Behaviour Speak with Ben Reiman

What does it mean to conceal your social class, and why do people do it?

In this clip from our conversation with Dr. Mun Yuk Chin, we explore how social class shapes identity, belonging, and everyday behaviour. Dr. Chin discusses social class concealment, classism, authenticity, and the subtle ways people adjust how they speak, dress, socialize, and present themselves in order to navigate environments where class differences matter.

The conversation examines how social class intersects with race, culture, education, and opportunity, while also exploring the psychological impact of feeling pressure to hide parts of ourselves. Along the way, Ben reflects on his own experiences with class mobility, belonging, and the search for authenticity.

Whether you work in human services, education, supervision, psychology, or simply want to better understand how class shapes our lives, this discussion offers valuable insights and practical reflection points.

 

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/K7FEK258q8w

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Contact Mun

University of Nevada - Lincoln

https://cehs.unl.edu/edpsych/person/mun-yuk-chin/
 
Dr. Chin's Lab
https://clear.unl.edu/
 
Links and Resources
 
Klaus Cavalhieri
https://www.albany.edu/education/faculty/klaus-cavalhieri
Mindi Thompson
https://counselingpsych.education.wisc.edu/fac-staff/thompson-mindi/
 

Related Behaviour Speak Episodes
Code Switching with Dr. Myles Durkee (Episode 227)
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-227-code-switching-with-dr-myles-durkee/

Explore how people adapt their language, behaviour, and presentation across different social contexts, and how code-switching intersects with identity, belonging, and social navigation.

Colorism in Context with Dr. Danielle Jeudy (Episode 224)
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-224-colorism-in-context-with-dr-danielle-jeudy/

A discussion of colorism, social identity, privilege, discrimination, and the ways appearance-based biases influence lived experiences and opportunities.

Many helping professions have made cultural humility and multicultural education core elements of professional training. Behaviour analysis is still working toward that goal.

In this conversation, Ben speaks with Meghan Deshais about her efforts to help move the field forward through education, curriculum development, and the creation of an open-access Culture & Diversity Toolkit for ABA Instructors. Meghan describes how her interests in social justice, feminism, and behaviour science gradually converged, leading her to explore how radical behaviourism and intersectional feminism share common contextual and pragmatic foundations.

Listeners will learn how a faculty-led initiative at Caldwell University evolved into a comprehensive resource that helps educators incorporate culture and diversity content throughout ABA coursework. Meghan explains the toolkit's foundation in the cultural competence standards established by Lyz Hughes-Fong and colleagues and discusses the addition of a new eighth standard focused on understanding behavioural mechanisms that contribute to social inequities.

The discussion also explores practical teaching strategies, including creating psychologically safe classroom environments, encouraging respectful discourse, and helping students engage with difficult topics without becoming defensive or overwhelmed. Meghan offers thoughtful perspectives on navigating politically charged language, emphasizing behavioural definitions and observable realities rather than ideological labels.

This episode is an important listen for behaviour analysts, educators, supervisors, graduate students, and anyone interested in culturally responsive and ethically informed behavioural practice.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aEvbC_fIWYM

Continuing Education Credits (Click here to purchase!)

BACB: 1.0 Ethics
IBAO:  1.0 Cultural
QABA: 1.0 General
CBA/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

 

Contact Meghan Deshais

LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-deshais-644998151/
 
Rutgers 
https://gsapp.rutgers.edu/meghan-deshais
 
Research Referenced
Catagnus, R.M., Gharapetian, L., Najdowski, A. et al. Breaking Barriers with Humor and Heart: Dr. Elizabeth Hughes Fong’s Contributions to the Culturally Sensitive Practice of Applied Behavior Analysis. Behav Analysis Practice 18, 1290–1299 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-025-01083-8
 
Fong, E. H., & Tanaka, S. (2013). Multicultural alliance of behavior analysis standards for cultural competence in behavior analysis.International Journal of Behavioral Consultation and Therapy, 8(2), 17–19. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0100970
 
Fong, E. H., Catagnus, R. M., Brodhead, M. T., Quigley, S., & Field, S. (2016). Developing the Cultural Awareness Skills of Behavior Analysts. Behavior analysis in practice, 9(1), 84–94. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-016-0111-6
 
Jimenez-Gomez, C., Beaulieu, L., Vance, H. et al. Fostering Culturally Responsive Practice in Behaviour Analysts Through Online Training and Supervision. Behav Analysis Practice (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-026-01218-5
 

If you enjoyed this conversation, you may also be interested in these related Behaviour Speak episodes exploring cultural competence, cultural humility, and culturally responsive practice in behaviour analysis:

Episode 53: Cultural Competence in Behaviour Analysis: How Far Have We Come? with Dr. Elizabeth Hughes Fong
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-53-cultural-competence-in-behaviour-analysis-how-far-have-we-come-with-dr-elizabeth-hughes-fong/

Episode 214: Cultural Humility in Behavior Analysis with Quintara Tucker
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-214-cultural-humility-in-behavior-analysis-with-quintara-tucker/

Episode 202: The Culturally Responsive Behavior Analyst with Dr. Ruby Mannankara Cabrera
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-202-the-culturally-responsive-behavior-analyst-with-dr-ruby-mannankara-cabrera/

Episode 102: Enhancing Cultural Responsiveness in Behavioral Service Delivery for Latino Families (Part 1)
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-102-enhancing-cultural-responsiveness-in-behavioral-service-delivery-for-latino-families-part-1/

Episode 22: Cultural Competence with Jessica Bethel, MEd, BCBA
https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-22-cultural-competence-with-jessica-bethel-med-bcba/

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 Whitinui
https://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 Children
https://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-future-of-indigenous-psychology-leadership-identity-and-community-with-dr-vicky-lomay/

Listen to More Behaviour Speak Episodes

Explore the complete Behaviour Speak archive for additional conversations on Indigenous wellness

🔗https://www.behaviourspeak.com/category/indigenous-voices

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 Learning
IBAO:  1.0 ABA Topics
QABA: 1.0 General
CBA/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 care.

Listen: https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/incorporating-filipino-values-in-behavioral-health-with-dr-pauline-tolentino-pablo-dbh-bcba/

Episode 122: Neurodiversity in the Workplace: A South Asian Perspective with Jagmeet Sangha
Belle discusses creating meaningful employment opportunities and building inclusive communities for neurodivergent individuals. This episode with Jagmeet Sangha explores neurodiversity in employment settings and offers a complementary perspective on workplace inclusion and strengths-based approaches.

Listen: https://www.behaviourspeak.com/e/episode-122-neurodiversity-in-the-workplace-a-south-asian-perspective-with-jagmeet-sangha-ma-bcba/

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 Ethics
IBAO:  1.0 Cultural
QABA: 1.0 General
CBA/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+sister
https://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+feel
https://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 Parham
Dr. 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 Carrigan
Dr. 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 Analysis
Dr. 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.