive difference in the workplace. In this case, the classroom and school!
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

7 Tips for Delivering Tough Feedback
The Heart & Science of Leadership
11/12/22 • 9 min
Poor performance happens. Sometimes it might be related to skill, and other times, will. Even in the greatest organization, people are bound to make mistakes. When this happens, feedback must be provided to get performance back on track. Unfortunately, people tend to avoid providing this type of feedback as it is often aversive to them and the recipient. But it doesn't have to be. In this episode, I offer you 7 tips for delivering feedback that helps performance, not hurts.
By the way, if you like this episode, consider picking up a copy of The 5 Scientific Laws of Life & Leadership: Behavioral Karma. It's available in hardback, paperback, Kindle, and Audible!
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

Want to Improve your Relationship? Try these 3 Tips Grounded in Practical Behavior Science
The Heart & Science of Leadership
10/29/22 • 11 min
Want to develop, sustain, or repair any relationship? Some people seem to be engaged in happy relationships, the reciprocal nature of which might be described as magical as each person fulfills their significant other’s needs while simultaneously meeting their own. Many people make earnest attempts at developing and maintaining these types of relationships. And fail. Unfortunately, this can result in severe and debilitating pain that can derail even the best of us. But there’s good news. Successful relationships aren’t the result of magic. They are the result of behavior. Period, end of story. As behavior scientists, we understand that no successful relationship can be achieved without behavior. It’s not luck, not genetics, not money, and not personality. It’s simply...behavior! And not just any behavior, but the right behavior. And you can engage in these behaviors while helping your significant other or those you value to do the same.
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

The Shame of American Education and the Approach for Accelerating Student Achievement from 2 to 8 times Faster
The Heart & Science of Leadership
08/13/22 • 20 min
Did you know there is an instructional approach that can accelerate student learning from 2 to 8 times faster than current instructional approaches? Check out this episode to learn more about the largest research that was ever conducted in education to find out what this approach is, and why it's not being used everywhere.
Below are some links related to the content discussed in this episode.
The Shame of American Education
Project Follow Through
Morningside Academy
CABAS
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

The Tone of your Texts & Emails - Is it Hurting or Helping? What You NEED to Know
The Heart & Science of Leadership
08/06/22 • 9 min
Communication is very complex. Even the slightest change in tone, volume, or cadence can alter the communicative intent as experienced by the listener. In this episode I discuss what you should be aware of, and what you can do instead.
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

Overcoming Internal Obstacles like Fear & Anxiety
The Heart & Science of Leadership
07/29/22 • 8 min
Struggling with internal obstacles like fear and anxiety? Well, you aren't alone. Unfortunately, most of us have not been properly equipped with the tools for overcoming these obstacles. This leads us to engage in behaviors that actually make things worse. Check out this episode for practical tips rooted in behavior science for overcoming obstacles, living a more valued life, and achieving value driven goals.
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

Assent and Compliance - When to Use Which with Steve Ward
The Heart & Science of Leadership
01/22/23 • 51 min
The concept of assent has garnered a lot of attention in recent years. And rightfully so. Engaging learners in their treatment is extremely important. Like you, they don't want things done "to" them but done "with" them. Behavior Analysts recognize they have assent when a learner verbally or non-verbally agrees to participate in treatment.
But is assent ALWAYS needed? Are there conditions where compliance is necessary? In this episode, veteran behavior analyst, Steve Ward, takes a deep and sometimes humorous dive into the concepts of assent and compliance.
If you are interested in Steve's work, be sure to pick up a copy of one of his books on Amazon. Here is a link to one that will get you going!
Also, if you are interested in Steve's services, click here for more information.
Pick up a copy of the #1 bestseller: Adaptive Intelligence: The Evolution of Emotional Intelligence Through the Proven Power of Behavior Science
The Behavioral Toolbox equips those charged with supporting behavior change in schools with practical applications of the science of human behavior for making a positive difference in the workplace. In this case, the classroom and school!
Be sure to subscribe to Dr. Paulie's Heart & Science YouTube channel for a variety of content related to behavior science and bringing out the best in yourself and others.
Show more best episodes

Show more best episodes
FAQ
How many episodes does The Heart & Science of Leadership have?
The Heart & Science of Leadership currently has 40 episodes available.
What topics does The Heart & Science of Leadership cover?
The podcast is about Applied Behavior Analysis, Management, Podcasts, Aba, Self-Improvement, Education, Business and Drugs.
What is the most popular episode on The Heart & Science of Leadership?
The episode title 'Exploring the Dynamics of Addressing Behavior Challenges in Schools with Dr. Merrill Winston' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The Heart & Science of Leadership?
The average episode length on The Heart & Science of Leadership is 54 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Heart & Science of Leadership released?
Episodes of The Heart & Science of Leadership are typically released every 13 days, 23 hours.
When was the first episode of The Heart & Science of Leadership?
The first episode of The Heart & Science of Leadership was released on Jul 16, 2022.
Show more FAQ

Show more FAQ