Passing the BCBA exam is a significant challenge, often likened to climbing a mountain without a clear path. For Liat, the founder of Study Notes ABA, this journey was especially personal. Her struggles motivated her to create resources to help others succeed in their exam preparations, all while making the process enjoyable.
A Crazy Moment of Recognition
Liat recalls a breakthrough moment early in her journey when she realized she was truly on the right track. “It was like a literal moment,” she shared. “Like, oh my god, I’m doing something right.” From there, Study Notes ABA began to take shape, starting simply with curriculum taught on a whiteboard in her dark apartment, and eventually evolving into professionally recorded videos where students could watch and take notes live.
What started as a personal quest to “pass the effing test” quickly grew into a full-fledged platform, complete with mock exams tailored for millennials, study packs with pens and highlighters, and even a podcast that blends behavioral science with fascinating real-world stories.
Creativity Meets Behavioral Science
Passing the BCBA exam is a significant challenge, often likened to climbing a mountain without a clear path. For Liat, the founder of Study Notes ABA, this journey was especially personal. Her own struggles motivated her to create resources to help others succeed in their exam preparations, all while making the process enjoyable.
Real Talk About Conferences and Community
Passing the BCBA exam is a significant challenge, often likened to climbing a mountain without a clear path. For Liat, the founder of Study Notes ABA, this journey was especially personal. Her own struggles motivated her to create resources to help others succeed in their exam preparations, all while making the process enjoyable.
The Podcast: Behavior Meets the Unexpected
Liat’s podcast, which has nearly 5 million downloads and around 25,000 listeners per episode, features an eclectic mix of guests. From an ex-pimp who sheds light on behavioral economics in an unexpected way, to a forensic BCBA, to a legal brothel operator, the podcast dives deep into stories that make listeners think about behavior in fresh and surprising contexts. Liat approaches every conversation with curiosity and the goal of making behavioral science accessible without sacrificing authenticity.
Overcoming Criticism with Confidence
Despite the intense energy of ABA conferences, Liat is refreshingly open about the physical toll they take on her. She shares her personal health struggles and discusses how she manages to balance attending events like APBA, TxABA, and CTABA with her well-being. Nevertheless, the joy of meeting listeners in person—people who tell her, “You changed my life”—makes every moment worthwhile. Liat emphasizes the importance of community, the sharing of stories, and building genuine friendships along the way.
Advice for Burnt-Out Students and Professionals
Liat’s biggest message for those struggling — especially parents balancing study and life — is to give yourself grace. She urges students to focus on their timelines, not company deadlines or external pressures, and to find ways to make studying enjoyable and personalized. Whether that’s sipping a favorite drink, creating colorful notes, or simply permitting yourself to rest, Liat’s advice is a reminder that success is a journey, not a race.
What’s Next for Study Notes ABA?
The future is bright, with ongoing projects, additional CEUs, and a continued focus on supporting Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), who are the backbone of the field. Liat is also deepening partnerships with universities and constantly improving the platform to meet evolving needs, always driven by community feedback and real-world challenges.
Family at the Heart of It All
Liat’s son, Kobe, is her most significant source of motivation and support. He is involved in her work every day, from internships at the office to bringing joyful energy behind the scenes. “Before having Kobe, I thought I knew what love was,” she reflects. “The love you have for your child is incredible.” It is this love, along with her desire to make a difference for families like hers, that keeps her focused and inspired.
Connect with Study Notes ABA
Want to dive into Study Notes ABA? Find everything you need at studynotesaba.com, including the app, CEUs, and their vibrant podcast at behaviorbitches.com. You can also follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube @studynotesaba for colorful content, study tips, and community support.At Hi Rasmus, our motto is “focus on the child in front of you.” Liat’s story reminds us that with passion, creativity, and community, we can all find ways to focus on what matters most — empowering children and families through ABA and beyond.
