Keira Moore on Radical Behaviorism and the Science of Training [Episode 252]
In this first installment of a two-part conversation, we welcome Dr. Keira Moore—behavior analyst, dog trainer, and dedicated advocate for compassionate, ethical training. With over two decades of experience in behavior analysis and a PhD from Western New England University, Keira bridges the worlds of human and animal behavior science, applying her expertise to both dog training and consulting on anxiety and sleep-related challenges.
Keira takes us on a fascinating journey through her career, from her early love of animals and behavioral psychology studies to working with children on the autism spectrum and ultimately finding her passion in dog training. Along the way, she shares how her introduction to clicker training (involving an unexpected feline trainee!) shaped her approach to behavior modification. We also explore the core principles of radical behaviorism and how they apply across species—from humans to dogs and beyond.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode:
🐾 Keira’s unique career path from human behavior analysis to professional dog training.
🐾 How radical behaviorism shapes our understanding of learning across species.
🐾 The power of reinforcement in behavior modification—whether working with children, dogs, or even cats!
🐾 Insights into Keira’s work addressing anxiety, reactivity, and severe behavior challenges.
🐾 The science behind behavior change and how trainers can apply these principles effectively.
Why This Episode is a Must-Listen:
Keira’s extensive expertise, combined with her engaging storytelling, makes this episode a must-hear for trainers, behaviorists, and anyone fascinated by the science of learning. Whether you’re new to applied behavior analysis or a seasoned trainer looking to deepen your knowledge, this episode will challenge and inspire you.
Join the Conversation:
Subscribe, share, and connect with us to explore evidence-based, ethical approaches to training. And stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive even deeper into the application of behavior analysis in animal training!
Links:
Applying Behavioral Science to Everyday Training with Dr. Keira Moore [Episode 253]
Podcast Synopsis
In this insightful episode of the Animal Training Academy Podcast, Dr. Keira Moore returns for part two of our thought-provoking discussion on behavior analysis, radical behaviorism, and the intersection of science and practice in both human and animal training. With her extensive background as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D) and KPA-CTP certified dog trainer, Keira shares her expertise on how we can stay conceptually systematic, follow the science, and ask the right questions to refine our training approaches.
Throughout this episode, we dive into five key strategies for grounding training in behavioral science, including:
✅ Understanding radical behaviorism and why it’s a game-changer for ethical training
✅ The importance of following the science and identifying credible sources of knowledge
✅ Why being conceptually systematic can help trainers avoid unnecessary fluff in their methods
✅ Asking critical questions to distinguish evidence-based practices from trendy but unproven techniques
✅ The power of community and lifelong learning to enhance training effectiveness
Keira’s approach is both practical and thought-provoking, offering valuable takeaways for dog trainers, behavior consultants, and animal caregivers alike. Whether you’re new to behavior analysis or a seasoned professional, this conversation will challenge the way you think about training and empower you to make more informed, science-based decisions.
🔗 Want to connect with Keira? Check out the following links: