We were lucky to catch up with Megan DeLeon (Miller) recently and have shared our conversation below.

Megan, appreciate you joining us today. Was there a moment in your career that meaningfully altered your trajectory? If so, we’d love to hear the backstory.

In the tapestry of a career, there’s often a single thread that alters its course. For me, that moment arrived during my early days in behavior analysis, working with young autistic children in their homes. Struggling with limited guidance, I discovered that genuine connection held more power than any prescribed methods.

I remember a specific day when I donned a mismatched ensemble, as chosen by a spirited three-year-old. In those moments of princesses and laughter, I realized that the essence of my role was not solely confined to therapy manuals or methodologies. It was about embodying the spirit of unwavering support, of becoming an ally in their journey through life’s labyrinth. The transformative force of authenticity was undeniable – to step into their world, to comprehend their aspirations and apprehensions, and to demonstrate that I was unconditionally invested in their growth.

The radiant glow in the eyes of that child, mirrored by her amused and touched mother, painted a canvas of affirmation. It was a testament to the unspoken understanding that had blossomed between us. In my youthful twenties, I had unearthed a timeless truth: the impact of genuine connection transcends age, experience, and titles.

As you traverse your own path, remember that it is not always the grandiose gestures that shape destinies. It is often the simplest, most genuine acts – a shared smile, a moment of vulnerability, a willingness to immerse yourself in someone else’s world – that forge the deepest connections and leave an indelible mark on both your journey and theirs.

Megan, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a distinguished behavior analyst, author, and speaker, fueled by an unwavering commitment to advancing behavior analysis. Rooted in a Ph.D. in Special Education and Behavior Analysis from The Ohio State University, I’ve evolved from an adjunct professor into a respected authority in my field, leaving an indelible mark on its trajectory.

My impact reverberates beyond academia. I’ve pioneered the transformative Do Better Movement and founded the Do Better Collective, driven by a mission to amplify the expertise of behavior analysts and related service providers. This endeavor aligns with my profound belief that the chasm between practice and research can be bridged, with insights from practitioners deserving equal respect as those from researchers and professors.

Within this realm, my purpose expands to reach parents, educators, behavior analysts, and beyond. My focus is to nurture authentic connections, guided by the core principle that genuine rapport holds the key to transformation. Through my efforts, I illuminate pathways toward understanding and authentic engagement, enabling clients to embrace their true selves and thrive. My journey is dedicated to reshaping behavior analysis, where neurodiversity is celebrated, connections are cherished, and lives are profoundly transformed.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

In my journey, there’s a lesson I had to unlearn, and the origin of this transformation traces back to my foundation in debate and early behavior analytic training. I was ingrained with the notion that our science should be defended vehemently against criticisms and misconceptions, promoting its merits and the essence of our service delivery. However, the crux of my transformation emerged during interactions with neurodiversity self advocates on social media.

In my fervor to champion our science, I found myself repeatedly attempting to justify and protect our methods. Regrettably, I often missed a vital aspect – the insights and wisdom these advocates were attempting to share. It was a humbling moment when I recognized that, in my pursuit to educate, I had neglected to truly listen.

The pivotal turning point arrived in 2020, when I was afforded the opportunity of a live video conversation with a group of neurodiversity self-advocates. Through this dialogue, I glimpsed the profound impact that some of our practices were having, despite being grounded in the belief that they were in the best interest of our clients. This encounter reframed my perspective, urging me to step into my clients’ shoes and see the world through their eyes.

This experience sparked a seismic shift within me. I embraced the imperative of unhooking from my established learning history, allowing me to become a vessel of receptivity and empathy. As I absorbed the lessons from these advocates, my approach to delivering services evolved, and my focus widened to encompass the spectrum of perspectives.

This journey of unlearning has enriched my practice, reminding me that true growth requires the humility to pause, to listen, and to honor the wisdom that resides in those we aim to serve. Through this transformation, I’ve discovered the unparalleled power of open-mindedness and the incredible lessons that can be gleaned when we unshackle ourselves from our preconceived notions.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

In my professional journey, one pivotal factor that has contributed significantly to my reputation within the market is my unwavering focus on fostering genuine connections. Over the span of two decades, I’ve cultivated the art of building deep and authentic relationships with my clients, all while learning the vital lesson of setting healthy boundaries to safeguard the integrity of these connections.

In every interaction, I approach with a clear purpose, guided by three key principles: Firstly, I prioritize establishing a meaningful link with at least one area of interest or need that resonates with the individuals I engage with. Secondly, I’m dedicated to uncovering resources that directly address these specific interests or needs, enriching their journey in meaningful ways. Lastly, I’m committed to identifying individuals within my network who can contribute positively to their growth in alignment with their unique pursuits.

This approach has earned me the affectionate title of “resource queen,” a reflection of my innate passion for facilitating access to valuable knowledge. What propels me is not personal recognition, but a sincere desire to witness the success of those around me. My repository of insights is brimming with a wealth of resources, and I’ve developed the ability to seamlessly synthesize and share this information, ultimately enriching the journeys of fellow professionals in the field.

My reputation is built on an authentic dedication to support and an aptitude for connecting the dots. It’s not about me; it’s about empowering others to achieve their fullest potential with genuine care. This commitment to nurturing connections and empowering individuals has become a cornerstone of my reputation, and it’s a legacy that continues to thrive and expand with each meaningful interaction.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://collective.dobettermovement.us/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_dobetter/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dobettercollective
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megandeleon/
• Youtube: youtube.com/dobetter